Mazatenango Carnival by Thor Janson - bushmanollie.com

For those who feel the need to dance in the streets (or at least observe others doing so), Thor Janson invites you to Shake Your Booty at the annual Carnival in Mazatenango.

Other travel stories include two interesing locations on Guatemala’s Exotic Pacific Coast by Tara Tiedemann, and a breathtaking spot outside of Quetzaltenango called Laguna Chicabel, written by Blake Nelson.

Anna-Claire Bevan interviewed the well known and very talented designer and architect Franklin Contreras, who shared some of his thoughts and insights.

Dr. Nicholas Hellmuth takes us on a Search for Original Mayan Cotton. And Kathy Rousso fills us in on the tradition of The Chajul Basket.

Elizabeth Bell answers the question, Why has there been so much speculation about the Mayan 2012 calendar? And Ken Veronda searches for subtle touches of Cardinal Red in the Guatemalan countryside.

We happily introduce two new columns this month: 2012 Spirit by Sri & Kira, and Healthy Solutions by Lori Shea.
And as always, throughout the pages are photo gems by our ever-amazing contributing photographers.

Just a reminder, REVUE is I-Pad and Tablet friendly, you can read our pages by just tapping on our website.
Alert: the Revue Monthly Photo Contest begins in March. Send your favorite photo of people to photos@revuemag.com and become eligible to win a prize.

Have fun, and see you online with updates at Facebook.com/RevueMagazine.

—John & Terry Kovick Biskovich

Sosteniendo el mundo by Guillermo Rafael Cuyún Figueroa - www.flickr.com/photos/elguie/

88 photographs grace the pages this month of our 9th Annual Photo Issue. We hope you enjoy them as much as we do. There are interesting, beautiful and thought-provoking images sent to us by recreational and professional photographers alike.

We sincerely thank all of you who submitted photos this year. We received a few after the deadline, and those we will include in future issues in the coming months.

This year’s photos and past photo issues are available for viewing on our website at RevueMag.com where you can also find a useful Business Directory, maps, videos, a cultural calendar, and a host of articles.
From all of us at Revue…

Happy New Year 2012!

—John & Terry Kovick Biskovich

For travel inspiration, Anna-Claire Bevan reports on swinging from the trees in Jalapa, writer Carla Berryhill warns that Santa Cruz La Laguna may be habit forming; and Blake Nelson takes us Volcano Climbing.

On the education front, read all about IGA’s Commitment to Culture; Elizabeth Bell explains What is Happening with the Palace of the Captains General; Linda Green covers where Sleeping Dogs should lie, and Ken Veronda paints a picture in words about the splendor of Spices in Sensuous Guatemala.

Congratulations to many businesses celebrating anniversaries this month, including La Antigua Galeria de Arte, La Casbah and the Centro de Formacion de La Cooperacion Espanola.

REVUE ONLINE debuts DateBook postings, page by page magazine reading, back issues and of course updates as they happen. It’s a big wide world, and we’re so glad that we can stay in touch, be it in print, in RevueOnline, and on Facebook, and Twitter. From all of us to all of you, we wish you a wonderful holiday season!

Hatchling Trek (photo: Jordan Banks)

The 3rd annual Festival de la Tortuga will be held this month on the Pacific beaches in Monterrico and neighboring Hawaii. The festival’s purpose is to raise awareness of the endangered olive ridley sea turtle; Alice Lee provides details, including a rundown on the events and activities.

This month Thor Janson brings us Getting High in Ixchiguan, and he means exactly that–Ixchiguan is situated some 3,200 meters above sea level, making it the highest town in all of Central America! Kathy Rousso introduces a Morral Builder, explaining how a San Marcos la Laguna craftsman learned to crochet beautiful, colorful morrales.

Congratulations to Elizabeth Bell, she has been chosen to receive the prestigious Orden Diego de Porres Gold award which will be presented to her this month in a ceremony celebrating the Consejo of La Antigua Guatemala’s 42nd anniversary. Ask Elizabeth appropriately answers the question, What is the National Council for the Protection of La Antigua Guatemala?”

Migratory House by Anna-Claire Bevan tells the story of the building of an authentic Antigua colonial-style home, designed by architect Franklin Contreras–which in itself would be interesting–but there is more. Meet George and Gerri Chester and visit their dream home away from “home.”

Weaving a History by Joy Houston explains how, “the weaving tradition is a dynamic art form with ties to the past. It is more than craft.”

DateBook highlights include Handel’s Messiah and the Lake Atitlan Jazz Blues Cruise, plus listings for art shows, concerts, theater, films and workshops. Many events scheduled for 2012 are already in the planning stages, including The Atitlan Marathon as reported by Dwight Wayne Coop. Stay tuned for updates in the coming months.

Thanks for reading the Revue! We’ll be back with another edition in December.

—John & Terry Kovick Biskovich

Laguna Lachúa by Helena Oswald - www.flubisworld.com

Looking for getaways? With a mirror-like cenote surrounded by a rainforest, Laguna Lachuá in Alta Verapaz is a stunning destination (p16). Meanwhile, San Rafael Pie de la Cuesta in San Marcos offers a quetzal refuge, waterfalls and more (p86). It will be especially thriving this month with its annual feria.

Everyone has a unique story of what makes La Antigua Guatemala special. Did you know that American author and playwright Gore Vidal bought a place in Antigua 65 years ago? Joy Houston explains on page 64.

As for community service, the Integral Heart Foundation (p14) is making a big impact only two years after its founding. And let’s raise our glasses to a year’s worth of good work by Bartenders Without Borders (p108).

Meanwhile, the new Antigua International School, catering to children of Antigua’s diverse cultural and socio-economic population, is set to welcome its first students (p19).

This issue also honors a genteel old friend and longtime Antigua resident, Dr. Johnny Long, who passed away last month. Read about his remarkable life and legacy on page 80.

For celebrations and cultural events, check out the DateBook listings, and plan to celebrate Day of the Dead on Nov. 1.
With year-end approaching, the Revue team is mapping out our annual photo issue for January 2012. Photographers are invited to send their best Guatemala images—see page 32 for details.

—Matt Bokor

Flag bearer by Leonel Mijangos - EnAntigua.com

Also in this issue: Unicorns in Guatemala? Conservationist / photographer Thor Janson reports on his successful quest to document the creature, which he photographed in the cloud forest in the upper reaches of the Atitlán Volcano. See his story and photographic proof starting on page 18.

Speaking of proof, Ilegal Mezcal, a high-octane libation that pours forth from Café No Sé in La Antigua Guatemala, is catching on globally. Brendan Byrne, highly experienced in alcoholic beverages, traces the genesis of this elixir (page 64).

From Guatemala City, Anna-Claire Bevan takes us on a tour of the Guatemala Children’s Museum, a wonderland of hands-on, thought-provoking exhibits and activities for kids. And if you’ve ever wondered about the huge statue of a proud warrior near the airport, Anna-Claire explains it on page 36.

After writing last month about the ill-advised introduction of large-mouth bass into Lake Atitlán, Panajachel scribe Dwight Wayne Coop this month tells of another foreign invader making an impact on the lake.

Much more lies in the pages ahead. And check out DateBook for the art exhibits, concerts and special events coming up this month.

—Matt Bokor

From six students using three cheap plastic cameras, Fotokids has since given new perspectives and hope to hundreds of young people.

In this month’s cover story, Anna-Claire Bevan details Fotokids’ origins, challenges and successes, and we have numerous photos by the Fotokids students throughout the magazine. Congratulations, Nancy!

From Lake Atitlan, Dwight Wayne Coop chronicles a fish tale gone awry. The story dates back to 1958 when big-mouth bass were introduced to the lake and details the ensuing ecological breakdown.

For amazing nature photos, check out conservationist Thor Janson’s account of his trip deep into the Gallon Jug Rainforest of Belize, where he encountered an array of wildlife.

On a lighter note, we learn how two businessmen in La Antigua plotted to capture a most-wanted fugitive to reel in a million-dollar bounty. The scheme was a bust; U.S. authorities finally arrested the suspect in June.

We also have stories about the Santiaguito lava dome of the Western Highlands and INGUAT’s plan to increase Guatemala tourism, as well as two book alerts and a comprehensive list of cultural activities and special events in DateBook. Enjoy!

—Matt Bokor

Rabin Ajau hopeful, 2010 (by Thor Janson - www.bushmanollie.com)

Featuring some 80 contestants proudly dressed in regal traje, it’s among the most spectacular events of the Mayan world. Thor Janson attended last year’s coronation; his words and emotive photos are this month’s cover feature.

This month’s Revue also recognizes the 20th anniversary of the GOD’S CHILD Project, which is changing lives dramatically in Guatemala and internationally. Congratulations to Patrick Atkinson and your big-hearted staff and volunteers.

From the nation’s capital, Anna-Claire Bevan takes us on a tour of Paseo de La Sexta, where a total makeover has transformed gritty Sexta Avenida into a popular, pedestrian-friendly destination. While visiting Guatemala City, be sure to see the massive Relief Map—an amazingly precise scale model of Guatemala designed in 1905.

Destinations in the Western Highlands are featured this month, including a sprawling theme-park resort and an eco-tourism site founded by ex-guerillas. For a primer on the history and top sites of Quetzaltenango, hop aboard Tranvía de los Altos, a locomotive-like bus that circulates throughout the No. 2 city.

July 25 is a holiday in La Antigua Guatemala and several other cities that embrace Santiago (St. James) as their patron saint. Check out the DateBook for other events and activities on the calendar this month. Amazing to think we’re already halfway through 2011.

—Matt Bokor

Quetzaltenango central park. photo by Harry Díaz www.flikr.com/harrydiaz

The enigma of Maximón is the topic of Thor Janson’s article and photos. At odds with the Catholic Church for centuries, the cult of Maximón flourishes in northern Mesoamerica, with thousands of chapels in Guatemala alone.

With June comes Father’s Day as well as a new crop of interesting fruits in farmer’s markets across Guatemala. Kate Witt gives us a rundown on page 60.

Among the many NGOs making a difference here is Safe Passage, working with children and families in the Guatemala City dump. Volunteer Hannah Wallace Bowman provides her account on page 42.

Looking for an interesting daytrip that offers a little of everything near La Antigua? Catch a free shuttle to Finca Filadelfia. Tanya Hughes tells us what it’s like.

We also have stories on those interesting brooms made of royal palm, the monument to Nobel Laureate Miguel Ángel Asturias, the white-tailed deer, and an update on Habitat for Humanity—plus a long list of events, fairs and cultural activities in DateBook, so dig in.

—Matt Bokor

Semuc Champey by Freddy Murphy - www.freddymurphy.org

On page 14 is an inspiring story of hope. Rescued from violent homes or desperately poor family settings, the students at Esperanza Juvenil receive above-par schooling, nutritious meals and a solid chance for a lifetime of success.

The Peace Corps just celebrated its 50th anniversary, which is covered by Matt Bokor on page 21. There are also four anecdotal stories from the ranks.

This month’s menu also includes Alerts for two restaurants’ menu updates, and coverage of a store that is a shopper’s paradise for the casual cook as well as the professional restaurateur.

Of course we haven’t forgotten that special day for our beloved mothers (that means you, MamaLue). Dwight Wayne Coop delves into the cultivation of the roses that we give to express our love.

There’s lots more fun stuff to see and do if you keep flipping the pages. Here’s wishing you a great month of May.

The Next Generation photo by Leonel -Nelo- Mijangos (nelo.ws)

Not only does Antigua host the largest Easter celebrations in the Americas, it was here that Pedro Betancur would transform into Hermano Pedro; in 2002, he was canonized and became Santo Hermano Pedro, the first saint of Central America as well as the Canaries. This edition features his incredible story from shepherd to saint, researched and written by Joy Houston.

People and Projects spotlights From Houses to Homes and Niños de Guatemala—two organizations providing homes and education, two critical steps toward a future full of possibilities.

There is much more to read about this month in the Revue, both in print and online at www.revuemag.com.

—John & Terry Kovick Biskovich

Ceiba pentandra, Guatemala’s national tree (photo by Dr. Nicholas Hellmuth)

The influence of man on Manatees is the subject of conservationist/photographer Thor Janson’s article “Discovering the Mermaids.” Through his field notes we are reminded once again of the danger in which we have placed these gentle creatures.

Other subjects covered in this month’s issue include: medical tourism in Guatemala; the Men and Women in Action organization; romantic weddings in Antigua; new schools offering new opportunities for children; what to expect during Lent; delightful desserts; the ritual of absinthe; and when and where you can catch a ton of cultural events.

We would like to include a final adios to our good friend of many years, Walter White.

March also marks the Revue’s 19th anniversary. We gratefully acknowledge the confidence our advertisers have shown in us over these oh-so-many years, please know that we are still working hard for you. We would be nothing without our readers, and for your continued support we thank you profusely. And lastly, without our amazing Revue staff, we simply wouldn’t be.

Have a great month and may your adventures only be the good kind.

—John & Terry Kovick Biskovich

Dancer: part of the XI Paiz International Festival (photo by Eduardo Patino)

Everyone who coasted since Thanksgiving is enthusiastically sending e-mails with ideas, projects and goals for the New Year. To which I ask: What have you been drinking?

If it’s a toad-juice cocktail, no worries, as the lethal mix will shorten the to-do list. See what I mean in Dr. Nicholas Hellmuth’s article on ancient reverence of the toad (p12).

A lot’s going on with the big-hearted NGO teams in Guatemala. We especially welcome volunteers from Canada returning this month with the Guatemala Stove Project. One of the volunteers, Liz Ballantyne-Jackson, tells us about it (p38).

How many times have you seen the quote from author Aldous Huxley extolling the beauty of Lake Atitlán? (Are your eyes already glazing over?) Well, you’ve never seen it in the context that our Panajachel scribe, Dwight Wayne Coop, presents it in his Lake Views column (p96).

If you’re looking for a rural getaway, read Linda Green Roesch’s travelogue from the Sierra de los Cuchumatanes mountains, where the modern era has yet to arrive (p14).

After the holiday lull, the calendar’s filling up, so check out this month’s DateBook (p22). Of special note: The annual Paiz International Festival of Art and Culture gets under way on Feb. 11th with a reunion concert in La Antigua (p19).

Hello, Houston, we have liftoff. January’s over, here we go!

—Matt Bokor

She glances at the photo, and the pilot light of memory flickers in her eyes. —Frank Deford

Metropolitan Cathedral photograph by Waseem Syed - www.wsyed.com

Of course, it matters who’s operating the camera, and we could not be more thankful to the talented photographers who contributed to this “exhibition” of Guatemalan art. Many are represented throughout these pages, from the true professionals to the weekend enthusiasts. Unfortunately, we could not fit them all in, and some will appear in future issues.

Some of these photographs are thought-provoking, some are artful, some depict the grandeur of mother nature, some are poignant and some—like the one below of our dog—are simply amusing.

We hope you enjoy these images, and we wish you all the best in this new year.

—John & Terry Kovick Biskovich

Holiday Celebration (photo by Arturo Godoy - arturogodoy.com)

Elizabeth Bell fills us in on her favorite among the unique ceremonies of the Christmas season, while Joy Houston tells us about festivities honoring the Virgin of Guadalupe.

Need some holiday gift ideas? Jennifer Rowe took a whirlwind tour of La Antigua Guatemala shops to write a holiday gift guide. We also have a recipe for Guatemala’s holiday punch.

It’s not all about Christmas, though. Dr. Nicholas Hellmuth delves into ancient chocoholics and the symbols they left behind, and D. Wayne Coop fills us in on the spicy topic of chiles.

Meanwhile, Peter C. Meyer takes us on a bird watch, focusing on an unappreciated species.

Looking ahead to January, Jason Kennedy explains the ceremonies coming up in Chiquimula to honor the Black Christ. There’s much more in Datebook and throughout this month’s issue.

You also might notice a change in our personnel roster—me! I’ve recently returned to Antigua to become the Revue editor. My career includes nearly 20 years at The Associated Press and Miami Herald, and I’ve been affiliated with the Revue since 2002 as a writer, associate editor and copy editor.

It’s great to be back in Antigua. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

—Matt Bokor

The Resplendent Quetzal (photo by Thor Janson)

Through Janson’s writing, anecdotes and extraordinary photography, we get an exclusive glimpse into the mist-enshrouded realm of the cloud forest and its fascinating inhabitants. The most noted, revered and elusive of all is the Resplendent Quetzal. Kulkulkán. The Quetzal-Serpent. Guatemala’s national bird and the name of its money. The quetzal appears again and again throughout Maya tradition, lore and art. The Maya even used the exquisite feathers as currency.

Just as Thor has woven an image for us, we have woven his incredible stories and photographs throughout the magazine. For the story line just follow the …continued on page…. For his other photos, flip through the pages. You will find his biography on page 10.

We thank Thor for sharing his passion with us and we hope you enjoy this issue.

—John & Terry Kovick Biskovich

Landfall photo by Henning Sac Morales

Another animal gracing our pages is the noble peccary. We are excited to introduce this first of a new series for Revue by Dr. Nicholas Hellmuth, Sacred Animals & Exotic Tropical Plants.

For kids who like animals, the Minerva Zoo in Quetzaltenango hosts a Zoo Slumber Party that seems to be quite fun. Find out what it’s all about on page 21.

Do you believe in ghosts? Day of the Dead rounds out the month and we have several spirits to introduce you to; La Llorona, the Hungry Ghost and The Ghosts of San Juan Chamelco. Hope we don’t spook you.

October would not be complete without Giant Kites and we have photos and an article to prove it. We also have included a Profile and Book Alert, and a Community Enterprise worth checking out.

The Revue staff would like to congratulate two of our long-time advertisers on their 35th anniversary, a very impressive feat. To the Shakespeare Pub in Guatemala City and La Fonda de la Calle Real in Antigua, we salute you heartily, and please keep up the good work.

Thanks for reading Revue. We hope October finds you in good “spirits.”

—John & Terry Kovick Biskovich

One of the treasures recently uncovered at El Diablo (photo by ArturoGodoy.com)

Writer Kara Andrade gives us the inside story of this rare and important discovery, with some excellent images from on-site photographer Arturo Godoy. Godoy’s photograph on the cover is the head of a lidded fragmented vessel that has been nicknamed the “Dragon Head.”

September 15 is Guatemala’s Independence Day, and we offer two articles on this subject. Elizabeth Bell and Dwight Wayne Coop cover different angles of the history of Guatemala’s struggle for freedom.

Judy Cohen brings us the backstory of La Antigua’s Parque Central. From a blank square on the original town drawings 467 years ago to today’s recently refurbished make over, the park has been through a series of changes.

Panajachel is hosting the 18th annual Cycle Messenger World Championships, which is a pretty big deal, and the whole scoop is on page 92.

There is plenty more to read and see inside this issue, including some great cultural events listed in DateBook.

We hope your September is filled with fun adventures and we wish Guatemala a very Happy Birthday!

—John & Terry Kovick Biskovich

Ciudad Vieja Cathedral (photo by Rudy A. Girón)

We have some other great Photo Ops this month, three of our favorite photographers share with us their special views. Iván Castro at Lake Atitlán; Mario Beaulieu at Monterrico and Harry Díaz in Quetzaltenango.

Farming organically has become a standard option these days. On page 62 you can read Diane Carofino’s interview with local organic farmer, Alex Kronick, and find out what exactly are the requirements to sell “organic” produce. Free recipes included.

Also in this month’s pages: we find out why there are mermaids in Antigua; why Tapachula seems like it’s a part of Guatemala; what Oliver Thornwhistle’s favorite tree is; why John Heaton misses the old days; and why we should take heed of the Legend of Pozo Vivo.

Check out DateBook for some great art show inaugurations as well as plenty of theater and musical events. The 2nd Festival de Música Antigua will be at various venues from August 14 through 22.

August 15th is Guatemala City’s patron saint day. All month the city will be celebrating in honor of the Virgen de la Asunción, including many events in the historic center.

We truly hope you enjoy your August.

—John & Terry Kovick Biskovich

Cover: Jungle green by Thor Janson

July brings celebrations all month long in honor of Antigua’s patron saint. On the opposite page local historian Elizabeth Bell answers the question Who was St. James? You can find information on the Santiago festivities in DateBook and on page 9. Check our smart-phone-friendly website for updates (revuemag.com).

Throughout the magazine you will find a sampling of memorable photographs taken by a friend of the Revue (and many others) who passed away last month. Atitlán’s Gerald (Jerry) Edward Smith is fondly remembered in Border Crossing on page 100.

Also in this issue… Joy Houston on Guatemalan Coffee, Bob Makransky on Guatemalan history, Kathryn Rousso on Guatemalan gourds and Dianne Carofino on Guatemalan food. Feel free to browse.

Protecting the Past (photo courtesy of Dr. Richard Hansen)

Matt Bokor takes us on two quick side trips: tranquil El Remate and the mysterious Caves of Actún Kan.

We have more great photos from some excellent photographers including Iván Cas-tro, Mario Beaulieu and Harry Díaz.

Making learning fun describes our two Spanish lessons. Guillermo Zuleta asks the question (and gives the answers) in How well do you know Chapín Spanish? Dwight Wayne Coop treats us to a new installment of the missed-by-many series The Zen of.

Fun and informative are the buzzwords for our columnists: Oliver Thornwhistle, Elizabeth Bell and Karmen Guevara.

Plenty to do on the cultural front, just check out the DateBook. If you’re a fan, be sure to attend the Third Annual World Archeological Convention starting June 18.

If you’re going to be outside of Guatemala and want to stay in touch, we have options. You can subscribe to Revue via RSS feeds, or, download the entire Revue in PDF and read it offline at your leisure, or, read articles, view photos and leave comments directly on our website, or, flip through pages of the Virtual Revue online with Flash. You can also connect with us on Facebook or follow current cultural events through Revue News Tweets. On our homepage you can find the Online Guatemalan Business Directory where you will be one click away from hundreds of useful websites including hotels, restaurants, services and shops. Just dial www.REVUEmag.com.

Enjoy your June.

—John & Terry Kovick Biskovich

Roadside attraction (photo by Fernando Ismael García)

Ever wonder how much of Guatemala you can see in just a couple of days? Turning a short visit into a long-lasting memory is entirely possible, case in point Guatemala in 90 Hours. If you’re ready for some international travel, You Can Get There From Here, Guatemala to Machu Picchu offers an interesting historical backdrop accompanied by some excellent modern day trip tips! From storytelling to travel, next up, what to wear in 2010? Welcome to the Era of Nice Paca Finds! If you’re a shopper and you haven’t been to the paca, you’re missing some great bargains.

The People and Project highlight this month is Friends of the Deaf; Thornwhistle takes on Luciérnagas, Here Come Guatemala’s Fireflies! E-Thinking of You makes a great case for reaching out via the internet and Guate Life, Dead or Alive makes a great case for staying out of the trámite lines! Cooking with Love is Spicing it Up with Asmena Pankanea and Sensuous Guatemala features Sunshine. FYI, Ask Elizabeth covers the new municipal construction at the east entrance to Antigua, the much needed parking lot and an update on the World-Class Destination Program.

In honor of Mother’s Day in May we have a great assortment of humorous and serious quotations about mothers and motherhood throughout this issue.

Thanks for reading the Revue in print, we’re also fun, free and informative online at www.revuemag.com. Watch for daily postings plus a trailer of Looking for Palladin premiering in Guatemala City this month.

—John & Terry Kovick Biskovich

Story time photo by Jeffrey Jay Foxx

Other photographers gracing our pages this month include Ange Bourda, Ana Aguilar, Eny Roland Hernández, Rudy Girón, César Tián, Jack Houston, Brent Holmes, George Carofino and Michael Sherer. We thank them for sharing their wonderful images with us.

We have some excellent writers to thank this month as well. Submitted for your approval: El Mirador– Champion of All; Brent Holmes reports on his trip, getting a VIP tour from Dr. Richard D. Hansen who has spent 25 years working the site. Joy Houston brings the past alive again with Faithful Treasures; restoring La Merced Monastery in Guatemala City. Food expert Dianne Carofino shares her lessons in Market Management, exploring the stalls at the Antigua mercado. Coffee-hater Dwight Wayne Coop aptly expounds on The Objective Virtues of Guatemalan Coffee. We find Thornwhistle in the garden campaigning for the ubiquitous Bougainvillea as the national flower. Michael Sherer gives a great argument as to why the ancient Mayan ball game is his favorite new sport in Whack, Thunk and Oof! Raconteur Ken Veronda reminds us to stop and smell the Seasonal Scents.

For readers of Spanish, Guillermo Monsanto writes a touching piece, Nuestros Ángeles, about sculptress Rae Frese Leeth and her upcoming exposition.

We wish you a Happy April.

—John & Terry Kovick Biskovich

Cucurucho by Iván Castro ivancastroguatemala.blogspot.com

Jumping ahead a couple of centuries, we hope that you enjoy this year’s anniversary retrospective featuring: The Birth of a Camioneta; The First Wave; Sensuous Guatemala, Semana Santa; A Linguist in the Mercado; Coyol Bouquets; and The Language of Corn. We are grateful to these authors and to so many others whose work has graced the pages of the Revue for all these years. And to a host of talented photographers, thank you for sharing the fruits of your labor with visual images that move us from tears to laughter to awe and inspiration.

The magazine is fueled by Revue advertisers who trust in our efforts to promote their businesses, and of course by readers in print and online who give us feedback and encouragement—we are most appreciative! Last but never least, Revue staffers, thank you for your loyalty and commitment to the magazine.

A quick change of pace: what to do this month? We have some interesting DateBook highlights: 13-Threads presents an International Women’s Day celebration; theater: “What Does a Dumpit Look Like?”; plus Festival Atitlán, workshops, excursions, art shows, music and more!

This edition is dedicated to the memory of Bill Paddock and Jane Binaris.

—John & Terry Kovick Biskovich

Caldo de Pata (Photo by Rudy Girón/AntiguaDailyPhoto.com)

The decisions become even tougher when there are so many wonderful eateries to choose from. The Revue can help you with your quest. Throughout the year, we will be publishing various “Dining Samplers” from restaurants around the country.

In February we start with the Antigua Dining Sampler. Presented are over 80 palatable possibilities, from traditional Guatemalan breakfasts to complex world-class desserts. With over 40 restaurants represented, we’ve also included some beverages and appetizers. ¡Buen provecho!

If you have some particularly favorite dining choices to include in our future issues, we would love to get your “feed”back at dining@revuemag.com.

Of course, there are plenty of other things to do this month besides eat. Included in our pages is a Walking Tour of “Old” Pana; an excursion to a young winery and where you can taste the fruits of their first vintage; a heads-up on next month’s Festival Atitlán; some Valentine’s Day musings; Photo Ops from Guatemala City’s central market and from the beaches of El Salvador; and there are always plenty of fun options in the DateBook cultural calendar, including a few very interesting and interactive charity events.

If you missed seeing the 7th Annual Revue Photo Issue in January, it’s all online at www.revuemag.com. Enjoy February!

—John & Terry Kovick Biskovich

Fútbol Playa —Guillermo Rafael Cuyún Figueroa

—John & Terry Kovick Biskovich

Tradiciones al rojo vivo (photo by Ricardo Gándara)

In keeping with December traditions, DateBook includes a Christmas bazaar; a theatrical performance of How the Grinch Stole Christmas; listings for Quema del Diablo (Burn the Devil), celebrations and parades to honor the Virgen de Concepción; Christmas concerts, an opportunity to be a part of a Posada Navideña; and Día de la Virgen de Guadalupe celebrations. In addition there are art shows, lectures, musical events, workshops and much, much more.

For book lovers we have “Book Alerts;” “People and Projects” presents Thirteen Threads; and Anthony Brindisi gives us some holiday gift buying possibilities—all handmade by the women of San Rafael Chilascó.

There’s still more, “Great Escapes,” the final in the El Pilar series; “Sports”—and how giving, gives back; “Health Issues” reports on devastating statistics that are offset by dedicated people and their organizations who’ve found some workable solutions.

We dedicate this edition to Dr. John Cheatham, 1940-2009. He leaves the world a better place and forever an example of selflessness and service.

—John & Terry Kovick Biskovich

Banco de Guatemala building Photo by Freddy Murphy

We have included for your reading pleasure contributions from several writers. Ana Flinder tells us where we can find November’s patron saint day celebrations for St. Catherine and St. Andrew. Dwight Wayne Coop reports the latest updates concerning the debates over the proper response to Lake Atitlán’s ecological future, and what’s being done now.

Kathie Friedley offers a Guide for Architectural Tourists. One of Laura McNamara’s pieces this month is part 2 of the El Pilar habitat. Ken Veronda challenges us to Find the Heliotrope, Dr. Karmen discusses home, a Book Alert by Dianne Carafino covers Cooking with Audrey and DateBook Highlights detail upcoming cultural events.

As well as the impressive photograph on our cover this month, we have included more of Guatemalan photographer Freddy Murphy’s camera work on pages 42, 64 and 72 in a continuation of our Photo Op series. Murphy won 2nd place in last month’s Chirmol City Contest with a series of four photos, including the cover photo.

A reminder to photographers: if you would like to participate in the Revue 7th Annual Photo Issue (January, 2010) please submit your photos to photos@revuemag.com no later than December 10, 2009.

We’ve moved our Antigua offices to 6a calle poniente #2, a block south of the park. Stop by and say hi if you’re in the neighborhood. In the meantime, we hope you have a terrific November.

Lift-off (photo by César Tián)

Lots of fun stuff happening in October, the DateBook is overflowing: art exhibits, photo workshops, theater productions, discussions and lectures, expositions, book and film presentations, festivals, dance groups and classes, social gatherings, halloween parties and plenty of live music.

In his Lake Views column, Dwight Wayne Coop gives us a peculiar theory on why October 12 is not “Colón Day.” Ignacio Ochoa gives us some tips and history of traditional kite making in Santiago Sacatepéquez. Judy Cohen’s second installment on honey covers the healing aspects of this amazing food.

El Pilar is a beautiful natural habitat just outside of Antigua, and we explore it via Laura McNamara’s writing. McNamara also interviewed Guatemala personality Vida Amor De Paz for this issue.

Revue columnists Ken Veronda writes a picture describing the joys of the kites of October and Karmen Guevara encourages us to “Become the Master.”

May your October be better than what you expected and we’ll see you next month.

—John & Terry Kovick Biskovich

Libre al viento (Photo by Rudy Girón/AntiguaDailyPhoto.com)

September also brings the month-long FOTO▶30 Festival. This series of over 30 exhibitions and workshops spotlights photography with events country-wide.

Datebook starts on page 24 and you can find information about these and many other celebrations, lectures, exhibitions, conferences and concerts happening in September.

Other topics in this issue include some destinations worth traveling to, the Tzantizotz Nature Reserve and Central America’s tallest waterfall, Salto de Chilascó. We cross over to the culinary side with an introduction to the versatile Güisquil, including a tasty recipe. The state of the honey bee in Guatemala is also discussed in connection with the food we eat.

Dwight Wayne Coop reveals what his research reaped about the “real” Independence Day, and he brings us news from a highland hospital that reduced its paperwork while improving its water supply.

Laura McNamara’s contributions this month include the funding problems a local rock climbing club is having, and how a film crew is working to keep Guatemala’s fledgling film industry alive.

Panajachel’s Patron Saint is celebrated in October and we’ve included a piece about what to expect with some photos of last year’s feria.

We hope you enjoy and find useful the Revue this month. There is plenty to read and things to do on every printed page as well as our digitized pages online.

—John & Terry Kovick Biskovich