The Cuenca Dispatch - Issue 17

Volume 1 1 ISSUE 1715 Volume • ISSUE

October 5, 19,2016 2016 www.cuencadispatch.com October • www.cuencadispatch.com

Paying it Forward with Bacon The Story of “Big Red Is Dead”

WHAT’S WHAT’S INSIDE? INSIDE?

By Frances A. Hogg

WORLD NEWS WORLD NEWS

- Page 4 4 - Page

The Smokehouse

CANADIAN NEWS CANADIAN NEWS - Page 6

- Page 6

Franny with Big Red and carpenters, Jeremiah and Damian

I I

After many hours on buses and an beenbuying fourpork months to the day since Sandytathad the market the 7.8 earthquake that destroyed so expensive taxi ride the six kilometers a combination of Proyecto, great products, hard f there one thing onAlong the with planet many islives in Ecuador. my is from Canoa to the we reached

that is actually better than bacon is work never settling but business partners Kristen Sawyerit and the and settlement in time for foranything lunch. Over artisanal bacon. Sandy and David Kraft best. But there is something more Zach Cashero, I was on my way to Manabí the rice, lentils and soup, we interviewed are two unassuming retired Expatriates underneath all this that really makes the province to visit our other partners, Sara volunteers and staff. We also talked with living in Cuenca, Ecuador high in the Krafts and Carolina Smokehouse different Coppler and Geoff Odell.

Both Sara and residents.

We heard andhearts again that Andes Mountains. If you are from the – heart! Sandy and again David’s are Geoff are experienced and bigger the most pressing need was for a way to South, you’ll understand disaster-relief this – they are than the entire state of North “country” and they make no bones about Carolina and that isand really what this all international development specialists. transport people supplies fromisthe it. For this reasoninand the lack anything Only months advance ofof our planned about. city to the settlement. resembling real bacon in Ecuador, Sandy is a verse in the Bible that says launch of La Revista Zero, our partners There The only vehicles available were an and David decided to make their own and something like “Give a man a fish and he eats left Cuenca to help at the coast. We stood old truck called Big Red and a small car, Carolina Smokehouse was born. for a day. Teach him to fish and he will eat behind their decision. knewand that for both owned by volunteers.

The vehicles Fast forward a coupleWe of all years a lifetime”.

The Krafts have developed the earthquake had changed everything. over-used and suff ering near daily Carolina Smokehouse Bacon is, by far, a were very unique concept that, if adopted by the absolute best artisanal bacon on the successful entrepreneurs, could While we managed fund-raising other breakdowns.

Sara Coppler planned planet.

I know that is a bold statement, change the world.

They are paying it events in Cuenca, Sara and Geoff worked a brain-storming session for the next but when you do things as meticulously forward by passing Carolina Smokehouse to establish Proyecto Samán, in Canoa, evening. as the Krafts do, there really isn’t any to a local Ecuadorian so that he can better providingof temporary help to his and Afterhis a shared and music, ideas expectation anythinghousing but the and absolute family’smeal life. While Ecuador is rebuild the lives of the residents.

Kristen, started fl owing.

What is the best way to best. Not only do they make the best a developing nation, the average monthly Zachbut and Ithey had planned to use our visit explain theiscurrent situation, need and bacon, have expanded theirto wage here less than $400the per month. repertoire to settlement include sausage, is very diffi cult to of rise of poverty inspect the and reportpulled back to It possible resolution theout transportation pork, ribs and various other of porkthe make world,a but heresomeone there is project supporters abouttypes the impact their anywhere problem?in “Let’s movie!” related products. Everything produced is very limited opportunity. Sandy and David donations had made, as well as to explain said. We needed something clever. produced naturally and with love. They want to literally pay it forward with bacon. continued financial support Something funny.and Something people usewhy onlytheir locally sourced ingredients down is Enter Felix Salinas family. Felix is a wouldatwant to sharelocal on their social media necessary. to their carneceria (butcher) who is their waiter a popular restaurant and best friend (they know her pigs). his wife, Esperanza, takes care of the The success of Carolina Smokehouse house and family. Together they have two

sites. I wrote a couple of ascripts.

Felix taking break fromThe slicingone bacon everyone liked the best involved the boys, Jonathon andof Justin their death and funeral Big and Red,also andinthe extended family have a daughter, son-inefforts of a little boy to fix the problem law and a newborn. using magic.

The man they have decided to pass US NEWS Volunteer Kathy McCullough (an artist their business to couldn’t be more US NEWS - Page 7 and writer from Cuenca) and I made deserving. Felix is well known here in - Page 7 props foundhe objects: a miniature Cuencafrom because waits tables at one cardboard Big Red; lengths of garland of the more popular restaurants and spendsfrom the majority his time working made roadside of weeds; a funeral to provide for his family.

This means wreath fashioned from vines; mourning working jobs, taking odd jobs veils cut several from mosquito netting.

Other whenever available and still finding time volunteers made a costume for the young to learn the bacon business as Sandy’s star of the film, Yeferson Gómez, and apprentice. They spend countless hours HEALTH & gave acting lessons the residents of WELLNESS working together in to every spare minute the settlement.

Kristen and Zach decided of Felix’s hectic schedule. He is totally TRAVEL - Page 10 committedand to learning about locations planned everything camera angles - Page 10 making bacon and all the other products with Geoff , the photographer.

Carolina produces he is FilmingSmokehouse started after lunch. and, There sacrificing to gain that knowledge. This is were a few hiccoughs. The magician’s not just Felix though – it truly is a family hat proved too large and kept engulfing affair. young Yeferon’s Little boys In the Unitedhead.

States once a living year at it is the Proyecto fell into love withday". a tiny bicycle "Take your kids work Here at Carolina it is every day. No prop and Smokehouse kept running off with it. A smoke STRANGE NEWS one too young to learn – andthe enjoy the eff ectis proved difficult because wind HEALTH & - Page 11 learning process. Having a profion table continued pageand 3 WELLNESS sustainable business will allow Felix to - Page 14 continued on page 3

The Vegetable Bar is excited to see the response we’ve had to our expanded breakfast menu and our The and Cuenca lunch dinnerDispatch specials asWELCOMES well.

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| ISSUE 17 | THE CUENCA DISPATCH | www.cuencadispatch.com

By Michael Stephens

Cuenca Home Inspections

is dedicated in providing a thorough, non- bias home inspection that educates and assists our clients whether you’re buying or renting.

The ‘Standards of Practice’ of renting or buying properties here in Ecuador are different from what you may be used to in the US, Canada or the UK. Those of you who have rented or purchased a property outside of your home country know of the many surprises that come along with living internationally.

The Renter’s Inspections

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A free Security Evaluation is included in every home inspection

"T

he sweetness of innocence." That's what I said to Codie when she showed me this photo she took of our friend’s little girl. Look at her.

And her dog.

These two live on our friend’s "finca" (look it up). Her mother, our friend Gloria, is a single mother of three. She has a good job, in that it is stable. And what our friend Fausto pays her is enough for her to live well enough to provide for her children.

You can see it in her little girl's face. Ameliana is almost three years old and she is a typical little Ecuadorian girl in the country. She doesn't know anything about the world outside of the finca. She has not been troubled by all the things that trouble us.

And she is very happy. She is happy in just being next to her mother, digging in the dirt when Mom is planting and playing with the dog.

Lucas, her dog, is a recent addition to the finca. He was owned by an American ex-pat who returned to the US. Lucas was passed off to a local Ecuadorian near Fausto's finca, with no instructions on what to do with him.

And then one day Fausto saw him and asked who he belonged to. "You if you want to buy him," the local told him.

Thirty dollars and a handshake later Lucas was on his way to meeting his new best friend Ameliana. And now an old dog will be able to teach new tricks to an innocent little girl in the campo. And he is such a sweet dog! Ameliana crawls on top of him, pulls his hair, rubs dirt on his back and he just sits or lies there and gives her his equivalent of a smile. It really is a beautiful scene to behold.

Does that stoke any memories for you? Are you thinking back to when life was so sweet and innocent for you? I'll admit it made me think back about the carefree years of my early childhood.

And it also made me think, "Why can't our lives be like that anymore? " All I came up with is that there really isn't any reason it can't be, is there?

Seriously, why can't we have some of that inner peace and joy she has?

I'm not suggesting that we can ever recapture that time in our lives that had the pure contentment Ameliana has. Because that is something only youth brings. And because that would be a simplistic view of things. But why can't we have some of it?

Granted, she has a whole life before her that will make her world so much bigger. And unfortunately it will wipe away some of the sweet innocence. But she will still hold on to that sweet innocence for a few more years at least.

And for us? Well, we have a future that may be short and hard. It will most definitely have sadness and pain, loss and regret. No "innocence" in that. But what exactly takes the "sweetness" out of it, even if we understand how the innocence goes away?

I say it is simply our choice. Because we now live in a country that is offering us the chance to feel the sweetness of life again. Here in Ecuador we can step back from the pressure of our old lives. We can live well, even if we only have meager savings or income. We can survive easily and not worry about tomorrow.

That's what Gloria does. And that's what Ameliana's sweet innocence provides her. She doesn't think about tomorrow's problems. She thinks about what to do with Lucas. He thinks about what she's going to do next.

As for me, I'm going to keep thinking on this, because there is more there.

I can't quite get my hands around it yet, but I think if I keep trying something wonderful will happen.

What are you going to do?

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www.cuencadispatch.com | THE CUENCA DISPATCH | ISSUE 17 |

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continued from page1 become an owner instead of a worker as well as providing a legacy for his sons and their families. Felix has committed every possible moment to learning every facet of Carolina Smokehouse as he prepares to make that leap from working for a boss to being the owner and jefe (boss) himself. Esperanza, his wife, comes daily to learn the ins and outs of all the products.

One big step is understanding and knowing the market trends in order to purchase the necessary raw materials to ensure a steady supply of product.

From meeting with their butcher and choosing the best pork to shopping for spices in quantity it is a continuing journey forward. Working with restaurants and retail customers, Felix, Esperanza and the whole family have embraced this new opportunity and are determined to make it their Carolina Smokehouse managed and run by their family.

Carolina Smokehouse has been wildly successful. For Sandy and David, in the beginning, it was more about having something fun to do while they lived out their retirement days in Ecuador. Because of the demand for their bacon and other products, they came to a crossroads that required them to make a decision – continue on as is, or find a way to make the business bigger and more successful. They opted for the latter, but added the pay-it-forward element, so that they could continue to enjoy their golden years while making the world a better place one family at a time, because making great bacon isn’t sufficient unless it can offer a higher purpose.

With the money raised, Sandy, David, and Felix are going to invest in the equipment and other things needed to take the business to the next level and insure that Felix has all the tools as well as the knowledge to be successful when he completely takes over. This means a bigger smokehouse, a larger slicer, packaging equipment, a retail location, larger refrigeration units and all the other things that go into building a long-term sustainable business. In addition, there needs to be some funds for the transition so Felix can concentrate on completing the journey to ownership without having to work three other jobs. Sandy and David have invested a tremendous amount of money and time getting the business to this point. But, in order to take the business to the next level, they must have additional funding now. By donating to this project, you will not only get the gift (all from Carolina Smokehouse family as your donations are for Felix and paying it forward) that comes with your respective level of donation, you will be able to feel good about yourself knowing that you have helped provide the world with more and better bacon, pulled pork and ribs, but most importantly you have helped a family in a developing nation become entrepreneurs and raise their standard of living. Felix has big plans for Carolina Smokehouse. Help him realize his dream and pay it forward with bacon. Change the world one family at a time.

From the hearts of Sandy, David, Felix, Esperanza and family our thanks will stay in your hearts every day of your life -- you truly will be part of a movement to pay it forward. to Pay it Forward with Bacon (donate) go to www.gofundme.com/2nxq6ek.

Volume 1 • ISSUE 15

October 5, 2016 • www.cuencadispatch.com

ISSUE The Story of “Big Red Is Dead”

17

WHAT’S INSIDE?

By Frances A. Hogg

098 167 3885 | info@savorcom.com

WORLD NEWS - Page 4

Ulises Narvaez Guerrero CEO - ulises@savorec.com David A. Johnson Publisher - dave@savorec.com

CANADIAN NEWS - Page 6

Sherry B. Johnson many hours on buses and an sites. I wrote a couple of scripts. The one EditorAfter- sherry@asheboroandmore.com Franny with Big Red and carpenters, Jeremiah and Damian

I

t had been four months to the day since the 7.8 earthquake that destroyed so many lives in Ecuador. Along with my business partners Kristen Sawyer and Zach Cashero, I was on my way to Manabí province to visit our other partners, Sara Coppler and Geoff Odell. Both Sara and Geoff are experienced disaster-relief and international development specialists.

Only months in advance of our planned launch of La Revista Zero, our partners left Cuenca to help at the coast. We stood behind their decision. We all knew that the earthquake had changed everything.

While we managed fund-raising events in Cuenca, Sara and Geoff worked to establish Proyecto Samán, in Canoa, providing temporary housing and help to rebuild the lives of the residents. Kristen, Zach and I had planned to use our visit to inspect the settlement and report back to project supporters about the impact their donations had made, as well as to explain why their continued financial support is necessary.

expensive taxi ride the six kilometers from Canoa to the Proyecto, we reached the settlement in time for lunch. Over rice, lentils and soup, we interviewed volunteers and staff. We also talked with residents. We heard again and again that the most pressing need was for a way to transport people and supplies from the city to the settlement.

The only vehicles available were an old truck called Big Red and a small car, both owned by volunteers. The vehicles were over-used and suffering near daily breakdowns. Sara Coppler planned a brain-storming session for the next evening.

After a shared meal and music, ideas started flowing. What is the best way to explain the current situation, the need and possible resolution of the transportation problem? “Let’s make a movie!” someone said. We needed something clever.

Something funny. Something people would want to share on their social media

everyone liked the best involved the death and funeral of Big Red, and the efforts of a little boy to fix the problem using magic.

Volunteer Kathy McCullough (an artist and writer from Cuenca) and I made props from found objects: a miniature cardboard Big Red; lengths of garland made from roadside weeds; a funeral wreath fashioned from vines; mourning veils cut from mosquito netting. Other volunteers made a costume for the young star of the film, Yeferson Gómez, and gave acting lessons to the residents of the settlement. Kristen and Zach decided locations and planned camera angles with Geoff, the photographer.

Filming started after lunch. There were a few hiccoughs. The magician’s hat proved too large and kept engulfing young Yeferon’s head. Little boys living at the Proyecto fell in love with a tiny bicycle prop and kept running off with it. A smoke effect proved difficult because the wind continued on page 3

US NEWS FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT OUR ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT AT:

- Page 7

advertising@savorec.com 098.167.3885 Owner: Michael Soares

HEALTH & WELLNESS

- Page 10

The Cuenca Dispatch is published by Savor Communications. Any reproduction or duplication of any part thereof must be done with the written permission of the Publisher. All information included herein is correct to the best of our knowledge as of the publication date. Corrections should be forwarded to the Publisher at the address above.

STRANGE NEWS

- Page 11

Disclaimer: The paid advertisements contained within The Cuenca Dispatch are not endorsed or recommended by the Publisher. Therefore, neither party may be held liable for the business practices The Vegetable Bar is excited to see the response of these companies.

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| ISSUE 17 | THE CUENCA DISPATCH | www.cuencadispatch.com

World News

ENGLAND

CHINA

Brexit costs UK its spot among China launches manned mission top 5 investment destinations to experimental space station

B

ritain has lost its place as one of the top five investment destinations in the wake of the country's decision to leave the European Union, according to a survey released Monday.

In a half-yearly report of business executives, consulting firm EY said uncertainties related to the Brexit vote are discouraging potential investors, particularly from Europe, from planning deals in the country.

According to EY, Britain is now ranked seventh in terms of investment destination over the coming year, behind the United States, China, Germany, Canada, France and Japan. In the previous survey in April, Britain was second.

Steve Krouskos, EY's global head of transactions, said there was a "kneejerk" response, particularly in the immediate aftermath of the June 23 vote, but that he is optimistic that Britain's ranking will improve by the time of the next survey in six months.

"In the longer term, we would expect the U.K. to bounce back as a top M&A destination of choice but the short-term uncertainty is giving investors pause for thought," he said. "I don't see a blackout coming."

His confidence can to an extent be illustrated by the fact that deal-making has not so far dried up since the Brexit vote — Britain has seen $88 billion worth of deals excluding real estate, EY said, citing data from sector specialist Dealogic. That's in line with 2013 and 2014 but below the $255 billion registered in the same period of 2015, which was inflated by the mega-merger of beer companies SAB Miller and Anheuser Busch InBev. British firms, according to EY, continue to be attractive to foreign buyers, especially high intellectual property companies in industrials, technology and healthcare. And Britain remains the third most sought-after country for investment among executives surveyed in the U.S. — that's important as the U.S. typically accounts for around 40 percent of global M&A activity.

The biggest deal since the Brexit vote was the 24 billion pound takeover ($31 billion at the time) of British technology firm ARM Holdings by Japan's SoftBank Group in July — a month or so after the Brexit vote. Another major deal was the near $8 billion takeover of Formula One's commercial arm by American company Liberty Media.

VIETNAM

Floods kill 24 in Vietnam as Typhoon Sarika looms

D

isaster officials say floods triggered by heavy rains have killed 24 people and left four others missing in central Vietnam as Typhoon Sarika approaches after leaving at least two people dead and displacing more than 150,000 in the Philippines.

In the worst-hit province of Quang Binh, 18 people died and authorities are searching for three missing, disaster official Tran Le Dang Hung said.

Six people died and one was reported missing in three other central provinces.

Heavy rains of up to 90 centimeters (3 feet) on Friday and Saturday submerged 125,000 homes in the region, temporarily disrupted the North-South Highway and damaged infrastructure, crops and fish farms.

Hung said the floods have receded in most areas in Quang Binh.

C

hina launched a pair of astronauts into space Monday on a mission to dock with an experimental space station and remain aboard for 30 days in preparation for the start of operations by a full-bore facility six years from now.

The Shenzhou 11 mission took off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center on the edge of the Gobi Desert in northern China at 7:30 a.m. (2330 GMT) aboard a Long March-2F carrier rocket.

It will dock with the Tiangong 2 space station precursor facility within two days, conduct experiments in medicine and various space-related technologies, and test systems and processes in preparation for the launching of the station's core module in 2018.

Space program commander-in-chief Gen. Zhang Youxia declared the launch a success at 7:46 a.m. (2346 GMT). Defense Minister Fan Changlong then read a congratulatory message from President Xi Jinping calling for China's astronauts to explore space "more deeply and more broadly."

Premier Li Keqiang and propaganda chief Liu Yunshan visited the Beijing control center to congratulate staff. It is the sixth time China has launched astronauts into space and the duration will be the longest by far.

Following the attachment of two experiment modules, the completed station is set to begin full operations in 2022 and will run for at least a decade.

An earlier Tiangong 1 experimental space station launched in 2011 went out of service in March after docking with three visiting spacecraft and extending its mission for two years. The Tiangong, or "Heavenly Palace," stations are considered stepping stones to a mission to Mars by the end of the decade.

The Shenzhou 11 astronauts are Jing Haipeng, who is flying his third mission, and 37-year-old Chen Dong.

"It is any astronaut's dream and pursuit to be able to perform many space missions," Jing, who turns 50 during his time in space, told a briefing Sunday.

China conducted its first crewed space mission in 2003, becoming only the third country after Russia and the U.S. to do so, and has since staged a spacewalk and landed its Yutu rover on the moon. Administrators suggest a crewed landing on the moon may also be in the program's future.

ZERO MAGAZINE- www.zeromagecuador.com

www.cuencadispatch.com | THE CUENCA DISPATCH | ISSUE 17 |

5

organic Life, Happy skin: the story of MoMa soaps

By Kristen Sawyer, Publisher - La Revista Zero Magazine

I

t all started with her hands. Five years ago, Gabriela Martinez realized that the skin on her fingers and the back of her hands was reacting to commercial soap. She wasn’t sure what ingredient specifically was causing the allergy, but she knew that she had to change something. Many of us with sensitive skin understand this feeling. Our skin shifts between too oily and too dry; it breaks out in pimples or a red rash from using chemically infused soaps or shampoos.

Instead of resigning and dealing with this fate, however, Gabriela investigated. She found out that many commercial soaps use parabens, phthalates, petrochemicals, synthetic perfumes, and artificial coloring. As she read about the negative side effects of each of these substances, let alone the combined effect, she realized that she couldn’t use commercial soaps anymore. So, she found another way.

She took a course in natural soap making, and slowly turned her kitchen into her laboratory. Her soaps started simple: clay, goat’s milk, rice. When researching flavors, Gabriela was surprised to find the most bizarre brands in Europe and the U.S. Vendors were selling bars of bacon or stout beer soap for $30. While she did eventually experiment with beer-flavored soap, much to the delight of her male friends and family members, she found that the local flavors of Ecuador made the most effective blends for clearing away blemishes, smoothing out the roughness in skin, and exfoliating the build up of daily wear and tear.

Her curiosity peaked when she found out she was pregnant with her first son; she knew she wanted to be completely reliant on organic soaps and shampoos during her pregnancy. She started to research the properties of local ingredients to figure out what was best for minimizing strechmarks, for helping her blood circulate better, and for countering the hormonal warfare waged on her skin.

Chocolate in the soap stimulates the blood and helps eliminate cellulite. Rosemary is good not only for the skin but the hair. Rice powder, blended with the soap, works as an exfoliator. Goat’s milk smooths out wrinkles and purifies the blemishes. She widened her search to ingredients she had never before found in her research: hierba luisa from her mother’s garden, the cedrón from the market. Spices and

essential oils came next: turmeric, the volcanic clay benconita or arcilla, and giant gallons of coconut oil from Vilcabamba. Essential oils and essences were imported from Europe or the States. Even though pure oils and essences aren’t as commonly found in Ecuador, there is a trend toward the organic that is starting here. Gabriela has lived in Cuenca her whole life, and she commented on what she’s noticed. “The organic lifestyle is getting more popular here. More mothers and younger people want to use products that are good for them, for their children, rather than something that’s just convenient.”

It is true that buying organic soaps is not quite as convenient as purchasing the plastic containers of liquid goo from the supermarket. Organic soaps are also slightly more expensive, ranging from $3 to $5.

But the price reflects the quality of the product, and each bar of soap is a process. Organic soaps start with a combination of oils, then flavors and essences are added, followed by natural dyes made from vegetables and fruits. After she had experimented and made soaps for herself and friends for a few years, Gabriela decided it was time to actually make a brand. MoMa Soaps were born.

To separate her soaps from others, Gabriela abandoned the typical square or rectangular shape; instead, she began drizzling. Many of Gabriela’s soaps are waved along the upper edge, as if they’re made from egg white meringue rather than boiling hot glycerin. She also has bought a series of silicon molds not found in Ecuador but imported from the States to create soaps in different shapes: bee honeycomb, a tree of life, seashells, a bouquet of roses.

Gabriela first sold her soaps to the general public one-year ago, at the ferias in November. At that first fair, she recounts a young boy who came up to her table. He was Cuban, around six years old, and he saw her blackberry and frutilla soaps. The colors of this particular square are vibrant: the deepest of cherry reds with a Popsicle swirl inside. This little boy fell in love with the colors and smell. He bought five soaps, counting out his own money from his little wallet, and proudly gave her the bills. That first fair, she sold eucalyptus and rice soap to male customers, and goat’s milk, clay, cedrón, and orange-honey

soap to female customers. She packed up her table, went home, and decided that it was time to increase production.

Right around that time, as she was turning an old shed in her parent’s backyard into a workshop, Gabriela found out she was pregnant again. With her body starting to ache, she enlisted the help of her mother, Liliana, to mix the ingredients and handle the bubbling oils. Wearing gloves, masks and aprons, they started creating a whole array of new flavors: almond, cherry, coconut, to name a few. The workshop where they currently produce their soaps is a small, colorful room that smells like cherries and chocolate, their latest creation. A kitchen area hosts an industrial sized blender and about fifty different containers filled with herbs or oils, dusts or roots.

Above the sink are vials of color, waiting to be turned into rainbow ripples. When a batch of soap is made, it takes forty days to dry. Stacked on wooden shelves, dozens and dozens of soaps dry, each row with tiny, hand-written tags stating the date they can finally be sold and used by those who want to abandon the unnecessary usage of potentially harmful chemicals on their bodies.

Gabriela firmly believes that what you put in and on your body changes what is inside your body. What your wear on your skin sinks deeper than the flesh.

Our bodies were not made to consume toxins. Our bodies were made to move with ease, to purify our pores, to coexist harmoniously with our skin. It’s an odd sensation, rubbing a smooth bar of Vilcabamba bentonita clay over your cheeks, drying off the water, and noting how much smoother your skin actually feels. Your skin feels happy. Gabriela only uses her organic soaps, both on her skin and in her hair, and she continues to work on new ideas: lotions, creams, make up. Patiently, every forty days at a time, she’s shifting how she, her family members, her friends, and her new customers view commercialized soap. With each bar, she leaves behind a trail of happy, hydrated skin, loved by bodies that relish in the organic way. *The author wants to let you know that she is selling these soaps. She uses them and loves them, as they actually do work, but she thought it would be fair to let you know that she’s helping Gabriela and Liliana.

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| ISSUE 17 | THE CUENCA DISPATCH | www.cuencadispatch.com

Canadian News

Ontario

Ontario court to consider application to stop Cleveland from wearing ‘offensive’ baseball jerseys in Toronto

The crashes all took place on the Avalon Peninsula, within about 100 kilometres of St. John’s. Three occurred along the Trans-Canada Highway, with one each in the communities of Conception Harbour and Bellevue.

All the moose were killed at the scene.

Newfoundland is home to the highest concentration of moose in the world, with approximately 120,000 of the animals roaming the island. That’s roughly one moose for every four Newfoundlanders. And with each individual weighing up to 545 kilograms, the island’s moose population outweighs its human population.

NEW BRUNSWICK

Surveillance footage shows daring thieves switch $10,000 diamond with fake at New Brunswick jewelry store

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prominent indigenous activist and architect is seeking a court ruling that would prevent the Cleveland Indians from wearing their regular jerseys, using their team name and displaying their logo when they play against the Blue Jays in Toronto this week.

Douglas Cardinal, an officer of the Order of Canada, has filed applications to the Ontario Superior Court, the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario and the Canadian Human Rights Commission, arguing that the Cleveland Indians’ team name and mascot — Chief Wahoo, a cartoon man with red skin and a feather in his headband — are offensive and discriminatory.

His application seeks an injunction against the team, Major League Baseball and Rogers Communications, which is broadcasting the American League Championship Series between the two teams.

Rogers also owns the Blue Jays and the stadium they play in, the Rogers Centre.

A hearing will be held Monday on the application at the Superior Court.

It’s just the latest move in a push against the team’s name, as the United Church of Canada and the United Church of Christ have urged the team to change its name.

NEWFOUNDLAND

N.L. driver hits moose while looking at other driver who hit moose — and three other moose crashes

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ive Newfoundland drivers hit moose within the space of only 80 minutes Thursday morning — one of them while rubbernecking at another moose collision.

“It appears that one vehicle may have struck a moose while trying to see what was happening across the highway at another crash minutes earlier,” RCMP said in a press release sent to Newfoundland media.

There were no serious injuries, but the collisions appeared to have turned several vehicles into write-offs, with one truck pitched sideways into the ditch with its front end crumpled.

aring thieves stole a $10,000 diamond in a split-second switch with a fake, a New Brunswick jeweller says.

“These were pros,” said Wayne Smith, owner of W. Smith and Co. Fine Jewellers in Saint John.

Smith said the thieves — presenting themselves as a middle-aged couple — came into his store shortly before closing last Friday.

Although Smith wasn’t there, he said the whole thing was caught on remarkably clear video surveillance cameras.

They asked to look at a loose, one-carat diamond valued at $10,000, then began to argue, clearly trying distract the saleswoman, Smith said.

The man asked to see another diamond, a 1.5 carat stone worth $25,000, and made his move while she reached for a comparison chart.

“He was very quick. You can see him on the video drop the fake stone and grab the real stone and slide it in his back pocket. They tried to get the second stone and that’s when she caught them. And it was only after they left the store that she went back to the first stone, and realized they got us,” he said.

“And then we went onto the camera system, and it was very clear. Once you see it, you’ll go ‘Oh my God.”‘ Smith, a one-time vice-president of Birks jewellers for Atlantic Canada, said thefts are not uncommon at jewelry stores, but they’re usually kept quiet.

US News NEW HAMPSHIRE

www.cuencadispatch.com | THE CUENCA DISPATCH | ISSUE 17 |

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ALABAMA

3 law clerks of Alabama Pumpkins go ballistic at New Hampshire racetrack suspended chief justice fired

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he attorney of suspended Alabama Chief Justice Roy Moore says three of his client's law clerks have been fired.

Attorney Mat Staver tells Al.com in a statement Sunday that acting Chief Justice Lyn Stuart fired Moore's head law clerk and two other law clerks. Stuart sent a letter asking Moore to remove his items and return his keys by Oct. 18.

A judicial panel suspended Moore for the remainder of his term after finding he urged state probate judges to defy the federal courts on gay marriage.

Staver calls the firings and order to remove personal effects "outrageous."

Moore is appealing the suspension.

By the end of his term in 2019, he'll be beyond the age limit of 70 for judges.

CALIFORNIA

Golden Gate Bridge to hire more officers to prevent suicides

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ive new officers will be hired to patrol the Golden Gate Bridge specifically to search for people looking to jump to their death.

The bridge board last week approved adding the new bridge officers to the patrol, bringing the total to 22. They are expected to be working on the span in about two months, the Marin Independent Journal reported Sunday.

Between 2000 and 2005, bridge officers were able to stop an average of 52 people a year from jumping from the span. So far in 2016, there have been 138 successful interventions and the number is projected to exceed 200 by the end of the year.

The increase in successful interventions is directly related to having more officers patrolling the bridge's sidewalks, said Capt. Lisa Locati, the span's top law enforcement official.

Having the additional officer will allow Locati to deploy three or four officers on the span at one time, up from the current two, she said.

"The officers want to be on the sidewalk detail," she said. "They are the front line in these situations."

The move by the bridge board is the latest to address suicide at the Golden Gate Bridge.

In August, bridge officials announced a partnership with Crisis Text Line, which allows people in crisis to text GGB to 741741 and almost immediately have access to a counselor. Bridge security is also notified. Signs referring people to the service are now on the span.

In June 2014, the bridge board unanimously agreed to build a suicide barrier expected to be completed by 2020.

More than 1,400 people have jumped to their deaths since the bridge opened in 1937

IOWA

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umpkins were going ballistic at the New Hampshire Motor Speedway this weekend.

Teams from as far away as Virginia came to the race track to use trebuchets, catapults and air guns to launch the fall fruit, some of which made a gourd-geous arc across the New Hampshire sky.

While the pumpkins — some weighing in at 1,000 pounds or more — were the featured item, they were not only things which were being fired. Some smaller pumpkins flew up to two-thirds of a mile across the speedway.

Other acts of wanton destruction for general amusement included large, crane-like launchers to throw cars, motorcycles, a boat and pianos. Not all of the shots were successful. When a pumpkin misfired, participants referred to the result as a "pie."

Some of the teams clearly took seriously the task of getting their medieval or earlier weapons systems in place and ready to launch.

"A lot of work to travel and set up," said Dave Shepard, a member of the Mista Ballista team from Framingham, Massachusetts. "Takes six guys maybe 10-12 hours."

Some of the launchers demonstrated significant shade-tree ingenuity. One team's rig used garage door opener springs, while another put a half mile of surgical tubing into service.

Category winners got a trophy and a story to tell.

Mystery writer Edward Gorman dies at 74

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ystery and crime fiction writer Edward Gorman has died.

Gorman's publicist says he died Friday after a long battle with cancer. He was 74.

Gorman, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, was the author of dozens of mystery novels, including the Sam McCain, Jack Dwyer and Dev Conrad series. He set much of his fiction in small Midwestern towns. His novel The Poker Club was adapted into a 2008 film with the same title.

Gorman spent 23 years in advertising, public relations and politics before his first novel, Rough Cut, was published in 1984. He then dedicated himself full time to writing.

During his career, he received the Shamus Award, the Spur Award and the International Fiction Writers Award.

He was married to Carol Gorman, a children's fiction writer.

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US News

WASHINGTON, D.C.

MICHIGAN

National Portrait Gallery honors Study shows knowledge gap Nobel laureate Bob Dylan with in-car technology

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he Smithsonian's National Portrait Gallery is honoring Nobel laureate Bob Dylan.

The gallery announced Friday that it will install a portrait of the singersongwriter in the museum's first-floor "Celebrate" space on Monday. Dylan was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature on Thursday. The portrait is a photograph taken by John Cohen in 1962. It is one of two the gallery has of Dylan.

Seventy-five-year-old Dylan is the first musician in the 115-year history of the Nobel to win the prize in literature. The Swedish Academy cited him Thursday for "having created new poetic expressions within the great American song tradition."

NOrTH CArOLINA

North Carolina GOP office burned, graffiti sprayed nearby

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yundai and BMW customers are the most satisfied with their in-vehicle technology, but those brands and others still need to work on educating drivers about what their cars can do, according to a new survey by the market research company J.D. Power and Associates.

The inaugural study, released Monday, asked owners about their experiences after 90 days owning 2016 model-year vehicles. The vehicles had to be new or redesigned in the last three years.

BMW and Hyundai had two models each that were the highest performers in their segments: The BMW 2-Series and 4-Series small cars and the Hyundai Genesis midsize car and Tucson small SUV. The Chevrolet Camaro, Kia Forte and Nissan Maxima also scored well. J.D. Power didn't release the worst performers.

Customers were asked to rate their in-vehicle technology. They gave the highest satisfaction ratings to blind-spot warning systems and backup cameras. Navigation systems got the lowest scores, with many drivers saying they found it difficult to enter a destination using voice commands. Voicerecognition systems also got low ratings.

The survey also revealed many owners don't know all the things their cars can do. Forty-three percent didn't know if their car had Android Auto or MirrorLink, which allow owners to connect their smartphones and access apps from their dashboard screens. Thirty-six percent didn't know if their car had Apple CarPlay, a similar system that works with iPhones.

Customers also said they don't use certain features because they don't understand how they work. One-quarter of those who weren't using adaptive cruise control — which can maintain a set distance from a car in front — or automatic parking said it was because they didn't know how. Thirteen percent didn't even know how to adjust the lumbar support in their seats.

"It is alarming how many technologies consumers have in their vehicle but aren't using because they don't know they have them or don't know how to use them," said Kristin Kolodge, executive director of driver interaction at J.D. Power. "Both of these knowledge gaps have long-term implications for future demand."

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local Republican Party office in North Carolina was torched by a flammable device and someone spray-painted an anti-GOP slogan referring to "Nazi Republicans" on a nearby wall, authorities said Sunday.

A bottle filled with flammable liquid was thrown through the window of the Orange County Republican Party headquarters overnight, according to a news release from the town of Hillsborough. The substance ignited and damaged the interior before burning out. No one was injured.

On Sunday afternoon, the walls of the multi-room office were covered in black char, and a couch against one wall had been burned down to its springs.

Shattered glass covered the floor, and melted campaign yard signs showed warped lettering.

The news release from authorities said an adjacent building was spraypainted with the words: "Nazi Republicans leave town or else." The graffiti had been covered in paint by late afternoon.

Another business owner discovered the damage Sunday morning. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is working with local investigators.

State GOP executive director Dallas Woodhouse said people sometimes work after-hours, and he felt lucky that no one was there at the time. He said the bottle appeared to have landed on or near the couch where volunteers sometimes take naps.

"They are working around the clock. It is a miracle that nobody was killed," he said in an interview, calling the fire "political terrorism."

He said Republican offices around the state were re-examining their security.

The violent act in the key battleground state was condemned by public figures across the political spectrum.

Hillary Clinton, the Democratic nominee for president said on Twitter that the attack "is horrific and unacceptable. Very grateful that everyone is safe."

Republican nominee Donald Trump blamed the act on Democrats in a Tweet and also he encouraged local Republicans, saying: "With you all the way, will never forget. Now we have to win. Proud of you all!"

At a news conference, Woodhouse urged Republicans to respond peacefully by turning out to vote in November. He said he'd received messages of support from Democrats.

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The Vegetable Bar is offering opportunities for volunteers to work a day or two a week to earn credits towards free food and donations to Hearts of Gold or any other local charity of your choice!

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Contact The Vegetable Bar at thevegetablebar@yahoo.com for more information

Money Matters

www.cuencadispatch.com | THE CUENCA DISPATCH | ISSUE 17 |

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How to approach your Samsung Note 7 recall to holiday spending cost at least $5.3 billion

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amsung Electronics said Friday that the discontinuation of the Galaxy Note 7 would cost the company about $3 billion during the current and next quarters, bringing the total cost of the recall to at least $5.3 billion.

The Note 7 discontinuation will cost in the mid-2 trillion won (chinese currency) range during the October-December period and another 1 trillion won ($884 million) during the January-March quarter, the company said in a statement.

Samsung already slashed its third-quarter profit forecast by $2.6 billion earlier this week, an amount that could wipe out its entire mobile business profit. That did not include the cost of Samsung's first recall, which analysts estimated at 1 trillion won to 2 trillion won.

Samsung has enough cash and other businesses to absorb the shock from the phone recall. It said it expected to generate 5.2 trillion won ($4.6 billion) in operating income during the third quarter after the recall cost. Analysts said most of the income will be generated by sales of advanced displays and semiconductors.

Samsung added that it will make significant changes in its quality assurance processes to enhance product safety for consumers. It did not elaborate.

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he holiday season can be both exciting and expensive. The excitement stems from chances to see family and friends, while the expenses often stem from holiday shopping for those very same loved ones.

Many shoppers run into financial trouble come the holiday season, when the temptation to overspend on holiday gifts can be tough to resist. But the following are a handful of ways shoppers can stretch their budgets and avoid going broke this holiday season. · Agree to spending limits. Come the holiday season, many people overspend on gifts for their immediate family members. Before shopping season begins, speak with members of your immediate family to discuss spending limits on gifts, agreeing that you each won't spend more than an agreed upon amount of dollars on gifts for any one person. Come to a consensus on a reasonable limit and urge family members not to exceed that limit no matter what.

• Determine how much you can spend. Many people find themselves overextended financially come the holiday season because they never bother to sit down before the season begins to determine how much they can afford to spend. Set some time aside before your first holiday shopping excursion to examine your finances. Such an examination should give you a ballpark figure of how much you can spend. Keep a tally of all of your purchases with you whenever you go shopping, updating the list with each new purchase you make.

Tracking spending can help you stay within your budget.

• Go shopping with a plan. Visiting the mall or a town shopping center without any idea of what you're looking for is a recipe for overspending. Put some thought and research into your holiday shopping so you aren't spending time wandering around and buying on impulse, which can increase your chance of overspending. The more thought you put into your shopping, the more you can comparison shop and find the best price for each gift.

• Start early. If your holiday shopping list is long or if you know money will be tight come the holiday season, begin your holiday shopping early. Doing so allows you to stretch your spending out over several months as opposed to several weeks. Shopping early also gives you more time to comparison shop and find the best price.

• Resist the temptation to put it all on plastic. Credit and debit cards are more convenient than cash, especially now that you can buy everything from cups of coffee to big-ticket items with the swipe of a card. But cash can be your friend when holiday shopping, especially if you have a history of overspending during the holiday season. Leave cards at home when holiday shopping, spending only the cash you have in your pocket. While this may be a less convenient way to shop than you've grown accustomed to, it will save you the grief of large credit card bills come January.

Holiday shopping can easily get out of hand. But shoppers who commit to spending only what they can afford before their first shopping trip can make it through the season with their finances intact.

Applications for US unemployment aid remain at 43-year low

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he number of Americans seeking unemployment benefits stayed at a 43-year low last week in the latest sign that layoffs are scarce. tHE nuMBErs: Weekly applications for unemployment benefits were unchanged at a seasonally adjusted 246,000, the Labor Department said Thursday. The four-week average, a less volatile measure, fell 3,500 to 249,250.

Both figures were at their lowest levels since November 1973.

The number of people receiving aid fell 16,000 to just over 2 million. That is the fewest since June 2000. tHE tAKEAWAY: Applications are a proxy for layoffs, so the figures indicate that companies are cutting very few jobs. With the unemployment rate down to 5 percent, from 10 percent in October 2009, some businesses say they are having trouble finding qualified workers. That suggests they are less likely to lay anyone off.

KEY drIVErs: The four-decade low in unemployment claims suggests the job market remains resilient. That's a key reason the Federal Reserve is likely to raise the short-term interest rate it controls by the end of the year.

Hiring has been solid this year, even as economic growth has been slow.

The economy expanded at a pace of just 1.1 percent in the first half of the year, though most economists expect it to pick up a bit.

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Travel

Make the most with the best Tips for retirees traveling abroad traveling companion The Garmin GPS | GARMIN ECUADOR

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one are the times, while on a road trip, it was usual to see a car stopped on the side of the road with two heads pondering over an oversized map. As recently as twenty-five years ago, traveling unfamiliar roads was not an easy task and today taking a road trip here in Ecuador may seem equally daunting.

However, getting lost should no longer be a determining factor when venturing out to unexplored places.

Over time it is clear that the way we travel from one place to another has changed. There is no longer a need to be an expert map reader or navigator to reach a new destination; it is as simple as having a modern-day traveling copilot that is as reliable as it is easy to use. With the Garmin GPS in your car, you can enjoy your trip to the fullest and get to your final destination with little effort or risk of getting lost.

One of the best tips before buying a GPS is to review the complete package including the maps that come installed. In this regard the Garmin GPS includes complete maps of Ecuador (ECUADOR CITYNAV NT GARMIN) which will help you move freely around the country with no concern of getting lost. Additionally, if you are traveling out of the country, you can take the Garmin GPS with you because it works anywhere in the world, 24 hours a day and in all weather conditions – you do not have to rely on any cellular network or internet, you only need to have view of the sky for it to work effectively.

The Garmin GPS comes loaded with the country map with streets, addresses, routes, points of interest and the latest navigational information for daily use – technology that will certainly allow us to forget the paper maps we once used and relieve the stress of traveling to unfamiliar places or being late for an important appointment.

The Garmin GPS uses cutting-edge technology that utilizes information it receives from a network of satellites that orbit the earth and calculate the precise position of your location. It also calculates latitude, longitude and altitude while providing the information you would expect like distance, time to reach your destination, estimated time of arrival, and speed among other things.

Garmin’s attempt to make things easier for the driver does not stop here. The Garmin GPS comes loaded with a database to help drivers locate addresses and millions of POI (points of interest) such as businesses, shops, restaurants and other destinations. Simply select the preferred POI and the Garmin GPS will navigate the way there, quickly and easily. The Garmin GPS is loaded with features make it an extremely useful tool in everyday life such as turn by turn indications, voice directions, a color touch screen, travel recording, and bluetooth connection to mobile phones, mp3 players and digital televisions.

If you are ready to explore Ecuador and reach your destination safely and comfortably, you can find the Garmin GPS at these authorized outlets: • Explorer • Super Paco • Radioshack • Bazar Victoria • SKYTEC S.A: Urdesa 3rd Street # 415 and Dátiles.

Garmin is an enduring company by creating superior products for automotive, aviation, marine, outdoor, and sports that are an essential part of our customers’ lives.

For more information please visit the website www.garmin.ec or call 042 884 915.

en and women often dream of jet setting around the world when they retire. Traveling the globe without worrying about time lines or what's going on back at the office is something many retirees reward themselves with after a life of hard work.

As liberating as world travel can be, retirees still must exercise caution when traveling abroad. The following are a few safety tips for retirees who are ready to make their dream retirements a reality by setting off for parts unknown.   Stay in touch. Escapism is a big part of the attraction of travel for travelers young and old. But while you may want to avoid contact with the outside world on your travels, it's still necessary to stay in touch with your loved ones. Retirees who plan to take extended trips overseas should purchase an international mobile phone plan that allows them to use their phones regardless of what country they happen to be in. A quick text message to a son or daughter back home is all it takes to let your family know you are safe and having the time of your life. Work out a communication plan with your loved ones back home before departing, agreeing to contact them via phone call, e-mail or Skype at least once per week for the duration of your trip. This is a good way to share your experiences and help your relatives rest easy knowing that you are safe.  Don't store all of your important documents in one place. When traveling overseas, it can be convenient to keep important items like traveler's cheques, credit cards, passports, and identification in one place. However, storing all of your sensitive documents or financial items in one place is very risky, as a lost or stolen bag can leave you without identification or access to your funds. When traveling, couples should carry their own passports on their persons and split up credit cards and traveler's cheques. This way you still have access to your funds, and one of you still has identification should items be lost or stolen.   Do your homework. Unplanned day trips are common among travelers who have been traveling for long periods of time. While such jaunts can add an element of spontaneity to a trip, they also can be quite dangerous if travelers have not done their homework on a particular destination. You do not want to end up in a place where tourists are not welcome or frequent targets of criminals. In addition, you don't want to visit a city or town and know nothing of its customs or etiquette. For example, locals may react negatively to visitors who have ignored accepted local standards for attire. You can still make spontaneous trips, but make sure you gather some background information, be it from the Internet, locals where you are currently staying or the hotel concierge, on a given locale and its customs before visiting.   Make sure your health will not be compromised. Retirees cannot travel in the same manner they did in the carefree days of their youth. Before traveling abroad, visit your physician and get a full physical. Refill any medications you will need during your trip, and speak with your physician about how to handle any medical emergencies while overseas. Carry your physician's name and telephone number with you at all times, so local medical professionals can contact him or her should you experience a medical emergency.

Once you have arrived at your destination, it's important that you continue to prioritize your health. Make sure the water is safe to drink before taking a sip, and investigate local cuisine to ensure it won't inflame any existing medical conditions you may have. The quality of medical care varies greatly across the globe, so you must prioritize your health whenever leaving the country and avoid anything that might put your health in jeopardy.   Travel with friends or family if possible. If you have friends or family who also are retirees with time on their hands, organize a group trip abroad. Groups are less likely to be targeted by criminals than couples, and overseas trips with friends or family members can make trips overseas that much more memorable and enjoyable.

Overseas travel is a popular goal of men and women on the verge of retirement or those who have already called it a career. But safety must remain a priority when traveling abroad.

Strange News

www.cuencadispatch.com | THE CUENCA DISPATCH | ISSUE 17 |

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Couples Face Heavy Competition In Thanks To Creepy Clowns, Ronald McDonald Is Lying Low The Bizarre Sport Of Wife Carrying

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merica’s creepy clown problem is getting so out of hand that even beloved clown Ronald McDonald seems a little freaked out.

The fast-food chain McDonald’s told The Huffington Post on Tuesday that its famed corporate mascot will be lying low for a while, in light of surging reports of creepy clown sightings across the country.

“McDonald’s and franchisees in local markets are mindful of the current climate around clown sightings in communities,” the company said in an email statement.

“And as such are being thoughtful with respect to Ronald McDonald’s participation in community events for the time being.”

McDonald’s isn’t placing an outright ban on public appearances by its rednosed clown, a corporate spokesman said. But the company is “being thoughtful in regards to” Ronald McDonald’s appearances.

Clown-related pranks and sightings have been making regular appearances in national headlines, from small towns in North Carolina, to neighborhoods in California ― and even to the islands of Hawaii.

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arried couples face a lot of hurdles, but not like the contestants in the North American Wife Carrying Championship.

This year’s competition took place Saturday at a ski resort in Newry, Maine. Forty-four competing couples put their relationship ― and their muscles ― to the test by running through an obstacle course that included log hurdles, sand traps and mud. Lots and lots of mud.

As the event title implies, the man has to carry his beloved through the whole 278-yard course, according to The Associated Press. The couples don’t have to be married, but each team must have a male and female member over the age of 21.

The couple with the fastest time wins fame, glory, the woman’s weight in beer and an amount of cash equal to five times her weight.

Elliot and Giana Storey of Westbrook, Maine, had the top time of 59.18 seconds and ran away with 11 cases of Goose Island Oktoberfest beer and $665. The Storeys will also have a new story to tell: Saturday’s win qualified them for the world championship wife-carrying competition in Sonkajarvi, Finland, next summer, according to the Bethel Sun Journal.

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HOROSCOPES

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HOROSCOPES ARIES - Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, it is not possible to postpone the inevitable this week. It is better to get right into action and tackle anything that comes your way promptly. Resist the urge to procrastinate.

TAURUS - Apr 21/May 21 Do your best to keep handling some pressure in your professional life, Taurus.

You may be in for a few more days of scrutiny, but your performance will be appreciated.

GEMINI - May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, when working with a group, understand that everyone is in it together and that there is no reason to try to trump another person's victory. Everyone will share the glory.

CANCER - Jun 22/Jul 22 Expect to be hard at work tackling an important professional project, Cancer.

While you might be able to handle it solo, don't hesitate to call in reinforcements.

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LEO - Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, a conflict today might be seen as a valuable learning experience tomorrow.

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VIRGO - Aug 24/Sept 22 Trivial things may get blown out of proportion in the coming days, Virgo. Try your best to concentrate on work and let meaningless distractions fall by the wayside.

LIBRA - Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, a flexible attitude may open the door to some wonderful opportunities that present themselves at the most unexpected times. Keep an open mind.

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SCORPIO - Oct 24/Nov 22 Allow your emotional intensity to subside for a bit, Scorpio. The future is looking brighter now that you have made some major overhauls in your life. Keep the momentum going.

SAGITTARIUS - Nov 23/Dec 21 Sagittarius, trust your instincts this week. You harbor some passionate feelings about certain things, so try to voice those feelings to the people who will be affected by them.

CAPRICORN - Dec 22/Jan 20 Secrecy will not work for you, Capricorn. Come up with a different strategy this week. It can sometimes be uncomfortable, but honesty is always the best policy.

AQUARIUS - Jan 21/Feb 18 Some emotional storm clouds have finally started to clear out, Aquarius. Your mind is open to possibilities that were previously hidden. It's time to make some serious choices.

PISCES - Feb 19/Mar 20 Pisces, take your time when mulling an important decision. Only you will know how much time you need, so don't allow others to pressure you.

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cLuEs Across 1. Derived from senses 10. Extemporaneous 12. Japanese religion 13. Body louse (slang) 15. Most adroit 16. Formatted electronic data 18. An alternative 19. 3rd largest whale 20. 6th tone 21. Gentlemen 24. Car mechanics group 27. Breakfast pastry 30. Where one sits 31. Oh, God! 33. Scientific workplace 34. No seats available 35. MN 55120 37. Assistance 39. Environmental Protection Agency 41. Reconstruct 42. Russian ruler 44. Female Muslim quarters 47. Radioactivity unit 48. Window glass 49. Atomic #18 50. Consume 52. The golden state 53. Mosquito disease 56. Authoritatively ordered

61. Yielding 62. On all sides 63. Br. romantic poet 65. Cruel vocal quality cLuEs doWn 1. Irritated state 2. Sea eagle 3. Fish capturing devices 4. An informal photograph 5. Old English 6. Competes 7. Pressed a shirt 8. Averse to others 9. Mother of Apollo 10. Radio frequency 11. Have already done 12. Baseball championship playoffs World __ 14. Snakelike fishes 15. Br. slang for sleep 17. Telegraphic signal 22. More scarce 23. Step excavation of ore 24. Envision 25. A gelling agent in foods 26. Impatient expectancy 28. Civil Rights group 29. 3rd largest Balearic island 32. Mama’s partner

36. Head gesture 38. Moved to music 40. N. & S. of the new world 43. Discern the written word 44. Thigh of a hog 45. Mures river city 46. Crew member 51. Liang weight units 54. __ Angeles 55. Adrenocorticotropin 56. Mend a sock 57. Shallowest Great lake 58. Gadidae fish 59. Area floor coverings 60. Point midway between NE and E 64. “You know” in Canada

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| ISSUE 17 | THE CUENCA DISPATCH | www.cuencadispatch.com

Explaining atrial fibrillation

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Health & Wellness • Structural heart defects • Pericarditis • Congenital heart defects Can atrial fibrillation be prevented?

There is no guaranteed way to prevent AF, though certain lifestyle choices can reduce a person's risk for the condition. A heart-healthy diet that's low in cholesterol, saturated fat and trans fat and also includes daily servings of various whole grains, fruits and vegetables can lower a person's risk for AF. Daily physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight and not smoking also can lower a person's risk.

Atrial fibrillation is a rising threat across the globe. More information about AF can be found at www.heart.org.

Cauliflower soup with almonds and macadamias

n late 2013, the World Health Organization released results from a data analysis that examined atrial fibrillation and its prevalence across the globe.

The results were troubling, indicating that 33.5 million people worldwide have the condition.

If those figures don't raise an eyebrow, that's likely because few people are familiar with atrial fibrillation, in spite of its prevalence. A broader understanding of atrial fibrillation, often referred to as AF, may help people reduce their likelihood of developing the condition.

What is atrial fibrillation?

The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute notes that atrial fibrillation is the most common type of arrhythmia, which is a problem with the rate or rhythm of the heartbeat. AF occurs when rapid, disorganized electrical signals cause the heart's two upper chambers, known as the atria, to contract very quickly and irregularly.

What happens when a person has atrial fibrillation?

The heart is not functioning properly when a person has atrial fibrillation.

That's because blood pools in the atria when a person has AF, and because of that pooling, the blood is not pumped completely into the heart's two lower chambers, which are known as the ventricles. As a result, the heart's upper and lower chambers do not work in conjunction as they do when the heart is fully healthy.

Are there symptoms of atrial fibrillation?

Some people with AF do not feel symptoms and only learn of their condition after physical examinations. That highlights the importance of scheduling annual physicals for all people, but especially for people with a personal or family history of heart trouble.

According to the American Heart Association, the most common symptom of AF is a quivering or fluttering heartbeat, which is caused by abnormal firing of electrical impulses. Anyone who feels such a symptom or suspects their heartbeat is abnormal should consult a physician immediately.

In addition to a quivering or fluttering heartbeat, the AHA notes that people with AF may experience one or more of the following symptoms: • General fatigue • Dizziness • Shortness of breath and anxiety • Weakness Ingredients: • Faintness or confusion • Fatigue when exercising 1 head cauliflower, cut into flowerets • Sweating 2 cups salt reduced vegetable stock • Chest pain or pressure 4 cups water The AHA warns that people experiencing chest pain or pressure are having a 1 medium onion, roughly chopped medical emergency that requires immediate medical attention. Whether or not 1 small clove garlic, crushed symptoms of AF are detected, the condition can still increase a person's risk for 1 small fennel bulb, chopped serious medical problems, including stroke.

2 teaspoons lemon juice Who is at risk for atrial fibrillation?

1/3 cup almond meal No one is immune to atrial fibrillation, though risk of developing the condition 1/3 cup unsalted chopped toasted macadamias rises as a person ages. Men are more likely than women to develop AF, which 6 medium whole grain bread rolls, to serve the NHLBI notes is more common among whites than African Americans or Hispanic Americans.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (preparation 20 minutes) People suffering from hyperthyroidism, a condition characterized by excessive Serves 6 amounts of the thyroid hormone, are at greater risk for AF than those without the condition. In addition, people who are obese and those who have been diagnosed with diabetes or lung disease are at greater risk for AF than those Instructions: without such conditions. ​1. Place cauliflower, stock, water, onion, garlic and fennel in a large saucepan The NHLBI also notes that AF is more common in people who have: over medium heat. Simmer for 20-25 minutes until very soft.

• High blood pressure 2. Transfer the mixture to a food processor, add lemon juice and blend until • Coronary heart disease • Heart failure roughly combined. Add almond meal and continue blending until smooth.

• Rheumatic heart disease 3. Serve topped with toasted macadamias and a bread roll.

www.cuencadispatch.com | THE CUENCA DISPATCH | ISSUE 17 |

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WHAT'S HAPPENING AROUND TOWN AND BEYOND....

"What’s Happening..." is updated weekly with a large variety of events that both ex-pats and Ecuadorians will enjoy. If you have an interesting event you would like to publicize, please email us at: thevegetablebar@yahoo.com for consideration.

Adhikara Yoga What: Adhikara Yoga classes. All levels and abilities, bilingual.

When: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 8:15AM - 9:45 AM; Tuesday, Thursday, 6:30 PM. Where: Remigio tamariz 2-40 y Federico Proaño Contact: Aubree Jeanne: adhikara.yoga.3@facebook.com 099 255 6981.

Chess Club in Cuenca What: Every age group and skill level is welcome and we play for fun with an emphasis on slow improvement and chess camaraderie that brings us together.

When: Every Saturday from 3 PM- 6PM. Where: Cafe Austria (Hermano Miguel and Simon Bolivar) Cost: Free Contact: Nicholas Barringer: barringernicholas@gmail.com English Speaking Catholic Mass What: English speaking Catholic Mass with Fr. Francis.

When: Every Sunday at 12:30PM. Where: San Roque Catholic Church, Loja, 2 blocks from 12 de Abril Cost: Free Contact: Owadehampton@gmail.com The Gathering What: English speaking Christian Fellowship, Praise and Worship Celebration Service.

When: Every Sunday at 10:08AM Where: Gran Colombia 9-78, between Padre Aguire and Benigno Malo Cost: Free Contact: pastorgreg@thegatheringec.com or brian@briangary.net Free Walking Tours of Cuenca by Cuencanos What: Walk around Cuenca and learn about this beautiful city through Cuencanos eyes. Learn more about Cuenca’s culture, traditions and history. English and Spanish.

When: Mondays and Tuesdays at 11:15 AM, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 10 AM Where: Seminario San Luis (Between Raymipamba restaurant and Tutto Fredo) – Maki Fairtrade Store Cost: Free Contact: freewalkingtourscue@hotmail.com 099 848 5390 International Theatre Festival, October 12-24 What: This 10th year of Cuenca’s exciting international theatre festival, “Escenarios del Mundo”,

Galeria Otorongo artisan, October specials For the rest of October, we have 20% off all scarfs. We stock high-end artesan pieces ideal for family / friends and gifts. PreInca. Petroglyphs designs, unique technique craftwork, leather wallets, paintings, gift cards, textiles mandalas and embroidery.

Monday to Friday, visit us in Plaza Otorongo next to Sabatinos restaurant.

Magy Peña: galeriaotorongo@hotmail.com 099 514 0974 La Primavera totally organic laundry detergent/fabric softener La Primavera is a wholly organic detergent/fabric softener combo manufactured here in Azuay. It gets clothes clean and smelling fresh without all of the harsh chemicals so commonly used in detergents here. A new product, we have already heard great positive feedback from our customers such as this email we received from a recent customer: "Just wanted to send you a note regarding the laundry detergent. I used it for the first time today and was very impressed. Our clothes didn't smell of soap and they were so soft I couldn't believe it. This is the first time since living here (4 years) that our clothes and towels have been this soft. Store bought softeners are a real waste. You have a great product and you can count on us to keep using it.”

La Primavera is priced at $2.50/liter or $9/gallon. Not currently available in stores, you can contact me directly at johncoshea@ yahoo.com or meet us this coming Tues. Oct. 18th, at Ali Baba Kabab on Remigio Crespo y Augustin Cueva (behind Subway) from noon – 2 PM. John: 099 519 466 Cuenca Health and Wellness Group Formerly called the Cancer Support Group, the Health and Wellness is designed for anyone who is interested in learning about how to create and maintain a healthy lifestyle or those who are seeking ways to approach disease, The group is regularly attended by doctors and practitioners who share information and answer questions about integrative pathways to health and healing. Our guest speaker at our October 18 meeting will be Barbara Flores, a practitioner of Ayurveda and massage therapist. The meetings are free to all who want to learn more about natural ways to stay healthy and fight disease.

Tuesday, October 18, from 2 - 3:30, Miguel Estrella 3-50 y Alfonso Jervis, Cuenca.

Robert Higgins: CuencaHolisticGuide@gmail.com

highlights productions from 9 countries, from France to Uruguay.

When: October Wednesday, 12th thru Monday, October 24th. For times, see “Escenarios del Mundo” on Facebook Where: Pumapungo Theatre Cost: $6 Contact: laportea2@yahoo.com

Halloween Scare by Cuenca Events What: Halloween Costume Party with buffet and DJ; When: Thursday, October 27th from 5:30PM; buffet at 7:00PM Where: Villa San Carlos at Remigio Tamariz and Av. Solano Cost: $20.00 ; wine, beer and soda also available for purchase.

Contact: info@cuencaevents.com Shuar Ritual And Natural Medicine Wokshop What: Workshops on natural medicine and alternative treatments and traditional rituals performed by the Shaur community.

When: Thursday, October 27th and Saturday October 29th, 1000AM to 12:00PM Where: Avenida Gonzalez Suarez 8-58 Cost: $5.00 Contact: info@alternatur-cuenca.com Mexican Dinner to benefit Refugio Del Mejor Amigo What: Fundraiser to help care for 70 dogs at Refugio Del Mejor Amigo shelter in Miraflores. ith live music and raffle.

When: Saturday, COtober 29th from, 7:00PM to 10:00PM Where: Cactus Cafe, Guyanas 1-22 y Av. Pumapungo Cost: $15.00 Contact: Trish Tiura at eamonsmom@rocketmail.com 0981322654 Birdwatching Tour, El Cajas National Park What: Birders Cuenca outing includes transport, bilingual guide, lunch, bird list and book.

When: Saturday, October 29, 2016 Where: Hermano Miguel 4-70 and Honorato Vásquez ; El Cajas National Park Cost: $125 Contact: Edisson Juca: polylepistours@hotmail.com 098 511 6721

CLASSIFIEDS Reflexology promotion at Gato Alado Project This promotion is from October 10th to 30th. You can have 2 reflexology session for $50. Reflexology is a foot massage in which I stimulate pressure points in the feet which has therapeutic effects on the entire body. It’s used for relaxation and to stimulate circulation and help to assist in different diseases.

Celeste Barbotto mcbarbotto@hotmail.com 098 771 5367 Address: Presidente Cordova 14-43

Best roses from Cuenca Are you looking for high quality roses and don’t know where to find them? If you’re looking for the best, then look no further than floristeria Challuabamba. We offer beautiful roses in a variety of colors that have been produced to the highest standards. We would be happy to showcase how our roses are carefully cultivated to ensure our customers receive the finest roses in the market.

For more information, feel free to contact me from 10 AM to 10 PM. Israel López: israel.lopez41@hotmail.com 098 668 0859 2017 Adult Coloring Calendar available at Carolina Bookstore Have a stress-free 2017, My new, 15-month, 2017 Adult Coloring Calendar features a different motivational quote for each month by a famous artist, well, except for the quote by me because I’m not really famous. You can get this calendar for just $10 at the Carolina Bookstore and color away 2017 and the first 3 months of 2018.

Hermano Migue y Calle Larga Carolyn V. Hamilton: CaroModernArt@gmail.com 099 998 8777

TVs refrigerator microwave Samsung, 50-inch smart TV, $1000 LG, 32-inch smart TV, $480 Electrolux refrigerator, $300 Microwave, Oster, $80 Lee: viper1950@hotmail.com

To place your FREE ad, e-mail it to: freead@savorec.com

Best price on the market Hello, friends, I’m offering a high quality butter, made at diary factory in Quito for the best price you can find.

1 kilo (2.2 pounds) for $5.99.

If you bake a lot you will see the difference, plus i t’s a great cost saving option. It’s an excellent product for reasonable price.

If you order 5 packs I’ll deliver it to your place.

Alex: alexdan2507@gmail.com 096 905 9339 | Call after: 8 AM. Franco Organico at Common Grounds this Saturday Franco Organico, an organic farmer in Malacatos near Vilcabamba, will be at Common Grounds this Saturday, October 22nd. He will be selling his much-loved coffee, peanuts, peanut butter and peanut fudge. You can also buy his pineapple jam and strawberry jam, both sugar free, but you need to place an order for jam no later than Wednesday at 5 PM. Please send your jam orders by Wednesday at 5 PM to Deb at: dasperlak@gmail.com Saturday, October 22nd, 9 am to 4 pm, Common Grounds, Eduardo Crespo Malo y Gran Colombia, Cuenca.

Deb: dasperlak@gmail.com Desk, computer table, and office lamp for sale I am downsizing to move into a smaller apartment and have a desk and computer table for sale. Both were handmade in Cuenca. Items would have to be picked up by October 24.

Very nice and sturdy. - Desk: $450 - Computer Table: $100 Or $500 if you buy both - Also have an office lamp I brought with me from the US - Price: $35 Marcia Glenn: marciakglenn@me.com Vitamin C IV megadoses From $20, plus home service. Did you know that the serum therapy of vitamin C in megadoses can help in your battle against cancer and other degenerative diseases?

Sueroterapia of vitamins and trace elements helps detoxify the body and nourish cells to treat cancer in hand with your conventional treatment. Home service.

Any time, Cuenca and Quito Lorena Paredes : lorenaparedesobando@gmail.com

THE VEGETABLE BAR IS EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE THE OPENING OF ITS ON-SITE VEGETABLE BAR TIENDA! AND THERE'S NO BETTER WAY TO START THAN TO LET YOU KNOW WE WILL BE CARRYING THESE GREAT PRODUCTS FROM THESE TRUSTED PROVIDERS! DAVID KRAFT WINES: 8 PORTUGUESE WINES AND 2 SPANISH WINES WITH MORE COMING! CAROLINA SMOKEHOUSE: APPLEWOOD SMOKED BACON, SAGE BREAKFAST SAUSAGE PATTIES, CANADIAN BACON, PROSCIUTTO, BACON BITS, BISCUIT MIX, STREUSEL COFFEE CAKE, BROWNIE MIX, SAUERKRAUT, SALSA AND PULLED PORK

NOW EVERYDAY! The Vegetable Bar's Own Special Chicken Pot Pie $7.95

CUENCA SALMON: FRESH SALMON PORTIONS, SMOKED SALMON, SMOKED TROUT AND SMOKED TILAPIA THE VEGETABLE BAR WILL ALSO BE OFFERING A WIDE VARIETY OF PRODUCTS FROM IT'S OWN KITCHEN, PACKAGED ESPECIALLY FOR YOU TO TAKE HOME!

SO COME CHECK US OUT! WE KNOW ONCE YOU SEE WHAT WE HAVE, YOU'LL BE COMING IN OFTEN TO ENJOY THESE GREAT PRODUCTS!

 WEEKLY SPECIALS  Friday, Oct. 20th: Beer Battered Fish and Chips with Homemade Coleslaw and Tartar Sauce.

2-Piece $8.95 3-Piece $9.95

Tuesday, Oct. 24th: Gluten Free Chicken Piccata with Grilled Asparagus and House $8.95

Monday, Oct. 23rd: Sunday, Oct. 22nd: Saturday, Oct. 21st: Pan-Seared Salmon with Braised Balsamic Chicken Spicy Chili in an Individual with Savory Mushrooms Kale and Apple Salad and Clay Pot with a Sweet Potato Puree and Mashed Sweet Potato Cornbread Top $10.95 Piece $8.95 $8.95

Tuesday, Oct. 24th: Jerk Chicken Burger and Sweet Potato Fries with Chipotle Mayo. $7.95

Wednesday, Oct. 25th: Grilled Citrus Wasabi Chicken and Rice Paper Spring Rolls with Homemade Thai Peanut Sauce. $8.95

Thursday, Oct 26th: Italian Corvina Skewers with Lemon Sauce and Asian Cucumber Sesame Salad $8.95

Friday, Oct. 27th: Beer Battered Fish and Chips with Homemade Coleslaw and Tartar Sauce.

2-Piece $8.95 3-Piece $9.95

Paseo 3 de Noviembre y Jacaranda (antes Hotel Oro Verde) Hours: Mon. - Sat. 9:00am-7:00pm

(5pm on sundays and 8:00pm on tuesdays)

0989.358.169 | www.thevegetablebar.com