Edition 19

February 4-10, 2014

www.theplayatimes.com

PLAYA DEL CARMEN PIONEERS FISHING TOURNAMENT 2014

COMMUNITY

Weekly, Year 01, Number 19, 10,000 Copies,16 Pages

YOLIGUANI PROJECT

PAGE 5

DESTINATION COZUMEL

BY GEMA GARCÍA

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CUEVA QUEBRADA

PAGE 13

DINING OUT

he 10th Pioneers fishing tournament took place on Saturday amid some intermittent morning rain. The first and second places went to Eduardo López and Jorge Villarreal, with José Dzib taking third. Jorge Villarreal landed a 31-pound king fish winning the second place.

Although Eduardo López caught a smaller 12-pound wahoo, it scored higher and took the eventual first place with a technically more complex capture.

The third prize was a 27-pound king fish caught by José Dzib.

The first prize was a new Suzuki scooter together with the trophy, and fishing tools for the second and third places.

The tournament began at 7 am with a starting gun fired by the secretary of the government of Solidaridad, Juan Carlos Pereyra. 38 competitors from Campeche, Queretaro, Merida, Tamaulipas and Quintana Roo set out on 12 boats, spending 6 hours out at sea. Judging began at 1.30 pm when the boats returned to an eager reception at Zenzi Beach Club on 10th Street.

The jury started weighing the catch which was considered less than in past years because of the recent bad weather.

The fishermen explained that the recent stormy season has caused the fishes to remain in deeper waters.

The tournament organizers

The final weigh-in at the Playa Pioneer's fishing tournament at Zenzi Beach Bar also rewarded the three fishermen who released the most fishes in the ‘catch and release’ category, promoting the preservation of local fish species.

They were Germán Marín, Os-

valdo Cantero and Luis Manuel Ortiz who won fishing rods, clothes and knives.

Zenzi Beach Club was packed which people who turned up to taste the catch,

which served free of charge as traditional fish tacos with salsa and salad. The Pioneers Jigging Tournament organizers expect to hold another event in November 2014.

VALENTINE'S IDEAS PAGE 9

02

February 4-10, 2014

Jon Voight shoots scenes for the drama series ‘Ray Donovan’ in Tulum T

DIRECTORY Omar Tornel

he American series ‘Ray Donovan’ started shooting its second season in Tulum last week. The hit Showtime network production stars Golden Globe nominee, Live Schreiber, and Oscar and Palme D´Or winner Jon Voight, as well as Elliot Gould and Rosanna Arquette who appeared in the first season.

Scenes from the crime drama series were filmed at locations Zamas and the Zebra Hotel, both located along the Tulum coast road, adding to the numerous national and international TV and film productions shot here in the Riviera Maya. Although the production crew kept a low profile, Jonathan Vincent Voight, better known

Managing Editor omar@theplayatimes.com

María Morote Copy Writer maria@theplayatimes.com

Gema García Chief Reporter gema@theplayatimes.com

Efrén Velázquez Graphic Design efren@theplayatimes.com

Elizabeth Urraza Operations & Marketing elizabeth@theplayatimes.com

Mario A. Belmont Advertising Sales 984-745 0698 mario@theplayatimes.com

as Jon Voight and actress Angelina Jolie´s father, was known to be staying in Tulum during the filming.

The series is set in Los Angeles, California, where Bostonian Ray Donovan (Liev Schreiber) plays the ‘fixer’ for the powerful law company Goldman & Drexler, which represents the rich and elite. Pressure builds for Donovan when his father, Mickey Donovan (Jon Voight), is unexpectedly released from jail, and the FBI begins to investigate the law firm.

The ‘Ray Donovan’ character was created by Ann Biderman in 2013, and was commissioned for a second season after the successful first series of 12 episodes. The new season will be aired later in the year. In June 2013 the

Oscar winning actor Jon Voight with local expat extra Webb Elkins series won an award, the Critics Television Award for Most Exciting New Series and in December earned two Golden Globe nominations for acting, Schreiber was nominated for Best Actor in a Television Series

(Drama), and Voight won a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actor in the same category. The show is currently broadcast in the United States and some European countries, but not in Mexico.

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Production crew of the hit series 'Ray Donovan' on the beach at Tulum last week

TUESDAY 85°/68° F Partly Cloudy 20% chance of rain

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

84°/67° F Isolated T-Storms 30% chance of rain

83°/67° F Isolated T-Storms 30% chance of rain

FRIDAY 84°/67° F Partly Cloudy 20% chance of rain

Photos: Spcproducciones

ditorial

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

MONDAY

84°/66° F Partly Cloudy 20% chance of rain

83°/63° F Isolated T-Storms 30% chance of rain

78°/61° F Partly Cloudy 20% chance of rain

LOCAL NEWS

February 4-10, 2014

03

2014 Regatta Cup Riviera Maya sailing competition Photo: Agency

BY GEMA GARCÍA

T

he Regatta Cup Riviera Maya 2014 was held last weekend at Puerto Aventuras with 400 crewmembers and 180 boats taking part. The categories were Bic Techno, RS:X, Optimist, Laser, laser Radial, Laser 4.7 and C420 and Hobie 16. Local sailors fared well with Solidaridad´s team captained

by Raúl Ramo taking second place with Magdalena Dolores Brito´s boat and fifth place went to Keyla Hernández and Alex Torres, both belonging to the Optimist category, they also won the first place of under 11 year old category as well.

Concerns over the weather threatened to halt the competition, but it was decided that the beginners and the under 11’s category would delay until conditions were more favorable. The captain of the champion national sailing team od Acapulco, Ricardo Robledo, was present at the tournament on Sunday and Karla Gutiérrez, one of the members of the organizer committee, said that the number of competitors this year was higher than ever.

Optimist sailing dinghies at the Puerto Aventuras regatta last weekend The Regatta Cup Riviera Maya 2014 is one of the annual 8 sailing events that the Nation-

al Sailing Federation holds in Veracruz, Puerto Vallarta, Los Cabos and Acapulco. It will be

the preliminary round in the selection process for the teams that will go through to the

World Sailing Championship to be held in Santander (Spain) on September 2014.

Photos: Agencies

Playa del Carmen-Merida highway

BY GEMA GARCÍA The Playa del Carmen highway construction started last year in order to cut the travel time between Playa del Carmen and Merida from 4.5 hours to 2.5 hours. The project has a budget of $40.7 million dollars and will be built by Associated Building Engineers (ICA).

The highway will be 150 miles long and will have two tolls at the connections with the Merida-Cancun highway and with federal highway route 180.

Work continues on the long awaited Playa to Merida highway

According to the project plans, the intersection in Playa del Carmen will be at Luis Donaldo Colosio Avenue where the highway will continue to colonia Ejido until it reaches the Cancun-Merida highway at Xcan village.

The road will have two 12foot wide lanes, and a maximum 70 mph speed limit. The project is already in the process of acquiring the land with the Ejido committee, as five miles of the proposed highway will pass over ejido or communal land. As yet there is no completion date.

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LOCAL NEWS

February 4-10, 2014

Increasing flu cases in Mexico Photos: Agencies

BY GEMA GARCÍA

A

lthough there are no confirmed cases of influenza A (H1N1) in Quintana Roo, the vaccination campaign that started in October 2013 has been intensified over the last weeks as a preventative measure during the colder season. The state gained extensive experience in flu control after the pandemic occurring between 2009 and 2010, which claimed 1,032 lives in Mexico.

Tomás Contreras Castillo, the Director of Health Services for Quintana Roo, said that the most affected age ranges by the influenza have been those from 40 to 44 followed by 35 to 39 as well as those over 65 years of age, which are the most vulnerable age and the least likely to be vaccinated due to misconceptions over the vaccination.

In Playa del Carmen, there are 63 possible cases that are currently being monitored at various health institutions. In the entire state of Quintana Roo, there is has only been one case confirmed in Cancun. Contreras Castillo informed that Quintana Roo has a reserve of 4,500 vaccines available. Influenza A

Nationals and foreign visitors can get A (H1N1) flu vaccine for free (H1N1) is a disease caused by a new type of virus, which affects the airways, previously known as ‘swine flu’ or ‘North American

flu’ the World Health Organization (WHO) gave it the official name of influenza A (H1N1). It is transmitted by direct contact

with an infected person. The virus is not however transmitted by eating pork meat, or products derived from it.

The Director of Health Services added that, according to the Epidemiologic Surveillance System for Influenza (Sisveflu) records, 1,517 cases of A (H1N1) and 135 deaths have been confirmed throughout Mexico to date this year. Currently, Sisveflu works under strict international protocols with the collaboration of 583 Influenza Monitoring Health Units (USMI) nationally and is coordinated by the Health Secretary of the Republic. The Director of Health Services for Quintana Roo also stressed the importance that all residents, as well as national and foreign tourists belonging to the groups at risk cooperate by getting vaccinated, which is totally free. The risk groups are mainly young children and the elderly, but also those with compromised immunity, diabetes, asthma or any chronic disease.

The Director recommends eating a healthy well balanced diet, food rich in vitamin A and C, keeping hydrated, taking vitamin supplements if required as well as avoiding sneezing or coughing without covering your mouth and nose and washing your hands frequently.

Books, books and art! Tuukul book and art craft fare in Playa del Carmen Last week a new fare opened in Leona Vicario Park, on 15th Avenue and Juarez Avenue, which will stay until February 11th selling books and art. The group is called Biblionia, from the Greek word for books.

The Playa Times spoke to Miguel Ángel Ochoa Rodríguez, the coordinator of the of booksellers group that began 35 years ago in Mexico City. Their first members were all booksellers in the biggest street market in Latin America: La Lagunilla, where over 250 book exhibitors gather every Sunday to share their passion for literature and reading. The group started to travel around the country visiting town squares and fares, mainly in the central area of Mexico like Guanajuato, San Miguel de Allende, Puebla, and Veracruz. This is the first time they have decided to give Playa del Carmen a shot. They have been invited to be part of the Tuukul Book and Art Craft Fare, which is organized by Art Academies, La Ceiba Park, and various other art committed associations.

They have books of all kinds and in many languages. You will find bestsellers and classic fiction together with books covering subjects such as art, cookery, children’s literature, encyclopedias,

Photos: Elizabeth Urraza

BY ELIZABETH URRAZA

as well as editions in English, French, Italian, German, and Danish. They have new and second hand books for all budgets.

Prices start from 10 pesos and all of the traders are aware of all the book titles they have, even though they may not be on display. The booksellers are accompanied by a group of artisans from different regions of Mexico, offering jewelry and decorative items. The fare opens at 10am and is open all day until 10pm, and every afternoon they have art workshops, book presentations, readings, puppet

shows, and more. They also host special activities for children such as painting and puppet making.

Every member of the group is concerned by the current lack of reading culture amongst Mexicans. They live for books and art, and use this tour around Mexico to promote the joys of reading and to remind the public that books are accessible to everyone. Mr. Ochoa urges the bookworm community of Playa del Carmen to attend the fare: “Please come and say hi, check out our books and meet the friendly Biblionia group”.

The Leona Vicario Park book fare, here until February 15th

COMMUNITY

February 4-10, 2014

05

A new life for neglected girls

BY GEMA GARCÍA

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ainbow House Home for Girls (Casa Arcoiris Hogar para Niñas, A.C.) is a civil association that is working to offer residential care for homeless girls aged between 5 and 18 in the Playa del Carmen area.

The home offers a secure and stable environment for girls who may have suffered abuse or neglect whilst their legal or family situation is uncertain.

Verónica Valencia, one of the founders of the association, said that the Rainbow House was legally established a year ago after she was moved by the increasing number of girls who needed support due to their home environment, and who had nowhere to turn to. She added that the National System for Integral Family Development (DIF) building, which normally offers emergency accommodation, is currently insufficient to house all the girls requiring assistance, so they deci-

ded to open their own.

Valencia said that they are currently waiting to start construction of the facilities on land given by a private donor, “We are about to finish the legal process. Also, our association will be able to issue tax deductible receipts for companies who wish to make donations”.

Rainbow House expects to be able to open the center, which will able to receive up to 50 girls, towards the middle

of 2014. Meanwhile members of the association have started collecting donations of clothes, shoes, furniture, toys, electrical appliances or any useful second hand item in good condition, which can be used in the new facilities. Verónica told us that they also raise extra funds by operating a regular secondhand bazaar throughout the districts of Playa where they sell any objects that have been donated but cannot use. Besides donating,

members of the public from Playa del Carmen may assist the association by joining their volunteer team who run the bazaar.

“Playa del Carmen has one of the highest levels of teenage pregnancy of Mexico, which is alarming and we have to change these statistics by carrying out more prevention initiatives. Violence, exploitation and abuse happen within the home environment and in many cases lack of education leads to families abandoning their children.

What we want to do is to guide the girls so they can decide consciously which way to take and achieve a better quality of life”, said Verónica Valencia.

The Rainbow House administrative headquarters are open from 8am to 12pm from Monday to Friday on 115th Avenue and Avenue Constituyentes. For more information contact Verónica Valencia on Casa Arcoiris, Hogar para Niñas AC Facebook page or fell free to visit the office.

Yoliguani, supporting young single mothers

BY GEMA GARCÍA

We have received girls from all over, from the United States, Canada, Argentina, Chile, Uruguay and all the states of Mexico who come here under different economic, social, family and legal situations, but all of them share one thing, they are alone and pregnant” Lety Montaño, director of the Yoliguani Home

and they become pregnant and in 95% of the cases the partners ask them terminate the pregnancy”, said Lety Montaño.

She added that they are usually dealing with very emotional experiences that affect all kinds of women no matter their age, economic or social situation. The Yoliguani home has received all ages of women from teenage

girls to 40 years. The center depends solely on support from private and public institutions as well as from individual donors, and is very grateful for all the financial support they receive, “we give the girls everything they need, from accommodation and food for them and their babies, diapers, clothes, or toiletry items, so we always need all this kind of stuff. We need to fix the house as well, which is really dilapidated.

We need paint and to fix the roof which leaks”, said Lety.

The charity is also working on constructing their own house, since the current building is on loan, and does not have all the required installations. For that project they estimate they need around $160,000 USD. Those interested in the work of Yoliguani Home or making a donation can contact Lety Montaño anytime on (984) 803 9838.

Photos: Gema García

“We have received girls from all over, from the United States, Canada, Argentina, Chile, Uruguay and all the states of Mexico who come here under different economic, social, family and legal situations, but all of them share one thing, they are alone and pregnant”, said Lety Montaño, director of the Yoliguani Home which means ‘the gift of life’ in the pre-Hispanic Nahuatl language. She has been working for six years helping pregnant women in Playa del Carmen who sometimes do not even have a place to spend the night.

Over the last 6 years, Yoliguani has received on average over 200 residential placements, and assisted 30 women who live outside the care home a year as well as many more just needing advice and support from their staff. Currently, the home has 2 residential and 7 women living externally who also assist with the daily running of the center.

“Not all of them arrive here under the same circumstances but the main reason that brings them here is that their partners do not want them after they become pregnant, they do not want to deal with a child or are unable to accept the responsibility. Most of these women come here to work from other states of Mexico and then send money to their families. They arrive here alone

The rooms at the Yoliguani Home for single mothers

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HOMELIFE

February 4-10, 2014

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Mexico by design Tree of life pottery

BY E. FLORES

T

ree of Life, or Arbol de la Vida, sculptures are a form of hand coiled clay pieces originating from the region of Izucar de Matamoros in Puebla, whose craftsmen created ceremonial incense burners. It is believed the pieces were inspired by the bronze and silver candelabra bought by friars to adorn the city’s churches.

Over the years the sculptures became themed tableaus from traditional biblical themes, most notably the story of Adam and Eve and their expulsion from the Garden of Eden by the Archangel Gabriel. Over the years pieces have become more intricate and colorful, including leaves, flowers, animals and birds and the arms of the candelabra have transformed into the branches of a tree.

As well as being ceremonial candelabra they were also given

to newlyweds to ensure the fertility of not only their farmland, but also their union.

Pieces from Izucar could be anywhere from 6 inches to 6 feet in height, and it was a potter named Aurelio Flores that was one of the first craftsmen to use more intricate designs during the

1920’s, and his son carried on the development after him.

The town of Acatlan, in Hidalgo also had a notable potter, Heron Martínez Mendoza (1918-1990), who took the Izucar candelabra form but added a signature animal or mermaid at the base of each piece and included

circus figures, the Virgin of Guadalupe and themes of nature. However the town of Metepec, in Mexico State, rose as the most renowned

modern day producer and it is from here that most of the pieces are currently made. The Soteno family from Metepec have gained fame as producing three generations of potters and new themes were born, inspired by the Day of the Dead, historic events, Mexican culture and crafts, and scenes from the Conquest, the Creation, and regional costume; however they always retained the form of a candelabra.

The market waned a little and lost popularity, it was also threatened by low quality imitations, quite often imported from Asia.

However in 2009 the federal government designated a Tree of Life trademark for artisans in Metepec where approximately 300 families continue to produce these unique and complex pieces

ART & CULTURE

February 4-10, 2014

07

BY GEMA GARCÍA

T

he Culture Office of Solidaridad and the director, Luis Ernesto López, are supporting the project ‘Caminarte’, whose meaning is a combination of the words ‘caminar’ (to walk) and view paintings, handicrafts, photographs and sculpture while walking along Fifth Avenue.

Juan Carlos Martínez, social communication manager for the Culture Center of Solidaridad, said that ‘Caminarte’ was an initiative created by a group of painters, sculptors, photographers and other artists who wanted to show quality art pieces at public spaces moved by the idea of making art accessible to all and not just to an exclusive sector of the society.

“The Caminarte project’s aim is to become a unique event in Playa del Carmen and an attractive aspect for tourists that plan to come here”, said Juan Carlos Martínez. The event has proved a great success and has been supported by the local government since it was created six years ago.

The artists´ works are exhibited every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday from 4pm to 10.30pm on Fifth Avenue between 24th Street, and 26th Street. The only

Photo: Caminarte

“Caminarte” a space for public art The Caminarte project’s aim is to become a unique event in Playa del Carmen and an attractive aspect for tourists that plan to come here” Juan Carlos Martínez, social communication manager for the Culture Center of Solidaridad

requirement the Culture Office has for them is to live in the city for at least one year.

Juan Carlos Martínez also informed about other artistic spaces that the Culture Office is supporting such as “Artisans from Solidaridad” which provides craftsmen of public spaces to show and sell their products.

“We try to avoid mass-produced handicrafts like those that can be found on Fifth Avenue because we want people to know unique local creations”. This project is carried out every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 4pm to 10.30 on 16th St. and Fifth Avenue.

“The Art Alley” is another project which is currently being reactivated in order to give artisans, performers and musicians a place to show their creations. It is open every day from 4pm to 10.30pm on 6 bis St. between 10th Ave. and 15th Ave.

Belgian artist Peter Terrin, who now resides in Puerto Aventuras, exhibiting his works at Caminarte

OperacionKangrejo, Proudly Puerto Morelian “If you have already visited Puerto Morelos then you will know why we live here”, affirmed OperacionKangrejo (Operation Crab), the Caribbean reggae band that will close the Puerto Morelos Music Festival due to take place between February 27th and March 1st. The Playa Times had the pleasure of talking with the “proudly Puerto Morelian” group during the first of four interviews with bands taking part in this year’s festival’s line-up.

According to OperacionKangrejo’s words the name of the band is an “analogy with the sociopolitical set-back of today’s society, and also the image of the ritual dance that crabs perform. The name reflects our need to release the human spirit of its huge ego, and of the difficulty and fear of interacting with other people”. The band’s members are RazCarmelo (voice and guitar) from Mexico City; Anuska (saxophone) the Basque Country, Spain; ChanGora (drums) Merida, Yucatan; Manu Flash (bass) Acapulco and Kristyan Alonso (guitar) from Mexico City, they also perform with numerous collaborators like Raymond Hall or Zappa and members of other local music groups.

“The band has moved through various phases, throughout which the members have changed. The first band was formed in Zipolite, in Oaxaca state, near the Pacific Ocean. Then, some of us lived for some years in Barcelona, Spain and the third and most recent stage began here in this beautiful Caribbean land where some new musicians joined the band”, said OperacionKangrejo.

The band is already a veteran of the Yucatan peninsula’s music scene as some band members have been living in Puerto Morelos for 15 years.

They have appeared throughout neighboring

Photos: Operacionkangrejo

BY MARÍA MOROTE

OperacionKangrejo at the 2013 Puerto Morelos Music Festival states and have also played in Holbox, Cancun and Playa del Carmen. “Now, with our new album, “Watch out for the crabs”, we are preparing a tour of different cities in Mexico and any locations where we are invited. On March 23rd we will perform at the Central Park of Coyoacan in Mexico City”.

The band are excited to be back due to “the great reception from the audience at last year’s event and the invitation from the Culture Center”, which is the organizer of the festival. OperacionKangrejo will play on the main stage at the Puerto Morelos Central Park at 8.30pm. For more information about the event and their upcoming tour dates check out www.puertomorelosfestmusic. com, http://operacionkangrejo.wordpress.com or visit their Facebook page OperacionKangrejo. If you are undecided about going to the Puerto Morelos Music Festival, watch the new video clip of OperacionKangrejo’s “Babylon Song” on their website, and experience the beaches, tranquility, dreadlocks and rhythm that is pure Puerto Morelos.

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ENTERTAINMENT

February 4-10, 2014

4

WEDNESDAY

AK LU’UM ECO MARKET every Wednesday from 12pm to 3pm at Ak Lu’um International School, La Selva St. s/n, Colonia Ejido. Organic products, baked goods, gluten-free products and salsas. akluum@gmail.com BICINETA BIKE RIDES meeting every Wednesday at 8pm at the City Hall, Plaza 28 de Julio, on 8th St. and 15th Ave. Get to know the bike paths of Playa del Carmen and meet likeminded local bikers.

ARABIAN DANCE LESSONS. Every Wednesday and Friday from 6pm to 7.30pm at Le Lotus Rouge Cultural Centre, on 2nd St. and 35th Ave. $30 MXP contribution.

5

THURSDAY

WAGGLE WALKS every Thursday at 9am at the new P.A.R. Shelter. Have fun helping dogs become leash trained, balanced and exercised. Contact info@playaanimalrescue.org CINE CLUB every Thursday at 7.30pm at Caracol Marino Cultural Center on 80th Street and Fifth Avenue in Colonia Colosio. Watch interesting social cinema.

CAPOEIRA LESSONS every Thursday from 6.30 to 8pm and at 2.30pm on Saturday at La Ceiba Park on 1st St. South and 60th Ave. in Colonia Ejidal. Enjoy three free classes by Omar Cardona.

6

FRIDAY

PRORECYCLETON. From 10am to 4pm at La Ceiba Park on 1st St. South and 60th Ave. in Colonia Ejidal. Please bring your recyclables separated and clean to La Ceiba recycle center, which is receiving PET, hard plastics, glass, paper and cardboard, aluminum, oil and domestic appliances.

POETRY FRIDAYS every Friday at 8pm at El Eden Art Garden on Constituyentes Ave. and 95 Street in Colonia Ejido.

Come to listen and read your favorite or your own poems. Free entrance.

COCOS BEACH FRIDAY ORGANIC MARKET every Friday from 9am to 11am at Condos Alizes, Avenida CTM and Flamingo Street. Homemade bread, cakes and other baked goods, gluten-free products, fresh herbs, organic eggs, handmade products, cosmetics, clothing and much more.

7

SATURDAY

KAMILA CHOMICZ PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION OPENING ‘Seasons of the year’ At 7.30pm at El

Eden Art Garden on Constituyentes Ave. and 95 Street in Colonia Ejido.

Free entrance.

CONSCIOUS RELAXATION WORKSHOP. Every Saturday at 10am at La Ceiba Park on 1st St. South and 60th Ave. in Colonia Ejidal. Voluntary contribution.

100 BEST MEXICAN FILMS showing every Saturday at 7pm at El Eden Art Garden on Constituyentes Ave. and 95 St. in Colonia Ejido. Free entrance.

WRITING AND LITERATURE WORKSHOP every Saturday from 4pm to 6pm at Le Lotus Rouge Cultural Centre, on 2nd St. and 35th Ave. From 5 to 95 years old. 2 hours. $150 MXN.

8

SUNDAY

FILM SHOWING “LITTLE RED FLOWERS”. At 7.30pm at La Ceiba Park on 1st St. South and 60th Ave. in Colonia Ejidal. Chinese film directed

by Zhang Yuan.

ARTISTIC MORNINGS every Sunday from 11.30 at Le Lotus Rouge, on 2nd St. and 35th Ave. Enjoy an artistic performance.

“MAYAN VOYAGE” PAINTING EXHIBITION from 4pm to 10pm at El Eden Art Garden on Constituyentes Ave. and 95 St. in Colonia Ejido.

Paintings by Marcelo Jiménez Santos. Free entrance.

9

MONDAY

CREATIVE WORKSHOPS every Monday and Wednesday from 9am to 11am at Caracol Marino Cultural Centre. An artistic workshop by Hugo Uribe. 80th Street, between 10th and 5th. For more information contact centrocaracol@gmail.com.

FLAMENCO DANCE LESSONS every Monday and Wednesday from 3pm to 4.30pm at Caracol Marino Cultural Centre. Given by flamenco dancer Brenda. 80th Street, between 10th and 5th. For more information contact centrocaracol@gmail.com.

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TUESDAY

FLUTE MUSIC WORKSHOP every Friday from 4pm to 6pm and from 6pm to 8pm at Le Lotus Rouge, on 2nd St. and 35th Ave. $250 MXN to cover lessons.

FREE TANGO LESSONS every Tuesday at 8pm at Be Playa Hotel´s roof on 26th St. and 10 Ave. Free tango lessons by Diego and Lucila.

PAINTING LESSONS every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 10am to 12 am and from 4pm to 6 pm. At Le Lotus Rouge, on 2nd St. and 35th Ave. $100 MXN to cover materials.

DINING OUT

February 4-10, 2014

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10

HEALTH & BEAUTY

February 4-10, 2014

Why Juice?

P

eople are turning to juice as a fountain of youth elixir.

Juice extractor sales in the United States increased by 46% in the twelve months ending March 2013 according to a marketing report by the NPD Group, a market information and advisory company that track buying trends. Citrus juicer sales were reported to have increased 55% in the same survey.

In the report posted May 22, 2013 on the company’s web site, Debra Mednick, executive director and home industry analyst for the company stated, “Blender, juice extractor, and citrus juicer manufacturers are profiting from consumers desire to get healthy”.

Vegetable juice, in particular green juices, (those made from spinach, parsley, chard, celery, and kale etc.) neutralize the body’s pH balance, bringing it more towards an alkaline state, which is the body’s optimal level for health.

An acidic body state and toxicity go hand-in-hand. Brenda Gill, a naturopathic doctor practicing in Rossland, BC, writes: “Typically, most people have too low of a pH (are too acidic). At the beginning of most diseases, there is an over-acidified system”.

She advises adopting a diet high in fresh fruits and vegetables, practicing breathing deeply into the lower rib cage to flood the body with oxygen, and becoming physically active, to increase the amount of sleep which reduces mental and emotional stress.

Dr. Andrew Weil, M.D., author of Eating Well for Optimum Health, shared on his web site that the major advantage of juicing is that it can help increase the

intake of fruits and vegetables that you may not eat otherwise. In an article posted April 30, 2013, Dr. Weil stated, “Preparing your own juice is good for you in that it will give you a drink that is tastier and more nutritious than prepared, bottled juices. Commercial juice is treated with heat to kill germs, which makes it safe for storage but alters taste and lowers nutritional value.”

Dr. Weil warns that fresh juices tend to break down quickly however and pathogens can grow in them if the juice is exposed to air.

For that reason, it is important to drink juice as soon as possible after preparation.

Here are some tasty starter juices that are available at local Playa del Carmen juice stands and health food restaurants.

Chiropractic and health

BY DR. RICHARD MCCARTHY Having been a chiropractor for many years in the U.S., Canada and here in Playa del Carmen, there are several myths that stand out when you ask a patient why they waited so long to seek our treatment. Here are a few:

about replacing meals with fruit and vegetables juices made from produce high on the glycemic index, such as beets, is that they contain concentrated sugars and enter your system rapidly, which can promote insulin resistance.

Eating wholefoods reduces this effect as the wholefoods contain fiber that slows down absorption.

Consult your doctor prior to engaging in any dietary changes.

This article is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advises.

Pineapple/Parsley/Ginger/ Apple Juice This is one of my favorites.

Pineapple is high in the enzyme bromelain, which has potent anti-inflammatory properties; parsley is a mild diuretic; ginger adds a zing and fires up the digestive juices; and apples smooth out the flavors.

Carrot/Beet/Lemon/ Garlic Juice This is my go-to juice if I need to boost my immune system.

Carrots are rich in beta-carotene and B vitamins; beets cleanse the blood and strengthen the gallbladder and liver; garlic is a natural antibiotic; and a splash

of lemon juice balances the alkali-acids level in the body.

One thing to keep in mind

Arielle Thomas Newman is a writer, certified yoga teacher, and former professional dancer. You can find out about her ongoing yoga classes and Yoga Teacher Training Courses at: www.MoreThanYoga.com

Treatments are painful: People fear our treatments because they believe they will hurt. The truth is that even when we work on very sensitive areas, it can be done with little or no pain. This is because the years of training and art of chiropractic gives us the tools to work in a painless manner.

Treatments are dangerous: Many of the recorded injuries from spinal manipulation were not done by chiropractors.

Unqualified therapists account for most injuries subsequent to manipulation. These people do not have the proper training to provide safe manipulative care.

Chiropractors adjust millions of people each week all over the world. Statistically chiropractors are safer than all other health related professions.

Treatments are ineffective: The fact is that a regular chiropractor will obtain a 90% improvement on the cases he treats. This has been my experience. The major reason why people don't obtain results is that they only have one or two treatments, which is often insufficient to treat a problem. Don’t expect instant miracles.

There are many other myths that I could mention, but the bottom line is that for back problems and many joint problems, chiropractic should be your first choice.

Don't let myths influence you.

Make your own deduction after experiencing real Chiropractic Care!!

CHIROPRACTOR

Photos: Agency

BY ARIELLE THOMAS NEWMAN

for a safe, effective chiropractor DR. RICHARD McCARTHY at THE NEW GYM, Playa del Carmen,

Tel: 984 873 2098

HEALTH & BEAUTY

February 4-10, 2014

11

How to choose the best dental clinic

BY DR. ESTEBAN BARRAGÁN

M

ore and more people are making the decision to travel abroad for their dental treatment. Choosing the right dental clinic can be a minefield with disastrous consequences if you make the wrong choice. Here are a few pointers to help you make the decision that is right for you.

1. Start your search on Google or some other search engine.

Make a list of the clinics that are featured and that appeal to you.

Remember the sponsored clinics have paid to be on the first position; Google has not necessarily selected them as suiting your search criteria.

2. Find out how long the clinic has been offering treatment to overseas patients. If they have been around a long time then they probably have a good track record.

Photos: Agency

3. Make sure that the dental clinic selected is a one-stop shop that provides a comprehensive range of treatment procedures including root canal treatments, den-

tal implants, bone augmentation, crowns, bridgework, CT scan analysis.

4. Look for details of the qualifications of the dentists. Are there different experts in each field of dentistry or is the same person an expert in all aspect of dentistry? The latter is obviously not a good sign.

5. Look for references provided by the clinic and ask to be put in touch with the ones you like, that way you will find out if they are real or not. Talk to people who have had treatment some years ago, not last week.

6. Check that the clinic is well equipped with modern facilities and technology.

A large clinic with professional equipment, spacious waiting areas and other services suggest that the clinic made long-term investment not only with the dental service but in the surrounding environment.

7. Price alone should never be the deciding factor in choosing a

dentist. Poor quality workmanship will be more expensive in the long run.

8. Check the guarantee provided by the clinic and compare.

there are the additional costs of flights and accommodation involved in travelling abroad for dental treatment, which you would not incur if you had the treatment carried out locally.

9. Do the math. Remember

10. It is better to visit the clin-

ic for a short consultation to see it for yourself. This is highly recommended even if the clinic offers a local consultation.

To schedule an appointment or consultation please contact us at info@bokanova.mx

Strike a Pose, most wanted

BY RICARDO RUIZ Crane

pose

(Bakasana)

As I’ve mentioned before, knowing the architecture of a posture can be the difference between getting there and receiving all the benefits from it, or getting lost along the way.

For this issue we will review how to achieve one of the most wanted postures for most practitioners. Crane pose is a well-known asana for combining strength, balance and spine flexibility.

This is an intermediate posture, for which you must prepare physically in your practice with sun salutations and vinyasas that activate and warm up your shoulders, neck and core, as well as prepare your hip flexibility.

Now let’s try one of the many possibilities to structure and enter this great asana. Standing some 20cm away from the front of your mat, feet together, start with a chair position, moving your hands to the front sides

of your mat with wide-open fingers and start exploring your weight on your hands.

Now here is the trick, with your core muscles engaged, rise both your ankles standing on your tiptoes and try to reach with your bent knees as close to your armpits as you can, the closer you get the easier it will be to float to ‘bakasana’.

Now keep your head facing forward for balance, and fly your feet out of the ground, be airborne! After a few breaths you may return to the ground slowly, but if you are a motion fanatic like me, you may push the floor and rise your hips as you breath in and straighten your legs directly to ‘chaturanga’ and follow from there to a vinyasa sequence and finish on a deep downward dog. That feels just amazing.

And that’s a simple way to a most wanted pose I hope you enjoy on your next practice.

namaste.

12

February 4-10, 2014

CURRENCY AND METALS

Pick yourof free copy

Available at the

ADO Bus Stations on 5th Avenue and 20th and 12th

DOLLAR Buy 13.05

Sale 13.65

DOLLAR CANADA Buy 11.83

Sale 12.16

POUND Buy 21.67

Sale 22.28

EURO Buy 17.78

Sale 18.28

YEN Buy 0.1290

Sale 0.1338

REAL Buy 5.46

Sale 5.61

PESO ARGENTINA Buy 1.64

Sale 1.68

SWISS FRANC Buy 14.54

Sale 14.94

* February 3 * Source Banco de México * Flags courtesy www.redpixart.com

DESTINATION COZUMEL

February 4-10, 2014

13

The wonders of the Cozumel ‘Broken Cave’, Cueva Quebrada

S

ince June 2013, the civil association Speleological Circle of Mayab has being organizing monthly conferences, and we can proudly say that some of the most relevant experts in geological karsts, cave mapping and archaeological research have come to Playa del Carmen to present the lectures the circle schedules. Our aim is to keep rolling and try to do it even better, so with this in mind we thought that the first conference in 2014 was appropriate to be dedicated to a place more well-known for his reefs rather than for its caves: Cozumel. The lecture was presented by one of the pioneers of cave diving, Steve Ormeroid.

The island of Cozumel is one of the world's most popular vacation destinations, mostly because of the great reefs which form part of the Caribbean barrier reef. It boasts some of the most extraordinary and important archeological sites of the New World including relics of the Mayans, who dominated the Yucatan peninsula in the 16th century. It is also home of Cueva Quebrada (Broken Cave), a network of underwater caves and chambers beneath the island. In 1991, cave explorers Joe Bozanic and Steve Ormeroid came upon a Mayan burial mound while diving in a chamber nearly a mile away from the nearest entrance. This raised the question of how the Mayans were able to place these artifacts in such an unlikely location.

Last Friday 31st, Steve Ormeroid together with his wife Judy, came to Playa Del Carmen to give the conference lecture “Cueva Quebrada Project, Cozumel Island” at the Municipal Auditorium at the City Hall. He presented some of the experiences and discoveries that he and fellow cave divers have made over their 20 years of exploration in the Cueva Quebrada.

President of the National Speleological Society-Cave Diving Section (NSS-CDS) for many years, renowned speleologist and pioneer of cave diving, Omeroid has spent more than two decades exploring the maze of rooms and tunnels of the longest cave in Cozumel. Cueva Quebrada, which is part of the

National Park of Chankanaab, currently has 9000 meters of mapped exploration. It has more than 10 cenotes within the system and due to the high value of the scientific research; its interior exploration is reserved only to purposes related to investigation. It is also one of the few places in the world that remipedias, a class of blind crustacean found in coastal aquifers that contain saline groundwater, are found. The system also contains Mayan pottery relics, human and animal bones, and incredible and unique underwater fauna that, with its origins in the sea, has been evolving to adapt to the permanent darkness of the caves.

It was a fascinating presentation by Steve Ormeroid that was highly appreciated by a full house within the auditorium, and accompanied by incredible photographs that illustrated Ormeroid’s lecture.

Those who said that all diving photos were mostly black and blue in color, had to bite their tongue and watch the slides.

The Speleological Circle of Mayab continues to hold monthly conferences, speleological and rappel courses, and exploration and mapping of wet and dry caves. Those interested in joining us or just collaborate, please contact our Facebook page or send an e-mail to mariozabaleta@hotmail.com.

Photos: Mario Zabaleta

BY MARIO ZABALETA

A cave star, an endemic species of Cozumel

Steve Ormeroid presenting the lecture 'Cueva Quebrada Project, Cozumel Island' tat the Town Hall

14

TAKE A BREAK

February 4-10, 2014

HOROSCOPES AQUARIUS JANUARY 20THFEBRUARY 18TH A sparkly transit could coincide with an invitation or outing that you'll really enjoy. Connecting with folks on your wavelength could give you a much-needed boost.

PISCES FEBRUARY 19THMARCH 20TH An issue with a friend could cause some angst, so try to resolve this before it comes to a head. If you feel coerced into following others' plans, it might be time to stand up for what you want.

ARIES MARCH 21STAPRIL 19TH Your social life continues to be a source of fun, as a meeting may have special sparkle. However, you might be noticing tensions in the balance between home and career.

TAURUS APRIL 20THMAY 20TH You may find that areas of your life that have been prone to delays or backtracking, such as finances or relationships, slowly begin to sort themselves out. Someone could oppose a plan of yours.

GEMINI MAY 21THJUNE 21TH Finances could be an issue, especially if you're geared up to make a major purchase. Don't rush into anything, especially if it's a big commitment. It might help to do a little more research.

CANCER JUNE 22ND JULY 22ND A relationship issue could come to a head. However, there's a chance you may be able to come to a compromise that works for both of you. A careful approach could be helpful for both parties.

LEO JULY 23RD  AUGUST 22ND A fun link may inspire you to expand your horizons. If a friend wants to join you, you might enjoy going on an adventure together. Don't feel guilty about taking some time out.

HUEVOS MOTULENOS INGREDIENTS 2 SERVINGS 4 corn tortillas 1 cup Yucatan Black Beans, heated 2 tablespoon butter 4 eggs 1 cup tomato salsa 1/2 cup crisp diced baked ham 1/4 cup green peas 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese fresh cilantro, minced olive oil fried plantain slices (optional) lime wedges and cilantro sprigs (optional) PREPARATION Brush both sides of tortillas with olive oil. Place on baking pan. Bake at 400°F 6 minutes or until crisp.

Place beans in bowl. Mash with back of fork until combined, but not completely smooth. Set aside.

Meanwhile, prepare sunny side up eggs. Heat 1 tablespoon butter in large nonstick skillet over mediumlow heat until melted. Gently slide 2 eggs into skillet.

Cook 1 to 2 minutes or until whites are set and opaque and yolks begin to firm. Gently remove from skillet;

repeat with remaining butter and eggs.

Place two tortillas slightly overlapping on two dinner plates. Spread equal amount mashed beans over each tortilla. Top each tortilla with an egg, then ladle 1/4 cup salsa around each egg. To crisp ham, heat medium skillet over medium heat until hot. Add diced ham.

Cook and stir 2 to 3 minutes, until edges are crisp.

Sprinkle ham and peas over salsa, then sprinkle with cheese and cilantro. Garnish with plantain slices, lime wedges and cilantro sprigs, if desired.

Fry 3-4 at a time until lightly golden on each side. If possible, shape them into little dishes with raised edges. Sprinkle cheese on each memela, spoon on sauce, heat them in a 350F oven for 2-3 minutes.

Recipe supplied by Xoco Restaurant 5th Avenue between 38th and 40th

info@xocolatier.com.mx Tel. 984 803 1750 facebook.com/xocolatier

CROSSWORD

VIRGO AUGUST 23RD  SEPTEMBER 22ND You might experience some conflict as a powerful link comes to a head this week. If you spot this coming, try to deal with it sooner rather than later to avoid unnecessary problems.

LIBRA SEPTEMBER 23RD  OCTOBER 22ND A fun transit could bring someone new and interesting into your life. Whether this turns into a friendship or something a little more, you'll enjoy this chance to have a delightful experience.

SCORPIO OCTOBER 23RD NOVEMBER 21ST You might feel like kicking back and enjoying a break. If you're hoping to push ahead with a plan or idea, you could face red tape or objections from other people that might cause delays.

SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 22NDDEC 21ST You may feel eager to connect with new people or move ahead with a project. You might need to tread with care with your finances, as a powerful transit could cause you to rethink your strategy.

CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22NDJANUARY 19TH Try not to make a conflict worse than it already is by insisting on having your way. If you can be willing to consider a different approach, things could turn out well for everyone involved.

LAST WEEK'S SOLUTION

CLASSIFIEDS

February 4-10, 2014

Classifieds

FIND ME A HOME

MISSY

RESTAURANTS XOCOLATIER RESTO. For the best traditional Mexican and American style breaksfasts, eggs Benedict, house specialties, fresh coffee, juices and daily lunch specials. Wines and coctails. Wi Fi and air conditioning. On the corner of the 5th, Ave. and 38th. Free Parking available.

Missy is an adorable four year old cat looking for a permanent home, as her guardians are unfortunately leaving Playa. Missy was rescued as a kitten from the jungle and is a highly intelligent, loving animal with a gift for playing soccer! She is fully inoculated and spayed.

RESTAURANTE PATANEGRA. Delicious homemade Spanish food. Try the best tapas, paellas, cold cuts and more. Fine selection of Spanish red and white wines. On 26th St. between Avenues 10 and 15. 984 877 0701. Facebook Restaurante Patanegra.

If you would like to offer Missy a home, please contact Cheryl on 984 100 3889 or email teedoffmexico@gmail.com

THE WEEKLY

G D tip

RESTAURANT RAFAELA Offering fresh or frozen wheat grass juice, also the safest choice pasteurized eggs with no hormones or antibiotics from Kosher certified vegetarian hens. More info at www. safeeggs.com Located at Paseo Tulum, Plaza Golf Drive, Playacar Phase 2.

Phone 803 23 54/984 145 6255

Stop Your Dog From Jumping Up Dogs greet each other nose-to-nose and want to do the same with us. Since our noses are not at their level, they jump up to reach them. To manage your dog's behavior, you could do one of the following: Confine him in another room or restrain your dog on a leash, teach your dog that he gets no attention if he's jumping on you or anyone else. Teach your dog to do something that is incompatible with jumping up, such as sitting. If he's not sitting, he gets no attention.

Ask a family member or friend to assist with training. Your assistant MUST be someone your dog likes and wants to greet.

15

MEDICAL & DENTAL

Give your dog the "sit" command. The greeter approaches you and your dog. If your dog stands up, the greeter immediately turns and walks away. Keep repeating until your dog remains seated as the greeter approaches. If your dog does remain seated, the greeter can give your dog a treat as a reward.

OFFSHORE HEALTH BENEFITS LTD. Global medical insurance and air ambulance For expatriates throughout Latin America.

Access to top-rated hospitals throughoout Mexico, USA, Europe and beyond.

25% discount through The Caribbean Expatriate Medical Group No application or agent fees.

Vonage (USA) 512 296 4976 www.offshorehealthbenefits.com BOKANOVA DENTAL CENTRE Cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, orthodontics, oral surgery, endodontics ENGLISH SPOKEN Plaza Paraiso 10th Avenue South, near the entrance to Playacar Playa del Carmen. Telephone 984 803 1043 www.bokanova.mx MD PLAYA MEDICAL Specialists in endocrinology, cardiology, general medicine, psychiatry, orthopedics and trauma, dermatology, gynaecology ,obstetrics and children's medicine.

Plaza Paraiso Caribe. 5th Street between Avenues 10 & 15. For appointments call 984 803 0648. info@mdplaya.com www.mdplaya.com

SUFFERING FROM HEARING LOSS? Missing out on conversation?

Audifonos del Sureste are stockists of Starkey hearing aids 18 months guarantee and servicing available.

Telephone 984 169 5375, English spoken www.audifonosdelsureste.com.mx GENERAL SERVICES ECOMECANICA AUTO REPAIR SHOP 29th Street South Mza 299 Lt. 2 Colonia Ejidal, Playa del Carmen Telephone 984 803 9926 info@ecomecanica.com www.ecomecanica.com VACATION RENTALS, HOTELS & APARTMENTS NORTH AMERICAN STANDARDS PROPERTY SERVICES Management, rentals and sales at their best.

Playa del Carmen, Mexico.

CALL OR EMAIL US TODAY! 984 873 3548. website: rentals@nasplaya.com OASIS 12 Luxury Boutique Condominiums OPEN HOUSE MON to SAT 11am - 3pm 20th Avenue & 12th Street Telephone 984 111 3164 www.area-international.com CONTACTS & PERSONALS ROTARY CLUB PLAYA DEL CARMEN SEASIDE English speaking weekly meetings at Barro Negro Restaurant 38th Street and Flamingo Street Tuesdays 12.30pm Visitors are welcome, for more information email kwdoug1@yahoo.com NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS English spoken Tuesdays and Fridays 5.30pm.

Spanish spoken Monday to Friday 7pm.

35th Avenue and 34th Street, Playa del Carmen info@naplaya.com TRAVEL & TRANSPORT TAXI SERVICES 24 hour service throughout Playa del Carmen and Cancun TELEPHONE: 984 877 3858 / 3859 / 3860