TheNovenber 2015 CitizenYour Community Magazine
REVOLUTION FREE Day in Mexico page 3
GOING LOCAL Víctor Granados page 8
La Paz Map pages 16-17
www.bajacitizen.com The Baja Citizen 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..
Club Marlin Casa Vista – Colina del Sol MLS# 14-1601 MLS # 15-1208 $599,000 US $135,000 Perfect investment. Terms available. 1 bed, 1.5 bath. Spectacular El Centenario beachfront property. views and plenty of potential.
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 Carnaval La Paz 2016 [email protected] 5 20 de Noviembre, Revolution Day in Mexico 612 159 1388 6 El Camino Real de las Californias Graphic Design 8 Going Local Fernando Sánchez Bernal 9 Over the River and Through the Woods... art 10 Julio Ibarra: Kindness, Strength, and Dedication publishing photo 12 President Enrique Peña Nieto Visits BCS design 14 Ramblings: People I’ve Met Around La Paz consulting 15 Document Sighting of Two Vaquita Porpoises [email protected] / 612 14 00 542 16 La Paz Map The Baja Citizen community magazine 18 Smiley Citizens is a monthly, free circulation magazine 20 Merino, Casty, Magallón that is distributed in La Paz and the communities of El Centenario, Todos - Three Artists, Three Ways to Art Santos, El Pescadero, El Sargento/La 21 Traditional Fishing and Tending Nets Ventana and Los Barriles. 22 What Is MIAU Gatito? The views of contributors to The Baja 24 Income and Expenses of the Municipality Citizen community magazine do not 25 Antique Classic Car Show and Parade necessarily reflect those of the publishers. 26 Shhhh - FANLAP Subasta Publisher: Hally J. Productions S. de R.L. 27 Give Me Shelter: How to Donate Safely La Paz, BCS, Mexico 23090 28 Property Tax Discounts on Now 29 What Is CURP? Our Cover Photographer 30 5th Annual SUP Races La Paz 31 SJC-CSL Highway Inaugurated What Is Buen Fin? 32 Facts About Arsenic
IMPORTANT LA PAZ PHONE NUMBERS Fernando Sánchez Fernando studied graphic communication design in college, but EMERGENCY Port Captain has dedicated himself to photography since 1990. He has received (Police or Fire Department) 122 0243 several grants for his photography. His work has been exhibited 066 both locally and nationally, including in the Centro de la Imagen in Highway Patrol Federal Immigration Mexico City. Federal Police O ce (INM) Since 1998 he has lived here in La Paz, where he continues to be 122 0369 125 3493 122 0429 active in the culture scene: teaching photography classes; partici- IMSS Hospital pating in both solo and group art exhibits; and being involved in 122 7377 State Tourism O ce projects to promote culture, including designing and editing the Fidepaz Hospital 124 0100 124 0400 120 0199 bilingual book Sudcaliforma: An Anthology of Visual Arts in Baja California Sur. Editor’s Letter The Citizen
Greetings and a warm welcome to our November edition of We are more than thrilled with your response and we will the Baja Citizen magazine. continue to publish a magazine that reflects and highlights all It has been a busy few months getting the new publi- the best of our community. We are also honored to share the cation together as we make sure we meet the needs of the work of so many committed and thoughtful people that work community as well as to those of our advertisers. We are still everyday to make living in Baja great. working out some kinks and appreciate your patience and The Baja Citizen is a community magazine and therefore feedback but most of all, thank-you so much for your heart- in some way or form, it is all of us. We will strive always to felt response. We couldn’t be more excited to have had the keep you engaged; you, the readers, are free to engage with us. community warmly embrace the redesigned and reimagined For the December issue, we will start publishing, with the Baja Citizen magazine. help of Ros of www.rozinlapaz.com, the community events We would like to share with you some of the compli- calendar, so please, if you have an upcoming event, submit a ments we have received from readers and clients on our in- short paragraph or two with all the important information so augural issue: we can get the word out.
Just want to congratulate you on an elegant, stylish and beautifully laid-out magazine. The cover design is just stunning. Wishing you all the success with your new magazine that you deserve... We were shocked to find the new issue of the Baja Citizen at Walmart with a new design. We weren’t expecting it. What a treat for us! Once a month? Sounds great. We will make sure to get our hands on each edition and leave it for our guests to enjoy. The new format is wonderful. Everyone is rav- ing about it. And the content as always interesting, concise and accurate…very professional. I have really enjoyed working with you in the past, and as always if called upon, more than willing to help With my monstruos in the future. You have really outdone yourself GE. What a treat. The design is beautiful and it is very easy We are also always looking for news stories. If you think to read; even for my old eyes. What a great step you have an interesting news idea that you would like us to forward for you. publish, send us an e-mail. Information for events and news items must be received before the 20th of each month for pub- The new magazine format is fabulous, we will lication in the following month’s issue. Please send details to be keeping copies as coffee table reading material me at [email protected]. long after it was published! Just beautiful! Con- gratulations... We appreciate your support and are so happy to have you as a reader of Baja Citizen magazine. Great mag. I see it staying on many coffee ta- bles. Thanks. Yours, Gari-Ellen
November 2015 3 The Baja Citizen Spanish Corner
Difficult Spanish Words/ Meanings for Foreigners Always laugh when you make a really good mistake! Oops! abogado lawyer, attorney, solicitor aguacate avocado arena sand estadio arena carpeta folder or briefcase alfombra carpet éxito success salida exit delito crime, misdemeanor deleite delight, pleasure embarazada pregnant vergüenza embarrassment vaso glass or vase copa wineglass (glass of wine), a drink fabrica factory, works tela fabric Dates Have Been Set for There are so many more Carnaval La Paz 2016 similar words that can trip you up… keep your dictionary close by when you are out and about.
The Spanish Corner is brought to you by Photo F.Sánchez. Carnaval 2013
TBC
The Mayor of La Paz, Armando Martinez Vega, has an- nounced that Carnaval La Paz 2016 will take place Febru- ary 4th until February 9th, 2016. It is the city’s biggest street party held each year on the malecon. Martinez Vega said that preparations are already underway and they are asking that all Sudcalifornianos help out to make the 2016 edition a success! Carnaval is an annual 6-day event held in major cities in Mexico and in other parts of the world (Rio de Janeiro!) that generally occurs the week before Lent with all activities end- ing by Ash Wednesday, or the start of Lent. The traditional Carnaval parades are the last three days of the festival, Sunday the 7th, Monday the 8th and Tuesday the 9th.
The Baja Citizen 4 November 2015 20 de NoviembreRevolution Day in Mexico On Friday, November 20th, Mexico celebrates the anniversary of its Revolution of 1910 to 1920. On this date, in the year 1910 the war to overthrow the dictator Porfirio Díaz, began. General Porfirio Díaz had been in power in Mexico for more than 30 years, from 1876-1911.
TBC
Between 1910 and 1920, there were several battles through- Revolution Day on Monday, the 16th - a long weekend for out the country. This period also produced the Mexican Con- everyone! stitution of 1917. On Friday, the 20th, the usual festivities includes a morn- November 20th is marked with bazaars, parades and civ- ing parade on the malecón here in La Paz. School aged kids ic ceremonies throughout the country. In cities and towns will be on floats dressed up as revolutionaries, bands will throughout Mexico, schoolchildren dress up as revolutionar- be playing music and dance troops will be making choreo- ies and participate in local parades. graphed formations. Shouts of “¡Viva la Revolución!” and This year in La Paz, Monday the 16th will be a govern- “¡Viva México!” can be heard. It usually starts at 9:00 a.m. ment holiday: banks, government offices and some business- and runs an hour or two long. es will be closed. Schools in La Paz will also be honoring
Photos courtesy of Jeanne Walker.
November 2015 5 The Baja Citizen BI-NATIONAL EFFORT KICKS OFF TO RECEIVE UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE STATUS FOR EL CAMINO REAL DE LAS CALIFORNIAS
Photo F.Sánchez. San José de Comondú TBC
On the site of the original Presidio in ing Mexico’s Instituto Nacional de Real de las Californias outstanding uni- San Diego, two leading organizations Antropología e Historia or INAH, US/ versal value, but also to bring us togeth- dedicated to historic preservation in ICOMOS, California State Parks, the er as family to learn about our common their respective countries announced National Parks Service as well as with histories as we tell our stories.” a bi-national Initiative to work toward the San Diego Maritime Museum, the El Camino Real de las Californias earning a UNESCO World Heritage Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preser- was officially given its name during Nomination for El Camino Real de las vation and many other organizations. In the Spanish period, and continues as a Californias. addition, this bi-national Initiative will much-travelled route today. Originally The U.S.-based California Mis- include community members from a va- using trails first transversed by Na- sions Foundation (CMF) and the Mex- riety of backgrounds including histori- tive Americans, El Camino Real de las ico-based Corredor Histórico CAREM, ans, Native American groups and other Californias has seen slight modifications A.C. are teaming up to bring recognition experts in both countries. over the years. and awareness to El Camino Real de las “Today we reaffirm our mutual com- Throughout history, El Camino Real Californias -- a historic corridor stretch- mitment to begin our shared vision of de las Californias has linked Missions, ing from Los Cabos in Baja California El Camino Real de las Californias as a Presidios, Asistencias, Ranchos and Sur to Sonoma in northern California. World Heritage Site in partnership with Pueblos. Today it continues to link im- Flanked by representatives of the Mexico and Spain.” said Milford Wayne portant cultural, historic, natural land- U.S., Mexico and Spain, the lead- Donaldson, FAIA, chairman of Califor- scapes, ecology, and urban centers in ers of California Missions Foundation nia Missions Foundation. “California both countries. and Corredor Histórico CAREM, A.C. will add its first cultural World Heritage “The Camino Real de las Californias outlined plans for this multi-year, Bi- Site to our two natural sites, Yosemite represents a cultural route that will be of National Initiative that will include and the Redwoods. Together, as signato- universal value,” said CAREM Presi- partnering with government agencies ry nations, we will work as one commu- dent Hernán Ibañez. “The peninsula of in both the U.S. and Mexico, includ- nity to not only protect the El Camino Baja California, Mexico is an enthusias- tic partner in this effort.”
The Baja Citizen 6 November 2015 “This designation could mean a powerful tool for landscape preservation, a way to engage and value living peoples and to preserve historical touchstones (missions, trails, rock art and indigenous sites and traditions),” said Julia Bendimez, regional director for INAH in the state of Baja California.
Unlike other Caminos Reales in the sponsored two-day gathering in Ensena- physical significance. There are nearly Americas, and unique to California, El da, B.C. December 9-10, followed by 1,000 designated sites worldwide, in- Camino Real de las Californias had both the 33rd California Missions Confer- cluding 33 in Mexico and 23 in the Unit- a land and maritime component. ence this February in San Juan Bautista, ed States. El Camino Real de las Cali- “As many historians are aware, more CA that will feature as its 2016 theme, fornias would be the first Bi-National often than not California was depicted “El Camino Real de las Californias.” Nomination for the two countries. as an island completely detached from World Heritage Designation by the the rest of continental North America in United Nations Educational, Scientific For more information, contact the maps from the beginning of the seven- and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) International Community Foundation at teenth century until well into the eigh- signifies being of special cultural or www.icfdn.org. teenth century,” said Dr. Ray Ashley, president and CEO of the San Diego Maritime Museum. “While this is now considered the longest running carto- graphic error in the history of mapmak- ing, in one sense it wasn’t an error at all. California was, to all practical pur- poses, connected to the rest of the world mainly by water during the age of sail and not only functioned as an island, but itself was a series of islands connected to each other by a network of missions, presidios, and ranchos, linked through a series of ports and the ships which used them. Thus, the El Camino Real de las Californias wasn’t simply a road linking missions, but an early intermodal trans- portation network in which the majority of goods, people, knowledge, and politi- cal power moved principally by sea and From left to right then diffused over land.” Maria Angeles O’Donnell de Olsen, Spain’s Honorary Consul General of San Diego. As part of the work ahead for this Bi- David Bolton, Executive Director, California Missions Foundation. National Initiative, a series of working Milford Wayne Donaldson, Chairman, California Missions Foundation. sessions and summits are being planned Hernan Ibañez, President, Corredor Historico Carem, A.C. to explore all aspects of a World Heri- Zella Ibañez, Executive Director, Corredor Historico Carem, A. C. tage Nomination for El Camino Real de Julia Bendimez P, Delegate of the Instituto Nacional de Antropologia e Historia (INAH) in las Californias. First up will be a INAH- Baja California.
November 2015 7 The Baja Citizen GOING LOCAL La Paz
South Baja Realtors South Baja Realty Víctor
TBC with Victor Granados FAVORITE THING ABOUT LA PAZ: Walking or running on the malecón. No doubt. Seven years ago this month, Victor Granados and his FAVORITE BEACHES: partner in crime, Edith Gonzalez, started their new adventure For me, the best beach is El Tesoro or Tecolote. I like in life: South Baja Realtors. After making hundreds of happy Balandra, too. I like all three of them! They are calm, and just clients – and, in turn, new friends – over the years, South splendid places to sit and enjoy the beauty of nature. Baja Realtors has grown into one of Baja California Sur’s FAVORITE DAY TRIP: most respected real estate offices. El Tríunfo, and we go there to eat with Marc at Caffé El Victor loves La Paz and everything it has to offer. In cel- Tríunfo. Great place! ebration of his 7th anniversary with South Baja Realtors, FAVORITE ATTRACTION: we asked him to share with us his favorite things about the Visiting Espíritu Santo Island. You won’t regret it. Puerto de Ilusión. FAVORITE PLACE FOR NIGHTLIFE: Haha! I don’t really go out much at night. But there are FAVORITE PLACES TO DINE: many bars now in downtown La Paz. Cerveceria la México, I really enjoy Rincón Gourmet (on Abasolo). I am usually for example. It is an open-air bar, and fun for all age groups. in a hurry, and they are fast with great dishes. If I have time, I FAVORITE CITY HIGHLIGHT: love going to the sushi restaurants in the city, like Sake Sushi It really depends on the season, but a great treat is swim- & Bar in the Mega mall. ming with the whale sharks. Lots of people have told me it is FAVORITE SUMMER DAY REFRESHMENT: their best experience here in La Paz. I like places that have a view of the water. One of my FAVORITE HIDDEN GEM: favorite places is Zitius Pizza & Bar, in Vista Corral. It is The public markets or mercados publicos, like Mercado outside, but there is always a breeze coming off the water. I Bravo. It is a great place to find fresh produce and eat deli- enjoy having a cold beer or a mojito. cious Mexican food.
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The Baja Citizen 8 November 2015 Over the River and Through the Woods…
By Susan Fogel
Over the river and through the woods? Well, more like avoid If you are so inclined you can find all the the pothole, dodge the bus, and find a place to park. And once fixin’s for a traditional turkey dinner to you have done that, a succulent turkey dinner awaits… now. Not so, a few years ago. cook at home, and you can even watch Back in 2000, a watershed year for Boomers decamping the Macy’s parade and a football game or to Mexico, Thanksgiving was very different here in the City two. of Peace. There were very few restaurants, and hardly any of them served a traditional and tasty American-style Thanks- giving dinner. If you’d rather not cook, there are all styles and prices In fact, horror tales were told about folks sneaking tur- of turkey dinners available at many restaurants in town. If keys across the border so that the family could be fed. Then you would like to offer your friends and family a new dining some scrawny frozen turkeys made their appearance in the experience with a view of the water and city lights, come to old CCC (now Chedraui) grocery store. Okay, they weren’t Big Ruby’s Cantina, where owner Rohn Minshul has cre- Butterballs with pop-up timers, but they were turkeys. But, ated a neighborhood atmosphere he describes as “Cheers even after there were turkeys, there were no roasting pans! with a view.” Imagine a complete turkey dinner – including No, really! To be fair, the pans eventually arrived several the pumpkin pie – served at the beachside restaurant for a months later, piled high at the ends of the grocery store aisles, mere $200 pesos. Service starts at 3:00 and goes to 10:00. probably courtesy of Safeway dumping its overstock to make Reservations are required. Call 612 151 0862. room for BBQ supplies. Smart shoppers and planners scored a foil roasting pan or two and put them away for the next Thanksgiving. Shopping back then was an exercise in communication Susan Fogel is an observer of life and writes to and creativity. When someone was shopping for the holidays tell you what she sees. Visit her blog mexico- and they spied whole cranberries in the bag, the drumbeat musings.com would go out over the Coconut Telegraph, and in half a day all of them would be gone. Yams (camote in Spanish) were plentiful, but inconsistent - sometimes wonderfully sweet, sometimes woody. There were canned yams on the shelf, over in the fruit aisle, and those would do in a pinch, but what about stuffing? No Pepperidge Farm Savory Stuff- ing mix was to be found, so some Bimbo white bread was Join us for a pressed into service. Now we have access to artisanal bread, Orowheat thousand-grain bread, and various stuffing mixes Traditional to fill the bird. Thanksgiving Canned cranberries will NEVER grace the table of My Beloved. But Thanksgiving without cranberry sauce is un- Dinner thinkable. So having read about how the tuna, the red fruit of El Centenario, BCS the pitahaya cactus has a cranberry-raspberry taste, I bought Dinner Menu some, cooked them up and passed them off as cranberry Thursday November 26th, 2015 sauce. No one noticed; they even complimented my very Starter Salad Serving between 2pm - 8 pm Roast Turkey tasty sauce. When they asked, “What did you put in them?” I enjoyed the baffled silence that followed my answer: “Tuna.” Stu ng Garlic mashed Potatoes Reservations required You newcomers who complain that you cannot find a Veggies & Homemade Bread Call 612 151 0862 free-range, grain -fed, happy-to-its-last-day organic turkey Pumpkin Pie or Cheesecake do not know what suffering is! Two years ago, there was no 200 pesos per person Libby’s (or anybody’s) pumpkin puree. There was no pump- kin pie served at most of the restaurants in town. Cheesecake Friday November 27th, 2015 Lunch Special is good, but not so much on Turkey Day. Hot Turkey Sandwiches and Fries 100 pesos
November 2015 9 The Baja Citizen Julio Ibarra: Kindness, Strength, and Dedication
Christmas decorations from Ibarra Pottery Julio Ibarra
By Ana García Ibarra
I grew up muddy, playing with molds and brushes, being was just fascinated by having all of his grandchildren with careful not to break pieces while running around the pottery their wide-open eyes listening to everything he had to say; shop. But we are not talking about me. This article is about and then it was we who lived all the stories with him. the man who never got angry if I broke a piece or two. Apart from being young, Juanita’s husband, adventurous, If I had to choose three words to describe him, they would my mother’s dad, and a grandfather, Julio was also an artist, be kindness, strength, and dedication. but a real one -- like the ones who live for and by art. If you Julio Ibarra is the name of the man who, more than my ask me how I remember him, I would say, working. If I had mother’s dad, was my grandfather. And, no, I never called to describe him, it would always be with clay in his hands and him “abuelo” because I think that is a strong word for such clothes. And even if he thought he looked bad, he actually a sweetness. For me, he will always be my “abuelito” and looked like an expert in his field. Even with broken shoes or nothing more. pants full of glaze, he inspired respect from everybody who Before becoming my grandfather, he was a young man met him. with dreams, goals, and aspirations -- just like me. He loved When I was a kid, I remember spending the days sitting art, his mother, and life. But more than that, he loved Juanita, by his side with a book in my hands, reading out loud. He the artist he met when he was seventeen and the woman who would take his glasses off, and sometimes he would close his would become my grandmother. eyes. I always thought he was doing that to concentrate more, Julio used to be a dancer; he was funny and stubborn but now I think he actually did that because he was having according to the thousands of stories that I heard from his trouble understanding my reading as I was only six. Anyhow, mouth while he was drinking coffee. He used to put his hands he seemed to enjoy our moments. together and smile, showing his teeth -- those teeth with so Years later, I remember having my first debates with him. many flaws – a smile that was perfect in its own way, mostly If I learned how to debate, it was not because he taught me because it was sincere. I’m sure that he smiled so much while how to do it step by step, but because it was almost impos- telling us his stories because he relived all the adventures; he sible to find a way to win against him. Nothing worked, and enjoyed them as if he were living them again. Or maybe he sometimes I ended up upset with my arguments, with life, or
The Baja Citizen 10 November 2015 with myself -- but never with him. Don Julio had that; you could never be angry at him. Even if he was stubborn, you just simply couldn’t. From him and his thousand scars, I learned that it doesn’t matter if you fall, get hurt, or if it hurts. You have to keep going. Work, life, and opportunities do not wait for you to heal. You just simply put a bandage on the wound. And if somebody asks you what happened, you say, “it’s nothing,” and move on. So, apart from being young, Juanita’s husband, adven- turous, my mother’s dad, a grandfather, and an artist, Julio Ibarra was a dealer. And one of the best. He started 25 years ago, when his first granddaughter was born, and it lasted until his final days. I remember him hiding candy, chocolate, and
ther, artist, dealer, and accomplice… has now become my guardian angel. The best of all. And although his physical absence hurts, I feel him so present in my life that I’m sure he is. Days before he left, he promised me he would always watch over me and take care of me. Today I know he is doing that; I feel it. Rather than blame God for having taken one of my he- roes from my life, I think I’m thankful for the opportunity to have met him. Ibarra’s unique designs. money to give us. He always did that when my grandmother or our parents weren’t looking. And that face, raising his eyebrows like say- ing “be careful, it’s our secret,” is going to be my favorite memory. And I’m sure it’s the same for all of my cousins. I think there are no real words to describe him -- neither him nor his big heart, his love for his fam- ily, his kindness towards people in need, or his desire to live. I could write paragraphs, but only the peo- ple who had the fortune to meet him would know what I’m talking about. Julio Ibarra, apart from being young, Juanita’s husband, adven- turous, my mother’s dad, grandfa-
November 2015 11 The Baja Citizen Presidente Enrique Peña Nieto Visits Baja California Sur *Assures BCS government of his support in dealing with the most sensitive issues and those of great concern to the State.
Governor Mendoza Davis with President Peña Nieto
President EPN with La Paz Mayor Armando Martinez Vega
TBC
President Enrique Peña Nieto, during his recent visit to BCS, announced his government’s readiness to form a team and a common front with the government of Baja California Sur to address the most sensitive issues and those of greatest con- cern to the state. He told the newly-elected state governor Carlos Mendoza Davis: “Mr. Governor, I wish to confirm the government’s de- sire and will to review various projects that will enable other We are experts areas in this state to be consolidated and become major tourist in commercial and investment properties. destinations.” Contact the professionals and own The president specifically mentioned Loreto, a project be- a piece of serenity in La Paz. gun several decades ago that has yet to be fully completed. “I promise that we will make a shared effort, combine forces and work on ways to boost the development of this beautiful site, so important to the state of Baja California Sur, Karina Ehrenberg Theurel which undoubtedly has enormous potential,” he said. Real Estate Broker/Agent He announced that he instructed various areas in the tour- 612 103 6507 ism sector, together with the state government, to review the [email protected] project to launch Loreto, “And find the best way to consoli- www.bajacortes.com date the project that was designed decades ago, but failed to mature.” On the corner of Colima and Topete When he inaugurated the San José del Cabo - Cabo San La Paz, BCS, Mexico Lucas highway, President Peña Nieto said, “Although one of the main engines of economic development in Baja Califor-
The Baja Citizen 12 November 2015 nia Sur is tourism, it must be accompanied by meeting vari- ous needs that will enhance and consolidate this activity and provide welfare for the people of the state.” One such issue, he added, is public safety. “This is un- doubtedly one of the most sensitive issues for Baja California Sur society, particularly the state capital, La Paz,” he said. “The government is committed and determined to ac- company the efforts of the state government to ensure law and order in the state, peace of mind for the residents of Baja California Sur, and enable tourism to remain an activity im- portant for this state,” he declared. The president declared that Baja California Sur is one of the most important tourist destinations in our country, while “tourism at the national level has been one of the primary engines for economic development.” He noted that three years into the current administration, Mexico is once again ranked as one of the world’s top ten tourist destinations. “It is the country that receives the tenth largest number of tourists in the world, which is why tourism has become an important engine for the development of our economy,” he said. He explained that 2014 was a good year for tourism in Mexico, a trend that is expected to continue this year. “Be- “This is the government’s work ethic: combine efforts to tween January and August of this year, we had an increase achieve the goals we have set, continue to carry out infra- in the number of foreign visitors: 21.2 million tourists, 8.4 structure projects, particularly highways, to consolidate the percent more than we had in 2014.” connectivity of our country, which will lead more regions in If this trend continues, he added, “We will undoubtedly the country to progress and development,” he said. reach a figure of 30 million tourists in our country a year. He added that public works, like the inauguration of Mexico will continue to be consolidated as a major world the San José del Cabo - Cabo San Lucas highway, “make tourist destination, which will benefit Mexican society.” it possible to create infrastructure to increase the country’s The president declared that, “We will therefore continue competitiveness, improve connectivity, and above all, make working to boost tourism to consolidate projects.” Mexico a more modern, safer country, and generate condi- Moreover, he said, “We will consider building infrastruc- tions of well-being for its population.” ture that enhances our competitiveness and makes us more attractive.”
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 o ering an a ordable golf experience to the citizens and visitors of La Paz.
November 2015 13 The Baja Citizen Ramblings: People I’ve Met Around La Paz
By Judy Ristity
La Paz has its share of designers. Their artis- tic medium may be wood, cloth, or soil and, applying imagination and skill, they produce clothing, sculptures or organic gardens. Most of us don’t think of ourselves as designers, but we are because we’ve chosen to create new lives in La Paz. We weren’t content to fashion our futures using our old patterns. We wanted something new – something exotic. We’ve taken our lives, and altered them. We’ve left our birth countries, Sara missed her mother terribly and was determined that moved to La Paz and discovered that, for us this city suits us. when she married, she’d create the ideal family. But life got But wait, not only non-Mexicans arrived in La Paz with the complicated. dream of recreating our lives. When she was twenty she felt that the only way to alter Sara Repper is Mexican. She was born in Pachuca. She is her life was to marry. Unfortunately, her husband wanted a a designer – yes, she works her magic with cloth and thread, stay-at-home wife. Sara longed to study design and work. but she’s also refabricated her life like we ex-pats have. They had two children but when they were in school and her As a little child Sara had an immense imagination, but husband was at work, she attended classes and then rushed it was her determination and resiliency that allowed her to home to greet the kids and prepare dinner for the family. Af- shape her future. She lost her father when she was two and ter her children married, she and her husband divorced. It was her mother when she was eleven. Her mother was a clothing time to design a new life. designer. Sara loved to watch her mother sew and she’d play She used her new freedom to study hairdressing and later with leftover fabric and devise dresses for her dolls. When accepted a job at the school. Meanwhile, she found an apart- her mother died Sara faced huge adjustments and challenges ment where she met Arturo, the brother of the landlord. He but her dreams remained strong. mentioned that he was taking dance lessons. Sara loved to Sara’s maternal grandmother and unmarried uncle raised dance. He invited her out for a cup of coffee. They’ve been Sara and her three siblings. “I admire and appreciate my un- together since. cle because he assumed responsibility for us. I learned my Arturo had dreams and a vision, also. He’d wanted to work ethic from him. My grandmother was very traditional: live near the seashore, wear shorts and tee-shirts, and enjoy a school was for boys but girls were supposed to learn domes- more laid-back life. Sara and Arturo explored Mérida, Playa tic chores”. Sara wanted to study and become a clothes de- de Carmen, Puerto Vallarta, and other towns located near the signer. “I used to pretend I was a model. I’d wrap a sheet coast. However, they couldn’t forget the occasion they’d around myself and imagine it was a wedding dress. I’d walk visited Arturo’s brother – in La Paz. “We recalled strolling like I was on a runway. This made me very happy.” on the Malecon, the sound of the palm trees and the gentle As she got older she was allowed to study sewing and waves. We decided to move to La Paz.” received good grades. She loved to sketch new designs. One She’s currently studying Power Point and plans to explore day she looked in a magazine and found a dress very similar painting, creative writing, and improve her English. She’s to one she’d previously sketched. Her self-confidence blos- happy. somed. “I always had an independent personality and that Sara and Arturo took a chance, just like we did. They left pushed me to meet my goals.” their hometown and friends and have faced challenges, just It was the decade of the mini-skirt. Her older brother for- like we have. They’re developing friendships with Mexicans bade her to buy one. “My grandmother had an elegant bed- and expats. But they’re not that unusual. Mexicans from all spread. I cut off enough to sew a skirt, vest and a small hat. over The Republic have moved to La Paz, some for business Then I placed the cut side of the bedspread toward the wall, reasons, others to retire and enjoy what all of us desire: the in order to hide my deed. I sewed the fabric in secret. On weather, the sea, and the slower pace. But most importantly, the weekend I snuck out wearing my new outfit. When I got we’re fulfilling our creative urge to design our futures in a home, my grandmother was waiting. Angry. I got hit often new place. and was told to forget my crazy dreams and learn how to be a housewife.”
The Baja Citizen 14 November 2015 Scientists from Expedition Vaquita 2015 Document Sighting of Two Vaquita Porpoises
Mexico is one of the most biologically In recent years, its population has diverse countries in the world. Despite declined mainly because of the com- occupying only 1% of the surface of the bination of fishing gear and the illegal earth, it is home to over 10% of the spe- fishing of totoaba, currently in great de- cies that inhabit it. Many of them are mand in Asian markets, which pay high endemic, meaning that they only exist prices for its swim bladder. in our territory. In early 2014, the Secretariat of Two clear examples of this endem- Environment and Natural Resources ic natural wealth are the vaquita and (SEMARNAT) and the National Com- totoaba, both residents of the northern mission of Aquaculture and Fisheries part of the Gulf of California and both (CONAPESCA), together with fish- endangered. ing communities in the Upper Gulf, On October 22, 2015 scientists from designed a program to meet the objec- Expedition Vaquita 2015 successfully tive of conserving the vaquita and the documented the sighting of two vaquita totoaba. porpoises in photos and videos. Docu- The program conducted a study to menting these sightings is extremely estimate the vaquita population more complicated, since vaquitas are shy accurately. The new study has been creatures that avoid boats. called #ExpeditionVaquita2015. So far, The vaquita is the world’s smallest the study has reported sightings of 25 cetacean as well as being the most criti- vaquitas, which has encouraged both cally endangered species. In 2013, the scientists and the authorities. International Committee for the Recov- ery of the Vaquita estimated that fewer Source: SEMARNAT than 100 vaquitas remained and issued a last call to prevent their extinction. Photo F. Sánchez: Pilot whale
November 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 Dorita, Laura, Martha and Celia Welcome Helen to La Paz!
Rainbow and Margie
Eduardo, Zulma and Jose
Fish for lunch!
Girls lunch! Fanlap executive committee Ironman Los Cabos 2015 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 November 2015 Dorita, Laura, Martha and Celia Welcome Helen to La Paz!
Rainbow and Margie
Eduardo, Zulma and Jose
Fish for lunch!
Girls lunch! Fanlap executive committee Ironman Los Cabos 2015 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
November 2015 19 The Baja Citizen Merino Three Casty Artists, Magallon Three Ways to Art
Casty - Music at Twilight TBC
In the exhibition “Merino, Casty, Ma- Jill Casty has returned to La Paz after gallon—Three Artists, Three Ways to a productive and successful year in Italy, Art,” the three prominent Baja artists where her sculptural ensembles of fused present a fascinating merger of their glass and metals were presented in four works and talents. Brought together in solo exhibitions. Her colors—as trans- the show are the paintings and construc- formed in glass, layered and textured, tions of Francisco Merino, the glass full of light and energy—are even more sculptures of Jill Casty, the sculptures brilliant and joyous in response to the and paintings of Lila Magallon. clarity and unique intensity of the light The Exhibition has two opening of the Baja. “I want to explore,” she has night events, Friday, November 13 and written, “an art that finds a harmony Saturday, November 14 from 7 to 10 within the chaos of our modern world. p.m., and will be open Saturday, 11 to 2, An art that is a festival, a celebration. A at the new Galeria Bellaterra (formerly toast, ‘To life.’ ” Her work here conveys Galerias Pax). It then continues at the that spirit with its impressions in ab- Galeria through the holiday season and stracted form of the essences of nature’s into January. At present, the art can be beauty, or with its expressions of her viewed Monday through Saturday 10 emotional responses to moments shared a.m. to 2 p.m. Evening hours will be ar- Magallon sculpture with the natural world. ranged. Call for further information. Lila Magallon—whose work was With this exhibition, the artists want seen here in her large, popular and im- to honor the cultural legacy of Susana pressive retrospective at the Centro Alexander y Santin, the founder of the Cultural La Paz—continues to work in pioneering Galerias Pax. several media, ranging from drawing to Francisco Merino’s work—always sculpting. Whether exploring the figu- bold, changing, dynamic—has been rative or the abstract, she is concerned presented in galleries and cultural cen- with discovering the forms to interpret ters in what he likes to call the “Three who we are, as humans and as individu- Californias.” A notable example was als. Her stone sculptures, small but pow- the broad and challenging retrospective erful, recall ancient primitive forms, yet held at the Galeria Olchoa in La Paz. in their intense focus, whether natural or Often mixing genres, such as painting surrealistic, they are an enigma. They and construction, Merino creates works carry a sense of mystery that is hidden of strong colors, varying in tone with in the stone, is still a part of who we are. his mood and theme, and provocative Whether touching on the primitive or shapes and patterns. These are works the sublime. that move between representation and abstraction, often blurring the distinc- The Galeria Bellaterra is at 1250 Guill- tion between the two approaches. In ermo Prieto, between Cinco de Mayo and both paintings and constructions, he Constitucion, in La Paz. Telephone, 612 finds new ways to turn the everyday 1411004. into a surprise and revelation. Merino - La carta
The Baja Citizen 20 November 2015 Traditional Fishing and Tending Nets
TBC
This summer, without much ado, the photography book Tendiendo Redes (Tending Nets) by Alejandro Rivas was released. Although the book has been out for a few months, the official pre- sentation of the book was held Friday, October 23rd, at Galería Carlos Ola- chea. The book was presented by local photographer and designer Fernando Sánchez as well as by Antonio Avilés, after which the standing-room-only crowd was treated to a slide presenta- tion of Rivas’ photographic work.
Tendiendo Redes is the result of years of work by Rivas. Filled with stun- ning photographs, the book is a photodocumentary of traditional fishing in Baja California Sur: its history, its present state, and some of the challenges traditional fishermen face going forward. If you missed the presentation, however, don’t despair. Tendiendo Redes, with text in both Spanish and Eng- lish, is available at local bookstores – including Allende Books. Also, an ex- hibit of Rivas’ work, along with a presentation by the photographer, is sched- Fernando Sánchez, Alejandro Rivas and Antonio uled for February in the Centro de Artes Populares (Popular Arts Center). Aviles. Photo courtesy of Gabriel Larios Heredia
November 2015 21 The Baja Citizen Throughout this year, to celebrate Cat Respect Day (March 28), we held a phrase contest and, as part of the commemoration activities for Remember Me Thursday (4th Thursday each September), we held a drawing contest; both contests were geared towards our youngest audience. As we did last year, in November we will hold our second Christ- mas Bazaar; our volunteers are working hard knitting, sew- ing and creating all sorts of lovely things to donate, including things for you and your pets. We are currently studying and getting prepared to start a trap-neuter-release (TNR) program in order to keep the stray cat population under control. One of our goals at M.I.A.U. Gatito is to build a Cat Attention Center at La Paz where we can concentrate our efforts, receive groups to share our knowledge and experience regarding cat well-being, and continue working towards building a respectful world. What Is M.I.A.U. Gatito is constantly looking for more volun- teers, friends and sponsors to help us, for without the selfless M.I.A.U. Gatito? labor of our growing family, we could not have achieved so quickly our first milestones.
TBC
Me Interesa Ayudar a Un Gatito (M.I.A.U. Gatito), A.C. is a non-profit association initiated by five professional women who share a love for animals. M.I.A.U. Gatito’s main objective is to contribute to the cul- ture of respect for all life-forms, mainly cats. Our family, of over 15 volunteers and foster families work in four programs: Education, Adoption, Diffusion and Fund- raising.
Since its birth, almost two years ago, M.I.A.U. Gatito has found forever homes for approximately 260 cats, with a suc- cess rate of 58%. With the help of our friends, volunteers and sponsors, we have been able to help heal, neuter and adopt stray cats. In a combined effort to educate and raise funds for our association, in 2014 we held a photo contest and pro- duced M.I.A.U. Gatito’s first (2015) calendar with the win- ning photos. The contest was a raving success, so we repeated this year; our 2016 calendar is under production and should be available in late November.
The Baja Citizen 22 November 2015 BambuFashion Consignment Show
Saturday, November 28th, 2015 4 pm: Pre-show piano music and cocktails 5 pm: Fashion Show Dress code: BLUE/AZUL
@ el angel azul Independencia 518 on the corner of G.Prieto La Paz, BCS 612 156 5578
Tickets available @ el angel azul, Bambu and Allende Books SAVE THE DATE, LADIES! All are welcome to attend the Annual Bambú Consignment Fashion Show, on Saturday, November 28th starting at 4pm with piano music, cocktails and snacks. The main event will start promptly at 5pm. Tickets are available now at Bambú, el ángel azul, and Allende Books. Dress code for the event: Blue! After the fashion show, Bambu will be open for shoppers to look around and buy up their favorites. There will also be a bazaar before and after the show, to help you take some items off your Christmas list. Bambu Consignment Boutique is located on Independen- cia between Prieto and Serdan.
$1 pesocorkage fee Bring your bottle of wine and enjoy it with your favourite meal!
Señor Sushi BCS
Home Delivery Forjadores Centro San Jose 121 33 66 122 34 25 130 79 80
November 2015 23 The Baja Citizen Income and Expenses of the Municipality
by Sandra D. Gaytan
The Mexican republic, officially the Estados Unidos Mexica- gies to increase income and reduce expenses, with the aim of nos, has 31 states and one Federal District. Each of the states improving the municipality’s financial situation. We should is divided into municipalities (the equivalent of a county in remain positive, believing that the new administration will the US), with the number of municipalities per state varying provide efficient services. As Mexican citizens and residents depending on population. Baja California Sur has five munic- of this country, it is our duty to pay the appropriate and fair ipalities: La Paz, Los Cabos, Comondu, Loreto, and Mulegé. taxes. This not only helps resolve the municipality’s financial Like all government entities, the municipalities of Baja struggles, but it also gives us the right to demand excellent- California Sur have both income and expenses. When it quality services from the administration. comes to expenses, the municipalities are responsible for providing basic public services. These include water supply; drainage; sewage collection, treatment and disposal; street Sandra D. Gaytan is a licensed lawyer who lighting; garbage collection; public markets; cemeteries; earned her masters degree in tax law from streets; parks and garden; public safety; and transit police. the Technological University of Mexico in The municipalities also incur expenses from administra- Mexico City. tive areas, such as the Public Registry of Property, Catastro Office, Department of Urban and Ecology Development, Department of Construction Licenses, Social Assistance De- partment, Sports Department, Tourist Department, Culture Department, and Civil Registry. In order to provide the public services listed above, the municipalities must generate income. The income generated is outlined in the Income Law approved by the state congress. The Income Department of the municipality is responsible for collecting the taxes and fees outlined in the Income Law. The municipality of La Paz collects the following tax- es and fees: property taxes; acquisition tax on real estate transactions; tax on public entertainment and shows; tax on games, raffles, and lotteries; fees to obtain a driver’s license, renewal of license plates, as well as transit fines and tickets; registration fees to record a public deed at the Public Registry of Property; fees for any paperwork authorized at Catastro Office, such as appraisals, subdivisions, fusions, surveys and manifestations; fees to obtain a construction permit; fees to obtain a municipal permit to run a business; fees to set up a water service contract and the regular monthly water bill; fees to obtain a Certificate of Freedom of Liens and Certifi- cates of No Taxes Owed; fees paid to the Civil Registry for registration of births, deaths and marriages. This may seem like a long list of fees and taxes being col- lected. Remember, however, that the municipality also has a long list of expenses. In the last few years, the municipality of La Paz has been in dire straits financially. The municipality has been struggling to cover its expenses, especially to cover the payroll expense for municipal employees. The reality is that the municipality has been running in the red. Expenses have far outstripped income. A new mayor and his party have just taken office. In the last few weeks, they have implemented measures and strate-
The Baja Citizen 24 November 2015 Antique and Classic Car Show and Parade
By Manuel Amarillas
The Gala del Auto Antiguo y Clásico 2015 will be held Saturday, November 28th and Sunday, the 29th and will fea- ture vehicles that span almost a century: from a 1917 Model T and 1953 Chevro- let pickup. Local car agencies will also be showcasing their 2016 line-ups. The show will have cars competing in three categories with the 1st category awarding the best original or restored car. The 2nd category is for best modi- fied cars and the 3rd category is an open one for all makes and models. The event is for the whole family and all are welcome to come and take photos along side their favorite model. Enjoy the fall weather and the malecon in this annual event.
The parade of classic cars along the malecon takes place on Saturday, starting at 5 p.m. from Héroes del 47 to Rosales and back to Bravo Street. The event continues Sunday at the kiosko on the malecon and 16 de Septiembre from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. for viewing and picture taking of classic treasures.
For more information, call 612-141-8554 or e-mail [email protected].
November 2015 25 The Baja Citizen S-h-h-h-h •A self-winding, lady’s Jennifer Lo- Jennifer Lopez wrist watch By Carol Dyer pez wrist watch – NEW Donated by Carol Dyer Silence is golden! That’s right! With- This is just a sampling of out a word, using only the stroke of your •Two for the price of one, four-day the many prizes that will be pen, you can be the winner of something trip to Magdalena Bay during the Cali- available. To win one of shiny and new or maybe something old fornia Grey Whale migration, includ- and treasured. It’s up to you. Yes, it ing sea turtle conservation, mangrove these or other exceptional is time for the annual Subasta to raise exploration, gourmet cuisine and more. items, you need only outbid much needed funds to support the many Courtesy of RED Travel Mexico. the last bidder, keeping in programs of FANLAP. This year’s event will take place on Sunday, De- •Champagne brunch for up to six mind that items will have a cember 6, 2015 from 10 until 4 p.m. at people, featuring Casa Tuscany’s re- minimum initial bid and a El Mangle, located at the foot of Sinaloa nowned Aebleskivers. minimum raise. Payment is Street and the waterfront. There is lots Donated by Casa Tuscany Inn. of parking and admission is free. accepted in pesos (sorry, no In addition to the good food, great •A hand-crafted bank shaped like an credit cards), and items are music, and bargains to be found every- elephant and filled with pesos and a few to be claimed the same day where, this year’s event will include a US coins. 50/50 raffle and a Silent Auction. Here Courtesy of many that contributed unless arranged in advance are some of the things you could win: their small change. for later pick-up.
•Homedics foot massage/foot soak More donations are being accepted. (rarely used) including everything for If you have a treasure that you are ready the perfect pedicure. to part with, please drop it off at the Ma- rina de la Paz office or to Carol Dyer at •Everything for a day at the beach Casa Tuscany before December 1. Your including sand chair, umbrella, beach contribution is greatly appreciated. towels, and an ice chest filled with bev- As for the 50/50 raffle, tickets are erages. selling for 20 pesos each or 6 for 100. The winner receives 50% of whatever •A one-week stay in a Villa La Posa- is collected while the other 50% goes to da condo, fully furnished and offering FANLAP. 24-hour security, Jacuzzi, lap pool, and So take home a boat load of money more. (not even dingy size), an elephant (guar- Courtesy of Jerry and Michelle anteed to fit in your car), or a treasure Gaylord you just have to have. What will you Elephant and filled with pesos and a few take home? US coins
The Baja Citizen 26 November 2015 Give Me Shelter: How to Donate Safely
By Susan Fogel
What a strange title for an article! a call went out for blankets or mattresses In reality, not so strange. There are so for kids living in the worst conditions. many aspects of life in La Paz where The foreign community responded gen- money can make a difference. And there erously, risking the suspension of their are so many people asking for donations cars and trucks to deliver the most basic and claiming to be responsible organi- of items, a bed to sleep on and a blanket zations. And the expat community is to sleep under. generous to those in need in their ad- This was not a formal charity. This opted country. was an urgent response to a desperate As we head into the holidays, every need. This group posted pictures online organization in town from the police, of the families receiving the goods. No firemen, Red Cross, and many others one thought about asking for a receipt. Susan Fogel is an observer of life will be asking for donations. No one doubted that these goods would and writes to tell you what she sees. But how can you know when you make it to the barrios. But there was Visit her blog mexicomusings.com pass along your pesos, that the child, transparency; the photos told the story. senior, dog, or environmental group is But when you hand over your pesos, going to get the money? How will you if the recipient charity will not give you PLACES TO GIVE: know that if the group in question does a receipt, do not let the money leave These are three examples of registered in the end receive your money that they your hot little hand. If the charity will non-profits in La Paz and the U.S. will apply it to the area of their need that not give you a receipt, don’t give them you specified? your money! International Community Foundation Well, there are two words that gov- Make sure that you know who is www.icfdn.org ern ethical charities: disclosure and really asking for the money. At certain qualifies recipient charities transparency. times of the year the Red Cross will offers 501(c) (3) status to vetted groups Disclosure, on the simplest level, have armies of school kids stationed can be a receipt with the telephone num- on street corners and standing on topes Fundacion Ayuda Ninos de La Paz ber, RFC number (tax ID), and address (speed bumps) with their white buckets (FANLAP) of the organization. Disclosure means emblazoned with the familiar red logo. www.lapazninos.org that when a donor asks, the recipient The containers are locked. The logo is offers hot breakfast and scholarships will tell them how their donation will be recognizable. The kids will slap a Red spent. Disclosure also means that if re- Cross sticker on your windshield. This BajaDogs Inc. quested, the charity will open its books is safe giving. If you want a receipt, ask www.bajadogslapaz.org to the donor. for one, and they will tell you how to get offers funds and a donation platform Disclosure does not mean showing one. There are also people dressed in to dog rescue groups that have been donor lists and amounts. But just as in white standing on topes and looking like properly qualified. any business it will show cash in, cer- nurses in white with red trim, they are tain line items including staff salaries, NOT the Red Cross. They do not have and other expenditures. locked containers. For information on more charities of Transparency means NO SECRETS. all kinds working in La Paz If you choose a dog shelter, for exam- visit www.icfdn.org ple, and you earmark your donation to Be generous this season and spay and neuter only, or to house a diffi- all year. But be aware of cult-to-adopt dog, then the shelter must to whom you are donating, show you, if requested, the vet and food receipts for those services, as applied to and make sure that your those issues. money will be used for the There are often urgent calls to help charitable work. Susan Fogel the poorest of the poor. One cold winter
November 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 Please note that there is also a 20% discount on your pre- property taxes early? vious year’s property tax bill for those years that have not The city of La Paz has announced its temporary tax dis- been paid as well as a 50% discount on all fines and late count program for the months of October and November charges. Both of these discounts will be honored until De- 2015. cember 31st, 2015. This temporary discount will run until the end of the No- Also, you can head to the city of La Paz webpage www. vember 2015. If you pay your 2016 property taxes before lapaz.gob.mx to make your payment on-line. Payments on- November 30th, 2015, in one payment, you will receive a line help you avoid the sometimes-long line-ups that can be 30% discount on the total amount as well as an additional 5% found at the end of the month. On-line payments can be done discount. The municipality of La Paz offices are located on safely from your own home computer. 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.
The Baja Citizen 28 November 2015 What is a CURP? TBC
Have you been asked for your CURP number at a govern- ment office and you don’t know what it is?
CURP = Clave Única de Registro de Población, is a unique identity code for both citizens and residents of Mexico.
It is needed for obtaining most government services in- cluding opening a bank account and getting a drivers license. You can obtain your CURP from any electronic device with Internet access, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Need to consult and/or print your CURP? At gob.mx, you can do so online from any electronic device with Internet access. Visit http://www.gob.mx/tramites/ficha/consulta-e-im- presion-de-la-curp/SEGOB175 and consult and/or print your Single Population Registration Code (CURP) just by print- ing your personal data as they appear in your birth certificate. It is very simple! With gob.mx, you can complete this process without hav- ing to visit a government office, 24 hours a day seven days a week, from any electronic device. Simply by providing your personal data, you can check and print your CURP as often as you need. gob.mx is the government’s single portal where you can find information on the procedures most commonly required by citizens.
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November 2015 29 The Baja Citizen 5th Annual SUP Races La Paz
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Don’t miss out on the fun! On Sunday, November 29th, the 5th Annual SUP Races La Paz will take place. The fun starts at 8:00 a.m. on the malecón and 5 de Mayo, in front of Hark- er Board Co.
There are categories for men, women, and children, as well as a team relay race with a minimum of one woman per team. There is no entrance fee, as it really is a day the whole family can take part in and enjoy SUP! To enter, all you need to do is head over to Harker Board and sign up for the big day.
Harker Board Co. has been organizing the event for the past five years with the help of local sponsors who supply Kids SUP Race. Photo courtesy of Jeanne Walker prizes for the winners of each event. What is SUP? SUP stands for Stand Up Paddle. It is the enjoying SUP in the Bay of La Paz. latest, greatest way to paddle through the clear, beautiful So whether you have experience with SUP or are just a waters of Baja California Sur. It is also the fastest growing beginner, the 5th Annual SUP Races La Paz is calling you to water sport in the world. have some fun! Paddleboards are available for participants Bryon Harker, the event organizer, feels SUP is an im- portant sport to practice – not only as a tourist or recreational attraction, but also as a way of staying healthy throughout a lifetime. He recalls that when he moved to La Paz seven years ago, he was nearly the only one practicing the sport. But gradually, the number of participants has increased. To- day, Bryon says, you can see up to 30 people every day out
Harker Board Co. is located at Alvaro Obregon No 299 (north end of the malecón) between 5 de Mayo and Callejon Constitucion. Tel. 612 122 7661. For more in- formation, visit www.facebook.com/HARKERBOARD- coSUPandRESTAURANTBAR SUP Racing on the Malecon. Photo courtesy of Jeanne Walker
The Baja Citizen 30 November 2015 San José del Cabo-Cabo San Lucas What Is Highway Inaugurated Buen Fin? TBC
November and December are crazy months here in La Paz. Christmas shop- ping seems to be starting earlier and earlier each year and while out running errands the past few weeks, I noticed people are already filling up their shop- ping carts with holiday goodies. Speaking of goodies, you would have definitely noticed shoppers enjoy- ing Buen Fin, as it has become one of the craziest retail weekends in the coun- try.
Carlos Mendoza Davies at the inauguration of the San Jose - Cabos San Lucas highway
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President Enrique Peña Nieto was in Baja California Sur to inaugurate the More and better new San José del Cabo- Cabo San Lucas infrastructure strengthens highway with Governor Carlos Men- the state’s natural vocation, In 2001, the Mexican federal govern- doza Davis. ment, along with the private sector, has The infrastructure project involves as in the case of Baja come up with the initiative called “Buen an investment of 2.5 billion pesos, is California Sur, which offers Fin” (Good Weekend), similar to Black 38.7 kilometers long and will benefit the most competitive range Friday in the US. It took place over the 238,000 residents of the municipalities weekend of November 13th-16th. Dis- of La Paz and Los Cabos. of tourist services. To this counts of up to 60% were said to be This highway is part of the key in- end, the government is available at participating merchants in frastructure works to support tourism in working in conjunction 200 cities across Mexico. Baja California Sur, whose importance Officials hope Buen Fin will boost lies in: with local governments to domestic consumption for the holiday • Boosting tourism and trade be- make tourism a permanent season and are using the marketing tween San Jose and Cabo San Lucas. source of well-being and scheme to kick off Christmas shopping • Halving travel time between the and the December shopping binge. two, from 40 to 17 minutes. development for Baja In La Paz, several businesses hung • Improving mobility between Los California Sur and Mexico Buen Fin signs in their storefronts in Cabos International Airport and the as a whole. hopes of luring shoppers inside. Box state’s tourist destinations including La stores including Home Depot, Sears, Paz and Todos Santos. Liverpool and Office Max all offered discounts on merchandise including big screen TVs and computers. Smaller re- tailers also promoted stiff discounts on selected merchandise.
November 2015 31 The Baja Citizen Facts About Arsenic
by Chris Salter
Recent rumors of elevated levels of arsenic in the La Paz- per billion. Even so, numerous studies focused on the long- area municipal water supply have some people concerned. As term effects of regular consumption of trace levels of arsenic such, the risks of drinking water with elevated levels of arse- show that even levels below WHO’s established MCL have nic should be addressed. Following is some basic information adverse effects. A Columbia University study reported that about arsenic and how it can affect your health. school children from three different districts in Maine who Arsenic is a highly toxic, naturally-occurring element were exposed to drinking water containing arsenic levels be- found throughout nature. It is found in the air, soil, food, and low the WHO MCL showed lower scores on IQ tests. The water. Long before arsenic was recognized as an element in performance loss reported was considered comparable to the 1649, arsenic compounds were known to be toxic. Nero used studies of the effects of lead exposure. arsenic to poison Britannicus in 55 AD in order to secure the A Massachusetts Institute of Technology study found Roman throne. In 17th-century France, white arsenic was that the children of mothers whose water supplies were con- know as poudre de succession (inheritance powder). Arsenic taminated with arsenic during pregnancy had gene expres- can accumulate in the body over time. Exposure to even very sion changes that might likely lead to cancer and other dis- low amounts is dangerous. eases later in life. Arsenic consumption has been linked to The World Health Organization (WHO) has established a a number of adverse health effects, including skin, bladder, Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for arsenic of 10 parts and lung cancer. Chronic arsenic poisoning may take years to develop. Being at the top of the food chain may have some advan- tages. However, avoiding exposure to arsenic is not one of them. Animals exposed to arsenic in their food will pass that arsenic on. For example, arsenic has routinely been added to chicken feed to prevent certain types of microbial growth. When these chickens are consumed by humans, we consume the arsenic along with the chicken. Further, droppings from these chickens are sold as a fertilizer which is popular with rice farmers. This has resulted in elevated levels of arsenic in rice. The good news is that not all naturally-occurring arsenic poses a potential health threat. Some arsenic compounds are so insoluble that very little can find its way into the water supply. So what is the bottom line? What is a “safe” level of arse- nic exposure? The answer is ZERO. Unfortunately, there is no guarantee that water suppliers will ever be required to deliver water at the tap which con- tains zero arsenic. This can be accomplished only through filtration, a task that is up to the consumer.
Editor’s note: The above report was abridged by Chris Salter of La Paz-based H2O Professionales Internacionales S.A de C.V. The full technical paper, written by Charles Michaud, can be found at www.aguadebaja.com. LABORATORIOSLABORATORIOS DEDE ANÁLISISANÁLISIS CLÍNICOSCLÍNICOS
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