Edition 93

B i m o n t h l y · Ye a r 03 · N u m b e r 93 · 20,000 co p i e s · 24 Pages · Septemb e r 2 1 - O c to b e r 0 4 , 2 0 1 6

Monitoring

S MASP IDE

the Second Largest Reef in the World

t h e p l a y at i m e s . c o m

IN

Healthy Reefs Initiative (HRI) is an NGO that has been monitoring the mesoamerican reef for ten years. Recently, they conducted their last monitoring trips for the year in preparation for the 2017 report card on the health of the reef. Find out more… >P. 4

BEACH LIFE A Plastic Ocean?

>P. 4

ENTERPRISE FOCUS M i Pa t i o

>P. 21

Photo: Healthy Reefs Initiative (www.healthyreefs.org)

· DISCOVER MEXICO

· SPECIAL SECTION

FIGHTING FOR TRANSGENDER RIGHTS

FIDANZA

Meet lawyer and Playa resident, Alejandro Barrera Padilla, who successfully argued one of the first gender identity cases in Mexico City

>P. 7

Photo: Fidanza

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Sep 21 - Oct 4

The Teatro de la ciudad is hosting Fidanza - the annual d a n c e f e s t i va l . P r o d u c t i o n companies from all over the world will be performing.

>P. 8&9

Looking for something to do?

Check out our What’s On section for a list of things to do including live music and dancing, yoga, markets and special events

>P. 16

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September 21 - October 04 2016

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September 21 - October 04 2016

Editorial DIRECTORY Rebecca Page General Manager & Editor edition@meridianmedia.mx

Edgar E. Mena Ian MacKenzie Copy Editors copyeditor@meridianmedia.mx

Efrén Velázquez Art & Design design@meridianmedia.mx

Ana Martínez Brand Manager Cell: 984 169 1637 marketing@meridianmedia.mx

Erika Serra Public Relations Cell: 984 119 1586 publicrelations@meridianmedia.mx

Octavio Moreno Sales Executive Cell: 984 179 8347 octavio@meridianmedia.mx

Omar Coral Distribution distribution@meridianmedia.mx

CONTACT US AT: 984-803 1446

Photo: Rebecca Page

Uber Excited?

BY REBECCAPAGE

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axi drivers don’t have the best reputation in this region. They have been accused of overcharging, not picking up locals when tourists are nearby, being terrible drivers, and generally operating like a mafia. Maybe that’s why when the Uber rumors started, residents who rely on taxi services jumped at the idea of having an option other than taxis.

If you are a visitor to the area, you may not know the big hubbub going on right now in our state about Uber. Last week, Uber became available in Cancun, and it was met by protests from the taxi union and harassment of drivers who were suspected to be Uber drivers. There are two sides in the debate, which is quite heated. One side is supportive, if not excited, to have Uber available in Quintana Roo. The other side is anything but supportive. Their argument is that Uber is illegal according to

state laws, and Uber will put over 25,000 families at risk financially who rely on taxi services for income.

Local social media sites have been going crazy with posts about Uber. The ones I have read are mostly pro-Uber with people telling their taxi horror stories. The most common problem with taxis is overcharging. I have lived here for almost four years, I have been overcharged a handful of times, and each time I have argued with the driver. Sometimes I win, sometimes I lose. My biggest complaint is how they drive. I´ve been in a taxi in NYC going 90 mph down Madison Avenue (very late at night) and that pales in comparison with some of the experiences I have had with taxis here in Playa.

On the other side, the taxi drivers are expressing their anger towards Uber in a few different ways. You will see taxi drivers with signs painted on their windows like ¨Empresa ilegal and fantasma Uber¨ (Illegal and false business Uber) and ¨No

efectes nuestras familias Uber¨ (Don´t affect our families Uber). There have also been protests on the highway, and even harassment of suspected Uber drivers, including damage to their vehicles and small mobs of taxi drivers surrounding vehicles with passengers inside.

Regardless of the arguments for or against Uber, the kind of behavior being displayed by some taxi drivers is counterproductive. I am less likely to support a cause when violence and intimidation are are the tactics used to get a message across. Wouldn’t it be wiser to come to the table like professional adults and try to work together to find a solution to the concerns on both sides?

front page, we said México was celebrating 195 years of independence. Nope. They celebrated 206 years. I calculated wrong since I used the year the war of independence end-

ed instead of when it started, which is how it is supposed to be calculated. Lesson learned and two Mexican history books have already been downloaded to my Kindle.

We want to hear what you think. Visit our Facebook page to post comments about Uber coming to Quintana Roo and the taxi drivers´ reaction to it. Facebook/ theplayatimes.

info@meridianmedia.mx /theplayatimes

Correction:

@ThePlayaTimes

To err is human. To forgive is divine. Yeah, this one is embarrassing. Last edition, on the

playatimes

THE PLAYA TIMES RIVIERA MAYA'S COMMUNITY PAPER Periódico Quincenal.

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: Plaza Paseo Coba, 2do piso local 301, Playacar fase II, Playa del Carmen, Solidaridad, Quintana Roo C.P. 77710. Impreso en talleres Grupo Megamedia Prolongación de Montejo número 301, entre 40 y 42, fraccionamiento Campestre, Mérida, Yucatán. Distribuidor: Meridian Media, S.A. de C.V., Plaza Paseo Coba, 2do piso local 301, Playacar fase II, Playa del Carmen, Solidaridad, Quintana Roo C.P. 77710.

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B E AC H L I F E

September 21 - October 04 2016

Only

14%

A Plastic Ocean?

of plastic packaging is recycled

Our beautiful oceans and seas are being choked by our consumptions of plastics. It washes up on our shores and poisons marine flora and fauna. Find out more about the endless threat to our planet caused by plastics.

BY FLORENCIA CERUTTI

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bout 90% of the world’s seabirds are likely to have plastic in their guts; 300 species of marine animals eat or get caught in plastic litter.

The ‘great Pacific garbage patch’ is the size of Texas extending 6 meters down and containing about 3.5 million tons of trash. Studies show that not one square mile of ocean surface anywhere on Earth is free of plastic.

Why? Because plastic never goes away. Every single piece of plastic ever made still exists.

In the first decade of last century, there was a boom in plastic use given its relatively low cost, ease of production, and versatility. If we think about it, we are surrounded by it as it has replaced many traditional materials like wood. This success has led to many serious environmental problems worldwide due to its slow decomposition rate after discarded. Sadly, more than 40 years have passed since the introduction of the universal symbol of recycling, but only 14% of plastic packaging is recycled.

We do a terrible job of making sure plastic products are reused, recycled or properly disposed of. Studies

90% of world’s seabirds are likely to have plastic in their guts species of marine animals eat or get caught in plastic litter The Great Pacific Garbage Patch contains

3.5

million tons of trash & is the size of Texas Reuse by using items as much as possible before discarding them (rethink before you throw away).

Plastics & trash from all over the world in Xcalak, Quintana Roo / Photo: Florencia Cerutti

say that about a third of all plastics produced escape collection systems ending up in the sea. If we keep producing and failing to properly dispose of plastics at today’s rates, plastic will outweigh fish in the ocean within the next 20 years.

What to do? Many things can be done to lessen our impact on our only home. Visit wwf.panda.org/ who_we_are/wwf_offices/armenia/ help_us/eco_help_living for tips on reducing your impact on the environment. Overconsumption and overuse

Monitoring the Second Largest Reef in the World

Transect for benthos / Photo: Florencia Cerutti

BY FLORENCIA CERUTTI Do you know where the second largest reef in the world is? In Latin America. The Mesoamerican Reef starts right here in the Yum-Balam Protected Area in Quintana Roo, Mexico. It is a fringing reef that spans 1000 km across Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras. It includes over 500 species of fish, 66 species of hard coral, manatees, marine turtles, one of the largest aggregations of whale sharks, mangroves, coastal lagoons, and seagrass meadows, among others. Of all species of hard coral found in Mexico, 85% are present in this particular reef system. The main activities around this reef across all four countries are tourism and fisheries and both rely on the reefs’ health.

Healthy Reefs Initiative (HRI) is an NGO that has been monitoring this system’s health for ten years and has also included ecological, socio-economic, cultural and policy factors influencing the reefs’ health. It aims to promote the application of a reef health index and recommendations among managers and policymakers; provide scientifically sound

data; and integrate stakeholders into the reefs’ management.

During the first week of September, the HRI Mexico Coordinator, M. Sc. Marisol Rueda led one of the last monitoring trips of this year with a team formed by trained biologists from local organizations like Centro Ecológico Akumal, Blue Core A.C, and Razonatura. The team traveled to the southernmost sites in Mahahual and Xcalak to do surveys of fish, corals and benthos (invertebrates living in the ocean floor). This data will be part of the 2017 Report Card on the health of the Mesoamerican Reef that will be launched early next year.

This assessment is a very important tool that is taken into account for management plans to achieve the goal of effective conservation as this reef provides major ecosystem services in the area (and the other three countries). The information produced by HRI has been used by CONANP and SEMARNAT (government agencies for protected areas and natural resources, respectively) to propose the new Mexican Caribbean Biosphere Reserve.

Interested in this topic or attending the report launch? Visit www.healthyreefs.org/cms.

of plastic are some of the problems, so Reduce, Reuse and Recycle can be an easy path to help. The key is to become conscious of our habits: Reduce by limiting the number of purchases (rethink before you buy).

Recycle by ensuring that items or their components are put to some new use (rethink what can be recovered).

Interested in The New Plastics Economy? Check: www3.weforum.org/docs/ WEF_The_New_Plastics_Economy.pdf.

Importantly, Playa del Carmen does have recycling programs! There is really no excuse, check Facebook/ Medio Ambiente Solidaridad.

September 21 - October 04 2016

D I SCOV E R M E X I CO 5

September 21 - October 04 2016

DISCOVER MEXICO 7

Fighting for

Transgender Rights in Mexico While practicing law in Mexico City, Alejandro Barrera Padilla was presented a case that peaked his interest. Once he heard Jessicaʼs story, he had an immediate connection.

BY CHRISSEVILLA

A

lthough a law allowing gender change was passed in Mexico City in 2008, transgender people still have to go before a judge and prosecutor to prove the medical change was made. Alejandro Barrera Padilla, 33, is a Mexican lawyer, and now Playa resident, born in the State of Mexico. He is also one of the first lawyers to help transgender people to legally change their identity in Mexico. Alejandro helped Jessica to legally change her gender. Jessica was born a male and started a process of transformation at age 16. In 2009, Alejandro successfully defended Jessica´s right to legally change her identity when a judge ruled to change Jessica’s birth certificate from male to female.

Chris Sevilla: How did you meet Jessica?

Alejandro Barrera: I met Jessica through a co-worker. She mentioned to me that the case would be pro bono, as support to LGBTT community. The goal was to make it possible to legally change on Jessica’s birth certificate as female. I have to say that when I met Jessica for the first time, I saw a complete woman in her. There was no way to distinguish that she was born as a man.

Why did you decide to take the case?

Professionally, the case sounded interesting to me. When I heard her story I had a connection with her immediately. Jessica was 40 years old at that time. She had a very complicated childhood. Her parents expelled her from home when she was a teenager. Jessica had to work as an escort to pay for her bills and survive somehow.

I did it to help society to understand these type of situations and make conscience. She

always felt like a woman trapped in a body that wasn’t hers. I remember she mentioned the moment when she had to go to the hospital for an emergency and doctors kicked her out the moment they realized she was not a woman at all; she was about to die!

Transgender is a term used to describe people whose gender identity differs from the sex the doctor marked on their birth certificate. (source: www.glaad.org) How do you start the process? Did you have an idea where to start?

To be honest with you Chris, I had no idea!

I simply started by doing a very extensive research. I started finding out the differences between transgender, transsexual, homosexual, etc. I had to find the way of linking the words that we were going to use in court to make them match the laws and convince the judge that our arguments were valid. Mexican laws say you must prove that the person has been in psychological treatments, medical treatments and prove that the process has been for a long time. You cannot simply go to court and request a change on your birth certificate like that.

Once you collected all the evidence and documentation, what was the next step?

We all had to agree what we were going to say in court. We had the doctor’s testimony, psychologist testimony and

Alejandro Barrera Padilla / Photo: Alejandro Barrera P.

some witnesses who have known Jessica a long time.

You finally get to court! Can you describe that moment?

I was very nervous! The judge came out, and the session started. The prosecutor started attacking Jessica by saying, “You are not a woman!” I really got mad at that moment and replied to his words professionally, and I showed everyone in the room that the person they were seeing was a complete woman. The process took around two hours with hundreds of arguments. Our witnesses testified, and we all felt good at the end of the meeting.

How long did it take to get a ruling?

Six Months. After being going many times during that time I finally got the resolution in our favor, I don’t remember the date exactly. Jessica’s birth certificate was officially changed. Now, the document says “The baby girl was registered alive”, instead of “the baby boy was registered alive”. From that moment, she was going to be able to get a new ID and passport and all the legal documents she may require with her new identity.

When I read that I felt fulfilled. I felt I served society and, of course, the satisfaction of helping someone.

Alejandro, thank you so much for your time and for accepting this interview.

Thank you for the interview, Chris.

For more information on the topic of transgender rights or for tips for allies of transgender people, please visit www. glaad.org and click on their ¨Our Work/ Transgender¨ section. You can also visit the United Nation´s Free & Equal page at www.unfe.org.

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ENTERTAINMENT

September 21 - October 04 2016

En rojo y en desierto (In Red and in the Desert) Tu e s d ay, S e p t e m b e r 2 0 Te a t r o d e l a C i u d a d 8:00 p.m.

By Daniela Armenta

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choreographic piece in which the creative process and transpersonal psychology coexisted.

Transpersonal psychology is a branch of traditional psychology that integrates the spiritual and transcendental aspects of the human being. It makes us perceive a more significant reality, above and beyond our ordinary lives.

Daniela Armenta uses the primal dance method to deliver the message and to communicate the emotions attached to it. As a result, the choreography is driven by a very genuine and personal force. Daniela pays tribute to people and specific moments that transformed and defined her own life.

Company Brief: A s a co n te m p o ra r y d a n ce a r t i s t , Da n i e la h a s w o r ke d w i t h a large list of international choreographers and danced on important venues throughout the country.

Algoritmo Peter Pan (The Peter Pan Algorithm)

S u n d ay, S e p t e m b e r 2 5 Te a t r o d e l a C i u d a d 7 : 0 0 p. m .

B y E d i s e l C r u z ( C h o r e o g ra p h y & D i r e c t i o n ) E d w i n S a l a s ( Pu p p e t s )

Ilusión de la Noche (Illusion of the Night)

C o m p a n y : A Poc A Poc

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lgoritmo Peter Pan builds up a show based on child’s play and a first-hand encounter with fantasy and adventure elements such as voyages, exploration, inner self-transformation, amazement and freedom.

In a futuristic society, a child called Wendy is educated by an operating system called Hook OS. This system needs to be rebooted. A peculiar character invites her to discover Neverland. Wendy meets the Lost Boys and their leader Peter Pan with whom she generates empathy immediately. On the other side of the island, the ambitious and rational Captain Hook prepares for the definitive invasion and plans on destroying the Lost Boys illusion of a leader. Sirens, pirates, traps and child’s play as an antidote will be the stage on which Wendy will discover the meaning of life and growth from a different perspective. Her struggle lies within herself.

Company Brief: A Poc A Poc was born in 1994 in a globalization environment. Conceived in Barcelona, nurtured by international experiences. It didn’t take a long time to get A Poc A Poc actively involved in this phenomenon, taking this mexican company to many international theater festivals around the world. A Poc A Poc is right at the top with the best theater companies in the Country

S a t u r d ay, S e p t e m b e r 24 Te a t r o d e l a C i u d a d 8 : 0 0 p. m .

By Anton Lahcky & Colectivo Clá C o m p a n y : Colectivo Clá

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he play features different creatures of the night, every night is different and so are they. Each one has a story to tell.

Company Brief: Colectivo Clá began in 2010 Nowadays is directed by Diego Alvarez Sanou and Adrián Arriaga, Costa Rican independent choreographers. Clá Collective is an independent contemporary dance company that earned international relevance and praise all throughout its existence. They´ve been invited to several international festivals in Mexico, El Salvador, Argentina, Panama, Spain, France, Belgium and China. Their work and projects aim at connecting and integrating national and international artists from different disciplines such as improvisation, capoeira, contemporary dance, theater and acrobatics.

September 21 - October 04 2016

(Rua do Lavradio or the Longest Distance Between Two Points)

T h u r s d ay, S e p t e m b e r 2 2 Te a t r o d e l a C i u d a d 8 : 0 0 p. m .

We d n e s d ay, S e p t e m b e r 2 1 Te a t r o d e l a C i u d a d 8:00 p.m.

B y A n a C u e va s

B y Fe r n a n d o M e l o

C o m p a n y : Tannura Danza

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Company Brief: Tannura Danza -Teatro is an independent dance group that formed from the initiative of integrating different dance and music styles into an experimental stage, with the goal of creating their own language to showcase themes that are closely related to the expansion of conscience.

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Rua do Lavradio o la distancia más larga entre dos puntos

MATRE

ATRE is a choreographic production where contemporary and experimental dance comes together with a Spanish flamenco beat to honor the Universal Feminine Energy.

The company chose this theme due to the historic moment we are living in, where women are connecting with their essence on the deepest levels.

The play is inspired by the Tantric tradition which considers everything feminine to be sacred. In the universal divine matrix, the cosmic non-dual presence of masculine and feminine are undivided, they are two faces of the same entity, locked in an eternal embrace of conscience and joy, an empty plenitude. From this union, the world gets born and all of its forms, through the divine dance of a Goddess, an interesting analogy of mother nature dancing to a deep song that communicates her different aspects: The terrible mother, related to death, destruction and transformation.

The White Mother, related with birth, nurturing, growth and expansion. These two aspects integrate on a continuous dance, creating a perfect balance of infinite possibilities to experience existence. These two energies: Creation and transformation are necessary on every evolution process.

From a psychological point of view, this duality exists in our life rhythm, in our experiences, and in our personal processes.

Integrating this duality to our inner self-becomes a sign of personal maturity and openness of heart.

ENTERTAINMENT

C o m p a n y : Tumaka’t danza contemporánea

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HORSE[M]EN M o n d ay, S e p t e m b e r 1 9 Te a t r o d e l a C i u d a d 8 : 0 0 p. m .

By Jaciel Neri C o m p a n y : CEPRODAC El Centro de Producción de Danza Contemporánea

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ccess to the horse, its uses, how to train and ride it, contributed in shaping the symbolic relationships of power and supremacy.

History dictates that the abuse of the horse’s significance, and more so a man using his supremacy capability over the animal also allowed desperate societies to be led and controlled.

But what happened with the development of what leading truly means? What defines a leader? Why is there a necessity to control any human group? Why has society allowed this to happen?

This performance features and questions the significance of the supremacy-leadership conundrum.

Horse(M)en explores the musical and choreographic richness of the traditional Mexican dances.

Company Brief: The contemporary dance production center was established in 2011 with the main goal of promoting the development of contemporary dance in Mexico, through creative processes, research and dance experimentation. It encourages the search of contemporary dance languages that provoke significant experiences in the audience, as well as a visual enjoyment.

In CEPRODAC, resident choreographers get the necessary infrastructure to develop their creative and production processes, without compromising their creative freedom.

CEPRODAC productions have been presented at every major cultural venue in Mexico, Ecuador and France.

ancing gives me means to express my imagination in a non-verbal way, and it produces different physical, psychological and emotional reactions.

We frequently experience dancing in a sensorial way, which allows us to appreciate the true meaning of any given execution, almost with no need of a verbal description.

This exciting and complex transaction between the performer and the audience represents the core and nature of my work. What drives me is the production of meaning and how to communicate it through execution.

This piece is based on borders (both physical and psychological), and it uses multiple theatrical elements such as the muscular actions of a trained body, the music, props, lights and costumes.

With these elements, we try to connect with the audience and its emotions.

- Fernando Melo Company Brief: Tumaka’t danza contemporánea was created in Merida Yucatan under the direction of Vania Duran.

This company promotes innovative projects in the Yucatan State, like bringing communities closer to contemporary dance from a very young age with their “school dancing seasons.”

They have taken their plays and performances to all of Mexico and Latin America.

September 21 - October 04 2016

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Night Art Exhibition On a recent evening in Cozumel, Khela de Freslon and Oscar Larrauri shared their love of Cozumel through their photographs

BY RAQUELGARZAGONZALEZ

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The cacao seed was of great importance for the Maya civilization / Photo: Vanessa Nini

Kaokao Maya Chocolate House

BY VANESSANINI Let’s go off the beaten path and visit the Kaokao Maya Chocolate House!

In 2007 a chocolate-loving family opened the first chocolate factory in Cozumel. Their dream was to operate a small business dedicated to the creation of handmade Mexican chocolate products. The name of the company is Kaokao and its products are delicious, made without any preservative or artificial flavors.

The factory is open from Monday to Saturday. They make chocolate discs, chocolate bars, dark chocolate, chocolate chili, almond, milk, coconuts and honey infused with cacao nibs, cacao powder, cacao butter or others like cacao beauty products, tee shirt, etc, everything is natural.

The owner told me she was proud to share her passion for the history and culture of cacao with her visitors and explained how handcraft chocolate is made.

The tour: TKaokao tour is 60 min, every hour from 9 am to 2 pm, Monday to Saturday.

Learning: You will start with a nice coffee and an overview of the importance of

he nights are really quiet in Cozumel, but you can always find something to do. On this occasion, the art exhibition

by Khela de Freslon & Oscar Larrauri was held, where they told us a little about themselves, their love for the Riviera Maya and shared their photos of Cozumel Island.

They have been living on the island for several years, capturing their love for this land though photographs and showing a vision of their traveler spirit.

“We arrived at the island four years ago on a holiday visit like most people. And like many who come here we liked it and ended up staying. In those four years, we’ve taken our photography to many different levels. We work together and complete one another, while discovering all the treasures that the island has to offer. It seems to be never ending. Be it underwater, the people, the jungle, the wildlife or a starry night on a deserted site, the beauty of the light is what gets us.

This is our first exhibition here in Cozumel, and we tried to convey our own personal view of the island by restricting it to just a few large images. We wanted to show how the many treasures of the island slowly came to us, by the use of delicate natural light and dreamy locations. We show emotions through shadows, impressions through movement and search for a different point of view.

We also wanted to take our work out of the computers and phone screens and make it large for everyone to see. It was a challenge and we really enjoyed it. After working for over 20 years in the printing industry in Spain and over 10 years in photography in a few countries our quality standard has moved very high. We’re very proud and excited to show this selection of our work, and in such a great setting.

We tried to convey our own personal view of the island...

Khela de Freslon & Oscar Larrauri Photographers

El Palomar is right in front of the ocean.”

You can find more about their art on their Facebook page Facebook/ok more photos

the cacao seed to the Maya civilization.

You will also discover the tools used by the Maya to make this sacred beverage, chocolhaa’ (hot cocoa).

Doing: Craft your own chocolate. Live the experience of grinding cacao beans with an authentic chocolate mill and make your own chocolate mix to take back home. This is really great!

Tasting: On the tour you will try the different flavors of the cacao during its process (raw and roasted cacao beans, cacao paste and the product line and cacao cooking uses).

You can also go directly to the factory store without doing the tour and find prices that are lower than anywhere else in town.

The entire facility is wheelchair accessible.

The tour includes some walking, sitting and a little standing on concrete. There are no stairs on the tour.

How to get there: I recommend taking a taxi to Kaokao, it takes approximately 20 minutes from the ferry pier on primera Bis Sur between 80 & 85 avenida sur, Col. Flores Magón, Cozumel.

To book, go directly to Facebook.com/kaokaochocolates or visit their website www. kaokaochocolatefactorytour.com.

In their photographs, they capture their love for this land and show the vision of a traveler spirit. / Photo: Khela de Freslon & Oscar Larrauri

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DISCOVER TPT FOODIES MEXICO

There are a ton of options for live music on Cozumel / Photo: Raquel Garza Gonzalez

Live MusiC in Cozumel Visiting the beautiful island of Cozumel and in search of some live music? Here a list of bands and bars to check out eight...er...seven days a week!

BY RAQUEL GARZAGONZALEZ

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here is nothing like enjoying an afternoon or evening with friends with good live music! There are many places to grab a cocktail, a nice dinner or simply dance until your feet can not be more.

On Cozumel, check out the following locations: Sundays: Alberto’s Beach, LSD Rock Band 3:00pm Benito Juarez Park, The Cozumel Band 8:00pm-10:00pm Blue Angel Restaurant, Jesus Abraham Ramirez Osorio (troubadour) 8:00pm-10:00pm Cocktelito, Tequila Shot 5:00pm8:00pm El Palomar, Antonio Montaner Bossa Ricardo Pavia Nova 6:30 la Perlita Restaurant, Abraham Ramirez 3:00pm-5:00pm La Rumba, Blues and Jazz 5:00pm Salsa 10:00pm Turquoise, The Red Eye Band 6:00pm-9:00pm Money Bar, Fugga 6:00pm-9:00pm Sky Reef, Aquino y Su Aguanile 3:00pm-6:00pm Woody’s, Kaoba 8:00pm-12am

Mondays: Alberto’s Puerto Maya, LSD Rock Band 8:00pm Blue Angel Restaurant, Jesus Abraham Ramirez Osorio 8:00pm10:00pm Iberostar, Rock Show with The Red Eye Band 9:00pm Wet Wendy’s, Jazz 8:00pm-11:00 Woody’s, Pako 7:00pm-11:30 Tuesdays: Alberto’s beach, LSD Rock Band 7:00pm Blue Angel Restaurant, Jesus Abraham Ramirez Osorio 8:00pm10:00pm Cozumel Palace, The Red Eye Band 8:30pm La Rumba, Angelito y Su Latin Jam

8:00pm Wet Wendy’s, Bossa Nova 8:00pm11:00pm Woody’s, Fernando and Sylvia 6:00pm-11:30pm Wednesdays: Alberto’s Puerto Maya, LSD Rock Band 8:00pm Blue Angel Restaurant, Jesus Abraham Ramirez Osorio 8:00pm10:00pm El Palomar, Klass 6:30 La Rumba, Angelito y Su Latin Jam 8:00pm Thursdays: Alberto’s beach, LSD Rock Band 7:00pm La Casa del Habano, The Red Eye Band 8:00pm Woody’s, Pako 7:00pm-11:30pm Fridays: Alberto’s Puerto Maya, LSD Rock Band 10:00pm Benito Juarez Park, The Cozumel Band 8:00pm-10:00pm Blue Angel, Salvador Formento 8:00pm-10:00pm Hard Rock, Aquabellum 12:00pm1:00pm, 10:00pm-1:00am La Casa del Habano, Tequila Shot 10:30pm-1:00am La Rumba, Blues and Jazz 5:00pm, Salsa at 10:00pm Plaza Leza, Xibalbá-Be 11:00pm1:00am Thirsty Cougar, Aaron and Pinky 7:00pm-11:00pm Tiki Tok, Mereketengue 11:00pm3:00am Viva, Fugga 11:00pm Saturdays: Alberto’s Puerto Maya, LSD Rock Band 10:00pm Benito Juarez Park, The Cozumel Band 8:00pm-10:00pm Blue Angel, Salvador Formento 8:00pm-10:00pm El Coctelito, Tequila Shot 5:00pm8:00pm Hard Rock, Fugga 11:00pm Woody’s Kaoba 8:00pm12:00am Viva, The Red Eye Band 12:00am

September 21 - October 04 2016

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TPT Meets:

Joe Mazzeo

T o u r n a m e n t D i r e c t o r o f t h e O H L C l as s i c at M aya ko b a Ten years ago, Quintana Roo hosted the first PGA tournament outside of the U.S. and Canada. Find out why the tournament has been so successful and how it opened doors for other PGA events across the world.

B y Reb ecca Page

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he world’s best golfers will tee off in November for the 10th OHL Classic at Mayakoba. I had the opportunity to sit down with Joe Mazzeo, tournament director for the Classic

H ow lo n g have yo u b een a part o f th e O H L Classi c to u r nam ent?

I have been a part of the tournament since day one. I first arrived here in August 2006. We never thought it would be as successful as it has been, and we are very much looking towards the future.

W hy d o yo u b eli eve it has b een so su ccessfu l?

I t ´s becau se Mayakoba is su ch a fa ntastic d estination for an eve nt like this. There is so mu ch to o f fer in t he entire Riviera M aya a n d the Cancun area - f rom the fa b u lous golf cour se we have, t h e wonder ful hotels, the activi t ie s h ere but most importantly t h e hosp itality people exp erie nce w h e n they come here.

Why d i d th e PGA lo o k to Mayako ba a n d th e R ivi era Maya as th ei r fi rst d esti nati o n o utsi d e th ei r trad iti o nal co u rses?

It really stemmed from OHL, the developer and owner of Mayakoba.

They had this new property and were looking for a way to make a splash. That´s how the relationship started between OHL and the PGA. Mexico is wonderful for events and tourism because of the

proximity to the U.S. For the players it´s like a home game. You’re only a one hour flight from South Florida and only two hours from Dallas and Houston, where many PGA golfers live. OHL Mayakoba, in running the event, has proven to the PGA that they know how to put on a world-class event.

Now, t he PGA To ur h as of f i cial events i n Malays i a, China and starting n ext yea r t he re wi ll b e an othe r PGA tour i n Mexi co Ci ty.

There is also a P GA to ur eve nt i n Pu er to Rico wh i ch di d n ’t exi st before the OHL Cla ss ic a t Mayakoba began. Th e re are a lso six eve nts on their se co n d leve l to ur (we b.com tou r) n o n e o f t hose exi ste d w he n we s tarte d. The re is also a third leve l to ur (P GA To ur Latin America) w hi ch now exists.

None of that was i n p lace wh en the OHL Classic s tarte d . Yo u ca n absolu tely g ive som e c re di t to OHL and Mayakoba for b e i ng t he leader and pioneer s howi ng t ha t this is a booming re gi o n an d t hat it can be done, an d the P GA ha s bee n ab le to grow i n t he re gi on really t hanks to OHL b ei ng t h a t p ioneer and showi n g t he way.

D escr i b e th e co u rse fo r m e.

The golf course is called El Cameleón Golf Club, and that name was chosen for a reason.

Just like a chameleon, our golf course can change its colors without you realizing that it’s changing. You start off on the first hole, surrounded by the tropical jungle and forest, and you wind your way through suddenly you’re in a dif-

Joe Mazzeo Tournament Director / Photos: OHL

fere nt e cosyste m s urrou nd ed by man groves - a ll ver y hea lt hy a nd stro ng . The course cont i nues to win d throug h, a nd you sud denly f i n d yourse lf along t h e dune s a nd the b each . The co urse has ch anged i t s co lors wi t ho ut yo u even rea liz i ng i t .

What is o n e yo u r favo r ite m emo r i es o f th e ev ent?

Running a PGA tournament requires the help of so many people. We have 500 volunteers we’ve gotten to know very well over the years because so many of them are repeat volunteers. We consider them part of the family. There are hundreds, if not thousands of people that in one way or another are involved in making this thing happen. The fact that so

many people have a lot of pride in the tournament has been very satisfactory to me personally. The other thing that has been amazing is seeing how golf in Mexico and the Mexican golfers have evolved over ten years. Ten years ago there we re n’t m any p laye r s play i ng o n the global s tage wo r k i ng to ge t to t he P GA To u r. Este ban Tole d o was really t he o nly one an d he was a g reat player. N ow, Car los Or tiz has b e e n a m em b er of t he P GA To u r t h e la st two year s. Ós car Frau stro a nd Abra ham Ancer m ad e it to the to p leve l . Ot he r p layer s are at t hose d evelo p m e ntal tou r s a nd a re yo u n g and p rom is ing and s how ing t h at t hey can get t he re. Se ei ng h ow gol f in Mexi co ha s evo lve d has b ee n really f u l f illi ng to k n ow th at this eve nt has p layed a sm all par t i n g i ving the m a litt le b it m ore o f a s howcase to b e ab le to develop t he ir ta lent s and get onto the world stage.

F i na lly, I wou ld say G rae m e Mc D owell w i nnin g t he gol f tou rnam en t . G u ys like Char li e Ho f fm an an d H ar r i s E n g l i s h a n d F r e d F u n k - t h e s e g r e a t p l ay e r s t h a t h av e w o n o u r to u r n a m e n t o v e r t h e y e a r s . Ke e g a n B r a d l e y a n d n o w B u b b a Wa t s o n co m ing bac k .

That ’s really sp e c i al to know t hat so m e of th ese to p b e st at hle te s in t he s p or t o f go l f in t he wor ld a re he re play i ng fo r $ 7 m i llion USD of p r ize m oney.

For my com p lete inte r view w ith J oe, p lea se vis i t www.t h e p laya t im e s .com .

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ENTERTAINMENT

SPECIAL EVENT BEACH HOUSE CINEMA, “Napoleon Dynamite”, Wednesday, September 21 at 8:00 p.m., Limited space to 100 people. Details contact playamovienight@gmail.com Thompson Playa del Carmen, 5th Avenue and 12th Street North.

NOCHE DE DOMO “WE LOWER THE STARS TO YOU”, Thursday, Sep-

tember 22 at 7:00 p.m., Sayab Planetarium Domo Digital, Avenue Paseo Central between Avenue Kanthena and Avenue 125.

September 21 - October 04 2016

YOUR HOME ORCHARD , Saturday, September 24, 9:00 a.m. and Sunday, September 25 until 4:00 p.m. Build your own garden at home and grow organic f o o d . C o n t a c t A l e j a n d r o Va s z q u e z 984-149-7840 for cost.

“The awakening of your inner goddess: rebirth reconnection release”. Sunday, September 25 until 2:00 p.m.- 6:30 p.m. Individual $1200mxn, 2 people $1999mxn. Contact Cynthia Sanchez Sosa 984-109-1263.

WORKSHOP

um, Avenue Paseo Central between Avenue Kanthena and Avenue 125.

SOLAR WATCH WORKSHOP, September 25 at 12:00 p.m., Sayab Planetarium, Avenue Paseo Central between Avenue Kanthena and Avenue 125.

“Mars Tuesday” ,

September 27 at 7:00 p.m., Sayab Planetarium Domo Digital, Avenue Paseo Central between Avenue Kanthena and Avenue 125.

“TYPES OF CAVES” CONFERENCE,

LIVE MUSIC & DANCING NOCHE DE DIVAS, Every Friday, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. Concert starts at 7:30 p.m. sharp. Music: Classical, Chanson and Boleros. El Jardín, 20th Street between Ave 10 and 15.

Beers $20 MXN. KARAOKE Every Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. PG´s Mexican Caribe Bar & Grille, 6:30 p.m., Calle 26 on the corner of 1st Avenue next to the Grand Hyatt.

Every Wednesday and Saturday at 9 p.m. at The Dirty Martini located on 1st Avenue between Calles 10 and 12.

It’s a more international Karaoke night, not only for Mexicans.

KARAOKE,

Saturday, September 24 at 7:00 p.m., Sayab Planetarium Auditori-

MARKETS

INTERNATIONAL

Every Saturday at 11:00pm join the band RockStara-

LIVE KARAOKE.

KAVA KASA LOCAL MARKET every

Tuesday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Kava Kasa, 22nd St. and 10th Ave.

oke to live your Rock Star Fantasy.

Choose from 100 songs! La Drinkeria, Av. Petempich, Plaza Punto 115, Local 5, Residencial de los Olivos.

DANCE CLASSES, Tuesday 11 a.m. & 1 p.m., Wednesday 4 p.m. & 6 p.m., Parque La Ceiba, corner of Calle 1 Sur and Avenida 60, For the month of April come try bachata, salsa, cumbia, & merengue. Fee: Donation.

SALSA LESSONS, every Saturday, 9:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., Salon Salsanera Raices, calle 12 between 5th & 10th. Free.

AERIAL DANCE/SILKS Wednesdays and

Fridays 9-10 a.m. Free trial classes for adults at Parque La Ceiba 1st Avenue South and Avenue 60 Diago n a l i n t h e E j i d o. G i v e n b y Ae r o f o bia.

Please wear pants or leggings.

every Friday, 9 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Jardin de Todas Centro Comunitario, Avenida 80 & Calle 3 Sur (Ejido).

ECOTIANGUIS DESAYUNO,

ANIMAL WELFARE

EL ÁRBOL PLAYACAR MARKET, every Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tulum Avenue, Local 6. Playacar Fase II.

ACCIÓN ANIMAL ADOPTION FAIR, every Saturday, 11 a.m.

to 7 p.m. Tenth St. between Ave. 100 and Av. 105, Colonia Ejido. Don’t buy pets, rescue them! Check Facebook /Acción Animal.

PARQUE LA CEIBA TIANGUIS ,

every Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m, Parque La Ceiba, corner of Calle 1 Sur and Avenida 60.

Every Friday from 9 am to 11 a.m. Les Alizes Condos Avenue Flamingo and Calle 46. w w w. fa ce b o o k .co m /C o co - B e a c h E co - M a r ke t-1 9 69 1 8 8 9 7 17 5 4 6 2 / ? fref=ts COCO BEACH MARKET

CHARM SCHOOL, every Saturday, 9 a.m. for 2 to 3 hours. Have fun helping dogs become leash trained, balanced and exercised. Volunteers are picked up at Mega Supermarket, 30th and Constituyentes. Contact info@ playaanimalrescue.org.

SEP 21 - OCT 02

2016

Every Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. located on Calle 3 Sur between Avenues 75 and 80.

JARDIN DE TODOS MARKET

Coco´s KITTEN CUDDLING,

every Saturday 1:00 p.m to 3:00 p.m. Volunteers needed to help socialize

KITS ARTS Saturdays 10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Various art and cultural classes for kids. El Hongo, Calle 19 sur between Av 80 y 85 Ejido. Bring your own plate and cup for your food and drink. And also a fruit donation to help with making fruit waters.

CULTURAL CLASSES

Thursdays 5 p.m. Cooking workshop for kids 6 years and up. El Hongo, Calle 19 sur between Av 80 y 85 Ejido. Bring your own plate and cup for your food and drink. And also a fruit donation to help with making fruit waters.

COOKING WORKSHOP

AERIAL DANCE/SILKS Tuesdays and Thursdays 3-4 p.m. Free trial classes for kids at Parque La Ceiba 1st Avenue South and Avenue 60 Diagonal in the Ejido. Given by Aerofobia. Please wear pants or leggings.

JIU JITSU/MUAY THAI/JUDO Mondays thru Fridays 6-7 p.m. Free trial classes for kids at Gracia Barra Jiu Jitsu. Avenue Constituyentes and Avenue 95, Ejido, in the Evolve Complex.

YOGA Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Single class $60mxn or 5 classes for $200. Casa Ananda Avenue Andres Quintana Roo #2 with the corner of Avenue 75.

Mondays and Wednesdays f ro m 4 p. m . to 5 p. m . . Ac t i va t i o n F i t .

Mondays from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Break Dance. Tuesdays and Thursd ay s f r o m 4 p. m . to 5 p. m . C i r c u i t s .

Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Ballet. Wednesdays f ro m 5 p. m . to 6 : 3 0 p. m . J a z z F u n k .

Fridays from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Acrobats. Fridays from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.Hip Hop. Free trial classes. F & D Kids Club Avenue Constituyentes and Avenue 95, Ejido, in the Evolve Complex.

DANCE

PLANETARIUM FOR KIDS Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m. Thursdays at 1:00 p.m.

Saturdays at 12:00 p.m. Learn about properties of plastics and e l a s t i c i t y. A g e s 4 y e a r s a n d u p . $25mxn per participant. Sayab Planetarium Avenue Paseo Central between Avenue Kanthena and Avenue 125.

ELASTIBALL.

Tuesdays at 1:00 p.m.

Thursdays at 4:00 p.m. Fridays at 1:00 p.m. Want to be an astronaut? Start with learning to build your own space ship to take you on various space missions. Ages 8 years and up. $25 mxn per participant. Sayab Planetarium Avenue Paseo Central between Avenue Kanthena and Avenue 125.

SPACE SHIP.

FASCINATING GEOMETRY. Tuesdays at 4:00 p.m. Wednesdays at 1:00 p.m. Thursdays at 5:30 p.m.

Review a bit of geometry make your own colored figures such as cubes and stars. Available different levels of difficulty to match your abilities. Ages 8 years and up. $15mxn per participant. Sayab Planetarium Avenue Paseo Central between Avenue Kanthena and Avenue 125.

THE BRAIN. Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. Fridays at 4:00 p.m.

Sundays at 5:30 p.m. Make your own brain hat and learn the parts that make it up and their function. Take the hot home to to help you remember all that you

kittens. It’s also a great de-stressor! For more information, contact info@ cocosanimalwelfare.com.

SOS el Arca DOG WASH, every Saturday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Have fun giving the dogs baths while allowing them to socialize. Check Facebook/SOS el Arca.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR COCOS NEW CLINIC! Coco’s

is looking for volunteers who can commit to one day per week to help at our spay & neuter clinic. If you would like to be part of our amazing team of volunteers please contact Coco´s at 9841200572 or info@ cocosanimalwelfare.org

MARTIAL ARTS le a r n e d . A ge s 8 ye a r s a n d u p. $25mxn per participant. Sayab Planetarium Avenue Paseo Central between Avenue Kanthena and Avenue 125.

Fridays at 3:00 p.m. Sunday (July 24) at 12:00 p.m. Sayab Planetarium Avenue Paseo Central between Avenue Kanthena and Avenue 125.

VIRTUAL REALITY.

FOSSILS. Sundays at 4:00 p.m.

Travel back in time and discover plants and animals that have survived until now. Learn about their story through centuries. Get your own fossil and paint is how y o u l i ke . A ge s 6 y e a r s a n d u p. $25mxn per participant. Sayab Planetarium Avenue Paseo Central between Avenue Kanthena and Avenue 125.

Wednesdays at 4:00 p.m. Saturdays at 2:00 p.m. Sundays at 1:00 p.m. You are invited to know about kaleidescopes and make your own to take home. Wonder at the diverse geometric forms that you decorate to your liking that transport you to your imagination. Ages 8 years and up. $35mxn per participant. Sayab Planetarium Avenue Paseo Central between Avenue Kanthena and Avenue 125 .

THROUGH MIRRORS.

MICROSCOPIC BUGS . Sundays at 2:00 p.m. Learn about the smallest micro-organisms that our

eyes can see and some that we ca n n o t w i t h o u t a m i c rosco p e.

Also learn about curious facts about fleas and bugs that have been taken to space. Ages 6 and up. $15mxn per participant. Sayab Planetarium Avenue Paseo Central between Avenue Kanthena and Avenue 125 .

BASIC CHESS. Saturdays and Sundays at 3:30 p.m. Learn the basics of the chess pieces, the rules o f t h e ga m e , h i s to r y a n d le ge n d s .

You are invited to practice this s p o r t- s c i e n ce . A ge s 7 a n d u p. $15mxn per participant. Sayab Planetarium Avenue Paseo Central between Avenue Kanthena and Avenue 125.

Saturdays at 1:00 p.m.

Sayab Planetarium Avenue Paseo Central between Avenue Kanthena and Avenue 125 .

SPIDERS.

Weekends 12:00 p.m. Sayab Planetarium Avenue Paseo Central between Avenue Kanthena and Avenue 125 .

MATINEE for kids.

JIU JITSU/MUAY THAI/JUDO Jiu Jitsu: Mondays thru Thursdays

8 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 9 a.m.

Muay Thai: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 7 p.m.

Judo: Tuesdays and Thursdays 6 p.m. and Wednesdays 10 a.m.Free trial classes for adults at Gracia Barra Jiu Jitsu. Avenue Constituyentes and Avenue 95, Ejido, in the Evolve Complex.

TULUM Fridays at 7:30 p.m.

Chak Acoustic Session. Ahau Tulum Km 7.8 Carretera Tulum Boca Paila.

LIVE MUSIC

Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. Chak Acoustic Session. Encantada Tulum Km 8.7 Carretera Tulum Boca Paila.

LIVE MUSIC

YOGA Monday thru Saturday at 8:00 p.m. Sanara Tulum. Km 8.2 Carretera Tulum Boca Paila.

Saturdays from 5:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Plaza del Municipio.

ORGANIC MARKET

September 21 - October 04 2016

ENTERTAINMENT

17

The Xuuxnë Xuuxnë Music Project of our future. I recently came across an amazing project by a great team of young musicians, and Marcz Daniel told me all about it

Xuuxnë Xuuxnë is working with local schools to help guide new musicians / Photos: Xuuxnë Xuuxnë

BY CRYSTALMITCHELL

X

uuxnë Xuuxnë is headed up by three musicians who are now working with local public schools to help guide new musicians.

Daniel, how was the project Xuuxnë Xuuxnë born?

Jaquelin, Hardy and myself wanted to bring music to children, teens and adults. We know the benefits that music brings to health, learning and

development of people, and therefore to society. Xuuxnë (pronounced Shuxna’) is a word in Aayuuk (Mixe) of the Sierra de Oaxaca and means music in the context of health.

Can you please explain how Xuuxnë Xuuxnë works in schools?

We engage in the creation of musical groups, street musicians, choirs and support various activities to promote music as a language, as well as in promoting family unity and development of learners.

Who are the teachers of the program and what’s their experience?

We are three teachers. Hardy is the violin teacher, Jaquelin is the singing teacher and I, Marcz Daniel teach guitar.

I started at the age of nine years old with my mother as my first music teacher. At 21, I received a scholarship to Canzion Production where I studied guitar and singing. I’ve been on tour nationally and have also taught in churches.

Hardy Zapata has lived in Playa del Carmen since age seven. At 18, he started in music with the violin.

He has participated in evangelical orchestras and has performed nationally. In 2015, Hardy started as an instructor of his instrument and teaches at the Technological University.

Jaquelin Ceballos was born in the city of Campeche and raised in Playa del Carmen. She started singing at the age of eight. Six years ago she started teaching singing in particular.

She has participated in groups in the region. Also as substitute teacher primary level.

What are the goals of this program?

There are four general objectives: The cognitive development of children, adolescents and/or youngsters.

Fighting the distance that may exist in the family.

Identification of educational, psychological or psycho-educational problems that are affecting children, adolescents and/or youngsters.

Promote fundamental values such

as respect, tolerance, solidarity, equality and love.

What more do you want our audience to know of your program?

I want to take this opportunity to invite them to register for classes. It’s never too late or too early to reach a dream!

For more information visit them online at Facebook/Xuuxnë Xuuxnë or call 999-397-5352.

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TPT FOODIES

September 21 - October 04 2016

Take a Slice and Make a Margarita Citrus season is upon us here in Mexico. Catherine explores a variety of citrus fruits available to us in Mexico and how to stock up now but use them later

BY CATHERINE PAWELEK

C

itrus season has arrived in Mexico, and it is the perfect time to stock up on limes, oranges and lemons. Although citrus is cultivated and grown commercially in over 100 countries, it is an economic mainstay for Mexico.

Due to its high yield, it exceeds that of any apple, peach or pear tree.

3,000 lemons the annual yield of one lemon tree alone Because limes have some of the most acidic juices of all citrus, they were used by sailors for centuries to prevent scurvy. Other than alcohol they are a main ingredient in margaritas, caipirinhas and mojitos, giving them a well–deserved acidic punch.

Don’t confuse limes with key limes, which are actually yellow in color and more tart in flavor. They are grown in South Florida and Mexico and are used in that ubiquitous key lime pie.

When the price of limes is low, buy as much as you can and simply juice

Lime and lemon juice can be frozen for future use / Photo: pexels.com

Carlota de limon / Photo: kiwilimon.com

Carlota de Limón

By Catherine Pawelek Have you been invited to a friend’s house and you don’t want to bring the omnipresent and boring trifle, tiramisu or pudding? Then make one of the world’s simplest but most impressive desserts and a Mexican favorite: Carlota de Limon. This refreshing and make ahead dish will wow even the most disbelieving person. With only five ingredients, it doesn’t get any easier than this. Make a second carlota and freeze for a one of a kind frozen treat.

Ingredients: 1 can condensed milk 1 can evaporated milk 1 cup fresh lime juice 2 rolls of Maria cookies (about 350 grams) 1 cup strawberries, sliced

Pour the condensed and the evaporated milk into the blender on a low setting and very slowly, add the lime juice. The mixture will eventually thicken. You have to have patience.

Don’t pour too fast or it will never congeal.

Check its consistency by dipping a spoon into the mixture, which should stick to its back.

Line the bottom of an 8” x 8” glass dish with a layer of cookies, pour some of the lime mixture over the cookies. Repeat this process till all the cookies and mixture have been used. Place the cake into the refrigerator overnight. Just before serving top with sliced strawberries or other fruit.

Slice and enjoy this simple tart/sweet concoction.

Tips You can also use a springform pan, and once the cake is set, remove the rim for a cool layered look.

Use blueberries, raspberries, bananas or blackberries instead of strawberries For a unique twist use a combination of key limes or grapefruits and oranges

and freeze in small baggies or plastic containers for future use.

Oranges. Veracruz is the most important producer of oranges in Mexico with almost 50% of overall production, followed by Tamaulipas and San Luis Potosí. The vast majority are of the Valencia variety. Although not as acidic as limes, use freshly squeezed orange juice on any meat to tenderize and give flavor.

Lemons have a low tolerance for cold weather, which restricts the area for cultivation. Just one lemon tree can have an annual yield of 3,000 lemons, a great income producer. Although Mexico is a major producer of lemons, the majority are used for export, juices and oils. Try to find an actual lemon here in Quintana Roo, and it might seem like a fruitless task.

When you do, stock up and like with limes, juice and freeze them.

Grapefruits are grown in Michoacan and Veracruz producing both white and red varieties as well as deliciously sour sweet pomelos, with only 50% fruit juice and 50% pith, but a great substitute for most other citrus fruits.

Since citrus is an excellent source of vitamin C, as well as essential for healing wounds and producing collagen, it is essential to incorporate into our daily diet, giving us an excuse to have another margarita.

September 21 - October 04 2016

19

September 21 - October A RT & 2016 C U LT U R04 E 20

By Edgar Mena

Ek Chuah: The God Of War

A

lthough the Maya tended to solve their problems through of the ThePhotos: the Maya upper suffered Wikimedia class/ and atCommons those the hands in power This god, many others science andaskindness before taking a weapon into their in the Maya- mythology, hands, they still had a deity who rep resented aggressive and evil side. has atheir counterpart.

Today, Many other obscure gods, such as Ah it is time for Puch, andXibalba represent inhabited - the warlike ed evil somehow, but this evil nature side of the gods. wasn’t in their intentions and actions.

This wasn’t the case of the god in question, though. -We have to remem ber that Maya gods, like the Greek, had p u t i nown t h e personalities, M ay a m y t h o tastes l o g y f oand r a their rpassions, e a s o n , a sand i t s when deform i e s r e sto e mthis ble it i tcomes t h e mthat o n s tpassion r o s i t y -tish aevil t o uitself. r o w nHed is e deity, f e c t s ac bad a n bgod ecom . considered inenature.

It isChuah interesting, however, that he Ek translates as the black is represented scorpion holding a bag on his means Chuah black and (Ek back, similar Mayan to the ones that mer scorpion Quiche inis -the lan chants used their goods. with This guage), and to he carry was represented hasbody been understood ininmany his painted entirely black stud with as nose a reference him He being also a aiesbig and redto lips. is shown good god leaning ontoa merchants. cane, which Inhethis alsosense, used many authors that Ek Chuah as a spear for consider war. In some cases, he of light and represented duality, a godthe was depicted holding ax with dark, and Chaac even the god ofthunder. commerce. which produced But popular belief Thithe s d eity i s here to re premains, re se n t t hand e itn eisgative supported of cre his part by of the -t h eexistence e nergy of counterpart, Ek. itHe of a t i on. When Xaman you ab - use , t hise god sco rpi Monument in Merida totthe castedea war,dly peace good, and we will speak o n wi lland h urt you wi hYucatan its st inof g.

We can him c l e ain r l ythe s e enext h o wedition. this god was

The Caste War MPO NDR LEJ BAA Y C

Today you can visit places

On July 28th, the Maya - people commemorat ed another of the CasteTihosuco, War. In Playa del like year Valladolid, Carmen, municipal and Maya authorities met and Felipe Puerto, and offered a floral Carrillo arrangement at the monu ment dedicated to the three Maya villages which tell leaders the who led the armed social revolution 169 years ago story of thisofviolent in and against the injustice the upperera classes the government.

Mexican history In 1847, the Maya people of the Yucatan Peninsula found a way- to survive the govern ment which had oppressed them for hundreds in years. their power, - and had 19th another oppor of During the the Maya 18th centuries, tunitywere to put an end to- years of native suffering, hu there various fights by the people and from robbery. of Mexicomiliation, for liberation Spanish rule.

Jacinto Pat, ofCecilio -Chi, and Manuelthey An At the time the Spanish invasion, received of oppression theMaya upper class tonio Ay years each took charge ofbythe people and those who power, including abuse, who gained were isolated in the Quintana land theft, elevated and anplace impossible Roo jungle, a totally taxes inaccessible where debtMaya to pay.

Theyinwere -turned slavesofwork the lived peace.

Theinto destiny the on the henequén ha -sad. plantations andgovern Maya ing in this warsugar was As for the ciendas, additionlasted to being sold aasfew slaves to ment, theinstruggle for only years, otherlater. countries. only to be forgotten But this was not the In for thethe middle thefought 19th this century, thefor case Maya,of who struggle Maya were used without as soldiers in the wars be - any results.

50 years tween andplaces Yucatan, where they TodayCampeche you can visit like Valladolid, learned organization howvillages to use Tihosuco,military and Felipe Carrillo and Puerto, firearms. fought side era or another which tellThey the story of on -thisone violent in Mexi APhoto:Flickr/Jorge modern / Godoy ofwhich Ek Maliqueo Chuah for promises ofwhich taxdepiction relief were never can history and the Maya, Mexicans, and fulfilled.no Tired of nation this situation with arms other should and forget.

September 21 - October 04 2016

ENTERPRISE

21

Mi Patio, Your Patio!

Catherine spoke with Lars Tange from Mi Patio to find out what inspired him to open an outdoor furniture store after a move of over 5,000 miles!

BY CATHERINE PAWELEK

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Mi Patio is located in Playa del Carmen on the southbound side of the federal highway just after Home Depot and Ford

e had the unique opportunity to meet with Danish-born Lars Tange who recently opened the Mi Patio, an outdoor furniture store in Playa. Find out what inspired them to make an almost 5,300-mile move to the Riviera Maya.

Lars, had you ever been to Playa del Carmen before starting this venture?

We started coming to Playa 16 years ago and last year we decided to open a business here.

How did the idea for the store germinate?

We were looking for outdoor furniture in Playa, but we had to run to many different stores. Each of them had only a small selection of outdoor furniture. So we decided to make a store with only outdoor furniture.

Had you always worked in the furniture industry?

We had a supermarket in Denmark for 24 years. So we were in retail, but not furniture.

Phone: 984 859 0874 email: mipatioplaya@gmail.com.

see in the store and we have over 100 models to choose from. You can try it, sit in it and get the product right now. You can transport your furniture yourself saving money, or we can call a local mover for you.

Closet caption / Photo:Agency

Any particular reason you chose Playa del Carmen and who are your customers?

Playa del Carmen is a rapidly growing city. We spend most of our time in Playa and Puerto Aventuras and

mostly deal with retail customers, but we also sell to hotels, bars, restaurants and condos.

What type of furnishings are you specializing in and are

they imported?

Teak, aluminum, composite and polyrattan (wicker). Sofas, chairs, sun loungers, various tables, umbrellas and cushions. We have no catalog to shop from. What we have is what you

Were there any challenges you faced starting a business and how did you overcome them?

Yes, there were some challenges.

Mostly with permits and the time it can take to complete the process. We used Mexlaw and import agents to help us. Getting local help is important.

22

HEALTH

September 21 - October 04 2016

Six Tips To Decluttering Your Home Tired of the chaos? Have one too many ¨junk¨ drawers? Check out Saraʼs suggestions on how to organize and free yourself of clutter.

BY SARAJONES

D

oes the idea of living a minimalist life with less clutter and meaningless possessions appeal to you? De-cluttering and organizing your environment can lower stress, improve your productivity and increase your energy.

Egg whites are excellent for oily and acne prone skin as they help to tighten the pores / www.healthhub.com.my

Here are a few ways to make a start and persevere on what can seem like a daunting task: Fill one bag per week. Gradually collect items together that you no longer need or use and donate, recycle or throw them out.

Happiness or usefulness. If you are unsure whether to keep an item, pick it up and decide if it either serves a useful purpose or provides pleasure and happiness. If it does neither, it is time to let it go.

Turn your hangers. This is a great idea for the start of a new year or after moving house. Turn all your hangers to face backwards.

As you wear each item of clothing and rehang it, turn the hanger to face forwards. At the end of the

year (or earlier if you feel ready), discard all the items you have not worn. The exception here may be winter clothes you only wear when traveling to a colder climate.

Check your wardrobes. I am sure that almost everyone has a box (or boxes) of items that have been carried from house to house and stored year after year. Do you really need those items? Chances are that you probably do not.

Empty a drawer. Do it one at a time. Take it out and empty the contents. Go through the items one by one, aiming to the cut contents by half or one third.

Visualize. Picture each room or space as you would like to see it eventually. Each time you start de-cluttering hold that image in your mind as you work towards the minimalist, stylish, organized space you desire.

Sara Jones: Spa, Wellness & Lifestyle Expert, Spa Consultant and Founder of Spa & Wellness Mexico magazine www.spawellnessmexico.com

Spa at Home: Face Masks

BY SARAJONES A great facemask can work wonders and leave you feeling like a million dollars (or at least a little more beautiful and refreshed than before!).

There are many great facemasks to choose from, but if you want to cut out nasty pollutants and preservatives and save a few pesos, try making one at home. The kitchen cabinet can be a great place to look for great ingredients for a mask to suit your skin concerns.

Intense Hydration: Avocado, Coconut Oil & Honey. Mash half a ripe avocado into a smooth paste and combine it with one teaspoon of virgin coconut oil and one teaspoon of honey. Apply the mixture over the face and décolleté and leave for 10 to 15 minutes. Rinse off and you’ll be left with smooth, hydrated and nourished skin.

Pore Cleansing & Tightening: Egg White, Lemon & Honey. Egg whites are excellent for oily and acne prone skin as they help to tighten the pores and fight acne, causing bacteria. Whisk an egg white and mix in the juice of half a lemon

and a teaspoon of honey. Apply to the face and leave for about 15 minutes. Wash the mask off with warm water and enjoy a lifted and tighter skin.

Antioxidant & Brightening: Blueberry, Cacao & Oatmeal. Mash a handful of blueberries with a fork and combine with a teaspoon of good quality cocoa powder and a ¼ cup of ground oatmeal.

Add a little water if needed. This brightening mask will neutralize free radicals and revitalize the skin after 5-10 minutes.

Acne and/or hyperpigmentation: Strawberry & Plain Yogurt. Mash 3-4 strawberries and combine with a few teaspoons of plain, unsweetened yogurt and apply to the face. The salicylic acid in the strawberries will help you to prevent acne while the yogurt will soothe and brighten the skin, naturally lightening dark spots over time.

Leave on for 15-20 minutes to get the maximum benefit.

Sara Jones: Spa, Wellness & Lifestyle Expert and Founder of Spa & Wellness Mexico magazine www. spawellnessmexico.com Egg whites are excellent for oily and acne prone skin as they help to tighten the pores / www.healthhub.com.my

September 21 - October 04 2016

B E AC H B OA R D

23

CLASSIFIEDS BEACH BOARD Want to sell something? Buy something? Find something? Why not take out an ad in our Beach Bulletin Board? For as little as 20 pesos per word (10 word minimum). Contact us at info@me ridianmedia. mx.

SPANISH CLASSES. Private, semi-private, small groups. Quality teaching, low prices.

9841149090 ( w h a t s a p p /c e l l ) agoralanguagecenter@gmail.com

Cathy Cairelli, from Help Tulum Dogs, saying goodbye to a puppy she rescued / Photo: Cathy Cairelli

Dogs in a Flight For Their Life Find out how you can escort a dog or puppy to their new home in Canada or the U.S. - it´s easy!

BY NASH

T

he local rescue groups need your help. If you are flying out of Cancun, consider being a flight escort for one of the many rescue dogs waiting to go to their new homes in Canada and the U.S. Here in the Riviera Maya, there are many dogs in shelters and others on the streets living a life of abuse and neglect. Luckily, there are many rescue groups and individuals dedicated to getting these dogs into good homes which sometimes means sending them to Canada or the U.S. One of the most important tasks for these rescues is getting flight escorts. Playa Pet Transport, a nonprofit organization, is dedicated to coordinating the escorts for many rescue groups and volunteers. Help Tulum Dogs is another organization working hard to get their rescues into new adoptive homes.

This year they are overwhelmed with puppies born in the jungle needing foster and

adoptive homes.

The organizations will coordinate the transportation, veterinary documentation and fees paid by the rescue groups. You are only responsible for taking the dog through customs. Once you arrive in Canada or the U.S., you will find the crated dog in the oversized baggage area, unless you take a pup as carry on. Present the dog and paperwork to customs, and after the inspection, you will be on your way. The rescue representative or new family will be waiting outside and will take the dog from there. If you are a frequent visitor or just on vacation here in Playa, please consider escorting a rescue dog so that they can have a new lease on life. All rescue organizations here are in need of escorts.

Contact Heather of Playa Pet Transport or Help Tulum Dogs for more information.

Email playapettransports@gmail.com or check out Facebook/Playa Pet Transports or Facebook/Help Tulum Dogs.

EMERGENCY 060

HARBOR MASTER 887 2695

POLICE 872 0599

HOSPITAL GENERAL 206 1690 / 91 / 92

TOURISTIC SECURITY 1800 987 8224

CLINIC AMBULANCE 873 0885

FIRE DEPARTMENT 879 3669 / 70

HYPERBARIC CHAMBER 873 1365

CIVIL PROTECTION 877 3053 / 54

TRANSIT 877 3340

RED CROSS 873 1233

SOS MARINA 767 627 462

Help Tulum Dogs Help Tulum Dogs is a small volunteer rescue organization based in Tulum. It is an offshoot of the US-based charity Lost Dog Foundation. Tulum has a huge dog overpopulation, which is even more problematic due to the lack of education and financial means of the community. Volunteers help provide food, medical attention, and improve living condi-

tions for dogs in need by providing houses and educating owners about proper care. Help Tulum Dogs/ Lost Dog Foundation is focused on sterilization, and it sponsors free clinics in Tulum twice a year. It also provides free or low-cost vaccines for dogs as often as possible. Help Tulum Dogs does not have a physical shelter. The group rescues and adopts out many

dogs to good homes in the US and Canada. They are entirely funded by donations.

If you can help with fostering puppies or flight escort contact: helpmexicandogs@hotmail.com WWW.LOSTDOGFOUNDATION.ORG Facebook Lost Dog Foundation and Help Tulum Dogs