EASTWOOD CELEBRATES 50 YEARS

By Hillary Floren

Published April 4, 2025

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- The road to recovery from drug addiction is challenging, and not always easy to navigate. Doug and Terri Rutter know that all too well. Their 30-year old son Rylie died last year from an accidental fentany poisoning, after years of trying to get sober.

The Rutters created the Rylie V Rutter Foundation. It's goal is to provide treatment scholarships, sober living, job training and other services to help those striving for recovery.

"Younger men and women will get frustrated and they’ll give up so if you can try to address some of those frustrations ahead of time you’ll have a great success rate also," says Doug Rutter. "If somebody can stay sober for 90 days, the likelihood of them staying sober is increased dramatically."

The foundation will work hand in hand with Recovery Alliance, an addiction treatment center in El Paso, helping those who may not have the financial means to fight their battle.

"Everything is very expensive.  On our website, $30 can buy private therapy, for example," says Terri Rutter.

"We have listed in there what it costs to help someone with a month of treatment.  Maybe they have a job but they can’t get there - bus passes, job uniform, just to take away whatever barrier they have that they feel like they can’t do it because they’re so frustrated."

And they have a warning for others - don't buy drugs on the street."The community needs to be educated that you go out and buy Xanax say on the street, it’s laced with fentanyl... and just a speck can kill you," Doug Rutter warns.

The Rutters want Rylie to be remembered for his smile. His legacy will live on through the lives that the Rylie V Rutter Foundation touches.

If you'd like to make a donation to the foundation, click here: http://rylievrutterfoundation.org

For help with addiction, click here: http://recoveryalliance.net

MANASQUAN, N.J. - Mar. 31, 2025 – Jersey Mike’s Subs, known for its fresh sliced, fresh grilled subs, and the National Football League announced a multiyear partnership naming Jersey Mike’s as the Official Sub Sandwich Sponsor of the NFL.

The new agreement provides Jersey Mike’s with exclusive marketing rights and designations that will connect the sub sandwich company with the NFL and football fans in North America. These include the opportunity to:

• Celebrate the next generation of NFL stars by taking center stage at NFL Draft Experience presented by Jersey Mike's, the ultimate fan football festival, during the 2025 NFL Draft in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
•  Engage with fans through a custom experiential activation as presenting sponsor of Super Bowl Experience.
• Celebrate the best high school football coaches across the country as presenting sponsor of the Don Shula High School Coach of the Year Award.
• Help give boys and girls of all abilities a chance to develop their fundamental football skills in a positive, inclusive environment as a sponsor of NFL Flag.
• Encourage fan participation and engagement as a sponsor of the Pro Bowl Games Fan Vote presented by Jersey Mike’s.

“Jersey Mike’s authentic sub sandwiches have long been a go-to choice for football fans on gameday whether at home or a tailgating event,” said Chief Marketing Officer Jersey Mike’s Franchise Systems, LLC Rich Hope. “Jersey Mike’s and our local owners across the country are excited to elevate our football game by partnering with the NFL, the number one sports property in the U.S., to engage with their passionate football fans throughout the year.”

“We are excited to welcome Jersey Mike’s as the Official Sub Sandwich Sponsor of the NFL," said Senior Vice President Sponsorship at the NFL Tracie Rodburg. “Jersey Mike’s shares the league's commitment of giving back to local communities, and to fans and customers alike. We’re thrilled to have Jersey Mike’s on board across the NFL’s key tentpoles and initiatives, including NFL Flag programming across the U.S., as we continue to drive growth of the sport from the grassroots to the elite levels.”

Van Wagner represented Jersey Mike’s in the negotiations.

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About Jersey Mike’s Subs

Jersey Mike’s Subs, with more than 4,000 locations open and in development, serves authentic fresh sliced/fresh grilled subs on in-store freshly baked bread — the same recipe it started with in 1956. Passion for giving in Jersey Mike’s local communities is reflected in its mission statement “Giving…making a difference in someone’s life.” For more information, please visit jerseymikes.com or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and X.

March 4, 2025

By Isabella Martinez

EL PASO, TX (KVIA) — Tax season is underway, and local experts say there are key changes El Paso filers need to know before submitting their returns this year.

ABC-7 spoke to Douglas Rutter, the CEO of The Rutter Organization, Inc. who explained that one of the biggest changes for 2024 (tax returns filed this year) is an increase in the standard deduction. This is a popular way for taxpayers to reduce their taxable income.

For 2024, the standard deduction is:  

• $29,200 for married couples filing jointly (increase of $1,500)
• $21,900 for head of household filers (increase of $1,100)
• $14,600 for single filers (increase of $750)

Most taxpayers take the standard deduction because it simplifies filing and often provides a bigger tax break. However, some tax payers choose to itemize their deductions instead, meaning they list out expenses such as mortgage interest, medical bills and charitable donations, if those add up to more than the standard deduction.  

“Most of the time, you're not even going to be close to not taking the standard deduction,” said Rutter. “Because you're not going to have the expenses to itemize.” 

Rutter says one of the most common errors filers make is forgetting to include Form 1095, which reports health insurance coverage. Remember, failing to submit the correct documents could result in the IRS delaying a refund or rejecting a return.  

Another common mistake is missing out on tax credits, such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), which is often seen in El Paso, according to Rutter. The EITC is designed to help low-income workers. This year, the maximum EITC for taxpayers with three or more children has increased to $7,830. 

To ensure a smooth filing process, Rutter encourage people to double-check their information and seek help if needed.
 

“Get help. I mean, there's all kinds of help out there—all the way from free help to people like myself that do it for a living,” emphasized Rutter. 

For those expecting a refund, the IRS estimates it will take four to six weeks to process after filing.  

Taxpayers have until April 15 to submit their returns, but experts recommend filing as early as possible to avoid last-minute stress and potential delays.  

For more information on tax filing or to check your refund status, visit IRS.gov.

On March 17, 2025, MTZ Restaurant Group received the Operational Excellence Award at the Jersey Mike’s National Conference in Gaithersburg, Florida—one of only 15 awarded nationwide. This honor recognizes our commitment to quality, efficiency, and exceptional customer service.

The award highlights our innovative operational practices, strong leadership, and dedication to elevating the customer experience across Las Vegas. It also reflects the positive culture we continue to build for our employees.

This recognition fuels our drive for continued improvement as we implement new strategies to strengthen our operations and sustain long‑term success. We’re proud of this achievement and grateful for the team that made it possible.

Congratulations to Lalo Martinez and the entire MTZ Restaurant Group team.

At the conference, CEO Lalo Martinez was photographed with Mike Manzo, Chief Operating Officer of Jersey Mike’s—underscoring the strong partnership between our organizations. This award sets a new benchmark for excellence as we move forward.

Tax Matters Inc., established in 1988, has built a reputation for excellence and community commitment over nearly four decades. The corporate video highlights the firm’s trusted role in guiding individuals and businesses through complex tax regulations while ensuring compliance and financial confidence.

The video introduces a team of highly skilled tax professionals dedicated to helping clients achieve their financial goals. Beyond traditional tax preparation, Tax Matters provides comprehensive financial consulting and strategic tax planning services, empowering clients to stay informed about regulatory changes and maximize savings.

Reflecting the company’s ongoing evolution, the video underscores Tax Matters’ dedication to excellence, adaptability, and service to the community. Whether for personal tax assistance or expert business guidance, Tax Matters Inc. stands ready to support clients on their financial journey.

The Rutter Organization is proud to unveil its corporate video, a powerful presentation of the company’s mission, values, and achievements. This production reinforces Rutter’s dedication to innovation, excellence, and leadership within the industry.

With dynamic visuals and engaging storytelling, the video highlights Rutter’s remarkable growth and ambitious vision for the future. It also showcases the collaborative culture of its employees and the advanced facilities that support their work.

Closing with a compelling call to action, the video invites prospective clients and talented professionals to connect with Rutter. More than a brand statement, it reflects Rutter’s commitment to transparency, effective communication, and continued success.

*"Get ready—Season 2 of The Rebound Podcast is here! Launching January 23, 2025, host Doug Rutter and producer Robert Izquierdo bring you powerful conversations at the intersection of sports, culture, and resilience.

This season, hear from elite athletes, NCAA and NBA champions, award-winning musicians, coaches, media voices, and authors as they share stories of passion, perseverance, and impact. Discover how sports shape identity, inspire communities, and drive social change.

Thanks to our sponsors, Jersey Mike’s Subs and Tax Matters Inc., for making this season possible. Don’t miss it—tune in to The Rebound Podcast for inspiring stories and unforgettable insights. Season 1 is streaming now on YouTube, and Season 2 begins January 23!

The "Tax Matters Can Help" video, released on December 21, 2024, serves as a valuable resource for individuals and businesses navigating the complexities of tax season. This engaging video highlights the expertise and services offered by Tax Matters, emphasizing how they can simplify the tax preparation process and maximize returns.

The video opens with a friendly introduction, showcasing the team’s professionalism and commitment to customer service. It outlines the various services provided, such as tax planning, preparation, and consultation, tailored to meet the unique needs of clients.

Real-life testimonials from satisfied clients illustrate the positive impact Tax Matters has had on their financial situations, reinforcing trust and reliability. The video also features helpful tips and common tax-related pitfalls to avoid, positioning Tax Matters as a knowledgeable partner in achieving financial success.

As it concludes, the video encourages viewers to reach out for assistance, emphasizing that Tax Matters is ready to help navigate tax challenges with confidence and ease. This engaging presentation not only informs but also reassures clients that they have a trusted ally in their tax journey.

Established in September 2024, the Rylie V. Rutter Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization created in loving memory of Rylie V. Rutter. The foundation is dedicated to honoring Rylie’s legacy by advancing initiatives in education, mental health awareness, and family support.

Through impactful programs and meaningful partnerships, the foundation works to expand educational opportunities, promote understanding of mental health, and provide essential resources to families in need. Each effort reflects Rylie’s values and spirit, ensuring his memory continues to inspire positive change within the community.

The Rylie V. Rutter Foundation invites individuals, organizations, and community members to join in its mission. Together, we can honor Rylie’s legacy and build a brighter future by supporting education, strengthening mental health awareness, and uplifting families.

The "Tax Matters Year-Round Service" video, released on April 15, 2024, showcases the organization's commitment to providing comprehensive tax services throughout the entire year. This informative video emphasizes the importance of proactive tax planning and continuous support, reassuring clients that Tax Matters is available beyond the traditional tax season.

The video opens with a welcoming introduction that highlights essential tax services, including tax preparation, planning, and consultation. By detailing these offerings, Tax Matters ensures that clients' diverse needs are met year-round, making it an invaluable resource for individuals and businesses alike.

Viewers will also find useful tips for maintaining financial health and understanding tax implications throughout the year. These insights empower clients to navigate their financial situations more effectively and prepare for future tax obligations.

In conclusion, the video encourages viewers to leverage Tax Matters’ expertise for all their tax needs. By reinforcing its commitment to helping clients tackle tax challenges with confidence and ease, Tax Matters positions itself as a trusted partner in tax planning and support, available at any time of the year.

Vintage Tax Matters reflects an era when tax preparation was defined by personal service and a hands-on approach. Clients often arrived with shoeboxes of receipts to small offices lined with paper files and calculators, where advisors engaged in detailed conversations to understand each individual’s financial situation and provide tailored guidance.

Customer service was the cornerstone of the experience. Tax professionals were respected for their expertise in navigating complex tax codes and for building trust through personal connections. Marketing relied on local events and word-of-mouth referrals, reinforcing the value of community relationships.

This snapshot of the past illustrates how tax preparation was more than a financial transaction—it was a collaborative partnership focused on helping clients achieve their goals. These practices laid the foundation for the modern, client-centered services that continue today.

By Hillary Floren 

April 19, 2022 9:55 AM

EL PASO, Texas -- It's a collection that will have sports and music fans drooling.  It includes BB King's autographed guitar, a signed Kobe Bryant Jersey, Don Haskins' boots, autographed shoes that Michael Jordan gifted Coach Haskins, and Sammy Davis Jr's hat.  There are photos with celebrities, baseball cards, and countless electric guitars, many of them signed by the famous musicians who played them.  These treasures and more call a local man's business office home.

Doug Rutter works by day managing Tax Matters and a real estate management company.  It's obvious how he spends much of the rest of his time.  He likes seeing the look on people's faces when they walk into his business, which is adorned from floor to ceiling - literally - with memorabilia.

"They are shocked and amazed," Rutter says.  When asked the value of his collection - he says he has no idea what it's worth.  Each item comes with a story, many with a  deeply personal connection.

"You'll see a lot of El Paso stuff in here," says Rutter.  He likes to recognize the good things and people that come from El Paso, pointing to Aaron Jones as a great representative of the 915.

Of course Rutter has a Jones jersey, as well as mementos from Greg Foster, Tim Hardaway, a piece of the hardwood floor and posters from the '66 championship game.  He has a signed basketball from Don Haskins' 500th win, and of course, numerous El Paso Diablos jerseys and bats. 

Rutter's penchant for collectibles started with an autograph his father brought home for him when he was 10 years "My dad worked at a shoe store, I was about 10 years old, and he brought me home an autograph of a guy named Charlie West...

Flash forward a few decades, to when Charlie West was inducted into the UTEP hall of fame.  Rutter still had that autograph, and West was touched. “Four weeks or so later I got a box in the mail with his Super Bowl 4 jersey, his helmet, and a picture of him from the game saying they're better in my care than his.  Pretty cool," Rutter added.

One of his favorite items is an electric guitar, signed by the Lakers.  He traded it to Penny Marshall for a baseball.  He traded another item for a horse.  And the list of stories goes on...just don't ask Rutter to play a song on one of the many guitars displayed on his wall.

"I don't play," Rutter admits.  "But neither did Leo Fender - who, Fender Guitars?" 

I asked him what he wants to get his hands on next, and Rutter said his needs and desires are slim.  He did share with us his next project - a podcast.  His first guest?  Tim Hardaway. 

By Hillary Floren 

April 19, 2022 9:55 AM

The promo trailer for The Collective serves as a living artifact, capturing the vision and energy that gave rise to this innovative hub. Narrated by Doug Rutter, the film documents the foundational idea that grew into a dynamic space for creativity and collaboration, offering audiences a glimpse into the passion and determination that shaped its beginnings.

Original footage from April 19, 2022, provided by KVIA, anchors the narrative in authenticity. Scenes of early brainstorming sessions, community gatherings, and the transformation of the physical space are preserved like exhibits, each frame telling a story of growth, resilience, and shared purpose.

Viewed through a museum lens, the trailer is more than promotional media—it is a cultural record. It invites reflection on how communities unite around vision and innovation, while inspiring future collaborators, investors, and participants to join in the journey.

In this way, The Collective trailer stands as both documentation and invitation: a curated piece of history that celebrates the origins of a community-driven movement and points toward the possibilities of what lies ahead.

The Rebound Podcast launched on June 4, 2022, hosted by Doug Rutter, featuring engaging conversations with athletes, musicians, and influencers. The inaugural guest is MLB fire thrower Rocky Coppinger, setting the stage for dynamic discussions on various topics.

Each episode captivates listeners with personal anecdotes and expert insights. Elite athletes share their journeys, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the dedication required for success, while award-winning musicians discuss their creative processes.

Listeners also hear from NCAA and NBA champions about mental toughness, coaches sharing team-building strategies, and media figures providing insights into sports journalism. The podcast explores how sports intersect with culture and highlights the role of philanthropy in community engagement.

With a diverse range of voices, The Rebound Podcast entertains and inspires, offering valuable lessons for all audiences. Subscribe now to join us for the next episode and discover compelling stories of passion and resilience!

On April 12, 2023, Tax Matters launched a powerful commercial highlighting year-round tax relief solutions for individuals facing financial challenges. The advertisement showcases various options and emphasizes the importance of professional guidance in navigating complex tax situations.

With engaging visuals, the commercial outlines Tax Matters' comprehensive services, including tax negotiation and filing assistance, positioning the company as a key resource for alleviating tax burdens.

The core message focuses on Tax Matters' commitment to helping clients understand their tax relief options throughout the year. Expert assistance empowers clients to regain control over their finances and make informed decisions.

The commercial features a strong call to action, encouraging viewers to seek personalized consultations, reinforcing that expert help is readily available. By promoting accessibility to professional tax services, Tax Matters aims to build trust and confidence among potential clients.

Overall, the commercial establishes Tax Matters as a reliable partner in achieving financial peace of mind, ready to assist with expertise and compassion at any time, whether dealing with tax debt or seeking filing advice.

The KVIA profile on Doug Rutter and The Rutter Organization highlights the profound impact of local leadership during times of crisis. Aired on March 26, 2020, the coverage showcased how the organization rapidly mobilized to address urgent community needs amid the pandemic.

By focusing on the immediate challenges faced by families, the feature underscored the realities of the moment while spotlighting proactive initiatives such as food distribution and financial assistance. These efforts reflected a deep commitment to community welfare and demonstrated the organization’s ability to adapt quickly and effectively.

Collaboration played a central role in the response. Partnering with local agencies and volunteers, The Rutter Organization illustrated the strength of unity and collective action, reinforcing the importance of communities working together to support one another.

Beyond documenting these initiatives, the coverage served as an inspiration—encouraging others to engage, contribute, and extend compassion during difficult times. Doug Rutter’s leadership exemplified how one individual’s dedication can spark broader movements of resilience and hope, leaving a lasting impact on countless lives.

The Walmart tragedy in El Paso, Texas, on August 3, 2019, was a devastating mass shooting that claimed the lives of 23 individuals and injured many others. This horrific event deeply impacted the local community and resonated across the nation. Bryan Rutter’s project, inspired by this tragedy, reflects the profound emotional scars it left behind.

In his discussion, Bryan highlighted how the events of that day served as a catalyst for his initiative. The loss and trauma experienced by the El Paso community motivated him to create something meaningful that would honor the memories of those affected and foster healing and resilience. He recognized the importance of bringing people together in the wake of such violence, emphasizing the need for connection and understanding among those grappling with grief.

Bryan's vision aims not only to pay tribute to the victims but also to inspire open conversations about the impact of violence, the strength of community, and the power of collective healing. By focusing on resilience, healing, and support, he hopes his project will create a lasting impact that resonates within the community, reminding everyone of the importance of unity and compassion in times of hardship, especially following tragedies like the one in El Paso.