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Jaltemba Sol...the heartbeat of the Riviera Nayarit

February 20, 2009

Watch out for Kimberly (Photo by Lilianne)

 

Most Wanted Fugitive Captured in La Penita
Mark Bertoncini - United States Marshals

 
 

On Valentine's Day, Kirk Swaggerty, a fugitive from the United States who was the Most Wanted Man by the Illinois Department of Corrections, and had warrants for Homicide, and Home Invasion in Genoa, Il, was arrested in La Penita, Nayarit.

Swaggerty was living in Rincon de Guayabitos under the alias Adan Castellanos-Smith. He was a regular patron at Crazy Nelly's, and Matejas Bar and Grill in Guayabitos, and at Hinde and Jaime's in La Penita. At the time of his capture Swaggerty had been on the run for almost 5 years.

A joint investigation by the United States Marshals Service, the DeKalb County Sheriff's office, and the Mexican Federal authorities - AFI, as well as the Mexican Immigration Department, led to his capture and deportation from Mexico.

He was flown from Guadalajara to Los Angeles, where he was taken into custody by the U.S. Marshals, and is awaiting trial on murder and home invasion charges.

In addition to US Law Enforcement, AFI, and Mexican Immigration, two American citizens, living in Puerto Vallarta and Rincon de Guayabitos were instrumental in the capture of this fugitive. They wish to remain anonymous, but knew the fugitive by his alias name, Adan Castellanos-Smith, or Adam, as he was called at Crazy Nelly's bar.

These two individuals spent many hours watching for Swaggerty, and lots of emails and phone calls to myself and the US Marshals office in Mexico City, helping to solidify his location, and his known hangouts. The US Marshals greatly appreciates their efforts, and are submitting them for a substantial reward.


Kirk Swaggerty seemed to walk right into our community and even showed up several times in the Jaltemba Sol...here he is seen celebrating with many of our small community,  who were unaware of his past, at the popular La Penita restaurant Hinde and Jaimes,.  Under the alias Adam, Kirk is sitting at the bar with the baseball cap on and drink in front of him.  The group was abgout to on a "magical Mystery tour" to a waterfall. .

Bill Bell Jaltemba Sol Photograph  www.jaltembasol.com

 

 

 

Photograph by Bill Bell

Congratulations Mimi and Mario!

Photographs by Bill Bell

 

 

Mexico News

Mexico’s Oaxaca is a delight for families

I pop the toasted grasshopper right in my mouth. It tastes kind of like bacon and is seasoned with chili and salt. Not bad! My kids wrinkle their noses. …To Read Article Click Here

Cookbook author Diana Kennedy shares her knowledge of Mexican cuisine

Diana Kennedy is an exacting taskmaster. She wants the jicama cut "nicely" in uniform sticks and orders the mole verde blended once more to achieve a smoother consistency …To Read Article Click Here

Retirement in Mexico

After retirement, MaryBeth DiCecco became disenchanted with life in the United States. So she settled down in Mexico instead. …To Read Article Click Here

Gary Lemon's Unlikely Underwater Adventures

For 14 years, Professor of Economics and Management Gary D. Lemon has traveled with Winter Term students to Cozumel, an island 12 miles off Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula. …To Read Article Click Here

South Africa and Mexico are set to advance South-South relations by consolidating bilateral political, economic and trade relations

South Africa and Mexico are set to advance South-South relations by consolidating bilateral political, economic and trade relations, when Foreign Affairs Minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma meets with Mexican Secretary of Foreign Affairs Patricia Espinosa on Thursday…To Read Article Click Here

Banamex upgrades Mexico's Alfa

Banamex said in a report released on Tuesday that it upgraded Mexico's Alfa to "hold" from "sell" on the assumption that the market has already priced in a round of bad news for the conglomerate. …To Read Article Click Here

Research and Markets: Mexico's Food Industry Has Taken a Recent Hit after the Country Temporarily Suspended Meat Exports to the US. Read More inside the Q1

Our Mexico Food Drink Report provides independent forecasts and competitive intelligence on Mexico's food and drink industry. …To Read Article Click Here

AeroMexico adding ATL-Cancun serviceFree Spanish Lessons

 “Customers have asked us to add Atlanta-Cancun flights to our schedule …To Read Article Click Here

 Jessica Alba Makes Off to Mexico

Taking a break from all of her responsibilities in Los Angeles, Jessica Alba was spotted living it up in …To Read Article Click Here

 Surviving Spring Break for adults

The beach was pristine. The clear blue water of the lagoon-style pool beckoned. The food was fabulous and the room exquisite. …To Read Article Click Here

Bluffs artist's work part of expo in Mexico

Council Bluffs artist Margaret La Bounty returned to and participated in the invitation-only World Art Vision Expo in Cancun, Mexico, recently…To Read Article Click Here

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pucker up Mexico City

As they awaited for the appointed moment, city workers in cupid wings offered hugs, teenage boys carried signs volunteering their kissing services and couples practiced openly in a country that surprises many with its pervasive public displays of affection ….More info Click Here!

Much of USA's Valentine's candy came from Mexico

Much of U.S. Chocolate Comes From Across the Border….More info Click Here! 

Kissing ban gets Mexico hot under the collar

A town famous for an Alley of the Kiss passes a law against public displays of affection, sparking a passionate outcry. ….More info Click Here! 

Aztec 'warrior' mass grave found

Archaeologists have found a mass grave in Mexico City with at least 49 human skeletons dating from Spain's conquest of the Aztecs in the 16th Century. ….More info Click Here!

Mexico Travel TipsFree Spanish Lessons

Visitors love Mexico for the culture, beaches, and activities. But your first step is getting there. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for a Mexican getaway. ….More info Click Here! 

Mariachi History is Made at the Grammys

Cindy Shea Founder & Trumpeter; Mariachi Divas. The mariachi is unique not only because it is an all female mariachi, but it's members are made up of women from all ethnic and cultural backgrounds….More info Click Here!

Mexico's Pemex Seeks Bids For 2 Desulfurization Plant

Dow Jones)- State-run oil monopoly Petroleos Mexicanos has called a tender for two desulfurization plants as part of a program to improve the quality ….More info Click Here!

Mexico peso, stocks rebound on US mortgage aid plan

Recasts, adds trader's quote and background) Mexico's peso firmed on Thursday on news the U.S. government is hammering out a program to help troubled homeowners, while stocks fell, ….More info Click Here!

Fundraiser for Eye Operation

Yenifer Corey Torres Miramontes

at Bavarian Garden

Sunday 8 March 4, 2009

Tickets 150 pesos

Includes Eva's Buffet

Live Music with the Perez Brothers

Free drink

Call for Reservations 327=274-2136

 

Jomie's Thank You...
 
As many of you know, Kenny and I have made the communities of Guayabitos and La Penita a major part of our lives for over 20 years. In a community made up of people from all walks of life, income levels and ethnic backgrounds, Kenny always seemed to find a way to be part of each group.  While on the surface he was a classic gringo, his background as a common working man made it easy for him to be part of the Mexican community, also.  He dearly loved the simplicity of Mexico.  I guess what I'm trying to say, with the help of my family, is that even being close to so many of you reading this, I truly had no idea the impact Kenny had made on local citizens and area visitors....at least not until it truly overwhelmed me during the lovely recent music festival and fundraiser, and of course the horseshoe tournament that followed.  When folks come up and explain how Kenny had changed their life or break down and cry just by talking about him, and it's people I've never really remembered meeting, you just know that this is what was meant by the phrase "pass it on."

By necessity and background I'm a very pragmatic person, but please, let there be no doubt, how much I humbly and with great gratitude thank all of the local and far-flung community of friends and extended family for what they've provided to me and my immediate family at this sad point in our lives.  I know and appreciate that their support is as much to show their love and respect for Kenny as it is help with my medical expenses.

Jomie

 

 

 

For Sale Boat

14' Livingston on Trailer

30 HP Yamaha

$1500 USD

See Ken Lot 65 La Penita RV Park

or Kennk@telus.net

 


 

Russ Krube (left) and Dave Sanders with some of the orphans from the Tepic Casa de Ninos Bill Bell Photograph

 

Russ Krube (left) and Dave Sanders with some of the orphans from the Tepic Casa de Ninos

 

A fish catching miracle in Mexico
Bill Bell, Special To North Shore News
Photography by Bill Bell and Larry Baron

 

Bill Bell is a political columnist for a Canadian Newspaper, the North Shore News.  He lives and writes in La Penita de Jaltemba, Nayarit, Mexico

 

I try not to write much about my other life; the life I have in the small Mexican coastal village of La Penita de Jaltemba, 60 kilometers north of Puerto Vallarta.   Still once in while this cynical and somewhat jaded 54 year old ex politician/journalist/lobbyist (what an awful combination) comes across a human interest story that will bring a tear even to this hardened columnist.

Casa de Ninos dormatories

La Penita is located on the small Jaltemba Bay on the newly named Riviera Nayarit coast. Mexico is a strange land and in the state of Nayarit, some things just don’t make sense to the thousands of Canadians and Americans who make this piece of paradise their winter home.

  Casa de Ninos children peek through classromm doorway Bill Bell Photography

When you walk down the cobblestoned streets and peer in the open doorways you will find Mexican children that are well loved, hugged, kissed, and doted upon.  Yet travel up into the Sierra Madres coastal mountains to the state capitol of Tepic and you will notice abandoned children scrounging the streets and landfills for anything of value.   Much like the homeless now found throughout Canada and America, they sleep under bridges and in abandoned buildings. The big difference here is these are children as young as four and five years old, many forced out on the street because they were physically and sexually abused.

 

Both the federal and state governments are trying to solve this problem, but they are a far cry from having the resources to keep all of these children off the street.  Christian organizations have stepped up to the plate to offer a secular solution such as the orphanage Casa de Ninos.

 

Amazingly Casa de Ninos was started 40 years ago by a prison Minister named Dr. Frank Gonzales who found young children living in the Tepic Prison.Fishin Mission on Aguamilpa  Bill Bell Photography

 

“While ministering in the prison in Tepic in 1968, Gonzales saw several little boys among the inmates,” said now director, Russ Krube, originally from Minnesota, “When he questioned the warden, he was told that the boys were homeless street children. Since there was no children's home in the entire state of Nayarit, they had no choice but to put the boys in with the adult prisoners.”

 

Today accordingDavid Snaders and youing orphan girl “She is nine years old and she cannot speak either the Indian dialect or Spanish language properly. Our staff is not trained to handle that but we do our best.” to Krube, the orphanage handles between 22 and 35 abandoned and in most cases abused children. But even then because of resources, their screening process prevents helping the children that have become too hardened by the streets of Tepic.  

 

“We are unable to equip and train our staff to handle the long term street kids or help as much as we should with the ones with special needs,” Krube said, pointing to a young Mexican girl whose parents, living in the isolated surrounding mountains never talked to her.  “She is nine years old and she cannot speak either the Indian dialect or Spanish language properly. Our staff is not trained to handle that but we do our best.”

The orphanage offers primary schooling, beds and a kitchen and large playground.  It is clean and well run, but upon closer look one can see it is in desperate need of funding. 

 

“We are always in need of something,” Krube says pointing out the need for new beds, paint, computers and basic supplies. The list is long.  “Our goal is to get the families back together, but that is not always possible. Children can spend their entire childhood here.”

David Sanders at the helm of of one of his bass boats  Bill Bell Photography

Funding comes from American and Canadian Christian organizations, but the most unique method comes from an extraordinary man. Only in Mexico could an architect from Oregon build a bass fishing lodge as means to fund an orphanage.

 

David Sanders came to Casa de Ninos six years ago through his Christian organization as a volunteer to help. Once there he realized he had to try and do something more than just a few weeks of handiwork.

Sanders came up with the concept of Scenic moutains along the reservoir  Bill Bell Photographybuilding a bass fishing lodge on the newly dammed Santiago River, Aguamilpa reservoir is located in a remote part of Nayarit just 60 kilometers north east of Tepic.  Avid bass fishermen from the United States and Canada would come and 25 per cent of the proceeds would go towards the maintenance of the orphanage. He would name it the Fishinmission.

 

 

“This Mexican bass factory is best known for providing hours of non-stop bass catching action that

at times can be truly amazing. While double digit bass are becoming more and more available in this relatively new reservoir with the lake record well over 13 lbs, it is the sheer numbers of solid quality bass, (in the 2 to 6 lb range) that have given this lake its reputation,” Sanders says proudly.

 

It has been an expensive process for Sanders, but he believes that his hard work will pay off and help give the orphanage the funding it needs to continue it good works.  Looking at the dramatic and inspiring views of the reservoir from the Palapa Lodge, one can see why Sanders would see god’s hand directing his work here in Mexico.

 

Sanders lodge is a located on the Lake and can only be reached by boat. HisCharlie Hanshaw with one of the many bass caught this day   Bill Bell Photography two fishing Arthur Bill Bellboats and fishing gear are top line gear.

 

“We did a lot of research in order to determine the most spacious, comfortable, and best all around boat to spend three days on the water in. We are confident that you will appreciate the smooth ride, comfortable seats, and large casting decks on our Carolina Skiffs. All of our boats are powered by quiet 75 HP 4 – stroke engines,” Sanders said.

 

Larry, Charlie and Rod joined me for a two day adventure.  The first day we drove to Tepic where Charlie and Larry played golf at the Tepic course. Rod and I joined Jim birdman Thompson to visit the Orphanage.  Sierra Madres Mountains    Bill Bell Photography

 

Jim later led us out to Aquamilpas where we launched one of the boats and traveled through the scenic reservoir where we greeted by David Sanders.    That night we camped under the palapa...no bugs, great stories and even starchoice tv.  The palapa has an excellent bar and seating area.  And modern washrooms . 

 

Next morning after a great breakfast we took off fishing, a truly great  experience with David  leading us to some great fishing spots on the lake.

 

As for the fishing, we caught 49 bass in just under 5 hours. 

 

You can reach David Sanders at http://www.fishinmissionadventures.com/

You can reach Russ Krube at   http://www.casadeninos.org/

 

   

MOST WANTED

We would like to thank everyone that came to see us last sunday at the BUCERIUS GARDENS....in Bucerius...
As some of our band members are leaving...sunday Feb 22  will be our last day to play ....one till 5 Vallarta time
look forward to see everyone back with your friends....
BEST HAMBURGERS....
Hudd for Most Wanted
 

  

The drawing for the winning ticket for the Stitchin
Senoras quilt  on Saturday,  Valentine's Day.  The winner was Yvonne
Trottier,  #113, Mar y Sol,  Guayabitos.  The other photo shows some of the
ladies of the group and the quilt shows up  more.  The Senoras wish to thank
those people, in three countries,  who so generously supported their efforts
to assist local schools through the purchase of tickets.

Thanks to Jaltemba Sol for your coverage of this effort,
 

 


  • Motorcycle Treck for Breast Cancer

    Hi Bill, and Dot

    I am Tannis, my knick name is Mexitana here in Mexico.
    I live in Guayabitos and Apri I leave for Florida and ride a motorcycle across the USA, to my home in Vancouver Island.
    This is the second year I will be doing it. The first Year it was to raise money for Cancer.
    This year is for Breast Cancer... With all that is has been going on in the area, clinics and all. I am asking if you wouldn't
    mind putting my fundraiser in your newspaper.
    Here is the link if you wouldn't mind.
    Thanks in advance.
    Tannis

  •  


    Mattress For sale

    Brand New Double Quality Mattress (firm) for sale for 1500 pesos OBO.

    We have a brand new, quality (firm) double mattress for sale for 1500 pesos OBO. Will also consider trade for two used adult bicycles in good condition with sturdy tires, or a small used kayak.

    If interested please contact us at 327 274-3516 or via email at christina.stobbs@gmail.com

    Thank you

    Christina & Robert Stobbs

     

    Colchón doble brandnew de la calidad (firma) para la venta para 1500 Pesos OBO.

     Tenemos brandnew, colchón doble (firme) de la calidad para la venta para 1500 Pesos OBO. La voluntad también considera el comercio para dos bicicletas usadas del adulto en buenas condiciones con los neumáticos robustos, o un kayak usado pequeño. 

    Si está interesado por favor éntrenos en contacto con en 327 274-3516 o vía el email en christina.stobbs@gmail.com le agradecen

    Christina y Roberto Stobbs

     

    Wanted to Rent

    Dear Editor,
      I'm enjoying tremendously my subscription to Jaltemba Sol.  Thanks for creating such a great community-based information resource.  I am traveling to Nayarit at the end of the month and hope to stay in the area until the end of March.  I am a retired school teacher so I have limited funding.  I would like to rent a small, clean place within walking distance to the beach.  I can spend $250 USD per month.  It doesn't have to be fancy.  I actually prefer that it's not.  I speak Spanish so my landlords could be a local family.  I'm hoping that you or your readers might be able to help me out with some possible rentals.  Your little corner of the world seems to be an ideal place to rest, relax and write.
    Gracias,
    Tammy


     


    Mexico's Calderon Raps Billionaire Slim on Economy
    Noel Randewich & Armando Tovar - Reuters
    go to original


     

     
    In this file photo, Carlos Slim speaks during a panel discussion at the Clinton Global Initiative Annual Meeting, Thursday, Sept. 27, 2007, in New York. The New York Times Co. says it has approved a $250 million investment by the Mexican telecommunications billionaire. (AP/Jason DeCrow)
     
    Mexico City - Mexican President Felipe Calderon took a swipe at billionaire Carlos Slim this week, saying people who have benefited most should give back during hard times, after the magnate warned of dire economic trouble.

    Calderon's government has been slow to acknowledge the U.S. economic slump is pushing Mexico toward recession and Slim upset the government this week by warning Mexico is lurching towards a deep recession and mass unemployment.

    "We are all obliged to support Mexico, particularly in these difficult times, and especially those who benefited most from this great nation," said Calderon, whose popularity will be tested in mid-term congressional elections in July.

    Slim, ranked the world's second-richest man, was born to a Lebanese immigrant and made millions buying up struggling companies and turning them into profitable cash cows.

    Mexico's economy is expected to shrink around 1 percent this year because of a slump in U.S. demand for manufactured exports like cars and refrigerators.

    Hoping to limit the effect of the U.S. recession, Calderon has frozen fuel prices and freed up funds to help factories avoid layoffs, as well as other measures.

    Slim built his fortune with dominant Mexican telephone operator Telmex (TELMEXL.MX) (TMX.N), which he bought from the government in the 1990s and turned into one of Latin America's most successful companies.

    Government officials have accused Slim of exaggerating the depth of the economic drop-off. Labor Minister Javier Lozano challenged Slim on Tuesday to guarantee that no workers would lose their jobs at Telmex or America Movil (AMXL.MX) (AMX.N), the leading cellphone operator that he also controls.

    Mexico's finance ministry forecasts the economy will not grow in 2009, although officials have said they will probably further reduce that outlook.

    Slim is often accused of stifling competition in Mexico and retarding the country's growth through his dominance of the telecom industry.

    Hurt by the economic slowdown and a violent drug war, support for Calderon's National Action Party, or PAN, is slipping, according to a poll released this week.

     


    Gone Coastal: From Guadalajara to Barra with No Reservations
    Jan Baumgartner - PVNN

     

     
    A native Californian, Jan Baumgartner is a freelance writer dividing her time between surviving in Maine and living in Mexico.
     
    The Ambivalent Optimist

    When I told my mother I’d be taking an impromptu bus trip from San Miguel to Guadalajara and onto the Costa Alegre (Happy Coast) I could hear her cringe on the other end of the phone. The word happy eluded her and instead she heard only death wish. "Is it safe?" she rattled more than once, not unlike Lawrence Olivier in Marathon Man.

    "Don’t worry, mom," I reassured her, "I’ll be taking a series of rusted and dangerous toxic fume belching buses through lawless lands rife with gun toting bandits and fun loving drug lords who like to play hide the body part in the barrel and have a quirky affinity for decapitation and I’m sure there will be at least one dirty old man in the back of the bus near the toilet if they have a toilet and he’ll only be wearing a poncho and black socks with mismatched sandals and we have no reservations nor do we have any real destination or plan and we’re carrying scads of cash but I’m sure I’ll be just fine even though they don’t maintain the buses and they drive with flat tires and no brakes on potholed mountain passes and coastal cliffs at speeds that top 100 miles per hour and the drivers love to play chicken especially when chickens are crossing the road and they’re known to wear hip flasks filled with 180 proof tequila as do the bus drivers who are also wanted drug runners and the bus serves up a lunch offering your choice of rotten shrimp that’s been festering for days in the sweltering luggage compartment or drunken chicken beak enchiladas rojas that are still squawking and bottled water filled straight from the tap but other than that I’m sure I’ll be just fine and besides Benicio de Toro is in the country to promote his new movie Che so maybe I’ll see him on the bus."

    "Oh, that sounds nice," she said. "You always liked Benicio del Toro. And who are you going with?" "Janice’s husband," I added. "Oh well then," she rallied, "Sounds like the perfect getaway." By now, my mother knew of my travel antics - travels which are often solo throughout Third World countries, my adventurous spirit, which still translates to her as major risk taker and target when in fact, I see them as nothing less than leaps of faith. When you’ve lost just about everything, the risk is no longer a risk when you have nothing left to lose. So my leaps of faith have become lighter, less angst-ridden. I look forward to the festering shrimp, but she worries, still. She is a mother after all.

    Life is a Bus Ham Sandwich

    Some people just go with the flow. When my friend, Janice, cyber arm-twisted her husband into taking me along on his unexpected bus adventure to the sea, I’m sure she heard a muffled head butt, or got an email chalk full of f-bombs. Back home in Oregon, Janice and their two little girls were experiencing one of the coldest, snowiest January’s on record. Greg was in San Miguel renewing his FM3 status, legal paperwork for gringos who own property and or reside in Mexico. Renters for their casa wanted to move in rápido but Greg still had a week long wait for his documents.

    He, Janice and the girls had previously crisscrossed Mexico via bus, and were quick to point out that while neither they nor the bus line could control wanton vomiting or any other human bodily projectile, the ETN luxury bus line rivaled First Class accommodations on any airliner. The promise was of spacious, clean buses, large reclining seats with padded leg rests, bathrooms for both men and women, decent ham sandwiches and a beverage of your choice.

    My last couple of weeks in town had not been bueno, in part thanks to hormones that were Cirque de Soleil-ing out of the big top. I needed a change of scenery, not to mention a bigger tent, and to get the hell out of Dodge before the authorities found me running naked in the bull ring just up the street on Recreo, clad only in red lipstick. You never want to be jailed in a foreign country, although it’s possible that a bare blond woman taunting bulls might actually be a crowd pleaser.

    I had never seen the Mexican coast and was ready for a little adventure, but Greg and I hardly knew each other. Traveling with a stranger, my best amigas esposo, on a bus, no reservations or destination? Surely she was jesting or getting paid big pesos for a new reality series, "Triple M - Menopausal Mexican Meltdown – Bus Travel with a Deranged Stranger - or Volaré This."

    But if I saw my travels as leaps of faith, then I had to see Greg’s willingness to take along his wife’s friend who was nothing short of a Woman on Fire, and not in a good way, as nothing short of delusional. Travel with someone who looked normal and impressively well coiffed, but was the she-devil version of Médico Jekyll y Senor Hyde, full days on a hot bus, humid weather that would make my feet swell and my hair limp and cause me to weep uncontrollably or gouge my wrists with tortilla chips if there was too much salt on the rim of my margarita glass? The guy's nuts, I thought, or an imbecile. I don’t want to travel with someone who is slow-witted, or nuts. Or I’m nuts. Well one of us is nuts. Maybe we’re both nuts. Okay, I was in. Rabid Zorro was off to pack her bags.

    Bright Lights, Big City, Dry Taps and Only a Hairdresser Knows for Sure

    First stop Guadalajara, a beautiful city with a bustling Centro Histórico with its impressive plazas, cathedrals, museums, and known for its murals by the renown Mexican muralist, José Clemente Orozco, a population of nearly four million, and Mexico’s second largest city.

    Undaunted, we stepped from the comforting confines of the bus following a pleasant six hour trip and into the heart of Nuevo Central Station - with no idea where the diablo we were going. Taxis were at our beck and call and I swear the loudspeaker was playing the jaunty tune - "see the gringos without a clue, backpacks, water bottles and Frommer’s, too!" We had a couple ideas of where we might go; one, a nice sounding place but next door to a tranny bar, which might be noisy on a Friday night, and in the heart of the seedy section of town; two, an old convent near town but not close enough to make hoofin’ it to the zocalo ideal, and chances were good that it was cold, dank and had unnaturally if not unholy extra firm mattresses. There’d be no pleasure possibilities or joy seeking in these rooms - especially for those sinners alone in their habitaciónes and quite possibly, talking naughty to half empty tequila bottles.

    We compromised, finding a good location, colonial atmosphere, and right price at approximately $30 per night. But instead of tranny’s we had a bout with dry faucets, showerheads and no flush toilets, and as a fair tradeoff for hard beds and evil nuns, I got a bed full of used sheets and a pillow case so covered with black curls from the last rooms’ resident, it appeared as though he had come in with a full, healthy head of hair, and checked out bald, sin plugs. Greg’s room faired a bit better, no hairpiece under the covers, but an area rug that mandated slipping into shoes when stepping out of bed. Other than that, the place was lovely and just down the street, a pastry shop with warm treats that filled our bag with a dozen delights for about one dollar. Sugar and butter and gracious Mexicans make up for many things, even sleeping on used sheets or deciding what body part gets washed with the last of your bottled water.

    Note: Guadalajara is known as the birthplace of mariachis, the sombrero, and tequila. There wasn’t a mariachi or sombrero to be found - at least we don’t remember them.

     


    Magnificent Frigatebird: Ocean Thief

       Frigatebird snatch.jpgTara Spears

                    Second in seabird series.

    magfrigatebird.jpgNext to the chunky pelican, the streamlined frigatebird looks aristocratic.  Thousands of these sleek seabirds live along the Riviera Nayrit coast.  When newly settled here I was walking the beach with my little dog and enjoying the flight of the seabirds until one of the large birds flying overhead lost its grip on dinner and it landed right in my path: a gigantic, live sea snake! I trotted home to identify this greedy bird that would grab a two meter long lunch.  Sure enough, the frigatebird is nicknamed pirate bird for its propensity to steal food from other birds by snatching food drofrigate female2.jpgpped by other birds before it hits the water.

      As the photos illustrate, the frigatebird has an incredible flying ability, owing to their wingspan of over 2 m/6.5 ft with less than 2 kg/4 lb of bodyweight to support.  The distinctive hooked grey beak and long split tail make them easy to recognize.

    To read the entire story click here

     

     

     

     

    lucy.JPGLucy Moreno:  Caring Fashion Designer

                                           By Tara Spears

          For those that enjoy casual beach wear, Riviera Nayarit designer, Lucy Moreno, is an excellent choice.  Senora Lucy is well known in the local community for her volunteering and her quality line of clothing for children, men and women.  All of her fashions are 100% prewashed cotton that are perfect for tropical, coastal living.  Even more exciting for the mature customer, Lucys boutique carries attractive and stylish plus sizes that are difficult to find in Mexico. I want all of my customers to feel comfortable and look good said Lucy. The fashions carrying Lucys Tayahu label are handmade in La Penita and are her original designs.

    To read the entire story click here 

     


     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     


    Classifieds

    For Sale

    1998 Volkswagon Pointer 2 door white sedan, Mexican plates.  Good
    upholostery, new exhaust and tires.  $2,000 USD.
    322-174-0734 or 274-1252.

    Se Vende

    Sedan Volkswagom Pointer 1998 color blanco, en bueno dondicion,
    llantas nuevas y escape nueva.  24,000 pesos.
    322-174-0734, 274-1252.

     

    Wanted:  Used Terracotta Pots in good condition
     
    X-large (2ft high), large and medium.
    Price negotiable.  Clean out your garden bodega!

    To views more classifieds click here


     

     

    An Exclusive Bed & Breakfast in a quaint, Mexican beach town.

    Tropical Manor House

    www.tropicalmanorhouse.com

    Opening Promotion
    Canadian dollars Accepted at Par with US dollars
    All Reservations for one week or more, will receive 2 complimentary Relaxation Massages (1 Hour each) to enjoy on our ocean view terrace.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Email: tropicalmanorhouse@gmail.com

    Tel: 327-274-3516

     

     

     

     


     

    The Spirit of Mexico: Metal Artisan Fernando Hernandez

    metalwork 015.JPG   By Tara Spears       

    Aficionados of Mexican craftwork have long admired and collected handmade metal objects. There are several metal artists that have studios in the Riviera Nayarit area, including the master craftsman, Fernando Hernandez. His family operated studio produces Indios Art that offers outstanding ironwork items for the home.  A third generation ironwork artisan, Fernando (38) works with his 67 year old father who learned the craft from his father. I started learning how to work with iron when I was eight years old, said Fernando in perfect English. I went to a bilingual school and since then I practice speaking English with the foreign customers.

     

    To read the entire story click here

     

     

     

     Learn Spanish Today Learn Spanish - Learn Spanish on-line for free, using interactive audio/visual lessons.

    Photography by Bill Bell  to view Mexico Photography click below

    Colonial Cities and Towns
     
    Archeological Sites
     
     

    Jaltemba Bay Animal Rescue

    Advocating humane and healthy practices for animals in the Jaltemba area by promoting health, education, sterilization, adoptions, foster care and positive relationships with animals and their owners.

    December 2006 to November 2008:  Two years, 6 clinics and more than 854 Animals Spayed or Neutered in the Jaltemba Bay Area!!!

     

    JBAR UPDATE:  THE NEXT SPAY AND NEUTER CLINIC

    Our next clinic will take place in March 18, 19, 20, 21, with a four day break and then again on the 25, 26, 27, 28. Eight days in total!!!

     

    We will hold the clinic again at Lacys house (#12 Los Flamingos in Zona Residencial, Rincon de Guayabitos) as she has the space for both the clinic and accommodation for the medical team.

     

    Help with food during the clinic will be needed:  lunches for all 8 days, water, snacks, and refreshments.  Hopefully, many of you will be able to volunteer as well!

     


     

    CLINIC NEEDS:

     

    *sterile surgical gloves size 7.5. 8, 8.5 and 9 

    *stethoscopes

    *digital thermometers

    *SUTURE, monocryl and vicryl 3-0 and 2-0

    *leashes

    *Frontline or Advantage (flea and tick medication)

     

     

    LACYS CORNER:  A Week in the Life of a JBAR Animal Rescuer!

     

    February 3rd

    A woman named Pat was vacationing in Los Ayala.  Someone left two four week old puppies in front of her gate.  I asked her to take these to Celia.  She made a donation to Celia of 200 pesos.  Celia called one of her church members and the two were adopted immediately and we will sterilize when they are old enough.  A man came and checked out Luigi and Celia believes that he will come back today to pick him up.  The other two puppies have since been adopted all to Mexican families.

     

    February 5th

    I took cat food donated by Bob and Mary Finzer to Celia today and picked a kitty for adoption from the Vivero (nursery). He had already adopted out two of the four kitties he had, is keeping one and we picked up one.  So for adoption at this time we have the dog still recovering from the burns, a small puppy and two small kitties.

     

    February 6th

      When the dog that was burnt was brought to us, it came with another puppy.  The man who owned with the burnt dog not only put the burnt dog on the street but another puppy he had.  Today a Mexican family came by adopted the puppy.  We will sterilize this puppy at our next clinic.  I will get with Celia tomorrow due to two reasons,    Celia has used some vaccinations slotted for other animals on the puppy that was adopted so we will replace these tomorrow and get some additional dog wormer.

     

     I spoke with Ana today.  She has two adult cats and the dog Oso at her house for adoption.  I believe the adult cats are sterilized but Oso is not. Oso was very matted but now is tick and flea free and has a proper hair cut.  Also two puppies were dropped off at Anas house today but have had no treatment yet. 

     

    February 7th

     

     I picked up the vaccinations for the burnt dog today and another vacination for a dog that needed one more of the mix. I also got a box of de-wormer pills and 20 syringes.  So total today is three mixes, one rabies, box of de-wormer and 20 syringes. 

     

    In addition to the 27 animals taken to other clinics, Lacy, Celia and Ana have taken another 7 animals to Porvenir clinic so a total of 34 animals have been sterilized in January.

     

    MANGE:

     

    Mange is a major problem in our area and street animals are being treated regularly with Ivermectina.  This is one example!  Some people thought this dog (Muneca) should be put down; however with care and treatment she will recover.  I thought it might be interesting to follow her progress!

    Muneca, found on the street in Los Ayala, January 19, 2009 with terrible mange.

     

    February 2, 2009, two weeks later with treatment.  Already the redness has left her skin, her eyes are bright and the terrible odor associated with mange has disappeared.  Muneca has now been spayed and vaccinated and is well on the road to recovery.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Once Munecas fur grows back in, she will be beautiful!  She is very playful and loving now that she is feeling better.


     

    MANY THANKS FOR THE FOLLOWING DONATIONS!

    PESOS

    Leanne Koval                                                          $500 pesos

    Birthday Gift Donations*                                         $2460 pesos

     

    USD

    Birthday Gift Donations*                                         $130.00 USD

     

    CDN

    Birthday Gift Donations*                                         $ 40.00 CDN

    Regine Zakaib                                                          $ 50.00 CDN 

     

    *What a wonderful idea~! In lieu of a gift for a friend, make a donation to JBAR!  At ONE recent birthday bash, an equivalent of $4,830 pesos was donated.  WOW!

     

    Dr. Wynlee Decker for bringing us medical supplies

    Bob and Mary Finzer for their donation of cat food

    Deb Wright for her donation of surgical gloves, leashes, suture and thermometers. 

     

     

    FOR ADOPTION

    Luigi a sterilized male

    who is quiet and playful!  ADOPTED

    Cilandrina, approximately 8 months


     

    She is sterilized, vaccinated and very  loving.  She needs a very special home!

    Three Chihuahuas, Snoopy, Mia and Pinkie for adoption.  ADOPTED

    Donations of bags of dog or cat food are always needed as we continue to feed street animals.

    In 2008, approximately 20% of our budget was spent on providing food for homeless animals.

     

    Volunteer Clinic:

    Ayuda a los Animales (PEACE) will be offering a volunteer  training clinic the week of Feb 18th to the 21st. If anyone from the Jaltemba Bay area wants to attend, let me know and maybe we can carpool down together.

    This is a great opportunity for all of you who help us and want to learn more!!!!

    Please confirm your assistance with Paulina at paulina@peacemexico.org

    Location: In Bucerias- exact location to be announced.

    Schedule (JALISCO TIME!)

    Day One (9:30 to 2:00)

    Intro-

    Reception

    Exam- how to do one and the importance of the exam

    Recovery-

    Why it is important

    What to look for

    When to be worried

    Dont freak out if

    How to get animals into the clinic-

    Animal behavior and psychology- why it is important in a clinic. -

    Basic animal handling dos and donts

    Day Two- repeat day one (9:30 to 2:00)

    Day Three (9:30 to 2:00)

    IV injections-

    Catheters-

    Intubation-

     

    Day Four (9:30 to 2:00)

    Euthanasia

    First aid

    Common diseases and what we can do (TVT, erlichia, parvo, etc )

    PEACE is a nonprofit organization located in the Punta de Mita region of Mexico.


     

    DONT FORGET TO CLICK ON THESE LINKS!  

    http://www.theanimalrescuesite.com

    http://hopeanimalnetwork.ning.com/

    TO MAKE A DONATION:

    Please contact linchimes@hotmail.com

    Donations may be made through mail, direct deposit, email money transfer or in person.

    Thanks to all of you for your wonderful support! 

     

     

     


     

    LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

    Hello and thank you Bill and Dot!

     

    We just got back from driving our RV to Puerto Vallarta from Colorado Springs. I really don't know how we could of done it without your detailed step by step map. The advise you had for getting us through the border crossing process was also very valuable.

    Anyway, I just wanted to tell you what a great guide the map was and how informative and helpful your website was as well.

     

    Tony & Sandy Wells
     

    Dear Bill and Dot, just wanted to express my deepest appreciation to all the people involved in this year's Cup. They did an outstanding job. Also for your information, our friend Wayne Crayton who was instrumental in the first Jaltemba Cup had major heart surgery last week and is now recuperating at home. Ironically Wayne had just retired and was in training for a trip to Europe to run in four marathons when he discovered the problem. The Drs found severe damage to some arteries on his heart and they had to be replaced, there were complications and he ended up in surgery for eleven hours total. The Dr said the damage was caused by radiation treatments he had received for cancer when he was 20 years old. He asks about us all down here and would love to receive any emails etc while undergoing this ordeal, wcrayton@gci.net. Thank you,Gary Stackhouse

    I'm hoping you can help me locate a waterfall which I found on your website.  I was looking at an old issue of the Jaltemba Express (Jan.13,2007) which pictured a beautiful waterfall.  I would love to know where it is....Can you help? 
    Thanks,

    J


     


    San Pancho AA

    Alanon Monday at 5:00pm, CoDA Wednesday at 5:00pm, and AA Friday at 6:30pm in San Pancho in the museum on main street, between Galeria Corazon and San Pancho Cafe. Info at devasaya@gmail.com email or 311-258-4243. 

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