insider
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J U LY - N OV E M B E R 1 4 vol. 1 issue 1
[V I E Q U E S ]
CONNECTING VISITORS TO VIEQUES
CYCLE OF LIFE G I F TS F RO M TH E SEA
20 P.39- 42
BEACHES TO EXPLORE
ESSENTIAL GUIDE INSIDE!
P.24-25
VQS017 LEATHERBACK RETURNS TO PLAYA GRANDE P. 45-47
EL BLOK P.21-23
BUSINESS PHONE DIRECTORY P.30
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BAR+ RESTAURANT by
BAR horas 4:30pm - 12.00am (sunday - wednesday) (full bar menu) 4:30pm - 1.00am (thursday-saturday) RESTAURANT horas 6:00pm - 10:00 (sunday - wednesday) 6:00pm - 10:30 (thursday-saturday) HOTEL 21 habitaciones from $175.00
------------------------------------------------------------------------elblok.com
esperanza,vieques,puerto rico.+1 787 741 6020 (ph) +1 212 208 2566 (f) 2
Island ambience. Amazing food.
Next Course
c u i s i n e i n s p i r e d b y t r av e l
sample ........menu Pan seared jumbo Scallops, wild mushroom duxelle, potato nest, white truffle drizzle, pancetta dust Maple Leaf Duck confit, flat bread tartine, mission fig compote, shoe string shallots, smoked crème fresh
Open fri. – wed. 5:30 pm – 10 pm closed July 30-october 16 reopening friday october 17 Open Thanksgiving Thursday. reservations recommended
787-741-1028 nextcourseinfo@yahoo.com
House dry aged beef Carpaccio, Manny’s mix greens, pickled red onion, capers, grain mustard Cesar, Parmigiano Reggiano In house dry aged beef cut of the day, herb butter, twice baked potato pie, grilled tomato confit Butter poached Caribbean lobster, white truffle scented crab risotto, prosciutto bound asparagus, caramelized fennel cream.
Salads, light appetizers, and tapas too! 3
SUMMER SERIES
AT W RETREAT & SPA - VIEQUES ISLAND
SORCĒ RESTAURANT SIP REFRESHING DRINK SPECIALS
SAVOR FLAVORS SHOWCASING LOCAL PRODUCE
BOOK NOW SORCEVIEQUES.COM / 787 741 7022
AWAY® SPA 80 MINUTE CAFÉ CON COCO BODY SCRUB LIQUID LUXXE AWAY SPA MASSAGE $220 50 MINUTE LIQUID LUXXE AWAY SPA MASSAGE $130 50 MINUTE HOME MADE CAFÉ CON COCO SCRUB $130 BOOK NOW AWAYSPAVIEQUES.COM / 787 741 7021 4
J U LI E D E C HTE R OWNER/BROKER #11261 SE HABLA ESPANOL
email: info@viequesrealtyandrentals.com
787.741.0330 www.viequesrealtyandrentals.com
changes
Casa Limones
This spacious home sits on 15 mountain-top acres of prime land in the exclusive La Llave sector of Puerto Real. There are water vistas in every direction, with views of the Atlantic to the north and the Caribbean to the south. A series of vaulted pavilions with a total of four bedrooms and three bathrooms, give the home an open, inviting feel. The pool, seamlessly joined to the expansive outside terraces, is 32 feet long, 16 feet wide and 8 feet deep, an ideal size for swimming laps. Great care has been taken with the landscaping of Casa Limones, with lush, manicured tropical gardens surrounding the house, and the remainder of the property consisting of pasture and natural jungle. Casa Limones is a property that was thoughtfully and lovingly created, offered now at a very attractive price. $1,390,000 http://casalimones-vieques.com
ViLLa de oro Perfectly Beautiful in Esperanza Mango Tango is a gorgeously designed and remodeled two-bedroom/two bath home ideally located just blocks from the watefront and beach at Sun Bay. Situated on a large and landscaped lot, the property is offered turn-key and with a rental history. The kitchen features fantastic polished concrete counters and eating bar that are truly top-notch. Storage shed and room for a pool out back. $249,000
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The most recognized chefs from San Juan and Vieques showcase their award-winning recipes. Sorcé Carambola Sabores Conuco Mar Azul Coqui Fire Noche Tin Box Duffy’s Banana’s Bili
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August 23rd 1 4 6pm
reach
for Success
Chef Mario Pagán Chef Jose Enrique Montes Chef Roberto Treviño Chef Ariel Rodríguez Chef Marisoll Hernández Chef Juan Camacho Mixologist Leslie Cofresí
save
v the v
Donation: $150 Vieques Residents: $100
date
Tickets for sale at the Funky Beehive Your donation will benefit the REACH FOR SUCCESS PROGRAM, helping build the future of young Vieques residents.
101 scholarships have been awarded with the help of this event and your ticket purchase. REACH FOR SUCCES S SCHOLARSHIP BENEFICIARIES 2014 Jemny Martinez Ivan Montalvo Luis Ramos Elizabeth Garcia Juan Castillo Wilmer Reyes Alondra Cruz Ricardo Torres Jose B Santos Orlando Cruz Xavier Maldonado Emilio Miranda Obet Torres 2012-2013 Arsenio J. Osorio Ivette Cruz Michelle Vélez Dayra Camacho Nathaniel Martínez Jovanlie Díaz Zayra Ramos Bonano Gabriela Carambot Iobed E. Calzada Juleinny Peterson Nelson Santoni Nieves
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Adglen S. Benjamin Heriberto Medina Alysa Agosto Jean Carlos Bermudez 2011-2012 Roberto Cabezudo Solanch Estrada Cleyvi Luciano Alcantara Jacqueline O Ramos Vega Carlos D. Rosario Boulogne Melanie Santos Hill Harryelis Reyes Jamal Perez Jonathan Martines 2010-2011 Joshua A Sanchez Pereira Raymond Marin Luis Jean Carlos Aponte Garcia Yoandra Martinez Franco
Roberto E Mateo Ramos Elier R. Mateo Ramos Adelmari Lassus De Jesus Katyliz M Suarez Rosario Axsel J Fields Monell Dara M Velazquez Rivera Javier Torres Zulyneth Perez Dayanne Ventura Lopez Stephanie Ñeco Morales 2009-2010 Vanessa Castillo Carlos Felix Yaraines Bonano Alex Candelaria Jurianne Velez Mildred Toro Erick Cruz Yeisha Quinones Christie Ojeda
Monica Cruz Carmen Rosa Jose Alfredo Fontanez Emmanuel Campbell Enrique De Leon Lorell Quiles Jennifer Perez 2008-2009 Luis Jose Bayron Raul Garcia Jhovan Melendez Denissa Lopez Lisamar Candelaria Liannie Alvarez Anna Lilian Miro Enrique Juan Martinez Julio Rivera Michel Wolfrom Mara Kiany Olivieri Britanny Oquendo
TASTEOFTHEISLANDSEXTRAVAGANZA
Yaileene Rexach Benitez Isaura Torres Marena Olivieri Ventura 2007-2008 Jose Luis Bayron Yeriel Camacho Billy Wolfrom Jose Alejandro Jessette Maldonado Luis Miguel Rosa Edward Rivers Ariam Cruz Caribmar Gonzalez 2006-2007 Janice Camacho Rosa Jaime Camacho Yistalie Serrano Cassandra Castillo Janitza Alejandro Elisamuel Rosa Analie Cruz Priscilla Perez Rodriguez Eliasib Utreras Yashira Bonano
Creative Puerto Rican Cuisine
Vieques Catering Weddings and eVents
Restaurant Open Thurs – Tues. • 11am to 10pm Weekends closing time 11pm Closed on Wednesdays
787.741.1382
Choose Vieques Catering to cater and plan your wedding or event. Custom care and attention to detail is our speciality. And, of course, the food! Menus customized for you. Catering by Chef Eva Bolivar
www.viequescatering.com 787.402.0357
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EDITOR / PUBLISHER KELLY THOMPSON WEB DESIGN MARC MARGATE GRAPHIC DESIGNER KELLY THOMPSON GEN. ASSISTANT CHEO DIAZ MALDONADO PRINTER IMPRESSIONS ASSOCIATES ADVERTISING / SALES KELLY THOMPSON
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
Welcome to the first edition of the Vieques Insider. It is a project born of joy, adventure and appreciation of the beauty that surrounds us all, most of which I discovered after I came to the island of Vieques. Like many of you, I set out for this piece of Paradise with one suitcase and a lifetime of hopes and fears. Trading what some friends called the “real” world for island life I rented an unfurnished house, which I never furnished, worked as many restaurants shifts as I possibly could, and searched desperately for my place in the sun. That was 2003, when Puerto Rican water workers were on strike and running water didn’t run for ninety two days. The island quickly taught me to appreciate things that I’d taken for granted for so long - friends, a sturdy bike, a stunning view of something amazing at all times, and, yes, water. Oh, and time itself. It slowed to the point that I could start observing life rather than feeling it flash by. And like many before me, I fell in love with this island... with its natural rhythms, its stunning physical beauty and its people, one person in particular. With him, a house was built and a beautiful child and home were born. That’s my story. There are a thousand others here, more colorful and more amazing. In this publication I hope to bring them to you, be they the island’s beauty, culture, food, art or people. In doing so, I hope the Vieques Insider helps you, residents and visitors alike, come to know more about this very real world –Vieques.
Kelly Thompson Avoid touching any marine life, wherever possible. Starfish have delicate tube feet which are used in locomotion, feeding and respiration. When you encounter a starfish never pull or pry it off a rock or surface that it is clinging to. Never remove animals from the water.
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787.435.3172
WWW.VIEQUESINSIDER.COM
C O N T R I B U TO R S
Scott D. Appell, the Green Man, originally from NYC, is a garden writer, horticultural taxonomist and ethnobotanist. He writes, gardens, and teaches horticulture on Vieques, PR. He happens to be a professional baker as well.
Mark Martin Bras plays an important role in protecting and preserving the ecological environment of Vieques as well as educating the youth through his daily work and Manta programs at the Vieques Conservation and Historical Trust. He has helped redefine light pollution standards for Puerto Rico and is working tirelessly to preserve and study the BioBay.
Ben M. Gasirowski, M.D., FACEP Board Certified in Emergency Medicine and Internal Medicine, he lives part time on Vieques.
Barbara Hyland and her husband Geoffrey Armstrong have been Vieques winter residents for twenty years. She served on the Board of the Vieques Conservation and Historical Trust for 12 years, the last 6 as President. Barbara is the former publisher of the Financial Times of Canada and Investment Executive, a national publication in Canada for the financial services industry.
ON THE COVER
Tom Kirkbright, a USGC Licensed Captain, and his wife Caroline first landed foot on Vieques in 2004. They fell in love with its people, beaches and charm. They bought a house and moved from NJ to enjoy the island life and spend time “On The Water”.
Cynthia Nicholson came to Vieques over 20 years ago and was immediately smitten with its wild beauty. Cynthia has served as an editor, producer, and writer for many national publications such as Cooking Light, Country Living, and Real Simple. For the past several years she has developed her passions for food, wine and travel into her own business: consulting and hosting custom food and wine-purposed curated excursions to Sicily, North Africa, and other Mediterranean destinations. Tom O’Grady Jr. is an author and freelance writer from Philadelphia with literature and writing degrees from Temple University (B.A.) and Rutgers University (M.A.). Tom has written in numerous commercial genres including business and training, marketing and advertising and newspaper and magazine features. He has focused on writing fiction for the last five years and has published three novels, all available on Amazon.com and select stores. He lives on Vieques with his wife, Liz, where he is currently writing a fourth novel.
Trade Winds oN THE MALECoN IN ESPERANzA
s o d ev ni
Serving spectacular views with fine food since 1984
B
ien
KKKKK
Lobster Special Nightly KKKKK
Relax and Enjoy
With The Best View Of The Caribbean Sea HAPPY HOUR drink specials 5 to 6:30
Tania Puell has dabbled in many careers. She’s worked as a blacksmith, a math teacher, a Web designer and developer and, most recently, owner and operator of Isla Nena Scuba.
Jennifer Teeter Award winning photographer Jennifer Teeter is marooned on Vieques. In her spare time she takes photographs and enjoys gardening. She holds degrees in journalism, art a nd anthropology.
“If there aren’t waves for a week or two, I just feel...empty.” Meet our cover model Alba Bermúdez. A 27 year old bodyboarder from Corozal, Puerto Rico, Alba lives her life to the call of the water. While some women her age are shopping for the latest trends in fashion and footwear, Alba carefully composes her wardrobe of designer rashguards and swimsuits. She moved to Vieques to work in the service industry in order to save money for the sole purpose of traveling: to catch waves, of course! When she travels, which is usually for at least a month, it is with her backpack and board. Costa Rica was “calling her” and she spent three months there, but the latest trip to Nicaragua soothed her soul. There she met people with the same passion, and they would wake up everyday at 5am to check the waves. “It is a lifestyle - and it suits me.” On land, she seems to possess the same buoyancy as in the water. It is no wonder that she practices aerial yoga, using scarves to float above land instead of her board. An elevated spirit, Alba possesses a memorable smile, and she’s certainly making waves on Vieques.
GREAT FOOD! GREAT PEOPLE! GREAT PLACE!
Dinner
Fresh Fish and Seafood Vegetarian Entrees Seafood Gala on Wednesdays Paella on Sundays EVERY NIGHT 5:30 - 9:30
Breakfast/ lunch Lobster Benedict
“Mary and The Boys” Salads Galore
seasiDe Guest house & Gift shop Great location • Walk to the beach $90 - $115 double a/c • breakfast included Gift shop open every day at 9am
CHECK oUT oUR MENU AND SPECIALS AT:
www.tradewindsvieques.com
787.741.8666
ALWAYS CHILDREN FRIENDLY EMAIL tradewindsvieques@gmail.com 9
What happens in Vieques...
Publico = Taxi Van
Vieques nickname “Isla Nena” • Little Girl Island
Malecon = Esplanade or boardwalk (oceanfront Esperanza)
Population (in 2010) • Total 9,301
No-see-ums = sandflies that come out at sunsetand they bite!
Esperanza means Hope
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VIEQUES Esperanza 21 miles
gas stations
4 miles
GOOD TO KNOW
Isabel II (locals refer to as “town”)
experience ylang ylang Stand in front of the ATM at Banco Popular in Isabel II. Inhale deeply. To your left is a Ylang Ylang tree-valued for its fragrant flowers.
well, you know the rest. Welcome to summer, where, in Vieques, things slow down and heat up! If you are visiting for the first time – Bienvenidos (welcome)! Vieques moves at a different pace than many parts of the world. You are now on “island time” and here, people really do stop to smell the ylang ylang. Time is determined by the movement of life, not the hands of a clock. Moments are presented as gifts... moments to practice being, breathing, reflecting, enjoying! Here, an ever-present sun awakens you with a rooster’s crow, the smell of fresh bread, and the taste of amazing coffee. The sky-searing colors of El Sol’s evening descent begins a new adventure filled with tropical libations, exotic cuisine, Latin rhythms and nature’s call of the coquí. Allow yourself to unplug and unwind, to set aside that ticking clock and tap into the flow of a unique energy that is Isla Nena. Sun, sea, time and tide. It is for you to decide. 11
San Juan International (SJU) to VQS starting at $109 one way TOTAL COST: $109-$140 / 30 minute flight Isla Grande Airport (SIG) to VQS 10 minute cab ride from SJU-aprox. $20 Airfare starting at $72 one way TOTAL COST: Aprox $95-$120 / 17 minute flight
SJU SIG Isla Grande Airport
FAJARDO PUERTO RICO
RVR Ceiba Airport
getting here
Ceiba Airport (RVR) to VQS Aprox 1hr cab ride from San Juan to Ceiba $100 plus airfare starting at $34 one way / 7 minute flight Note: Publico Vans are located right outside baggage claim at SJU and can seat up to 10-12 people. Cost is per trip, not per person. TOTAL COST: Starting at $134 / 7 minute flight
VIEQUES
FLIGHT OR FERRY
San Juan International (SJU) to Fajardo Ferry to Vieques 1 hour cab ride to Fajardo ferry port $100 (aprox) • Ferry ticket $2 Vans can seat up to 10 people. Cost is per trip, not per person. [ Be prepared to wait or possibly be bumped if ferry is full! Vieques residents are seated first. It is not uncommon for the ferry to be late] TOTAL COST: Aprox $102 / 1 hour+ ferry
2 014 MOON CALENDAR 1
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Good to Know Many visitors think that Vieques is a sleepy, laid back island where you can sleep in your hammock on the beach without a care in the world. For the most part, this is true. But petty theft is everywhere and your vacation can end badly without some precaution and common sense. Be mindful that things (like cameras, wallets, computers) have a way of growing legs and walking off if not attended to. Follow some safety tips and always be aware of your surroundings and belongings.
The company with the newest and largest fleet. And great prices!
Maritza’s
We ta ke p ri d e in yo u r ri d e.
Car rental
ALWAYS lock the doors where you are staying. Period. First floor, second floor, every door. NEVER leave valuables unattended to. DON’T take valuables to the beach.
DON’T leave a cell phone or iPad charging next to an open window. Never leave house keys next to a window. USE COMMON SENSE when walking around at night. Never walk on the beaches alone after dark.
www.maritzascarrental.com Only car rental company with VQS airport counter Courtesy Van Service Largest, Newest fleet on the island 2015 Jeeps (four door and two door) Locally owned and operated Durangos offered for large groups
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locations
DON’T lock your car at the beach. Leave it open with nothing in it.
Main Office
787.741.0078 787.741.1666
Vieques airpOrt terMinal
787.741.0700
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#1 PIRATE’S COVE OR EL TANQUE
LA CHIVA # 1 - 15 LA PLATA >
JENNIFER TEETER
LA CHIVA # 15 - 21
NAMES, IDENTITY, AND HISTORICAL IMPORTANCE Names, derived from cultural roots, historical events, family heritage, or spiritual beliefs form an important part of history and define our mental map of the world and its value. During the time of the U.S. Navy occupation of Vieques the beaches were renamed based on colored flags placed on them for training exercises. The English words, Red, Blue, Green and Purple, became the Navy assigned names and they stuck. When the U.S. Navy closed their base and military operations in Vieques, 3,100 acres of land were transferred to Fish and Wildlife Services (FWS) in 2001 and the rest in 2003 totalling 20,000 acres, which makes Vieques the second largest natural protection and conservation area in all of Puerto Rico.
Set in motion by elders and community leaders from Vieques, the effort is underway to reclaim the former names of the beaches and restore their cultural significance and longevity. It will take time. Internet sites and publications still use the Navy names of beaches and you will hear many islanders still using the English names as well. But while you are here, please paint the mental map in your mind with the original Spanish names. The English names are listed on the right for your reference to the pull out map on the inside back cover. Thank you for participating in this milestone effort by honoring and using the original Spanish names of the beautiful beaches of Vieques.
HISTORICAL & LOCAL NAMES FORMER U.S. NAVY NAMES CARACAS / RED BEACH PLAYUELA / GARCIA BEACH PATA PRIETA / SECRET BEACH LA CHIVA / BLUE BEACH LA PLATA / ORCHID BEACH PUNTA ARENAS / GREEN BEACH CAMPAÑA / PURPLE BEACH MATIAS / YELLOW BEACH
BASEBALL, BABE RUTH, AND THE NAMING OF BRAVOS DE BOSTON
BRAVOS DE BOSTON
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In the 1920’s the popularity of baseball was exploding all over the world, and Vieques was no exception. The excitement was largely due to “the Bambino” or “the Sultan of Swat”, Babe Ruth himself who dominated the era and the bat. He retired in 1935 after a short time on the Boston Braves team. In 1948 baseball spirit was high and the Boston Braves were now going for the National League Pennant.
Viequenses and the local radio station followed and cheered the young Braves from Boston who had had such dismal previous seasons during the time of World War II. The Boston Braves were the underdogs still looking for that sweet spot and Viequenses could relate. Meanwhile, on Vieques, a beach along the north shore was being claimed and settled by locals who were staking the
land for themselves and their families. When the area was to be returned to the Vieques municipality, the mayor likened the venturesome beach settlers staking claim to their north shore land to the Boston Braves team, the underdogs, going for the pennant. And so the name for Bravos de Boston out of history, spirit and baseball, was born.
Speaking of It is commonly known that Hispanic names consist of a first name and two last names: the father’s last name and then the mother’s maiden name. Maria
Diaz
Names
Muñoz
[first name] [Father’s last name] [Mother’s last name]
But where do those beautiful, exotic first names come from? As you meet Viequenses while you are visiting you will encounter song-like names like Guelymar, AleValerie, Genoveva, Jaleyni, Kiani, Cacimar, Yaureibo, Jayuja – names that are inspired by the sea, by the Taino inhabitants of the island, by religion and by family. Often names are created by combining the names of the two grandmothers or the mother and father.
MEET THE CONNELY REYES KIDS (Ura) Michael Urayoan (Taino Indian Chief) Kiani (Lagoon) Xoari (Taino for eternal life) and Alexandra Zuanía (Taino for firm ground)
< Meet: Hadasa Eli Roman Peterson Hadasa is a biblical name representing righteaousness, and was the first name of Queen Esther. Eli means “high; ascended” or “my god”. Hadasa attends the Montessori School in Esperanza and is 4 years old. > Meet: Tanyaí Garcia Cruz Tanyaí is a combination of her grandmother’s name, Taní, and a sister, Yaitanny.
Bodas
Vieques Weddings Experts at planning, organizing and orchestrating weddings and events to match your vision and dreams.
Flores Florista
Flowers and custom bouquets for every occasion.
Toda La Casa Home Decor Household items, dishes, kitchenware, lamps, and much, much more!
202-276-8601 bodas.vieques@gmail.com
floresvieques@gmail.com
787.236.7224 15
Navio & Friends
Submitted by: Eugenio Rivera, Esq.
shared moment
Navio Beach is unique. Because of where it is located and the prevaling winds, most of the time the waves are a little rough; great for boogie boarding and body surfing. But on certain days when the conditions are right, Navio turns into a POOL. Many Viequenses ask where I took this picture. Navio! I used a 1978 Canon F-1 with 800 ASA with no digital effects, no filters or re-touching. Pure film. THAT day was fun! We swam like fish and could not believe that our favorite beach had turned into our own private pool. It was just perfect.
navío
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I, —I took the one to Navío.
Navio is known for its bodysurfin’, cliff jumpin’, cave goin’ surf. Oh... and the road to get there. With heavy rain the arroyo, (stream bed), will cross the road to Navio making it impassable even with a 4 wheel drive vehicle.
Be Prepared
Fix a Flat / Tire Inflator Pick one of these up at any convenience store or gas station on the island and save yourself a lot of trouble. Flats happen and usually not in the most convenient places. Just connect, inflate and go! It will only seal temporarily so call your rental company for directions on where to go to get it fixed. If your car won’t start when leaving the beach, before panicking, first, check your battery cable connections. On rough roads they tend to loosen and bounce off. Tighten them up and try again!
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Servicing Ceiba and Vieques.
SWIMMING BODY SURFING SHADE HIKING
Call to reserve now.
GREAT PHOTO OPPORTUNITY IN CAVE ON EAST SIDE OF BEACH
Ceiba Office 787 885 0505
located at the Ceiba airport ...........................................
Vieques Office 787 741 0284
located on rt 200 Vieques
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JENNIFER TEETER
With convenient pick up and drop off at the Fajardo ferry dock when renting in Ceiba.
whDR
on the malecon in esperanza
Beverly Davenport ..............
Personal Chef Caribbean Cuisine made at your location or delivered to your door!
215.313.1241 savannahdavenport123@yahoo.com
O p e n e v e ry day ! 9am-11:00am Breakfast 11:00-3 Lunch dinner everynight except Thursday Fri-Sun BBQ night 5-9pm Wed paella 6:30-9pm reservations requested
787.741.3336 Best Ribs on the island!
wi-fi
Best Sandwich on the island! 17
CRABBING STORIES
V
ieques has been known for its abundance of land crabs for hundreds of years. In fact, when the British first landed on Vieques, they were so amazed by the number of land crabs, they informally re-named Vieques “Crab Island”. Since the 1900s, land crab populations all over Puerto Rico began to collapse due to an aggressive extermination campaign by the Puerto Rican government to keep this “plague” from eating too much of the sugar cane. Over-harvesting or fishing of land crabs as well as building projects across the main island of Puerto Rico have played a role in the decline of the species. Because the Department of Natural and Environmental Resources of Puerto Rico has them listed as a vulnerable and protected species across the Commonwealth, there is a yearly ban from July 15 to October 15 and a permanent ban on fishing land crabs in any con-
25 PERMITS GRANTED FOR 2014 SEASON
VIEQUES NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE
servation reserve including the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge. Fishing for crabs is part of the Viequense culture and a recreational and family pastime. The community requested that the USFWS explore the feasibility of land crabbing on the Vieques National Wildlife Refuge. The USFWS collaborated with the University of Nebraska and the Vieques Conservation Group, TICATOVE, to conduct a number of comprehensive tests to study the land crab population on Vieques. It was determined that a recreational and sustainable fishing season for land crabs could be implemented on the Refuge without affecting the species population. Without regulated seasons the Vieques land crab population is at risk of decline. It is hoped that the crab fishing season will become a yearly sporting family event. Last year there were competions for different categories and the competition was fierce. This year there were
25 special use permits granted and competitions held in categories: the largest crab caught, the crab with largest claw (palancú) and the most crabs trapped during the season. The goal of the yearly crabbing season is to maintain healthy populations of this protected species, allowing for a sustainable recreational harvest of land crabs and keeping a very important island tradition alive for many more generations to come.
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S OO O O O B IG I’M ..
FORTIN CONDE DE MIRASOL Museum, bookstore, and home to Vieques artifacts Wed – Sun • 8am - 4:20pm • 787.741.1717 18
RAINBOW REALTY AND VIEQUES ON NEW CARIBBEAN LIFE TV SERIES! 2 shows currently running... google for show times!
Most Experienced and Knowledgeable Brokers... with the full spectrum of listings to serve ALL Buyers and ALL Sellers! Make the call today... we ARE the best choice! The proof is in our sales record.
PLUS VACATION AND LONG TERM RENTALS! Office Hours: TUESDAY – SATURDAY 8AM-2PM AND BY APPOINTMENT OFFICE:
BEACHFRONT! Santa Maria Playa A rare find in Vieques.…the dream setting! Two Bedroom/ 1 Bath, all concrete home with large “living” porch! Very well maintained on a large lot with a seawall. Close to an estuary with iguanas and egrets…constant entertainment! JUST DOESN’T GET ANY BETTER THAN THIS!! Currently a weekly rental with a good income Plenty of room to expand, and add a pool as well. PRICED TO SELL AT $399,900 Privacy and Ocean Views just waiting your final touches. Residence just off Rte 997. Titled/$145,000
787.741.4312/5068 cell: 787.435.2063 email: rainbowvqs@gmail.com 278 Flamboyan Esperanza Gustavo Marin, Broker 787.225.5604 (Lic 9905)
2 ACRE LOTS TO BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME IN LA LLAVE Starting at $165,000 ! WOW!
Lin Wetherby, Owner Broker 787.380 4990 (Lic 7941)
www.viequesrainbowrealty.com
https://www.facebook.com/viequesrainbowrealty
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www.vieques.travel Vieques travel information guide, events & news.
facebook.com/viequestravel Over 39,900 fans on facebook. 19
Mango Project Vieques Margo Cheney teams up with students from Reach for Success
Mango Agua Francesa Mango Blanco Mango Manzano Mango Hila Mango Rosita Mango Tin Mango Alcanfor Mango Grefé Mango Cigarillo Mango Masa ..................................... Just a few of the many varieties of mangos on Vieques!
M
ango season on Vieques is an example of nature really overdoing it. Vieques has such an abundance of mangos in season that many fall from the trees and rot on the ground. The Vieques Mango Project, a yearly initiative to harvest and preserve the mangos, was initiated by Margo Cheney. She has been working with students from Reach for Success to research mangos and the proper way to dehydrate them using only the sun. They have been collecting and drying mangos and sampling their efforts –a sweet reward! The goal is to eventually sell the dried mangos throughout the year to raise funds for RFS. As a side project, the pits and peels will be composted, an initiative headed by Wilmer Reyes, a local highschool graduate, who will attend University of Puerto Rico in Utuado this fall to study horticulture. Not only are the students learning how to produce an ecological product of Vieques using only renewable energy, the sun, but they are also learning how to research information on mangos, set up a small business and market themselves. All high school students are welcome to join this project. Please call Margo at 917-455-8951 for more information. The Mango Project Vieques is also in need of volunteers to head committees for this project in all aspects such as advertising, marketing, point of sale design, scheduling, record keeping, composting, sanitation, licensing and fundraising. Check us out on facebook! Mango Project Vieques
REACH FOR SUCCESS 20
Reach for Success is a program that provides Vieques’s youth resources & opportunities to achieve educational, professional and economic success. Every year scholarships are awarded to RFS graduates. Please support the group by visiting www.reachforsucces.org
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steps to drying mangos 1. Choose mangos that
are larger, and have less fibers, or ‘stringiness’ .................................... 2. Pick mangos that are firm to the touch, they are difficult to slice when they are softer .................................... 3. Peel the mango .................................... 4. Slice the mango in thin slices. It is easiest to slice them the long way. .................................... 5. Use a dish rack, cookie rack or cake cooling rack and place the mango slices on the rack. It must be plastic or stainless steel, with spaces for air flow. .................................... 6. Place the rack of mango slices inside of a cardboard box. The rack should be lifted up off of the bottom of the boxeither with legs or by some method of keeping the rack so that it does not sit on the bottom of the box. This is for maximum air flow. .................................... 7. Secure screen material on the top of the box, to prevent insects or birds from eating the mango slices. .................................... 8. Place the box in the sun. .................................... 9. Keep the box in the sun by moving it, if needed. .................................... 1O. Turn the mango slices over after about 5 or 6 hours in the sun .................................... 11. The mango slices will shrivel and lose their moisture and turn into “fruit leather’ in about 14 or 15 hours. .................................... 12. Bring the box into the house at night so that it does not get any nighttime moisture. If it rains, bring the box out of the rain as soon as possible, then put it back out when the sun comes out again. .................................... 13. The mango slices will be chewy and sweet. They may be stored in plastic or glass jars or bags.
Bar & liquor wine Liquor beer Store cool the place where the
Open everyday 12 noon to sometime after midnight Abierto desde el mediodia hasta algun momento despues de la media noche todos los dias
locals
hang out
QUENEPA The pleasantly acid-sweet flesh of the fruit of the quenepa tree, macerated for a spell in clear rum, is the quintessential ingredient in Vieques’ official summer cocktail – bilí. Originally a native of Columbia and Venezuela, the fruit is cultivated widely throughout the Caribbean. They readily sprout from seed, and visitors can spot wild specimens growing all along our roads. It is called genip in the U.S.V.I. and in English it is often called honeyberry. The trees are dioecious – meaning there are male and female trees, like the familiar hollies up north. • The quenepa belongs to a distinguished plant family; the Sapindaceae, making it a New World cousin of the Old World’s tropical lychee, longan and rambutan. • The flowers are rich in nectar and a favorite of hummingbirds and bees. • If you are here during quenepa season, you must procure some from roadside vendors. You simply pop open the leathery green skin and put the large, jelly-covered seed in your mouth. Roll it around and suck out the juice, then discard the pit. Everybody does it – and at certain times of the year it looks like the entire populace has jaw breaker candy in their mouths. It is another true island experience.
EL S o m brero Viejo
BESt PricES
MEjOrES PrEciOS
200 vinos
BILÍ
wines
RECIPE
Behind the Post Offiice Isabel II Detras del correo en Isabel II
Compliments of Chef Eva Bolivar Bilí Restaurant INGREDIENTS: 8 cups of white rum 2 1/2 lbs. of quenepas
Bienvenidos a
1 1/2 cups of brown sugar 1/2 tsp. of vanilla
AUTHENTIC PUERTO RICAN
1 stick of cinnamon
Thursday to Tuesday 6pm - 10 pm
PROCEDURE:
Saturday & Sundays Breakfast & Lunch 10am - 3pm
Cut the quenepas open and mix with sugar and vanilla. Continue combining until the sugar dissolves. Add the rum slowly and keep mixing until you have used all of it. Taste for sweetness, and if needed, add a little more sugar. Add the cinnamon stick and put it in a bottle; cover tightly.
CUISINE
Jueves a martes 6pm - 10pm Sabados y Domingos Desayuno y Almuerzo 10am - 3pm
787.644.9325 • In Isabel II 21
The Vieques Conservation & Historical Trust is a non-profit organization committed to the protection of the unique archeological, physical and ecological environment existing on Vieques, by honoring its history, ecology and culture through education and research. It operates thanks to the efforts of dedicated volunteers and is strictly non-political in nature. Founded in 1984 and supported by members of the community and interested donors from around the world, the Trust has focused on preserving the natural balance that makes Puerto Mosquito one of the best examples of bioluminescence worldwide. The VCHT supports a broad array of educational programs for the community, with a special focus on children. To find out about the many programs the Trust offers, please visit www.vcht.org.
BIOLUMINESCENT BAY
PROACTIVE STEPS
Bioluminescent bays are magical and extremely complicated systems that require protection and continuous studies to better understand how they work and what affects them. In recent months, the Trust has been working with the DNER, USGS, the Environmental Quality Board (EQB) and the University of PR to collect data and study the bay in order to determine the cause or causes of the fluctuations in bioluminescence in the bioluminescent bays of Puerto Mosquito and Laguna Grande in Fajardo.
• To further enable the DNER to conduct proper studies of Puerto Mosquito Bay, there will be limited access to the bay for tour operators and boat owners. The Bay will be closed during the day and use by tour operators and the public will be only between 6:00 PM (18:00) and 12:00 midnight on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
MANTA Movimiento en Apoyo a Nuestros Tesoros Ambientales Movement in Support of our Environmental Treasures
WHAT’S COMING • Sediment Control and visitor’s facilities improvements for the road that goes to Puerto Mosquito Bay • Guide training for all operators
The VCHT is developing a Citizen Science program to involve the community and users of the bay in the gathering of important data and research applications that can be done in Vieques with the help of the community. The trust coordinates special educational tours to the bay for local community groups through licensed operators so that they can enjoy and understand the The VCHT has a series of advisors in its research committee that include some of the most renowned experts from Institutions and universities form Puerto Rico and the United States. We continue to facilitate and support the scientific research of Puerto Mosquito and promote a scientific tourism that could help conserve it. Find out how you can help in this crucial work to protect the Bioluminescent Bay. Call Mark Martin Bras or Lirio Marquez 787.741.8850
• The installation of a permanent monitoring station in real-time parameters of water quality, tides, chlorophyll and meteorological data. At the time of press only a final permit was needed from the Army Corps of Engineers • Dinoflagellate count study. Water samples are being analyzed at the University of Puerto Rico, Humacao Campus. The VCHT is working on acquiring resources to assure a constant monitoring of the dinoflagellates and other plankton species in the bay. • Analysis of effects of weather on dinoflagellate numbers.
This year the Manta Program provided over a hundred students the chance to learn about Mosquito Bay through interactive classroom activities, lectures from local experts and field work. TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE MANTA PROGRAM PLEASE VISIT OUR FACEBOOK PAGE VCHT MANTA
LIGHT POLLUTION INITIATIVES The VCHT is part of the working group that provided technical support to the Environmental Quality Board in order to implement a law to control light pollution. This project recently won an international award and Puerto Mosquito was chosen as a location for the development of a Night Sky Reserve. The Trust is working in a series of light pollution campaigns and wants everyone to join. 22
â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is many things at once. It is solid and perforated, enclosed and open, private and public, urban and rural, rational and organic.â&#x20AC;? - Nataniel FĂşster
23
Written by: Cynthia Nicholson Photographs by: Simon Chaput and Dianne Pulliza
“El Blok is not the typical hotel escape in an unrealistic LaLa land. Its enchantment is all about the beauty of some aspects of the local and everyday life. In a way, the life of a hotel is analogous to our life on the planet. It is short and temporary, therefore the possibility of an escape in such a place is through a space that allows us to meditate about our present voyage in life.”
24
At
first glance, one is immediately struck by the commanding concrete design of El Blok. The new 22 room modernist hotel with its striking lattice façade is an exciting addition to the lush landscape of the island of Vieques. As your eye moves over the sensuous lines of the structure, reminiscent of a gentle wave, you may wonder how the choice was made to build something so profoundly “different” here. According to co-owner and President Simon Baeyertz, it all started years ago with a picture he saw in the magazine Wallpaper* of a house designed by San Juan architect Nataniel Fúster. He was intrigued by Fuster’s use of light and shadow, his interest in sustainability and his brand of tropical modernism. With only a little over an acre of land to work with, Fúster’s design ultimately is a model of efficiency, economy and ecology. “The need for energy efficiency fosters design with the use of elements found in the tropical environment,” Baeyertz points out. For instance, the corner location and the placement of a central atrium within the building captures the steady breezes from the trade winds and eliminates the need for air conditioning within the pub-
lic spaces. Bright sunlight, too, is used to illuminate the interior but softened by the brise soleil* punctured panels surrounding the exterior. The impeccable attention to detail has been a major part of Baeyertz’s job as the interior of the hotel and its operational plan come together. A considerable amount of the furniture in the rooms and restaurant were crafted from indigenous hardwoods from the central mountains of Puerto Rico near Ciales. The resplendent native wood brings organic warmth to the spare interior spaces. These were fashioned by a fourth generation family of artisans, Muebles Villabos. The multi-hued isleño tiles were custom made in the Dominican Republic and reflect the colors of the Caribbean in luminous blues and greens. But probably the most detail-driven and impressive element of the design of El Blok and its connection to its location is the U.S. Green Building Councils’ Gold Award LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification for sustainability in design, construction and operation. Some of the most important features are the use of a custom designed, chilled-water HVAC system, the use of advanced Solarban 100 glass openings to prevent solar heat and heat transfer, and a rain water collection system on the roof terrace for use in public area bathrooms.
NATANIEL FÚSTER
MODERNIST ICON
www.epanderson.com
The boutique hotel’s 60-seat restaurant will be headed by FOOD & WINE Top New Chef for 2013, José Enrique. His restaurant (by the same name) located in Santurce, is one of the most sought after spots for dining in the metropolitan area of San Juan. He is known for his überfresh, locally sourced ingredients that elevate Latin cuisine to lofty new heights. The 40-seat bar will not only
be serving signature tropical cocktails, food will be available there for patrons as well. The simple seasonal menu featuring fresh seafood and steaks will be prepared on a woodfired grill and a grand gas-fired rotisserie. Baeyertz adds, “The restaurant and bar is the heart of the hotel and with José Enrique at the helm, it will be an important new destination in Vieques.”
Brise-soleil:
meaning “sun breaker” in French, in architecture refers to a variety of sun shading structures outside the windows or extending over the entire surface of a building’s façade. Examples range from patterned concrete walls, lattices, and pierced screens to reduce the effects of the sun’s glare.
Pilotis:
or piers, are supports such as columns, pillars, or stilts that lift a building above ground or water. Beyond their support function the pilotis raise the architectural volume, lighten it and free a space for circulation under the construction. They refine a building’s connectivity with the land by allowing for parking, garden or a driveway below while allowing a sense of floating and lightness in the architecture itself. In hurricane-prone areas, pilotis may be used to raise the space of a building above storm surge levels.
Free Plan:
The free plan, as it relates to architecture, refers to an open plan with non load-bearing walls dividing interior space. The building system carries only its columns, or skeleton, and each corresponding ceiling. Free plan allows for the ability to create buildings without being limited by the placement of walls for structural support, and enables the architect to have the freedom to design the outside and inside façade without compromise.
Nataniel Fúster, the architect behind the iconic El Blok received his professional degree and a Master in Urban Design from the University of Puerto Rico. His doctorial thesis for his Doctor of Design degree from Harvard University was “The Tropicalization of International Style.” This in part expands on why designers in hot climates incorporat modern architectural themes like the free-plan, brise soleils, and the use of pilotis and roof gardens. The work of the “father of Puerto Rican modernist architecture”, Henry Klumb, as well as the work of Osvaldo Toro, is an inspiration for Fúster. “For me,” he says, “one of the greatest strengths of their work is the elegance with which they transformed a modernist influence into our local climatic and cultural context. Their work was international as well as local. I believe these issues are very relevant today.” When asked about the creative process of the genesis of El Blok, Fúster replied, “My initial ideas about the project where related to the coral reef. I thought that it could be like a block of coral reef out of the water. Like a reef itself, the project is difficult to define. It is many things at once. It is solid and perforated, enclosed and open, private and public, urban and rural, rational and organic. Simon Baeyertz came up with the name ‘El Blok.’ It is very appropriate and with a considerable degree of rawness and directness that I appreciate.” Nataniel Fúster’s work has been published in The Phaidon Atlas of the 21st Century Architecture, The New York Times, Architectural Review, DWELL, and Wallpaper* magazine. See more examples of his work at www.fusterarchitects.com 25
SOUTH SHORE BEACHES
very careful where you step when you are in the grassy area and kids should wear their shoes down to the sand (or water’s edge). Note: Only park in the parking lot, and not in the cul-de-sac at the very end, to PUBLIC BEACHES*-GATE $2 avoid fines. ........................................................ PLAYUELA* From 997, turn into the FWS Refuge at the Sol Food truck. Go aprox 2 miles to the brown sign for Caracas. Turn right and go aprox 1 mile to brown sign for Playuela and Tres Palmitas. Turn right Arturo Rodriguez and drive 2 minutes to the sign and take the walking path to the left to SUNBAY* Accessible by the get to the beach. A short walk and gated entrance off 997, Sunbay is a you’re there! one mile stretch of beach. Sunbay is ........................................................ has lifeguards and bathhouse. The entrance is 5 miles from Isabel II and PATA PRIETA* From 997, turn 0.7 miles from Esperanza (the Maleinto the FWS Refuge at the Sol Food con). There is a $2 entrance fee. truck and go aprox 2 miles. Pass turn to Caracas and continue straight on ........................................................ dirt road for aprox 1 mile and turn MEDIA LUNA* Enter the gated right at Pata Prieta sign. After 0.2 entrance off 997. Follow the dirt road miles, follow the road to the right to at the end of Sunbay and travel 0.6 a small parking area with sign. Walk more miles to Media Luna. Great down the (slippery) gravel path to the for small children, Media Luna is ........................................................ left of the sign to the beach. Rough shallow. You can walk 30 ft out into road so 4wd is recommended. Bring PLAYA GRANDE Leave Esperthe water and still be in waist deep a beach umbrella as there is little anza on 996 going west and come to water. Also, for a free “spa experishade! a T (rt. 201). Take a left. Go 1 mile to ence,” enjoy an exfoliation from the where the road dead ends and take a ........................................................ silky, fine sand. left. Follow road to the bottom of the ........................................................ hill. Take a right onto dirt road to find LA CHIVA* entrances numbered a beach spot. Great beach for walking. 1-21 CLOSED FOR 3-6 MONTHS NAVIO* Follow directions to From 997, turn into the FWS Refuge Media Luna but pass Media Luna and Playa Grande is a turtle nesting beach at the Sol Food truck and go aprox take a left at the sign and go another so be sure to keep dogs on a leash 2 miles to the end of the paved and watch out for roped off nests. 0.3 miles. The road is extremely road. Pass the sign for Caracas and rough and 4wd is required but you ........................................................ continue straight on the dirt road. can also park at Media Luna and La Chiva has numbered spots #1-21 BEACHES ON THE VIEQUES walk to Navío. Go into the cave on FISH AND WILDLIFE REFUGE* so explore to find your favorite. At the left side of the beach (if facing marker #15 the road splits so stay For reference, Sol Food is parked right in the water) for an excellent photo right if you want to explore La Chiva front of the entrance to the FWS Refuge spot! There’s good surf so bring your spots #16-21. ........................................................ boogie board! ................................ CARACAS* From 997, turn into ........................................................ LA PLATA* CLOSED FOR 3-6 the FWS Refuge at the Sol Food MONTHS Follow directions to La truck. Go aprox 2 miles to a sign for Caracas. Turn right and go aprox 1.5 Chiva but when road splits take left more miles. No shade except for pic- and go 0.5 miles to reach nic gazebos in the grass area. Watch La Plata. out for the sandburs! (see below). Be ........................................................ ESPERANZA BEACH To the east and west of the fishing piers in Esperanza. ........................................................ PLAYA NEGRA (BLACK SAND BEACH) Leave Esperanza on 996 going west. Come to T (201) and take left. Drive 0.1 mile and there will be a guard rail and small pull off on your left. Park here. [It is easier to turn around if you drive 100 feet more to Gallery Galleon and turn around in drive just past entrance to Gallery.] Walk down the path to the dried stream bed and follow to the right.It is about a 20 minute walk to the beach. If it has rained, stream bed will actually be a small stream. Bring bug spray and water.
Watch out! for the Coast Sandbur - Cencrus incertus - very prevelant at Caracas and Pata Prieta and painful to step on. Tea made from the leaves has been prescribed for home use in kidney trouble, fever, colds and vomiting. 26
NORTH SHORE BEACHES SEA GLASS BEACH Drive into Isabel II on 200 and make a left onto main street (Calle Muñoz Rivera). Almost at the end of the street you will see an intersection with a church on your right. Make a left here and at the next intersection make a right. Park on the street (not in the yellow!) and walk to the left of the gazebo down a path to the beach. ........................................................ LA CHATA Drive by the ferry on your left and go up the steep hill to the right of El Yaté Bar. Go by the lighthouse on your left and take the next right down a steep little hill. Curve to your left and follow along this shoreline road. Pass La Lanchita on left and drive aproximately 0.35 miles to a left turn onta a small dirt drive with two palms and large rocks at the end. La Chata! Keep your eyes open for sea glass. Many people come here to exercise their horse. Don’t be surprised if you are swimming with horses! ........................................................ EL GALLITO Pass the W on 200 going west and look for a parking area and short peninsula on your right. The beach is on the right. Great place to be at sunset! Excellent photo spot! ........................... EL PARQUE CEIBA Go west on 201 aproximately 1 mile past the airport and follow the sharp curve to the right.Go down a small hill and the Ceiba tree is on your right. Enjoy
the Ceiba tree without climbing, marking or damaging the roots. ................................. ROMPEOLAS Follow directions to the Ceiba tree but pass the Ceiba and continue on the main road to the left.Take the next right at the empty concrete structure with parking lot and this road will take you to the pier. Rompeolas pier is 1 mile long so it is great for beginning joggers or walkers! Great snorkeling on the left side of the pier. ........................................................ BLAYDIN BEACH OR MOSQUITO BEACH Follow directions to the pier but right before going out onto the pier there is a small sandy road to the left that leads to a shallow beach. There are lots of starfish here so be very careful where you step! ........................................................ PUNTA ARENAS Follow directions to Rompeolas but go past turn for pier and drive aproximately 2 miles. You will come to a sign that says you are entering FWS Refuge. Drive 1 mile and come to a T / there are spots to the left and to the right with the best snorkeling to your left. Much of Punta Arenas has eroded away so, in many places, there is not a beach to sit on until further down on the right. No-see-ums tend to come out in the afternoon so make it a morning excursion and bring your bug spray! ........................................................ BUNKERS To see the hidden Navy bunkers follow directions to Rompeolas but keep straight past the turn for pier. Drive 2 miles and take the second paved road to the left. This road is a short loop that will bring you back to the same road.
LA CHIVA CLOSED FOR APROX. 6 MONTHS The Navy found Unexploded Ordinace (UXO) in the interior areas of La Chiva, La Chiva Key (Cayo La Chiva) and the water surrounding the key. They recognize the economic and tourist importance of this beach and will utilize all contracted personnel to do a time-critical removal of the UXO items in that area. The area will be closed to the public right after entrance #1 (that is the entrance to the concrete pier area, also known as Pirate’s Cove or el Tanque). This will effectively close the access to Escondida Beach, La Plata Beach and to La Platita, the natural boat ramp for Ensenada Honda Bay. Their work began on May 19 and will take between 3 to 6 months. Call 787.741.4792 for more info.
FWS REFUGE
20,000 ACRES Vieques Fish and Wildlife Refuge is the second largest natural protection and conservation area in all of Puerto Rico. The Refuge is open year round. Gates are locked at closing time so make sure you pay attention to hours as they change twice yearly.
April 1 - September 30 6 AM - 7:30 PM October 1 - March 31 6 AM - 6:30 PM
Pata Prieta means “black foot.” The beach was named when locals found a small herd of cows drowned after a storm, with their “black feet” sticking out of the water.
27
Helen Davis broker / owner lic. #11424
Se habla Español
Island Real Estate Spectacular Views New on the market. Los Frutales is a move in ready, furnished three bedroom, two bath home on an acre lot in Monte Santo. Beautifully remodeled. Off-road gated parking area, swimming pool, and private walled back yard landscaped with tropical plants and the fruit trees. The open floor plan main level has two bedrooms and a bathroom, beautifully furnished living areas, a brand new kitchen and custom doors, window shutters and cabinetry. The lower floor has an additional bedroom, a living room and a bathroom. The icing on the cake is the roof top deck with a romantic dining area, perfect to enjoy the panoramic Atlantic views and for stargazing Titled. $645,000 Desirable Beachfront Property in La Hueca. Approximately six acres with 2 concrete and block buildings. The larger building has a 3 bedroom apartment on the upper level. The unfinished ground floor could be a 2 or 3 bedroom unit or a commercial space. The smaller building is a 3 bedroom cottage which has been offered as vacation rental in the past (Casita Isla Nena). Tremendous potential and motivated sellers. Titled. $895,000
underwater portraits www.photosvieques.com jenteeter@hotmail.com • 787.469.3337
Vieques Flowers & The little
First Time on the market Spacious PRAA house with a Private Pool. Formerly a popular restaurant, La Colina was converted many years ago to a large 3 bedrooms, 2 bath home on a breezy 2 acre hillside in very desirable Destino. As comfortable as the spacious open floor plan living & dining area which adjoins the kitchen are, you will spend all your time in the ample outdoor living room. Structurally solid, the house could benefit from some updates but is offered furnished and move in ready. The 20 X 40 private pool is surrounded by lush tropical plants and fruit trees and extensive stone work and romantic outdoor spaces. Ocean views from the pool and the veranda. Close to everything. Titled. $350,000
Gifts
store with a lot of stuff
Beach SupplieS havianaS local art & craftS viequeS SouvenierS clothing men’S and women’S SwimSuitS and much more!
On the malecOn in esperanza 787.741.4197 www.viequesgiftsandflOwers.cOm 28
If
FLAMBOYANT
TiCaToVe
you are fortunate enough to be on Vieques during the Flamboyant blooming season, generally June through September, you will know where the tree gets its name. Delonix regia, also known as the Royal Poinciana, is endemic to Madagascar and is endangered in the wild but widely cultivated elsewhere for its ornamental value and much loved in Puerto Rico and Vieques. The flamboyant display of vivid red, orange or yellow flowers against dark green fern-like leaves make it a striking sight. Locals call it “El Arbol que negó su flor a Mayo”, because it usually doesn’t flower until June. Its flowers are often used to decorate floats for the patronales parade in July.
Tinglar (Leatherback) Carey (Hawksbill ) Tortuga Verde (Green Turtle) Ticatove focuses on research and preservation of sea turtles and is looking for volunteers to perform a variety of jobs, all related to conservation of Vieques natural resources. If you are interested, please contact us on our facebook page or via email ticatovevieques@yahoo.com.
Ticatove Visitor Center/Gift Shop is located at the 303 building on Vieques National Wildlife Refuge. Please visit us on Saturday and Sundays from 10am to 2pm.
Vieques is an ideal nesting site for leatherback, hawksbill and green sea turtles. Please help ensure the survival of endangered sea turtles and their young by being aware of beach activity that can put them in peril.
8
ways that you can help
Please do not make structures or huts with palm fronds on the beach Only camp on beaches where permitted.
Please don’t litter. Take all trash and recyclables with you. Don’t ride horses on the beach that or known nesting sites.
Please do not dig holes in the sand on the beach. Baby turtles can become trapped in these holes on their way to the ocean. No campfires allowed.
Please keep your dogs on a leash at all times. If you see a turtle or turtle nest being disturbed please report it immediatly to FWS. 29
moments shared
Puppy Love Submitted by: Adora Negrón
I don’t know if its because I’m used to seeing the sun set behind houses or tall buildings for so many years, but I will never get tired of watching a sunset in Vieques. It’s as if, as it departs, the sun grants us a final moment to reflect and come to peace with whatever has happened during the day. Like many other evenings at Sunbay, my girls enjoy their final runs, jumps and even slides of the day. Most of these evening visits to the beach are unplanned and spontaneous, either by the girls’ request for some fresh air and to see the sun go down, or just for us parents who need a little breather, as we all do at some point. The “posita” (tide pool) as we call it, always has surprises and interesting things to discover. I call it their science class. So while the picture may not be the best quality or taken by a pro – just the cellphone I had in my pocket at that moment – it captured that moment that I always want to remember. A moment that I can look back on when they’ve grown –when they’ve grown too old to run on the beach with a stuffed puppy. Please visit www.viequesinsider.com and share your Vieques moments and photos with us.
Meet Adora Negrón, a Humane Education Program teacher who is working with the organization JUNTOS (Together). JUNTOS has brought privately funded classes into the Vieques school system teaching the humane treatment of animals. Every child in every grade will receive training through this program. The long term goal of JUNTOS is to see that humane education becomes a permanent part of the school curriculum, a much needed step to break the cycle of violence and prevent animal cruelty. For more information visit www.viequeshumanesociety.org/JUNTOS
30
NUTS FOR
COCONUTS!
231-352-6213 www.EllieHarold.com
HOW TO OPEN A COCONUT IN
154 EASY
Ellie
Harold
STEPS. v
OR v
Vieques Oil Landscapes
REMACHE Coconut water is the opaque liquid that comes straight from the inside of a young (unripened) coconut. It is used mostly as a refreshing, nutritious beverage. There are several roadside stands whose owners, with a flourish, will remove the top of a green coconut with a machete for you and give you a straw to use to drink the water. True local performance art! Here on Vieques, coconut water is mixed with other herbs in home remedies to combat kidney pain and inflammation, indigestion, constipation and lung congestion. Although the coconut palm is a prime photo subject for Vieques’ tourists, it is actually native to Southeast Asia and the Western Pacific. --------------------------------------------------------------Coconut water is naturally fat free, has more potassium than four bananas, and has fewer calories, less sodium, and more potassium than a sports drink. And it is super hydrating.
HOW TO OPEN A COCONUT IN
2
EASY STEPS 1. FIND REMACHE 2. ASK FOR A COCONUT
c
sin or sans? c
WITH OR WITHOUT ALCOHOL? Unique Gifts Beach Hats beach cover Ups local art funny cards Jewelry Island clothing Home Décor
Beehive
The store with your style! Isabel II • look for More Info on facebook • 787.741.3192 31
ON THE
VIEQUES BUSINESS DIRECTORY
WATER .......................... BIO BAY / NIGHT TOURS JAK Water Sports 787-644-7112 FISHING CHARTERS Fin Time Adventures 787-981-4109
ACCOMODATIONS Blue Horizon Boutique Resort 787-741-3318 Casa de Amistad 787-741-3758 Casa Colores 413-548-8053 Casa La Lanchita 787-741-8449 El Blok 787-741-6020 Flamboyan Guesthouse 340-642-5883 / 787-741-9090 Hacienda Tamarindo 787-362-3324 / 787-741-8525 Hectors by the Sea 787-741-1178 Hix Island House 787-741-2302 Malecon House 787-741-0663 Sea Gate Hotel 787-741-4661 Hilltop Retreat Apartment 917-553-6595 Trade Winds 787-741-8666 Villa Coral 787-741-1967 W Vieques 787-741-4100 AIRLINES Air Flamenco Air Sunshine Cape Air Isla Nena M&N Aviation Seaborne Airlines Vieques Air Link
787-741-8811 787-741-7900 800-352-0714 787-741-1577 787-791-7090 877-772-1005 787-741-8331
ART GALLERIES Ellie Harold 231-352-6213 Fuerte Conde Mirasol 787-741-1717 Siddhia Hutchinson Gallery 787-741-1343 Vieques Historical & Conservation Trust 787-741-8850 CAR RENTAL Avis Ceiba 787-885-0505 / VQS 787-741-0284 Maritza’s 787-741-0078 / airport 0700 Vieques Car Rental 787-741-1037 CATERERS Beverly Davenport-Chef Coqui Fire Green Man Baked Goods Chef Eva Bolívar
215-313-1241 787-741-0401 787-435-6822 787-402-0357
CONSTRUCTION Architecto, Stanley Hutchinson EDK Design Services M&M of Vieques Navarro Construction Paul Lutton, Arquitecto Vieques Locksmith
787-556-5537 787-435-3548 787-741-2577 787-741-2577 787-477-7684 787-564-5120
FITNESS Sweat Fitness W
787-741-4100
FLOWERS Flores 202-276-8601 HORSEBACK RIDING Esperanza Riding Sea Gate Hotel Taxi Horses
787-435-0073 787-741-4661 787-206-0122
LIQUOR STORE El Sombrero Viejo (Liquor)
787-741-2416
LAND MANAGEMENT Ean Egas Tree Removal
518-506-1374
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LOCKSMITHS Marc Weems Locksmith
787-564-5120
MASSAGE Away Spa (W) Blue Hoku (Maureen) Vieques Massage Ingrid Bergman
787-741-7021 787-556-5025 787-435-1313
MUSEUMS Forte Conde Mirasol 787-741-1717 Vieques Historical & Conservation Trust 787-741-8850 PET CARE & SERVICES Pampered Pets (grooming) 787-741-0639 Vieques Humane Society 787-741-0209 PHOTOGRAPHY Jennifer Teeter
787-469-3337
PUBLICATIONS / MARKETING Imprenta Adonai 787-741-2856 Vieques Insider Magazine 787.435.3172 Vieques.Travel 212-462-2900 REAL ESTATE Bravos Boyz Island Real Estate Rainbow Realty Vieques Fine Properties Vieques Realty & Rentals
787-741-1463 787-741-7001 787-741-4312 787-741-3298 787-741-0330
RESTAURANTS & BARS Awesome Yogurt & Fruits 787-517-1061 Belly Buttons 787-741-3336 Biekes Bistro 787-741-6381 Bilí 787-741-1382 Carambola 787-741-3318 Conuco 787-741-2500 Coquí Fire 787-741-0401 El Sombrero Viejo 787-741-2416 José Enrique @ El Blok 787-741-6020 La Zafra 787-644-9325 Mar Azul 787-741-3400 Next Course 787-741-1028 Pescaderia/Fish Market 787-349-8660 Roys Internet Café 787-741-0685 Sorcé W 787-741-7022 Trade Winds 787-741-8666 W Café 787-741-7056 SHOPPING / TIENDAS Funky Beehive 787-741-3192 Malecon House Boutique 787-741-0663 Toda La Casa 787-236-7224 Trade Winds Gift Shop 787-741-8666 VCHT Gift Shop 787-741-8850 Vieques Flowers and Gifts 787-741-4197 SPA/SALON W Retreat and Spa
787-741-7021
WEDDING PLANNERS Bodas Weddings
202-276-8601
YOGA Blu Hoku
787-556-5025
PADDLEBOARDING JAK Water Sports 787-644-7112 Vieques Paddleboarding 787-366.5202 SAILING / CHARTERS AHOY Vieques 939-332-5778 Caribbean Lady 787-930-5610 / 5611 Fin Time Adventures 787-981-4109 LittleBoat Sailing 787.366.5202 Vieques Classic Charter 787-467-3447 SCUBA Isla Nena Scuba
787-718-7607
PUBLICOS/TAXIS Alba Melendez 787-206-0456 Ana Robles 787-514-9597 Angie Chauffeur 787-455-4596 Carlos & Denisse 787-447-8697 Edna Robles 787-630-4673 Henry 787-649-3838 Jose Morales 787-435-4277 Josue 787-249-6165 Juanito 787-645-2329 Julio 787-579-1141 Luis Gonzalez 787-435-3805 Sharron 787-944-4569 Tours & Transportation 787-397-2048 Vieques Taxi 787-741-TAXI 8294 MEDICAL SERVICES / PHARMACIES ASSMCA 787-741-4767 Behavioral Health Care 888-440-8787 Centro Quiropráctico 787-741-0414 Consejería Psicológica 787-547-9467 Dra- Daphne Torres (Dentista) 787-741-1916 Farmacia San Antonio 787-741-8397 Dr- Jose Figueroa 787-741-2222 Dra- Fanny Garraton (dentist) 787-741-8765 Dentist Juan R- Gonzalez 787-318-7376 Sheila Levin (Counseling) 787-741-3298 Dr- Luis Rivera 787-741-0738 SERVICES
Alcoholics Anon Humane Society Baby Item Rentals
787-741-0639 787-741-0209 787-435-2465
MISCELLANEOUS Alcoholics Anonymous 787-741-0639 Pescaderia Angelyz 787-918-0559 / 787-428-5182 Vieques Gas 787-741-2551 EMERGENCY Ambulance 787-741-1616 City Hall/Alcaldía 787-741-5000 Emergency 911 Fire Dept 787-741-2111 Police 787-741-2020 Sun Bay 787-741-8198 US Fish and Wildlife Office 787-741-2138 Recycling Office 787.741.5000
To download a pdf of the island business phone directory please visit http://viequesinsider.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/PHONE-DIRECTORY.pdf
AIR FLAMENCO
Reservations: 787.724.1105 • 787.742.1818 Vieques: 787.741.8811 • 787.741.4121 toll free: 877.535.2636 www.airflamenco.net ISLA GRANDE (SIG) TO VIEQUES (VQS) 8:00AM 8:25AM Daily 1:00 PM 1:25PM Daily VIEQUES (VQS) TO ISLA GRAND (SIG) Departure Arrival Frequency 11:45 AM 12:10 PM Daily 5:30 PM 5:55 PM Daily VIEQUES TO CEIBA Departure Arrival Frequency 8:00 AM 8:15AM Daily 9:00AM 9:15 AM Daily 11:50 AM 12:05 PM Daily 2:30 PM 2:45 PM Daily 3:30 PM 3:45 PM Daily 5:30 PM 5:45 PM Daily CEIBA TO VIEQUES Departure Arrival Frequency 7:30 AM 7:45 AM Daily 8:30 AM 8:45 AM Daily 11:00 AM 11:15 AM Daily 3:00 PM 3:15 PM Daily 4:00 PM 4:15 PM Daily 5:00 PM 5:15 PM Daily
CAPE AIR
800.227.3247 • 787.741.7734 www.capeair.com SAN JUAN TO VIEQUES Departure Arrival Frequency 9:20 AM 9:46AM Daily 10:55 AM 11:21AM Daily 1:00 PM 1:26PM Daily 2:25 PM 2:51PM Daily 3:05 PM 3.31PM Daily 4:05 PM 4:31PM Daily 5:50 PM 6:16PM Daily 7:34 PM 8:00PM Daily VIEQUES TO SAN JUAN Departure Arrival Frequency 8:30AM 8:53AM Daily 10:06AM 10:29AM Daily 11:41AM 12:04PM Daily 1:46PM 2:09PM Daily 3:11PM 3:33PM Daily 3:51PM 4:14PM Daily 4:46PM 5:09PM Daily 5:11PM 5:34PM Daily 6:36PM 6:59PM Daily .............................................
M & N AVIATION
787-791-7090 Charters to North, South and Central America, Canada and the Continental United States.
VIEQUES TO CULEBRA Departure Arrival Frequency 9:00 AM 9:30 AM Daily 4:30 AM 5 PM Daily .............................................
.............................................
AIR SUNSHINE
SAN JUAN TO VIEQUES Departure Arrival Thurs -Tues 1:30 PM 2:00 PM Thurs -Tues
VIEQUES TO SAN JUAN INTL Departure Arrival Frequency 11:30 AM 11:55 AM Daily 2:30 PM 2:55 PM Daily VIEQUES ST. THOMAS 10:00 AM 10:15 AM Daily 5:15 PM 5:30 PM Daily
VIEQUES TO SAN JUAN Departure Arrival Frequency 2:15PM 2:45PM Daily flights except Wednesdays
787.741.7900 • 800.327.8900 888.879.8900 • www.airsunshine.com
SAN JUAN INTL VIEQUES 11:00 AM 11:255 AM Daily 2 PM 2:25 PM Daily 4:00 PM 4:25 PM O n Demand ST. CROIX / ST. THOMAS VIEQUES Private Charter Vieques to: Tortola and Virgin Gorda
SEABORNE AIRLINES 866.359.8784 www.seaborneairlines.com
Ferry schedules change often. Please call or visit the ticket window during operating hours to confirm departure and arrival times. Do not rely on this schedule to make a connecting flight as the ferry times can change daily depending on boats or weather. CARGO FERRY
PASSENGER FERRY EVERYDAY
VIEQUES FERRY TERMINAL
787.494.0934
ext. 2727, 2728, 2729
787.497.7740 ext. 0
Vieques to Fajardo: 6:30 AM 11:00 AM 3:00 PM 6:00 PM Fajardo to Vieques: 9:30 AM 1:00PM 4:30 PM 8:00 PM
MONDAY-TUES-THURS Vieques to Fajardo: 6:00 AM 1:00 PM 6:00 PM Fajardo to Vieques: 4:00 AM 6:00 PM WED.& FRI. Vieques- Fajardo 6:00 am 11:00 am 4:00 pm Fajardo-Vieques 4:00 am 9:30 pm 4:00 pm
VIEQUES AIR LINK
787.741.8331 • 888.901.9247 VIEQUES Departure 9:30 AM 1:30 PM 4:40 PM
SAN JUAN Arrival Frequency 10:00AM Daily 2:00PM Daily 5:00PM Daily
SAN JUAN VIEQUES Departure Arrival Frequency 12:45PM 1:15PM Daily 2:45PM 3:15PM Daily 5:30PM 6:00PM Daily VIEQUES ISLA GRANDE Departure Arrival Frequency 7:30AM 8:00AM Mon-Fri 9:30AM 10:30AM Daily 12:00PM 12:30PM Mon-Sat 2:00PM 2:30PM Daily 4:30PM 5:00PM Daily 5:45PM 6:15PM Daily ISLA GRANDE VIEQUES Departure Arrival Frequency 6:15AM 6:45AM Mon-Fri 8:30AM 9:00AM Daily 11:15Am 11:45AM Daily 1:00PM 1:30PM Mon-Sat 2:45PM 3:15PM Daily 5:15PM 5:45PM Daily VIEQUES Departure 7:00Am 8:15AM 9:15AM 12:00PM 2:30PM 3:30PM 5:00PM 6:00PM
CEIBA Arrival Frequency 7:10AM Daily 8:25AM Daily 9:25AM Daily 12:10Pm Daily 2:40Pm Daily 3:40Pm Daily 5:10PM Daily 6:10PM Daily
CEIBA Departure 6:15AM 7:30AM 9:00AM 9:45AM 11:30AM 1:00PM 3:00Pm 4:00PM 5:30PM
VIEQUES Arrival Frequency 6:25AM Mon-Sat 7:40AM Daily 9:10AM Mon-Sat 9:55AM Daily 11:40AM Mon-Sat 1:10PM Daily 3:10PM Daily 4:10PM Daily 5:40PM Daily
Charters Available St Thomas • St Croix • Tortola • Virgen Gorda • St Marteen • St Kitts Please visit www.viequesairlink.com Toll free:Mon-Sat. Closed Sundays 1 888 901 9247 787 741-8331 Email: contact@valairline.com
ules all sched ct are subje e to chang !
33
Recycling Drop-Off Locations NEW OFFICE AND DROP OFF -WEST END Follow 200 going West. After you pass the pier take your first left before the large field across from Milivy Church. (If you get to the church you have gone too far.) / Drive 0.25 miles and look for signs for the recycling office on the left. Esperanza Vieques Conservation and Historical Trust is across from the Malecon and next to Duffy’s Restaurant. The recycling containers are in front yard. Barrio Florida Driving west on 200 toward airport, take a left onto 201. Take the first right into the AAA Office. The recycling containers are at the end on the left. MATERIALS RECYCLED: PLASTIC – bottles, jugs,
and jars marked 1 or 2, any plastic containter with the chasing arrow symbol, all beverage containers labeled “CA Redemption Value” or “CA Cash Refund” CARDBOARD – DRY flattened boxes, stack PAPER – virtually all clean
and dry paper
ALUMINUM – cans /steel
cans / aluminum foil
NOW RECYCLING GLASS!
for use in art projects by Penelope Cuyar Reciclarte For more information about the Recycling Program on Vieques or how to volunteer, call Gladys Velazquez 787.741.5000 ext. 2351 or email reciclaje.gmv@gmail.com Volunteers are needed to help “green” Vieques! Don’t forget the next coastal cleanup initiated by BlackBeard Sports is September 20th. 34
WEEKLY EVENTS EVERY DAY Sunset Happy Hour, Mar Azul, 5-7pm ................................................... TU ESDAY $12.99 Dinners at Mar Azul, 5-9pm W ED NESDAY Paella night w/Waldo, Belly Buttons 6-9pm, reservations requested 787.741.3336 Seafood Gala, fry and broil at Tradewinds Restaurant, 5:309:30pm ................................................... LAST WED OF EACH MONTH Monthly birthday party at El Sombrero Viejo, 7pm ................................................... TH U RSDAY Game Night at El Sombrero Viejo, 7pm ...................................................
CALENDAR EVENTS S UN DAY Paella Special at Tradewinds
Brunch, La Zafra, 10am - 3pm ...................................................
F UL L M OO N DR UM C I R C L E Sunbay, no experience necessary. Bring a percussion instrument and chair, 5:30pm til sunrise! JULY 12 • AUG 10 • SEP 8 • OCT 8 • NOV 6 • DEC 6 ...................................................
FA R M E R ’S M A R KE T TUES, WED, AND FRI 8am4pm on Route 201 intersecting with Route 200 ...................................................
J ULY 1 6 -2 0 Patronales, music and festival in the plaza, Isabel II ...................................................
YO GA TUES-SUN Vinasa Yoga w/ Jennifer, at Hix Island House’s Yoga Pavillion, 9:30am
AUG 23 Taste of the Islands Extravaganza, 6pm W Retreat & Spa, Proceeds benefit Reach for Success, tickets $150 * $100 for VQS residents ...................................................
Pasta Nights,Blue Moon Bar at Blue Horizon Boutique Resort, 1pm - 9pm
EVERYDAY at W, 8:15 am Sunbay 787 435-7510 10am (varies so call ahead to confirm) ................................................... ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS –
F R I DAY Lobster Specials at Tradewinds, 787 741-8666
MON & TUES. Esperanza VCHT, Open Meeting, 5:30PM
Live Music & Open Jam, Mar Azul 9pm-1am,
WED. Behind Catholic church in Isabell II Friends and Family, 9AM • 6PM Open Meeting
Pizza Nights, Blue Moon Bar at Blue Horizon Boutique Resort, 4-10pm
THURS. Playa Gallito, Open Meeting, 8:30 am
Karaoke, Mar Azul 9pm-1:30am
FRI. Behind Catholic church in Isabell II, Open Meeting, 9am
BBQ Night, Belly Buttons 5-9pm
SAT. Open Meeting, 10:30am
Brunch, Biekes Bistro 7:30am2pm ...................................................
SUN. Behind Catholic church in Isabell II Open Meeting, 10:30am ...................................................
SATU R DAY Pizza Nights- Blue Moon Bar at Blue Horizon Boutique Resort, 4-10pm
S E PT 2 0 Coastal Cleanup, Call BlackBeards for more information, 787.741.1892 ................................................... T HA N KS G I V I N G , N OV 2 7 Carambola-$35, live music, 4pm, 6pm & 8pm seatings, ................................................... N OV 2 8 T H Season Opening Gallery Galleon, Sandra Solo & more local food & music, 5:30-7:30pm ................................................... N OV 2 9 T H Garrett Cook Opening Reception Siddhia Hutchinson Gallery, 6-8pm 787.741.1343
Karaoke at Mar Azul, 10pm BBQ Night, Belly Buttons, 5-9pm Brunch, La Zafra, 10am - 3pm Brunch, Biekes Bistro 7:30am2pm ...................................................
Please visit www.viequesinsider.com for up to date events happening throughout the year.
SOME AIRLINES CHARGE $1 PER POUND FOR LUGGAGE OVER 25 POUNDS
TAKE A SWEATER ON THE FERRY!
P R O G R A M AC I Ó N R E G U L A R REGULAR PROGRAMMING LUNES A VIERNES 6AM • Amanecer típico viequense (música típica puertorriqueña / colaboración de Radio Centro, Lancaster PA con RV) 7-9 AM • Las voces del este 9-9.30 AM (LUNES – JUEVES) • Viento en popa (salud mental) 9-10AM VIERNES • TRIBUTO...Programa musical especial producido por Benjamín Muñiz para RV 9.30 AM -12 PM • música caribeña/Puertorriqueña CADA DOS MIÉRCOLES: 12 MEDIO DÍA • Instituto de Cultura Puertorriqueña en Radio Vieques 12-3 PM • música latinoamericana 3-5 PM• World Music (música del mundo) 5-7 PM • Retransmisión programa LVE 7PM (LUNES – JUEVES) • Viento en popa 7PM VIERNES • Tributo 7.30 PM • Informe Pacífica: info. latinoamericana producido en LA por Pacifica Radio 8-9 PM • Democracy Now en inglés Música por toda la noche SÁBADO Y DOMINGO 9AM • Amanecer típico 10AM • retransmission programa Las voces del este SÁBADO 7PM • Tributo DOMINGO 12 MEDIO DÍA: Tributo
MONDAY –FRIDAY 6 AM • Traditional Vieques Sunrise (Traditional Puerto Rican music / Collaboration with Radio Center, Lancaster PA with RV, Vieques Radio 7-9 AM • Voices from the East 9-9:30 (MON – THUR) • Full sail (mental health) 9-10 AM (FRIDAYS) • Tribute…special musical program produced by Benjamín Muñiz for Vieques Radio 9.30 AM - 12 PM • Caribbean / Puerto Rican music EVERY OTHER WEDNESDAY: 12 NOON • Puerto Rican Cultural Institute on Vieques Radio
ARQUITECTO STANLEY HUTCHINSON 787.556.5537 stanleyc.hutchinson@gmail.com
PR License: 14438
Relaxation delivered right to your door!
INGRID BERGMAN
Nationally Certified Massage Therapist • Swedish Deep Tissue Neuromuscular Therapy
787-435-1313 www.ViequesMassage.com viequesmassage@yahoo.com
12-3 PM • Latin American Music 3-5 PM • World Music 5-7 PM • Rebroadcast of Voices from the East program 7PM (MON – THURS) • Full Sail 7PM FRIDAYS • Tribute 7:30 PM • Pacific Report: Latin American information produced in LA by Pacifica Radio 8-9PM • Democracy Now in English Music through the night SATURDAY • SUNDAY 9AM • Traditional sunrise 10AM • Rebroadcast of Voices from the East program SATURDAY 7PM: Tribute SUNDAY AT NOON • Tribute
KEEP CALM AND LOVE DOGS
P RO FESSI O N AL P ET SERVI C ES WA L K I N G • B O A R D I N G
(787) 918-2111 • info@wagpr.com 35
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36
996
Flamboyan
buenprovecho RESTAURANT
PHONE
DAYS OPEN
TYPE OF FOOD
1. AWESOME! YOGURT
787-5171061
TUES-THURS 6-9PM FRI & SAT 5-10PM
Frozen yogurt, frappes, smoothies, free wifi
2. BELLY BUTTONS
787-7413336
WED, FRI, SAT, SUN 9AM-3PM FRI-SUN BBQ nights 5-9PM Paella-WED-6:30-9PM reservations requested
Beach Restaurant with the islands best sandwich and best ribs!
3. BIEKES BISTRO
787-7416381
TUES.- THURS 10:30 AM - 9:30 PM FRI. & SAT Brunch 7:30AM - 2PM
Caribbean, Argentinian, and Seafood Flavors, speciality coffee drinks and cocktails
4. BILÍ
787-7411382
THURS-TUES 11:00AM-10PM WEEKENDS OPEN TIL 11PM
5. BLUE MOON BAR & GRILL at the Blue Horizon Boutique Resort
787-7413318
6. CARAMBOLA at the Blue Horizon boutique resort
CLOSING
REOPENING
SEPT 2
OCT 1
Puerto Rican fusion cuisine
SEPT 2
OCT 6
EVERYDAY 9AM-CLOSE SUN PASTA NIGHT 1-9PM
Circular Hand painted bar. A great place to meet!
OPEN 365 DAYS
787-7413318
BREAKFAST 7:00AM - 12:00PM LUNCH 12 -PM - 3 -PM DINNER 3:00PM - 9:30PM
Great local and international dishes served in Caribbean fashion.
OPEN 365 DAYS
7. CONUCO
787-7412500
TUES - SAT 5:30 - 9:30PM
Cocina Puertorriqueña
8. COQUI FIRE Café
787-7410401
MON - FRI 5-9PM
Gourmet Mexican food, reservations recommended
9. EL SOMBRERO VIEJO
787-7412416
EVERYDAY 11:00AM-CLOSE
Bar & Liquor Store
10. JOSE ENRIQUE
787-7416020
BAR:SUN-WED 4:30-12AM REST: 6-10PM BAR: THURS-SAT4:30-1 REST: 6-10:30
Caribbean flavors with locally sourced products. Mesquite fired grill -whole fish, beef & pork porterhouse. Offering whole roasted chickens and a large selection of smaller dishes.
11. LA ZAFRA
787-6449325
THURS - TUES 6-10PM SAT & SUN 10AM - 3PM
Authentic Puerto Rican / Viequense Cuisine
12. L’MIRADOR at the Blue Horizon boutique resort
787-7413318
PIZZA FRI & SAT 4-10 PM SUNDAY 1 PM -9 PM
Trendy Pizza Palace on a terrace overlooking the sea
OPEN 365 DAYS
13. MAR AZUL
787-7413400
FRI-MON 10AM-12AM TUES-THURS 3PM-12AM
Quality Pub Food / Late Night Snacks
SEPT 2
SEPT 9
14. NEXT COURSE
787-7411028
FRI. - WED. 5:30-10PM
Cuisine inspired by travel
JULY 30
OCT. 17
TUES, WED, & FRI 7AM-4PM
Farmers Market
15. PLACITA REYES 16. SORCÉ
787-7417022
EVERYDAY 7:30-11AM Breakfast 1 -3PM Lunch 6-10PM Dinner
Modern Puerto Rican cuisine showcasing local produce & seasonal ingredients
17. TRADEWINDS
787-7418666
DINNER EVERYDAY
Fresh Seafood, Steaks, Pasta, Paella, and more!
18. W CAFÉ
787-7417056
EVERYDAY 7AM-3PM
Freshly made smoothies, Puerto Rican Coffee & Gourmet takeaway
SEPT 5
SEPT 29
37
Vieques Classic Charter viequesclassiccharter.com
Sail on a historical, 1941 Philip Rhodes design, wooden yacht through crystal turquoise water.
787-467-3447
38
on the [ water
WHETHER YOU ARE AN EXPERIENCED SNORKELER OR A NOVICE DONNING MASK, FINS AND SNORKEL FOR THE FIRST TIME, VIEQUES IS ABUNDANT WITH OPPORTUNITY.
with Captain Tom K
BLUE TANG REEF
Off the Southern Coast of the Island sits one of the most flourishing reefs in the Caribbean. An open water reef only accessible by boat, Blue Tang is located about a half mile off the beaches of Bahia de la Chiva, the cayo off La Chiva or Blue Beach. Sea life there is vibrant. Elkhorn and Staghorn Coral, both endangered, are abundant; huge Brain Corals, Sea Fans, Sea Whips, Star Corals and more fill the watery landscape. Fish and sea life are equally spectacular. Sting Rays, Sand Sharks, Puffer Fish, Barracuda, Moray Eels and Caribbean Lobster are all local inhabitants. Schools of Parrot Fish, Royal Gramme, Trumpet and Butterfly Fish light up the reef with color. A moderate to good swimmer can cover most of the reef in a couple of hours. Blue Tang Reef is a good boat ride from Esperanza and not all charter boats make the trip. Check with the fleet moored in Esperanza Bay for availability. i
i
i
For those of you looking to set out on your
ROMPEOLAS own, Rompeolas, also called Mosquito Pier,
is the perfect snorkel site. Located on the north shore, two miles west of the airport on Highway 200, Rompeolas is easily accessible. The pier, actually a road, is a mile long, stretching out to a stilted pier at the end. The best snorkeling is about halfway up the pier on the Leeward, or West side. Rompeolas might be your best chance to see a sea turtle while snorkeling. Four species of sea turtles use Vieques as a nesting ground and are often spotted throughout the year. The closer you snorkel to the end of the pier, the more marine life you are likely to encounter. Puffer Fish, varieties of Rays, Jacks, Snappers and different species of schooling fish prefer this calm, protected water. Rompeolas is a popular diving destination so please be considerate and park to the sides of the road back from the gate. i
Taking advantage of a charter tour or guide service usually equals the best experience. No matter how you choose to snorkel Vieques, stay safe, never snorkel alone, and enjoy your time ON THE WATER in Vieques.
As you snorkel, always remember the reef is alive. To touch or disturb it is hazardous to both you and the reef.
39
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ELKHORN CORAL Vieques has beautiful reefs with hard coral coverage featuring important species such as this (picture) critically endangered Elkhorn Coral. This is considered one of the most important reef-building corals in the Caribbean. Vieques has new growth of Elkhorn Coral and similar types of coral, which is encouraging for our region, even though it is premature to say whether the population can rebound from the effects of disease, climate change and other human-related factors leading to an 80% reduction over the past 30 years. 40
the
Cycle of Life
Gifts from the Sea written b: Tom Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Grady
T
he ocean means many things to many people. For some it means solace, the comforting sound of waves lapping at the shore, calming and reassuring them. For others it is nature on display, flaunting its multiple shades of blue as they shift at the whim of ever-changing sun and clouds. And for others still, it is a liquid playground, embracing us and our toys above and below its welcoming surface. But for Vieques born-andraised couple Guelymar (pronounced Gay-leemar) Perez and Eric Torres the ocean means a cycle of life that touches everyone on Vieques, residents and visitors alike. As owners of Pescaderia Angelyz, the only fresh seafood market on the island, they are the oceanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s distribution center, working tirelessly to bring the efforts of some to the pleasure of others. Like their families before them and the watermen around them Perez and Torres are pearls in an endless string of pearls that is life on Vieques. 41
“...an amazing,
They are the fathers, sons, brothers, uncles, nephews and cousins of generations who have gone down to the sea
42
JEN TEETER
ancient scene forms outside like a canvas come to life...”
Metaphoric jewelry aside, their average day starts like most parents, waking and herding three sons - Eric, Hector and Misael - into school clothes and, eventually, to school. Then off to work, to their waterfront market just past the Ferry Terminal on a sliver of road that ends at their building. The blue underwater scene painted on the walls gleams in the morning sun in contrast to the clear blue water around it. It is a simple structure; weigh and filet shed, a walk-in freezer, an office and several chest-style freezers laid end to end in a moderate-sized room, suggesting both the simplicity and importance of what they do. No fancy glass-front display cases filled with shaved ice here. Doors unlocked and opened to the hot sun, the day begins. Framed by the doorway an amazing, ancient scene forms outside like a canvas come to life; gor-
geous white clouds sit softly near the tops of the North Shore hills, moored sailboats bob in the diamond surface of the water. Two dozen tarpon float patiently out front like oversized goldfish in a bowl waiting for Tomas, the weigh and filet man of the team, to share some of the days’ bounty with them, the tarpon clearly unaware of the irony they represent. To the left, on the concrete pier that juts out into the north side waters of the island, the harvesters of the sea begin their daily transfer of bounty from boat to land. And so it continues… Many hours before, while Guelymar and Eric sleep, boats drift in the moonlight, their lines trailing in the dark water for Yellow Tail and Snapper. A few hours later men in wetsuits dive deep to the ocean floor in search of royalty,
the Queen Conch. Alongside them come the lobstermen, checking the pots or nasas for spiny delicacies. And throughout the sun’s rising hours, more men of the sea reach down into the depths to scoop out their daily living. They are the past, present and future of Vieques fishing - fifteen to twenty of them depending on the season, half who harvest the conch and four to six who work the lobster pots. They are the fathers, sons, brothers, uncles, nephews and cousins of generations who have gone down to the sea in boats, passing along the knowledge and the tools to support each other. On any given day Guelymar’s uncles, Jose the captain and Papo the diver, provide the carrucho or conch; Captain Georgie brings the langosta or lobster; Jhony and his
helpers haul the fish. For them and the other fishermen it is their job to bring the ocean’s offerings to the land, a physically challenging - patience testing and, yes, dangerous job that has wounded some and buried others. The sea does not give up its treasures easily. Narcosis, sun and heat exposure, rough and unpredictable seas, ocean predators, lightning, all lay in wait to harm or disable the careless gatherer. But it does not deter them. It is the fishermen’s job, their calling. And they answer well. At 10am the procession begins. Captains and boat hands, divers and helpers file up the pier hauling their baskets of pescado or seafood; Dorado, Tuna, Hog Fish, Yellowtail, Snapper, Grouper, Kingfish, Conch and Lobster. They bring them to the
doorway of the Pescaderia and lay them at the feet of Guelymar and Eric like proud hunters. They laugh and comment to each other as they hose down their wetsuits or rinse their arms, their camaraderie visible and enjoyable even to an outsider. They have returned to shore safely one more time. Their job is done. And now Guelymar’s, Eric’s and Tomas’s begins. Tomas filets a grouper for a visiting couple while Eric moves from front door to freezer to slicer where he cuts frozen Hogfish or “capitan,” a fish caught fresh within the last few days. Guelymar watches the indoor scale, marking the weights of tubs of live lobster, then moves back to the doorway where three huge baskets of conch sit in watery juices of the sea. 43
JEN TEETER
“That’s about two hundred pounds,” she says, her head nodding toward the whole catch, her experienced eye already calculating as she marks the weight of the first tub from the outdoor scale. Tomas adds or subtracts scoops of conch to get even weights in each basket then sets them aside. The white, tan and grey meat of the big shells we love to decorate our porches with will be packed into ten pound bags, then stacked in the walk-in freezer for local sale or distribution to the big island of Puerto Rico. On this day school is out and middle son, Hector, eleven, a handsome boy with long legs, is helping. Youngest son Misael, in typical nine year old fashion, bugs Mom for money for snacks. Guelymar complies at first, smiling at his cute face, then gives him a short burst of serious words in Spanish that clearly mean enough is enough when he returns for a second request. Perhaps their sons will take over the business someday, perhaps not. 44
“I have to wait to see,” Perez says, her eyes rolling. She is a young woman and that future is a long way away. But considering her and Eric’s parents’ history it is clearly possible. Guelymar remembers her early exposure to the business. “I lived at the beach, next to Bravos Beach Hotel. My grandmother made the bacalaitos and sold them. We always had fish as a family business. Eric’s relatives, as far back as his great-great-grandfather, were also businessmen, butchers who sold meat on the island. So I told Eric, you know the business and I know the fish. We should do this.” The inspiration to take on the “business” came from a pescaderia that was no longer operating efficiently. Three previous owners before them did not work out and the fishermen found themselves having to become salesmen as well. Because of that experience they were wary of the new owners. “It was hard,” Guelymar says, her face at first serious, then softening. “The fishermen, they didn’t trust us. They thought we would make some money and then go away as well. Now, it’s good. But it was hard in the first two years. We worked out of our house. Every day, fishermen at my door.” Watching them work now, it’s clear in the interactions of Torres/Perez and the fishermen that they need and appreciate each other. One job picks up
where the other leaves off. The fishermen know they will be paid at the end of their workday, and fairly, by filling the needs of Pescaderia Angelyz. Torres and Perez know they will be paid at some point by filling ours. And so the final phase of the cycle brings the bounty to us. Guelymar says about seven of the restaurants on Vieques buy from them, some regularly and some from time to time. Fortunate visitors and residents of Vieques enjoy the literal catch of the day when they stop by. Lobster, conch and fish not sold the day of catch are placed in the chest freezers and sold within the week. Eric takes anything left at the end of the week to the big island on Monday and sells it to a distributor in Naguabo where it quickly ends up on the tables of multiple restaurants there. When asked if she feels her work is important she answers quickly. “Oh, yes. There’s a lot of families depending on it. At least twenty families. And then the restaurants.” And the future? How long will she keep doing the work? Guelymar pauses then looks out across the pier, the boats, the water, for a simple answer to a question bigger than her. “Until the sea stops giving.” Vieques. Sea life. Family. And so it continues….
Pescaderia Angelyz 787-918-0559 / 787-428-5182
A La Isla de Vieques • To The Island of Vieques Author: Amaldina June 4, 1950
Born in Vieques in 1912, Amaldina was a Pioneer Spiritualist, naturalist, healing medium, and mystic.
a
maldina’s mostly unpublished volumes of poetry, essays and messages were entrusted to her niece, Vivian Garcia. Thinking that she was taking a semester-long sabbatical to fulfill her mother’s wish that she translate the collection of her aunt Almaldina’s essays and poetry, Vivian was inspired to pursue a different path. A retired attorney, Vivian is working as an independent scholar on the subject of Espiritismo (Spiritualism) as it is practiced in Puerto Rico. She continues to learn from and share the works of Amaldina. Vivian’s study has led to her life as a Certified Spiritual Healer at the Lily Dale Assembly located in Cassadaga, New York where she lives when she is not in Vieques.
“I was 8 when I met my aunt on my first trip
to Puerto Rico. She was “scary Titi Aurea” with two different color eyes. Though I understood few words, as Amaldina she transformed a little girl’s fear to only love. Fifty years later, having translated and recited her written words I now consider that recital my first brush with her healing powers.
”
...
Quiero que se sepa Que yo soy de esa misma cepa Muy isleña, Y muy, pero que muy portorriqueña... Porque si al aire Y al sol le canto: Sabe tu, isla hermosa Que fué maravillosa La mañana, En que tu sol, Y tu luz Me bautizaron... Y aunque distante de ti, Porque alli naci, Pregono por doquiera Que hasta el dia En que muera, Habré de llevarte Asida a mi entraña. Y sera mi estandarte Para siempre amarte. ¡A tus mares cantando Y a tu tierra besando! Y honrada me siento De ser hija tuya, Y saber que se arrulla El corazon de mi madre, Que duerme en tu seno.
I want it known That I am pure blooded Very islander, And very, but very much a Puerto Rican woman. Because yes, to the air and to the sun I sing: You know, beautiful island that it was wondrous the morning, in which your sun and your light baptized me. And although far from you Still, I was born there; I proclaim it everywhere That until the day I die, I will carry you deep within me. And my banner will be To love you forever more. To your seas I sing and it’s your shores I kiss! And so honored I feel to be your daughter and to know that you lull the heart of my mother, a heart that sleeps deep within your bosom.
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Mercado Agricola / Farmer’s Market Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday Martes, Miercoles y Viernes 7am -4pm off of 200 on route 201
aLL yoUr priNtiNg NEEds: business cards bumper stickers flyers Publisher brochures of Fin de postcards Semana menus Vieques Community signs News
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he
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Ubicada en la carretera 201 al frente de la Ferretería Nales. Located on Highway 201 in front of Ferretería Nales.
any • t mp
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ieque s
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Sunset or daytime rides on the beach with memorable views to St.Thomas and Culebra.
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The print shop of Vieques La imprenta de Vieques
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Private & small groups by appointment only. SeaGate Hotel offers very comfortable lodging at an affordable price!
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Leatherback returns to Playa Grande
VQS017 BY: KELLY THOMPSON
“Coqui Girl to Peaches, do you copy? Movin’on to number 2.” “Copy that.”
it
was 8pm and we were on our first round of walking Playa Grande, monitoring the nesting sites of the leatherbacks and watching for the massive turtles to emerge from the ocean to dig new nests. And for a good reason. So far, in this Vieques nesting season, which lasts from mid-April through June, there were 21 documented leatherback nests, a number down from previous years and a concern to biologists worldwide. So, while many on the island were dining and dancing away the Sunday night before Memorial day, a team of four women were packing snacks and headlamps to spend from 7pm - 4am patrolling the beach, hoping to aid the critically endangered leatherback. The danger is two-fold. We could come across a turtle depositing her eggs in a nest too close to the water, which would require us moving them to a safe location. Or, hatching “tinglares” could emerge from a nest and need assistance to make it to the ocean.
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Our team leader, Francheska Ruiz, radio handle “Coqui Girl”, is a 28 year old biologist from Fajardo and field biologist for Fish and Wildlife Services. The three volunteers are Sandy, aka “Peaches”, visiting from Georgia who has worked with FWS for 30 years, Ambar, a volunteer with Ticatove. And me. I’m in search of not just the chance to witness a mama leatherback. I want a story, and if I’m very lucky, a few photos – a real challenge without flash or lights. But I’m soon to be rewarded with all. The radio crackles.
“Coqui Girl to Peaches, Better turn that truck around. Looks like we got a turtle on the beach.” “Copy that.” And there she is, 5 feet long and aproximately 800 pounds. Francheska knows this leatherback, recognizing VQS017 from a scar on the turtle’s face. She feels under the left front flipper for the PIT tag (Passive Integrated Transmitter) that she had inserted into the turtle’s fin twelve days previously. Alternating from right to left back flipper, and breathing heavily, the leatherback digs the hole aproximately 3 feet deep. Satisfied with the depth, she begins to drop her eggs one by one into the nest. Turtles go into a trance-like state to lay eggs and, at that stage, are not bothered by movement or sound. Now, Francheska snaps into work mode methodically delegating jobs to each one of us. We take measurements of the tear shaped, hydrodynamic body, inspect old and new scars and injuries, take GPS coordinates and double check the PIT tag and the second metal tag attached to the flipper.
In the meantime, VQS017 deposits approximately forty eggs and a few “decoys”, smaller yolkless eggs to fool predators. Then she begins covering and hiding the nest. “It’s really the only thing she does as the mother,” says Francheska, because after disguising the nest, the eggs and babies are completely on their own. Except, of course, for the help of the FWS monitoring program. Statistically, out of all the eggs laid in this 2014 turtle nesting season, approximately four hundred to five hundred eggs, it is possible that none will survive to adulthood. This living dinosaur, which traces its evolutionary roots back more than 100 million years, is now in critical need from humans to save it from extinction. It is a global (and local) effort. Employees from FWS and Ticatove volunteers patrol the beaches during the nesting season for nine hours every single night for almost three months. Their efforts increase the probability of the baby leatherbacks’ survival immeasurably. It is a long three months of night-shift work for these caring guardians. It’s time for VQS017 to return to the ocean. She is breathing heavily as she pushes her way down the beach. Just before the water’s edge she turns her tail to the water and stops moving, looking at us. “Turn off your headlamps,” Francheska says. We comply and we wait. VQS017 doesn’t move. “Go,” Francheska says, pointing to the ocean, “that way.” And in another wave, she is gone. I like to think she turned to check her eggs one last time, as a mother would do, and thank us for watching over them. Maybe, maybe not. But I like good stories. n
TURTLE FIRST AID A previous monitoring team comes to the aid of baby sea turtles emerging from the nest too soon. The turtles’ bellies are not quite closed up which will create buoyancy and not allow them to dive for food once they reach the ocean. These baby sea turtles will spend a night or two in a “dry bag” simulating the nest at the home of USFWS team leader Mitsuka’s house until they can be released back into the ocean. ............................... Leatherbacks can sometimes lay 4-9 nests in the span of 7-9 weeks. Recent estimates of global nesting populations are that 26,000 to 43,000 females nest annually, which is a dramatic decline from the 115,000 estimated in 1980. These declining numbers have energized efforts to rebuild the species, which currently is critically endangered. 49
breads breakfast pastries quiches a desserts for all occasions
The Green Baked Man Goods
“..awesome food and service” as seen on TripAdvisor.
i n t e r n a t i o n a l
Have your morning breakfast waiting for you at your rental house when you arrive!
call to order
(787)435-6822 Scott D. Appell
viequesgreenman@aol.com
Good Wine, Good PeoPle, Great Food Welcome to Bieke’s Bistro, a cozy Caribbean style Bistro with Caribbean, Argentinian, and Seafood flavors. We have an extensive wine selection and island Sonia Romero drinks like our famous mojito, as well as specialty coffee drinks, espresso, cappuccino, and homemade desserts ! Stop in for lunch or dinner and Don’t miss our amazing brunch on Fridays and Saturdays! See you there!
“See the island the way it was meant to be seen... with the Caribbean Cowgirls... and Cowboy!”
787.435.0073
www.esperanzaridingcompany.com
MON 5PM-10PM TUES - THURS 10:30AM - 10:00PM FRI & SAT BRUNCH 7:30AM-2:00PM DINNER 2PM-10:00PM
787-741 6381
closed sunday
www.biekesbistro.com www.viequesverde.biz paul@viequesverde.biz
787.477.7684 PR License #19884
PauL H. Lutton a R q u i t e c to
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Balancing aesthetics, function, cost, and time, while managing the expectations and logistics of building on Vieques. Know your options. call for a consultation today!
Malecón
House
Boutique
www.maleconhouse.com
787-741 0663 Located at the chic Inn - Malecon House Esperanza right on the malecon next to Tradewinds 50
Massage & Yoga by Maureen Harrison Ph.787.556.5025
35 Years Experience Swedish, Shiatsu, Deep Tissue, Reflexology and more.
Email: mahalaksmi88@gmail.com Massage at your desired location. Call for Yoga schedule.
Afraid of Sharks?
What about this little guy?
IGUANA BITES ER, UM…BYTES Vieques is inundated with iguanas. You’ll see these lightgreen, dark-green, tan or even greyish lizards lounging in trees, ambling along the thoroughfares or scuttling across the road – and not always successfully. Young iguanas are psychedelic green and look like miniature dinosaurs carved out of pistachio ice cream. Classified as Iguana iguana, it is believed these reptiles arrived on Vieques (as well as the rest of the Caribbean) because the Taino Indians dropped off breeding adults on the various islands to ensure a steady food supply upon returning. • Male iguanas can reach a length of six feet while females usually attain a length of four. • The word “iguana” is derived from the original Taino name for the reptile: “iwana”. • To guarantee safe landings and take offs, Puerto Rico’s Luis Muñoz Marin International Airport has an official group of staff to remove wayward reptiles from the landing fields. • Iguanas are standard mealtime fare in Mexico, Central and South America and parts of the Caribbean.
Scolopendra gigantean. Yepgiant centipedes. These creatures live in the warm and moist areas of the world, mainly in the South American Amazon, parts of the Caribbean, and, you guessed it, here on Vieques...though the chance of seeing one during a week-long vacation is very slim. It goes without saying that if you do see one, as tempting as it might be, do not cuddle, kiss or play with it. Typically found in moist, shaded areas, these carnivores have sharp claws that they use to penetrate their victims’ bodies and inject venom. They feed on insects, tarantulas, small lizards, frogs, small birds, mice and even bats. The poison injected is toxic to humans and can cause chills, fever, nausea, and pain. If bitten, wash with soap and use ice and antihistamine for the swelling and itching. All centipede species have an odd number pair of legs: that is to say a species may have 21 pairs or 23 pairs of legs, never 50 pairs of legs. That means you can’t find a centipede that has exactly 100 legs! Centipedes can climb to the ceiling of a cave and hang from just a few legs to catch a bat in flight. The centipede pictured here, found dead in a pool, is shown ACTUAL SIZE but they can grow to be a foot long!
• In the memoir The Life of the Admiral Christopher Columbus (written by his son) the sailors reported iguana meat to be “white, soft and tasty”. • In Mexico, iguana eggs are considered superb accompaniments to cocktails. Gravid (egg layden) females are captured, incised with a machete, the unlaid eggs removed, and the lizards sown back up and released. Their powers of recuperation are remarkable. • In Nicaragua, Easter iguana soup (sopa de garrobo) is a tradition. • Iguanas are highly sensitive to the whistle of predatory hawks and will freeze at the sound. • Hawaii has stiff penalties (a three year jail term!) for importing iguanas. • Iguanas only bite each other. But they do lash their powerful tails lion-tamer style to whip would be assailants. If the tail snaps off, it readily regenerates and bifurcate (two-tailed) specimens are not uncommon. 51
30,000 OFFSPRING
M O N T H L Y Lionfish can live in depths between two and 1000 feet and in almost any habitat from patch reefs over walls to mangroves. Year round they produce up to 30,000 offspring monthly and prey on a large variety of fish, shrimp and crabs. Their high adaptability, prolific reproduction and all-encompassing appetite make them especially dangerous as an invasive species. Fishermen, dive operators, the Vieques Trust and others on our island are trying to keep the population in check. Do your part and order lionfish whenever you see it on the menu. It is delicious! Look for more information and where to sample lionfish in the December issue of Vieques Insider!
viequ y to e
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B E AC H B U C K E T F I R ST A I D
WITH DR. BEN
JE L LYFI SH A ND P O RT U G E S E M A N O’ WA R –
2 totally different stings!
J
ellyfish enjoy the warm, shallow waters around Vieques and rarely cause harm. Unless of course you come into contact with one. The number one priority is to get to shore ASAP. Most stings are minimal but the danger is in having an allergic reaction to the venom. Anyone who is allergic to bees or wasps may also have a dangerous allergic reaction to a jellyfish sting. Watch for any breathing problems, nausea, or dizziness, and seek medical care immediately. If stung by a jellyfish, you want to deactivate the nematocysts (the thousands of tiny stinging parts on the tentacles), remove them, and provide pain relief. Putting together a simple kit of easily obtained items, stowed away in your car, can be very helpful. A bottle of vinegar, a can of shaving cream, a plastic knife and a few paper towels are all you need. Pour the vinegar over the tentacles attached to your skin which inactivates the nematocysts from further stinging. Apply the shaving cream on the tentacles and gently scrape off with the plastic knife. This works the same way shaving cream makes whiskers more easily removed when shaving. And dispose of the shaving cream and tentacles slurry in the paper towels, making sure not to come in contact with any of the mess. Pain relief with any of the over the counter
pain medications will help with the residual pain that can last hours or days. By the way, don’t pour fresh water over the affected area. This will cause more pain. Portuguese Man O’ War is often confused with a regular jellyfish but its venom is different and so the stings are treated differently. Again, the majority of time their stings cause local pain and tingling, but can progress to more severe systemic problems including nausea, headache, chills and, possibly, death. Removal of the tentacles is just as important as with a jellyfish sting, but don’t use vinegar which causes an increase in toxin release and an increase in pain. Applying heat to the affected area can quickly alleviate the pain - warmed seawater (not fresh water) or any other warmed object will do. Careful with the kids who may come across a jellyfish or Man O’ War washed up on shore. They can be blue, purple or pink and may look like a beach toy with bad consequences. But again, if you have any other symptoms, aside from local pain and tingling, go to the local ER for help. Tell them Dr. Ben sent you.
This article is intended to convey general information for educational purposes only, and should not be considered a professional diagnosis, opinion, advice, treatment or services as to any particular patient or injury. The information provided is not a substitute for medical or professional care, and you should not use the information in place of a visit, call, consultation or the advice of your physician or other healthcare provider. IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY, YOU SHOULD IMMEDIATELY CALL 911 OR YOUR PHYSICIAN. If you believe you have any other health problem, or if you have any questions regarding your health or a medical condition, you should promptly consult your physician or other healthcare provider. Never disregard medical or professional advice, or delay seeking it, because of something you read in this article. Never rely on information contained in this article in place of seeking professional medical advice. Medical information changes constantly. Therefore the information contained in this article should not be considered current, complete or exhaustive, nor should you rely on such information to recommend a course of treatment for you or any other individual. Reliance on any information provided in this article is solely at your own risk.
53
I N S T A G R A M C O N T E S T The authentic “Insider” view of Vieques is by those who live, work, and play here. Whether enjoying a sunset or bored in math class, these are moments of real island life by people who go to school, go to work, babysit their brother, or are falling in love for the first time.
and the winner is >> 3RD HAIRCUT Yatzil L. Ramos Cruz 2 years old Photo taken by his sister Tanyaí Garcia Cruz D I C I E M B R E
CONCURSO DEL
S E L F I E MÁS LOCO Envíennos sus selfies. Cuanto más loco, mejor! El ganador/la ganadora ganará el premio de “mejor selfie loco” y recibirá un certificado de regalo de
$25
para el restaurante Carambola! Kelly@viequesinsider.com o envía tu selfie por texto al 787.435.3172
54
D E C E M B E R
WA C K I E S T S E L F I E CONTEST Send me those selfies folks. The wackier the better. Winner gets the Wacky award plus a
$25
gift certificate to Carambola Restaurant! kelly@viequesinsider.com or text to 787.435.3172
spontanieques
55
Hacienda Tamarindo Hospitality...it’s our nature.
See for yourself why we are the #1 choice.
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wi-fi
caBLe tv w/d
VISIT THE
CEIBA TREE
ENJOY A
WATCH THE SUNSET ON THE SOUTH SIDE PASS IT ON
GO ON A
TOUR
QUESITO
SMILE BIG
(SNORKELING, SAILING, HORSEBACK RIDING, WHAT’S YOUR FANCY?)
FORGET YOURSELF
COLLECT SEA GLASS
SEE THE SUGAR MILL RUINS
TIP APPRECIATE LOCAL ART
TRY A QUENEPA GO TO THE FORT LISTEN TO RADIO VIEQUES
JUMP OFF
THE PIER IN ESPERANZA
SAMPLE FARE FROM THE KIOSKS
snorkel the pier
DONATE TO A LOCAL NON PROFIT GET PUNCHY!
LISTEN FOR A COQUI
GET LOST
WATCH THE SUNSET ON THE NORTH SIDE
HAVE LOCAL LOBSTER
quick, quick slow salsa at la nasa quick, quick slow
ADOPT A DOG FIND A HEART ROCK
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READ VIEQUES INSIDER
from the
20
j u ly novem
ber 2 0 14
rs to viequ es
sea
beaches to explore EssEnt
ial gu idE
VQS017
insidE
!
leatherb ack returns to playa grande
on the
water look for
insider
tips
DON’T MISS THE DECEMBER FOOD AND DINING ISSUE! For more information about Vieques Insider contact Kelly 787.435.3172 or email kelly@viequesinsider.com Check out the interactive, online magazine at www.viequesinsider.com 57
Vieques
lat 18.1263 long 65.4401
Isabel II
FERRY
Rompeolas AIRPORT
Punta Arenas
Bunkers
Mosquito / Bioluminescent
Esperanza Playa Grande
Sunbay
Cayo de Tierra
Media Navío Luna
Cayo Afuera ACCOMODATIONS
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19.
Blue Horizon Boutique Resort Casa de Amistad Casa Colores Casa La Lanchita El Blok Flamboyan Guesthouse Hacienda Tamarindo Hectors by the Sea Hix Island House Malecon House Sea Gate Hotel Hilltop Retreat Apartment Trade Winds Villa Coral W Vieques
HORSEBACK RIDING
27. Esperanza Riding 28. Sea Gate Hotel 29. Taxi Horses LIQUOR STORE
30. El Sombrero Viejo (Liquor) MUSEUMS
31. Forte Conde Mirasol 32. VCHT PADDLEBOARDING
33. JAK Water Sports 34. Vieques Paddleboarding
ART GALLERIES
Ellie Harold Fuerte Conde Mirasol Siddhia Hutchinson Gallery VCHT
BIO BAY
20. JAK Water Sports CAR RENTAL
21. Avis 22. Maritza’s 23. Vieques Car Rental FISHING CHARTERS
24. Fin Time Adventures FITNESS
25. Sweat Fitness W
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FLOWERS
26. Flores
RESTAURANTS & BARS
44. 45. 46. 47. 48. 49. 50. 51. 52. 53. 54. 55. 56. 57. 58. 59. 60.
Awesome Yogurt & Fruits Belly Buttons Biekes Bistro Bilí Carambola Conuco Coquí Fire El Sombrero Viejo José Enrique @ El Blok La Zafra Mar Azul Next Course Placita Reyes Roys Internet Café Sorcé W Trade Winds W Café
YOGA
73. Blu Hoku AGENCIES/SERVICES
74. 75. 76. 77. 78.
Humane Society US Fish and Wildlife Office City Hall/Alcaldía Recycling Office Tourism Office
MEDICAL SERVICES
79. Farmacia San Antonio EMERGENCY
80. Ambulance 81. Fire Dept 82. Police
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35. Jennifer Teeter
PUBLICATIONS
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61. 62. 63. 64. 65.
AHOY Vieques Caribbean Lady Fin Time Adventures LittleBoat Sailing Vieques Classic Charter
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66. Isla Nena Scuba & Snorkel SHOPPING
67. 68. 69. 70. 71. 72.
Funky Beehive Malecon House Boutique Toda La Casa Trade Winds Gift Shop VCHT Gift Shop Vieques Flowers and Gifts
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