1. Financially things are still tough.
   • The peso is in flux, which creates multiple layers of complexity to doing financial transactions.
   • Inflation is on the rise: prices have risen almost everywhere (except transport) to match NY prices. According to my cousin, wages have gone up proportionally.
   • Coin crisis: You need change to ride the bus, only about 30 US cents, but coins are scarce. So much so that they can be sold for profit. No one has change.
   • It’s very expensive to buy electronics or clothing.
2. Police have improved, but can be potentially useless.
   • People aren’t so afraid of being kidnapped or harassed by police.
   • They have patrols now, if infrequent, and a 911 number like NY.
   • On the other hand, they answer directly to the Federal Government, causing problems. For example, a friend’s home intrusion alarm went off. When he got home a rep from the alarm company met him at the door, but refused to go in. There was a police man on the corner whom they approached, who also refused to go in. Aparently, he was being paid to watch that corner.
3. Security is still a problem.
   • Stickups remain common. A friend of ours was robbed at knife point while we were there.
   • People are still afraid to open store front businesses due to the high rate of stickups.
   • You have to LOCK all doors. Whether you’re inside or out.
   • When out in public, you must keep a close eye on your bag and personal effects. “Choros” (pick pockets) remain abundant.
   • On the other hand, kidnappings are now uncommon.
   • People decide not to live afraid.
4. The middle class is firmly right leaning.
5. Culturally, Bs As remains vital, mostly.
   • Cafe and night life remain vibrant.
   • The state of the art of Graffitti is maturing.
   • The art of drawing is well respected. You see many interesting sketches in the daily papers and in advertising.
   • Dogshit remains a problem.
   • While building remains strong, often, unfortunately to the detriment of beautiful historic architecture, most of the city is still very charming. The southern climate helps a lush abundance of old life trees thrive.
   • The “Asado” (barbeque) remains an essential stamp of hospitality. This time I tried “chinchulines” (lungs), kind gross, and “molleja” (a fatty, bacon-like throat gland), delicious! I passed on the raviolis de “seso” (brain).

Conclusion: Despite all it’s charm, it’s still dysfunctional on many levels. Under the right conditions however, it is still livable.