Edition 28 by theplayatimes

Weekly · Year 01 · Number 28 · 10,000 copies · 16 Pages

RY Y EVEESDA N D WE

April 9-15 April, 2014

www.theplayatimes.com

LOCAL NEWS

Fishing Tournament

The Chuk Kay Fishing Tournament in Tulum, April 11-13, is considered the Grand Slam of Quintana Roo

SUCCESSFUL RETURN OF THE

BY GEMA GARCÍA

WORLD’S MOST BEAUTIFUL BIRD

>04 ·SPECIAL · DINING OUT

pair of rare Quetzal birds, called K´uk or Kukuul by Mayans and Quetzaltototl by the Aztecs, have become part of an ambitious local breeding program. Listed by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature as a Near Threatened species, these vibrantly colored birds, which are considered to be one of the most beautiful in the world, remain only the high cloud forest of the Southern state of Chiapas. Over the last 25 years, conservation efforts have seen the number of these striking birds rise threefold, however, they still remain a threatened species. In the United States, the birds can presently be seen only atthe Dallas Zoo. In Mexico,

the birds can be viewed at the Miguel Álvarez del Toro Zoo (Zoomat), at Tuxtla Gutiérrez, Chiapas. Zoomat was founded in 1942 and has worked toward conserving the Chiapan fauna and for several years, has managed a successful breeding program of the Quetzal (Pharomachrus mocino mocino). The Quetzal can be found from the south of Mexico to the west of Panama, encompassing Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua and Costa Rica. It inhabits only rainforests between altitudes of

3,280 and 9,842 feet above sea level. The bird has been declared an endangered species in Mexico due to the severe deterioration of its habitat and illegal hunting for its plumage, however, it can be seen in its natural habitat at “El Triunfo” Natural Biosphere located in the Sierra Madre mountain range in Chiapas. The Quetzal has been a symbol of nature and mesoamerican culture since ancient times. The Maya considered the Quetzal a sacred animal, a symbol of life, fertility and abundance. Its vibrantly green feathers were once used as currency as well as an embellishment for the costumes of Mayan priests or royalty. Kill-

ing or injuring a sacred Quetzal was an action considered worthy of the death penalty. During the bird’s reproductive season, it displays long tail feathers, which can reach over 3 feet in length. At the end of its reproductive season, the bird molts 75 percent of its feathers including its highly characteristic tail. The new Quetzal habitat at Xcaret is part of an agreement between Experiencias Xcaret and the Ministry of the Environment and Natural History of the Chiapas State Government and aims to preserve and support the breeding of the species. The program will be managed by Rodolfo Raigosa, Xcaret’s wild fauna manager.

You can see the Quetzal Did you in the wild in the know that…? El Triunfo Biosphere, Chiapas

Restaurant Review

This week we visited Zenzi Beach Club and Bar and sampled the varied menu of this popular spot on the beach

>09

ENTERTAINMENT

Comedy Festival

Dan Schissel, the man behind Stand up! Records and founder of the Akumal Comedy Festival speaks to TPT

>11

>Editorial April 15 sees Total Lunar

Eclipse

On the evening of April 14-15, depending on your location, a spectacular lunar eclipse will take place in the Americas. This will be the first in a tetrad of total lunar eclipses. This means four consecutive total lunar eclipses when the Earth shadows the entire moon, which will be directly between the sun and Earth. This event will be particularly spectacular as it will be visible from both North and South America. The total lunar eclipse in the Yucatán Peninsula will be at its maximum phase at around 2.45 a.m. April 15, with the total phase lasting 78 minutes. According to NASA, four successive total blood red lunar eclipses, followed by six full moons, start in a week and will finish September 28, 2015. The moon will appear red or as a Blood Moon during the eclipse due to it being lower in the sky and absorbing the dispersed light from the Earth’s sunrises and sunsets.

Omar Tornel

Managing Editor omar@theplayatimes.com

María Morote

Copy Writer maria@theplayatimes.com

Gema García

Chief Reporter gema@theplayatimes.com

Marco Antonio Balcázar Sales and Marketing Manager toni@theplayatimes.com

Iliana Ceballos

Art Direction iliana@theplayatimes.com

Efrén Velázquez

Graphic Design efren@theplayatimes.com

Distribution Advertising Sales sales@theplayatimes.com

THE PLAYA TIMES RIVIERA MAYA'S COMMUNITY PAPER

Periódico Semanal. Número de Certificado de Reserva otorgado por el Instituto Nacional de Derechos de Autor: (PENDIENTE). Número de Certificado de Licitud de Título: (en trámite). Número de Certificado de Licitud de Contenido: (en trámite). Domicilio de la publicación: Avenida 15 Sur Mza. 8 Lt. 02 Local 02. Col, Centro, Playa del Carmen, Solidaridad, Quintana Roo C.P. 77710. Imprenta: Extreme Energy, S.A. de C.V. Calle 1a. Sur, Mza. 227, Lote2, Col. Ejidal, Playa del Carmen, Q, Roo. C.P. 77710. Distribuidor: Meridian Media, S.A. de C.V., 15 Ave. and 1 South, Col. Centro, Playa del Carmen, Solidaridad, Quintana Roo, CP 77710.

YOGA FLASH MOB

IN PLAYACAR L Photos: Agency

distribution@theplayatimes.com

Flash mob yoga on Playacar beach

The total lunar eclipse in the Yucatán Peninsula will be at its maximum phase at around 2.45 a.m. April 15

WEDNESDAY 81°/64° Partly Cloudy 10% chance of rain NNW at 17 mph

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

81°/66° Partly Cloudy 0% chance of rain NE at 10 mph

86°/60° Partly Cloudy 20% chance of rain ENE at 9 mph

ast Sunday was a quiet beach day at Playacar beach, just like any other… Until a spontaneous flash mob broke out at 3 p.m. with over 60 mob members taking part in a pop-up yoga practice on the beach. The event, organized by Independent Playa director Diego Torres-Coló told The Playa Times after the 40 minute practice that the aim was to create awareness of the spiritual and health oriented side of Playa del Carmen, which in addition to the bar and club scene makes this resort so popular with tourists. “Everyone visiting Playa del Carmen knows about the nightlife and places to go, but Playa is more than that. There are amazing people living here who come with another purpose. Those who live here know that. This flash mob was filmed and photographed and will be posted on various social media outlets including Independent Playa´s Facebook page and YouTube. We hope our followers will share it so the video will spread and thousands of people from all around the

world will see this side of Playa del Carmen,” said Torres-Coló. Local yoga instructor Alan Montaño guided the yogis to the music of drums, guitar and flute through their spontaneous practice much to the amusement and enjoyment of surprised beachgoers who looked on and joined the free class.

ERRATUM Last week the phone number for The Freshy Fish & Co. seafood restaurant was incorrect. The correct number is 984 803 0656.

SATURDAY 86°/70° Scattered Showers 30% chance of rain ESE at 12 mph

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

87°/72° Scattered Showers 30% chance of rain ESE at 14 mph

88°/77° Partly Cloudy 10% chance of rain SSE at 16 mph

85°/75° PM T-Storms 30% chance of rain SSE at 10 mph

Photos: Independent Playa

DIRECTORY

April 9 - 15, 2014

April is Autism Awareness Month BY GEMA GARCÍA

In 2007 there were 40,000 autistic children diagnosed in Mexico

every 1,000 children. The American Autism Society reports that in 2007 there were 150,000 diagnosed autistic people in Mexico, 40,000 of which were children. Despite these figures, the municipality of Solidaridad does not have a specific center to provide treatment for autistic individuals. Julieta Calderón, president of Space for Comprehensive Care (ESAIN) Playa del Carmen, explained that the main problem is a lack of hospitals with an appropriate autism diagnosis strategy, which results in inaccurate statistics. She stressed the importance of informing people about autism and refuting myths that are associated with the disorder. Calderón pointed out that, due to preconceptions regarding autism in Mexico and around the world, many cases go undetected and those affected are marginalized by society. Calderón, who has an autistic son, said that it is imperative for parents to recognize when their child may have a problem. Early detection of the disorder can help these children develop specific abilities; abilities that could help them successfully integrate with other children. She also suggests people avoid referring to individuals as autistic and instead, use the term condition rather than disease. Calderón points out that children do not have to suffer from autism if well-treated. “Yes, it

is true that they are different, but they must be treated as equals,” she says. On April 2, as a part of UN awareness initiatives, facilities of the National System for Integral Family Development as well as other buildings around the city, were illuminated in blue lights. To continue with the awareness campaign, on April 27 El Papalote Educational Community along with Teknobike and the sporting event company EntusMarcas, are hosting Yo Corro X Día (I Run For A Day) race. The event will begin at 7 a.m. at Plaza 28 de Julio to celebrate Autism Awareness Month. For more information call 984 144 4645. Members of ESAIN Playa del Carmen will also be providing autism awareness lectures at local schools during the month of April. Calderón says that they are continually fundraising to build a center where up to 120 children from Solidaridad can receive the necessary support. Those interested in donating or volunteering can contact Julieta at 984 607 8601. Calderón concluded by stating that, “All children that have been diagnosed with autism have a name first: Mateo, Carl, Juan; secondly they are people who can paint, swim, add and subtract, and finally, after taking into account all their aptitudes, they are children with autism.”

New Ancient Mayan Village Discovered Near Merida BY GEMA GARCÍA On April 1 The National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) announced the discovery of a ruined Mayan settlement near the town of Kanasin, Merida. Archaeologists unearthed the settlement while building the new Merida-Chetumal highway and estimate that around 4,000 inhabitants may have once called this village home. Carlos Peraza Lope, a researcher and archaeologist from INAH, said that the settlement belongs to the Late Classic Period (800-900 A.C.) At the site, experts discovered temples, altars, PreHispanic decorated facades, housing, metates (rectangular stone mortars used to grind grains), tools, vessels, masonry works, and green jade beads, among other artifacts. The site has been christened Xiol, which is the name of a nearby henequén hacienda (a ranch producing henequén, a type of agave used to make ropes and bags). So far, INAH’s experts estimate that the Xiol site was occupied for a long period of time: from around 500 B.C. until the arrival of the Spanish in the 1500s. INAH will continue to excavate this 13 square-mile area until the end of May when it should be open to the public. One of the temples discovered at the settlement is only 6 miles away from the highway, which will allow visitors easy access.

Xiol will be part of an eight-Mayan-settlement route which is being restored by INAH. When complete, the route will begin at Xiol and connect with the sites of Tehuiz, Petectunich, Tepich, Acacen, Telchaquillo and Hoal before ending in Mayapan. Eduardo López Calzada, INAH’s Yucatan delegate, said the Public Works being carried out in the area by the Communication

and Transport Ministry will have to be modified to adapt to the patrimony preservation laws in order to protect the archaeological remains. “It is an important transport project that spans from Merida throughout the Yucatan. Nevertheless, it will have be rerouted to avoid the

Photo: Agency

Photos: Agency

or over 40 years, April has been designated as Autism Awareness Month. According to the American Autism Society, one out of every 88 children worldwide are born with this condition. What’s alarming, however, is the continually increasing rate of autism. In 2000, seven out of 1,000 children suffered from autism while in 2008, this figure rose to 11 out of

LOCAL NEWS 03

The astronomic observatory at the Mayan ruins of Mayapan

2,000 archaeological sites in the Yucatan,” notes López Calzada.

LOCAL NEWS Photos: Paulina Angheve

Chuk Kay Fishing Grand Slam Gearing Up for Another Tournament Photos: Pescaenelcaribe

BY GEMA GARCÍA

et your gear ready for the Fourth Chuk Kay Fishing Tournament set for April 11-13. Ahmed Gómez Blancas, tournament coordinator, says this year they expect 40 boats to participate overtaking last year’s figure when 32 boats were part of the Grand Slam of Quintana Roo. The tournament is being held at Playa Pescadores in Tulum. Tournament organizers, together with Romalda Dzul Caamal, director of the Sports Department of Quintana Roo, say the event will launch with the traditional Dinner of Captains on April 11, where contestants can meet and mingle before competing. Gómez Blancas has announced prizes, saying this year’s first place prize will consist of a car; second place is $12,000 peso and a motorcycle; third place is $12,000 peso; fourth place is $5,000 peso and fifth place prize is $3,000 pesos. Apart from being a fun event, the tournament also aims to promote Tulum as a tourist and fishing destination.

The rustic dock was built four years ago

Playa del Carmen The winners of the Chuk Kay Fishing Tournament 2013 with a dorado fish Over the years, the competition has attracted both local and international participants, most of them angling amateurs. Gómez Blancas says that the registration fees will be used to support technical sports schools in Tulum to help students who will be participating at the School Olympic Games of Tulum. Tournament organizers hope that Tulum

Fishermen waiting for a bite at last year's competition

will become a source of future young athletes. Those interested in participating can register at the Sports Office of the City Hall of Tulum on Avenida Tulum Oriente, Manzana One, Lote One in Colonia Centro. Registration fees are $2,500 peso up to two days before the event and $3,000 peso the previous and day-of the event.

Says Farewell to Wooden Dock

BY GEMA GARCÍA The Harbor Master of Playa del Carmen announced that the muelle rústico, the rustic wooden dock between 12th St. and 14th St., is to be dismantled. The dock was built four years ago during the administration of ex-mayor Román Quian Alcocer. It was built in order to provide a boarding area for tourist service agencies, but was never used due to structural deficiencies. David Antonio Galeana García, Captain of the Port, confirmed that the decision to remove the dock has been agreed upon between the Federal Maritime Land Zone (Zofemat), the Civil Protection Department and the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (Semarnat). “It is 100 percent certain that the dock will be destroyed. We need to prevent accidents and keep installing the buoy system along the public beaches, which is a safety measure that we greatly need here in Playa del Carmen,” said Captain Galeana. Nevertheless, he added that the main reason the dock will

be removed is to obtain the blue flag certification for Playa del Carmen’s beaches. This status is awarded by the European Foundation for Environmental Education. It guarantees that the beaches meet certain cleaning, safety and environmental preservation standards. “The certification of local beaches is feasible, since they are a good example of cleanliness and safety,” said Captain Galeana. It is expected that the exact date for the removal of the pier will be determined after the Easter holidays. “Obviously, these kinds of wooden structures built in the sea cannot be removed instantly. There will be a plan in order to avoid damage to the seabed and the beaches and to guarantee the safety of the boats docking there,” said Galeana. The intended use for the dock (passenger boarding) never materialized, but instead, it became a popular boardwalk for locals and tourists. Over the years, lack of maintenance has caused severe deterioration. This Easter could be your last chance for a family photo next to the picturesque rustic dock.

COMMUNITY 05 Photos: Gobierno de Q. Roo

April 9 - 15, 2014

Passion of Christ Procession in Playa del Carmen BY GEMA GARCÍA

aster holidays are one of the most important celebrations in Mexico, especially since 83 percent of the population are Catholic. Semana Santa or Holy Week in English, is the Easter event that runs between April 13 and 21. During this week, many people take part in religious events celebrated by various churches. Playa del Carmen residents who observe Semana Santa can join church services starting April 13. One of Playa del Carmen’s main churches, Parroquia de Nuestra Señora del Carmen (Church of Our Lady of Carmen) on 15th Ave. and 12th St., is where the majority of locals attend mass in celebration of Easter. English-speaking masses are held each Sunday at 12 a.m. Practicing catholics observe this time of year with abstinence or fasting for Lent (eating just once a day). They also refrain from eating meat on Ash

Wednesday and Good Friday, the reason being meat symbolizes the crucified body of Christ. The Viacrucis or Station of the Cross is the most spectacular tradition held during the Holy Week. This procession, where people reenact the pilgrimage carrying the cross, represents the different stages (stations) that Christ lived while remanded until his crucifixion and eventual burial. The Viacrucis procession in Playa del Carmen will begin at 12 a.m. on April 18 at Lázaro Cárdenas Park on 30th Ave. in Colonia Colosio. The pilgrimage will continue over 30th Ave. and Avenida Juárez to finish in Playa Piñatas on First St. South and the beach, next to the public dock. More than 60 actors will enact the Passion of Christ using the sea as a background. Around 2,000 people are expected to attend this year’s event. The Passion of Christ play is scheduled for 3 p.m., the hour Jesus Christ died according to Hebrew tradition. It is recom-

mended to those interested in attending to wear light clothes, especially children and older people, since the midday heat is very intense and the procession and play takes approximately two hours. For more information, contact Iglesia del Carmen at 984 873 01 88 or email igdelcarmen@gmail.com. Although variations of the Passion of Christ take place in many cities around Mexico, it is performed very realistically in Iztapalapa, Mexico City. The person that embodies Christ carries a 200-pound wooden cross along a journey of several miles and then symbolically pinned to the cross. For those wanting to participate in something less realistic, there are numerous other processions that consists of parishioners carrying Virgin and Christ statues through the city while offering prayers. Processions are held around the country from Holy Thursday (March 17) to Easter or Resurrection Sunday (April 20).

The annual reenactment of the Passion of Christ

Photo: Facebook Playa Bicicletero

Local Cycling Embassy Organizes Mega Bike Ride

The cycling group Bicineta at one of their Wednesday night bike meets

BY GEMA GARCÍA The Cycling Embassy of Playa del Carmen is organizing a Macro Pedaleada, Mega Bike Ride. The event is being organized to celebrate World Bicycle Day on April 19 as well as to introduce the association to the bicycle community. The rally will begin at Plaza 28 de Julio, on 20th Ave. and Eighth

St. at 5:30 p.m. and wind through the main avenues of the city. So far, 150 people have registered to take part, however, organizers are expecting a higher attendance on the day. The association, originally founded in the Netherlands, is a network of private and public companies working together with local authori-

ties to promote cycling. Other community cycling groups like Bicineta, which organizes bike rides every Wednesday in Playa del Carmen, are joining in the event. The Cycling Embassy is planning activities that will make the rally more dynamic. One activity is the Slow Race where an award will be presented to the last person to cross

the finish line. Prior to cyclists hitting the streets, association staff will be briefing everyone on local traffic regulations to ensure safe cycling and they will be accompanied by a road safety team. While the objective is to attract as many participants as possible, Iván Orozco, president of the Cycling Embassy, said that the ride will not be

very long, enabling children and seniors to participate. At the end of the parade at Plaza 28 de Julio, the association will raffle a bicycle and give recognition to participants. To view the itinerary or to post questions about the event, you can contact the Cycling Embassy about the Mega Bike Ride on their Facebook page Playa Bicicletero.

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April 9 - 15, 2014

DISCOVER MEXICO

The Buzz in Playa del Carmen: The sweet legacy of honey production BY MARLO HERESCO

Photos: Agency

The Melipona bee produces the purest honey in Quintana Roo

oney production is one of the most traded industries in the world. While virtually every country on the planet produces its own honey, each of these countries also imports almost as much honey as they export. The reason: diversity.

There are approximately 20,000 different species of bees in the world, each of which gather nectar from a wide range of plants that in turn, produce their own distinct flavor and grade of honey. When it comes to top honey-producing countries, however, Mexico is a firstrate example. Home to more than 40 indigenous species of bees that produce honey year round, Mexico is the third top honey export country in the world, accounting for 7 percent of the global market; 40 percent of which, is produced from the Yucatán Peninsula. According to native bee researcher Dr. Stephen Buchmann from the University of Arizona, Mexico also offers something other countries do not -- stingless bees. Buchmann, who has sampled hundreds of varieties of bee honey from around the world says, “The best-tasting honey comes from the royal lady bee, a stingless species that the Maya people of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula have cultivated for 2,000 years.” Although the tropics along the Yucatán Peninsula are comprised of over 500 bee species, it’s the Melipona beecheii, or as it’s referred to by the Mayans, kolil kab (royal lady), that

remains a favorite. Due to its high natural grade and unique taste, natives still use the honey to make a fermented balché, a ritualistic alcoholic beverage similar to mead. The honey is also used as a sweetener and remains highly regarded for its antibiotic properties. This species of bee was considered by ancient Mayan’s to be a link to the spiritual world, one given to them by the bee god, Ah Muzen Cab. South of Tulum is the village of San Antonio Segundo where 80-year-old Don Porfírio Chimal Kanchoc and his 32-year-old son, Julián produce Mexico’s prized stingless bee honey. Don says, “There are some 40 species of stingless bees, and they produce the finest honey.” He explains that while the European and Africanized bees, which have become the Yucatán’s largest competitor, will rise early and work throughout the night, “The Melipona bee gets up around noon. It is very selective. It will, it seems, only take nectar from the most beautiful flowers.” There are very few stingless bee keepers like Kanchoc and his son left to inherit the traditions, knowledge and skills from the

now-old Mayan men and women; the very people who created renowned fame for the Yucatán’s honey production. A tribute to this tradition, however, can be seen each year during the full moon of June and December during the Melipona Bee Ceremony at Xel-Há. To know if your honey is the real deal, there are two simple ways to tell (aside from reading the label). To determine if your honey purchase is pure, drop a spoonful into a glass of water. If the honey dissolves, it is impure. If it holds its ball-like shape, it is pure. Another quick test is to coat a cotton candle wick with the honey. If the honey burns, it’s pure.w Photos: Agency

Hecho in México BY MARLO HERSECO

Shopping is an exciting part of any vacation, especially when you’re in an area that offers a range of unique items not to be found anywhere else. In many instances, this is the case with the items along the Riviera Maya. From Mayan calendars to sensational chocolate, shopping around Playa del Carmen is in itself, a treasure of uniqueness. Finding that special one-of-akind item is even more exciting when it’s authentic, meaning it’s a locally made or produced product. There is rarely anything more disheartening than to find an item you love adorned with a ‘Made in China’ sticker. To know for sure if items truly are made in Mexico, you’ll need to learn hecho in Mexico, which translates to made in Mexico. There are hundreds of rural villages along the Riviera Maya, over into the Yucatán state (you may have seen them if you’ve visited Chichen Itza) and deep inside the interior jungles that surround the state of Quintana Roo, the state that is home to

Look for the Hecho in Mexico official stamp Playa del Carmen. It is in many of these villages where the local people hold true to culture and ancestry by hand making -- with love and devotion -- most of the items you see in the shops of Playa del Carmen and around the Riviera Maya in general. Whittled woodwork, painted sculptures, locally fired clay

Most of the handicrafts in the shops of Playa del Carmen are handmade locally pottery, Mayan masks, oil paintings, leather Aztec calendars, woven hammocks, beaded jewelry and hand stitched embroideries including Mayan dresses and Aztec clothing, are only the beginning. Then there are the local foods: cultivated coffee beans, distilled tequila, agave (cactus) honey, cocoa products,

pure vanilla (this is the real stuff, without artificial flavorings!), bee honey of more than 40 varieties and chocolate, as well as salsas, seasonings, candies and pastries. While bartering can be one way to shop, most shopkeepers are not shop owners and really cannot offer a lower price, unless of course,

the item is a factory produced replica of which millions already exist. For the real deal -- authentically hecho in Mexico items -- however, keep in mind that the prices you see reflect the handmade love and devotion that went into making them, and that you are buying that one-of-a-kind item you were searching for.

HEALTH & BEAUTY

&BEAUTY

HEALTH

Chiropractic Parameters of Care BY DR. RICHARD MCCARTHY There are two main parameters for chiropractic care. The first parameter is one that focuses on rebalancing the structural problems that a patient has. This requires regular adjustments and, in some cases, may be required three times per week. This schedule can last from two to six weeks and is dependent on many factors. For example, how long you’ve had the problem, how severe it is and the location of the problem in your structure, i.e. a weight bearing joint may take more time to correct; you may suffer hereditary weaknesses; do you continue to irritate your imbalance with daily work or activities? There is no magic number for the amount of required visits, but generally each patient is examined then receives regular adjustments. They are then reexamined after a set time to access progress. A chiropractor can give you an idea of the work required, but as mentioned above, there are many factors that can come into play. If a chiropractor takes on your case, he or she should be able to tell you what kind of results to expect and provide a timeline of treatments. The second parameter for chiropractic care is the maintenance aspect. This involves occasional care after your condition or problem has been corrected. It can be once a month, every six weeks or once every two months. Remember that your spine goes through many physical and emotional stresses in a single month, and that these stresses often irritate your weak areas first. Instead of waiting for problems to return, many people opt for regular preventative and maintenance care. These chiropractic parameters aim to align your structure in equilibrium and then keep it that way. Having a spine and nervous system in good shape is an essential part of good health.

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

Tel.: 984 873 2098

A place in the sun International travel usually means more time spent outdoors —and a higher risk of skin cancer.

BY ROBERT TILLOTSON

hen trekking to foreign countries, the responsible traveler takes measures to prevent infectious diseases. They update their vaccines, pack mosquito repellent and buy water purification tablets to ward off nasty bugs. But how many travelers give a thought to skin cancer? When traveling and living abroad, we naturally spend more time outside than we do in everyday life. We walk, sightsee, lounge on beaches and loiter in sidewalk cafes. More time outside means more sun exposure, which can, of course, lead to skin cancer. Specifically, skin cancer is caused primarily by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. People living and traveling at lower latitudes, higher altitudes and in cities, where sun rays bounce off concrete, are at the highest risk. However, skin cancer is a universal concern. Whether traveling in the Eastern Caribbean or Eastern Europe, everyone should take precautions against the sun’s damaging rays. The two most common types of skin cancer — basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas — are highly curable. However, melanoma, the third most common skin cancer, is

Follow these simple tips to help protect yourself from skin cancer: Use a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day. Apply it 20 minutes before heading outdoors so that it absorbs into the skin before you begin to perspire. No matter what SPF you choose, reapply every two hours and after swimming or sweating – even if you’re using a so-called “sports” or “water-resistant” sunscreen. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to all exposed areas, including the face, ears, feet and hands.

Using sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher helps protect from skin cancer the most dangerous because it tends to spread throughout the body. While all skin cancers can be fatal, melanoma is the most deadly. Globally in 2000, more than 200,000 new cases of melanoma were diagnosed and 65,000 melanoma-associated deaths occurred, according to the Work Health Organization (WHO). Children and adolescents are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of UV radiation, the agency reports. And, the incidence of melanoma is increasing. For example, between 1972 and 2002

in the U.S., the number of new cases of melanoma increased by 150 percent and the melanoma mortality rate spiked by 44 percent, according to a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report. The damaging effects of UV radiation accumulate over the years, and skin cancer is often the result of decades of exposure to the sun, reports the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health Safety (COOHS). So, a daily habit of protecting your skin from sun exposure is the best way to defend against skin cancer.

Use a high-SPF balm on your lips. Even if the weather is hot, consider wearing long sleeves, pants and a wide-brimmed hat. Tightwoven fabrics and dark colors provide the most protection. Wear sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays to protect your eyes and the skin around them. Avoid midday sun and seek the shade – but that doesn’t let you off the hook for sunscreen. UV rays still seep under umbrellas and trees. Keep in mind that children and teens are particularly at risk for skin cancer, so if you are traveling with kids, make sure they take the precautions above. Sources: CDC, COOHS, WHO

Ditch the DEET: Natural Mosquito Repellents closer to hand than you think and can offer a healthier, more eco-friendly alternative to DEET based products.

Protect yourself naturally

BY LOUISE WEBB At this time of year, mosquitos are rife and can make a relaxing tropical vacation hard work or a cocktail on the balcony bothersome. There are many natural alternative repellents, some of which may be

DEET, or diethyl-meta-tolua, is a chemical solvent repellent that was developed for jungle warfare during the Second World War. It has been banned in Canada in anything over a 30 percent solution, and various research reports have cited DEET in connection with skin reactions, insomnia and in severe cases seizures and inhibiting central nervous system function. CITRONELLA Citronella, derived from the lemongrass plant, was first used in Asia as hair oil and was subsequently found to be an effective insect repellent. It has also been found to repel fleas and ticks. It is also commonly used in foods as a flavoring additive and is Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food

and Drug Administration. It is recommended that is applied every 30-60 minutes. EUCALYPTUS OIL Another natural bug buster, eucalyptus oil, contains the active component cineole that has proven repelling properties. It is also an ingredient in many popular mouthwash brands, so in an emergency, try using your mouthwash to perturb mosquitos, it will need to be applied directly on the skin. NEEM OIL Neem oil has been used in ancient Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. It is extracted from a plant of the mahogany family native to the Indian subcontinent. Long-established in India as an insect repellent, it is becoming more widely available in the US. SOYA OIL Soybean oil was first registered as a pesticide in 1959 and

if applied to the skin has proved effective at preventing bites for anywhere between one to eight hours depending on the species of mosquito. Organic soya oil is would be preferential for those wary of GM products, as soy crops are widely genetically modified. Add a few drops of citronella, lemongrass, or eucalyptus to make a more potent repellent, which will also have the skin emollient benefits of the soya oil base. Of course the most effective way to repel mosquitos is to cover up. Wear long, loose comfortable clothing, covering as much of your body as you can. Mosquitoes can even bite through tight clothing. Light colored clothing deters bugs from landing and keep feet covered. Although mosquitoes can bite at any time of the day, peak times are before dusk and dawn.

April 9 - 15, 2014

DINING OUT 09

Restaurant review

Zenzi,

a Breath of Fresh Air BY E. FLORES

his week, we were invited to sample the menu at Zenzi Beach Club and Bar. I must admit as a visitor to Playa for several years now I have never made it to this venue, and to be honest I didn’t really know why. Zenzi first opened for business New Year’s Eve 2007. It can be found on 10th Street and the beach. We visited Zenzi for dinner and were greeted by the lilting sound of live reggae music and a wonderfully cooling onshore breeze, which is always a welcome relief in this ever-increasing humid season. Tables were available on the decking or on the sand and each romantically lit with paper bag nightlights. As I was enveloped by the Caribbean cool breeze, music and subtly illuminated coconut palms, I was transported from the hustle and bustle of commercial Avenida

Quinta to a more charming place with a laidback island feel. We took a table on the beach and kicked off our sandals and watched the twinkling lights of Cozumel across the way. For starters we shared the lightly floured calamari rings accompanied by sweet chili sauce. The plate size was easily suffi-

cient as an appetizer for two and I was literally overjoyed with the dish. Such a simple food, one would think, but I haven’t enjoyed a plate of calamari in Playa for an age, as it is so commonly served with the texture of ultra chewy India rubber bands. As this is one of my favorite tapas style dishes, I was thrilled to have found a “go-to place” for well-prepared and tender calamari; I hear the secret is presoaking the squid in milk. For entrees my dining partner and I

choose the salmon fillet with horseradish, served with garlic mash potatoes and noodle vegetables and sesame tuna with coconut rice and red Thai curry sauce respectively. However, as usual, I got to try both. The tuna was excellent and even though it slipped my mind to instruct the server to place the order rojo or rare, the chef obviously knew his tuna and made an executive decision, and it was perfect. The sauce was mouthwatering and the coconut rice a fitting accompaniment. The salmon too was excellent, although for me the horseradish wasn’t fiery enough, for me it has to make your eyes water like a good wasabi paste, but that’s the masochist in me. Zenzi’s allure is the location and has a casual beach bar ambience with more class than some, and a solid menu. It’s the perfect place to chill out and enjoy the cool breeze with some live music and cocktail or three. The music starts nightly from 5 pm.

ART & CULTURE

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Hits Playa Photos: A Pasión Arte

BY GEMA GARCÍA

he non-profit A Pasión Arte theatre group will present the musical José el Soñador y su Túnica Multicolor (Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat) on April 8, 9 and 10 at the Xcaret forum. The performance, based on Tim Rice´s script and Andrew Lloyd Webber´s musical score, will include 28 actors and 10 musicians. All profits will go to supporting talented low-income students from various local schools. The theater association was created 12 years ago with the aim of developing young people’s artistic talents and social skills through musical theater. While the group works without permanent facilities and actors are unpaid, their main focus is to provide young Playa del Carmen people with a leisure activity. One that allows them to work as a team regardless of their age or level of experience. José el Soñador y Su Túnica Multicolor is sponsored mainly by local companies and civil associations. The direction team is

Performers rehearse for the show which begins on April 8 headed by Francisco Miranda, while the music is directed by Marta de Juana. Matías Rouiller is the voice director and Aldo Adonay Sánchez, choreographer. It is the fifth performance by A Pasión Arte after other successful shows such as Les Misérables, Shrek: The Musical and Jesus Christ Superstar. At the April 1 press conference, Marta de Juana says, “These types of shows are made possible only with the support of everyone. We want talented young people to have the chance to be educated in the artistic field. Everyone from local en-

trepreneurs, businesses, governmental institutions and members of the public who believe in the project, have joined us. Thanks to them, we can produce another show. We invite everyone in Playa del Carmen to come. A large audience will also encourage more young people to join our theater group.” Tickets and information about José el Soñador y su Túnica Multicolor and other A Pasión Arte projects are available via their Facebook page A Pasión Arte Teatro. For additional information phone 984 183 3244 or contact pasionplaya@hotmail.com.

Independent Film Festival Arrives in Quintana Roo Every two years, the civil association Voces Contra el Silencio, Video Independiente (Voices Against Silence, Independent Video) organizes the Latin American Gathering of Independent Films and Documentaries All Voices Against the Silence. The event consists of more than 50 participating cultural centers from Mexico City and includes 15 cities of the Republic. This year, Playa del Carmen was chosen as the only venue in Quintana Roo to host the eighth gathering, which was held March 29 to April 5. More than 30 free films and documentaries were shown at La Ceiba Park, the event’s main venue, as well as at other institutions connected to the cultural sphere including the School of Scientific and Technological Studies of Quintana Roo (Cecyte). This year, the gathering attracted full-length, short films and documentaries made by professional and amateur directors from countries all around the world such as Mexico, Brazil, Portugal and Germany. Voces Contra el Silencio works

Photo: El Cine Club

BY MARÍA MOROTE

The big screen at La Ceiba Park together with El Cine Club, an association originally founded in Mexico City, to arrange free outdoor film showings at different venues. El Cine Club organizes free film shows every Friday at 8 p.m. at La Ceiba Park. This Latin American Gathering was a unique opportunity

to watch fringe independent creations which are often of a higher quality than mainstream commercial films. Azul Intangible (Intangible Blue, 2013) by Mexican filmmaker Eréndira Valle is a perfect example of the type of socialthemed films selected by the

festival’s organizers. This BBC style wildlife documentary was shown on April 4 at La Ceiba Park, highlighting the endangered wildlife in the state of Baja California Sur. Eréndira’s team spent several months filming unique images of humpback whales, whale

sharks, rays and the ecosystem in which they live. Voces Contra el Silencio continuously organizes free events throughout Mexico. Those interested in their activities can check their Facebook page Voces contra el Silencio or their website www.contraelsilencio.org.

April 9 - 15, 2014

ENTERTAINMENT

Akumal Comedy Festival Front Man WEDNESDAY

JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT MUSICAL at 7 p.m. at the Open Forum of Xcaret Park. For tickets contact Facebook page A Pasión Arte Teatro or call 984 183 3244. NOTORIOUS FILM SHOWING at 7 p.m. at El Eden Art Garden on Constituyentes Ave. and 95 St. in Colonia Ejido. Watch Alfred Hitchcock’s films every Wednesday. Free entrance. FRAGMENTOS PERFORMANCE by Silla Móvil Dance Company at 6:30 p.m. at the Cultural Center of Playa del Carmen on Avenida Cruz de los Servicios and 115th Ave. Free entrance. FASHION WORKSHOP every Wednesday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Le Lotus Rouge Cultural Centre, on Second St. and 35th Ave. Create your crazy shoes. Cost is $50 peso for material. AK LU’UM ECO MARKET every Wednesday from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. 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

THURSDAY

JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT MUSICAL at 7 p.m. at the Open Forum of Xcaret Park. For tickets contact Facebook page A Pasión Arte Teatro or call 984 183 3244. GUELAGUETZA FAIR from 9 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. at Plaza 28 de Julio, on Eighth St. and 15th Ave. Traditional dance and music shows and a handicraft market from the state of Oaxaca. Enjoy the fair until April 27. AFRICA DOCUMENTARY SHOWING from BBC’s series Earth Flight at 7 p.m. at El Eden Art Garden on Constituyentes Ave. and 95 Street in Colonia Ejido. Free entrance. WAGGLE WALKS every Thursday at 9 a.m. at the new P.A.R. Shelter. Have fun helping dogs become leash trained, balanced and exercised. Contact info@playaanimalrescue.org

FRIDAY

SPANISH CLASSES every Friday from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Chichen Itza Language School on Fourth St. and 10th Ave. Practice your Spanish conversational skills for free with other students. COCOS BEACH ORGANIC MARKET every Friday from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Condos Alizes, Avenida CTM and 46th St. Homemade bread and baked goods, gluten-free products, fresh herbs, organic eggs, handmade products, cosmetics, clothing and much more.

the Facebook page El Cine Club.

SATURDAY

WOMEN’S CIRCLE. Every Saturday at 11 a.m. at Caracol Marino Cultural Centre. 80th St. between 10th and Fifth Ave. For more information contact centrocaracol@gmail.com. STREET ART SATURDAYS every Saturday at 6 p.m. at Plaza 28 de Julio on Eighth St. and 20th Ave. Enjoy street art performance for free. CONSCIOUS RELAXATION WORKSHOP. Every Saturday at 10 a.m. at La Ceiba Park on First St. South and 60th Ave. in Colonia Ejidal. Voluntary contribution.

SUNDAY

FREE CAPOEIRA AND SAMBA LESSONS from 5 p.m. to 12 p.m. at Zenzi Beach Club on 10th St. and the beach. Listen to bands Samba Zero and Samba Maya Group. ARTISTIC MORNINGS every Sunday at 11.30 a.m. at Le Lotus Rouge, on Second St. and 35th Ave. Enjoy various artistic performances.

MONDAY

FREE SPANISH LESSONS FOR TWO WEEKS every Monday, Wednesday and Friday for beginners and every Tuesday and Thursday for intermediate students. Classes are from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Chichen Itza Language School on Fourth St. and 10th Ave. FLAMENCO DANCE LESSONS every Monday and Friday from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Caracol Marino Cultural Centre. Lessons provided by flamenco dancer Brenda Barba. 80th Street, between 10th and Fifth. For more information contact centrocaracol@ gmail.com.

TUESDAY

FREE TANGO LESSONS every Tuesday at 8 p.m. on the roof of Be Playa Hotel on 26th St. and 10th Ave. Free tango lessons by Diego and Lucila. PAINTING LESSONS every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 12 a.m. and from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. At Le Lotus Rouge, on Second St. and 35th Ave. Cost: $100 MXN to cover materials. MEXICAN GOLDEN AGE FILMS showing every Tuesday at 7 p.m. at the Cultural Center of Playa del Carmen on Avenida Cruz de los Servicios and 115th Ave. Free entrance.

Dan Schissel BY E. FLORES

his week The Playa Times spoke to Dan Schissel, the man behind Stand Up! Records and one of the founders of the annual Akumal Comedy Festival, together with Stand Up! Records Live Events Director, Gus Lynch. Now in its 3rd year the festival is also co-organized by local business owners Marieke and Scott Brown, as well as Comedy Playa member Craig Norton. The festival runs April 29 to May 3 and 100 percent of all profits will go to the local Red Cross delegations of Tulum and Playa del Carmen. How did Stand Up! Records come about and where from? Stand Up! Records started out of the ashes of a music record label, -ismist Recordings that I had started in my dorm room at the University of Nebraska in 1992. In 1998, partially out of frustration with music, I moved to Minneapolis, where I am currently based. Comedy came about accidentally when I heard on the radio that Lewis Black from The Daily Show was going to be in town. I grabbed a pile of music CDs, and wrote him a note that I handed to an usher at the club. I was lucky enough to meet him in person after the show, and made a pitch to him. Eight months later, we were recording his first CD. What was the first band you signed and are they still performing? The first band I worked with in 1992 was a Lincoln, Nebraska band called Such Sweet Thunder. They only occasionally reform nowadays, but it is always a joy when they do. How did the crossover to comedy happen? Well, as I mentioned, the Lewis Black record was my first comedy release. It came out on the old -ismist label. His management at the time managed Doug Stanhope, and Stanhope’s publicist worked with Jimmy Shubert, so before you knew it, I had four comedy CD’s on the old label by three artists, all outselling the nearly seventy music records I had put out in the previous eight years. The time had clearly come to change the focus to comedy. The name and ideas all came while I was visiting one of my best friends in Atlanta. I contacted a friend in the art world (Shepard Fairey), and he designed the killer logo, and the rest has been an incredible yet surreal voyage. How did Stand Up! Records become involved with the Akumal Comedy Festival? Why Akumal? Akumal came about because Minneapolis comic, and cofounder of the Festival (as well as Director of Live Events at the label) Gus Lynch. His family has long ties to Akumal. He invited my wife and I on a trip with he and his wife, as well as three comics and their significant others. Prior to this trip, I had never

been to any part of Mexico before. I was really taken with the community, both in it’s beauty and spirit and saw there were things we could do to help the community, and use comedy as the way to do it. Plus, I live in the land of what has seemingly become perpetual winter, so it is nice to see some sun. What were your impressions of Mexico and the Riviera Maya? Well, now I have been coming down for five years, but I initially had no idea of what to expect. My impressions have been overwhelmingly positive. I find the Riviera Maya as so many before me, a beautiful place, filled with incredibly great people, wonders of nature and of civilization. The festival in three year’s time has taken solid root in this fertile combination, and that makes me really happy. Who are you looking forward to seeing at this year’s festival? I am in regular contact with nearly all of the acts on the festival lineup. I am excited to see them all perform. I am most excited to see our first show entirely in Spanish. It was something I’ve wanted to be part of the festival, and I am glad that it’s finally happening, and I know that Rojo Perez and Chris Garcia will do a great job. I hear that we’ve added Tony Gabriel, and that is an act I’ve heard about, but never seen, so I am excited about that as well. All profits from the festival are going to local Mexican Red Cross organizations, what does the Red Cross mean to you, apart from being the world’s largest humanitarian movement? Well, all the obvious connotations, of course, but on a practical side, the Red Cross delegations of Playa del Carmen and Tulum both serve Akumal, and the Festival will be able to help with the unique needs of both delegations, which will improve service for all. We hope that this is the start of a lasting relationship. It’s nice to be able to have an impact and something that all of us involved with the festival are incredibly proud to be involved with. Photo: Dan schissel

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

Dan Schissel, the man behind Stand Up! Records

ENTERTAINMENT

CURRENCY AND METALS DOLLAR Buy 12.70

Sale 13.30

DOLLAR CANADA Buy 11.73

Sale 12.07

POUND Buy 21.41

Sale 22.02

EURO Buy 17.67

Sale 18.18

YEN Buy 0.12

Sale 0.13

REAL Buy 5.81

Sale 5.97

PESO ARGENTINA Buy 1.60

Sale 1.64

SWISS FRANC Buy 14.49

Sale 14.91

* April 8 * Source Banco de México * Flags courtesy www.redpixart.com

Pick yourof free copy

Available at the

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

April 9 - 15, 2014

ENTERPRISE FOCUS

Reciclatón Project Named Candidate for Ecologic Merit Award Photos: Gobierno de Solidaridad

BY GEMA GARCÍA

he local Environment Department is celebrating the sixth anniversary of the Reciclatón, a program that collects an average of 90 tons of recycling waste every year. Due to the success and outstanding recycling figures of the organization, Reciclatón has been nominated for the Ecologic Merit Award, the most important environmental recognition in Mexico. The Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources grants this award to institutions or associations that work to benefit the environment. Liane Aké, the director of the Environment Department, says that Reciclatón was started seven years ago. Its main purpose is to separate recyclable waste, provide appropriate trash disposal and raise recycling awareness among the general population. The organization also aims to extend the life of local landfills. Aké explained that Reciclatón helps to build a greener city and motivate institutions and entrepreneurs to participate in ecological projects. If Reciclatón wins the Ecologic Merit Award, the Environment Department would receive $100,000 pesos to improve and promote the program. Currently, the project collects an average of 23 tons of recyclable waste every month throughout

Reciclatón accepts all kinds of recyclable waste its 12 recycling centers. These recycling centers are open to the public. Collection dates are published on the Facebook page Gobierno de Solidaridad. Recycling centers can be found at Plaza 28 de Julio in Colonia Centro on 20th Ave. and Eighth St; at the Poliforum on Avenida Juárez and 110th St; at La Ceiba Park on 60th Ave. and First St. South in Colonia Ejido, at Lázaro Cárdenas Park on 30th Ave. and 76 St. in Colonia Colosio; at Centro Maya on the highway.

Everyone is encouraged to bring their recyclables, separated and clean, to these centers the first Friday of each month. The centers accept PET, hard plastics, glass, paper and cardboard, aluminum, toner, oil and domestic appliances. The program has achieved such great success that the Environment Departments of other municipalities within Quintana Roo has visited Reciclatón in Playa del Carmen to learn improvement strategies for their own programs.

CLIENT TESTIMONIALS We were very satisfied with the response from the public after advertising with The Playa Times, we have been asking our new customers and many of them came due to our advertisement, some even from Puerto Aventuras! This has been the best result regarding advertisement for us, since we tried others before with a poor response. We have no doubts in highly recommending The Playa Times, and shortly will be advertising with them again. Regarding the service, we are very satisfied since our doubts were addressed accurately and rapidly. Their ad prices are reasonable and we hope they stay that way!" Eduardo Avila Rafaela's Restaurant Playacar

I am Dr. Richard McCarthy a new chiropractor in Playa. The Playa Times has been a blessing for me, a person with a new business in Playa that wants people to know about his location and services. I have advertised with the Playa Times since they first started last fall. I have dealt with many at the office staff and can say that they are very professional and are producing a high quality, interesting source of information in English. I enjoy reading the articles and am learning a great deal of information about the area and its culture. I regularly receive new patients directly from the Playa times. Regular adds will generate exposure and increased traffic for any that advertise!” Dr.Richard McCarthy President of CONICAL HEALTH TECHNOLOGIES INC

People queuing at Plaza 28 de Julio to hand over their collected trash

Advertising Sales sales@theplayatimes.com

TAKE A BREAK

HOROSCOPES ARIES

Capirotada (Mexican Bread Pudding)

MARCH 21STAPRIL 19TH Change, change and more change! You could be put through your paces. All things considered you might welcome a radical decision that helps liberate you from too much routine.

Ingredients (10 servings)

TAURUS APRIL 20THMAY 20TH

medium saucepan. Bring to a boil and let simmer for about 15 minutes. Set aside.

1 (1 pound) loaf white bread 2 tablespoons butter 1 cup raisins 1 cup pineapple chunks, drained 4 ounces Monterey Jack cheese ¾ cup chopped walnuts 10 cinnamon sticks 2 cups white sugar 2 cups water

Maybe you should pay attention to any restless feelings within. If a key relationship seems to reach a critical point this week, you might need to scramble for answers.

GEMINI MAY 21THJUNE 21TH The kind of people you’re mixing with lately could be partly responsible for your thoughts. Some of them could seem quite wild and wacky and act as a catalyst for further developments.

CANCER

Toast bread and butter each slice on one side. Arrange toast in a single layer in a large casserole dish. Sprinkle bread with raisins, nuts, and pineapple. Slice cheese and place over this mixture. Repeat layers until all bread is used, making sure enough cheese is left over for the top. Pour the cinnamon syrup mixture over everything in baking dish.

Directions Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Combine water, cinnamon and sugar in a

JUNE 22ND JULY 22ND Future potential and career status could seem

Bake for 30 minutes. Remove from oven and cool for at least 15 minutes.

to be on shaky ground. Perhaps you’ve already experienced unexpected changes and gotten used to a job being around one day and gone the next.

LEO JULY 23RD  AUGUST 22ND

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

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

Those expansive horizons seem to be calling out to you more than ever. You can almost hear the rustle of the wind and feel the ground rising up to meet you as you explore new places and potentials.

WEEKLY SUDOKU PUZZLE

VIRGO Enter digits from 9 to 1 into the blank spaces

(August 23rd – September 22nd) Perhaps just the idea of getting a loan will give you all you need to forge ahead. While this may

Every row most contain one of each digit

be true, you might need to tread with care. You could overextend yourself and suffer further down the line.

LIBRA

So must every column, as must every 3x3 square

SEPTEMBER 23RD  OCTOBER 22ND Relationships could be a disruptive force in your life. If you’re tired of having someone’s unthinking actions wreck your best-laid plans, step up to the plate and have that conversation.

SCORPIO OCTOBER 23RD NOVEMBER 21ST Daily deep relaxation may help keep your nervous system in good working order. The current lineup hints that the less you worry, the better your

LAST WEEK'S SOLUTION

health and overall mood.

SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 22NDDEC 21ST Love and creativity can serve an interesting purpose this week. A brilliant idea or budding romance could take you outside your comfort zone just enough

CROSSWORD

to sharpen you up.

CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22NDJANUARY 19TH This is one week when you may benefit from having a backup plan. You might find it hard to avoid interruptions that seem to take the wind out of your sails. You may appreciate the support of good friends.

AQUARIUS JANUARY 20THFEBRUARY 18TH Even though you may be hoping for a quiet week, you might not get it. Powerful aspect patterns you "have" to do something.

PISCES FEBRUARY 19THMARCH 20TH This may be a week of decisions, especially where finances are concerned. Perhaps you can no longer escape the need to take timely action where an overdue bill, debt or a lack of funds is concerned.

LAST WEEK'S SOLUTION

could escalate tension, leaving you with the feeling that

April 9 - 15, 2014

CLASSIFIEDS

Classifieds RESTAURANTS When to Use Tú and Usted The use of tú and usted, which both mean you, defines the formality of a Spanish conversation. Tú is less formal than usted. You use tú when you’re talking to someone of the same age, the same rank or in a casual conversation. The use of tú is recommended to address children, close friends, family and people you have confidence in.

FIND ME A HOME

Usted signifies a more respectful way of talking to someone, such as older person, someone you have just met or someone you consider to be of higher rank, such as a boss or a professor.

- Strangers - People whom you wish to show respect - An older person who you want to show respect (for example your friend’s grandfather) - An honorable figure or an authority - A public audience You should use tú to address:

Switching from usted to tú When two people get to know each other it’s better they start using the word tú when addressing each other. In Spanish, this is called tutearse, that is, to talk tú. On the other hand, if you don’t want to have a closer, more intimate conversation with someone, or if you want to keep the conversation professional, you should stick to calling that person usted. If the person who you are talking to replies, tutéame, por favor or me puedes tutear, means you can go ahead and use tú.

Anwers to office - Part II

internet - silla - portapapeles marco - librero - agenda pizarrón - apagador

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. 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

You should use usted to address:

- Friends - Children - Classmates - Family - Pets - In general anyone who addresses you using you.

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.

MEDICAL & DENTAL

Palomita Palomita was born about December 2011 Palomita (Popcorn in English!) is a very pretty little girl that has lovely spotted fur, and one ear that looks like it was dipped in ink! She was found in the jungle in May 2013, in very bad shape, but is doing extremely well now. Palomita is very confident, playful and loves to be the center of attention!

If you have any questions about Palomita, or any of the dogs of Playa Animal Rescue, please contact Pat at info@playaanimalrescue.com

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 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

EMERGENCY

060

POLICE

872 0599

TOURISTIC SECURITY

1800 987 8224

FIRE DEPARTMENT

879 3669 / 70

CIVIL PROTECTION

877 3053 / 54

RED CROSS

873 12 33

CITY HALL

877 3050

HARBOR MASTER

887 2695

HOSPITAL GENERAL

206 1690 / 91 / 92

CLINIC AMBULANCE

873 0885

HYPERBARIC CHAMBER

873 13 65

TRANSIT

877 33 40

*SOS MARINA (dial from Telcel)

*767 627 462