1 March 2015 “Mazatlan’s Most Trusted Independent Magazine & Visitors’ Guide” Recommended by The Chicago Tribune Volume Number VII March 2015 97.3 Millions Hits S e r v i n g M a z a t l a n 2 2 1 9 9 2 - 2 0 1 4 Anniversary The Pacific Pearl loves our Earth, this newspaper is made from recycled paper mazatlan’s pacific pearl MAZATLAN: Buy, Sell and Trade. (Non-commercial Classifieds Only) mazatlan’s pacific pearl MAZATLAN: Buy, Sell and Trade. (Non-commercial Classifieds Only) Let’s take a Tour with your favorite restaurant and Njoy Sugar Substitutes. (details page 2) S P O N S O R S : S P O N S O R S :
Transcript
1March 2015
“Mazatlan’s Most Trusted Independent Magazine & Visitors’ Guide”Recommended by The Chicago Tribune
Volume Number VII March 201597.3 Millions Hits
Serving Mazatlan
221992-2014Anniversary
The Pacific Pearl loves our Earth, this newspaper is made from recycled paper
mazatlan’s pacific pearlMAZATLAN: Buy, Sell and Trade. (Non-commercial Classifieds Only)
mazatlan’s pacific pearlMAZATLAN: Buy, Sell and Trade. (Non-commercial Classifieds Only)
Canadian superstar Joan Kennedy returns for another great show
BRENSTER
By Jody SandeRSon
Canadian artist Joan Kennedy is returning to Mazatlán, by popular demand. Her sold out
show last year created such a buzz, and was such a hit, that those fortunate enough to see her, asked that The Brenster and Carrum Show invite her back.
“It’s an absolute pleasure to welcome Joan and her band back to Mazatlán,” says Brenster. “We had so much fun last season, and the audience just loved her. She is a true professional in every sense of the word.”
Kennedy is looking forward to her return to the Pearl of the Pacific, especially after a busy year of touring and recording.
“It’s been a busy year on the east coast,” says Joan. “I’ve been travelling throughout the Maritimes on my acoustic tour since April. It’s been such a wonderful time; seeing old friends and making new ones along the way.”
The response from the tour has been so great that it’s given Joan the inspiration she’s needed to record a new album in 2015.
“I’m so excited about it. Since I’ve been getting back to my roots, I’ve decided the album should be called the same, My Roots, and it has nothing to do with my hair colour,” laughs this cool blonde.
For those not familiar with this Canadian superstar, Kennedy is the recipient of 7 CCMAs (Canadian Country Music Awards), has won four CMT (Country Music Televi-sion) awards including one for Best International Country Music Video, Best Country album, Best Fema-le Country Artist and Best Country Single.
She has also been nominated for two JUNO awards, has recorded six albums (two with major label MCA) and has starred in seven music videos. This talented musician has also hosted her own syndicated Canadian televi-sion show and performed in film. Du-ring the nineties, Joan ranked second only to Garth Brooks as Canada’s most played country musical artist!
Joan had a great time last year, and has sung Mazatlán’s praises sin-ce, which is one of the most wonder-ful things about the Country Concert Series.
“The audience here experiences world class entertainment and the artists return north to spread the word about what an amazing place Mazatlán is,” adds Brenster. “The Tou-rism Board and the Mazatlán Hotel Association are seeing that hundreds of additional room nights have been booked for this season’s series. And Joan is one powerful reason why.”
“What I found when I got here, was a community of people that made me feel like I was home,” says Joan. “Brent has done such a wonderful job building a rapport with the folks of Mazatlán, that THIS was my favourite thing about last year’s trip. Of cour-se the views didn’t hurt, but the fans are truly what make Mazatlán warmer
than the sun. Great times with great people!”
And this year, Joan and her band are adding some sightseeing they didn’t get to do last time. Keep your eyes peeled for this Canadian superstar anywhere from Stone Island, to the Plaza Machado and definitely the Market downtown!
“And if there’s a chance,” adds Joan, “I’d love to sing on the beach around an open fire with the locals, just like home, just like being back to My Roots.”
Joan Kennedy and her band will be performing with The Brenster and Carrum Show, Friday March 13, 2015 at the beautiful Playa Mazatlán! Get your tickets soon…they won’t last long.
“What I found when I got here, was a community of people that made me feel like I was home,”
ADVERTORIAL
“The truth is on the march and nothing will stop it.” - Emile Zola
5March 2015“March on. Do not tarry. To go forward is to move toward perfection.” - Khalil Gibran
Tuesday 3: ArtWalk's 10th Year Anniversary Exhibition and Celebration. This is a group exhibit featuring artists who have participated in ArtWalk for the past ten years. Free, 7 p.m. CH Friday 6: First Friday ArtWalk, 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. Free self-guided art tour in Centro. Mazatlan's ArtWalk offers 46 artists in 23 locations who happily display paintings, drawings, prints, photographs, jewellery and all things creative. To plot your route: http://www.artwalkmazatlan.comFriday 13: Joan Kennedy Band. Presented by The Brenster & Carrum Show Country Concert Series. Joan is an award winning country artist and the Brenster adds, “she is an amazing entertainer, with great songs and an incredible voice and personality that makes every person in the audience feel special.” Hotel Playa Mazatlan, 6 p.m., $500 includes buffet, open bar and the show.Sunday 15: Latin America on the Wings of Song. The trio, Canto Altano, take you on a musical journey through Latin America. They’ve invited three
Arts & Entertainment Calendar All amounts are in pesos
http://mazatlanlife.comCome and celebrate all the wonderful events of the 4th Annual International Week, Monday March 16 – Sunday March 22.
(The Angela Peralta Theater (APT) is located on Carnaval, in Centro; the box office is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Expect to pay in pesos, but call ahead – 982-4446. El Recreo (ER) is located on Constitución #209. Casa Haas (CH) is located on the corner of Heriberto Frias and Mariano Escobedo. Things change, new events get added, keep connected and current by visiting MazatlanLife.com often.)
Monday 16: Street Fiesta! Ebano rocks the streets of Las Garzas – between Camaron Sabalo and Playa Gaviotas. This event is designed to introduce you to all the terrific restaurants and bars in the Golden Zone. It’s free entrance and all the dancing you can swing. Suki will show you the moves. While you rock away the afternoon you are invited to purchase beer, wine, water, tequila and different foods from local restaurants. Full access, no ticket required, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.Tuesday 17: Global Art Project (GAP) Exhibit. This international group of artists (mixed media, textile, photography and collage) have been invited to display their work during International Week. The six artists are: Chaewon Laura Oh, South Korea, (absent); Lorna Crane, Australia (absent); Joan Stennick US; Carl Heyward, US; Vered Gerztenjorn, Israel (absent); Akiko Suziki, Japan. Everyone is invited to meet the three artists at the free inauguration exhibit, 7 p.m. - Museo de Arte ( in Centro, the corner of Sixto Osuna and Venustiano Carranza) Wednesday 18: Ranch Fiesta. This is an authentic Mexican fiesta that takes place at Rancho Los Limones, 20 minutes from Mazatlan. The Vega family bought the land in 1850 and slowly added a mezcal factory and a beautiful hacienda. It's now been owned by the Vegas for over 100 years. Your $450 ticket includes transportation to
the ranch (pick-up at La Chupiteria, the old Canucks, on Olas Altas at 12:30 p.m., returns by 4:30 p.m); beer, Margaritas, and a fabulous bbq cooked by Chef Diego (El Presidio). There will be live music, dancing horses and so much more! Last year was a
sell-out so be sure to call Marcella de la Vega, 669 116 9798, to reserve your ticket, or call Simon Lynds, 669 994 1872.Thursday March 19: Little Nell and the Mortgage Foreclosure. This delightful melodrama is presented by the Mazatlan Film and Theatre Group and is designed for all ages. You are invited to boo the villain and cheer the hero; Nell Pureheart and her wise old Auntie Nora are about to lose the family homestead to unscrupulous banker Wiley Whiplash. The mortgage will be forgiven if Nell marries Wiley. Will Nell marry Wiley? Hiss and cheer as the not very bright Casey Cleandeed arrives to save the day. Only room for 80 people at Casa Haas, please reserve online www.mazact.com and pick up your ticket at Casa Haas on the night of. It’s free, but you must have a ticket. (closer to the date, the box office of the Angela Peralta will have some tickets available too.) 7 p.m. Casa Haas.Friday 20: Art Workshop with three artists from the Global Art Project, GAP – Carl Heyward, US; Joan Stennick, US; Akiko Suziki, Japan. This is a free hands-on demo for people interested in mixed-media, collage, painting, quilt making. It starts at 10 a.m. in the Museo de Arte patio. Workshop finishes at 2 p.m. Space is limited, please call Glen Rogers to reserve, 669 933 8005.
Saturday 21: The annual celebration of the spring equinox at Las Labradas. Explore the 4000 year-old petroglyphs of this fascinating archeological site. Organizers have requested you wear white and the buses depart from La Chupiteria (the old Canucks) on Olas Altas at 8:30 a.m. To celebrate the sun, the energy and this spiritual ground you will be expected to form a circle holding hands – a kumbaya moment. Phone the experienced tour guides at Sinaloa Adventures -191 2005 to make your reservation and to confirm pricing and the different packages. This does sell out early.Sunday March 22: The Annual Beach Fest! is taking place this year at the Baraka Beach Club, next to the RIU, Marina Mazatlan from 1 p.m. until 6 p.m. Your all access ticket, $150, buys you listening rights to five top bands: Sky, Kameleon, Salty Feet, Rock Creek and Kannon. Drink tickets will also be provided: dollar drafts, $25 Margaritas, $25 glass of wine, $20 for soft drinks. Hungry? You’ll want to bite into one of the many sausages the European Sausage Kitchen is cooking up – it’s not included in your ticket, but the price is right and these dogs and sausages taste soooo good.
guest musicians who will perform and all will share interesting music notes on the unique instruments being used. $130, reserve online, www.mazact.com, or buy 30 minutes prior to performance, 3 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. ERSunday 22 and Monday 23: Playreading, Occupant. The Mazatlan Film & Theater actors approach Edward Albee’s play, Occupant, in a slightly unorthodox way. $130, reserve online, www.mazact.com, Sun. at 3 p.m., Mon. at 7 p.m. ERSunday 29: Rocky Whatule and Bubba Bradley: Presented by the Mazatlan Comedy Club. Rocky is the current host of “Hollywood Rockin Wrap Up” and this accomplished comedian lives by his motto – “you have to mature; you don’t have to grow up.” Bubba was voted class clown in high school. He’s still proud of that honour and draws upon his dysfunctional, nomadic family for material. Hotel Playa Mazatlan, 5:30 p.m. $500 includes buffet, open bar and the show.
E.G. Brady, Christine Yerbic, MazatlanLife, The Love Doctors, Dr. Steven Backman, C. Michaels,
Eduardo Rodríguez, Adriana Toledo, Rodrigo Llausás and Roberto
González.Office: Av.Camaron Sabalo #2601 Local 11, Sabalo Country. (below Los Zarapes Rest.)
Tel/Fax: 913-0117, 913-4411(Hours 10-5pm)
Pacific PearlPacific Pearlwww.pacificpearl.com
GENERAL INFORMATIONThe deadline for ads, classifieds, articles, and letters to the editor is on or before the 15th of each month for the edition ahead in order to be
considered for the paper.We have the right to reject or edit all submissions and ads as we see fit.Editorial Pacific Pearl S.A. de C.V. is published monthly by Mazatlan´s Pacific Pearl, Michael J. Veselik, Reg. 540998, Publisher, since 1992.Total or partial reproduction of any of the contents herein is strictly prohibited. All rights reserved under International and Pan American
copyright conventions. Opinions expressed in articles in this paper are not necessarily those of the Publisher. The Publisher is not responsible
for contents of advertisements in this paper.
Brenster
Mazatlan Life
Important Information
Welcome to Mazatlán
Reasons Salon Spa
The Ahh of Mazatlán...
Cooking in México
Meat Aside
Restaurant Guide
Act like you live here
Mazatlán Map
Dr. Steven Backman
The Love Doctors
Stranger in Paradise
Make me an Offer
Org. & Donations
Letter to the Editor
Read before buying
Mazatlán Tourist Tips
Fishing Report
Tide Chart Calendar
Back Page Classifieds
CONTENTS4
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8
9
11
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12
12
13-16
17
18-19
20
21
22
23
24
26
28
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26
TOURIST SAFETYMaz Tourism Office DA for Tourists
POLICEEmergency Assistance Tourist Police & others Traffic Police (Tránsito) State Police Federal Highway Police
UTILITIESWater (Jumapam) Electricity (CFE) Gas Leaks
RED CROSS Emergency
FIRE DEPARTMENT(Av. Gabriel Leyva) (Av. Insurgentes) from cell phone
GOVERNMENT DEPTSPort Captain
Immigration Office City Hall Customs Office Airport Police Municipal Bus Civil Registry (Marriage)
W hat’s up with some foreigners selling all kinds of food in all kinds of places other than
legitimate restaurants? Are the vendors legal? Some are and most are not. I am not talking about the one- or two-day charity events that actually help the REAL cause, or Mexican Nationals, registered business aliens, or anyone in particular.
Some pensioned foreigners, illegal northern aliens and semi-registered owner/ bakers (with illegals working out of their house/condo/trailer) have been selling pies, sausages, perogies, pulled pork, shepherd’s pie, vegetables, soups, pastas, pasties, smoked pork shanks, cookies, seafood, etc on an everyday basis. The illegal cottage industry brings in big bucks for some, even if is part-time. It adds up fast.(Example:$100 pesos for a dozen perogies minus $20 pesos for cost to make equals $80 pesos profit each, 100 sales per day equals $8,000 profit, 3 different markets per week equals $24,000 times 4 weeks, times 5 months equals $480,000 free and clear, without taxes or employee and benefits.) Could you live on half?
It is important to realize how much is at stake for the local legal businesses. Abiding by the rules adds to their operating costs, and illegal sales of food don’t help. Have you noticed how many restaurants have gone out of business recently? Taxes, social security, accounting, salaries and dealing with the bureaucracy is expensive and time consuming. And then there is the liability factor. Who is responsible if a customer gets sick or something? An illegal kitchen that has
not been checked out by the Sanitary Commission and has no liability insurance? One way to check if a business is legit is to ask for a receipt. And it’s not just food, watch out for fishing trips, tours, airport transportation, real estate, timesharing, property management and even panhandling, to name a few. For bigger purchases, please read the print, get an invoice, an address, a phone number, a real name, a contract and an agreement before you purchase. Determine if and when you get your money back if not satisfied.
Legitimate businesses, including hot dog carts, taco vendors, jewelry vendors, pen sellers and beach vendors, they all have permits. Not long ago the city decided that the cultural tents from Oaxaca/Michoacán were not invited to come back, in order to protect local businesses. Hell, even the non-profit charities have to abide by law. Cottage industries (or any business that receives even one peso) need permits from the Departments of Immigration, Hacienda (revenue), and Sanitation, as well as City Hall.
Not convinced, let’s take half of the $480,000, $240,000 and divide that by $75 pesos (the minimum wage of a Mexican worker) and that equals 3,200 days of minimum wages and taxes and benefits, not realized...(8.7 years.) What’s next? Chicles sales? Watch out kids!!!...
Just saying, please don’t eat “under the table”… “SAVE OUR RESTAURANTS”
SALUDOS Michael
(MAJOR BUS ROUTES NOW ON MAP)
This month’s cover is a creation by the photographer well known as “El Pata Salada”.Check out his work on his facebook.
March Cover
TEMPLO DE CRISTO REYCañonero Tampico y Germán Evers, Tel. 985-1604TEMPLO DE LA SAGRADA FAMILIACisne #2 Fracc. Gaviotas Tel. 913 0340 y 913 5034, English Services at 8:50 a.m. on sun-day from november to april.THE VINEYARD CHURCHEnglish Services, Sundays at 9 a.m., La Viña Culto Español, Dom. 11 am Tel. 916-5114 See the ad.IGLESIA CRISTIANA CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH5 de Mayo y Melchor Ocampo Centro, English Services Sun. at 9:00 a.m., Tel. 985-1607 November through AprilCATEDRAL BASÍLICABenito Juárez y Canizales Tel. 981-3352
CRISTO REDENTOR LUTERANOCarvajal #1205 Sur Centro. 5:00 p.m Español, Tel. 981-3636IGLESIA ADVENTISTA DEL 7o. DÍARío Evora y Trop. de Cáncer. Col. Estero. Tel. 985-2511CHURCH OF CHRISTJuan de la Barrera #1401, Col. Olimpica Tel. 668-3159, Sunday 10-12, Wednesday 5KINGDOM HALL OF JEHOVAH WITNESSESAv. de la Marina No. 899, Sat. 3 p.m., Tues. 6 p.m., Tel. 988-0799 / Centro Sun-day 10 a.m., Av. Cuauhtemoc 1410, Col. Burócratas, 669-150-5567EJÉRCITO DE SALVACIÓN / SALVATION ARMYSun. 12 p.m., Gutiérrez Nájera #514 Ote. Tel. 982-3453 Capt. Eric Ramírez Cel. 669 189 3300
IGLESIA PRESBITERIANA “SION”Coromuel 232, Playa Sur Tel: 985-0308Servicios Dominicales: 11:30 am & 6 pmSAN JUDAS TADEOAv. Mojarra #55 Fracc. Sábalo Country Club, 8:45 am English Mass Tel. 916-6246LA IGLESIA DE JESUCRISTO DE LOS SANTOS DE LOS ULTIMOS DÍAS Sun. 11am - 2pm Dr. Rafael Domínguez #401 Col. Palos Prietos, Tel. 982-8396NEW APOSTOLIC CHURCHSunday 10 a.m. Col. Francisco Villa, Tel. 983-9716HAR ZION CHRISTIAN MESSIANIC CONGREGATIONSat. 5p.m. Cerro Boludo 109. Lomas de Mazatlán. Cell (6691) 48-77-30. www.harzionweb.org
Welcome to Mazatlán, the Pearl of the Pacific, where the average temperature
hovers around 82°F/28°C, the sun shines every day, and outdoors is the place to be. The activities this city has to offer will appeal to everyone. Here on the Sea of Cortéz, Mazatlán’s coastline beckons you to stroll along its numerous beaches, or its 10 kms of Malecón—seawall, or to hike t o El Faro—lighthouse, the first highest natural lighthouse in the world.Beaches – All beaches in México are federal property up to high tide lines, and thus, public. Most of our beaches have lifeguards for your protection and warning flags that indicate by their color the condition of the water. Swimmers should know:BEACH SPORTS—try them all: parasail, kayak, boogie board, sail on a catamaran, jet ski, banana boat, shore fish, swim, bodysurf, play beach volleyball...or laze the day away under a palapa. Do as much or as little as you want. In the area of the Golden Zone: Playa Sábalos: Sábalo beach is on the north side of Valentino’s nightclub (castlelike structure). Playa Gaviotas extends from Hotel Playa Mazatlán to El Cid Mega Resort.In the area of the Hotel Zone, you will see three islands rising offshore. Las Tres Islas: Wolf, Deer and Bird islands. Deer Island (center) has a small beach with great tide pools for snorkeling and can be accessed by boat cruises or catamaran.Isla de la Piedra – Stone Island is located at the southern end of the city and is actually a península but is easily accessible by taking a water taxi from the harbor. This is a laid-back destination where you can walk, horse ride, or rent an ATV to explore the miles of undeveloped beaches, or hang out in one of the several open-air restaurants.Olas Altas means high waves.Located in Centro Histórico Old Town, Olas Altas is the starting point for the Malecón, the city’s seaside walkway and continues for 10 kms, up to Valentino’s. Shops, galleries and restaurants offer art, silver, souvenirs and great food.Playa Los Pinos: Between the Marine House and Fisherman’s Monument. Local fishermen sell their daily catches here in the early morning or late afternoon.Playa Norte: North of Playa Los Pinos, Playa Norte is a popular site to watch locals play beach baseball and soccer.Playa Marlin: Along Avenida del Mar. Fresh seafood is served at beachside restaurants.Punta Camarón: The rocky point next to Valentino’s is a favorite with experienced surfers who
love this area’s big crashing waves.North Beaches: Playa Bruja and Punta Cerritos—take any of the buses marked “Cerritos” and you will find these more isolated beaches. Popular with surfers, it is also a great area for relaxing with good open-air restaurants serving delicious seafood.
SIGHTSEEING —Mazatlán is proud of its rich history, as evidenced by the
many monuments throughout the city that have become landmarks to us all. The Fisherman’s Monument is the most prominent, located on Avenida del Mar and Gutierrez Nájera. The Sinaloan Family
looking towards the future, is located near Valentino’s
and was a gift to the city from our famous artist, Antonio Lopez Saenz, at the turn of the century.El Centro – Downtown is the original Mazatlán where you will see neo-classical architecture and the European influence of this port’s early settlers. Take a Sábalo Centro (green) bus that travels from the north of the city to downtown. Visit the Cathedral, Central Market and Plaza Revolución.Centro Histórico –Old Town—Walk a little further south and west of Plaza Revolución and you will find Plazuela Machado and the Ángela Peralta Theater in Centro Histórico, the restored historic center of the city which now extends to many streets with new shops and restaurants. If you continue walking west, toward the sea, you will come to the seaside area known as Olas Altas, Mazatlán’s original tourist zone. Here you can visit the Archeological Museum, the Museum of Art and art galleries. If you are here on the first Friday of the month between November and May, enjoy The Art Walk where you can tour the studios of local artists. Further along Olas Altas, you can watch clavadistas—cliff divers, diving from the rocks into tidal pools.
ACTIVITIESShop the Golden Zone: Handicrafts, silver jewelry, leather clothes, huarache sandals, handmade gold and silver jewelry, Mexican zarapes, hand-painted pottery, talavera flatware, fine wood sculptures, Mexican blankets and so much more are available in the shops of the Golden Zone.
Restaurants & Nightclubs: Enjoy a different restaurant every night
from local, succulent seafood to hot & spicy Mexican dishes to international fine dining. And the nightlife never ends. Happening clubs for those who like to party long and late and romantic dance floors for easy listening and dancing. They´re all here.
Sport Fishing: The local waters are teeming with
swordfish, sailfish, marlin, tuna and dorado. Farther north is the best
fresh water bass fishing in Mexico.
Welcome to MazatlánBEACH FLAGSBeach flags are important and should be adhered to, as they explain how dangerous the waters could be. Remember these safety tips:
Red Flag: Indicates a high hazard for swimming and/or currents.
Green Flag: Indicates a low hazard with calm conditions. Still exercise caution.
Yellow Flag: Indicates a medium hazard for moderate swimming.
White Flag: Indicates the presence of jellyfish. Extreme caution.
GENERAL INFORMATIONThe deadline for ads, classifieds, articles, and letters to the editor is on or before the 15th of each month for the edition ahead in order to be
considered for the paper.We have the right to reject or edit all submissions and ads as we see fit.Editorial Pacific Pearl S.A. de C.V. is published monthly by Mazatlan´s Pacific Pearl, Michael J. Veselik, Reg. 540998, Publisher, since 1992.Total or partial reproduction of any of the contents herein is strictly prohibited. All rights reserved under International and Pan American
copyright conventions. Opinions expressed in articles in this paper are not necessarily those of the Publisher. The Publisher is not responsible
for contents of advertisements in this paper.
“We shall meet again before long to march to new triumphs.” - Giuseppe Garibaldi
“Fernando Valadés Lejarza monument” sculpted by
Pedro Jiménez.
2015 MarchLo
okin
g A
head
April
May 10, Sunday
May 16, Saturday
Mar 29, Monday
Apr 8 to 12 Wed-Sun
Apr 10, Friday
29th International José Limón Dance Festival.
III Muestra de Teatro 2015
Mother’s Day
Mazatlán’s Book Fair 2015At UAS Gymnasium.
Armed Forces Day
Rocky Whatule and Bubba Bradley Stand-up comedy at Venados Showroom at 6pm.
20th Anniversary of Bike Week
Duane Steele performing withThe Brenster and Carrum at The Hotel Playa Mazatlán from 6pm to 10pm. Tickets available at 989-0555.
March
Mar 21-23, Sat-Mon
Mar 22, Sunday
Mar 29 to Apr 5
Mar 1 7, Tuesday
Mar 21, Saturday
Mar 10-11, Tue-Wed
Mar 1, Sunday
Mar 6, Friday
Mar 8, Sunday
Mar 13, FridaySpring Cultural Festival 2015At Mazatlán Institute of Culture.For info call 982 4444
Spring Equinox in Las Labrada.
Holy Week
St. Patrick’s Day 2015
Benito Juárez Birthday
Gourmet Body by Amigos de Delfos at Casa García (El Presidio) at 8pm. Tickets $500 pesos. Limited capacity.
Mazatlán International Week
Sunday Concerts Series at Ángela Peralta Theater. Hot Jazz. Tickets available at 982 4444.
10th Anniversary Artwalk at Centro Histórico from 4 to 8pm.
Daylight Savings Time starts (US)
The Brenster and Carrum Show & Joan Kennedy Band at Hotel Playa Mazatlán at 6 pm. More information: http://countryinmazatlan.com/
Beauty Salon. Just the word “Sa-lon” makes me smile. It repre-sents a day of pampering…
hair, toes, nails, massage, and yes, it can even embody tattoos! There‘s a gem tucked away in the north end of Mazatlán, a growing area called Cerritos.
The name? Reasons Salon ~ Spa.I recently stopped in for a conver-
sation with the owner, Luisa Nolan. Luisa graciously gave me a tour of
her two story salon. The first floor is dedicated to hair styling. Upstairs, there is a room for pedicures and nails, and another for massa-ge and yes, even tattoos. She lit up with pride when descri-bing each feature. The massage bed is made with memory foam for com-fort. She gives the customer a choi-ce of oils or an organic liquid that is a mix of gel and oil. The tattoo bed is new in the last year. I asked her if she had a tattoo. She smiled and said, “Why yes.” She showed me her hand and near the tip of her finger was a tiny tattoo. She said, “A whi-
le back, I was cutting hair and the scissors slipped, cutting my finger. It was deep and took some time to heal. I began to like the mark it made, so I had a tattoo etched over the scar… a tiny happy face, to re-mind me to be joyful and enjoy the moment.”
Several times during our session, Luisa would say, “I want my custo-mers to have a better experience.” She has been trained to analyze her customer’s scalp, feet… so she will look for medical issues. “I will tell my customer if there is a concern, and
advise them to see a doc-tor.” There was a time when a client did go
see a medic based on her analysis. She had a small spot on her skin that was cancerous. It was early sta-ge, so the doctor was able to remove the problem.
Luisa is serious about constantly updating trai-ning for her and all her em-ployees.
Reasons has been open
for four years. At first, the name was Serenity… a comfortable sounding name for sure. Howe-ver, when Luisa
discovered that there were so many bu-sinesses with that name, she worried about her choice. She said to her husband, “I will lose cus-tomers. They will not find me and go to one of the other Serenity’s. I want my own brand.”
Her husband replied by saying, “Luisa, they will follow you, not the name of your shop. If they go with you, it’s for a Reason.”
She exclaimed, “That’s it! I will use the name Reasons.”
We were at the end of our con-versation when she brought up the word, threading.
I squinted, and asked, “What is threading?”
She pulled out a spool of cotton thread. “This,” she said, “is what can be used in replacement of waxing.”
She found some hair on my hand, and began working her magic. She made the thread look like it was dan-cing over my skin. It actually felt nice.
That was it… the hair was gone, pulled from the roots!
She said, “Two years ago, I took a trip to Scotland for a class from a Hindu woman who taught me threading.”
I was sorry our time had gone so quickly. Oh,
one last thing she told me. She is planning to open another salon in the city next year.
Needless to say, Luisa impressed me greatly. So, if you are out and about on the north end of town and want to pamper yourself, you might give Reasons a try. It is across the street from Rico’s and the Pemex sta-tion. I believe you will not regret the visit.
“Spring is nature’s way of saying, “Let’s party!”” - Robin Williams
“I want my customers to
have a better experience.”
“Two years ago, I took a
trip to Scotland for a class from a Hindu woman who taught me threading.”
Plenty Of “Reasons” To Visit Reasons Salon SpaREASONS SALON SPA
A few years ago, my bank sent me a new debit card in the mail. I knew it would take
roughly six weeks to arrive, but I thought, “No problem.” Evidently, I have become a laid back mañana-type semi Mexican, and as I thought of its epic journey, I had to laugh.
Quite frankly, there may be a bestselling novel out there... a thriller, perhaps. If only we could be the envelope for those six weeks. Think of the adventures it must be going through, those tense moments in the dark post office late at night where the foreign surroundings might cause the letter to fear if it will ever reach its destiny.
Prior to this debit card episode, a young man rang my bell shortly before Christmas. He said he was my mailman, and was on my doorstep asking for his holiday tip. I remember being confused, and thinking, “I didn’t realize I had a mailman, I never get mail.” I then
smiled and gave him 50 pesos.Do I have a mailbox? Of course
I do! When I moved here, I was shocked that there were no mailboxes in my neighborhood, I couldn’t understand it. Well, I took care of that by racing to Home Depot to purchase a cute little box
that I proudly hung on the side of my villa next my front door. “Ah, now that feels better,” I thought. “I am now ready to
receive my mail.”That was six years ago, I have
received exactly three pieces of mail since.
I was excited though; I knew my water and electric bills now had a safe haven to rest until I retrieved them. But that didn’t go exactly as planned. I still found them sitting on my porch, or on a windy day, in the neighbor’s garden. Oh well, I was ready to get real mail.
Back to the debit card story, it was scary. It took over six weeks to
arrive. I went to the downtown post office on the sixth week, and waited in the lobby while a nice man disappeared into the back room. A few minutes later, a young man came out, it was my mailman! He smiled, having remembered my 50 peso tip, he even remembered my name! “I’m on it,” he said. I left with a smile on my face, my confidence lifted, knowing that I would soon have this important card in my
possession. About a week later, I found the envelope from my bank taped to my front door with a note on it from my mailman. Call me so I know you got this~ 669.111.22.22. I was disappointed that he had chosen not to use my mailbox, but at the same time, elated that my card had arrived safely. Then I thought about this young mailman.
Suddenly, I found myself weighing two parts of this scenario. “It took over six weeks to arrive!” With, “I do not believe I have ever seen such a personal touch in the delivery of my mail.”
Now, I know of faster ways to get important mail, but there is a real lesson to understand. Go ahead, get a mailbox while living in Mazatlán, but just know this. It’s rather like attaching a painting to your living room wall, a piece of art to appreciate. And lucky me, my lonely mailbox is a real beauty. --Ahhh
The Ahh of Mazatlán...Lonely Mailbox
C. Michaels
C. Michaels is an author living in Mazatlán. You can check out her novels at cmichaelsbooks.com.
“I love spring anywhere, but if I could choose I would always greet it in a garden.” - Ruth Stout
“Go ahead, get a mailbox while living in Mazatlán,
but just know this. It’s rather like attaching a painting to your living room wall, a piece of art to appreciate.”
INGREDIENTS u 2 Tbsp. Bacon Drippingsu 1 Kilo Pork (approx. 2 lb) Kilo (450gr-1lb)u Salt & pepper to season porku 2 cups diced onionsu 1 cup diced carrotsu 2 Poblano Peppers, stem removed, seeded and deveined; diced ½ inchu 1 Jalapeño Chili, seeds and veins removed, choppedu 4 Garlic cloves, minced
u 2 Tsp. Dried oregano leaves, crushedu 1 Tsp. Whole cumin seedsu ½ Tsp. Saltu ¼ Tsp. Pepperu 2 Cans (Whole Black Beans, 560gr, each, net – 290gr, each, drained. Approx. 3 to 4 cupsu 1 Carton Tomato Puree, 210gr (USA use 1 cup canned tomato sauce)u 2 Cups Wateru1 Tsp. Chipotles Adobados
(optional)
METHODUse a large skillet, heat bacon
drippings over medium heat. Season pork with salt and pepper. Brown cubed pork. For ease in preparation, do this in batches. Transfer browned pork to slow cooker. In the same skillet, add the onions, carrots, poblano peppers, jalapeño peppers, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt and pepper. Over medium heat, cook until the onions, poblano peppers start to soften; about 5 minutes, transfer to the slow cooker. Drain the beans, rinse under cold water, and transfer to slow cooker. Stir in the tomato puree and the 2 cups setting until the pork is tender; 4 to 6 hours.
Garnish is optional, at time of service, offer grated cheese, sliced onions, chopped cilantro and sour cream.Yield: 4 to 6 serving
NOTE: Dried beans, cooked, yield: 1 cup dried=3 cups cooked
A mild “not too spicy chili” that has a good chili flavor. By combining the basic Cuban
food staples of black beans and pork, with the favorite MEXICAN spices of oregano and cumin; this becomes a robust main dish entree. Using canned black beans makes it a fast and easy meal to prepare. The use of the slow cooker provides the perfect way to cook chili. The pork is tenderized by the steam created from the stoneware insert. Flavors tend to mellow during slow cooker cooking. If more heat is desired, the additions (optional) of the chipotles adobados will provide that extra “kick”. For extra flavor, recipe calls for browning (searing) pork in bacon drippings; it can be replaced with olive oil. The pork is cut into chunks, about 1 to 2 inches square. Best cut of pork to use is the BOSTON BUTT (Cabeza de Lomo), which is hard to find in México, otherwise use a section from the leg (Pierna). Garnishes are optional, offered at time of service.
Add cilantro and sour cream. Delicious!
“No matter how long the winter, spring is sure to follow.” - Proverb
Being vegan in Mazatlán is, to say the least, no walk in the park.
Information, on pretty much anything there is to know, is a click away for anyone to become even a bit informed. Still, seems like some people reject and oppose whatever is outside their range of comprehension.
Mexican culture could be sadly described somewhat male chauvinistic, and unfortunately, this
macho mentality sometimes goes beyond a sexist attitude and more about an intolerant way of being, putting vegans under a thorough criticism.
On a personal note, even though I’m not vegan, I don’t know how many times have I had to sit there and have people question my diet and motives and having to take the mockery that surrounds it and let me tell you, it can be exhausting feeling like you’re under attack for the simple reason of choosing not to eat what your friends and/or family do eat.
More and more we see a “boom” of vegan restaurants all around thanks to the social media, and fortunately, the vegan gods have heard them prayers and thanks to a group of friends, Mazatlán has now its very own first vegan place.
(Insert angelic choir here)Away from the hustle
and bustle of the Plazuela Machado square, but still within the down town area, there is a heaven for vegans and vegan curious to rejoice and go have a hot-dog, a hamburger, pizza, tacos, brownies, cheese cake, etc and my personal favorite, you can even purchase vegan ham, sausages and bacon for your home’s fridge.
Even though it’s still on its early stage, these ladies have put all their time and effort into their dream project, and I personally thank them for it. For giving this town a loving and yummy option where to expand our horizons, see beyond our noses and give something different a try.
Don’t be afraid to give it a shot, you never know what you love until you’ve had it at least
once and also, how can we criticize what we’re not familiar with?
Kudos to these women and to everyone who stand up for their beliefs, promoting and spreading love and respect to every living creature equally.
Hats off to you ladies!!!
An alternative semi vegetarian, vegetarian and vegan guide to MazatlánMeat asideAdriana Toledo
17March 2015“Spring is when you feel like whistling even with a shoe full of slush.” - Doug Larson
JOkEof
the month
Act like you live here
Piña and Aguamiel
We know by now that we all must do what we can to lower our carbonfootprint(s).
Every day we can decide to be more conscientious about the products we choose and how we handle the by-products of daily life. As a com-pany, we want to be socially respon-sible. When we learned that the toxic by-products of the wood pulp chlorine bleaching (white-paper making process) end up in our rivers and streams, leaching carcinogenic dioxin into the atmosphe-re and dioxins and organochlorines into the ground water and up the food chain, we knew we didn’t want to contribu-te to that. We, too, loved our paper with beautifully designed, slick covers: but we couldn’t continue to use treated and blea-ched paper and have a clear conscience.
So, we switched to chlorine-free paper with recycled content, soy-based inks, then to CFL energy-saver light bulbs and now we recycle our office paper and do-nate surplus newspapers to a worthy group.
We continue to look for ways we can be more environmentally friendly; we want to use earth-saving technologies where-ver possible. Let’s all re-commit, every day to become more “responsible trustees of Earth” because, there is no Planet B.
The Mexicans have nicknamed the heart of the agave “piña” because its long, spike- shaped leaves bear a striking resemblance to a pineapple. The heart usually takes ei-ght to ten years to mature and it reaches twenty to twenty-five inches in diameter.
It will tip the scales at anywhere between eighty-five to one-hundred-fifty pounds. It is also interesting to note that the inside of the blue agave is a deep ivory when ripe.
At harvest time the leaves are chopped away from the heart and
are shipped by truck to the distilleries. The piñas are then cut into smaller pieces, cooked, and the juice pressed out. The juice or syrup is called “aguamiel” which means “honey water” in English.
The syrup is then combined with cane sugar and yeast and left for forty-eight to fifty-two hours to ferment. A two-phase distillation process produces a tequila that is from one hundred to one hundred-ten proof. Distilled water is then added to make eighty and ninety percent proof te-quila.
The Pacific Pearl loves our Earth, this newspaper is made from recycled paper
CREDIT: Lynn Nusom The Tequila Cook-book ISBN # 0-914846-89-2
Chikungunya is another mos-quito born infection, similar to Dengue that has entered Méxi-
co. The symptoms are very similar; fever joint pain, headache, muscle pain, joint swelling, or rash. This is a virus that show symptoms 3-7 days after being bitten. Symptoms usually last 1 week but joint pain can last for months. There is no known cure or vaccine. Death is not likely to occur but the pain can be debilitating. Un-like Dengue which can kill people, treatment is designed to keep the per-son comfortable. This season there have been many flus. Chikungunya and Dengue will make you feel like you have the flu but the pain is much worse. It is very important that if you have flu like symptoms but with seve-re pain, you immediately be exami-ned by a medical doctor. In Dengue there is the Classic and Hemorrhagic forms. People can die due to your platelet count dropping. Many guests to Mazatlán are on blood thinners or at the very least aspirin. This is very dangerous if you have Hemorrhagic Dengue and this why you need to be evaluated. It appears that for whate-ver reason, the mosquitos are now here year round. Even though we are
not in mosquito season there have been documented cases of Dengue here in Mazatlán.
Prevention is the key. Avoid ha-ving standing water on your proper-ty. Wear long sleeves and long pants
with shoes. Use insect repellant. Mazatlán is very good about spraying and providing materials that kill larva. If your neighborhood has a mosquito problem, contact the Department of Health.
“Science has never drummed up quite as effective a tranquilizing agent as a sunny spring day.” - W. Earl Hall
Dr. Steven Backman is an American-licensed chiropractor in his 8th year in Mazatlán. Don’t suffer pain any longer.
“No winter lasts forever; no spring skips its turn.” - Hal Borland
Dear Love Doctors:It seems since our retirement the world, people in our condo, our northern friends and relatives have become distant and seemed stressed out. They can phone us free of charge but they do not call us. We are retired and distressed.
Dear Retired and Distressed:There is good stress and bad stress. Say to yourselves “Our friends and family really do enjoy us”. The fact that no one contacts you can be stressful for you. In the end most people accept others as they are. By the way, the phone works both ways.
Dear Love Doctors:I wish someone could explain Hospice. My brother-in-law’s dad is going into Hospice.
Dear Wondering:Hospice is end of life care. Usually a hospice patient is expected to live 6 months or less. It is a program where professional and volunteers help people who are dying have comfort, peace and dignity. Pain control is maintained while having the
companionship of family and friends. Hospice care can take place in a hospital, nursing facility or in a home. Honesty and openness allow for good decision making and permit care without making a person feel like a burden. Many Hospice programs offer support for family members as well. We experienced a Hospice setting personally last year and found that the nursing staff was well trained, (specifically for Hospice patients) and were caring and passionate about their job. They were compassionate, thoughtful and very aware of the needs of the patient and family members. Here in Mazatlan Hospice Mazatlan, IAP is actively involved in fund raising. Not dying alone is vital in today’s isolated, non connected world.
Notice good, Laugh Loud, Love Often!Questions? Please submit to:[email protected]: www.lovesgps.comDisclaimer: This column is for informational purposes only and is not in any way intented to replace professional services.
Camaron Sabalo Ave.Alameda Shopping Center next to The Fish Market
across the street from Pueblo Bonito Hotel
Graduate of the University of Guadalajara School of Dentistry11-year practice in Lake Chapala, Jalisco6-year practice in Mazatlan, SinaloaAttends Continuing Dentistry Educational ProgramsOffering Current Dentistry Practices and Procedures
*****
English and Spanish Languages SpokenConservative Approach Specializing in Adult and Senior CareCaters to Needs of american and Canadian PatientsEmphasis on Compassionate and Painless Dental CarePersonalized Care Plans and dental Records Maintaned
*****
Reasonable PricesClean and Comfortable Dental Office - 2 Dental SuitesState-of-the-Art Equipment and Technology
The first seventeen years in Mazatlán, I grew accustomed to the washing machine that was
the standard for the humble hillside colonia we used to live in. How humble was it? There was no drainage system, but plenty of green space, and everyone would just let the washwater flow downhill into the bush. The washing machine was basically an open tin barrel on wheels with an agitator. Very simple. Fill it with a hose, add soap and clothes, plug it in, turn the dial and it starts doing the twist. When you decide it’s enough, unplug it, lower the drain hose out the back door until the clothes are no longer submerged. No need for a spin dry cycle, the tropical sun turns dripping clothes dry in an hour or two. Just slop them into a bucket or two and haul them up the stairs to the roof where ropes stretched from protruding rebar await. Then wheel the humble little washing machine back to its corner.
Well, now I am the proud but bewildered owner of one of these newfangled computerized, digitalized apparel cleansing devices that thinks it’s smarter than I am and proves it every time. It has an electronic sensor lock that prevents me from opening the lid when it’s operating, which fortunately protects me from sticking my head in while it’s spinning. The problem is, it takes forever for it to fill by itself, and it won’t let me fill it with a hose. If I do succeed in filling it up, it immediately expunges that water and begins the long process of trickling in again, ever so slowly, from the beginning. My twisted friend
Cindy said she solves the problem by filling up buckets of water, and pouring them in while her machine is unaware, but I can’t seem to find that magic moment when it let its guard down. Unlike with the humble old barrel style washer, I have no control over this beast. It drains invisibly into
the wall. It locks itself shut and ignores me. Its control panel is all unintelligible engineer-speak, lots of dials with unhelpful labels like eco-enjuage and sin suavizante. Never mind the gawldang suavizante, just sit there like a good machine and obey! I have started calling it Hal after the treacherous computer in 2001: A Space Odyssey (“Open the pod bay doors, Hal.” “I can’t do that, Dave.”).
So, for now, I just let the machine do it by the book,
drop by drop, even though it takes all day. Maybe that’s the point, it’s lazy. It knows it only has a thousand or so washes in its lifetime, what’s the hurry?
Ominously, I see that Bill (“Microsoft”) Gates is warning the world that artificial intelligence may pose a threat to our very existence as a species. This is getting serious. Today the laundry, tomorrow the databases, the end is in sight!
If any shrewd appliance hackers understand my dilemma, and know how to get around it, please don’t be shy about emailing me at [email protected]... I need all the help I can get!
“ In the spring, at the end of the day, you should smell like dirt.” - Margaret Atwood
DON’T SUFFERANYMORE!
Advertise with
Your Best ChoiceCall us: 913 0117 or 913 4411
Stranger in ParadiseMan vs Machine
E.G. Brady
Married in México, a collection of EG Brady’s Pacific Pearl columns going back ten to fourteen years is now available electronically at amazon.com, only 2.99 USD. Stock up while supplies last!
23March 2015“Every spring is the only spring — a perpetual astonishment.” - Ellis Peters
The hustle and bustle is back in our wonderful City! It is so nice to see
all the winter visitors with smiling faces running about town. Great to have all the cruise ships! This time of year sure puts a smile on my face as I see the snow piling up North of the border…what a great choice I made to live here! I don’t shovel sunshine and I certainly do not miss bundling up to head off to work!!
That’s my happy ramble for now…on to real estate…
Let’s talk commitment. I touch on this subject often when I meet new customers. You are not hiring the company, you are hiring a person, one who, I hope you respect and trust. Take your time, interview your agent, know in your heart that this person has your best interests in mind.
Once you have established a relationship and feel GREAT about your decision, COMMIT! PLEASE!
Realtors work on commission, they work hard, beat the pavement trying to find you what you need. Obviously if they are doing their
job, they are going to get paid as the end result of working on your behalf. .. unless you suddenly run into another realtor and then buy!!! (please don’t)
If you do not feel that your realtor is working correctly for you , please let them know and hire someone else. Do not let them continue wor-
king for you thinking they will reap the rewards.
When you interview your prospective realtor, ask what they specialize in. I truly believe you cannot know everything! In my case, I work the northern area, luxury homes and condo-miniums, I do not sell com-panies or large land. I may have realtors in those areas of expertise to help you but it’s not my personal area of intelligence! So often we want to do everything, not lose a buck ..the reality is we cannot do it all!
AND finally...so exciting to hear that we may be getting li-censing and/or certifications for REALTORS, this will be excellent for both the consumers and the professionals. To have a legal set of standards and practices will impro-ve the knowledge base of the real-tors and give the consumers peace of mind! Wonderful!
Make Me an OfferLesley Martinson
Lesley Martinson is the Owner of Canamerican Int’l Real Estate and a 28 years licensed broker. For more information call at 669 120 0631 or US cel. 602 430 0027. Email: [email protected]
24 March 2015 “Spring is sooner recognized by plants than by men.” - Chinese Proverb
AA MEETINGS Is going to be in La Misión at Camarón Sábalo #306 on Sundays at 10 a.m., Mondays at 10 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays at 6:30 p.m., and on Saturdays is going to be at the beach across from Hacienda Hotel at 10 a.m. The NA Meetings on Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. will be also at La Misión. Call to Jack - 044-669-127-5684 or 913-4406.
“BACK TO BASICS” GROUP English Speaking, Alcoholics Anonymous at Melville Hotel located on Calle Constitución #99. Meetings on Friday at 12 noon. For more info please phone: 910-0149.
FRIENDS OF MEXICO (FOM) The Friends of Mexico March meeting will be March 10 at La Palapa del Mar (next to Casa Country). Breakfast starts at 9:30, the meeting at 10. Our guest speakers will be Lic. Sylvia Treviño de Felton, President of DIF and Director Candelario Alberto Ibarra Guzmán, the Principal of Nueva Creación Jardines del Valle (the school that FOM supports). Please rsvp to the breakfast and/or meeting at [email protected].
MAZATLÁN ORPHANAGECristina Peña de Herrera, President, Board of Directors. Address: Zaragoza 227-A, Centro. Tel: 981-2214
RED CROSS 1801 Av. Zaragoza, Downtown, tel: 981-3690.
CASA DOWNFounded in 1993, is home to 29 young people affected by Down’s Syndrome. Casa Down needs volunteers, financial donations, school supplies and maintenance help. Call Laura Elena Arias 669-136-0821
DIF SYSTEM MAZATLANDesarrollo Integral de la Familia (Comprehensive Family Development) is México’s social services division. The local DIF program in Mazatlán has 22 programs helping over 30,000 people with everything from food and housing to young mothers, prosthetics and transportation for the handicapped, children’s protective services, elder care, school meals, and much more. If you would like to volunteer or make a donation to the local DIF system, contact their liaison Lisa Lankins at [email protected] or DIF at its office behind the post office in Centro.
BOYS´ HOME (HOGAR SAN PABLO) Tel: 982-3720 (Padre Horacio Rabelo Moreno) Address: Paseo del Centenario No. 9, Centro
AL-ANON ENGLISH MEETING Thurs. 10 am - 11 am. Late November - end of April. Located on Ave. Camarón Sábalo No. 306 in the Golden Zone, North of Domino’s through the oval iron gate. Next door to Dr. Backman’s new location. Contact Pam - 669-139-8116. Oval iron gate with “La Misión” at the top. Contact info [email protected]
TRES ISLAS ORPHANAGE FUNDServing Orfanatorio Mazatlán, Salvation Army Home for Children, Father Tovar´s Home for Boys (Hogar San Pablo), Ciudad de los Niños, and FloreSer. One hundred percent of your donations go directly to help the childrens in the orphanages with nothing taken for administration and your donations are tax-deductible. To learn how you can help, please visit www.orphanagefunds.org or email: [email protected]
LA VIÑA “THE VINEYARD CHURCH”Services Opportunities. Deliver food to the city dump workers. Help with your donations to feed the children. Calling Local: Office 916-5114. E-mail: [email protected]
UNA LUZ HACIA EL MUNDO (Mazatlán’s only school for the blind) Provides academic, computer & music classes to students from preschool age to adolescents; helping the blind and visually impaired gain the self confidence & motivation to assimilate and become productive members of society. For info on events & volunteering, contact John Castro, cel 669-199-1672, [email protected].
HOSPICE MAZATLÁNOffice: 182-1486 - 208 International, at the corner of Rio Presidio, near the Ley Vieja and Waldos on Ejército Mexicano. For info call: Lois Croly, Board of Director, cell: 669-162-5441, For donations, www.hospicemazatlan.org and/or email: [email protected]. We’ll be happy to receive your donation on the bank account: Banorte 611441245
PRO-MEXICOA Mazatlán organization dedicated to helping people help themselves. Tel: 985-2293. Mrs. Carmen Ruelas.
Organizations, Clubs & Donations
Letter to the Editor:
To the Organizations, Charity Donations and Clubs: Please notice that we have changed our policy for posting in/on paper/internet: One; We have a form that must be filled out prior to posting; Two; cost for
posting will be five-hundred pesos per year to post. The forms are at the Pacific Pearl office: Thank you.
NOTiCE:All these donations places are responsible
for keeping us updated; we are not responsible for the information here.
We will accept information from your charitable organization in writing only, from your official communications representative, 1 per organization, by deadline, the 15th.
“Well I have been living in Mazatlan for many years and
have always supported the baseball team, every time my friends come to Mazatlan who has never been I say hey check this out and they have a blast, well I had some friends from USA Canada and PV come to a game with me. I could not believe what we saw after I was just telling how great it is for people in wheelchairs. My handicap section was full of beer, not that I don’t drink enough of my favorite beer Pacifico which I also drink in Canada at home and the bars, so I asked the guy what he was doing there OH WELL, so I went to a guard and said hey what’s this, nothing then I went to the front and talked with a main guy nothing but the third guard did come by and cleaned up the broken glass under and around my scooter nice guy.
Then the bad beer guy would serve us cause I got a guard to chat with him. BullS…we all had to go down and around to get our beers, I
took some pictures of 2 other guys in wheelchairs we all were in the way of everyone at the playoff game and it was a full house. This is BS, Pacifico. It’s not how you screw up it’s how you make up. So make up. Thanks for the rant.”
By Sly Dog
Pacific Pearl, Por Qué No? Sports and Pacific Golf Center
Please help the kids, the least sponsored little league baseball team in Mazatlán, with players from 5 through 13 years old, who need bats, balls, gloves and hats for their games. Other equipment that we will hand out to the needy - Tennis Rackets, Badminton, Soccer stuff, Basketball, Boxing gloves, golf clubs etc. If you can pack any of these items in your luggage for the kids when you return this fall, please bring them to: “Pacific Pearl”
Are Expanding Their Reach to Under Privileged Children by Donations of New or
Used Sports Equipment, All Types.
DONATE SPORTS EqUIPMENT
(We do not accept monetary donations)
office, “Por Qué No? Sports” Restaurant or “Pacific Golf Center” for distribution to rural and local area kids. Thanks for you generous support.
25March 2015“Under the giving snow blossoms a daring spring. ” - Terri Guillemets
(We do not accept monetary donations)
Read before buying. (Property advice)
By adRIana Toledo
Met up Luis Roberto González from the Llausás-Azcona and associates law firm last week for
coffee and some very interesting poin-ters came up that might come in handy for some of you foreign friends thinking of acquiring some sort of property here in sunny Mazatlán.
First thing’s first, please remember down here you are in a different country, which basically translates into a different legal sys-tem, just like anywhere else around the world.
Luis Roberto put a lot of emphasis in an issue that as a local, you know it’s there but don’t really think about it until someone points it out and it’s so so true… the importance of a preventive culture.
Even if you think of yourself as being all mighty and oh so knowledgeable on anything that matters, please consider taking some advice and talk to a relia-ble specialized lawyer BEFORE buying, you’re going to want to make sure the construction company does exist and if they’re able to back up its existing deve-lopments. We’re talking a Litigation and Real Estate attorney.
Know that you are in your legal right to have your attorney with you when sig-ning contracts to go through every tiny letter; same thing goes when buying ti-me-share, you can either bring your attor-
ney on site or bring a copy of the contract to him/her.
Given the unfortunate case you have been victim of a fraud, class action is a way to go. Though it is not a popular re-source in Mazatlán, it is valid and helps build a stronger case.
Be aware of the fact that foreigners cannot legally own property in Mexican territory, you can, however, apply with the bank for a trust fund handling which means you do have possession of the
property but can’t be re-gistered under your name. Best advice would be to “lawyer up” and have an expert guide your through the whole process.
Now remember, Mexi-can legal process is not fast
and either a purchase or a lawsuit might take a while. You can help your attorney by keeping a record and copies of any gi-ven documents, by the way, always ask to get what’s promised in writing.
Another useful advice from Luis Ro-berto is to ask for a home inspection be-forehand, you might get stuck with the bill since it is not that common to do so in Mazatlán but if everything works as it should and you end up buying the place, you might ask for it to be taken off the to-tal price. A Civil Engineer is also a good option for a hidden defects inspection.
Don’t let yourself be fooled by low pri-ces because as we say in México, “cheap turns out to be expensive”. But hey, don’t take it from me; I’m no Luis Roberto.
26 March 2015 “You can cut all the flowers but you cannot keep spring from coming.” - Pablo Neruda
MONEYBanksMost banks are open from 9am to 4pm Monday-Friday and some are open on Saturdays. Because of frequent changes with all the banks, it is best to check with them for their current policies. Not all banks will exchange foreign money to pesos. There is usually a daily minimum if they do and will require a passport. Casa de Cambio (exchange bureau)These businesses are open longer
hours than banks, usually do not have long line-ups as banks often do, and they offer comparable exchange rates (though banks may offer a slightly better rate). Check around to see where you will receive the best exchange rate (the exchange rate is usually posted prominently outside the bank or casa de cambio). ATMs in MexicoThe most convenient way of accessing money while traveling is to withdraw Mexican pesos directly
from your credit card or debit card. It’s safer than carrying cash and the exchange rate offered is usually very competitive. Purchases Goods and ServicesBusinesses may accept a maximum of $100 USD in cash per transaction, with no restriction on the number of transactions per customer. However, many businesses are choosing to not accept US dollars at all. Likewise, many airlines within Mexico will only accept Mexican pesos and credit cards for payment of fees (such as baggage fees). The most convenient way to pay for purchases is to use a credit card or withdraw Mexican pesos from an ATM. It is not advisable to carry large amounts of cash.TippingTipping in either dollars (bills only, no coins) or pesos is acceptable, though pesos are usually more practical for the recipient. The amount you tip is at your discretion and should be based on the quality of service you received. At restaurants, 10 to 15% is standard. Check to be sure the tip is not included in your bill. Bellmen usually receive 10 pesos per bag and maids receive 15 to 30 pesos per day. It is not necessary to tip taxi drivers unless they have rendered special services. Tour guides and delivery people should be tipped. Youth and elderly who bag groceries do not receive a salary but rely on tips. 2 to 10 pesos is standard depending on how many bags you have.
REPORT CREDIT CARDWhere to report misplaced or stolen international credit cards in Mexico.Mastercard: 1-800-307-7309American Express:Travelers Checks: 001-800-828-0366Credit Cards: 001-800-333-3211VisaCredit Cards: 001-800-847-2911Collect: 001-410-581-9994Mastercard:Credit Cards: 001-800-622-7747Collect: 001-314-542-7111
DRINKING THE WATERPurified water and ice are available in all restaurants, bars and lounges. Purified water can be purchased in all supermarkets.
HEALTHPharmacies are generally staffed by knowledgeable people. Many will deliver and some are open 24 hours.
POSTING MAILThe post office is located downtown, across the street from the main plaza & the other one inside the Central Bus Station.
PHONING HOMEFree phone calls, internet computers and Wi-Fi access to the US and Canada as well as charging stations available at the Vineyard Church weekdays from 9:00 am-2:00 pm., Tuesday through Fridays.Hotels can assist with long distance calls and dialing direct.
CELL PHONESIf you are a frequent visitor to Mazatlán or staying for an extended
period, consider purchasing a cell phone here. For a very reasonable price (under $30 U.S.D) you can buy a cell phone and purchase minutes. Then you will have a local phone number. Get the clerk to set up the phone in English. DELIVERYCheck the food delivery policy with your hotel. Some allow the delivery to the lobby, others request that you wait utside the door of the lobby.
DRIVING IN MAZThe speed limits in Mazatlán are 40kph in the city, 20kph in school and hospital zones and 90kph outside urban areas.
TRANSPORTATIONAlways negotiate the price of the ride before entering a taxi. If you are not satisfied with the price, just step back and wait for the next one. The following charges are fairly standard thoughout Mazatlán — Taxis (red & green): from downtown to Golden Zone 40-60 pesos. Pulmonias: from downtown to Golden Zone 40-60 pesos. Aurigas: (red pick-up trucks) 80-100 pesos (8 person capacity) Green Bus (airconditioned): 10.00 pesos (will give change) White with Yellow or Green stripes: 7.00 pesos (will give change)
DRIVING IN MAZWatch out for unmarked topes, or speed bumps. Some are fairly high and can cause severe damage to your vehicle.
CONSULATESU.S. CONSULATE IN HERMOSILLO, SONORA. Hours: 9a.m.-5 p.m., Mon-Fri. Closed Mexican and U.S. Federal holidays. Call 01-(662)217-2375 for officer.01-900-849-4949 for visa appt. U.S. CONSULATE IN NOGALES, SONORA. Hours: 8a.m.-4:30p.m., Mon-Fri. Call 01-(631)913-4820 for appt.U.S. CONSULAR AGENCY IN MAZATLÁN. Playa Gaviotas 202, Local 10, across from Hotel Playa Mazatlán. U.S. Consular Agent Luis Ramirez. Notary Stamp $50 USD. Tel / fax (24 hr. emergency): (669)916-5889 email: [email protected] web: mexico.usembassy.gov. To call the American Embassy in Mexico City, dial 01-52-555-080-2000CONSULAR AGENCY OF CANADA IN MAZATLÁN. La Marina Business and Life Commercial Center, Blvd. Marina Mazatlán 2302, Office 41. Consular Agent Wendy Hardouin. Tel:913-73-20, Fax:914-66-55. To call Canadian Embassy in México City dial: 01-555-724-7900. For after hours emergencies, dial: 01-800-706-2900.OTHER MAZATLÁN CONSULATES:Germany: 914-9310, 916-5980Denmark: 981-7642France: 985-1228 / Italy: 985-1478
Mazatlán Tourist TipsTAXESA national consumer tax of 16% known as IVA is tacked onto most purchases, although it is generally included in most restaurant menu prices.
27March 2015“Spring has returned. The Earth is like a child that knows poems.” - Rainer Maria Rilke
This month we will talk a bit about a type of fishing that is very popular in the Mazatlan
shores, Surf Fishing, which as the name explains is fishing from the beach. This form of fishing is particularly good in the winter months from december to april, when cold water currents push the fish closer to the shore. Huge schools of sardines and other baitfish gather around the shallow water attracting a large number of predators like snapper, white seabass, snook and many other species.
Compared to deep sea or bottom fishing, surf fishing can be much more affordable but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. To accomplish any kind of results you will need to be armed with 3 things: The right equipment, patience and a lot of determination. You will need to pay attention to details and remember that everything matters, bird activity, water color, temperature and tides.
In terms of equipment you will need a rod, a reel, line and a lure, several lures actually. For most beaches in the area you will need a beach rod, anywhere from 10 to 12 ft. It’s worth to pay a little extra here as more pricey rods tend to be lighter and stronger. Cheap rods are usually heavy, they may do the job but casting that thing for a couple of hours and you will certainly need to see a chiropractor. As far as reels, there are several types but the spinning reel is number one choice for this type of mission. Choosing
the right fishing line is also very key. Since the main challenge is getting your lure way out there past the waves and into deeper water you will want a line that cuts through the air easily like braided line, which is about 1/3 of the diameter of the typical monofilament line. Now for the final piece of equipment you will need lures, lots of them actually. They are much like women’s shoes, you can never have enough of them, anytime you go to a tackle shop you come back with at least one more.
The ideal weight for a lure is 1 or 2 ounces, this is enough weight to allow it to fly for a long distance and hopefully land near a hungry fish. As you start retrieving the lure the action it makes should trigger
the fish’s predatory instincts and BOOM...fish on.
No licence required for surf fishing.
To learn more about the right equipment for surf fishing please visit our reservation office, tackle & bait shop.
Fishing ReportSurf Fishing
Eduardo Rodríguez
Eduardo Rodríguez is the Owner & Operator of Escualo Fleet in Mazatlán. For more information they are located across the street from dock #10 Boulevard Marina Mazatlan #2302 Plaza la Marina Mall local #11 Look for the big Marlin in the wall.
Open Sunday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5.p.m. Saturday day off. Phone 913-03-03.
Surf Fishing!
A fishing lure is a type of artificial
fishing bait which is designed to
attract a fish’s attention.
28 March 2015 CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIEDS DEADLINE FOR EACH EDITION IS THE 15TH OF THE MONTH PRIOR TO PUBLICATION.
(We will even help translate ads for you).
Commercial Rates:$360 pesos 15 words, per edition(60 pesos for an extra 5 words)
Regular Rates: $180 pesos 15 words, per edition($30 pesos for an extra 5 words)
PREPAID ADS ONLY. For more information call 913-0117. Add Color 15% More. Display ad in classifieds 1/16 size $1,200
Fill out the form at the Pacific Pearl Office, Av. Camarón Sábalo #2601
BOOKS AND ExCHANGES
BOOKS for SALE or ExCHANGE. Over 5,000 titles, new releases, maps & more.MAZATLAN BOOK COMPANY, across from Costa de Oro Hotel, behind Banco Santander down the hall. Tel 916-7899 9:30am-4pm P
FOR ALL YOUR SEWING NEEDS see ALICIA at the Plaza next to Banamex in the Golden Zone, Local 8-A, next to Farmacia Moderna. Mon-Fri: 8am.-7pm & Sat. 9am-4pm. Tel. 669-2119 P
DRESSMAKER
HANDYMAN SOLUTIONS. “Stop searching and worrying about your home needs”. All levels of maintenance: Electric, plumbing, carpentry, concrete, windows, doors, welding, energy products, A/C. 12 years of experience. Give us a call- We’ll get it fixed!!. Nicolás A. Pico, Civil Engineer.Phones: 176-9830 Celi: 669 132-5319 or 669 153-8311 English Spoken !!!. 11/14
BLAKE AND ANN BENSON WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE FOLLOWING FOR MAKING THEIR STAY IN MAZATLAN MEMORABLE: THE LUNA PALACE, THE OCEAN PALACE, CARLOS & LUCIAS RESTAURANT AND FAMILIES, THE FAT FISH RESTAURANT, INTERNATIONAL MASSAGE, TWISTED MAMA’S, ADRIEN’S DESIGNS, MARY BETH, JORGE LOAIZA AND HIS WHOLE FAMILY, EMILIO SANCHEZ ZAPATA AND FAMILY AND EDUARDO FROM DOUBLE “E” TOURS, THE PACIFIC PEARL AND THE STAFF OF ALL THE AFORE MENTIONED BUSINESSES. YOU MADE OUR STAY SPECIAL BECAUSE WE WERE TREATED LIKE FAMILY, NOT CLIENTS.
TILE WORK , ELECTRICAL, PLUMBING, Sheet Rock, painting. 20 Years experience. Honesty, quality. Free estimates. Pastor Daniel Cel ph. 669 190-0116. 03/15
HEALTH SERVICES & SUPPLIES
LANGUAJES
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
RENTALS
CHIROPRACTOR American Licensed. Don’t suffer pain any longer. Call: Dr. Steven Backman, D.C. at 916-75-00 for an appointment. P
DRA. PATY ASCENCIO, ADULT DENTISTRY/GENERAL & PREVENTIVE. 17 years attending the foreign community!. English Spoken. Camarón Sábalo 1502-8, Sábalo Country.Next to Fish Market Rest.Ph. 668-0548 http://www.patydds.com 04/15
CENTRO DE IDIOMAS ESRAH, offers Spanish and English. Group lessons and private lessons.Preparation TOEFL/IELTS, ALL LEVELS. Business training.Contact us: 193-1249 Cel: 669 932-0931.www.esrah.mx email: [email protected] 12/12
RECOGNIZED LEADER IN BOTH PROPERTY MANAGEMENT & VACATION RENTAL services with 15 years experience in Mazatlán. American-owner, Mexican-registered corporation. Call Mazatlan rentals & Management 916-7794. E-mail: [email protected] or visit www.mazatlan-rentals.com 05/15
PROFESSIONAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT AND VACATION RENTALS from OCCAN Properties. Providing peace of mind and personalized attention for all of our clients. Call or E-mail today! [email protected] .Cell: 669 132-3441 & 669 533-0950. 11/14
DELUxE CONDOS & HOMES for Weekly & Monthly Rentals. Fully-furnished and well-maintained. Paraiso, Costa Bonita, Quintas del Mar, Ocean Palms, El Cid neighborhood, and many more. Call Mazatlan Rentals & Management 916-7794. E-mail: [email protected] or visit www.mazatlan-rentals.com 05/15
MANAGEMENT, RENTALS, SALES: Professional Management + Rentals @ Golf Course, beach, marina. Info. Ph. 983-0011 www.walfre.com [email protected] 03/15
1000 Sq.F. APARTMENT PARADISE BAY. Pool, jacuzze, gym, star choice T.V. 1 bl. To Mega, beach, malecon. $ 850.00 USD per month.E-mail: [email protected] 03/15
2 ANGELS (4U), ERRANDS & MORE. Pet sitting your home or ours, walking. House Sitting. Property Management. Shopping. Translating Companion. Honest, Reliable, Ref. avail. Call Elise Cel. (669) 139-3282 P
OCEAN FRONT CONDO at Costa Bonita, Fully-furnished, 2 bedroom, 2 baths, non-smoking unit, monthly/weekly.e-mail: [email protected] Cell: 044-669-918-2734. 01/15
BONDED HOUSEKEEPING, Services and Maintenance while you are away. Call Irma.Cel: 044 669 918-2734 www.hogarlimpiohogar.com 12/14
YOUR CLASSIFIED AD COULD BE HERE! Ask us how! Call at 913-0117 or 913-4411. Or just visit us in our office at Camarón Sábalo Avenue #2601 Local 11, Sábalo Country, below Los Zarapes Restaurante. Call us for information.
