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December 2016 January 2017 Issue No. 77
Now, you may be a bit parched, and Asociación de Artes will solve that problem with our beverage bar! There will be plenty of places to hang out and visit with your friends. Come for breakfast, do your shopping, visit friends and go home after lunch! The lovely grounds lend to a winding stroll through the booths, past the food and around the pool. You will have the opportunity to also buy raffle tickets for our two fantastic baskets filled with gift certificates for hotel stays, activities, beauty treatments and dinners! Buy a ticket or 6 and get your chance to win one of the baskets worth hundreds of dollars each. It is the raffle sales that provides the funds from this show to support all the kids programs we do.
Just
a short ride north of ‘downtown’ Los Barriles, you will find the neighborhood of Colina del Sol. There, on the club house grounds you will enjoy the Asociación de Artes Holiday Art Show. This show provides a showcase for local artists to present their creations to the public and just in time for holiday shopping season!! This show offers art work from local artists, jewelry from Elizabeth Perkins, Sunny Dresses, Aprons, pillowcases and other fabric art, wooden bowls from Todos Santos, handmade cards, hats, just to name a few of the artists we will showcase. And to the last-minute shoppers, how about turning over a new leaf, and get your Christmas present for that special one there, and get it over with!!!!
While shopping, your nose will be tantalized by the delicious smells coming from our food vendors. We will be featuring burgers from Gourmet Pizza of San Antonio who will also bring his sweet breads, jams, salsas and his delicious strudel (and you can order a whole one for your holiday party!). You will also smell the aroma from the Sausage Ladies- and yes, there will be stock you can take home, Carmen and her smoothies and treats and ice cream bars, cheese cake, tea and other yummies from Tea of Cortez. December 2016 January 2017
Mark your Calendar for Sunday, December 4th 10am – 3pm
The Asociación de Artes (who puts out this great paper) is the producer of this show, the Artist Studio Tour on February 8, 2017 and our big Art Festival held this season on March 19, 2017. These events are the major fundraisers for the programs we support like baseball camps, Cursos de Verano summer program, Saturday Crafts, and providing school art supplies to at least 19 East Cape schools. To get to Colina del Sol, just head north towards the road to nowhere, and look for the signs! We appreciate the support from the local residents – full and part time- and the visitors that come to this Holiday Show and make it a success. For more information on the show or to become a vendor, please contact Elizabeth at edesignsbaja@aol.com. Yum, strudel from Gourmet Pizza of San Antonio. Get a piece or order a whole one for your events and dinners!
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Advertising in East Capers
Advertising in the East Capers gets the word out about your business AND your ad money supports the 3 week 'Cursos de Verano' summer school, for over 120 local children, provides art supplies for 18 East Cape public schools, and baseball camps, just to name a few things the Asociacion de Artes does!
East Capers Periódico Publisher Asociación de Artes del Mar de Cortez A.C., Los Barriles, BCS, Mexico Editor
In addition to space in the printed version, your color ad appears in the online version at no additional cost. You can download the 2016/17 Advertising Kit by visiting our website at: www.eastcapearts.com.
Christine Kenck-Courtright
Tax-deductable Contributions to the Asociación de Artes
Brian Cummings
The Asociación de Artes del Mar de Cortez A.C., Los Barriles, B.C. Sur, Mexico is a legal non-profit Mexican corporation not affiliated with any other organization, association, club or business. The Asociación is in full compliance with the terms of the NAFTA agreement of January 1, 1994. As such, contributions made to the Asociación de Artes are tax-deductible in the United States, Mexico and Canada. For more information visit: www.eastcapearts.com or the NAFTA Website at: http://www.ustr.gov/trade-agreements/free-tradeagreements/north-american-free-trade-agreementnafta.
Volunteers Needed!
The Asociación de Artes needs volunteers to help support their programs that bring the arts to the local communities and the schools. To learn more about these programs, visit: www.eastcapearts.com. If you would like to volunteer, send an email to: eastcapearts@gmail.com.
Call for Articles
East Capers is looking for fiction and true stories about our region and items that affect our residents. If you are interested in submitting articles, recipes, stories or your personal experiences in Baja, email your 1,000-words or less article to: eastcapersmagazine@gmail.com
Thank You!
This publication is possible with the help of the board members of the Asociación de Artes and members of the community.
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Circulation
Advertising Contributors Theresa Comber Christine Courtright Urmas Kaldveer Jorge Bergin Sephi Held Kim Schoelfield Irene DeAndero Anthology 2010 Renee Lagloire Baja Insider Kathy Warnert Ann Hazzard Connie Heinen Karin Lehnardt Emma Nicholson JoAnn Hyslop Abouttravel.com Mexonline.com BajaInsider.com Charlene Wenger Karin Lehnardt Roxie Whiteman Ismael Castro Ortiz
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Imprenta Ciudad Los Niños, La Paz, BCS, Mexico
To learn about Ciudad Los Niños, visit their website at: http://ciudadninoslapaz.org/english/home.htm ———————————
The opinions expressed within the articles in East Capers are those of the author and do not nec-
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The Los Barriles Dog Show 2017
We’re Back With Wagging Tails and a New & Improved Recipe By: Emma Nicholson
The Los Barriles Dog Show is back and hopefully bigger and better than before! Mark the date in yours, and your dog’s, diary for Sunday February 26 2017. The show gates open promptly at 10.30am for an 11am start. Once again, the event will take place in the fantastic space in front of the Hotel Palmas de Cortez. The show is designed for the whole community, so make sure you bring your friends, family and loved ones for a day of entertaining fun and lots of giggles. It has been a turbulent year since the 2015 show as we lost some wonderful people who we not only miss very much, but were instrumental in making the first event a reality; namely Marty Lentz, Sheila Marshall and Ila Buckley. We are honouring their contribution and support with three new trophies at the event. The happy and wonderful news is that Tracey, the brains behind the agility part of the show, has fought back against cancer and has made a miraculous recovery surprising and delighting both the medical profession and friends and family! The show just wouldn’t be happening without Tracey.
The 2017 show will feature new events and activities that we hope dogs and their owners will be able to take part in, or simply enjoy as a spectator. Every dog that takes part in the show will receive an award certificate, and dogs that are placed 1st to 4th will receive a ribbon. For a handful of events, the overall winner will receive a trophy. One lucky dog, who has impressed throughout the whole show, will receive the special ‘Best in Show’ ribbon. There is also a ‘Best in Show’ runner-up ribbon, so there really is EVERYTHING to play for this year! 1. Special Show Features - special show features will include: The Disc Dogs of Mexico fr om Mexico City. Fabian is coming back but this time in a more official capacity to show us what his amazingly skilled disc dogs can do. The Schutzhund Club of La Paz and The Club de Entrenamiento Canino La Paz. The group is returning with their spectacular display of police dog-style demonstrations as well as some new and additional features. Children’s Corner – we will have face painting, temporary doggy tattoos and ‘face through the hole’ fun to ensure that the kids are getting into the show groove! Food & Drink Vendors – there will be plenty of choice this year including pizza, traditional Mexican snacks and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
Vendors – there will also be a few vendors selling giftstyle items that you can peruse in between show events and activities. 2. Agility – the dogs that have been through the training sessions, plus dogs from other agility groups in Mexico, will perform their newly learnt skills for the crowd. This year the judging will be based solely on official agility criteria. You may have seen that the agility course has already been set up in front of the Hotel Palmas for the training sessions. This year we have lots more beginners and the intermediate groups from last year’s training. Email Tracey if you have any questions about the agility thebarkeryec@outlook.com. Tracey and the team will decide how the agility heats will work nearer to the show.
3. Open Events - events that don’t require any previous training or experience, and are open to everyone, include new and existing activities such as: Best Looking Dog - this year we have split the ‘best looking’ dogs into a mixed breed and pure breed category due to the overwhelming demand last year: Best looking mixed breed (large 40lbs+) Best looking pure breed (large 40lbs+) Best looking mixed breed (small -40lbs) Best looking pure breed (small -40lbs) Best Trick or Skill – this is strictly an amateur class and no professionals will be allowed to compete so that we can see what our local dogs have to offer! Dog Most Like its Owner – this is a new class and we are basically looking for the dog that most displays the characteristics and appearance of its owner. This may be in costume or simply you both look alike because of your hair, height or personality! Best Costume – the very popular class where there are no limits to creativity. We only ask that you think carefully about your dog and the weather – any dogs that appear to be over-heating will be disqualified immediately. Cutest Pair – we saw some amazing pairs of dogs last year and we are inviting them all back again – and more! This was such a gem of a class, and we wish we could have given all the pairs a prize. Temptation Alley – this is a new activity and guaranteed to be hilarious! Dogs attempt to run a gauntlet of treats, hot dogs and toys for a prize at the other end. We’re looking forward to seeing which doggies manage to get from one end to the other without being tempted!
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Dog Show Continued from page 3:
Questions & Answers We have had quite a few questions about this year’s event, and we thought it might help to provide some answers as follows: Q1: I only want to watch. How much does it cost? A1: It costs $50 pesos per spectator. Under 10 year olds go free. There will be additional security and signage this year to help people find the show’s main entrance. You will receive a wrist band that proves to the security team that you have paid. Q2: Will there be chairs and shade? A2: We ask everyone to please bring chairs and um brellas. No chairs are provided. Q3: How does my dog take part? Q3: Registration will be on the day. Please arrive with your dog from 10.00am – 11.00am for event registration. This year it will be $40 pesos per event, and you will be given a number that you simply peel off and attach. Q4: We loved the t-shirts from last year. Can we get them in advance this year? A4: Yes. We have stylish hoodies and t-shirts available at Saturday’s Community Market. Look out for Kareema and Tracey or email Kareema at kjrjones2007@hotmail.com. Q5: Where can we park? A5: We are providing a limited amount of parking this year as the show layout will be different.
Q6: A6: Q7: A7:
Q8: Q8:
Q9: A9:
Will there be food and drink available? There will be both food and drink available pro vided by a number of well-known vendors in town and from the East Cape. What time does it start? Spectators should arrive from 10.30am on wards. Dogs can start to register from 10.00am. The show is organised by The Baja Kennel Club to raise money for neutering and spaying in partnership with ALMA, SNAP and AMIGOS DE ANIMALES. Contact emma@bajakennelclub.com or www.bajakennelclub.com. What happens if it’s a hot day? Please make sure that you bring shade for you and your dogs. There will be a Water Station available and a Doggy Wash to cool down your four-legged friends. The Dog Lounge is reserved this year for dogs that are just about to enter the ring so that they’re not waiting in the sun. Where does the money go? The show is organised by The Baja Kennel Club, a group of passionate people who love dogs, to raise money for neutering and spaying in partnership with ALMA, SNAP and AMIGOS DE ANIMALES. The Baja Kennel Club and Los Barriles Dog Show is an initiative sponsored by ALMA. The previous show enabled all groups to hold a series of clinics throughout the year. Continued on page 5:
Located next to East Cape Health Center
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Q10: How do I find out about what’s going on? A10: We have an active Facebook page and we recommend that you ‘like’ it so that you can follow progress and important updates. https://www.facebook.com/ LosBarrilesDogShow. Thank You! Finally, we want to say a huge thank you to all of our very supportive sponsors including our three principal sponsors Annex Brands Inc for their design, publishing and marketing support, Hotel Palmas de Cortez for the wonderful venue and Nu Era Heat www.nueraheat.com for supporting the Disc Dogs of Mexico.
Our gold, bronze and silver sponsors include (at the time of writing this article): Gold – Homes and Land of Baja, Copper River Designs, Los Barriles Designs, Treats Natural (California) and Baja Beach Company. Silver – NuEra, Salon Cortez, La Casita. Bronze – Wolf Property Management, Lori Makabe Photography, G&T Pest Control, Sammtech, Baja’s Awesome Sportfishing, Fur Face Pet Spa, Plum Loco, www.cindysalmon.com, Caffe Encinalito. We would also like to thank our generous donors including Sam & Deb, Kathy & John, Connie & David, Holly & Steve…..
If you would like to become a sponsor or donor, become a volunteer, or if you have any questions, please email Emma at emma@bajakennelclub.com or visit our website www.bajakennelclub.com We are also on Facebook and Twitter where we will be posting regular updates.
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Protecting Your Skin By: Connie Heinen
It's that time of the year again when everyone is returning to Baja for the winter. As we all know the warm Baja climate is a welcome change to many of us who would otherwise be shoveling snow all winter. But along with the warm climate there is the sun and the damage that it can cause. We must always protect our skin with a broad-spectrum sun block that has both UVA and UVB protection and remember to re-apply during long exposures. Sun damage is accumulative and the dark spots and hyper pigmentation that you might be seeing on your skin now is probably a result of a sun burn or sun tan from childhood or a much younger age. There are many things that you can do for your skin to help reduce the signs of sun damage and aging. First of all, you can start by ALWAYS wearing your sunscreen. There are also Esthetic treatments that can help to fade the hyper pigmentation along with home care products that will greatly improve the appearance of your skin. Lactic, glycolic, and TCA peels will help to shed dead skin cells lighten the skin and smooth the texture.
like peels, facials, ultrasonic exfoliation and skin needling to further enhance results. LED stimulates the fibroblasts that produce collagen, and stimulates oxygen and blood flow to the skin which gives young skin it's plump look. This improves skin tone and clarity. Wrinkles and fine lines are softened by the increased production of collagen. Our skin has the ability to absorb light and use it to stimulate a healing response. Studies has shown that when skin is exposed to LED light, hydration is increased by up to 600% and the skin cells regenerate at a rate of 200% faster than average. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and having regular skin treatments will help reverse the signs of aging giving your skin a much more youthful appearance.
LED light treatments also help to fade dark spots as well as generate collagen and elastin production. LED stands for light emitting diodes. LED is a painless, relaxing skin-care treatment that plumps up aging skin by boosting collagen production and treats mild to moderate acne. Unlike IPL or laser treatments there is no risk of burning. LED light treatments do not generate heat. LED light therapy improves the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, acne, rosacea and sun damage. The best part? There is no downtime, no pain, and you often see results immediately. LED light therapy is gentle enough that it can be combined with other treatments
HAPPY FESTIVUS!
Feliz Navidad! Happy Hanukkah! Happy
Kwanzaa! 6
December 2016 January 2017
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Diary of a Gringo Building in Mexico Part II By: Christine Courtright
Well, this will be a short article. Not much to report, not much action. I have always heard that ‘divorce sales’ are where you get good prices. Well, we found the price part true, but don’t plan on things going smoothly, or with any speed. I can report that we finally gave the funds to the attorney and so things are proceeding. One big learning experience is that closing costs are high….not so bad for higher priced homes, but for lower priced things! We are paying approximately 30% of the agreed price in closing costs. Now, my understanding is that most of the closing costs are fixed, so if you bought a $500K home, you would pay only about 2-4% of the sale price on top of the fixed prices. And so, don’t fear the closing costs on hi-end home & land purchases. Since land here is very affordable just think of it as part of the price…. you are still getting a good deal! When we came down in October, we brought some house parts and pieces from the States that we knew would be more expensive in the Baja. But, when we went to Home Depot last week and with the exchange rate as it is, we found we didn’t save as much as we thought we would. In 2008 we bought a refrigerator in La Paz and paid about half again as much as we would have paid in the states. I am pleased to report that the price of appliances in Mexico are down. As a matter of fact, Costco had a refrigerator that was $200.00 less that that same one at Lowes back home. That is good news for us. We even found we could buy a TV here (LG brand) for about what we would pay back in the states. With the dollar so strong, things are in our favor. We met with our builder a couple of times and submitted our one big change. I was worried about him understanding my different request, but he fully understood what I wanted to do. He came up with a great solution to one of the problems we thought we would have with this change. It added a few square feet, but the change was important as it made the one closet larger and added a really cool sleeping loft. So if you can find a builder/ designer that uses a CAD program, this is great. Using CAD I was able to see what my change would look like right away & see the changes to both the inside and outside. I did not have to wait to see if I liked the proposed change – and that saves time and money. On our second visit, we reviewed our change and one improvement the builder made to the design and additionally review some nice details he added. This includes things I planned on asking for but was worried would bringing up the cost a lot! It was also great to get an inside tour on the CAD program where you can actually look through the windows to see what it all looks like. Our next meeting is at December 2016 January 2017
the lot to figure out the plot plan. We are having an outdoor kitchen, so wind is a big consideration. The least impact from wind is not the best curb appeal, so we have to see if there is a middle ground compromise. We also found that using a builder who knows their way around the permit process has its advantages, as things with our permit process seems to be moving well. This is a big deal to us as we thought last spring we could start on our house November 1st, so we are going to be 6 weeks behind. Right now, we might be able to clear the land and start on the foundation around mid-December just in time to close down for the holiday. That is fine with us because we decided to go home for Christmas since we thought we could not start until January.
We have planned on being here in LB for all the work on the house. Clearing the land and the foundation is about as much as we want to happen with us not here. We would not build a house anywhere unless we could be there to watch it happen to make sure we get what we thought we were getting and what we want. Stopping problems before they get big will save grief, money and headaches. And we are all about staying on budget! So far, our price per square foot is really reasonable. So, far!!! The next installment will be (or should be) filled with of all the great progress with the building of our casa…….hopefully!!!
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and other water sports steps away! Two great properties for Sale! See pictures, details and contacts at:
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Praying for the Next Deluge By: Jorge Bergin
It is often my pleasure to show visitors from the states a little of my personal Southern Baja California surroundings. The Laguna Mountains, about 20 miles to the west of my little village are home to rugged canyons that often hold the surprise of waterfalls and crystal streams. The trips are best in October when rains from the Pacific, from monsoons and the occasional hurricane or tropical storm or depression grace the long, thin range with everything wet from fog as thick as pogonips to thundering deluge. Every canyon has its own look; some straight, deep and narrow, others winding stair steps rising randomly to peaks more than a mile above the sea. I have witnessed droughts that leave the whole range dead and barren; the canyons no longer lush and inviting, more like wrinkles in a tattered bigtop tent strung between the hilltops. On one recent, memorable trip to a steep canyon with easy access I had the chance to swim in the movie set pools, lay out on the rocks above the water to dry and daydream. I wondered who or what used this place before I arrived. Didn’t have to look far to see that picnicking families left evidence of their day in the canyon – empty beer and pop cans were strewn about the rocks and pools. On my walk up the canyon the jungle hid any unsightly basura as it does every rainy season. I have learned to ignore it, rain or drought, everywhere I travel in Baja California while taking special note of the almost demoni
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ic habit of blatant disrespect for the land by natives and visitors. We are all guilty. The skunks and barbasuri who lived here long before human visitors, left their awful stench, the inedible parts of young water snakes and snails, tuzas and lizards and birds eggs. Likewise the first humans here left animal and fish parts carried up the canyon to sustain them when they filled their animal skins with life-giving fresh water. They filled their bellies with the tender shoots and roots of fall punkweed, not knowing when or what they would eat next. Perhaps some of them left messages on the burnt basalt rocks that make up the canyon walls. A quick study of the structure of the upper canyon tells you the water has flowed for all the 4 plus million years the finger of land was drifting west and north away from Mexico. Some granite slides and bowls have been ground deep and smooth by the constant flow of water and detritus over those eons – there is much evidence that really heavy rains at the peaks above have created incredible falls – powerful cascades of water pushing every small thing down and out of the canyon. So I guess we can all take heart in the fact that all the ugly human waste we see now will one day be down below, not up here in this timeless paradise. I’m a little guilty myself because in each unique and everlasting crease I have left something behind – a little piece of my heart. Each one holds a bittersweet mixture of emotion; ecstatic that I had the chance to visit, saddened beyond words that tourism has found this place and I know it cannot be saved.
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December 2016 January 2017
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The Intimate and True Adventures of “El Ballenero” Episode 13
Two Worlds, Two Realities, Two Minds by Urmas Kaldveer, PhD
In Episode #12 I said I would elaborate on the theme of Cetacean intelligence and present information that substantiates the major premise that WE are not the only advanced intelligence on this planet. It will be most likely that this theme will extend into future episodes for it deserves a book of its own. I recommend the book written by Dr. Scott Taylor (Souls in the Sea) as an excellent primer for the inquisitive person who does NOT want to be over loaded with graphs and scientific data but would instead enjoy a well-researched history of the interrelationship between humans and cetaceans and the science that has emerged from it. For those not interested in perusing the previous issue for the introduction of this theme I will only mention this: YES, WE ARE ONE PLANET AND ALL THINGS ARE CONNECTED, BUT THERE ARE TWO DISTINCT WORLDS on this planet, each with their own very special and very, very different physical parameters within which The Universal Life Force has manifested.
They (the cetaceans and especially the great whales), just like ourselves, have evolved to develop this intelligence to the higher levels of consciousness we call cognizance, that is, awareness of self (the classic, “I think, therefore I am”). We have BOTH followed that common evolutionary thread that results in the “Mammalian Brain” (as described by Carl Sagan in his book, “The Gardens of Eden”) gifting us with the capacity to love, hope, play, anger and all the other emotions that we consider as being only within the human behavioral realm but are shared with the Cetaceans (and other mammals too but not to the same extent). We are dead wrong in not recognizing the full implications of this commonality. Why then have they not built cities, developed advanced underwater vehicles, armor against sharks and Orcas? And there is the crux of the problem. We humans believe that our physical and mental paradigm IS the model for all those things we believe “advanced” and “worthy” of pursuing. In the world of science, particularly the neurosciences, it has become abundantly evident that the mammalian brain is not at all limited to what we humans believe is it’s function – the perpetuation of the human paradigm - “WE (humans) are the purpose and the ultimate expression of the life force on this planet” - that is so limited in perspective to be ludicrous. With that said let me provide some “facts” to support the idea that the cetaceans are indeed worthy of being recognized as “THE OTHERS”. Of paramount importance there are a number of basic things to understand: taken as separate GEOPHYSICAL/GEOGRAPHICAL realms of our Planet Earth (connected intimately in regard to the cycles that generate and maintain the “life force” =BIOSPHERE), the “TWO WORLDS” I mentioned earlier are astonishingly different in regard to the physical demands made on an intelligent creature and the limits to the expression (not inherent capabilities) of that intelligence imposed by those different demands. It might be worthwhile at this point to remember that the mammals that became The Cetaceans (whales, dolphins and porpoises), RETURNED to the Marine World after having already successfully evolved as a terrestrial animal. In a very real sense a return that required a genetic/behavioral “relearning” of how to survive in an aquatic environment. That alone was a change demanding dramatic anatomical/physiological evolution but without losing the highly successful evolutionary characteristics already developed by their land locked predecessors. Included in this would be keen eye sight, the ability to breath air and extract oxygen from it by means of internal lungs and to have internal insemination with a concomitant internal gestation period that maximized the success of a live birth. Not to mention what Neurophysiologists refer to as “The Mammalian Brain” (that part that is responsible for the higher thought processes) that began its evolution towards cognitive capabilities within these clever and increasingly successful land animals, and would one day find Continued on page 11
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it’s “current” broadest expression among terrestrial animals in Homo sapiens. All this gave those mammals that returned to the oceans a very different set of capabilities than existed in any other creatures of the seas. At the same time it required a genetic reworking of the land mammal characteristics that were no longer beneficial to the prime directive......eat, reproduce and survive. Intelligence however, had already made its mark on land as an extremely valuable characteristic among mammals particularly and was not about to be lost in this transition back to a water environment. The change demanded of land mammals returning to the seas could not have been more challenging. Did that intense challenge accelerate the development of cognitive thinking in The Cetaceans long, long before it became a factor in our own cognitive journey? Donations to my continued monitoring of the great whales of the east cape are encouraged; online – My GoFundMe site: gofund.me/6j0prg or a check made out to *MioSah, C/O Susan Janssen, 20 Highland Ct., Ukiah, CA 95482 *The Mendocino Inst. Of Science & Hst. A 501 (c) (3) CA non-profit corporation
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Bajaus the new juice bar in Town! In that cute little building, across from OXXO, is a new health food store and juice bar, you need to check out. Rogelio Granado, the owner is a chef, caterer, cooking teacher, musician and healthy food enthusiast. His shop, Bajaus, features fresh, natural and healthy drinks and foods. You will find smoothies, cold press juices, ice/frozen coffee, shakes, overnight oats and homemade granola, just to name a few and get your taste buds running. His focus is on providing fresh drinks and foods that are made from as much locally sourced ingredients as possible. And as his business grows, his menu will grow along with his selection. Just try a smoothie, and you will be hooked. His ability to mix and blend different fruits and other ingredients make for an out of this world experience. Originally from Tijuana, Rogelio moved to the East Cape area three years ago. Together with his wife, Tatiana (who is a baker), and 2 young daughters, he is making his dream of owning a healthy option eating establishment in our beautiful community come true. While working as a head chef in Tijuana he learned nutrition from the owner of the restaurant. After the birth of his girls, he realized that being and eating healthy is more important than ever. And from there Bajaus was born in Los Barriles and we all benefit.
COPPER RIVER DESIGNS JEWELRY CHRISTINE ROGERS
christinerogersbaja@yahoo.com US CELL (206) 669-1675 VONAGE (775) 772-0906 MEX. LANDLINE (624) 141-0014 check out my Facebook page
LOCATED ON CALLEJON CAMINO REAL turn east at Baja Properties and follow the signs
Hours: Monday thru Friday 9 am to 2 pm or call for appointment
evening for you and your guests. You can email him at aguacatering.eastcape@gmail.com or cell 624-213-7810 Come and check out the Bajaus, and find out for yourselves how good a smoothie can really be! * Hours are 5:30 am - 3pm * Monday - Saturday * * Check them out on Facebook *
And if that does not keep Rogelio busy, he also owns Agua Catering, a catering business for your family functions, reunions, dinner parties, weddings and events. He loves the intimate gatherings and creating a special memory for his clients. He would be more than happy to help you create a special
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Ambulancia Gratis (Free Ambulance)
Phone 624-178-6884, or radio Marine Channel 72.
The drivers are Spanish-speaking. When you call, say briefly “Ambulancia, por favor” then provide your exact location – this is critical. “Ambulancia” is pronounced Ahm-boo-LAHN’-see-ah.
The local Los Barriles ambulance is equipped with 4wheel drive, so drivers can make emergency runs into arroyos. Even boaters and those without cell service can call for help through marine radio.
Yes, Virginia, There Really is FREE Ambulance Service! By: Roxie Whiteman and Ismael Castro Ortiz
One year ago, Los Barriles’ new Mayor Francis, more formally addressed as La Delegada Francis Olachea Corillo, formed Protección Civil Los Barriles (“PCLB”), an allvolunteer group that provides free ambulance service to a broad area in the East Cape from El Cardonal to Miraflores and beyond, including Los Barriles, Buena Vista, Buenas Aires, El Coro, Boca del Alamo, Las Tinas, San Bartolo, La Ribera, Las Cuevas, Santiago and more. PCLB’s mission is to save lives. It financially maintains three ambulances based in Los Barriles, El Cardonal and San Bartolo. It coordinates with the other Protección Civil groups with ambulances in La Ribera, Santiago and Miraflores to ensure emergency services are available to help ALL community members within this broad area, regardless of their ability to pay.
Also honored for her services as Paramedic was A racely Cota Trasviña and her aide Veronica Consuelo Piñuelas Ruiz. Additional honorees are listed below. Plus, there was a big shout out to the other Protección Civil groups in La Ribera, Santiago, and Miraflores for the efforts of their drivers and helpers! Mayor Francis also presented additional important information addressed to the entire Mexican and Ex-Pat community: PCLB Resources and Urgent Need for Brakes Although these 16 special people volunteer their services without cost, the program has a budget need of 8,500 pesos (less than $450 USD at current exchange rates) per month for maintenance of three ambulances (Los Barriles, San Bartolo and El Cardonal) under their immediate care. While the mechanics who work on the ambulances generally provide free service and deep discounts on parts, the program is falling short of money and depends on the generosity of the community for donations. Subject for another day: W hy has the Municipality of La Paz let us down?! Continued on page 14
Private services such as East Cape Health Center, IMR, and others provide high quality ambulance care but require upfront fees or confirmation of insurance coverage. To ensure emergency care is available equally to Mexicans and others of modest means, efforts are underway to improve coordination between the local and fee-based ambulance services so that no one in the community is left without quality care.
How do you call for a free ambulance in an emergency? PRINT OUT THIS COUPON AND POST ON YOUR FRIDGE! December 2016 January 2017
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Currently, the 4-wheel drive ambulance based in Los Barriles needs brakes. Only one-half the cost of the brakes has been raised, and PCLB needs an additional 10,000 pesos (about $500 USD). Because the Los Barriles-based ambulance is out of service, the San Bartolo-based ambulance is doing double duty – and wait times for the extra distance are too long. In addition to the immediate need of $500 for brakes, the group is looking for people willing to make small monthly, annual or one-time donations to help cover the routine maintenance budget, as well as medical supplies, flashlights, and simple uniforms (t-shirts) so the volunteers can be identified and rushed through on their way to an emergency.
How can you help the local Ambulance service managed by PCLB?
Volunteer Recognition Award Recipients
As promised, here are the names of the 16 volunteers of Protección Civil Los Barriles who were honored on November 18 during Mexican Revolution ceremonies and we again thank them for their service: Gualberto Castro Cosio, Carlos Alberto Gonzales Garcia, Victor Manuel Cota Aquilar, Riqoberto Castro Lucero, Lino Cota Perez, Jose Manuel Gonzalez Verdugo, Ismael Castro Ortiz, Carla Maria Gonzalez Flores, Veronica Consuelo Piñuelas Ruiz, Perla Marina Trasviña Cota, Aracely Cota Trasviña, Leticia Lucero Meza, Alejandro Flores Lucero, Reinaldo Rochin, Santiago Sandez Lucero, Luis Enrique Lucero Meza.
Money - Donations can be made to LB Property Services in Los Barriles or to Aracely Cota Trasviña, PCLB Treasurer, at the City Water office in the Delegación (Los Barriles). Please consider a donation now, so the brakes can be repaired! Time - Are you interested in giving back to the community we so love by volunteering as a driver, medic, helper, or advisor? Please consider stepping up! No need for previous experience to help out! More volunteers would shorten the 48-hour driver shifts, strong arms can lift the injured onto beds, and loving hearts can calm the patient. English-speaking volunteers would greatly enhance this service. If you have medical experience, your help would be greatly appreciated to increase the availability (beyond one paramedic) of medical assistance during the hospital run. Mayor Francis can provide Mexican certification for those with medical credentials from the US or Canada. If you are interested in volunteering in any capacity, email Betto for more information at LBpropertyservices@gmail.com.
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Indians
By: Jorge Bergin The present, here and now, second by second, is the personal reality of each of us from our individual perspectives. The future, therefore, becomes predictable. It is the past that seems to be in constant change. When I was a schoolboy, Christopher Columbus was Italian, born in Genoa, Italy. Now historians say he was Spanish, born in Catalan, Northern Spain. My teachers said he was following a map made by Amerigo Vespucci. Now we know he was using a map made by Enricus Matellus – the words for India, the Indies, on his map, had come from the Indus River which runs between India and Pakistan.
gold, spices and silk from India to be delivered when he landed back in Spain. So, the Americas were and still are full of Indians. Europeans had enjoyed things from India from land journeys there by explorers of the day. When the Mongols closed the land route the Columbus brothers decided to go by The Big World Ocean from east to west. For 500 years the name still sticks --- anthropologists now call native people of the Americas A mer-Indians thanks to Chris. Indians in the U.S. now call themselves Native A mericans so maybe in another 500 years we will lose the Indian thing altogether and finally admit that Indians are from India.
On Oct. 12, 1492, Columbus’ ships landed on Watling Island, now called San Salvador Island in the Bahamas. The Bahamas are way off the coast of south Florida so that first landfall had little to do with North America. Anthropologists update almost daily who the others were that came by sea and the Bering Land Bridge and approximately when. We leave the Columbus thing alone if we just say First Europeans but there were much earlier landings and settlements from Greenland, Newfoundland, the Netherlands, Japan, China and South America to name just a few and none of those names were ever pinned on what is now the U.S., Canada or Central or South America. I’m not gonna blame today’s Anthropologists 100 percent for the Columbus thing. He named the island in the Bahamas Santa Maria de la Concepción. He thought he had landed in the East Indies or Malaysia. So, he called the people living on Watling Island Indians. The natives were Arawak who most probably came from what is now Brazil but Columbus knew Spaniards were expecting December 2016 January 2017
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“Our Community’s Starving Rescue Horses to Healthy Riding Horses” By: Theresa Comber
It was early March three and a half years ago when Tanya Benyo wrote a pleading post to the BPE that something had to be done about the two horses staked out on the highway just south of the old Pemex. Their bodies looked like they were being held together by the facing tongs of two forks, their desperate situation clearly unpalatable to people driving by. I personally hadn’t driven by because during March we’re swamped busy at East Cape Casas & RV Resort - I say our cattle guard is not to keep the cows out, but to keep me in. However, our tourism community was starting an East Cape marketing consortium and I had to drive to a meeting at Hotel Buena Vista. I held my breath as I saw those two starving horses and went by with tears shooting out of my eyes. On the return, I blocked my eyes view so as not to see them. For days I had the pleading BPE post in my mind, when I received an email from my selfappointed brother Scott
Lewis who said “Theresa, you need to do something about the horses. You know horses, and I’ll get your back to find them a safe place to land.” It took another day to build my courage, I pleaded with my own obliging husband, Shaun Speer, to come with me, (he says the only horse he’s really interested in is the 1967 convertible mustang in our garage) and over we went. Close up they were even worse than I thought, tethered on no more than 6 foot leads and had been there for nearly 2 months. The palomino mare closest to the road had pawed for attention on a big rock and her hoof was deeply and dangerously cracked. Without intervention, I felt the young sorrel horse would be dead in a week. My deep visceral reaction was one I’d never experienced before - that I am going to hit whomever is responsible for the condition of these horses. There was a man nearby fixing a car and I demanded he find some water – they were so dehydrated they were hardly able to lift their heads. When he brought five gallons of water the palomino mare drank the entire bucket in one long, deep moment. Names and faces better left unsaid, as I did in fact know the woman who owned them. Shaun held my arm so I didn’t take a swing and I just verbally let her have it. How could this be? How could she be so uncaring? A litany of excuses was proffered when our friend Betto Cota, another concerned and qualified horse lover, coincidentally also came to check on these horses. He told me later he didn’t know I had a ‘bad cop’ in me and he was happy to be ‘the good cop’. Bottom line, she said she couldn’t afford to feed them, but wouldn’t give them up so they could be fed. In utter bad faith, she extracted $600 dollars from me, Scott arranged for us to bring the horses to Jose Luis Gonzalez’ property across from his block factory and Betto retrieved a trailer for their transport. The two mares were in such weakened condition as, near sunset now, they loaded gently. As we watched “Princessa”, the palomino step up, Betto and I both were concerned as we saw her nipples looked enlarged – but clearly she was too thin to be pregnant. Ten minutes later the two weak horses were untethered and turned out under the shade of a loving tree, with endless water and abundant hay at their need. They were physically relieved. Watching them, I made a silent promise – we wouldn’t ask anything of them for a year, allowing them to recover and again become horses. The next few days a host of people from the community stepped forward with love, money, attention, carrots and care for what were now affectionately being called ‘the highway rescue horses’. We had the vet look at them and his conclusion was the same – too skinny to be pregnant and in deep need of continued loving care. On Sunday, day five of their new life in this safe, lovely, open pasture, Continued on page 17
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I coerced Shaun to come with me and we gave them baths. Shiny coats were revealed and we literally felt them relax beneath our hands with each breath. We experienced hope. At seven the next morning, Betto was knocking on our door “Come, come, we have a surprise over at the corals!” Racing over after him, it simply was unbelievable to take in – just six days after arriving, overnight Princessa had foaled. Yes. The ‘fork tong’ body was incubating a baby and here he was, a miracle with four gangly legs all wrapped in an exceptionally beautiful buckskin coat. Miracle was right, so we named him ‘Milagro’, Spanish for what surely was the miracle that saved his life. Without the ability to navigate and turn to him on her six foot rope, had the doting mother Princessa been left to foal tethered on the side of the road, surely he would have died. A month passed and our little family was growing in health and happiness. Then, drum roll please, our cinnamon red horse ‘Canela’, foaled as well. What? Seriously. Now in just 30 days we went from two horses to four. And as this little one was truly a surprise, we named her ‘Sorpresa’. But we affectionately call her ‘Pele’, after the South American soccer player. While trying to fend off a rogue stallion who had put his front legs through our barbed wire fence, Canela double bucked back and connected hoof to body with our horse loving friend Vela Lynn who at the same time was trying to help extract the stallion. Canela struck Lynn, laying her flat with broke ribs. Our foursome could not have been cuter – they elicited great community love and attention and this support buoyed our constant efforts for their feed, clean up, doctoring, hooves and the myriad details of horses. The year was rolling along when six months later a beautiful quarter horse gelding appeared outside the corral. He saw us feeding regularly and would regularly walk right into the
feeding trailer, making himself very known. He also seemed without an owner and after watching him stand in the middle of the road too many times with cars racing around him, I opened the pasture gate and invited him in. He’s big and red and we named him ‘Big Red’ and now that was more than three years ago. It took a year, we found his owners and to keep him safe we had to buy him, too. The next addition to our growing herd was caused by the nighttime visit of a large stallion that was corralled about 100 yards from our mares. There’s no morning after pills for horses, only morning after expletives to the stallion’s owner who had been admonished not to leave him there, and the following spring ‘Primavera’ was born. She’s already larger than the first two who were so malnourished during pregnancy, and she is as sweet as her springtime name. Unbeknownst to us all, the root cause of the next growth spurt happened last summer. In late winter and spring Canela really looked healthy – a ‘good feeder’ as they are called when they hold weight. However, the weight kept coming and coming, and eventually I had to admit that obviously a rogue stallion had his way with her the previous August and by the beginning of July, Canela foaled during a refreshing afternoon rain. Much to my dismay and growing exasperation, she was as beautiful and sweet as a summer day and I named her ‘Lluvia de Fresas’ – Strawberry Rain after her arrival and lovely coloring. But we knew this just couldn’t keep going on. The costly ‘green’ horse cycle was growing weary after Continued on page 18
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3 1/2 years. Lots of green bills to buy lots of green hay to then pay lots more green bills for an employee to clean up the abundant green deposits left in the corrals. Something had to be done. Domestic horses like to have something to do. Boredom isn’t really their thing – they like to have a task, to keep busy, to be challenged and to grow in mind and body. And now that we literally had a herd, in small business fashion we’ve created ‘Baja’s Awesome Beach Rides’. We hired a highly qualified full time Cowboy Caballero from Chihuahua who deeply loves horses, understands a gentle hand and has been making leaps and bounds with each horse. We’ve acquired tack, been loaned a trailer, created a design, bought all the other accoutrements to get started. A number of the horses are now ready for riding on the beaches, into the arroyos, up the hills. We will be working alongside our friend Betto, who also has rental horses, and we’re hoping our community will appreciate another great activity to add to the ones we already love. From hourly rides to our ‘Horse Lovers Discount’ for regular riders, from our specialty sunrise and sunset rides and the fun option of riding to dinner on the beach, we hope you’ll join us. We’ve come a long way with great support early on from our community. We deeply appreciate Jose Luis’ willingness to continue to be our land patron for this herd and we hope you’ll embrace our Caballero as he and his family make their lives here. Most especially, we hope you’ll come out for a ride and recommend ‘Baja’s Awesome Beach Rides’ to your family, house guests and rental guests. An important commitment remains to you. We love and respect our environment and the privilege afforded us to ride on the beaches. At day’s end, we will do a beach sweep to pick up any manure that may occur during rides. So now, as Bing Crosby sang so many years ago, “Yippy kai yo, kai yay” and “Giddy Up, let’s go for a ride!”
Buen Provecho Baja: A Progress Report By: Renée Lagloire
Thank you so much, East Cape community, for the tremendous support offered when Chef Denise Elliott, of Buen Provecho Mexican cooking and culture classes in San Bartolo, died last February. To be embraced in such a way by the community was amazing, and I am truly grateful for the outpouring of goodness. Thank you! I know that there’s curiosity about the future of Buen Provecho. The short answer is that I don’t know exactly what will happen. One of the goals has been to have the orchard be selfsupporting. To that end, I’d like to maintain and grow the VitaMix Super Soil project, where we make and sell organic composted dirt for landscaping and gardening. I’d also like to find outlets and develop products with the fruit grown in the orchard. In regards to the cooking classes, it’s clear that Denise was an event unto herself, and cannot be replaced. Soon after her death, a friend suggested I relax, and make it my job to collect and consider different ideas. So that’s what I’ve been doing. And I plan on continuing to do so. So, please, I invite you to share your ideas for the future of Buen Provecho with me. This season, I will offer a few different events and classes and will let the community know as they are scheduled through BPE, and other online sites, including Facebook “Buen Provecho Baja.” Stay tuned, and thank you again! (Comments? Info@buenprovechobaja.com.)
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Mining Railroads in BCS Anthology, Winter 2008 One of the most interesting historic regions in Baja California Sur lies in and around the towns of El Triunfo and San Antonio. It was here that gold and silver were discovered in Santa Ma, south of San Antonio in 1747 by Manuel de Osio, an entrepreneur from Spain. More than a century was to pass before more intensive mining methods were introduced to the area. In 1862, the Triunfo Gold & Silver Mining Company became the first of a succession of San Francisco based companies, which attempted to set up mining operations in the area south of La Paz. During 1863, when the facilities at El Triunfo were in their infancy, mining engineer Alexander McElroy, the firm’s superintendent, was reported to have laid down rails inside one of the mines. Although it was a modest and apparently unsuccessful initial venture, it formed the impetus for expanded mining related rail development, which continued for the next half-century in the San Antonio – El Triunfo area. The Compañia El Progreso, which took over mining operations in the region in 1878, was the most successful of all the other previous owners. The Company experienced its best years during the 1880s. The underground workings covered 25 to 30 miles. Plant and equipment were valued at over $250,000 dollars. A thousand men were employed year-round, assisted by 350 mules used in various transportation capacities. In 1884, $30,000 to $40.000 dollars a month in bullion was shipped to San Francisco. By all accounts, the Compañia El Progreso was a very successful venture. When silver prices dropped in the 1890s, seriously crippling the operation of the Company the Mexican government stepped in, granting a new, more liberal concession to the firm, hoping to keep it in operation. Rail transportation was an important part of the Company’s operation. The original light-rail trains were powered by mules. By the late 1890s, the various underground mines were connected by a complete narrow-gage steam railroad. Secondhand equipment from the Comstock Lode in Nevada was used to convey the ore to the smelters. The principal route of the Company extended from the smelter in El Triunfo, through the Soledad, Codicia and Tiro 96 mines, with a terminal at Mina Humboldt just north of the summit on Highway 1 between El Triunfo and San Antonio. A branch extended to the east and south, bringing the La Cholla and Marroneña mines into the system.
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The decline of the Compañia El Progreso was well underway by 1912 when it passed into the hands of the Compañia de Minas del Triunfo. By this time, the railroad had reverted to animal traction. Underground water and flooding had long been critical problems and by this time most of the mine’s were inundated. The final blow to the operation, marginal as it was, apparently came in 1918 when a tropical storm partially destroyed the headquarters building.
Today, little of the original buildings and facilities remain, except for two large brick smokestacks, one designed by Gustave Eiffel. However, elements of the railroad right-of-way remain, including two beautiful stone-brick arch bridges, which can be seen during the dry season from a wide turnout on the highway between Kilometer 61 and 62 northeast of El Triunfo. Had the El Triunfo mining operation prospered during the 1890s, the mine railroad might have become a link in a much more ambitious project. Back then, there were several unfulfilled railroad concessions granted by Mexico City. The most elaborate was issued in 1894 calling for a line to run between La Paz and El Triunfo with rights to continue as far as Todos Santos or Pescadero on the Pacific. Three months later the concession was cancelled by the promoters, because of the “lack of laborers and the total absence of elements of life” found in the Territory of Baja California. This brought to an end the short-lived hopes for a railroad linking La Paz to the soon to be developed areas of what would later become the state of Baja California Sur.
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RESTAURANT EL NAVEGANTE
A unique dining experience awaits you, as you enjoy the culinary creations of our own Chef Dahli as he prepares his Beef, Chicken, Sea Food & Mexican dishes, with his own creative style & flair. Come & dine “Al Fresco” on our beach front terrace for an enjoyable night out! Join us at your leisure for Breakfast, Lunch, Appetizers, Happy Hour or Dinner, at Buena Vista Beach Resort. The place to be in the East Cape!
*Monday is “Fajita Night” (starting Nov. 7th)
Join us every Monday night for Chef Dahli’s delicious Beef, Shrimp & Chicken Fajitas as you dine al fresco on our beach front terrace while enjoying live music!
*Monday night football* Come to our main bar to watch football on Monday night, special price on beer and wine during game
*”Happy Hour” Every day from 4Ͳ6pm
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Come & enjoy the ambiance of our main bar with 2 for 1 drinks and order something tasty off our appetizer menu to get things started! December 2016 January 2017
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Joe’s Pizza By: Chris Courtright
You know Joe’s Deli, well now Jose is taking that same attention to detail and superb customer service to his new venture, Pizza! Joe’s Pizza is easy to find, in Plaza del Pueblo – across from the fountain- and with plenty of parking. The hours are 11am – 10pm, and closed on Tuesdays. The menu will focus on pizza, pasta, salad and subs. All made out of top quality, locally sourced, when possible, and fresh ingredients. Starting with the crust, which is made from Italian flour, to the home-made pizza sauce and the cheese. All imported ingredients, all the best, all fresh, all delicious! They offer 9 traditional pizzas, and will have special unique varieties including a Greek style or Thai style. They offer vegetarian, gluten free and vegan pizzas, all made with non-GMO flour. Additionally, they offer micro brews from Baja Brewing Company along with selections of wines! This is Jose’s first run as a restaurateur. He felt it was the right move for the family business to branch out and provide LB with good pizza and his ‘spin’ on it. He says his menu is still a work in progress as he adds and deletes items and as he gathers customer input. His business philosophy is providing a service based business, a quality product, consistency and is customer feedback driven. “In a small community, it is easier for a business to make their customers happy”, Jose says, “I could not do that in a big city, and that is one of the reasons I love it here”. And making customers happy is exactly what he is doing. There are lunch specials daily – all for less than $100 pesos. A slice of pizza and drink is $50 pesos!! The future brings musical events, more wine choices and lots of great food for all of us to enjoy! Now, how about pizza for dinner??!!
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LEAD A HEALTHY LIFE EVERYDAY! By: Sefi Held
Living a healthy life style is not that difficult, in fact it is right in front of us, ready to be had, if we only fully understood what it takes to obtain it. A healthy lifestyle has three components; physical, emotional and social. To have two components and lack the third is not living a healthy life style. You need a balance of all three. At times, the balance between the three healthy life styles may not be in sinc as life throws curves at us, but over the long haul, the balance between the three components needs to be restored or depression, unhappiness and ill health will occur. Like most things in life, living a healthy life style takes a conscious effort, commitment and practice. At times it will certainly not be easy, especially when life throws those unexpected curve balls at us. That is why it is important to get into a routine and make it a habit to live in a healthy way. By doing this you will be ready when those unexpected events occur that throw us off the rails and it will be easier to get back on track and get redirected toward a healthy lifestyle again. Here are four very easy ways to make that happen: EXERCISE - muscle resistance and cardio to elevate your heart rate. Research has shown that exercise helps slow the aging process both physically and cognitively. However, for exercise to have its most powerful effect it must be done regularly and involve both muscle resistance and cardio vascular type exercises. Alternate muscle resistance and cardio exercises daily. It is a well know fact that the muscles of the body atrophy (get smaller) after the age of thirty at the rate of 10% per decade. The best way to slow down this muscle deterioration is by performing some resistance type exercise at least twice a week. The resistance can take the form of our body weight (push-ups), resistance bands, and external weights such as dumbbells and machines. Our heart muscle also weakens as we age and our arteries start to become harder (atherosclerosis). Cardio vascular exercise is necessary to help maintain a healthy vascular system. The basic protocol call is to raise your heart rate with a target zone of 60 - 80% for a minimum of 20 minutes at least three times per week. One of the best ways to do this is to just walk at a brisk pace but any activity that you enjoy and elevates your heart rate is going to be beneficial. SLEEP - quantity and quality are important. Research once again has clearly shown that our body and brain need between 7 and 8 good quality hours of sleep per day. Unfortunately, with our busy lives, sleep is often the first thing to be compromised as we burn the candle at both ends. Short term we can accommodate and adjust, but long term, the negative effects of too little sleep December 2016 January 2017
Emergencies can happen anytime of the day or night! Suddenly a drunk driver comes out of nowhere, or you feel excruciating pain down your left arm, or a horrendous sudden headache knocks you out! Somehow you're taken to an emergency room and your life is saved, but now what? You require continuing hospitalization. You want to go home to the US or Canada. Now the insurance battle begins! Do you have out of home country insurance? Have you been gone too long and not realize you no longer have coverage? Is it a pre-existing condition? Can you be treated where you are already hospitalized? Are you limited to only a transport to the closest facility capable of treating you? If any of those things are a possibility, you need Travel MedEvac! We'll get you home in an ICU equipped air ambulance with no co-pay, no deductible, no claim forms! Contact me for further information. Cathie Smith LoCicero, VIP Director Sales Mexico - Call me 575-993-8227 or email cathie@cathiesmithinsurance.com See our plans and other types of Mexico insurance at www.cathiesmithinsurance.com
catches up with us. Some of the negative physiological and cognitive effects of too little sleep are: 1. Decreased concentration 2. Lowered immune system 3. Increased risk of stroke and heart attacks 4. Decreased energy 5. Increased depression 6. Memory loss 7. Fluid retention 8. Decreased Human Growth Hormone 9. Weight gain 10. Decreased libido EAT - how much you eat is just as important as what you eat. The saying “You are what you eat� is true. Over the long term, the effect of a poor diet and eating too much become increasingly noticeable including, over weight, Type 2 diabetes, lower metabolism, cognitive impairment, sleep disturbances and lower self image and self esteem. A diet of 60% carbohydrates, 30% Protein and 10% fat is generally a good rule of thumb to follow. Continued on page 26
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As well, you want to restrict your intake of non-natural sugars (sugars not naturally found in the food you are eating), foods containing trans-fats, alcohol and caffeine. It is important to note that your diet can vary based on your level of physical activity and individual physiological factors. UNPLUG - technology dominates the world so don’t let it dominate YOU! Technology is such a big part of our world but it does not have to dictate who we are or how we live our lives. We need to learn to control technology and NOT have it control us. Have you noticed the frequency with which you look at your cell phone to see if you have received a text or email, or maybe you have a wrist bit that is in sinc with your phone just so that you are always in the “Loop”. Do you really need to answer that text or email you just received in milliseconds. What is the big rush? Yes, there are times when monitoring or responding is necessary but that is generally the minority of the time. Sitting in front of our computers surfing and watching TV when there is nothing we want to watch are just more examples of times when we could unplug ourselves and free up the time to exercise, meditate, learn something new or just communicate in person with family or friends. Let’s all make a conscious effort to stay healthy in paradise.
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Peso – Good for Gringos, bad for Locals From: Baja Insider
Since June of 2014, the pesos has been falling against the dollar, from a long time 12.5:1 exchange rate to crest at 21:1 exchange rate following the US elections in the second week of November 2016. For US travelers and retirees in Mexico, this is a boon. When exchanging dollars into pesos you are now over 20:1 and climbing. And with Mexico's inflation rate around 4% (they say), those US dollars are going a lot further on food, rent, and services. Here in Mexico foreign, (US made) products are much more expensive, rising with the exchange rate and commodity products like beef have risen right along with the dollar. But to a great extent, your stay in Mexico is still on sale at 30-40% off. Even our 'expensive' gasoline seems a bargain to US travelers. For many years Mexico, being an oil producing nation, had gasoline at a fraction of the price that US consumers paid just across the border in California. But since Mexican oil is more expensive to pull out of the ground than is supported by the current world market price, our gasoline has reached its highest price ever – in pesos. But with the current price of regular at $13.98 pesos per liter and purchased at the exchange rate
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of 20:1, yields an actual price for those earnings in dollars is just $2.64USD per gallon. A real plus for a Baja Road Trip. Real estate, resort destinations and big tourist towns like Cabo are well savvy to the fluctuating value of the peso/dollar and tend to think in dollars when setting prices. So you might find your exchange rate savings mitigated in those purchases. Making the Exchange is Making Money Making your exchange from dollars to pesos is the key to maximizing your gain. Here are the best ways we have discovered to get your dollars turned into pesos. Your bank card can be the best option IF your bank doesn't have abusive exchange policies. Because I live in Mexico I researched several bank Visa cards to find one with nominal international & transaction fees. Credit and debit transactions on cards usually offer an exchange rate at or near the Interbank exchange rate, plus a fee. That fee is something you should know before coming to Mexico. In 2015 new Mexican tax rules came into place and most stores and restaurants in tourist destination will have the ability to take your plastic payment. But tourist destinations also tend to be petty crime destinations. Check your billing online regularly to be sure your card is not being abused. With the new PIN electronic signatures, I have found it more difficult to prove a change was not your own. Report discrepancies promptly. Continued on page 28
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Mexican Banks Making a currency exchange in Mexican banks has become more difficult. Some banks require you to have an account to change money. My bank no longer does cash advances for noncustomers. Banorte usually posts the tightest spread each side of the Interbank exchange rate (about +0.4 for buy pesos and -0.4 for buy dollars) but they are also the most slective on who they do business with. Casa de Cambio (Exchange Houses) This all depends on local competition. Here in La Paz, there are few exchange houses and you will find their rates very close to that of the banks. But for non-account bearing travelers, there may be the only bet and the only game on Saturdays and Sundays. In a recent visit to Tijuana, Ensenada and the surrounding regions, we found a widespread, in the exchange rate offered, with the best rates closest to the border. I would not recommend the airport exchange houses, as they have you as a captive audience and I found both Los Cabos' and Tijuana's inairport exchange rates insulting. Walmart. As much as I hate to give them a plug, their exchange rate on purchases is the best you will find and in an informal price survey we found their US made products also offered at a more competitive price than other markets.
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Beto Castro
Your Local TV connection Los Barriles BCS 044 624 358 2900 044 624 175 6172 ESP. / ENG e-mail antennacare@gmail.com
Rentals, Receivers, Remotes, LNB, New Antennas, Alignments
Point of Purchase Exchange This used to be the way to go, with local merchants craving US dollars. But today it is going to get you taken to the cleaners. I have seen Pemex offering 17.5:1 when the exchange was closer to 19:1. A local auto parts store was offering 17:1 the same day... close to highway robbery. Just for amusement, I like to include traveler's checks in this discussion and provide you one minute to stop laughing. Do they still sell them? They never were very widely accepted in Baja. So the fall of the peso can make it a great time to come visit Baja, make a road trip of it or enjoy the hospitality of the smaller restaurants and boutique hotels. And despite the political fallout causing these wild fluctuations in the currency the welcoming hospitality of the people of the peninsula is a constant.
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East Cape Guild, A.C. Supporting Our Local Community’s Future By Irene DeAndero
Wouldn’t you love to see every deserving Mexican child, those ambitious hard workers throughout their early years in school, have a chance to complete their education and go on to a bright future as a contributing member of our community? So would we, but it can’t happen without your support and generosity. The Mexican federal system pays for children’s education only through the 9th grade. To attend grades 10-12, it becomes the financial responsibility of the families. If you live or visit in our beautiful East Cape communities, you know that it would be an extreme, if not impossible, financial strain for many of our local families to afford the extra cost of $500 per child per year. These young people then have no hope of fulfilling their dreams of becoming a veterinarian, doctor, accountant, teacher etc. And they are the future of the East Cape and of Mexico!
You can also help by joining us in the Guild and being part of the team , making a U.S. tax-deductible donation through the International Community Foundation (ICF) at www.icfdn.org or go to our website eastcapeguild.com for other ways to donate. You’re welcome to contact me with any questions: Irene DeAndero at dacebob@gmail.com
Our passion is Education, in particular to cover the cost of scholarships (becas) for these students to enable them to realize their potential and rise above a life of unskilled, low wage labor. The East Cape Guild, A.C. founded in 1997, is a nonprofit association that over the years has provided scholarships to over 2000 students. In May of this year, we were proud to support all 175 who qualified, 9 of whom were adults who had either previously dropped out or were never given the opportunity. Many of us say to ourselves, “I would love to help my housekeeper, gardener or bartender’s kids get a better education by going to high school, but what can I do?” Here’s the way: Attend the Guild’s fundraiser events held throughout the year. Not only are the Bocce Ball Tournament, Monte Carlo night and Baja Haha Golf Tournament fun, it’s a great chance to meet people, make new friends and become more a part of this unique, lovely place. Plus you can win some fantastic prizes! Ok, I lied a little there. Maybe not so fantastic but hey, it’s a fundraiser, you know?
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Palapa Learning Center of Todos Santos Open House on January 4, 2017 By: Kathy Warnert and Ann Hazard
A major expansion is underway at the Palapa Society of Todos Santos, A.C. Construction on the Palapa Learning Center, the largest project ever undertaken by the Palapa Society, has reached the mid-point. When completed, it will dramatically transform the lives of even more local youth and their families. Think back, if you will, to your formative years when a pivotal person stepped in, or an opportunity arose that was life-changing. It helped shape who you would become for the rest of your life. Perhaps it was a teacher or coach, a family vacation or early passion, a live performance or inspiring event. These milestone moments, and the adults who helped make them happen, impacted and influenced who you are today. Every young person deserves these same positive influences and opportunities. The Palapa Society aims to provide them to our local youth through the new Palapa Learning Center. Let’s Celebrate! Please help us ring in the New Year with an Open House on Wednesday, January 4, 2017 from 3 - 5 pm. That day we are opening the site of the future Palapa Learning Center to everyone. Enjoy refreshments, meet the Director, and tour the three buildings under construction. We'll have bilingual docents on hand to provide information on how each space will be utilized. Meet the people behind the scenes whose hard work and dedication are making this dream a reality. Why the expansion? The Palapa Society began in 2002 with the Bridge to English (Puente) Program, then housed in a small home downtown. The program caught on and soon a larger space was needed. In 2012, Peter and Chloe Buck generously provided the current building for a five year period. The Palapa Society grew to six programs including: Puente Program with over 120 students from elementary to high school learning English BECA program offering over 60 High School and 20+ University scholarships Adult English program with 50+ students annually Community Library with over 6000 books and hundreds of videos in English and Spanish Art Program Eco-Kids Chino program serving children with health challenges The Palapa Society also provides community support. For example, after Hurricane Odile, emergency supplies were provided and over 200 roofs replaced. Additional, on-demand needs are also fulfilled in real time.
A major step in the evolution of the Palapa Society oc-
curred in 2015 as a result of a significant donation from a local couple, Cindy and Dave Higgins. The Higgins’ identified a need to not only expand the space for current programs, but also offer a more rigorous education option to community youth by creating a middle and high school.
The Palapa Society’s Response: Build, staff and operate a high quality, SEP-certified middle and high school in Todos Santos. Scholarships will be granted to students of merit who lack financial means, thus equalizing the playing field for all students to attend. “We are so grateful to the Palapa Society for all that it is doing to make the Palapa Learning Center a reality. Over the years we've watched how they’ve made a difference in Todos Santos and are proud to support this next chapter with the Palapa Learning Center," says Cindy Higgins. Where is the project today? The land has been purchased, all three buildings are underway, a Director of Schools has been hired, curriculum written, and the first class will begin in August of 2017.
Learning at the current center Continued on page 31
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Read the color version online at www.eastcapearts.com Learning Palapa Center Continued:
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This is exciting and life changing on many levels. Young people in Todos Santos will have opportunities they could never imagine before. Long-term, we expect young adults will want to return to Todos Santos after university, start businesses and raise families, thus retaining our community’s intellectual and economic potential. Palapa Society President, Erick Ochoa says, “Through education, the Society has helped local families pursue a better life for their children. With the help of the Higgins', we are able to offer another solid option. We are witnessing how investing in the education of our youth is making this an even better place to live." We hope to see you at the Palapa Learning Center Open House on Wednesday, January 4, 2017 from 3 - 5 pm. We are located on Calle del Huerto (by the fish taco stand bypass) next to Aliser Grocery in Todos Santos. We welcome everyone in the community to attend. For more information or to DONATE, go to http:// www.palapasociety.org and click the DONATE tab. Donations are tax deductible and can be made online or at Bancomer.
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Las Posadas - Celebrating Christmas in Mexico By: Mexonline.com
The first thing to know about celebrating Christmas in Mexico is that most everybody takes off the last two weeks in December - spend more time with the family, visit with old friends, even make new friends. One of the biggest fiestas of the year - in small towns, big cities, the beach resorts, everywhere - Christmas in Mexico is celebrated in a variety of ways. A common denominator is the posada, a recreation of Mary (on donkey) and Joseph searching for a "room at the inn." Accompanying them is a choir of small children who knock on doors asking for lodging for the weary couple. By previous arrangement, there are no takers. The procession, which takes place during the 12 days before Christmas, moves along, growing in numbers until it reaches the church, where mass is held. After the service, the children get to enjoy a festive pinata party. Even though variations of this tableaux are repeated throughout the country, you can expect to find some regional differences, which makes a Mexican Christmas not only a cross cultural mix, but a varied and interesting experience. Year after year. Region after region.
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For example, in the Ajijic area, a "riviera resort community" suburb of Guadalajara, in the little village of San Antonio, the posada is a most moving and spiritual experience. Same for Taxco and Queretaro. Catch the event in t hese areas if you can. Also in Queretaro, there's a huge parade on December 23. In the town of Cajititlan (near Guadalajara), as in many other places in the Hispanic world, they celebrate the holidays on Three Kings Day (Epiphany), which falls on January 6th. In fact, this was the traditional time to celebrate the gift-giving aspect of Christmas throughout Mexico. But in most parts of the country, the holiday now coincides with the day of celebration north-of-the-border: December 25. Many children now expect gifts on both days. The ritual often begins in the afternoon or at dinner time when the family shares a rosca or two (a rosca is a sweet, ring-shaped loaf with a ceramic muneca (doll) representing the Christ child baked inside). Unlike a cracker-jack box where the winner takes all, whoever is unlucky enough to get the doll has to throw a party on February 2 (Dia de Candelaria) for all the others present. In this case, the "winner", who has to foot the time and expense, is often the loser. (Note: on the afternoon of Dia de Candelaria, dancers gather for a performance in the churchyard. Sometimes as many as six different dance groups perform at the same time. The dancers are divided among those portraying Christians and Moors, each competing for the most attention. Other groups are represented as well. In small towns where this festival is held, there's also a special market on that day.) The party itself usually includes some favorite dish spiced with a zesty regional mole sauce. The fiesta for the V irgin de la Soledad, the patron saint of Oaxaca, December 16-18, signals the beginning of the navidad festivities. The highlight, again, is the posada, held at a different church each night from December 18-24. On December 23, the annual Noche de los Rabanos takes place. This is a very festive time when booths are set up along the length and breadth of the zocalo. The focal point of each booth is an exhibit of hand-carved, giant radishes. Most often, these sculptures carry a religious theme. But this is not necessarily so. The subject could be comical, a scene from a bullfight or anything that strikes the fancy of the sculptor. On Nochebuena, processions from various churches fan out to the zocalo. There are also colorfullydecorated floats, music, traditional dancing, and pinata prizes. The crowning glory of this fiesta is a mammoth firework display. Even the capital of Mexico City takes on a festive air with the famed zocalo (or sometimes called the Plaza de la Constitucion) ablaze with a sea of colorful lights festooning this ancient square. The festival of lights goes on throughout the Christmas/New Year's period. In addition, there's a colorful flag-raising/lowering ceremony every morning and afternoon during the holidays. The rest of the city is similarly decorated. And, of course, traditional services are held in the city's many churches December 2016 January 2017
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My Experience with the New Hospital H+ in Cabo By: Charlene Wenger
In the past year, we have experienced an increasing number of medical emergencies. The impact of life threatening accidents or deaths of friends or family members can be devastating. We listen to the stories behind each and every person we help and appreciated your feedback to guide us in making crucial decisions, especially during a very stressful time. Even non-life threatening hospitalizations can be upsetting. WE HEAR YOU and have made working relations with the new H+ Hospital in Cabo and FidePaz in La Paz. Both, very honest and affordable alternatives for anyone. ONE ESSENTIAL INGREDIENT IS having comprehensive Mexican /International Health Insurance OR Air Evacuation Coverage. Stateside insurance that covers only in the US or by reimbursement in emergency situations can have a huge financial impact to an already devastating situation. My accidental fall was proof enough to me how important this is. On September 8, while cleaning up in my yard after Hurricane Newt, my flip flop entangled in the garden hose throwing me airborne. Instinctively, I saved myself from injury to my head or neck on the cement by putting my arms behind me. This resulted in compound fracture dislocation of both wrists and several herniated discs and torn ligaments in my back. I was fortunate and grateful my injuries were not life threatening.
I managed to get to my phone and dialed the Clinic, within minutes the team arrived. I was taken to our clinic to be stabilized with bulky splints, securing my fractures during transport. We headed to Hospital H+, a highly recommended choice for my injuries. I have added this as our #1 affordable hospital for emergencies, diagnostics and referral for specialty clinics. After almost a month as an inpatient and three successful surgeries on my hands, arms and spine I was able to walk in my own front door on Oct 1st . My care was superb in the ER at Hospital H+ with over qualified specialists and nurses. After X-Rays, diagnostics and lab I was in surgery within 1 hour. The following Tues my spine surgery was scheduled, another very successful outcome. Dr. Enrique Toledo, Dr. Luis Cardenas and Dr. Carlos Parga were beyond exceptional in the OR repairing several damaged discs and ligaments. My third surgery with Dr. Cardenas has allowed stabilization to my new wrists with high tech devices called EXTERNAL FIXATORS. The medical team, along with the pain management team made daily visits just to ensure my comfortable. Continued on page 34
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Recycle and share with a friend or return to East Capers Rack! Experience with Hospital H+ Continued:
Best of all, my International Health Insurance deductible was all I paid. Hospital H+ takes every effort as a Credentialed hospital to utilize all types of insurances, maintaining the highest standard of care. All at a fraction of the costs I've seen in Cabo over the years. I presented my insurance card and they did the rest. Not one blip on the radar. There are no doubts about the administration, billing, qualified medical specialists, outstanding state of the art diagnostics, surgical capabilities and inpatient recovery, proven to me during my extended stay. The nursing, nutritional, and housekeeping services all became my special friends and helped me feel comfortable and secure with my personalized care. My take away message is to encourage you all, whether full or part time residents, to seriously consider some sort of insurance coverage. Part of my Clinic work is to advise options to promote and represent both International Health Insurance and Travel MedEvac coverage. It is well worth the few thousand dollars I pay each year to take care of my medical needs in time of crisis and rehabilitation. After my experience, I feel very strongly about what I learned from my experience. Please listen as we care about YOU and want to help!!
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We make a living by what we get, But we make a life by what we give. -Winston Churchill
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Baja Shakespeare 2017 By: Kim Scholefield
Calling all cast & crew! Are you new to the area? A long time resident ready to bust a move on stage? Looking for fun and entertainment? Consider joining our local community theatre troupe Baja Shakespeare, now in our 17th consecutive season! This year’s production, locally written, is “Snow White and the Seven Mariachis”. You thought you knew the Snow White fairy tale? Get ready for a whirlwind, original fantasy; add MacBeth’s Witches Lair, forest fairies, a motley disillusioned Mariachi band who find their groove, live memorable music mixed with local Baja folklore and humor and you have Baja Shakespeare at its finest! This production is guaranteed to have you toe tapping, singing along and laughing out loud. Auditions will be held with Director and long time Baja Shakespearean, Camilla Ford, Thursday December 29, 10am, upstairs at Sara’s Café. Enthusiastic new cast members are always welcome. If getting up on stage is not for you, consider joining the backstage fun. The more the merrier! Rehearsals begin Saturday February 25, 2017. Returning Musical Director, the talented Jeanette Grittani will be leading The Merry Mariachis. As well as,
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choreographer Robin Jackman can train your two left feet to do a jig. Costumer Colleen Baltzer is taking measurements and Ella Adams is sewing fairy wings! This lively production will open Friday March 10, Saturday 11, Sunday 12, Thursday March 16, Friday 17 with closing night, Saturday March 18. Mark your calendars now! Many of these shows sell out. Baja Shakespeare is rockin’ and rollin’ for year 17, we’re never too old to act half our age! Stay tuned! If you would like more information about auditions, rehearsals or Baja Shakespeare, please email Kim: tyfield1@hotmail.com
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More Facts About Mexico
During an Aztec human sacrifice, five priests, sometimes with their faces painted with different colors, held the sacrificial victims’ arms and legs. The heart, referred to as “precious eagle cactus fruit,” was cut from the live victim and burned on a fire in the temple.
Mexico is second only to Brazil in the number of Catholic citizens.
One unusual Mayan weapon was a “hornet bomb,” which was an actual hornet’s nest thrown at enemies during battle.
Mexico is the 14th largest country in the world by total area.
The first great civilization in Mexico were the Olmecs (1400-300 B.C.) who established many cities along the eastern coast of Mexico, sculpted the famous Colossal Heads, and worshipped a mysterious, unnamed god that was part human and part jaguar.
The official name of Mexico is Estados Únidos Mexicanos (United Mexican States).
Only ten countries in the world have a larger population than Mexico’s 109,955,400 people.
By: Karin Lehnardt
Shells and stones on the Aztecs' ritual blades symbolized the faces of the gods for which the sacrificial hearts were intended. They would sacrifice between 10,000 to 50,000 victims per year. Under the rule of Montezuma II, 12,000 victims were sacrificed in one day
The Aztecs played ritual ball game known as tlachtli in which the losers were often sacrificed to the gods
Mexico remained under Spanish control for nearly 300 years until the Mexican people, led by a priest named Father Hidalgo, rose up against the Spanish on September 16, 1810. Hidalgo is widely considered the father of modern Mexico, and Mexican Independence is celebrated on September 15-16.
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Spanish conquerors brought bullfighting to Mexico, and, second to Spain, Mexico now has the most bullfighting rings in the world. Bullfighting takes place from November to April, and the Plaza Mexico is the largest bullring in the world. The largest pyramid in the world is the Great Pyramid of Cholula in Mexico. It is also the largest monument ever constructed in the world.
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Los Barriles Kiteboarding for Kids By: Kim Scholefield
LB Kiteboarding for Kids is a non-profit, after school program created in 2012, by Ian and Megan, from ExotiKite Kiteboarding. This inexpensive, successful program has introduced our local kids to the joys and challenges of kiteboarding while offering a positive outlet to expend their energy. With the popularity of Lord of the Wind and the ever inclusive Cursos de Verano offered by Asociación de Artes and Recycling, it is essential to keep the kids engaged in their community. ExotiKite continues to fulfill this role. Kiteboarding for Kids asks that the students be between the ages of 14-18 years, be able to swim and be comfortable in the water, be responsible and willing to learn and have the support of the family to pick up and drop off. This program is free to the student and family. ExotiKite provides the equipment and everything the student needs to learn. Emphasis is on safety and competence. The instructors are professional, certified, Spanish speaking and the only cost of the program is their wages. ExotiKite's annual Season Opening Party, complete with Big Jim's band and pig roast dinner, will be Thursday December 8, at La Playa. All welcome! At this time, ExotiKite will offer a Silent Auction with 100% of the proceeds going to this wonderful program. There are 3 ways you may contribute to the success of LB Kiteboarding for Kids: 1) offer a silent auction item or service (contact Kim: tyfield1@hotmail.com for pick up) 2) come to the party and bid on some items! 3) contact Megan directly, any contribution small or large will be gratefully accepted: losbarrileskiteboarding@gmail.com
Kings Day in Mexico From About Travel.com
January 6th is Three Kings Day in Mexico, known as the Día de Reyes. This is Epiphany on the church calendar, the 12th day after Christmas, when the Magi arrived bearing gifts for baby Jesus. In Mexico children receive gifts on this day, brought by the three kings, los Reyes Magos, Melchor, Gaspar, and Baltazar. Some children receive gifts from both Santa Claus and the Kings, but Santa is seen as an imported custom, and the traditional day for Mexican children to receive gifts is January 6. Arrival of the 3 Kings: In the days, preceding Kings Day, children write letters to the Magi requesting a toy or gift that they would like. On the night of January 5th, the figures of the Wise Men are placed in the nativity scene. Traditionally children would leave out their shoes with a bit of hay in them to feed the animals of the Magi (they are often shown with a camel). When the children would wake up in the morning their gifts appeared in place of the hay. Nowadays, like Santa Claus, the Kings tend to place their gifts under the Christmas tree. Rosca de Reyes: On Kings Day it is customary to eat Rosca de Reyes, a sweet bread shaped like a wreath, with candied fruit on top, and a figurine of a baby Jesus baked inside. The person who finds the figurine is expected to host a party on Día de la Candelaria (Candlemas), celebrated on February 2nd, when tamales are served.
Now in its 5th year, the number of students has varied from 6-16. Last season 6 students started, with 3 becoming completely independent, accessing donated kiting gear from Baja Sports. This is terrific success! The number of students ExotiKite takes on this year will depend upon your support. We hope you decide to include us in your ever-generous contributions to the many worthwhile programs in our growing community. Thank you
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From Trash to Compost: Buen Provecho Organic VitaMix Super Soil
By: Renée Lagloire Yesterday, while walking through the orchard at Buen Provecho in San Bartolo, I was struck by how my perspective on the fallen leaves has changed. When I first saw the orchard, I was overwhelmed at the amount of leaves on the ground. “Yes, there’s a lot of trash here, it needs to be raked and burned,” I was told by locals. I remember thinking at the time that it seemed a shame to burn the leaves when they could be used to make compost. But things change. And now, more than two years later, when I look at the leaves, I think: “Wow, look at all of that material for the VitaMix Super Soil!” Soon after purchasing the property, we made a small batch of compost for the garden and landscape using as a base what I now call “orchard bottom,” namely the leaves and sticks from the mango, papaya, guava and avocado trees, mixed with animal droppings and other organic materials. Watered, the mixture is left to “cook,” a process of organic materials breaking down where the mound of matter literally feels hot. The compost is turned about once a week. When the mounds cool down, the hand-crafted composted soil is ready for use. The result is a dark brown soil that is beautiful, rich in nutrients, and smells amazing! Our first batch took about 10 months to be ready. We now use a chipper for the leaves and sticks, so the whole process has been accelerated, taking four to five weeks to complete. While we began to make the compost for personal use, visitors and friends started asking for soil for their own gardens and landscapes. That is when we spoke to Armando Molina at Electrica y Plomeria Los Barriles (EPB) on the Trans Peninsular Highway about retailing bags of the compost in his hardware store. He readily agreed, and has kindly worked with us, carrying 30 kilo and 5 kilo bags of the VitaMix Super Soil for the past year. We are grateful to the community for their support of this small enterprise and encourage you to visit EPB and pick up some of the VitaMix Super Soil for your garden and landscape. `
All About the Agave By: JoAnn Hyslop (Dec/Jan 2006)
For the last few weeks, we have been watching one of our Agave plants put forth its once-in-a-lifetime stalk of blossoms. “Yahoo,” we thought, “this year we’ll have our very own ‘Baja Christmas Tree’.” The first thing we noticed was an asparagus-like spear growing up from the center. After a few weeks, green stalks began to appear out of little “envelopes” along the sides of the spear, topped by green clumps of closed blossoms. The flower stalk has grown a foot a day and is now about seven meters tall. The creamy yellow blossoms are almost ready to burst open. Soon bats will be hovering around at night, waiting for a taste of the sweet nectar at the base of each flower. “But,” you say, “I don’t know anything about the Agave plant except what I see on a bottle of Tequila.” Surprise, I’m about to enlighten you! Agaves have played an important role in the Mexican economy since ancient times as a source of food. The Agave plant is mentioned in early Jesuit accounts of native food resources. It can actually provide food during several of its different growth stages. Early Indian groups often survived for months without any other food. It remains a staple food for peninsular ranchers and itinerant travelers, especially during the dry season. The most common practice is to remove the leaves with a machete and pry the base out with a shovel. The crown at the base is pitroasted for at least a day. The taste is like a juicy, tart yam. Another source of food is the asparagus-stage spear before it begins to produce flower stems. When it reached around two or three meters in height, it was also pit-roasted. A cake was sometimes made by mashing the spear. Early missionaries reported that Indians also used crushed Agave leaves as an emergency source of water. After the flowers bloomed, the Indians love to drink the sweet nectar. I even like to throw a few Agave blossoms into a salad! Besides food and drink, the fibers of the Agave plant have been used to make rope, baskets and mats. But, wait a minute. I glossed over the drink section before I mentioned the famous Agave “drinks of choice,” like Tequila, Mescal and Pulque.
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