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Learn Spanish Today  - Learn Spanish on-line for free, using interactive audio/visual lessons.     Jaltemba Sol...the heartbeat of the Riviera Nayarit September 9th 2009 Delores Hidalgo. The birthplace of Mexico's independence prepares to celebrate flag day...photograph by Bill Bell Become a Friend of Riviera Nayarit on Facebook click here Almost Free caravan to La Penita Rv Park still has some openings Anyone wanting to travel on the Caravan? There is room. We leave Tucson Oct 27 to arrive in La Penita November 1. Email me Carole@lapenitarvpark.com Headline News Mexico Werner Co. Announces Expansion Into Mexico Werner Co., the world's leading manufacturer and distributor of ladders, climbing equipment and ladder accessories, announced that it is entering the Mexican market by launching a full line of products designed specifically for Mexico. ….Click Here to Read More RIL to bid for pipeline project in eliance Industries (RIL), India’s largest private sector firm by market capitalisation, is planning a foray into the global pipeline construction business with a bid for building Rs 3,000 crore worth of oil and gas pipeline in Mexico. ….Click Here to Read More Rain floods Mexico City homes, subway Heavy rains have flooded hundreds of homes in the Mexico City metropolitan area and turned streets into rivers that dragged cars in their currents. ….Click Here to Read More Mexican Pres. Calderon Shakes Up Cabinet Mexican President Felipe Calderon announced Monday the resignation of Attorney General Eduardo Medina-Mora, his point-man in the offensive against drug cartels, ….Click Here to Read More Seeking the World’s Biggest Meatball? Try Mexico If Guinness World Records ever creates a category for the country most obsessed with being in the Guinness book of world records, Mexico will surely be in the running. ….Click Here to Read More Lightning injures four workers at Mexico City airport Four airport workers were injured Friday when lightning hit an Aeromexico jet at Mexico City International, the Latin American Herald Tribune reports. Lightning injures four workers at Mexico City airport.html….Click Here to Read More     Mexico City Moon walks for Michael  The first thing to note is that Michael Jackson's birthday comes in the middle of the rainy season in Mexico City. .…To Read More Click Here Pemex to launch tender for ethanol acquisition in September Mexico's state oil company Pemex will launch a tender in September for the annual supply of 176mn liters of ethanol to be mixed with gasoline and sold in the Guadalajara metropolitan area, according to a presidential statement. .…To Read More Click Here Mexican economy recovering, Calderon says  President Felipe Calderon says there are signs Mexico's economy is heading toward recovery following the worst quarterly contraction since comparable record-keeping began in 1981. .…To Read More Click Here Tourists fled resorts at the tip of the Baja California Peninsula as Hurricane Tourists fled resorts at the tip of the Baja California Peninsula as Hurricane Jimena roared their way Tuesday, but many slum dwellers concerned about looting refused to leave their imperiled shanties. .…To Read More Click Here Ay, ay, ay, ay! Guadalajara finally boasts the world's biggest mariachi band. Ay, ay, ay, ay! Guadalajara finally boasts the world's biggest mariachi band. A total of 549 musicians got together to win the record for the birthplace of mariachi Sunday, playing several songs in just over 10 minutes, closing with favorites "Cielito Lindo" and "Guadalajara." .…To Read More Click Here Mexico's health care lures Americans It sounds almost too good to be true: a health care plan with no limits, no deductibles, free medicines, tests, X-rays, eyeglasses, even dental work — all for a flat fee of $250 or less a year. .…To Read More Click Here Sony to sell Mexican TV plant to Taiwan firm Sony Corp. has agreed to sell its main television factory in North America to a Taiwanese company, the Japanese electronics maker said Tuesday, as it struggles to cut costs and stem massive losses. .…To Read More Click Here   Driving Safely in Mexico Driving safely in Mexico tips by Bill and Dot Bell Click here to read more   Fishin Mission How one man is trying to help Mexican orphans and catch bass click here to read more Who has the best hotel deals? AUSTRALIA SPAIN MALAYSIA GREECE BRAZIL GERMANY Compare 30 sites at ONCE! Mexico water shortage becomes crisis amid drought Crops are wilting in the countryside, and the capital's water shortage has turned dire as Mexico grapples with its worst drought in more than half a century. Reporting from Mexico City - In the parched Mexican countryside, the corn is wilting, the wheat stunted. And here in this vast and thirsty capital, officials are rationing water and threatening worse cuts as Mexico endures one of the driest spells in more than half a century. A months-long drought has affected broad swaths of the country, from the U.S. border to the Yucatan Peninsula, leaving crop fields parched and many reservoirs low. The need for rain is so dire that water officials have been rooting openly for a hurricane or two to provide a good drenching. "We really are in a difficult situation," said Felipe Arreguin Cortes, deputy technical director for Mexico's National Water Commission. This is supposed to be Mexico's wet season, when daily rains bathe farmland and top off rivers and reservoirs. But rainfall has been sporadic and unusually light -- the result, officials say, of an El Niño effect this summer that has warmed Pacific Ocean waters and influenced distant weather patterns. Mexico's hurricane season has been mild, with no major hits so far this summer, though a weak Hurricane Jimena dropped plenty of rain on parts of Baja California and the northwestern state of Sonora last week. The sparse rainfall nationwide has made 2009 the driest in 69 years of government record-keeping, Arreguin said. Though nearly two months remain before the rainy season ends in October, the drought is an unwelcome blow to an economy already laboring under a recession that has crimped exports and cost hundreds of thousands of jobs. Mexican growers report more than $1 billion in losses from crops planted during spring, in anticipation of seasonal rain. Hard hit have been corn, beans, barley and sorghum, plus livestock. Farmers and officials say the impact, including lost earnings, unpaid debts and shortages of staple foods, could be felt well into next year. "Although no one wants to recognize it, there is a food crisis," said Cruz Lopez Aguilar, president of a national federation representing rural dwellers. He and others say increasing imports to make up for lost crops could raise food costs. Mexican officials downplay the severity, saying lost production can be offset during the fall growing cycle, when crops are irrigated and rely less on direct rainfall. A federal government insurance program is meant to cover farmers affected by drought. The dry period has also lent new urgency to longtime water worries in metropolitan Mexico City, home to 20 million residents. Officials have for several months been rationing water from a network of outlying reservoirs, known as the Cutzamala system, which provides at least a fifth of Mexico City's water. Cutbacks have recently been doubled, to 30% of supplies. Rationing means lower flows in many neighborhoods for days at a time, but no citywide cutoffs. In the working-class Pedregal de San Nicolas section, where supplies were already spotty, residents swarm tanker trucks that deliver free water from the government. In recent months, drivers say, trucks have been commandeered by residents demanding that their cisterns be filled first. "Water is always a struggle in this neighborhood, but now it's worse," said Susana Bautista, a 50-year-old homemaker who says her house had been without water for six weeks. "My grandson tells me that his teacher says he has to wash every day. 'Well, tell her there's no water,' I say to him." To boost conservation, Mexico City authorities have announced fines of up to $1,200 for hosing down cars and sidewalks or watering lawns during daytime hours. Subway signs warn riders that the city could run out of water next spring unless residents switch to low-flow showers and toilets and plug leaks. Even before the drought, managing water was one of the most vexing issues for Mexico City, which 500 years ago was a big lake. Now paved in asphalt and concrete, the city pipes in much of its water (then, through separate plumbing, expels wastewater to prevent flooding during rainy times). Since most rainwater pours down storm drains into the sewer network, it is not absorbed into the underground aquifers that are the city's main source of water. Decades of over-pumping is emptying those deposits and causing Mexico City to sink, in some places by more than a foot a year. Officials have broached the possibility of raising water fees for the city's 2 million customers, many of whom pay a pittance thanks to heavy subsidies. But that idea will raise hackles at a moment of economic jitters. And Mayor Marcelo Ebrard, a leftist, has suggested that private companies take over distribution to improve water conservation and bill collecting, as some other Mexican municipalities have done. That proposal is also likely to stir controversy. No matter how long the current dry period lasts, many people say there is urgent need to change the city's approach to water. Jorge Legorreta, a professor at the Autonomous Metropolitan University in Mexico City who runs a small water museum, said the long-term problem is not scarcity, but managing abundance better. One answer, Legorreta said, is to capture and conserve more of the copious rains that fall during normal times in reservoirs and household tanks. He pointed to the inhabitants of pre-Columbian Mexico City, who thrived at the bottom of what was essentially a gigantic wash basin by living more in sync with nature. "We have to learn from our ancestors," he said. ken.ellingwood@latimes.com Left over hurricane wreaks havoc in San Carlos & Highway 15 Well, 36+ hours of continuous rain, and strong winds. We are not sure   how many of you are here in town, and if you are you might have seen   some of these images already. For those of you that aren't in town,   we just wanted to give you a glimpse of what Jimena did to our area.   We hear on the Mexican radio stations that Guaymas and the valley did   not do very well either, and we understand that help is slolwly   arriving.     Electricity is out, and so is water. Some houses that have a   generator can get internet through Telmex, as the land lines are   working OK. We understand that Highway 15 is broken both south of   Guaymas and North of Guaymas, and we read in the newspaper that a 5   km long line of cars going southbound in Hermosillo are stopped,   waiting for the road to be reopened.     As you can see in the pictures, the main boulevard is broken, so San   Carlos is split in two. Comisario says that they are working on   opening an alternate route so people can at least come and go to   Guaymas, but we have not tried it yet.     The road going up to the Caracol is mostly broken before the gates,   only high profile vehicles can pass through, though we have seen some   brave ones in smaller vehicle attempt to go up or come down.     We have heard of major damage in Guaymas and Enpalme and to the   east. We wish them well.     Regards,   Mark & Miguel     Fishing for Bass Helps Mexican Orphans September is the Month of Mexican Pride By Tara Spears A proliferation of local parades, Mexican flags, music festivals and two federal holidays celebrate the tenacious spirit the Mexican people. Septemb er is a weaving of the present with the past to create an intricate fabric that reflects the unique heart and soul of Mexico. The month begins with the President’s annual State of the Union address from Mexico City, followed by the commemoration of two significant 19th century political events:  September 13 honors Los Ninos Heroes, six teenage military cadets who died defending Mexico in the 1847 Mexican-American war; and September 16, Mexican Independence Day, celebrates the day in 1810 that Miguel Hidalgo delivered El Grito de Dolores, announcing the Mexican revolt against Spanish rule. Battle of Chapultepec:  This battle outside Mexico City contains all the dramatic elements that inspire: beleaguered and outnumbered common people, an exotic setting in an elegant castle, violence and bloodshed.  In 1847 the Mexican-American war had reached deep into the country, with North American Marines laying siege to the nation’s capital. Chapultepec Castle was a remnant from the hated Spanish rule and was used as a military academy.  Although the young soldiers-in-training had been ordered to retreat,   with the invincible conviction of youth they choose to stay in the castle and fight for their belief in Mexican independence.  Battling against professional soldiers, these six teens sacrificed their lives defending their country. The Chapultepec  castle is presently a national museum in a public park that also is the site of a memorial to the Los Ninos Heros.  The left picture (below) illustrates the castle in 1847, the present day memorial is pictured to the lower right.    In the Riviera Nayarit area, one of the youth, Juan Escutia, who was born in Tepic, Nayarit, is especially revered for his extraordinary bravery.  Although Juan had only been admitted to the Academy  days before the siege, he courageously  chose to protect and honor his country’s flag by wrapping himself in it and leaping from the roof to prevent the flag from falling into enemy hands.  The Chapultepec castle complex contains a large mural above the stairway that depicts Juan’s patriotic actions.   Miguel Hidalgo: Cleric Leader Promotes Independence from Spain Intellectual, charismatic, priest, and rebel leader describe the man who helped initiate the Mexican revolt from Spanish rule. Originally promoting the interests of the wealthy Creoles in Guanajunto, his native state, Hidalgo expanded his appeals to include the Indios and castes, thus garnering a large militant fighting army.  In his impassioned speech, Grito de Dolores, on September 16, 1810, Hidalgo invoked the Virgin of Guadalupe as patroness which inspired all classes to revolt against the Spanish overseers.  Hidalgo’s platform of social change (he advocated the end of slavery, social classes, and to return the land to the Indians- issues that are still being fought in southern Mexican states today,) angered his original Creole supporters. In early 1811, Hidalgo and other rebel leaders were captured north of Saltillo. He was executed and decapitated on July 30, 1811.  It wasn’t until years later that Hidalgo’s efforts were recognized and he was lauded as a patriotic hero. Modern Mexico celebrates the date of his revolutionary speech as Mexican independence day, a national holiday. Fusion of Song and Dance: Mariachi Festivals In addition to the serious reasons to celebrate this month, September is also the commemoration of the birth of mariachi music. This truly Mexican style of music, performed by strolling musicians in traditional charro garb (silver studded sombreros, jackets and pants,) is accompanied by horns, guitars, bass and violins.  The passionate songs tell of politics, love, betrayal, animals, and death.  Even without knowing the words, the haunting rthymn pulls the listener to their feet.  Folk dances have evolved that accompany various types of mariachi songs- truly a fantastic entertainment to experience.       Every small town, pueblo, and city will have parades, food, music and celebrating throughout the month, so join the lively activities to experience the joy of Mexico. Bravery, passion and independence: lots to celebrate in September, making it a great time to visit!   Email:   tara.sprs@hotmail.com  Click the ad to go to our site La Penita de Jaltemba Beach Medicare In Mexico for U.S. Citizens? Richard C. Morais - Forbes go to original September 06, 2009   Vallarta businessman Paul Crist founded the non-profit Americans For Medicare In Mexico, and has since lobbied 85 members in the U.S. Congress to get Medicare accepted south of the border. Contact him at paulcrist(at)hotel-mercurio.com Washington - The U.S. government should pick up the cost of health care for the elderly Americans living in Mexico. That's the gist of a new lobbying effort aimed at pushing Washington into covering foreign medical expenses for the first time via its sprawling Medicare programs. There are over 1 million U.S. citizens living south of the border, many of them retirees. The government's current position is that retired citizens cannot claim benefits for medical treatments received overseas, even if they paid into the Medicare system during their working lives. The U.S. government is worried that creating a Mexican Medicare exemption might be too complicated and costly to implement and would open the door for Americans in countries as far afield as Poland and Thailand to press for similar benefits, according to David Warner, a professor of health care policy at the University of Texas at Austin and a specialist on Medicare in Mexico. Paul Crist, a former aid to Sen. Paul Sarbanes, D-Md., now running a hotel in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, isn't buying it. Last March, Crist founded the non-profit Americans For Medicare In Mexico. The American businessman has since lobbied 85 members in the U.S. Congress to get Medicare accepted south of the border. It is Mexico's unique proximity to America that makes the whole process economically viable, he says. The current inflexible Medicare benefits system is the reason why 64% of retired Americans in Mexico currently return to the U.S. for medical treatment; the remaining U.S. retirees are getting treated in Mexico but picking up the costs themselves. They can pay out-of-pocket because "health care is extremely affordable in Mexico with or without health insurance," as are "comprehensive private insurance policies," according to MedToGo.com, a Web site owned and operated by U.S. physicians. An office visit to a doctor in a Mexican city typically runs between $30 and $40, according to MedToGo, while a hospital room costs $90 to $100 a night. Besides private health care insurance, the Mexican Institute of Social Security (which goes by the Spanish initials IMSS) provides affordable, if basic, health insurance for all Mexican residents, regardless of nationality. Studies suggest that health care services are 70% less expensive in Mexico than in the U.S. If Medicare were accepted in Mexico, the 64% of American retirees currently flying back to the U.S. for expensive care would instead opt for treatment nearer their homes, cutting Medicare's overall costs by a minimum of 22% net, Crist figures. The Mexican government, hoping to lure more retirees from the U.S., including those born in Mexico, is largely open to accepting Medicare, says Professor Warner. So is the U.S. Congress, claims Crist. "Response has been quite positive, especially on the House side," he says. But the offices of Reps. Jim McDermott, D-Wash., Carolyn Maloney, D-N.Y., and other sympathetic legislators have also told Crist that this year they have too much on their plate, and that it would be politically wiser to introduce a stand-alone Mexico-Medicare bill next year, separate from the complex health care reform package currently working its way through Capitol Hill. Professor Warner, who also supports the granting of Medicare coverage in Mexico, says an in-depth three-year Mexico-Medicare pilot project is needed to better understand the economics, determine whether Mexican health care meets Medicare's quality standards and determine if the payment system is sufficiently free of fraud. "I don't think it need be a big deal," he adds. "The Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services ... is taking the position that Congress has to give it [a special] waiver to pay overseas. But this does not require a large appropriation of money. If any." While AARP, the retiree interest group, has yet to take a position and did not respond to Forbes' request for comment, Crist's lobbying efforts appear to be picking up support, including from real estate developers hoping to build assisted-living villages for American retirees in Mexico and influential lobbying groups, including the Association of Americans Resident Overseas. The association and others are instructing members to send letters to their congressional representatives, urging that at minimum a demonstration project be undertaken to study the consequences of accepting Medicare benefits in Mexico. "As an American who has worked outside the USA, I will be eligible for Medicare benefits, having paid for them during my working life. Because I live outside the USA, however, I will not be able to receive these benefits in the country where I live," one letter from the AARO states. In a year when U.S. politicians have been battered by constituents' claims that the U.S. government is trying to take away their medical choices, a potentially cost-saving pilot allowing for more choice in Medicare seems, on the surface, a political slam-dunk. It would also help ease immigration pressure: Long-term U.S. residents who were born in Mexico, and are interested in returning when they retire, would no longer be reluctant to do so for fear of losing their Medicare benefits.   Varillas Style: Produce and More                   By Tara Spears La Penita welcomes a new produce market on the busy avenida, right next door to the Don Pedro market.  What sets Fruteria y Cremeria Varillas above the other existing vendors is the variety, quality, and freshness of their fruits and vegetables.  The local residents and restaurants immediately became customers and it is always busy. Amazing for low season, Varilas’ is open seven days a week from 6:30 am to 9 pm, with plans to stay open later in high season. Anayanci (27) and her husband, Francisco (31) are pictured above. Although no English is spoken, both owners understand some English so they are able to assist international customers. Don’t let the compact space fool you: the talented and energetic Anayanci has organized the wares for easy selection and maximum variety.  “If we don’t have what you need, we will have it for you tomorrow” explained Anayanci through an interpreter.                       Although the Varillas are young, they have a combined 18 years in the produce business before opening their own La Penita market.  “My husband and I worked at his brother’s fruiteria to learn,” said Anayanci. “It is our dream to have our own business. We hope that our children will join us as they get older.” The Varillas have three children: Alejanda, 8; Francisco, 7; and toddler Diego, 2 years old. Anayanci beams when she talks about her children but admits that the most difficult thing about operating the business is jugging family responsibilities with managing the market.  Francisco’s mother babysits the kids when they aren’t in school, and they usually are at the store with their parents in the evening.   Fruteria y Cremeria Varillas  employs five but Anayanci and Francisco are involved with all phases of the operation.  It is Francisco who drives every day to Tepic or Guadalajara to personally select the quality produce and brings it to their store by early morning. The staff continually culls the overripe fruit and vegetables from the display bins.  Some of the more delicate items, such as Romaine lettuce, are kept chilled and you have to ask for it. (“Lechuga de romaine”)                      Owner  Anayanci                                                            delectable fruit The couple grew up and went to school in Tepic, Nayarit but thought the growth and amenities of a beach town offered a better business opportunity. “After living here for four years, we love the area,” said Francisco.  “The people are wonderful and it is good for raising children.”  Anayanci and Francisco want the public to know that their goal is to provide good service besides quality produce.  Anayanci says, “We want to please our customers by being honest and fair; we plan on always giving good service besides excellent fruit and vegetables.”  As a convenience for customers, the market also offers a good selection of dairy products and frozen items in addition to canned staples including spices, breads, and paper products. Even better, they offer weekly specials on select items just as the large chains do!                           Featured specials (oferta) of the week shown below: Shopping at Varillas’ Fruteria y Cremeria for beautiful fresh fruits and vegetables is guaranteed, but it is the personal service and Anayanci’s smile that makes it a memorable experience. Store phone: 327-274-3626         or email:  anayanci.gonher@hotmail.com     To contact Tara:  tara.sprs@hotmail.com                                               Invasion of the Caterpillars-Don’t  Spray!                                                                         Tara Spears   Besides the heavy seasonal rains last week, lots of spiny caterpillars have appeared in Riviera Nayarit yards and on sidewalks. For many people, the first response is to stomp them or spray these creepy crawlies with insecticide. But there is another, easier way to deal with these invaders-peaceful coexistence.  Yep, just ignore them!  Yes, they do eat a lot- I have several plants that are stripped to the bare stem whereas a week ago they were lush flowering plants.  The leaves will grow back and the flowers will rebloom in time for the adult butterfly or moth to sip the nectar.  By remembering that caterpillars are the larval growth stage of butterflies and only temporary should help one ignore their scary presence. Click to read the entire story

 

Reproduction:                 Mexico Lacks a Plan to Correct Negative Media Perceptions Gregory Payne - MexiData.info go to original September 07, 2009   With the American media often opting for ratings rather than facts, the 'mediated reality' presented to Americans is that all of Mexico is ridden with violence and unsafe to visit. A fundamental mistake in the response to the violence associated with the war on drugs and the too often sensational approach of the American media in reporting such events is Mexico’s lack of a carefully crafted crisis communication plan. Succinctly stated, generally speaking, there has been no official response. In reality, instead of defining the problem and its causes, focusing on the publics impacted and outlining possible solutions to remedy the situation – fundamental requirements of any crisis communication strategy – the Mexican approach too often has been like that of the ostrich. That is, stick your sombrero in the Baja California sand and pretend there is nothing wrong. For example, Californians hear radio ads telling them that "the lobster tastes good," and "to come to the Baja and "stroll down the streets of Avenida Revolucion in Tijuana." Hola? Qué tal? Who is in charge of such ads and who do they think they are fooling? With the American media often opting for ratings rather than facts, the "mediated reality" presented to Americans is that all of Mexico is ridden with violence and unsafe to visit. Rosarito Beach, Tijuana, Nuevo Laredo, all get morphed into one sad and crime invested barrio. With this concocted context, what American in their right mind would come to "stroll down Avenida Revolucion" in Tijuana, where ABC, AP and CNN say they would be dodging bullets left and right? Who cares if the "lobster tastes good" if the media have you convinced it could be your last supper? The lack of a response to such inaccuracies is not only disappointing; it has dire economic, cultural and social costs that will impact the country for years. Although weekends have seen more visitors, most are from Mexicali and other parts of Mexico. The gringos still seem scared by the recycled and often times inaccurate accounts that only present part of the story. As a professor who teaches crisis communication at Emerson College in Boston, and a regular visitor to Baja California, I have been involved in a two year ongoing student grass roots public affairs project, www.rediscoverosarito.org, dedicated to presenting the facts about the safety and security of Rosarito Beach. This campaign is not a propaganda effort, but one dedicated to presenting the facts, both good and bad, about how this community is impacted and addressing the crisis. What has been most impressive to me, as a professor, is that Rosarito is the one city with a proactive effort and crisis communication plan to address the problem, to communicate with the media about issues in questionable reporting, and an ongoing grass roots effort to involve citizens in addressing the problem. Rather than sit back and passively accept inaccurate accounts of events being reported in U.S. media, Mayor Hugo Torres has gone to San Diego and cities in Southern California to talk with media and local leaders about the problems and to set the facts straight. He has gathered testimonials from many of the estimated 14,000 U.S. residents who live in Rosarito as well as tourists. He has separated fact from fiction: tourists have not been the focus of violence in Rosarito. Violence has involved only those with drug ties. The crime rate in Rosarito is lower than many of the neighborhoods in San Diego and Los Angeles, where many of its tourists reside. Visitors are safer in Rosarito than their counterparts in New Orleans, St. Louis and Miami. As part of the proactive stance, Rosarito has special tourist police especially dedicated to visitors, and any tickets or violations, if they might occur, are now handled in a fast track process to ensure a speedy resolution. Mayor Torres has endorsed and sponsored programs, such as the Rosarito Student Film Festival, a joint effort with students and alums from Emerson College, which teaches young citizens of this beachside community to document their own narratives and stories as they prepare for potential careers in journalism or public service. Such collaborative efforts help convey the sense of "normalcy" that is important in the recovery phase of a crisis. It is clear from this crisis that there is little history or appreciation of crisis communication in Mexico. Rosarito has been the exception. Hugo Torres and his staff have viewed the crisis as an opportunity to move forward, working together with the media as well as various public entities and organizations to convey the message, backed with facts, that this seaside community is not only safe but a great economic bargain for its American neighbors to visit, vacation, and retire. And, yes, within this proactive context of safety and security, the ad running on the American radio stations does make sense. Take the sombrero out of the sand and visit Rosarito, because it is safe and "the lobster tastes good." Gregory Payne is a Professor of Public Affairs at Emerson College, Boston, MA                             Hummingbirds of the Riviera Nayarit                          By Tara Spears  When I lived in the northern US, the window of time for sharing the garden with these gorgeous, diminutive birds was very short. And like most career people with a family and a packed schedule, I’d have to plan time to sit and watch the hummingbirds… I could “smell the roses” on the run but without putting ‘sit in garden/ 30 minutes’ on my ‘to do’ list, I’d often miss these transient birds’ visit. But since living in tropical western Mexico, which is the natural habitat for hundreds of hummingbird species, seeing them year round is a daily joy if you have the right flowers in your yard.  To read more of Hummingbirds click here     Letters       Becas Ball Prize — An Incomparable and Safe Trip to Michoacán Polly G. Vicars - PVNN Photos by Polly Vicars and Irene Johnson September 01, 2009     Some of the "dangerous" folk art collected by Las Casa de las Flores   La Casa Encantada's genial Luis, the manager, greeter and all around fine young man   Husband, Irene and Carl in the flower filled patio of La Casa Encantada   Our beautiful suite with the champagne cooling and the fireplace ready   The charming and gracious Chef Josefina Ponce Ramirez, Jose to her friends   Our hosts, Victoria and Cynthia Ryan in the heart of their unusual home   Miguel Nuñez telling Irene about the grand pyramids that had stood here almost 1000 years ago   The "dangerous" display of crafts in the square of Tzintzuntzan just waiting to separate us from our money   Husband resting among the centuries old olive trees in Tzintzuntzan   Despite the unwarranted warnings by the U.S. State Department, CNN and U.S. television channels of dangers when traveling to the Mexican state of Michoacan, Husband and I, along with Carl and Irene Johnson, put final touches on our long planned trip to Patzcuaro in Michoacán. At the 2009 Becas Crystal Ball, Irene and Carl had been the high bidders for a three night stay for four persons at La Casa Encantada, generously donated by its proprietors, Cynthia and Victoria Ryan. Through the years, Husband and I have traveled the length and breath of this country with only the most wonderful experiences with the Mexican people. We have been rescued when our old VW van broke down, shown the way when we were lost, invited into strangers home for a cool drink and made to feel like old friends after only a moment’s relationship. We have read of violence in specific places in Mexico, but we also have read of school shootings, jail riots, rapes, murders in our former state of Kentucky and all over the U.S. There have been no warnings against travel to Kentucky or the U.S. because of those incidents, nor should there be. Mexico, like the U.S., is a huge, diverse country peopled with mostly hard working, law abiding citizens who live happy, productive lives with the same goals as people all over the world; a healthy, prosperous and happy lives for themselves and their children and their grandchildren. Of course there are also “bad people,” but they are such a small minority that it makes my heart sick to see my adopted country branded as a lawless land when quite the opposite is true. We began our trip beautifully with an overnight in the unique suburb of Guadalajara, Tlaquepaque, at La Casa de las Flores with genial hosts Jose, Stan and Carlos. This B & B, living up to its name of The House of Flowers, is located in the heart of the village surrounded by streets filled with galleries and stores displaying unusual and beautiful arts and crafts. The B & B itself is a museum of Mexican crafts, lovingly collected by Stan and his partners. We were treated to a fascinating history of the collection by Stan. There Irene found a large painted pot with a reasonable price that she just had to have. Soon Stan was preparing this treasure for travel by filling it with the dishes I had just bought at the El Palomar, a factory we had first visited 20 years ago when we selected dishes for our new home. The dangerous urge to shop for beautiful and reasonably priced objects de arte and crafts should have been the warning issued - not the possible criminal dangers. In Michoacan, Patzcuaro and the surrounding villages of Tzintzuntzan, Erongarícuaro, the Lake Patzcuaro Isla Janitzio, as well as the capital city Morelia are shoppers paradises! Artists and artisans abound with incredible goods at prices that I just couldn’t pass up. Irene and I bought tablecloths and bedspreads made from locally crafted colorful cotton, hand painted trays, exquisite hand made and hand painted pottery. We learned of the area we were visiting from a fantastic guide, historian and anthropologist Miguel Nuñez. I’ll share some of the history of this area in hopes of enticing you to make this trip yourself. On our walking tour Miguel told us that Patzcuaro was first settled in about 1324 and is one of the oldest cities in Mexico. We marveled at the 300 year old one and two story adobe buildings that are still standing sturdily and in use after all those years and an untold number of earthquakes in the area. Before the Spanish conquest, Pátzcuaro was one of three principal centers of the local Purepecha Indians (more popularly known as the Tarascans). It is said that its early inhabitants believed Pátzcuaro to be the doorway to heaven where the gods ascended and descended and it is easy to see why and to think that could still be true today as the land is fertile, the climate is temperate, the air is clear and the people are exceptional. Miguel told us that the Spanish first came to Michoacán in 1521 and a violent decade of destruction followed. The Conquistadores tore down the magnificent pyramids, enslaved many of the people, brought small pox to the area and effectively ended this 300 year old culture that many say exceeded the heralded cultures of Europe. The conquerors along with the priests who came from Europe set building their own churches as a priority. They used the stones from the destroyed pyramids to build them and put them right on the sites of the old pyramids. Those ornate churches stand today, purportedly Catholic, but strangely mixed with many of the old ways of the Tarascans. When Cristobal de Olíd and his regiment of Spanish conquistadors first arrived in Tzintzuntzan, they found a city of 40,000 and the capital of the Purépecha Indian Empire. Today parts of this ancient city still stand guarded by gnarled olive trees surrounded by stone circles and one hears the purépecha language spoken by most of the artisans of the area. We visited this sacred place overlooking Lake Patzcuaro and found it to be almost magical. You felt the beat of a thriving city of cultured and educated people and your heart hurt that man’s inhumanity to man that destroyed this culture is alive and well in many parts of the world in the 21st Century. How can that be? On our short drive back to Patzcuaro from visiting Tzintzuntzan, whose name means home of the hummingbirds, we encountered the real danger of driving in Michoacán (and Mexico in general.) Our driver braked as we all exclaimed, “Bull fight!” There was no matador, no pomp, no red cape, but there were several large bulls coming onto the road fighting each other ferociously! We stopped for the fight, snapping pictures of the brawling bulls. Perhaps the danger everyone is writing about when visiting Mexico should be the fact that there are no fence laws here so that cattle, sheep, and other four-legged animals use the highways along with the cars and trucks! We continued to Patzcuaro and Miguel continued our education on the area. He told us that in 1540 the Spanish moved their local government to Pátzcuaro from Tzintzuntzan. The Spaniards developed Patzcuaro as a government and religious center until they moved it to Valladolid (now named Morelia) in 1580. It was central to the careers of two diametrically opposed characters in Mexico's colonial past: Nuño Guzmán de Beltrán, the vicious conquistador who plundered the area for gold ... and his eventual replacement ... Vasco de Quiroga, a former judge from Mexico City who had become a priest. I learned more by reading on the Internet and found that “Vasco de Quiroga helped the Purepecha Indians in the Pátzcuaro area by introducing new crops, establishing schools and hospitals, and introducing craft cooperatives in various nearby villages. While the cooperatives (an idea Quiroga adopted from Sir Thomas More's Utopia) have not survived, village specialization in crafts still marks the region as one of the most culturally rich in Mexico.” Having survived two dangers, spending most of our money and dodging fighting bulls on the highway, we returned to our beautiful abode, La Casa Encantada. Enchanted indeed! When we arrived the day before we stepped into a courtyard surrounded by colorful flowers, fountains and folk art. We were welcomed and shown to our rooms by the genial Luis, the manager, greeter and all around fine young man whose command of the English language was exceptional. Our spacious room had fresh flowers, a bottle of champagne chilling and a fireplace! A fireplace when in Vallarta all anyone wants is a well functioning air conditioner! Patzcuaro’s altitude is 7,130 feet (a far cry from Vallarta’s 1 to 20 feet) and has a temperate climate with sunny days and cool (for us cold) evenings year round. The stay included breakfasts lovingly prepared by the charming and gracious Chef Josefina Ponce Ramirez, Jose to her friends. These breakfasts included fresh squeezed fruit juice using local fruits, home made yogurt, cereal, eggs cooked in imaginative ways with delicious breads and coffee. One morning Josefina’s Fritatta was so delicious that I pressed her for the recipe, which I will happily share with you if you like. The dining area was the meeting place for the guests and we were happy to meet a great group from Puebla with whom I am now corresponding. Our hosts, Cynthia and Victoria invited us to cocktails in their unusual home overlooking all of Patzcuaro. They built it from their own design to accommodate the spaciousness they wanted on an extremely narrow lot. The house was filled with art, some by Victoria herself, and others by locals and well know artists. We sipped our cocktails on the balcony with a full view of the rooftops of the ancient city and the beautiful Lake Patzcuaro. We were joined by 3 dogs and several cats who exhibited friendly, but proprietorial attitudes. Victoria and Cynthia had found the secret, seemingly innate in most Mexicans, that brings strangers into the heart and makes them family. We were so at home and at ease with Cynthia and Victoria that in a matter of minutes we were firm friends. We dined together that night at their (and our) favorite restaurant, Mistongo's, an Argentine restaurant owned and run by vivacious Susie Santiago. We ate the local trout cooked to perfection and, of course, made a new friend in the lovely Susie. We left La Casa Encantada, its owners, its staff and the beautiful surroundings with feelings that we would return soon and often. I had brought newsletters, copies of my book and my enthusiasm for Becas Vallarta with me. Obviously all of this was convincing as we had the promise of another donation of the three nights for four people for the 2010 Becas Ball. Victoria, quite a gifted artist, offered to donate one of her lovely paintings as well. Miguel, our wonderful guide who would later meet us in Morelia to bring that city to life for us, offered his services as a guide to go along with the stay next year. We went on to the capital city of Michoacán, Morelia. It is a beautiful city of no more than three story buildings, all maintaining the facades appropriate to the area. We toured with Miguel, ate in some great restaurants and looked forward to a longer visit in this city on a future trip. We arrived home in Puerto Vallarta, safe and sound with the Johnson's SUV filled with our treasures and our hearts filled with memories of the people we had met and the places we had seen. So Becas Ball goers, be prepared to outbid all the others if you want to have this fascinating experience for yourself - or better yet, give the gals and Stan a call and schedule your trip right away. Travel to Michoacán. You will love it! WHERE TO STAY: La Casa Encantada Dr.Coss No. 15 Patzcuaro, Michoacán Mexico Tel: 01-434-342-3492 within Mexico Tel: 1-619-819-8398 outside Mexico Email: cynthia(at)lacasaencantada.com Casa de las Flores Santos Degollado #175 Tlaquepaque, Jalisco Within Mexico but outside Guadalajara: 01-333-659-3186 Email: info(at)casadelasflores.com   Polly G. Vicars and her husband of almost 60 years, Hubert (a.k.a. "Husband") retired to Puerto Vallarta in 1988 and soon became active members of several charitable organizations. Polly is the author of "Tales of Retirement in Paradise: Life in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico" [a sell-out!] and "More Tales of Retirement in Puerto Vallarta and Around the World." Proceeds from the sale of her books go to the America-Mexico Foundation, a scholarship foundation that is their passion. Click HERE for more articles by Polly Vicars, or click HERE to learn more about Becas Vallarta and the America-Mexico Foundation.    Become a Friend of Nayarit on Face book click here Mexico and Argentina Move Towards Decriminalising Drugs Rory Carroll, Jo Tuckman, & Tom Phillips - Guardian UK go to original September 01, 2009 In a backlash against the US "war on drugs", Latin America turns to a more liberal policy. Argentina and Mexico have taken significant steps towards decriminalising drugs amid a growing Latin American backlash against the US-sponsored "war on drugs". Argentina's supreme court has ruled it unconstitutional to punish people for using marijuana for personal consumption, an eagerly awaited judgment that gave the government the green light to push for further liberalisation. It followed Mexico's decision to stop prosecuting people for possession of relatively small quantities of marijuana, cocaine, heroin and other drugs. Instead, they will be referred to clinics and treated as patients, not criminals. Brazil and Ecuador are also considering partial decriminalisation as part of a regional swing away from a decades-old policy of crackdowns still favoured by Washington. "The tide is clearly turning. The 'war on drugs' strategy has failed," Fernando Henrique Cardoso, a former Brazilian president, told the Guardian. Earlier this year, he and two former presidents of Colombia and Mexico published a landmark report calling for a new departure. "The report of the Latin American Commission on Drugs and Democracy has certainly helped to open up the debate about more humane and efficient policies. But, most of all, the facts are speaking by themselves," said Cardoso. Reform campaigners have long argued that criminalisation enriched drug cartels, fuelled savage turf wars, corrupted state institutions and filled prisons with addicts who presented no real threat to society. The US used its considerable influence to keep Latin America and the UN wedded to hardline policies which kept the focus on interdictions and jail sentences for consumers as well as dealers. The "war" was first declared by the Nixon administration. The economic and social cost, plus European moves towards liberalisation, have emboldened some Latin American states to try new approaches. Argentina's supreme court, presented with a case about youths arrested with a few joints, ruled last week that such behaviour did not violate the constitution. "Each adult is free to make lifestyle decisions without the intervention of the state," it said. The government, which favours decriminalisation, is expected to amend laws in light of the ruling. The court stressed, however, that it was not approving complete decriminalisation, a move that would be fiercely resisted by the Catholic church and other groups. The previous week the government of Mexico, which has endured horrific drug-related violence, made it no longer an offence to possess 0.5g of cocaine (the equivalent of about four lines), 5g of marijuana (about four joints), 50mg of heroin and 40mg of methamphetamine. Three years ago, Mexico backtracked on similar legislation after the initiative triggered howls of outrage in the US and predictions that Canc?n and other resorts would become world centres of narcotics tourism. Now, however, the authorities quietly say they need to free up resources and jail space for a military-led war on the drug cartels, even while publicly justifying that offensive to the Mexican public with the slogan "to stop the drugs reaching your children". They also argue corrupt police officers will be deterred from extorting money from drug users. Washington did not protest against the announcement, which was kept deliberately low key. "They made no fanfare so as not to arouse the ire of the US," said Walter McKay, of the Mexico City-based Institute for Security and Democracy. "I predict that when the US sees its nightmare has not come true and that there is no narco-tourist boom it will come under more pressure to legalise or decriminalise." Some US states have decriminalised the possession of small amounts of marijuana and the Obama administration has emphasised public health solutions to drug abuse, giving Latin America more breathing room, said Kasia Malinowska-Sempruch, director of the Global Drug Policy Programme. "My hope is that Latin America will be the next region, after most of Europe, where evidence and science will be the basis for policy-making." Argentina and Mexico's moves may encourage other governments to follow suit. A new law has been mooted in Ecuador, where President Rafael Correa last year pardoned 1,500 "mules" who had been sentenced to jail. His late father was a convicted mule. Brazil's supreme court, as well as elements in Congress and the justice ministry, favour decriminalising possession of small quantities of drugs, said Maria Lacia Karam, a former judge who has joined the advocacy group Law Enforcement Against Prohibition. She welcomed the moves towards decriminalisation but said repression remained a cornerstone of drug policy. "Unfortunately the 'war on drugs' mentality is still the dominant policy approach in Latin America. The only way to reduce violence in Mexico, Brazil or anywhere else is to legalise the production, supply and consumption of all drugs."        Learn Spanish Today  - 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   August 20, 2009 The Department of State has issued this Travel Alert to update security information for U.S. citizens traveling to and living in Mexico.   It supersedes the Travel Alert for Mexico dated February 20, 2009, and expires on February 20, 2010. While millions of U.S. citizens safely visit Mexico each year (including tens of thousands who cross the land border every day for study, tourism or business), violence in the country has increased.  It is imperative that travelers understand the risks of travel to Mexico, how best to avoid dangerous situations, and who to contact if one becomes a crime victim.  Common-sense precautions such as visiting only legitimate business and tourist areas during daylight hours, and avoiding areas where prostitution and drug dealing might occur, can help ensure that travel to Mexico is safe and enjoyable. Recent violent attacks have caused the U.S. Embassy to urge U.S. citizens to delay unnecessary travel to Michoacán and Chihuahua and advise U.S. citizens residing or traveling in those areas to exercise extreme caution.   Drug cartels and associated criminal elements have retaliated violently against individuals who speak out against them or whom they otherwise view to be a threat to their organization, regardless of the individuals’ citizenship.  These attacks include the abduction and murder of two resident U.S. citizens in Chihuahua in July, 2009. Violence Along the U.S. - Mexico Border Mexican drug cartels are engaged in violent conflict - both among themselves and with Mexican security services - for control of narcotics trafficking routes along the U.S.-Mexico border.  In order to combat violence, the government of Mexico has deployed military troops in various parts of the country.  U.S. citizens should cooperate fully with official checkpoints when traveling on Mexican highways. Some recent Mexican army and police confrontations with drug cartels have resembled small-unit combat, with cartels employing automatic weapons and grenades.  Large firefights have taken place in towns and cities across Mexico, but occur mostly in northern Mexico, including Tijuana, Chihuahua City, Monterrey and Ciudad Juarez.  During some of these incidents, U.S. citizens have been trapped and temporarily prevented from leaving the area.  The U.S. Mission in Mexico currently restricts non-essential travel within the state of Durango, the northwest quadrant of Chihuahua and an area southeast of Ciudad Juarez, and all parts of the state of Coahuila south of Mexican Highways 25 and 22 and the Alamos River for US Government employees assigned to Mexico.  This restriction was implemented in light of the recent increase in assaults, murders, and kidnappings in those three states.  The situation in northern Mexico remains fluid; the location and timing of future armed engagements cannot be predicted. A number of areas along the border are experiencing rapid growth in the rates of many types of crime.  Robberies, homicides, petty thefts, and carjackings have all increased over the last year across Mexico generally, with notable spikes in Tijuana and northern Baja California.  Ciudad Juarez, Tijuana and Nogales are among the cities which have experienced public shootouts during daylight hours in shopping centers and other public venues.  Criminals have followed and harassed U.S. citizens traveling in their vehicles in border areas including Nuevo Laredo, Matamoros, and Tijuana. The situation in the state of Chihuahua including Ciudad Juarez is of special concern.   The U.S. Consulate General recommends that American citizens defer non-essential travel to the Guadalupe Bravo area southeast of Ciudad Juarez and to the northwest quarter of the state of  Chihuahua including the city of Nuevo Casas Grandes and surrounding communities.  From the United States, these areas are often reached through the Columbus, NM and Fabens and Fort Hancock, TX ports-of-entry.  In both areas, American citizens have been victims of drug related violence. Mexican authorities report that more than 1,000 people have been killed in Ciudad Juarez in the first six-months of 2009.  Additionally, this city of 1.6 million people experienced more than 17,000 car thefts and 1,650 carjackings in 2008.  U.S. citizens should pay close attention to their surroundings while traveling in Ciudad Juarez, avoid isolated locations during late night and early morning hours, and remain alert to news reports.  Visa and other service seekers visiting the Consulate are encouraged to make arrangements to pay for those services using a non-cash method. U.S. citizens are urged to be alert to safety and security concerns when visiting the border region.  Criminals are armed with a wide array of sophisticated weapons.  In some cases, assailants have worn full or partial police or military uniforms and have used vehicles that resemble police vehicles.  While most crime victims are Mexican citizens, the uncertain security situation poses serious risks for U.S. citizens as well.  U.S. citizen victims of crime in Mexico are urged to contact the consular section of the nearest U.S. consulate or Embassy for advice and assistance. Contact information is provided at the end of this message. Crime and Violence Throughout Mexico Although the greatest increase in violence has occurred on the Mexican side of the U.S. border, U.S. citizens traveling throughout Mexico should exercise caution in unfamiliar areas and be aware of their surroundings at all times.  Bystanders have been injured or killed in violent attacks in cities across the country, demonstrating the heightened risk of violence in public places. In recent years, dozens of U.S. citizens living in Mexico have been kidnapped and most of their cases remain unsolved.  U.S. citizens who believe they are being targeted for kidnapping or other crimes should notify Mexican officials, the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City, or the nearest American Consulate as soon as possible.  Any U.S. visitor who suspects they are a target should consider returning to the United States immediately.  U.S. citizens should make every attempt to travel on main roads during daylight hours, particularly the toll ("cuota") roads, which generally are more secure.  When warranted, the U.S. Embassy and consulates advise their employees as well as private U.S. citizens to avoid certain areas, abstain from driving on certain roads because of dangerous conditions or criminal activity, or recommend driving during daylight hours only.  When this happens, the Embassy or the affected consulate will alert the local U.S. citizen Warden network and post the information on their respective websites, indicating the nature of the concern and the expected time period for which the restriction will remain in place.  U.S. citizen visitors are encouraged to stay in the well-known tourist areas.  Travelers should leave their itinerary with a friend or family member not traveling with them, avoid traveling alone, and check with their cellular provider prior to departure to confirm that their cell phone is capable of roaming on GSM or 3G international networks.  Do not display expensive-looking jewelry, large amounts of money, or other valuable items. Demonstrations and Large Public Gatherings Demonstrations occur frequently throughout Mexico and usually are peaceful.  However, even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate to violence unexpectedly.  Violent demonstrations have resulted in deaths, including that of an American citizen in Oaxaca in 2006.  In 2008, a Mexican Independence Day celebration was the target of a violent attack.  During demonstrations or law enforcement operations, U.S. citizens are advised to remain in their homes or hotels, avoid large crowds, and avoid the downtown and surrounding areas.  Since the timing and routes of scheduled marches and demonstrations are always subject to change, U.S. citizens should monitor local media sources for new developments and exercise extreme caution while within the vicinity of protests.  The Mexican Constitution prohibits political activities by foreigners, and such actions may result in detention and/or deportation.  U.S. citizens are therefore advised to avoid participating in demonstrations or other activities that might be deemed political by Mexican authorities.  As is always the case in any large gathering, U.S. citizens should remain alert to their surroundings. Further Information For more detailed information on staying safe in Mexico, please see the Mexico Country Specific Information.  Information on security and travel to popular tourist destinations is also provided in the publication: "Spring Break in Mexico- Know Before You Go!!". For the latest security information, U.S. citizens traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's internet web site at http://travel.state.gov/ where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, and Travel Alerts can be found. Up-to-date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States and Canada, or, for callers from Mexico, a regular toll line at 001-202-501-4444.  These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).  American citizens traveling or residing overseas are encouraged to register with the appropriate U.S. Embassy or Consulate on the State Department's travel registration website.  For any emergencies involving U.S. citizens in Mexico, please contact the U.S. Embassy or the closest U.S. Consulate.  The U.S. Embassy is located in Mexico City at Paseo de la Reforma 305, Colonia Cuauhtemoc, telephone from the United States: 011-52-55-5080-2000; telephone within Mexico City: 5080-2000; telephone long distance within Mexico 01-55-5080-2000.  You may also contact the Embassy by e-mail at: ACSMexicoCity@state.gov The Embassy's internet address is http://www.usembassy-mexico.gov/. Consulates: Ciudad Juarez: Paseo de la Victoria 3650, tel. (52)(656) 227-3000. http://ciudadjuarez.usconsulate.gov/. Guadalajara: Progreso 175, telephone (52)(333) 268-2100. http://guadalajara.usconsulate.gov/. Hermosillo: Avenida Monterrey 141, telephone (52)(662) 289-3500. http://hermosillo.usconsulate.gov/. Matamoros: Avenida Primera 2002, telephone (52)(868) 812-4402. http://matamoros.usconsulate.gov/. Merida: Calle 60 no. 338-K x 29 y 31, Col. Alcala Martin, Merida, Yucatan, Mexico 97050, telephone (52)(999) 942-5700 or 202-250-3711 (U.S. number). http://merida.usconsulate.gov/. Monterrey: Avenida Constitucion 411 Poniente, telephone (52)(818) 047-3100. http://monterrey.usconsulate.gov/. Nogales: Calle San Jose, Nogales, Sonora, telephone (52)(631) 311-8150. http://nogales.usconsulate.gov/. Nuevo Laredo: Calle Allende 3330, col. Jardin, telephone (52)(867) 714-0512. http://nuevolaredo.usconsulate.gov/. Tijuana: Tapachula 96, telephone (52)(664) 622-7400. http://tijuana.usconsulate.gov/service.html. Consular Agencies: Acapulco: Hotel Continental Emporio, Costera Miguel Aleman 121 - local 14, telephone (52)(744) 484-0300 or (52)(744) 469-0556. Cabo San Lucas: Blvd. Marina local c-4, Plaza Nautica, col. Centro, telephone (52)(624) 143-3566. Cancún:  Plaza Caracol two, second level, no. 320-323, Boulevard Kukulcan, km. 8.5, Zona Hotelera, telephone (52)(998) 883-0272 or, from the U.S., 202-640-2511. Ciudad Acuña:  Closed until further notice. Cozumel:  Plaza Villa Mar en el Centro, Plaza Principal, (Parque Juárez between Melgar and 5th ave.) 2nd floor, locales #8 and 9, telephone (52)(987) 872-4574 or, from the U.S., 202-459-4661. Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo:  Hotel Fontan, Blvd. Ixtapa, telephone (52)(755) 553-2100. Mazatlán:  Playa Gaviotas #202, Zona Dorada, telephone (52)(669) 916-5889. Oaxaca:  Macedonio Alcalá no. 407, interior 20, telephone (52)(951) 514-3054 (52)(951) 516-2853. Piedras Negras: Abasolo #211, Zona Centro, Piedras Negras, Coah., Tel. (878) 782-5586. Playa del Carmen:  "The Palapa,"  Calle 1 Sur, between Avenida 15 and Avenida 20, telephone (52)(984) 873-0303 or, from the U.S., 202-370-6708. Puerto Vallarta:  Paradise Plaza, Paseo de los Cocoteros #1, Local #4, Interior #17, Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit, telephone (52)(322) 222-0069. Reynosa:  Calle Monterrey #390, Esq. Sinaloa, Colonia Rodríguez, telephone: (52)(899) 923 - 9331 San Luis Potosí:  Edificio "Las Terrazas", Avenida Venustiano Carranza 2076-41, Col. Polanco, telephone: (52)(444) 811-7802/7803. San Miguel de Allende:  Dr. Hernandez Macias #72, telephone (52)(415) 152-2357 or (52)(415) 152-0068. e spirit is high enough to preserve the pickled worm. Consuming the worm can be done without harm. As a rule, top-quality mezcals do not include a worm in the bottle.     Click the ad to go to our site Speak Spanish - That Should be Your Goal! Learn Spanish Today   Make 2009 the year that you learn Spanish Can you Speak Spanish? How long have you been studying Spanish? Between high school classes, college classes and you own efforts you could easily have a couple years already under your belt. During this time you have likely built up a good Spanish vocabulary, along with a basic understanding of Spanish verb conjugation. But can you speak Spanish? Why is speaking Spanish so hard? Would you feel comfortable approaching a native Spanish speaker and starting a conversation? Why not? Why is it so hard to speak Spanish evenBeginning high school and college Spanish classes, as well as most self study Spanish courses start off by teaching vocabulary and verb conjugation. You practice speaking, but the focus is on the individual word or phrase. Lists of words are memorized and tests are given on verb conjugation. So when it comes time to speak, the words and phrases are separate in your mind. It becomes a matter of trying to pull all the pieces together and form them all into a sensible sentence, not just speaking. The key to becoming more comfortable in speaking situations is to practice and learn the sentences as a whole, not in separate pieces. This way when you are trying to remember what to say, the whole sentence pops in your mind, not just one word. You will speak Spanish more correctly, more fluently and more confidently than ever before. The Visual Link Spanish Course allows you to utilize this effective way of learning and practice speaking Spanish. In our free online demo lessons, you can see how we utilize these strategies to truly teach you to speak Spanish. You will be able to recall everything you learn and words will come into your mind as a complete sentence not separate individual words. You will already be on your way to speaking Spanish more fluently and more confident  Learn Spanish Today  - Learn Spanish on-line for free, using interactive audio/visual lessons.

New with travel guide information added! Pacific Coast Road, Driving and Travel Guide Log 2010 We are confident that our road logs and driving guides will make your highway experiences just that much better and easier. Regardless of whether you are driving an RV or a suburban, a bike or a pick-up, our road logs will assist your journey. Even 20 year veterans of the route have benefited from the information. We decided to present the road from a driving perspective going SOUTH. When your are looking at the Log, you read from the bottom of the page and read up. The Pacific Ocean, for example, would always be on your right, just as you would view it from your driver's seat. The KM markings are the markings that you will see as you drive. It doesn't matter if your vehicle reads in miles or kilometers. You just read the signs on the road to get your bearings. Sometimes one highway combines with another and old kilometer signs are left up. Not to worry, just continue to read the guide. Some of the best navigation points are the Pemex Station numbers clearly marked on all gas station signs. Topes (Mexican speed bumps) are marked in the guide just to remind you to go slow. We included Military and Agriculture check points even though we know these can change frequently. (Generally they are on one side of the state border or another between the Mexican states.)   How to download and buy the Road Log Click on the buy now button and you will be directed to a merchants page.  Once you pay for the road log you will redirected to an easy to use download page where you will be able to receive your product immediately.  Now only $9.99                             Jaltemba Sol Copyright 2009 Custom Search