Winter 2023

Journal del Pacifico Holiday 2022/2023 cover by Ezra KatzThank you for all your compliments on our Holiday / Navidad 2022/2023 issue with cover by artist Ezra Katz. Local photographer Liz Icedo shared her beautiful Baja sunset photo for our Winter / Invierno 2023 cover.

In this issue, Bryan Jáuregui of Todos Santos Eco Adventures tells of the new Cowboy Museum in El Triunfo, that chronicles the 300-year-old story of the families, traditions, skills, and tools that bind the Californias of Mexico and the United States.

Bryan also shares with us how Zero Waste Hotels, like Hotel Desierto Azul in the Las Tunas Journal del Pacifico Winter 2023 cover by Liz Icedoarea of Todos Santos, are working to make a minimum impact on our precious environment.

Nancy Naigle informs us of the impressive gains that the Padrinos Children’s Foundation has made over the past seven years and their exciting plans for the future.

Ivonne Benítez, of Hablando Mexicano, tells the inspirational story of how owner Alan Becerril has created his restaurant and now Hotel Gallo Azul businesses. Alan has been a well-known figure in the Todos Santos community since 2005, and Gallo Azul Pizza Bar has been a popular spot since it first opened in 2014.

Have you tried the gourmet tacos at Tacoteca in Plaza Amigos in Todos Santos yet? Their fresh, daily specials include duck confit, top sirloin, pork carnitas, portabella mushroom, and more. Every Thursday is Taco Thursday with live music in the evening.

Happy 10th year anniversary to Étnica in Todos Santos! Their two locations, Étnica and Étnica Dos, have the finest Mexican handmade women’s and men’s fashions, leather goods, and home furnishings.

Amanda Reta tells the tale of Practical Magic: how this pueblo mágico is magical in the enchanted sense of the word. This tiny international melting pot has residents from all over the world, and yet you don’t just end up here. And how three women––a tarot card reader, a ritual teacher, and a breathwork practitioner––help us mortals tune into something bigger than ourselves while remaining in the awe-inspiring now.

Galería Logan is hosting a reception for artist Lee Mothes on February 11th. View his newest paintings and drawings of ocean surf, meet the artist, and enjoy wine and snacks.

The luck of the Irish is with you on March 17th. Shut Up Frank’s in Todos Santos will be celebrating their 28th annual Lucky St. Paty’s Day with Frank’s special homemade corned beef. And Shaka’s in Cerritos will be hosting their Shamrock Shindig benefiting the Pescadero Food Bank and Grupo Madre Teresa.

Galería Enrique Guerrero represents a group of young artists who are part of the emerging scene and explore all the visual arts disciplines such as painting, sculpture, photography, video, installation and digital media, with a contemporary vision and self-sustainable proposals. The gallery offers them a space of freedom in which they can exhibit their artistic creation, in addition to spreading their work nationally and internationally. Their newest location is on the otro lado of Todos Santos, next to Pinos Mercado and Pacifica Fish Market.

Contigo Cerritos is the perfect balance of home and hospitality. The intimate community of boutique casitas was designed by international award-winning Sanzpont Arquitectura based in Barcelona, Cancun, and Chicago, and features an international design aesthetic with an authentic local touch. As much as possible all materials and craftsmen are sourced in Mexico, as are the interior design touches. With a passion for sustainability, the layout of the casitas was based on a solar study to minimize direct sun exposure to interiors, to maximize efficiencies, and to preserve the view from the road above, so that hikers and bikers can continue to enjoy the ocean views. The casitas are built with sustainable features such as grey water recycling, partial green roofs, and renewable backup power.

In addition to their popular Las Tunas location, Shakti Bowl has a new healthy restaurant at El Merkado in San José del Cabo.

New World Organics Baja produces non-toxic and organic pest control, cleaners, sanitizer, mosquito repellant, and plant fertilizers. Their products are available in various locations in Todos Santos, Pescadero, Cabo San Lucas, La Paz and now on Mercado Libre.

The Palapa Society of Todos Santos is holding a masquerade ball on April 1st. Masquerade masks are encouraged, costumes are optional. Dinner included and beverages are available. See their website for more information.

We will see you with more exciting stories in our next issue, Spring / Primavera 2023. The deadline is March 10.

This is What Community Looks Like

Journal del Pacifico Spring 2020 cover by Kate TurningThe communities of Todos Santos and Pescadero have been working through these trying times, finding ways to adapt to the many changes, figuring out business options, and reaching out to help those in need. These individuals are neither heroes nor saints but are the backbone for real community that we love.

Many local restaurants have found creative ways to stay open by offering takeout and delivery options.

Chill N Grill has curbside pickup for their full menu and pizza, Monday – Friday, 4 – 8 pm, and Taco Tuesday again! Call to order, 6121450014.

Chez Laura and Poke Loco have teamed up to offer daily specials Wednesday – Saturday. You can also order Chez Laura’s delicious bread!

Gallo Azul has pizza and beer to go and offers home delivery, Tuesday – Sunday, 2:30 – 8 pm. Call to order, 6121588457.

Shut Up Frank’s has their full menu and beer available for takeout and delivery, Wednesday – Sunday, 12 – 8 pm. Call to order, 6121450707.

Todos Santos Brewing is providing people with that valuable substance – beer. You can refill your growlers Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 12 – 2 pm. Checkout their Facebook page for brew master, Ted Mitchell, performing his original acoustic tunes for our listening pleasure.

Palmar in Pescadero has their full menu available for takeout, Monday – Saturday, 12 – 7 pm. Order in advance via Facebook, Instagram or WhatsApp.

Area grocery and specialty stores have stepped up to the “new norm” by asking customers to wear masks and limiting the number of people in the store at one time.

Pura Vida Health Food and Deli is open Monday – Saturday, 10 am – 5 pm. You can shop at the store or place your order for pickup. They offer personal delivery to Pescadero on Thursdays and Las Tunas on Fridays. They are also taking orders for Costco purchases.

Que Rico has recently changed ownership but continues stock the same great local products. They are open Tuesday – Thursday, 11 am – 5 pm. They also have cloth face masks for sale made by Manos Magicas sewing team.

You can order from Mini Super Munchies online, by WhatsApp or Messenger, Monday – Friday, 12 – 4 pm and pickup at their location.

Todos Santos Private Transportation and Todos Santos Eco Adventures have been working with ACTS to distribute food to area families in need. And Mario Surf School has also been helping the group distributing pet food to families in need.

Todos Santos Private Transportation also is offering shopping service to La Paz or Cabo.

Farmacia San Benito and St. Jude’s pharmacy are open regular business hours and stocking hand sanitizer, alcohol, vitamins, and all your needs. Farmacia San Benito can special order medications as well.

St. Jude’s Medical Center is open and seeing patients.

Cuatro Vientos recently offered 5 Days of Fitness Zoom classes as a fundraiser for ACTS.

Cate Thomassen, shardArtist, donated an original mosaic table for a fundraiser raffle for the Biblioteca Elena Poniatowska. Tori Sepulveda was the proud winner.

You can still learn or improve your Spanish from home. Hablando Mexicano is offering online Spanish classes.

Mail Boxes Todos Santos continues to provide their full mail, shipping, and receiving services.

Todos Insurance would like you to know that COVID19 is covered for new and existing clients. Check out their international insurance. Contact Jack Schaub at jack@shoreline.com.mx

How you can help?

The Palapa Society of Todos Santos A.C.‘s students are finishing the school year at home and are receiving help online, via telephone, and WhatsApp.

It is also the time of year when parents and students are working on their applications for the 2020/2021 school year. Although all Palapa students receive tuition help, this is a hard time for parents to pay their portion. Your generous donation can help keep local/ students in school. To make a donation, visit: https://palapasociety.org/donate/

ACTS, Asociacíon de Colonos de Todos Santos A.C., is taking donations to help feed local families in need. You can visit their website to get the link to make a PayPal donation at: www.actsbaja.org  The Palapa Society of Todos Santos is helping with their donations. To donate via PayPal: use the email: tickets@palapasociety.org, Enter your donation amount. Be sure to note FOOD BANK in the memo.

The Pescadero Food Bank has increased their outreach to 200 bags on a biweekly basis. Their goal is to continue to feed more families, including helping those from Grupo Madre Teresa, Pescadero rancheros, and Padrino Children’s Foundation. You can make a
donation via Paypal: paypal.me/pescaderofoodbank

There is also a group distributing pet food to families in need. You can donate via PayPal: coast-paradise@shaw.ca, or through www.raincoastdogrescue.com and click on donate. Be sure to fill in the note section that it is for Todos Santos for this option! Donations via this method are tax deductible in the US.

We at Journal del Pacifico are posting updates on changes, and keeping you informed on when and how things will be reopening. Follow us right here, on Facebook, and remember, you can read all our issues online!

Stay safe!

Winter 2020

Thank you for all the compliments we received for our Holiday issue with the fabulous Mark Gabriel cover, “El Rey.” We hope that you enjoy this issue with its great Baja stories, photos, and art.

Journal del Pacifico Winter 2020 cover by Pablo Marquez, Todos Santos, Baja, MexicoPhotographer Pablo Márquez contributed this issue’s cover photo of La Poza lagoon. You can see more of his fine art prints at Galería Logan in Todos Santos.

Galería Logan is holding an art opening March 14, featuring new works by Lee Mothes and Jill Logan.

The Palapa Society of Todos Santos A.C. has two popular tours coming up—the Artists of Todos Santos Open Studio tour at the beginning of February and the ever popular biannual Todos Santos Historic Home tour. See this issue’s article for more information. And you can still get a copy of the 18-month Artists of Todos Santos calendar! All support The Palapa Society of Todos Santos programs.

Artist Ann Hebebrand has two more workshops coming up, Abstract possibilities and Painting with Neutrals. See events for more information.

In our Winter 2020 issue, Bryan Jáuregui of Todos Santos Eco Adventures shares the story of the Puppo brothers in the “Last Fishermen of Isla Espírtu Santo,” with photos by Keenan Shoal Werner. Trudi Angell of Saddling South also shares with us more background on the making of the film “La Recua, Dario’s Dream.”

Growing old in Baja is a reality for many ex-pats. Now Comfort Care & Assistance is providing options for assisted living, hospice care, and information about death and dying in Mexico. The Asociación de Colonias de Todos Santos’ (ACTS) mission is to help support neighborhood security, communication, preservation, and also publishes a community phone book.

Dylcor Design & Construction in Pescadero is a responsible building company that not only offers high-quality construction but helps the local community and supports the local fire department. See their ad in this issue.

The Boxing Room, Brian McGuffey, Todos Santos, BCS, MexicoThe Boxing Room on the otro lado of Todos Santos is now open. Brian teaches one-on-one professional boxing by appointment. It’s a great workout!

De la Rosa Architecture mixes contemporary design with traditional architecture, creating luminous spaces that connect with the sea, the mountains, and the desert. Check out their ad in this issue or visit: www.delarosaarchitecture.com

LoveLeigh Designs is an ethical fashion collection situated adjacent to Baja Beans Café in Pescadero. They work directly with local (many underprivileged) artisans, helping to generate an income for them and their families. Each piece in their store, and online, is handmade, tells a story, and every purchase helps someone in need. A portion of all sales goes to fund local projects, individuals, and communities in Baja California Sur.

Shut Up Frank's 25th annual St. Paty's Day, Todos Santos, BCS, MexicoYou won’t want to miss the 25th annual St. Paty’s Day celebration with Frank’s famous corned-beef and fixings on March 17th at Shut Up Frank’s in Todos Santos. Then head over to Todos Santos Brewing for a pint of beer and listen to some great music in the beer garden.

Amor d’Vino is located inside La Generala Restaurant in Todos Santos. In addition to stocking great Mexican wines and tequilas, they can make you a beach basket, and gift certificates are available. Contact them for weddings, private events, private tastings, and birthday parties, or stop in on Wednesday for a wine tasting 1 to 5 pm.

Dos Marias Day Spa, in Pescadero, is situated in a lovely garden setting and offers the ultimate in pampering with a variety of facials, body scrubs, massage treatments, and a Temazcal sweat lodge. It is time to treat yourself to some important self-care!

Todos Los Perros, certified professional dog training is now in Todos Santos. Contact them for group or private lessons. They specialize in dog socialization, obedience, and security K9s. My dog, Max, a recent AKC canine good citizen graduate, loves their classes!

Galería La Gitana on calle Hidalgo in downtown Todos Santos, features paintings by Jimena Garcia, unique ceramics, jewelry, and clothing that you won’t find anywhere else. You can also see Jimena’s work at the monthly Baja 100 art walks.

Chez Laura in Todos Santos serves delicious French specialties in an outdoor, romantic atmosphere. Besides their regular menu, they have daily specials and happy hour Wednesday through Friday.

Virginia Moonstone Mazzetti knows that some would find it insane to uproot from a life in Washington state and start over on a plot of land in Mexico. Most people couldn’t imagine doing something so daring, but she’s found others who have done the exact same thing. Through twenty interviews, Mazzetti explores the reasons for their odysseys and the peace, happiness, and adventure they have found in their new homes. You can find her book, Beginning Again in a Foreign Land, at El Tecolote Bookstore in Todos Santos.

We will see you in our next issue, Spring 2020. We’ll have more great stories, photos, art, and information on the GastroVino Baja Food & Wine festival! The deadline is March 10. And don’t forget, you can see every issue online at journaldelpacifico.com

Holiday / Navidad 2019

Thank you for all the compliments on our Day of the Dead fall cover of Ophelia Manik by Kenny Viese. Emmanuel put on an unbelievable show in the plaza for the third annual Día de Muertos Todos Santos event. Kudos to Bésame Mucho Bazaar and the whole team of volunteers who made the event possible. La Paz photographer, Sandra Muñoz covered the concert for Journal del Pacifico.

Mark Gabriel, Galería Militar in Todos Santos and Pez Gordo in San José del Cabo, has shared “El Rey” the humpback whale for our holiday cover. Mark Gabriel is an award-winning multi-media artist who began his career in the underground comics and fanzine world. He is also one of the featured artists in The Palapa Society’s Artists of Todos Santos 2020/2021 calendar.

We have a variety of informative and fun stories for you in the issue. Bryan Jáuregui of Todos Santos Eco Adventures shares the success story of Cabo Pulmo and the Baja Coastal Institute. She also had the pleasure of interviewing a pig for our Life of Colette piece.

Trudi Angell of Saddling South tells the tale of Baja’s first mule pack-trains and their journey to “Alta” California.

Pamela Ambrose interviewed Cate Thomassen, shardArtist. You can see Cate’s mosaic work at her show at the Galería de Todos Santos on January 29.

Palapa Society of Todos Santos 5k run/walk, Todos Santos, Baja, MexicoThis holiday season enjoy the abundant activities, specials, events, workshops, and seminars. There is a whole lot going on! Start the season off with The Palapa Society’s Carrera de Todos Santos 5k walk / run on December 28.

Then, live the red-carpet experience at Colette The Pig’s world premiere of her art film at Panteón 19, which benefits the Padrino Children’s Foundation.

Photographer Pablo Marquez, Galería Logan, will be leading a four-day master class in capturing the soul of landscape photography starting January 12.

Artist Anne Hebebrand is offering classes in abstract painting, painting with neutrals, and cold wax January through March.

The Writing Ranch’s 10th annual “Writing Down the Baja” retreat takes place January 26 through February 2, at Serendipity in Todos Santos.

The Todos Santos Writers’ Workshop, now in its seventh year, takes place February 1 through 8, and have added a second week for those enrolled in the first week, February 10 through 15, for writers who want to continue their work.

Baja Blooms, a five-day pottery, creative journaling, and yoga retreat takes place March 22 through 28 at the Hotelito this season.

And you won’t want to miss the Artists of Todos Santos Open Studio Tour, February 7 to 9, a benefit for The Palapa Society of Todos Santos.

The Pelican Theater Company of La Paz is also back this season with shows January 21 through 25. See our article for more details.

La Palapa del Sabor has monthly mariachi nights with delicious Mexican specialties for dinner. See our events listings for all of these and more!

Mailboxes Todos Santos has added a third location, in Cabo in the Walmart complex, location #69.

Pura Vida Health Food Store & Deli in Todos Santos is celebrating 10 years of serving the local community.

Tortugeros Las Playitas will have hatchling releases every day at 5 pm at the Tortugueros Las Playitas greenhouse in Las Tunas. Releases are open to the public and free of charge. Reservations requested for tour and school groups, info at: Whats App 612-177-8393.

Cross2box has moved to a new location at the entrance to Todos Santos. Cross2box doesn’t have individual classes, every hour there is new session based on their clients’ needs.

You’ve probably been hearing about the new dentist in Todos Santos, Dra. Ana Cortez at Smile Up. In addition to general dentistry, she is a specialist in crowns, implants, and cosmetic dentistry.

Panterra Eco Expeditions, at the Fonatur marina in La Paz, offers land-based and cruising expeditions to Magdalena Bay and the Sea of Cortez. And right now, they’re offering special Christmas discounts!

St. Jude’s Medical Center now has a walk-in clinic in Pescadero, next door to their pharmacy.

Shut Up Franks is back with new specials and some old favorites. They also have happy hour weekdays from 3 to 6 pm.

Happy holidays! We’ll see you in February with our winter issue. Deadline is January 10.