La Ventana Classic

TheDecember/January 2015 CitizenYour Community Magazine

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The La Ventana Ten Things To Do Classic is Back When You Come to La Paz and Better Than Ever page 20 page 13 www.bajacitizen.com La Paz Map The Baja Citizen pages 16-17 Malecón-Álvaro Obregón #50 Phone 612 122 9828 Cell 612 157 8000

Vista Coral 282 Casa Sally MLS #15-9 MLS # 15-1963 $ 349,000 US $149,000 US This spectacular 2 bed, 2 bath condo. Home in El Centenario with 3 Located right on the water. bed and a semi nished guest cottage. Great deal.

Colinas del Sol #202 Colinas del Sol Penthouse MLS #14-457 MLS # 15-869 $129,000 US $238,000 US Fully furnished condo with all 5th oor penthouse. 2 bed and appliances. Gated and guarded 2.5 bath. Fully furnished. Gated community. and guarded.

Villa La Posada V 106, V108 and T 301 CostaBaja Villa #8 MLS #13-2069 MLS # 13-1004 155,000 US $699,000 US Condos in La Paz, steps from strolling 3116 total sq. ft. condo with 2 on a sandy beach. Take your choice bed, 2 bath. Private, exclusive of condo. community.

CostaBaja Pueblo Marinero 205 Casa Centenario MLS# 14-1609 MLS # 15-1288 $399,000 US $219, 000 US Spectacular condo has 2 bed and 2 Home with 2 bed, 3 bath, a pool, bath. Lowest priced condo available. a theater room and library.

Casa EL Centenario Beachfront Home MLS # 15-1229 MLS # 14-1637 $74,900 US $ 495,000.00 US Brand new home in El Beach property with 4 bedrooms Centenario. Large backyard. plus large bodega. Priced really well.

Altus Palmira Casa Esterito MLS #15-2095 MLS # 15-1970 $142,000 US $103,000 US Ground level, 2 bed and 2 bath 2 blocks from the malecón, condo. Walk out to terrace, pool. spacious 3 bed, 2 bath home..

Condominios Allende Club Marlin MLS #15-2196 MLS# 14-1601 Only $129,000 US $599,000 US Amazing condo for sale. 2 bed, Perfect investment. Terms available. 1 bath. One block from the El Centenario beachfront property. malecon of La Paz.

Casa Encinas Commercial Building MLS #12-1030 MLS # 15-1844 $ 189,000.00 US $332,750 US 3 bed, 2.5 bath home close to Great location. Building can go shopping and schools. up to 3 oors.

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DENTAL LD Hi-Tech Dr. Leonel Dorantes Guzman Melchor Ocampo 460-H between Álvaro Obregón and Mutualismo. Downtown La Paz, BCS www.dentistacerec.com.mx [email protected] APPOINTMENTS: 612-1295657 www.dentalldcerec.com Index The CitizenYour Community Magazine 3 Editor’s Letter 4 Spanish Corner Editor Gari-Ellen Donohoe 5 The True Spirit of Christmas Shines Through [email protected] 6 Angels Needed! 612 159 1388 7 Christmas Tianguis Have Taken Over Graphic Design Downtown La Paz Fernando Sánchez Bernal 8 Christmas in La Paz, 1966 art 10 Ramblings: The Fun of Using Peseros in La Paz publishing photo 11 The Extended Holiday Season in Mexico design 13 The La Ventana Classic is Back and consulting Better Than Ever [email protected] / 612 14 00 542 15 Have You Paid Aguinaldo to Your Employees? The Baja Citizen community magazine 16 La Paz Map is a monthly, free circulation magazine 18 Smiley Citizens that is distributed in La Paz and the communities of El Centenario, Todos 20 Ten Things To Do When You Come To La Paz Santos, El Pescadero, El Sargento/La 22 The Work of International Community Foundation Ventana and Los Barriles. 24 The Pelican Theathe’s Production of The views of contributors to The Baja Love, Loss And What I Wore Citizen community magazine do not 26 Have You Heard About Club Cruceros de La Paz? necessarily reflect those of the publishers. 27 Artists of Todos Santos 7th Annual Open Studios Publisher: Hally J. Productions S. de R.L. 28 Municipality of La Paz Property Tax Discounts on Now La Paz, BCS, Mexico 23090 29 EPN Meets With Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau Our Cover Photographer 30 A Small, Simple Water Filter That Saves Lives in Rural Mexico 31 Dental Clinic in the FANLAP Dining Room

IMPORTANT LA PAZ PHONE NUMBERS Kat Bennett

EMERGENCY Port Captain Kat Bennett has been a full-time resi- (Police or Fire Department) 122 0243 dent of La Paz since 2005. In addition 066 to working in Allende Books, Kat has Highway Patrol Federal Immigration appeared in local theater productions, Federal Police O ce (INM) has worked on several translation 122 0369 125 3493 122 0429 projects, and is a frequent contribu- IMSS Hospital tor to the Baja Citizen. She is an avid 122 7377 State Tourism O ce amateur photographer. Fidepaz Hospital 124 0100 124 0400 120 0199

The Baja Citizen 2 December 2015 Editor’s Letter

It is December in La Paz and there is a and social celebration that takes place noticeable uptick in traffic. Stores are for nine nights, from December 16th crammed with extra product for the hol- to the 24th, the holiday known as Las iday season and shoppers seem to be out Posadas commemorates Joseph and in full-force this year. Several govern- Mary’s journey to Bethlehem and their ment workers were already paid some search for shelter prior to the birth of of their aguinaldo, or Chirstmas bonus, Christ. for the Buen Fin weekend and things Las Posadas is a reenactment of haven’t slowed down in the city since. this difficult journey. It is an elaborate One benefit workers receive here preparation for La Navidad (Christmas) is the annual payment of extra money in Mexico and some Central American at Christmas time. Mexico adopted the countries. law of aguinaldo, the formal payment Some folks celebrate the traditional of the Christmas bonus, several decades posada with their family and guests as ago. The payment of aguinaldo is man- part of their Christmas party. A tradition- datory, must be paid by December 20th al posada includes a procession led by every year, and must be paid in cash. children, followed by adults and musi- The Buen Fin weekend was held cians. They travel to a different house in the weekend of November 13th-16th in the neighborhood and pretend they are Mexico. The Mexican federal govern- looking for lodging. When they enter ment, along with the private sector, had the home where the party is to be held, come up with the initiative called Buen they begin the evening with prayer; soon Fin (Good Weekend), similar to Black after, the celebration begins, full of mu- Friday in the US. sic, fireworks, food, candy, and treats for Both the private and public sector all. Children and adults alike anticipate wanted to kick off the shopping season this joyous religious occasion. even earlier this year and hoped Buen Other posadas you might attend are Fin would boost domestic consump- non-traditional and are really just Christ- tion. The government decided that they mas parties but the word posada is used would pay their workers part of their anyways in the invitation. If you have Christmas bonus early to allow them to the opportunity to take part in a tradi- take advantage of steep discounts over tional posada, don’t hesitate. It is a great the Buen Fin weekend. Christmas bo- way to learn and appreciate the culture nuses are generally paid in the first pay here in Mexico. period of December (between the 12th To all my faithful readers, hardwork- to the 20th) ing writers and incredible advertisers, But because of the early payment of thank-you so much for helping me bring bonuses, restaurants, malls and grocery life to the Baja Citizen magazine. stores have noticed Christmas shopping 2015 has once again been a life and parties taking place even earlier this changing time for me and believe it or year than most and are enjoying several not, I am still having fun! Have a safe weeks of strong sales instead of just two and fun holiday season. I wish you all weeks in December. For many business health, love and happiness for 2016. owners, this is their strongest month in sales. See you after the New Year! And December isn’t just a time for shopping. It is also posada time. Have you been invited to one? Yours, Las posadas means “the inns” or “the shelters” in Spanish. A religious Gari-Ellen

December 2015 3 The Baja Citizen Spanish Corner THE HOLIDAYS/ LAS FIESTAS

The holiday season is upon us. Here are a few greetings and important festive words that will help you get through the season a little easier.

¡FÉLIZ NAVIDAD! MERRY CHRISTMAS! ¡UN PRÓSPERO AÑO NUEVO! A PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR! ¡FÉLIZ AÑO NUEVO! HAPPY NEW YEAR! ¡FÉLIZ JANUCÁ! HAPPY HANUKKAH! May the holidays with family and friends ¡FELICES FIESTAS! HAPPY HOLIDAYS! bring peace and joy now and throughout ¡FELICES FIESTAS DE LAS LUCES! the New Year. HAPPY FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS ! THE STAFF OF SE HABLA…LA PAZ LA CELEBRACIÓN DE JANUCÁ HANUKKAH SPANISH LANGUAGE SCHOOL LAS POSADAS TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS (DEC. 16-24) EL ÁRBOL DE NAVIDAD CHRISTMAS TREE LA NOCHEBUENA CHRISTMAS EVE, POINTISETTA LOS VILLANCICOS CHRISTMAS CAROLS EL NACIMIENTO NATIVITY SCENE, THE CRESHE LOS ADORNOS NAVIDEÑOS DECORATIONS LAS BOTAS NAVIDEÑAS CHRISTMAS STOCKINGS LA CENA NAVIDEÑA CHRISTMAS DINNER EL PONCHE CHRISTMAS PUNCH LOS BUÑUELOS SUGARY FRIED BREAD LOS REGALOS, LOS OBSEQUIOS GIFTS EL DÍA DE LOS SANTOS INOCENTES MEXICAN FOOL´S DAY, 28TH OF DECEMBER EL AÑO NUEVO NEW YEARS’S EVE LOS PROPÓSITOS DE AÑO NUEVO NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS EL AGUINALDO EMPLOYEE CHRISTMAS BONUS

The Baja Citizen 4 December 2015 The True Spirit of Christmas Shines Through

By Irene Phillips

Here in Mexico, the December festival season begins with the celebration of the Patrona de Mexico, Our Lady of Guadalupe on December 12 and continues through Christmas and on to All King’s Day on January 6. Mexican fiestas are steeped in tradition with food, music and family being the central theme. On the Baja, the poinsettias and the live, pine Christmas trees are popping up in stores everywhere. Toys and spe- Santa and a happy little girl. Adrian and Victor cialty items load the aisles of the supermarkets. All of this is in preparation of the coming fiestas. There is something for • Go to our website where you can easily and secure- everyone...well at least those who can afford those luxuries. ly donate using a credit card through PayPal. It is www.ami- In our little village of El Centenario, many of us spend gosdenavidad.causevox.com. Or if you are here in La Paz for Christmas here without our immediate families. A group of the holidays, let us know and we can pick up your donation us were looking for a way to spend Christmas together with in person. our neighbors and to help some of the local families who • Help spread the word about our event by going to could use a little extra something. our Amigosdenavidad Facebook page, Like and Share it. What better way to do that than to have a fiesta. Check there often for updates on our progress and pictures of Two years ago, we started Amigos de Navidad. With the the event. generous donations of our friends, family and neighbors, we • Or you could volunteer to help us with setup, shop- served Christmas dinner to over 240 people the first year. ping, cooking and serving for the event. Volunteer positions And more than 250 in the second year. That represents more that are needed are posted on our Facebook page. than 40 families and most of those people were children. In addition to the meal, parents went home with a gift for each of their children to open on All King’s Day and a food Whatever your Christmas tradition may hamper with everyday staples they could use to feed their be, giving to those less fortunate may fill family. your heart with the true spirit of Christ- This is our third year and even though some of the families we helped in the past are now doing better financially, mas. there are always people who need a little help. We look to Wishing you and your family a healthy and happy Christ- invite people with the greatest need so our search expands mas and a prosperous New Year. farther into the rural areas of the village where the need is greater. This year, on the 23rd of December, we are hoping to serve three dinner seatings followed by piñatas for the kids. The parents will get a bag stuffed with toys for their kids. And our goal is to double the size of the food hamper we sup- ply, so the full feeling of Christmas lasts into the New Year. We want to thank Victor Martinez de Escobar who donated the use of his restaurant, Mesquite Verde in El Centenario, for our event. Also a big thank-you to Melanie Torres, Direc- tor of DECIDE AC, for her help with community liaison and inviting the families. If you would like to support this local cause, here are a few ways you can help. Some of the toys donated for Christmas 2013 by Amigos de Navidad.

December 2015 5 The Baja Citizen Angels Needed!

TBC

Christmas is just around the corner! Care for Kids La Paz is having their annual food drive for those families in Vista Hermosa with few financial resources. This year our goal is to deliver food hampers to 100 families on December 19. The community is large and even one hundred bags of food are just a drop in the bucket.

Numerous families have no access to piped-in water, Items or money can be dropped off at: electricity, basic sanitation Allende Books (125-9114) on Indepen- or sewage. Many live in dencia 518 between Prieto and Serdan one-room homes made of from 10 am - 6 pm, Monday-Saturday tin, cardboard or pieces of (browse through their great book selec- wood. Some have dirt floors tion while you’re there) on which they sleep. Others Casa Buena (122-5538) Belizario cook outdoors on an open Dominguez 3065 between Sonora and fire. Sinaloa La Paz Mini Storage (124-6504) Basic non-perishable items (oil, beans, rice, canned tuna, boxed milk, The people of Vista Hermosa were sugar, lentils, juice, mayonnaise, born without the same choices and cookies, cereal, pasta, coffee, small cans privileges that many of us enjoy. It’s a of vegetables, chicken bouillon cubes, hard life they live but they are filled with toilet paper, toothpaste, toothbrushes, hope, dignity and gratitude. and sanitary pads) are examples of items for the hampers. As many families don’t have the financial resources to give their Let’s make Christmas children Christmas gifts, a small present special for at least 100 for a child from 1 – 10 years is very families! welcome! Or help us buy an entire food hamper for 250 pesos.

For more information, please contact www.careforkidslapaz.com Barbara Spencer: [email protected] Tel: 125-3980 Facebook: Care for Kids La Paz

The Baja Citizen 6 December 2015 We carry a wide variety of baking items and decorating supplies, providing you with everything you need for the Christmas Tianguis Have Taken elaboration of your next dessert. Cookie Making Over Downtown La Paz Cupcake Decorating Candy Making TBC Brownie Seasonal Bakeware & Supplies Drive with precaution if you are heading Families are together walking Decorating Tools downtown in the next few weeks. The around, people are happy and the atmo- Fondant Ingredients traditional La Paz Christmas Tianguis sphere is filled with joy, as is should be have taken over several blocks of his- over the holidays. toric downtown La Paz, making driving The problem for many concerned and parking a little more hazardous. citizens is the traffic along Madero/ The Tianguis, or open-air street Revolucion. The entire vicinity of Jardín stands, can be found on the streets of Velasco almost comes to a halt. Add to Madero and Independencia. Along sev- the mix run down cars filled with 10 eral blocks of streets, vendors are lined passengers with no brake lights and no up selling toys, clothes, shoes, back- turning signals and we have a problem. packs, games, Christmas decorations, Traffic police are very present, especial- gift wrapping and plenty more for gift ly this year, and are trying to mitigate giving and preparing. the situation for pedestrians. Ask us about our The Christmas Tianguis have Parking, so precious on a good day baking and decorating become one-stop shopping. You can in downtown La Paz, is almost non- classes find almost anything, all within a existent. People are usually in a hurry few blocks. Park the car and just and when they can’t find a place to park, walk. Some vendors sell hot and cold frustration sets in and their driving skills beverages and traditional Christmas deteriorate. Beware of the frustrated treats such as buñuelos. driver! Several great stores, also perfect for The happiness and the craziness of looking for that perfect gift, can also be the La Paz Christmas Tianguis will con- found in this area, including Casa Parra tinue until Christmas Day. and Nomada.

On the corner of Allende and Ramirez, La Paz La Paz Christmas Open 8:30 am to 7:00 pm / Monday to Saturday Tianguis. 612 125 8768 / [email protected] Solution Cake

December 2015 7 The Baja Citizen Christmas in La Paz, 1966

By Ramona Katherine Ray

Christmas in La Paz is like Christmas even have a Lionel train set – brought all the way from San in July. It is usually sunny, warm and Jose with us, to set up under the tree...even if it doesn’t look there’s definitely no snow on the ground. like Christmas outside, it does inside. Everyone else has a nacimiento, nativity scene; José, The closest snow is on Sierra de La Laguna, and in 1966 only María and baby Jesús; (who doesn’t get to go to bed until the adventurous hiked there. So, no snow and no Christmas Christmas Eve) cows, burros, camels, and the three wise trees, except artificial ones. men are off somewhere on their way to La Paz, and won’t Today fresh trees are shipped down from Oregon. Mexi- make it until January the 6th. (That’s when everyone actu- can traditions are slowly blending with those from El Norte. ally receives their presents, as Christmas Eve is Jesus’ birth- Trees are replacing nacimientos, Santa is replacing the three day, not ours.) wise men, and the niño Dios. In the 1960’s a live tree was for Mexicans celebrate on the Eve of Christmas, the 24th, those who had children raised in the States, who begged until and Grandma Conchita is coming for Christmas; and since the parents made great sacrifices, and bought a tree. This was she is Mexican, we’ll celebrate her way; and that means ta- the case with us. males! I refuse to have an artificial tree. If we are going to cel- So I learn how to make tamales. ebrate and use a tree; then it must be one that has a smell. We Continues on next page

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The Baja Citizen 8 December 2015 Tamales de Puerco, estilo norteño Grandma Conchita’s Northern-Style Pork Tamales from Monterrey, Mexico

• One teenage girl Small bowl of cold water • Strong arms Now for the strong arms • Large bowl, large pot, lard, corn-husks, griddle, frying Beat and beat that lard, until your arms are so tired and pan, blender your eyes are so heavy you´re ready to fall down and die, but • 1 kg of pork your grandmother won’t let you stop until the lard floats to • 1 onion the top of the cold water – as that is what it’s for – to test to • Water to cover see if the lard has been beaten long enough – and it seems it • 3-4 chile anchos will never, ever be done. • Cut meat into chunks, cook until tender with the garlic Finally it’s done! It is fluffy, it’s so fluffy it looks like and onion, salt to taste. whipped cream. Yuk! It doesn’t taste like it. Then add pre- • Set-aside until cool, shred, reserve broth. pared tamal flour or nixtamal. Test for salt, beat until incor- • Toast chilis on griddle, do not burn. Remove seeds, porated. Test with the cold water, if it floats to the top, you’re veins. ready for hours of fun. Unless of course you have 15 children, • Blend with broth until powdered - add ½ tsp of pow- and if you do, you better triple the recipe. Or just invite a dered cumin. couple of girlfriends over, and they can help you, otherwise • Melt a little lard into the frying pan, add chili, meat, you´re gonna be up all night making tamales. broth. Soak corn husks in water, shake water off, and then spread • Cook 5 minutes, medium flame until reduced a bit. Add around a tablespoon of the dough onto husk. Smooth out- salt. Set aside. ward, put on a little meat with plenty of sauce, fold husk as • Meanwhile make your dough: you would an ordinary tamale. • ½lb of lard-pork That is, fold one side over the other and then the little tail • Sea salt 1 tsp up. They are small, mostly meat, scant dough, about 1-1/2 • 1-2 cloves garlic inch wide. Stack them into steamer, be sure to put a penny • 5 peppercorns in the bottom, I’ll tell you later what that’s for. Around and • 1lb prepared tamale flour or fresh nixtamal- which can around they go, when it will stop nobody knows. Before you be found anywhere. start stacking, line steamer with corn husks – don’t forget the • 2 ½ cups chicken broth penny. Oops –centavo. Then cover tamales with a layer of corn husks and steam aprox. 2 hours.

P.S The penny is there to prevent you from burning them, if you no longer hear it jumping around, add water. Test to ¡Feliz Navidad! see if done. Serve Christmas Eve with champurrado. Happy I now know how to make tamales. I no Celebration Holidays! longer whip lard by hand. In La Paz, we Menu use potatoes, olives and prunes and add it Tasty Feta El Centenario, BCS to the meat. They’re big, fat and slightly stu ed Meatballs Honey-Glazed Ham Come Celebrate the Season sweet. Grandma Conchita would have or Stu ed Turkey Mashed or Scalloped Potatoes a heart attack as they are NOT tamales! Green bean and Friday, December 25th, 2015 mushroom casserole Serving between 2pm - 8 pm She’d scoff, “Stuffed corn husks!” Roasted cabbage slaw with hazelnuts & lemon Fresh Homemade bread Reservations required Amaretto Cheesecake for dessert Call 612 151 0862 Finally to bed; it’s 3 am Ufa! Papi would never let me 200 Pesos per person stay up so late, except the big chief is here, and I am slaving away for her. Where are the maids when you need them? New Year’s Eve Dinner and Dancing Celebration! Pleas email [email protected] for details and reservations

December 2015 9 The Baja Citizen Ramblings: The Fun of Using Peseros in La Paz

By Judy Ristity

I’ve been driving in La Paz for 18 years stared. I smiled and we headed so I assumed I knew our town. I was they accepted the cookies AWAY from wrong. I offered. I learned that my car. We passed Oh, I drive to friends’ homes. And ginger cookies are wasted on the Cathedral, the I zip to Chedraui, Ley, Soriana and children under the age of eight. But Port Captain’s office, and Walmart but yesterday I discovered a the combination of ginger, sugar, butter within a block of my house but since very different La Paz. Because The Baja and flour fortified me with renewed my car was on the other end of town, Citizen wants to help people who’ve re- energy and determination. I remained seated. At 1:40 we climbed cently arrived here I offered to write an Plan B – I drove to Marina de La a cobble-stone street into the neigh- article about using peseros (those mini- Paz. Perhaps they had information borhood called Ciudad del Cielo (City buses that many of us get stuck behind about the most commonly used pesero of Heaven) where some houses were just when we’re in a hurry). No prob- routes. No luck. I ate another cookie. constructed of cardboard and tin. We lema. I parked on Marquez de León and had an aerial view of the cemetery (aka To get into the spirit, I imagined I’d Francisco Madero (near Rancho Viejo) Panteón). Finally, we turned around in arrived to La Paz – that my boat was and considered my next step. A pesero someone’s driveway. At 1:50 we ap- docked at Marina de La Paz and I needed approached. I read “Walmart – Home proached Centro and at 2:00 (exactly groceries but I was car-less, clue-less… Depot – Soriana – Miramar Ruta C-46” two hours from the time I entered the and had a limited budget. So, instead of Bingo! I paid 10 pesos and the adven- pesero) I said, “Gracias” to the driver hailing a taxi, I’d use peseros (aka col- ture began. It was exactly noon. Why and disembarked near my car. Our route ectivos). But merely pretending wasn’t did I imagine the pesero would drive di- had been shaped like a lopsided number enough – I needed to “walk-the-walk” rectly to Walmart simply because that’s 8 with Centro being the mid-section. or in this case “ride-the pesero.” where I wanted to go? Instead we head- What did I learned during my adven- Peseros cluster downtown on ed to FYMSA (a large hardware store), ture? Revolución de 1910, Aquiles Serdán, Ley on Agustin Olachea and – the pris- Peseros operate between 6 a.m. to Santos Degollado, and Melchor on. But at 12:15 we arrived at Walmart. 10:30 p.m. Cost – 10 pesos upon enter- Ocampo. I first went to Pan D’Les, I’d done it! ing. No transfers. No list of routes ex- bought ginger cookies, drove down Now I was ready for the van to turn ists. Bus stops are not always marked. Madero various blocks and parked up a and head back to Centro. Why did I Several peseros may go to your de- block from Revolución. I had my map, imagine that he’d drive directly back sired destination but the routes will be pesos, water and cookies. I was ready. downtown simply because that’s where different and may not be the most direct. I watched a parade of peseros load I wanted to go? But no! We lumbered I was lucky – I got to Walmart in fifteen and unload passengers. I noticed some down deep, unpaved arroyos, passed minutes. mini-vans had route numbers – but not the Catholic University, and at 12:35 I was the only non-Mexican riding. all. I observed a man with an official- drove by a huge Chedraui under con- I entered neighborhoods that I didn’t looking clipboard speak to a van driver. struction. We entered Villa de Guada- know existed. I saw poverty. My fel- I asked for a route schedule. “No existe.” lupe, a neighborhood where all streets low passengers were giggling school- This wasn’t going to be as easy as I had are named for saints – where houses girls, well-groomed children and adults imagined. I tried a different approach. are not much bigger than the pesero who were kind and helpful. Please dress “To go to Walmart, what number pesero and decorated with graffiti. At 12:40 modestly, don’t take photos and don’t should I take?” “Hay varios,” he re- we executed a U-turn and reversed our gawk. Be respectful. plied. I asked where I could catch one. route. At 1:25 we parked on Degollado If you have time and want to see a He pointed in all four directions. Finally between Revolucìon and Serdán….The different face of La Paz, take a pesero. I asked which color pesero would take end of the route. Or so I thought. Ride the entire route. But if you’re in me to Walmart. He mentioned a rain- Since I’d left my car on Marquez a hurry or have lots of bags, take a taxi. bow of colors. This was darned hard. de León I remained seated. Why did I sat on a crumbling concrete bench I imagine that the pesero would drive P.S. – Peseros can be hot and dusty with a mother and her three small directly back to my car simply because so drink water but be careful; two hours children and I ate a cookie. The children that’s where I wanted to go? However, is a long time without a bathroom.

The Baja Citizen 10 December 2015 The Extended Holiday Season in Mexico

TBC

Isn’t it amazing in Mexico how holidays just stretch out for weeks at a time? No wonder it is the best time of the year! December has the posadas starting on the 16th that then lead up to Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Then, on December 28th, we celebrate the Día de los Santos Inocentes. This is a day for pranks, equivalent to April Fool’s Day. Don’t be sur- prised if you see a few outlandish headlines and stories in the local newspapers today. If you read to the end of the article, reyes, a sweet bread shaped like a wreath, with candied fruit you will learn that only “an innocent dove” would believe on top, and plastic figurines that are to represent baby Jesus, that story. These pranks are called inocentadas. baked inside. People who find the figurine in their piece of rosca must throw a party on February 2, Candelaria Day, offering tamales and atole, (a hot drink thickened with corn And just after the huge celebrations flour) hot chocolate or coffee to their guests. Canderlaria for New Year’s, we have Kings’ Day Day is another traditional holiday for everyone to get together that doesn’t conclude until February 2, to celebrate at home or in places of work. Cadeleria Day! The party just never ends!

Kings’ Day in Mexico, known as the Día de Reyes, is celebrated by families holding onto the traditions of years past. On King’s Day, which has a religious background, children in Mexico receive gifts brought to them by the Three Kings, los Reyes Magos, Melcher, Gaspar and Balthazar. However, most kids in La Paz receive gifts from both Santa Claus and the Kings. The Santa Claus tradition has been imported from the United States while Kings’ Day has been passed down from generation to generation in Mexico. On Kings’ Day it is tradition for places of work, government offices and family and friends to get together to eat rosca de

December 2015 11 The Baja Citizen The Baja Citizen 12 December 2015 The La Ventana Classic Is Back and Better Than Ever The event will once again be emceed Some facts about by Kiteboard Icon Neil Hutchinson of Xrated KiteBoarding. The event includes racing classes for top competi- La Ventana, BCS tors battling it out for 5,000 US of prize La Ventana is located in the Munici- money and also sportsman classes for pality of La Paz. those who want to ride recreationally to La Ventana is only a 40-minute support the cause of raising scholarship drive from La Paz. money for local students. In the 2010 Census, La Ventana reg- All money, beyond costs of running istered a population of 255 inhabitants. the event, will go directly to the Ami- La Ventana is considered a premier gos de Alumnos group, to contribute to venue for kitesurfing and windsurf- high school scholarships and help local ing during the months of November to students in La Ventana/El Sargento con- April due to consistent strong winds. tinue their education. Although the cost to attend high school is only $300 US Activities in La Ventana include: annually per student, this cost is a road- block for some Mexican families and • Kitesurfing stops many bright and motivated young • Windsurfing TBC people from attending high school. • Boat Tours & Fishing In the past seven years, the La Ven- • Diving & Snorkeling After taking a few years off to reorga- tana Classic has raised over $90,000 US • Kayak Rentals nize, the La Ventana Classic is back in projects that took place in the five lo- • Horse Riding and bigger than ever. Local, national cal schools and health center. • Bike Tours & Rentals and international wind enthusiasts will La Ventana is just a 40-minute drive • Yoga heavily attend the five-day event. Orga- from the La Paz Airport and 2.5 hours • Hiking nized by Tim Hatler of Palapas Ventana from the Cabo Airport. Once just a small Resort and Marina Chang of The Kite- Mexican fishing village, it was discov- Playa Central hosts the Farmer’s boarder Magazine, the 8th Annual La ered by windsurfers about 15 years ago Market every Thursday morning. Ventana Classic and Kitexpo 2016 will and has become the perfect kitesurfing be held in the town of La Ventana, BCS spot thanks to its steady winds from No- La Ventana is now home to: from January 6th to the 10th. vember to March. The Classic includes a long distance • Restaurants foil, kiteboard and windsurf race, course In La Ventana, you can find activi- • Hotels racing, an 11 mile island crossing SUP ties for every outdoor enthusiast includ- • B & Bs Race, a 13.5 mile downwinder and two ing watersports, snorkeling, kayaking, • Coffee shops mile SUP race, SUP relay races, big air diving, and sport fishing. You can also • Corner stores and freestyle competitions, and a five just hang out on the beautiful, L shaped • Fish markets day expo of Kite and SUP gear. sandy beach. You will be easily put at • Craft stores In addition, there are beach parties, ease by the warm, small town welcome, • Specialty shops bands, food sales, dance presentations amazing views of the bay and Cerralvo • Real estate by local schools, 4 evening parties at Island, and the beautiful contrast of the • Construction companies local businesses, and an awards party. desert and sea. • Hardware stores

December 2015 13 The Baja Citizen The La Ventana Classic 2016 Dates

• Jan 5th Welcome Party and Registration at Palapas Ventana • January 6th – Gear Expo and Pro Clinics (Entire event site will be open for gear testing) plus the locally world famous party island downwinder poker run – with after party at Baja Joe´s. • Jan 7, 8, 9, 10 Main Event – Gear Expo continues. Long distance race • Big Air and Freestyle • Course Racing • SUP long distance crossing race, 13.5 mile downwinder and relay races • Evening of Jan 7th Rock and Roll beach party at the event site • Evening of Jan 8th Big Hair Big Air pool party at Club Cerralvo • Evening of Jan 9th Rock and Roll Pizza party at La Ventana Beach Resort • January 10th Evening Awards party • For more information, please check out the La Ventana Classic website www.laventanaclassic.com. Photos courtesy of Tim Hatler.

The Baja Citizen 14 December 2015 Have You Paid Aguinaldo to Your Employees?

By Gisela Talamantes Saenz

Article 87 of the Federal Labor Law establishes aguinaldo as an obligation/benefit, with an objective to grant employees a sufficient amount of money to cover extraordinary expenses during the end of the year holidays. According to the Federal Labor Law, employees shall receive a minimum of 15 days of their salary or more if the parties agree otherwise. Payment must be made before December 20th of the same calendar year and according to their current salary. It can be paid in cash, check or wire transfer if the employee has a payroll account. The right to legally request the payment of aguinaldo is of one year (article 516 Federal Labor Law). We recommend that the employer receive a signed receipt from the employee once payment has been made. The non-compliance by the employer of this obligation has a penalty that ranges from $3,238.00 to $323,800.00 pesos per employee. (Articles 992 and 1002 of the Federal La- bor Law). It is important to note that aguinaldo is one of the most important benefits for employees, therefore knowing how to properly calculate it and to pay it according to the law is very important in order to avoid labor lawsuits and to provide a healthy work environment. Therefore, is recommended that the employers initiate in advance the calculation of this benefit/obligation, in order to avoid any problems. If calculated in advance, there will be enough time to resolve and avoid any conflict with employees. Therefore to all employers, aguinaldo shall be paid on time, before December 20th, in order for your employees to Services be able to cover their expenses during the end of the year Real Estate Law Closing Services Tax Planning season. Immigration Corporate Law Happy Holidays! Buyer Representation Notary Services For more information please contact Gisela Ta- Trusts (Fideicomisos) Translations Accounting lamantes Saenz at [email protected] or via cell phone 612.136.4598. O ces in La Paz O ces in Los Barriles (The East Cape) Gisela Talamantes Saenz, LL.M, Attorney Ignacio Allende 895 Calle 20 de Noviembre at law and Official Translator. Prior to on the corner of Josefa Ortiz at Plaza Guadalupe starting her own practice, Ms. Talamantes La Paz, BCS, Mexico behind Caleb´s cafe served as a closing transaction coordina- Los Barriles, BCS, Mexico tor for PRUDENTIAL CALIFORNIA REALTY in Cabo San Lucas. Ms. Talaman- Gisela Talamantes Saenz Attorney at Law & O cial Translator tes earned her law degree from Monterrey Tech, Mexico. She holds a master’s degree in International Legal 612 136 4598 52 (612) 12 9 4044 Studies from the Washington College of Law at American Univer- [email protected] [email protected] sity in Washington DC. www.bajalegals.com

December 2015 15 The Baja Citizen Sinaloa

Josefa Ortiz de Dominguez Nayarit Oaxaca Jalisco Colima Encinas

Heroes de Independencia Legaspi

Republica Av. Reforma Febrero de 5

Constitución

Nicolas Bravo Nicolas V. Gome Farias Pineda Manuel

Vicente Guerrero Allende Ignacio

Antonio Rosales Antonio Cuauhtemoc

Heroes del 47 Morelos Ocampo Melchor Lic. Benito Juarez Benito Lic.

16 de Septiembre Santos Degollado Guadalupe Victoria

I. Altamirano León de Marquez Gral. Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla Navarro Heroes Colegio Miltar Francisco King Rondero Sonora Juan María de Salvatierra Lic. Manuel Torres Iglesias Ignacio Ramirez

5 de Mayo

Guilermo Prieto Independencia

Aquiles Serdán

Revolución de 1910

Francisco I. Madero

Belisario Dominguez

Malecón Artesanos Ignacio Zaragoza 21 de Agosto

Álvaro Obregón Belisario Dominguez Malecón

Agustin Arreola Esquerro

Abasolo

Topete

ESPIRITU SANTO AIRPORT ISLAND

SERPENTARIUM

Information Hospital Hotel Theater Restaurant Sinaloa

Josefa Ortiz de Dominguez Nayarit Oaxaca Jalisco Colima Encinas

Heroes de Independencia Legaspi

Republica Av. Reforma Febrero de 5

Constitución

Nicolas Bravo Nicolas V. Gome Farias Pineda Manuel

Vicente Guerrero Allende Ignacio

Antonio Rosales Antonio Cuauhtemoc

Heroes del 47 Morelos Ocampo Melchor Lic. Benito Juarez Benito Lic.

16 de Septiembre Santos Degollado Guadalupe Victoria

I. Altamirano León de Marquez Gral. Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla Navarro Heroes Colegio Miltar Francisco King Rondero Sonora Juan María de Salvatierra Lic. Manuel Torres Iglesias Ignacio Ramirez

5 de Mayo

Guilermo Prieto Independencia

Aquiles Serdán

Revolución de 1910

Francisco I. Madero

Belisario Dominguez

Malecón Artesanos Ignacio Zaragoza 21 de Agosto

Álvaro Obregón Belisario Dominguez Malecón

Agustin Arreola Esquerro

Abasolo

Topete

ESPIRITU SANTO AIRPORT ISLAND

SERPENTARIUM

Information Hospital Hotel Theater Restaurant Cheri, Anne and Joyce. Happy birthday Anne. Grand Opening of Paseo del Malecon in La Paz Vero at Llena tu Loko on Abasolo

John and Linda Eduardo, Zulma and Jose

Happy birthday Miguel

Happy birthday Robin! Francisco, Jill and Lila Jackie, Pat, Jeri-Anne and Sherri at Balandra Smiley citizens is brought to you by Traditional Mexican Dishes You Will Simply Enjoy!

On the corner of Allende and Guillermo Prieto Downtown La Paz, BCS

Welcome www.losmagueyeslapaz.com [email protected] Tuesday to Saturday: 8am - 10 pm / Sunday: 8:30 am - 6 pm (612) 128 7846 LosMagueyesRestaurante

The Baja Citizen 18 December 2015 Cheri, Anne and Joyce. Happy birthday Anne. Grand Opening of Paseo del Malecon in La Paz Vero at Llena tu Loko on Abasolo

John and Linda Eduardo, Zulma and Jose

Happy birthday Miguel

Happy birthday Robin! Francisco, Jill and Lila Jackie, Pat, Jeri-Anne and Sherri at Balandra Smiley citizens is brought to you by Traditional Mexican Dishes You Will Simply Enjoy!

On the corner of Allende and Guillermo Prieto Downtown La Paz, BCS

Welcome www.losmagueyeslapaz.com [email protected] Tuesday to Saturday: 8am - 10 pm / Sunday: 8:30 am - 6 pm (612) 128 7846 LosMagueyesRestaurante

December 2015 19 The Baja Citizen TEN THINGS TO DO WHEN YOU COME TO LA PAZ

By Donneley McCann

1. GO TO THE BEACH. Whether you choose El Tesoro (the treasure), Balandra (yacht), or El Tecolate (the owl), you are guaranteed beautiful white sand and tran- quil surroundings. Umbrella-type palapas along the water will give you some shade, and buses provide transportation to and from the beaches. 2. VISIT THE CEMETARY. With tombs resembling mausoleums, these grounds are full of family history, and the structures erected to loved ones are fascinating tributes. 3. RIDE HORSEBACK ALONG THE OCEAN. Gentle, friendly, and patient horses will convey you through the hills and desert to the shore. Sometimes they even do moonlight rides. Balandra Beach. Photo courtesy of Kat Bennett

4. STROLL 16 DE SEPTIEMBRE. Starting from the malecón, take your time wandering up the street named for Mexican Independence Day to check out the numerous small stores with their assortment of consumer goods. This is the main street of downtown La Paz. You may just find some things you didn’t know you needed. 5. PLAY BRIDGE. Every Wednesday and Saturday around noon, bridge players are invited to visit the Dock Res- taurant at Marina de La Paz to join in playing this fun card game. Wonderful way to meet others and enjoy honing your bridge-playing skill. 6. RENT A BICYCLE. Enjoy the fresh air and work on your tan while taking in the beautiful surroundings. There is even a special lane reserved only for bicycles on the malecón The Cemetary in La Paz along the seaside.

The Golf Club*at El Mogote 18 holes for US$60 great place to play 9 holes for US$35 Golf cart and clubs included Ask about our packages

Please call Marco at 612 105 3863 for more information

[email protected] www.mogotegol apaz.com *We are a non-pro t, member-supported organization dedicated to the preservation of our natural resources and to oering an aordable golf experience to the citizens and visitors of La Paz.

The Baja Citizen 20 December 2015 We are experts in commercial and investment properties. Centro Cultural de La Paz Contact the professionals and own a piece of serenity in La Paz. 7. LEARN TO SPEAK SOME SPANISH. There are a number of very capable schools that are willing to teach you to speak Spanish. Just think how much more you would enjoy Featured Listing your visit if you could converse with the locals. POSADA HOTEL COLIBRI 8. GO GOLFING. The peninsula (El Mogote) which is highly visible across the bay has a putting green and an 18- $ 825,000.00 USD hole golf course that is accessed by water taxi. Costabaja also Spectacular ocean view B&B located one block off Malecon. has an 18-hole course designed by Gary Player. You can en- Pool, Jacuzzi, 6 car garage, 6 bedrooms joy ocean views from both. and 8 bathrooms. 9. TRY PADDLEBOARDING. With very little water traffic and a usually calm ocean, you can try your hand at This business has been generating a very nice revenue. SUP (stand up paddling) in a safe environment. Watching the folks who do paddleboard makes one wonder why everyone isn’t out there ocean walking! Karina Ehrenberg Theurel Real Estate Broker/Agent 10. ENJOY AN ARTS OR CULTURAL EVENT. If you 612 103 6507 [email protected] www.bajacortes.com check out rozinlapaz.com,you will undoubtedly find un- On the corner of Colima and Topete. La Paz, BCS, Mexico forgettable entertainment at a cost that is so affordable you won’t believe it.

December 2015 21 The Baja Citizen The Work of International Community Foundation

EPI Mexico is another organization in La Paz that receives support from ICF. By Susan Fogel

The traffic in Centro has been building since mid-October. times, ICF hold donor opportunity meetings, where represen- Christmas arrived at Liverpool long before Day of the Dead. tatives of the Baja Sur non-profits can meet potential donors. Buen Fin just passed, and soon it will be Christmas. ICF helps approved groups write, receive, and adminis- While expats, as a group, are generous all year and step up ter grants. The various organizations supported by ICF must to help kids in need, our seniors, and disaster victims here and keep accurate books and open to interested persons. When in other parts of Mexico, this time of year is when non-profits you make a donation to an ICF fund, you can be assured that earn a large part of their annual budget. And the requests for your money is going where you intended, not in someone’s donations come daily. pocket. There are many worthy organizations here in La Paz. Continues on next page Whether you want to help the children of the barrios, work to clean up beaches, or donate cash to save the whale shark, or keep our water drinkable, you are still faced with the dilemma of where to give and how to give. In our last issue we wrote about being careful where you donate, and to always ask for a receipt. One of the best ways that you can donate during this holiday season, or anytime, is via the International Community Foundation (ICF). ICF started as a small organization called, Give to Baja. They were initially very local, reaching out to Baja California communities just south of San Diego. They expanded their efforts to all of the Baja California Peninsula, and now have an international reach, mainly to Latin America. To help non-profit organizations become organized, ICF holds workshops on the proper management and administra- tion of funds, and sets them up as non-profits in the US so that you may receive a tax-deductible receipt. There are ongoing FANLAP is one of the many organizations in La Paz that receives workshops and seminars held locally and in California. At support from ICF.

The Baja Citizen 22 December 2015 In December of 2012, ICF hosted the first ExPat Forum in Mexico City. They arranged for selected expats from all regions of Mexico to attend meetings with state and federal government agencies representative. There were breakout sessions with state tourism and development officials at each session and day. Airfare and hotel accommodations were paid by ICF for the participants. One of ICF-funded organizations is Centro Mexicano de Derecho Ambental (CEMDA). CEMDA is an environmental law firm. Three times they won against the development of the Cabo Pulmo gigantic tourist center that would have de- stroyed the area. The most significant local impact that ICF has had is through their donor network, social media, and the friends

Raiz de Fondo is supported by ICF. NOW OPEN and family of ICF fans. They raised more than US$400,000 (nearly half a million dollars!) for disaster relief after Hur- GET TO KNOW US! ricane Odile. Even before Hurricane Patricia made landfall on the Pa- cific Coast, ICF was raising funds for disaster relief. This is an organization that has made a significant impact on local groups and to the city of La Paz and our state. Instead of sending more stuff to your family and friends, donate in their name to one of the ICF organizations or directly to ICF. It will be a gift that helps keep a kid in school and provide a hot breakfast to her or a gift that keeps our beaches clean or keeps a passionate law firm fighting to stop big development and environmental destruction. We have the entire line of products

Susan Fogel is an observer of life and writes to tell you what she sees. Visit her blog mexico- On the corner of Calle Puebla and Forjadores musings.com Col. Las Garzas La Paz, Baja California Sur Ph: 612 129 5799

December 2015 23 The Baja Citizen The Pelican Theatre’s Production of Love, Loss and What I Wore Coming Soon To a Theater Near You!

TBC

Last season saw the Pelican Theatre’s part of the play. Most of us will be able successful production of Let’s Make to relate, on some level, to all of it. a Scene: Three Short Comedies. This Artistic director of the Pelican The- January, the Pelican Theatre is excited atre, David Coxwell, says of the play, to be presenting the award-winning play “When I first read the title, I thought I’d Love, Loss and What I Wore, by sisters found a good theatrical striptease show. Nora and Delia Ephron. Imagine my surprise on finding a very Love, Loss and What I Wore has funny and poignant play, where women been a hugely popular show. At its Off- of different ages and nationalities come Broadway home in New York, it was the together to share their journeys of self- es seemed like they were taken straight theater’s second-longest running show discovery through their love/hate rela- from my life. There are also a few more ever. Dozens and dozens of well-known tionship with dress, style, and fashion.” serious monologues. Some of those had actresses have been part of the rotating Actress Celia Devault plays several me blinking back tears.” cast. It has been produced in a number characters in the Pelican Theatre’s up- Actress Pam Pacarar, who – like Ce- of cities in the US and Canada, setting coming production. “When I first read lia – plays several roles in the upcom- box-office records in both Los Angeles this play,” Celia tells us, “I laughed a lot. ing production, says she can relate to the and Toronto. The show has been staged There are so many comments that I can play “...because I have experienced love in over half-a-dozen countries besides empathize with. I am certain that there and loss. And who hasn’t gone to their the US and Canada, including Australia, will be something in this play that most closet and had NOTHING to wear? And France, Argentina, South Africa, and people will find speaks to their experi- I look best in BLACK!” the Philippines. ence.” When asked her reasons for being Why has this play been so popu- “Exactly,”agrees actress Kat Ben- excited about the roles she plays in this lar? Because everyone in the audience nett, who plays Gingy in the upcoming production of Love, Loss and What I – men, women, young, old, svelte, vo- show. “When I first read the play, some Wore, actress Jan Anderson says that af- luptuous, high-fashion, no-fashion... ev- of the ensemble pieces had me laughing ter reading the script, she was hooked. eryone – will be able to relate to at least so hard I could barely stop. Those piec- “My husband Rick is really the actor in

The Baja Citizen 24 December 2015 the family,” she tells us, “but he encour- aged me to ‘Just Do It!’ I feel honored to be working with someone as profes- sional as David Coxwell, as well as with the other delightful actresses. This play is a must-see!” The cast and crew of the Pelican Theatre’s Love, Loss and What I Wore includes both men and women. Four different countries are represented; ages span a range of nearly 50 years. Yet everyone involved – despite their dif- ferences – finds something in this play which speaks to them. That is why Love,

Share in the brilliance, excitement, and fun! Don’t miss the Pelican The- atre’s production of Love, Loss and What I Wore! Show dates: January 21, 22, 26, 27, and 28, 2016

All shows start at 7 p.m. at the Teatro de la Ciudad, La Paz. Wine will be served following per- formances.

Tickets are 150 pesos each, and will be on sale at Allende Books in La Paz and El Loss and What I Wore has been such a just seems that I’ve been given a won- Tecolote Bookstore in Todos Santos begin- hugely popular show. And the Pelican derful opportunity at this stage in my life ning in January, 2016. For more informa- Theatre’s production of the play prom- to be of service. For me, witnessing the tion as it becomes available, please visit ises to be a fun one. journey a production takes and seeing www.facebook.com/PelicanTheatreCoLP or Wes MacIntosh, the Pelican The- our artistic director get the most out of pelicantheatreoflapaz.wordpress.com. atre’s stage manager, shared with TBC our fantastic company of actors is sheer his thoughts on the upcoming show: “It brilliance and excitement!!” Photos courtesy of Victoria Eden and Kat Bennett

December 2015 25 The Baja Citizen Have You Heard About... By Ana Hall

When asked to write a “blurb” about Club Cruceros, I thought it would be easy. How many words can possibly be needed to describe a little clubhouse on the grounds of Marina de La Paz? Piece ? of cake — after all, I know them. I’ve been here eight years, have gone to eight Subastas, and multiple fundraising parties. Club Cruceros is all about fun! Yes, but not just that. Club Cruceros is also about helping the community. Where does the money from fundraisers A great place to go to find information is the Club Cru- go? It goes to multiple charities; among ceros’ website: www.clubcruceros.net. Once on the website you will notice the calendar of events, so you will always them, the following: know what is happening and when. Wow, these people are busy! • Care for Kids One of the big fund-raising events to help the community • Horse Therapy for Special Needs Kids (Ninos Ariba - is Subasta – a fun-filled afternoon that includes a flea mar- Terapia de los Caballos) ket, cold beer, great food, face painting for the little ones, • Elder Care Facility (Asilo de Ancianos San Vicente de arts and crafts, and dozens of fantastic items being raffled off Paul) throughout the day. If you haven’t been, you must go! This • Beds For Kids (Camas para los niños) year’s Subasta is scheduled for December 6. • The Orphanage (Nuevo Creacion) Another big event sponsored by Club Cruceros is Bay- • Subasta – an annual auction benefitting FANLAP (Fun- fest, which is all about innovation in the boating community. dación Ayuda Niños La Paz) If you attend – and all are welcome – you will find classes and lectures covering everything from beading and photog- raphy to the latest and greatest boating ideas. What have I learned in writing about Club Cruceros? I’ve learned that it isn’t just for boaters and that I need to go join. The book and video lending library in the clubhouse alone is worth the 100-peso-per-year membership fee. The club isn’t just about parties and fun, it’s about raising money for worthwhile causes, helping the community where needed, and making things happen.

Check it out; see for yourselves!

Club Cruceros library

The Baja Citizen 26 December 2015 Gourmet pizzas lasagnelasagne andand pastaspastas mademade withwith 100%100% organicorganic productsproducts Artists of Todos Santos

Live Music FridayFriday Nights!Nights!

HappyHappy HourHour 6:006:00 toto 8:008:00 pmpm 7th Annual MondayMonday Open Studios toto FridayFriday in Todos Santos Open Everyday 2:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m. On the corner of Colima and Topete, La Paz / 14 612 50 / 612 103 6507

TBC

This is a once a year opportunity to visit the Todos Santos artists in their natural environment. The Open Studios event takes place Saturday and Sunday, February 6th and 7th 2016. The Open Studios Tour is now a two-day event where visitors will be able to see more art, more studios and spend more time with the artist at each studio. With a map in hand, showing all of the studios, visitors will get a glimpse of what the life of the artist is like. Up the back streets of the town, they will be able to see what goes on inside these studios. There will be painters, sculptors, photographers, muralists, plein air painters, encaustic artists, jewelers, printmakers, collage artists, potters, wood turners and we can only imagine what else. Last year’s 2015 Open Studios Tour with 34 participating artists saw 400 visitors roaming throughout the town in one giant art fest that raised 54,613 pesos for the Children’s Art Programs of The Palapa Society of Todos Santos. This year, all proceeds will benefit the same program.

For further information, please contact: Karin [email protected] 612-143-8491 (cellular) Steve [email protected] 612-145-0001 (land line) and 303-482-2287 (when calling from U.S.)

December 2015 27 The Baja Citizen Municipality of La Paz Property Tax Discounts on Now

TBC

Do you want to get a jump on the new year and pay your 2016 Also, you can head to the city of La Paz property taxes early? webpage www.lapaz.gob.mx The city of La Paz has announced its tem- to make your payment on-line. porary tax discount program for the months of October and November 2015. Payments on-line help you avoid the sometimes-long This temporary discount will run until the end of the No- line-ups that can be found at the end of the month. On-line vember 2015. If you pay your 2016 property taxes before payments can be done safely from your own home computer. November 30th, 2015, in one payment, you will receive a 30% discount on the total amount as well as an additional 5% discount. The municipality of La Paz offices are located on Blvd. Luis Donaldo Colosio and the corner of de los Depor- tistas. Office hours are from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m., Mon- day to Friday. On Saturdays, you can pay your bill from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Have your clave catastral or cadastral number handy to help you with the process at Servicios Catastrales offices on the second floor of the Municipality of La Paz building. This number can be found on your notary papers of the properties you have in La Paz. Please note that there is also a 20% discount on your pre- vious year’s property tax bill for those years that have not been paid as well as a 50% discount on all fines and late charges. Both of these discounts will be honored until De- cember 31st, 2015.

the settlement company

Serving the Mexican real estate Industry for more than 21 years

Now o ering a rental tax program for property owners

Your safety net in Mexican real estate

[email protected] www.settlement-co.com

The Baja Citizen 28 December 2015 EPN Meets With Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau Justin Trudeau repeated that he has instructed his cabinet to achieve the eventual elimination of visas for Mexicans wishing to visit his country.

TBC President Enrique Peña Nieto met with Prime Minister of The Mexican community residing in Canada is the second Canada Justin Trudeau in Antalya, Turkey within the frame- largest abroad, totaling 96,000; while over 60,000 Canadians work of the Group of 20 Leaders’ Summit. The meeting with live in Mexico permanently. Nearly two million tourists from President Pena Nieto was the first the Prime Minister of Canada visited Mexico in 2014 alone, making Canada the Canada has held with a head of state, thereby confirming the second source of tourists traveling to our country. importance the new Canadian government attaches to relations with Mexico. The two leaders agreed that this meeting marks the be- ginning of a new era in bilateral relations. In this regard, Prime Minister Trudeau once again thanked President Peña Nieto for being the first president to congratulate him after his victory in the general elections. They discussed Justin Trudeau’s campaign commitment regarding the review of a possible elimination of the visa requirement for Mexicans entering Canada. The Prime Min- ister told President Enrique Peña Nieto that he has issued instructions to both the Minister of Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, to review the policy. It has been 6 years since Canada decided to require Mexican visitors to obtain a visa. In July of 2009, a travel visa requirement was imposed on Mexican nationals to enter Canada after widespread abuse, citing a huge surge in refugee claims by visitors from Mexico. Mexico had become the number 1 source of refugee claims, with the number almost tripling to more than 9,400 in 2009 since 2005, the Canadian Immigration Department said in a press release at the time. The figure represented one-quarter of all claims made. About 90 per cent of the claims were rejected. The two leaders also exchanged views on the status of certain priority issues, such as the TPP and free trade for the development of both countries, the fight against climate change in light of the celebration of COP 21 in Paris and the Special Session of the United Nations General Assembly to discuss the world drug problem in April 2016. It should be recalled that on 20 October, when he con- gratulated Justin Trudeau on his election victory, President Enrique Peña Nieto and the new Prime Minister of Canada agreed to promote the strategic nature of bilateral relations within the context of North America and agreed that the objective of their respective governments is to improve living conditions and prosperity of the people of both countries. After 70 years of bilateral relations, Mexico and Canada have built a strategic partnership based on the principles of convergence, coincidence, and complementarity. Canada is Mexico’s third largest trading partner and its fourth largest source of foreign direct investment.

December 2015 29 The Baja Citizen A Small, Simple Water Filter That Saves Lives in Rural Mexico

By Robert Walker

• It is the size of an 8-ounce pop bottle.

• It produces one million gallons of bacteria- and cyst-free (e.g. Giardia) water over five years.

• It will give up to 100 people a day in a rural village clean drinking water during those five years.

• Over 100,000 are placed around the world, saving people from water-borne diseases. (Half the world is forced to drink unhealthy water.)

These filters are simple. They come in a pouch with a and its related components is $50 US. Because it is a Rotary ½-inch drill bit and the fitting to put an enclosed receptacle project, any help you give will be doubled by Rotary Interna- in whatever tank or bucket is used to pour the bad water into. tional. If you are a Mexican business, we are a Mexican char- The filter attaches to that with a short, flexible line. It also ity and can give you the proper paperwork for a tax write-off. comes with a syringe for cleaning. Just back-flush it with Solving bad water world-wide is Rotary’s number-one goal. three loads of clean water in the syringe. If you are interested in donating to this program, or would The amount of water you get per hour varies depending like to see the filter and talk about it, please contact either on how high your source is. I put a five-gallon bucket on my Chris Geyer, President of the Barrilles Rotary Club cgeyer@ kitchen counter and a five-gallon garrafon on the floor. With eoni.com, or Bob Walker [email protected], 612 104 about one pound of atmospheric pressure, I get five gallons 2072, member of the Bahia de La Paz Club. We would be in 45 minutes. If there is a tank on the roof, then the increased very happy to come and show you a filter and talk about the pressure will produce about five gallons in 15 minutes. program in more detail. The filter is used in kidney dialysis and is so effective that Go to wavesforwater.org to get the full the three health programs in Mexico -- ISSSTE, IMSS, and Salud Popular -- are going to take them to villages, install story of this filter and various installations. them, and teach the people what these filters do for them. Then, they will keep track of the results. On a recent visit to the Secretaría de Educación, the filter generated considerable interest. It would save a lot of money over the present system of trucking potable water to all the public schools in the Baja. They can use city water, put it through this filter and have potable water for a fraction of the price. The story here in Baja California Sur is simple. Two Ro- tary Clubs, Bahia de La Paz and Barrilles, decided to join with wavesforwater.org and put 500 of these filters in re- mote, small villages in BCS this year. The cost for one filter

The Baja Citizen 30 December 2015 Dental Clinic in the Dining Room

By Judy Peterson

The children of FANLAP wish to thank Craig Seimens, Juli Goff (of Se Habla….La Paz) and clients of Tailhunter International for combining efforts to hold a dental care clinic in our dining room in Colonia Laguna Azul. Families who live in the impoverished neighborhoods on the outskirts of La Paz seldom have the funds necessary to purchase food necessary for a healthy diet. With food and shelter being the most important part of the family’s budget, there is no money left for dental products. Craig Siemens, a dentist from Vancouver, British Columbia, has offered his services to local dentists in some of these communities. During his visit in November of this year, he decided to hold a dental clinic in our dining room, to demonstrate to the children how to properly brush their teeth. We arrived during the hour that more than 150 children came for a hot lunch after school. With that many children, it was difficult to hold a proper workshop; however, Craig brought copies of instructions in Spanish on how to brush your teeth. Jillene Roldan from Tailhunters International added about 300 toothbrushes and 50 tubes of toothpaste provided by their clients who came to La Paz on fishing charters. Juli Goff kindly added another 100 tubes of toothpaste to complete the number necessary for all of the children to receive toothbrushes and toothpaste.

Dr. Siemens also shared a chart which showed how much sugar is contained in a can of Coca Cola, in an effort to spread the word to the families of the colonias about the dangers of drinking soft drinks. Choosing a toothbrush We’ll see if the chat helps the people to For Sale by Owner curb their addiction to Coca Cola. Prime Ocean View Properties Lots starting at just $23,600 US (16,145.86 ft2 or 1,500 mt2) We are grateful to all of you for thinking Las Tinas, East Cape of “our children.” Only a 30-minute drive from Los Barriles

You may read about us and our programs at www.lapazninos.org +52 (612) 140 0391 [email protected] “Like” us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/fanlap

December 2015 31 The Baja Citizen LABORATORIOSLABORATORIOS DEDE ANÁLISISANÁLISIS CLÍNICOSCLÍNICOS

“DAD” PACKAGE

Glucose, uric acid & QFB Celia Casillas Esquivel cholesterol Triglycerides Prostate-speci c antigen Monthly Check-Up of Sugar Control (PSA) Glycated hemoglobin test Cost $190 pesos “B” PACKAGE Glucose RHEUMATIC PROFILE Cholesterol Uric acid and Antistreptolysin (ASO) Triglycerides C-reactive protein General urine exam Rheaumatic Factor Total Cholesterol Cost $350 pesos Triglycerides Uric Acid Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) Open Everyday Hematological biometry Including Sundays and Holidays Glucose MONDAY TO FRIDAY 6:00 to 21:00 Cost $450 pesos SATURDAYS 6:00 to 18:00 SUNDAYS 7:00 to 14:00

Phone: 122 4237 and 122 6981 On the corner of Cuauhtemoc and Heroes de Independencia. La Paz, BCS [email protected] GOING LOCAL TBC with Sean Bagg La Paz

Sean Bagg was born in Montreal, Canada. He attended Sunday. He is an amazing dog. I like Balandra, too. Great Carlton University in Ottawa and later moved to Vancouver beaches. to start his career. In 1986, he moved to Los Cabos, BCS and FAVORITE DAY TRIP: worked in real estate until he opened Land’s End Realty in Every Sunday we head to Tecolote Beach and spend the 1995. He currently has real estate offices in La Paz and Los afternoon there with the dogs. We invite friends and have a Cabos, keeping very busy. bbq and cook ribs and steaks. We swim. Take the toys out Now a long time resident of La Paz, Sean loves his ad- onto the water. We usually head back to La Paz by 5. It is a opted home and the life it affords him. He realizes he is very great way to spend a Sunday. lucky to live in paradise and enjoys when he is able to help FAVORITE ATTRACTION: others find their home here. We asked him to share with us The beaches. There is nowhere like this. We have it all. his favorite things about his paradise. FAVORITE PLACE FOR NIGHTLIFE: FAVORITE PLACES TO DINE: Downtown anywhere in La Paz. Lots of great places to Restaurants. Just kidding! I just went the other night and have a good time. I don’t go out at night though. had the buffet at the Nabrassa Brazilian Steak House. It was FAVORITE CITY HIGHLIGHT: good. The malecon is our local landmark and the most impor- FAVORITE SUMMER DAY REFRESHMENT: tant to the city. It really serves as a place for people of all ages Easy. A double canela at Mundo’s Bar. to come and relax or get some exercise. People are walking FAVORITE THING ABOUT LA PAZ: all the time. The people here are amazing. And the malecon. Nothing FAVORITE HIDDEN GEM: is better than this view from my office. Espiritu Santos Island. Not a lot of people go out and tour FAVORITE BEACHES: the island which amazes me. Beautiful. I like Tecolote. I take my dogs. Tuffy swims there every Emergency Services and Pharmacy

Hospital / Pharmacy / Operating Room / Radiology / Lab Analysis Clinic / Tomography / Mastography / 3D and 4D Ultrasound / Hemodialysis

Dr. Jose Miguel Olvera Macias Dr. Buenaventura Diaz Lopez Dr. Francisco Alfonso Camarena Sarabia Anesthesia Dra. María Isabel Sánchez Ramírez Traumatology and Orthopedics Dr. Angel Eduardo Sanchez Gil Internal Medicine Dr. Rafael E. Gastelum Quintero Angiology Sr. Sergio Romero Diaz Traumatology Dr. Omar Ponce de Leon Garcia Pneumology/Internal Medicine Dr. Jose Guillermo Sanchez Huitron Angiology and Vascular Surgery Dr. Edgar Contla Jaime Traumatology and Orthopedics Dr. Juan Manuel Olivares Aquino Nephrology Dr. Jorge Alberto Beltran Minjares Dra. María Isabel Sánchez Ramírez Dr. Ines Murillo Amador Urology Cardiology Odontology Lic. Ismene Alejandra Melendrez Cota Dr. Jose Antonio Martinez Salcedo Dr. Kydzya Lyz Rangel Magdaleno Nutrition General Surgeon/ Gastroenterology Pediatric Odontology Dr. Ricardo Flores Nannum Dr. Fausto Miguel Lechuga Ortiz General Surgeon Ophthalmology/ Retina Emergency Services Dr. Rafael Gonzalez Molina Dr. Andres Mares Contreras Dr. Francisco Javier Melo Palacios General Surgeon/ Gastroenterology Oncology General Medicine Dr. Enrique Guzman Quezada Dr. Napoleon Rodriguez Gudiel Dr. Ignacio Alfredo Delgado Moreno General Surgeon/ Gastroenterology Surgical Oncology General Medicine Dr. Elmer Tarazon Moreno Dr. Saúl Angulo Santos Dr. Jose Andres Herrera Colmenero General Surgeon Ear, Nose & Throat General Medicine Dr. David Mejia Camacho Dr. Jose Manuel Peñaloza Gonzalez Dr. Mario Castillo Garza Pediatric Surgeon Pediatric Ear, Nose & Throat General Medicine Dr. Karina Ramos Ramos Dr. Francisco Aguilar Von Borstel Dr. Nuria Castro Garcia Dermatology Pathology General Medicine Dr. Robert Andrik Cruz Morales Dr. Enrique A. Barroso Ibarra Dr. Sergio Enrique Carrillo Isais Endocrinology Pediatrics/ Neonatology General Medicine Dr. Patricia Guluarte Ruiz Dr. Jose Rodrigo Cariño Orozco Dr. Veronica Echenique Chavez Endocrinology Pediatrics General Medicine Dr. Rosa Margarita Chiapa Cortes Dr. Ana Maria Guzman Palacios Dr. Ramon Gaxiola Robles Endoscopy Radiology General Medicine Dr. Ignacio Alfredo Delgado Gonzales Dr. Carlos E. Pozo Juarez Dr. Jesús Ernesto Winkler Rodríguez Obstetrics and Gynecology Radiology Q.F.B. Ma. Clotilde García Soberanes Dr. Maria Eugenia Tapia Avilies PHONE: 612 124 04 00 - 08 Chemist/Laboratory Radiology FAX: 612 124 04 09 Dr. Jose A. Herrera Colmenero Dr. Victor Gatica Ensaldo General Medicine Radiology CARRETERA AL NORTE KM 4.5 Y DELFINES Dr. Mario Castilla Garza Dr. Isaac Mauricio Zuñiga Gonzalez NO. 110, FRACC. FIDEPAZ, LA PAZ, B.C.S. General Medicine Retina Specialist/Corneal Transplant