Archives from Cat In Puerto Morelos
This page contains the archived news from Puerto Morelos as
reported by our own "Cat" Brown.  Check out her blog at www.
catinmexico.blogspot.com

Que Paso? February 6 2008

Puerto Morelos Music Festival revs up for another great night tomorrow night
(Thursday), 8pm there will be local professional and amateur musicians there to
entertain you, be there, in the Square! Anna and Tonio from Tuna are opening a new
bar - in Playa, you are invited to the opening night Friday from 8pm - The Zion Club,
opens with Montebong - reggae world beat, no cover, Av Juarez and Calle 25 Norte in
front of Bancomer. Saturday 9 Moyenei from Chile and
Sunday 10 Bosquimano. Recently in Casa del Toucan was Michele Waite and family -
Michele took many pictures of PM (like this Volkswagon one) and you can see more of
her great pics of PM on her blog just click here. Michele is a very talented wedding
photographer, if you know someone planning a wedding I happen to know she could
be easily tempted to come back here! Recycling in Centro de Abastos - Pilar and
Miguel have a great recycling project, working with the Municipal government they
are contacting 154 hotels and restaurants in Cancun in an effort to have them deliver
their plastics for recycling, the plastics are sorted by hand into different types and
then compacted in to 40 kg bundles, they are looking for buyers for this product so if
you know anyone please email Miguelmiguelsaad@dccancun.com or call 998 1595241.
Part of the profits from this sale goes to maintenance of Park Kabah in Cancun. You
can take your own plastic bottles there Mon-Fri, go under the arch into Centro
Abastos, drive straight ahead to the end then left then right in to Calle Segundo, it is
on the left number 503. Puerto Morelos Clinic - Angie Zehm volunteered her holiday
time to train the doctors at our clinic in the new ultrasound machine, she is seen here
with the first PM mother to use the machine, she holds the first picture of her baby.
The heart beat on the left is mine used to test the EKG machine the charity donated to
the clinic. Having dinner at the Pescador above the fishing co-op last night were two
young doctors from Monterrey, Hector and Miguel, seen with Cynthia. They are trying
to be assigned to PM for their final year and we are helping them to stay here, they
speak English and are trained in ultrasound technology and trauma medicine, skills we
think will be wasted in outlying villages and are really needed here. The ceviche at
Pescador was excellent, the service good and beer cold, the fish fillets were just soso
with a little rice and boiled veggies for 140 pesos. John Gray's Mother in Law, La
Suegra, opened on Tuesday morning on the beach in the old Casa Azul location for
breakfast and lunch, what a wonderful location, Eric from Montreal seen here
perusing the menu which contains Chicken Fried Steak, eggs ranchero, muffins, fruit
plate with yogurt, lots more, and coffee, juice and bloody mary's (main courses 75p) .
Coming soon will be cold meat and cheese type deli items. Mama's Bakery is in their
new location with a new lick of paint. From the 12th heart shaped cookies, cherry pie
and black forest cake. Valentine's special orders the week before call 998 8456810.
Also serving breakfast is Bar Ixchel which has international bar snacks and
sandwiches during the day and this coming Saturday and Sunday (and following
Sundays) beach barbecue from 2pm featuring 'celebrity' chefs, 65p-100p a plate
depending on what's being served! Chimmichurri has opened opposite Posada Amor
serving Argentinian fare and Caracol is also currently undergoing a refit to become an
other Argentinian restaurant. El Rey Polo Tournament - started with terrible rains that
cancelled the first weekend. The final 4 days of the tournament saw some eye popping
playing by the Argentinians (Perrier), challenged early on by the Merida team (Corona)
in the end the Andalusia team took the Cup this year. Opened recently a little Video
Club opposite Habanero's, 34 hour rentals at 29 pesos, pretty good. And opposite the
Handicraft market if you want a really quick and cheap snack they are serving
antojitos. Friday mornings 0830 on the beach in front of Amar Inn is Yoga with Kelly
(998 1967850) followed by a swim in our picture perfect sea - priceless! If you have put
your back out you can always then visit Mauro in his new location in side Amar Inn.
Don't forget the jungle market is open Sundays too in Calle 2, Zona Urbana. El Mundo
para Puerto Morelos held its first meeting for the year, a board was elected Catriona
Brown, Silvia Rubio, Patti Pearson, Frank Reams and in Texas Tony Sansone and Kay
McMillan - we are looking for volunteers to help with specific projects for the schools
and community, come and talk with us at Frank's Meet and greet on Friday from 5pm at
Habaneros and see if there is a project that suits your timing and inclination or drop
me an email. We are specifically looking for someone to develop our web page, a
liaison person for the schools, liaison person for the hotels, someone to make our
voucher book for PM businesses, someone to do our printing and much more, we
would love to hear from you.


Que Paso? January 15 2008

Happy New Year to everyone! There was a great beach party here on NYE that went
through to the early hours in front of Tuna but I missed it as I was dancing to great
music in Austin, Texas! When you live all year round here it is great to escape
somewhere for good music and food. I laughed a lot with my wonderful friends in
Texas and enjoyed the crisp winter days. Now it is back to flip flops and back to work
for everybody including me - plans for the new houses I am building are taking shape
and will publish them soon for purchase off the plan.
Puerto Morelos is packed with people and we have new openings: La Terraza, Al
Chimichurri, Pescador, Bar Ixchel and coming soon a new restaurant on the beach. Al
Chumichurro is a new place for Eduardo of Gauchos, they will be opening on Saturday,
firing up the brick oven and will serve empanadas, pizzas, pasta, grills, beer, wine,
coffee. They are opposite Posada Amor and next month will have tables in the garden
behind ph 2089120. La Terraza, next to El Pirata, were closed for low season and have
reopened with a little cafeteria downstairs opening later this week serving cakes and
coffee. Upstairs, Argelia explains, they specialise in 100% natural foods with bread,
cakes, pasta made on the premises and 100% pure juices. They have improved the
stairs from last year, they are now spiral mmmm. Above the fishing co-op is La Casa
del Pescador serving soups, salads, chicken, ceviches and fish fillets (100-130p) and I
can't wait to taste their Mexican Snarks! Big hit this week was the opening of Bar
Ixchel, Tom Lockerbie's beach shack, perched in the sand between Star Wars (OK,
Ocean Homes) and Tuna. Featuring Ms Sara and Uve the service was great, beer cold,
margaritas strong and Sunday Ray cooked his famous Jamaican ribs and chicken and
sold out so next week they'll do it again after 2 pm on the beach. Home Depot has
reopened in their new location next to Soriana, much bigger and more stock, signs in
spanish and english, large gardening department and lighting fixtures enlarged too.
And I know you are not going to believe this but as I was scrapping around in the
shower heads section an attendant came up and asked is she could help me and
stayed with me until I found everything! 3rd Puerto Morelos Music Festival started last
Thursday to a great and happy crowd, Gnomos, Jan and Steve and the wonderful Men
in Blues opened the Festival. There was even a sighting of a man in a suit! The
festival is an incentive of the Casa del Cultura and has another 3 nights to go, please
see diary below and we'll see you in the square at 8.30pm Thursday 24th to enjoy the
local professional and amateur musicians on stage. The El Rey Polo Tournament starts
this weekend you are welcome to come and watch the sport of kings. Opening
speeches, Mayan Purification at around 12 on Saturday and the first game at 2pm, see
below for dates of the games. There is food and drink available or you can bring a
picnic, be prepared for divet stomping. Indian Mayan Posada?- well I stopped by and
chatted to the builder of this fascinating structure and he says it will be a small inn
when finished but may take another year to do so, made out of stone and hand carved
timbers from India should be a wonderful addition to our town. Look no towers - they
have finally done it, the huge powerlines running through the centre of the colonia
are finally underground, anyone hear elections in the air? Kinder Cinco de Mayo in the
colonia, I admit I had a huge lump in my throat when I saw the children eating in their
new lunchroom yesterday, we are not quite finished yet but they are able to use it,
thankyou thankyou thankyou to everyone who helped make this possible, the
teachers, parents and children thank you too. We continue to have wonderful visitors
who bring gifts for the schools and here you see the new principal Silvia Cardenas
opening a wonderful package of goodies donated by visitors. The teachers at the the
primary schools were thrilled to get their basketballs, soccer balls and basketball nets
will go up this week. The kinder is asking for things for their new lunchroom plastic
table cloths, chairs, tables, kitchen utensils, decorations for the walls, curtains and
the primary school is looking for white board markers and cleaning and garbage
things for the school. If you want more details let me know. Frank's Meet and Greet -
Frank (vivapuertomorelos.com) has started a meet and greet for every Friday night at
5pm at Posada Amor with Anna: locals who have helped tourists organise their
holidays will be there along with business owners, so if you are coming into town or
know someone who'd like to meet us - come on down, the beer is cold, we will have
charity shirts for sale and be able to help with your holiday plans too. UPDATE
JANUARY 18TH due to some strange happenings at Posada Amor last night the venue
for the meet and Greet has changed to Cantina Habaneros! Anna and Frank will be
there tonight
Diario - feel free to email me if you want to add something to the Diary
Friday 18th 5pm Posada Amor meet and Greet
Saturday 19th 12pm Opening of El Rey Polo Tournament, Ruta de Cenotes, Centro
Vallarta
Sunday 20th Jungle Market Calle 2, Zona Urbana
Sunday 20th 12pm Hat Brunch at El Rey Polo Club, chukkers start at 2pm
Tuesday 22nd Polo at 11.00am
Friday 25th Polo Semifinals start at 1pm
Friday 25th meet and greet Posada Amor 5pm
Saturday 26th Polo finals start at 1pm
Sunday 27th Jungle Market
Thursday 24th 8.30pm Puerto Morelos Music Festival

Que Paso? December 21

The 2nd Annual Benefit Night had 22 fabulous auction prizes and 4 door prizes.
People's generosity on the evening was incredibly moving for all of us and definitely
put us all in the Xmas spirit. We raised just over 60,000 pesos exactly achieving our
goal of paying for the construction of the lunchroom and kitchen at the kindergarten
in the Colonia. The gentleman who bought the Ultrajewels bracelet graciously
returned it to the charity to auction again, thank you.I urge you to support the
businesses of our sponsors without whom there would have been no evening! Or
drop in and thank them if you have time, it will make a difference. John Gray and Bush,
Paco and Karl (from 14 in Cancun) , GM Hector Lopez of Hotel El Cid Marina, Jennifer
Hamer of Ultrafemme, Karen Scott of Gringo Furniture, Marilyn O'Connor of Arrecife
Developments, Liza Piorkowski and Hola Asia, Scott Olsen of Carribean Shores Realty,
Crescent of Aquanauts, Amber Pierce of Mayan Riviera Real Estate, Mike McDonald of
Playasol, Sandy and Arthur Matas, Enrique of Almost Heaven, Damien at Pelicanos,
Graciela at Bodo's, Cancun Rehab Centre, Martina of Martina's Oasis and Mauro and
Ginny Jaramillo of Thyself be Healed (returns Jan 30th) . Thanks also to the wonderful
volunteers who worked so hard to achieve this event: Tom, Janet, Sonvya, Tony,
Kirsten, Rachel, Marguerite and Sylvia.
And there's more: Amber and Josh of Mayan Riviera Real Estate have another
absolutely gorgeous bottle of tequila (you can just see it behind the Corona) sitting in
their office (on the square) , drop in and pick up a raffle ticket it will be drawn this
weekend. You could take home something very special!
New Dive shop in town - Aquanauts has opened in Hacienda Morelos, they have an
enthusiastic crew and a great location we wish them all the best ph 2069365. New
machine at public clinic - Tejas amigos de Puerto Morelos (Anita, Billy, Lucky & Becky,
Jeff & Helene and Tony & Pam Sansone) purchased an Ob/Gyn ultrasound machine for
the Public Health Clinic in Puerto Morelos. It is now installed and ready to work but the
Health Department cannot afford to roster anyone to come once a week! Well I guess
that is our next project - any ideas anyone has would be greatly appreciated. Seen in
the picture from left Julian Molina a technician flown down to set up the machine, Dr
Hector Llanos of the Health Department in Cancun, Moi and Tony Sansone. Eating out
during the holidays - Bodo's has Xmas menu of 3 courses that includes Wild Duck or
Salmon with Lobster sauce for 400p or 350p and for New Year's 3 courses with Grilled
Seafood plate or Rib Eye for 650p reservations 871 0449. New England Pub at Hotel
Inglaterra has for Xmas day 5 courses including waldorf salad, turkey and ham for 230
pesos ph 2069081. Mama's Bakery has Christmas Cookies! and John Gray's has
something but check back later for what it is! Hola Asia is closed 24,25 and 31
December and 1 January. I will update if and when I receive other information. You
can see below Puerto Morelos Frank is enjoying Xmas in Bavaria! This is my last
newsletter until New Year - I am off on a short trip during which I intend to have as
much fun as a girl can legally! Tell all, well most, when I get back. Merry Xmas and
Happy New Year to you all. December 23rd
9.30-3pm Jungle Market Mayan Folklore Dance inauguration day, they have been
practising for 4 months!
6pm Christmas Posada in the Square, Angels, Devil, Mary and Joseph in an all star
cast, to be broadcast live on Radio Caribe - a must see Puerto Morelos event!
December 31st
New Year's Eve beach Party Tuna Farewell at Tuna


Que Paso? December 12th

John Grays Benefit Night is next week on Tuesday December 18th at 7pm if you have
not yet booked your seat remember to do so as he only has 42 places and many are
gone! Your 450 pesos entry fee goes completely to the charity and John Provides the
appetisers and drinks. We have gathered some great silent auction prizes including 2
nights at El Cid, 4 seats on a catamaran cruise, furniture from Gringo furniture, dinner
at Hola Asia, a present from Ultrafemme, a stone massage with Martina, snorkel trips,
discover scuba lessons, original signed prints from Sandy Matas, body therapy with
Mauro and some surprises to be unveiled on the night! So should be a lot of fun.
Proceeds from this event will go towards the construction of the new kitchen and
lunchroom at the kindergarten in the colonia. Open to all. Mexican Revolution day was
marked with the traditional parades and music and dancing, one of the reasons we
love this town and the children. Thanks to David Roberts Photography for the snaps.
December 12 marks the start of Guadalupe Reyes - the 26 day long party season that
ends on January 6th, Three Kings Day. Watch out for the marathon runners on the
highway at all times of day and night as they run for Guadalupe. Millions of people will
journey to Basilica de Santa Maria de Guadalupe, the church that was built on the site
where she is believed to have appeared to Juan Diego on Dec. 12, 1531. Landowners:
don't forget to pay your predial before end of December to get your 25 % discount.
Take your last receipt with you. There's a new hamburger joint - opens in the evenings
until late, MacPancho's offers up Big Shane's hamburger for 30 pesos, what a bargain,
perfect for the munchies at night. They are on the road past Hacienda Morelos
opposite the High School on the beach. Hot dogs and fried potato chips as well. John ,
of the hats that light up, is back in town. Back home John collects discarded bicycles
and renovates them and donates them to local children - here he is with a Puerto
Morelos special.
Lazy days and family visits - here is Randy enjoying a Pacifico with is brother at
Habaneros. Did you know Randy was the first person to put his hand in his pocket for
the charity? El Rey Polo Club drew even with Andalusia at a corporate event on Friday
afternoon, Eduardo and Manolo pictured after the first chukker. What's for dinner?
The holiday season seafood collection at Costco had a new addition this week and I
bought some without knowing what they were. Sandy cooked a marvelous pasta
marinara with them and later Jill Yaeger, my neighbour (PhD in Biology and about to
have a crustacean named after her, seen in the bazaar pictures holding a baby) said
they were goose necked barnacles, actually a crustacean. You know I have travelled a
lot and eaten some pretty wild things but Mexico just surprised me, you eat the soft
insides, usually in a sauce, flavour like a mix between squid and clams. Free Love:
Here is a little love and music from the Sick Puppies from a few years ago from my
home town - click here for a good feeling and a look at a Sydney shopping street.
Really cheap calls to USA Canada and other international: for information on a cheap
call service that connects through your high speed internet click here
Fun at the bazaar was had by all. We had many donations from all over the town and
some wonderful linens from Liza at Playa Secreto as well as all sorts of household
odds and ends. The sales of the t-shirts went well as did Frank's Chilli and hot dogs.
There was much socialising and many happy children. Joy looked marvellous
alongside Marco in his new charity t-shirt and Anna shares a joke with Goyo.
Volunteers Heidi and Cynthia chat while bazaar organiser Patti surveys the tables.
Emily enjoyed manning Marguerite's table and Mike ably assisted Frank in kitchen
duties. Our wonderful banner was designed by Marguerite, outlined by Silvia, painted
by Sonvya and erected by Tony and cutdown and stolen the night before the bazaar,
how odd. From Colorado: recently Ms Crade's First grade Class at Summit Elementary,
Divide, Colorado, took up a collection and donated school supplies to the Primary
school here in the Puerto. Xmas Party: Last Saturday was also the party in the colonia
to hand out presents, El Mundo para Puerto Morelos donated 22 boxes of food and
Emilio delivered for us. Martinas Oasis Spa and Mobile services wants you to know
that she will be closed on Wednesdays and Christmas and New Year's Day
Remember you can click on the pictures to enlarge them.
December 15 5pm Maroma Garden
Kirsti Alopaeus exhibition opening of the new collection "Tropico de Suenos." more
info 998 8728248
December 16th
9.30am-3pm Opening day for Jungle Market, Calle 2, Zona Urbana, 17 women
participating
December 18th
10am Public launch by Health Department of the charity's donation of the Ultrasound
machine, Secretary of Health to attend.
7pm 2nd Annual Charity Dinner John Grays 8710665. Silent Auction includes 2 days
free AI at El Cid, 4 seats on Catamaran cruise, Ultrafemme surprise, Selvatica tickets
and more!
December 19th
Reopening of Jungle spa with new relaxation treats 10m-4pm ph 2089148 for
appointments
December 23rd
9.30-3pm Jungle Market Mayan Folklore Dance inauguration day, they have been
practising for 4 months!
6pm Christmas Posada in the Square, Angels, Devil, Mary and Joseph in an all star
cast, to be broadcast live on Radio Caribe - a must see Puerto Morelos event!
December 31st
New Year's Eve beach Party Tuna Farewell at Tuna

Que Paso? November 28th

7th National Conservation Week will be celebrated by the opening of a 2 day
exhibition at 5pm Saturday December 1st in the National Park Visitors Centre,
sculptures, paintings, ceramics, glass and handicrafts on display to the theme of
'Trazos de Coral, Arena y Manglar'. All welcome 2 days only, free entry.
Are you hot? The debate on Global Warming gets a touch of logic. Click HERE for an
interesting look at this topic from the phenomenon that is You Tube
Red Red Wine Fernanda in Villa Morelos is giving 20% off her wine therapy treatment
includes ex foliation, paraffin, red wine and a massage ph 998 1891466
John Grays Benefit Dec 18th - call 8710665 to book your seat. We now have the great
silent auction items coming in, including 2 nights all inclusive at El Cid, 4 seats on a
Catamaran Cruise, tickets to Selvatica , dinner at Hola Asia, furniture from gringo
Furniture and there will be much more
Jungle Drums Jungle spa and market days start up again in December please see
calendar below and watch for more information on the Christmas Posada
Hot Stuff - hot news is El Mundo para Puerto Morelos has just released their first polo
shirt to raise funds for the charity, only 200p each you can look cool and help the
charity while just walking around! Men's, Women's and Children's styles in white. They
will go on sale at the bazaar but you may be able to twist Frank's arm and get them in
advance if you hurry ph 2069030, daleandfrank@yahoo.com. Sandro, who heads up
Water Sports at Maroma Hotel was kind enough to model for us.
Dec 8th Bazaar - where are all the things for us to sell? Are you saving it up for the
last minute? Please drop off goods at Frank's or Catriona's call 2069235 if you need a
pick up. Thanks to Marguerite Broyles for the great artwork
Bara Bara has started the season with a bang, there's been quite a few people lost in
action there lately and some great late night music.
Want to play Doctor? You will be pleased to know that the charity this week delivered
an ultrasound machine to the public clinic in Puerto Morelos! thanks to generous
donations from our Texan friends and lots of hard work. This will enable the pregnant
women of PM to have their check ups here instead of Cancun.
Thanksgiving in Puerto Morelos was a quiet enough affair, lots of private dinners and
sleepy people some even enjoyed the beach afternoon and a game of boules
TaTa Tuna - Anna and Antonio had a great time in Oaxaca after Tuna closed and are
pleased to announce a beach party on New Years Eve at Tuna with a DJ coming in
from London
Dates in December - so much going on I am starting a December calendar for you
December 1st
5pm Exhibition Opening National Park Visitors Centre
December 2nd
Day to clean out closets and sheds for bazaar treasures
December 5th
Last day to take all your unwanted treasures to Frank and Catriona's for sale at the
Bazaar
December 8th
11am-3pm Charity Bazaar in Parque - bargains, food and local artists
December 16th
9.30am-3pm Opening day for Jungle Market, Calle 2, Zona Urbana, 17 women
participating
December 18th
7pm 2nd Annual Charity Dinner John Grays 8710665. Silent Auction includes 2 days
free AI at El Cid, 4 seats on Catamaran cruise, Selvatica tickets and more!
December 19th
Possible date of launch of our donation of Ultrasound machine to Public Clinic, stay
tuned
Reopening of Jungle spa with new relaxation treats 10m-4pm ph 2089148 for
appointments
December 23rd
9.30-3pm Jungle Market Mayan Folklore Dance inauguration day, they have been
practising for 4 months!
6pm Christmas Posada in the Square, Angels, Devil, Mary and Joseph in an all star
cast, to be broadcast live on Radio Caribe - a must see Puerto Morelos event!
December 31st
New Year's Eve beach Party Tuna Farewell at Tuna


Que Paso ? November 18th

Turtle View - thanks to David Yeabsley for this beautiful sunset photo on the right of
PM. Very mild weather we are having with the nights cooling off a little.
Sailing in the Rain - the first visiting yacht of the season arrived on a rainy Friday
morning. Restaurant happening's - left from the last list of restaurants still going
strong were Hola Asia and Bodo's, did you know that before they built Hola Asia there
was a derelict bank building on that corner? New Mexican food place opened
between Posada Amor and Handicraft market - called Doña Guilla's they serve
traditional Mexican cuisine and right now a very good pozole, every night and Sunday
mornings. Also opened is a small restaurant inside Hotel Inglaterra, the New England
Pub, open 8am-2pm and 7pm-10pm daily, mixed menu very reasonable prices. Owners
Martina and Dieter have a Thanksgiving dinner 3 courses for 180 pesos ph 206 9081.
Worth noting that Marina El Cid restaurant is now open for breakfast, lunch and
dinner, from 7am every day. Caracol is closed due to rent increase, the lovely people
from there are returning to Switzerland (they are selling lots of bits and pieces so
drop in for a bargain). Buy paradise and put in a parking lot - so another hotel to come,
you know when you go past La Petit France and turn inland and then back to where
Acamaya Reef is? Well that whole block is now cleared and filled, bye bye mangrove,
bye bye Chit Palms.

Bazaar news - all going strong for the bazaar December 8th but we need your
donations to sell - clothes, furniture, books and odds and ends. Barefoot and cooking -
baked goods needed too for the bazaar, cookies, cakes, jams, preserves, pickles, all
very popular at the bazaar. Kitty Corner - big raid on street dogs last week also netted
Franciszka's dogs, when she and Sandy went to collect them they were told that the
pound would be in PM every Wednesday and Friday with their police escort. Signs still
not changed on the beach. Deena recomends reading about trainer Judy Moore who
teaches 'Dialogue' for dog training http://www.helpyourdog.com. We are wondering
why a system of dog license tags is not introduced here - would be a revenue stream
and would stop this aggressive targeting of local's pets. Leon Salas of Emergency
Services is in Tabasco with a team working with the Red Cross and would like to get
home, they have spent all their money helping the people there and need fuel and
tolls to return if you can help him he would appreciate it Banamex 1191816 branch 820!

Yikes more Minnesotans - lovely PM story in the Star Tribune click here to read. Really
we love Minnesotans, they all love to have fun, to eat and drink out and chill on the
beach and they all love PM just the way it is, so more the merrier I think. El Rey Polo
Club has some new riders, pictured on the left are Kelly, Ana, Cat and Michelle and
Alex in training on the right with Eduardo and family day for the Opening of the new
club house.

John Grays 2nd Annual Benefit Dinner is on December 18th at 7pm call 871 0665 to
book your seats only 450p entry for John's yummy appetisers and drinks with some
very cool silent auction prizes. This year the funds raised go to pay for the new
lunchroom and kitchen we are building for the kindergarten, they are currently
cooking in the principal's office and eating at desks. The number for his restaurant 14
in Cancun is 840 6146.

Dentist in town - noticed a sign go up this week for a new dentist in town, has been
missing here for a couple of years now, he is in the office building behind the Church.
Dr. Alejandro Sanchez also has surgeries in Cancun and Playa and Martha Uscanda
says he has done great work for her. Turkey time - spotted on a roof drying off the
other morning were 18 vultures, you know at home we have parakeets and cockatoos
annoying us on the verandah, Mexico just has to be different!

Books - just in time for those lazy days on the beach, bookstore owners Rob and
Joanne were spotted back in town after diverting around floods in Tabasco to get
here, no doubt the store will open soon. Cablemas - has a promotion on for their new
digital phones, if you are already hooked up to Cablemas they will give a digital phone
connection for 290p www.cablesmas.com. Telmex - you can now view your Telmex bills
online, just in case they are not delivered (gee, they finally caught on) Mi Telmex www.
telmex.com     


Que Paso? November 8th 2007

Day of the Dead was celebrated in the Parque this year with displays from the schools
and the Casa del Cultura and with much teenage excitement the high school won first
prize for their efforts.
Baby Emma was born on November 1st to Kathy and Jacques, Puerto Morelians who
have recently moved to Playacar. The pics are of Emma's first day and her first feed,
aahhh. Jacques says she is the most beautiful baby in the world, everyone is healthy
and very happy. The little kitty from last week found a home with another doting
mother in Playacar too so all well there.

El Mundo par Puerto Morelos started work on building the kitchen and lunchroom for
the students at Kinder Cinco de Mayo in the colonia and here are the first shots of the
construction along with our trusty volunteer Kirsten managing the site looked on by
the school Principal

December 8th - Annual Charity Bazaar - please look around to see what you can
contribute, all that old junk lying around, come on time to clean up. Goods can be
dropped at Cat's House if they need indoor storage (Av Ninos Heroes 780) or at
Frank's (Blue Dolphin House Rojo Gomez) if they can be stored outdoors or we can
come and pick up from your house or hotel. We need volunteers on the day too and
any local artists who want to sell their wares need to talk to Patti ppearson@emppm.
com

December 18th - 2nd Annual Benefit Dinner at John Gray's Kitchen, this year dedicated
to raising funds to pay for building the much needed kitchen and lunch room (El
Comedor) at the kinder, the kiddies get a meal each day provided by the school at the
moment being cooked in the principal's little office and eaten at desks. It will also
provide them with an indoor play and party room. There will be amazing items for
auction at the dinner and a great door prize - the seats are very limited, will let you
know next week the time, cost and phone number. It was great fun last year and will
be again.

New in town - on that note Portabello's reopened last night as David Lau's with a
Gourmet Chinese and Pizza menu (hey I thought that was Shanghai Pizzas gig?)menu
includes Duck, Partridge, Rib-eye steak with shitake mushrooms and many other
tempting morsels, review to come.

Coming Soon: John Gray's flower shop catering to rental houses, hotels and
restaurants, should make a pretty view in the old car park spot.

Secret beach bar? It now has a name - Beach Club and Bar Ixchel - full bar and yummy
tapas, opening soon, beach umbrellas and beach fun and the world famous Sara at the
bar, between Star Wars and Tuna.

Local Artist returns - Marguerite is back in her pretty painted house near the vet's on
Ninos Heroes - she invites you to drop in and buy some of her art, she has art for your
walls, some really cute thoughtful cards for gifts, fridge magnets with wisdom,
jewellery and clothes, all welcome. Marguerite has kindly volunteered her time to
design the colour scheme for the kinder lunchroom we are building.

Boys with Toys - Spotted on the road today was Gabriel with his bulldozer filling those
holes - gracias! Then there's Josh with the racing car he bought and stored in a house
which was then bricked up, so what he do, he bought the house! and now he has his
car back.
All good news here and this morning I didn't think I had anything to tell you!

Community message from the Red Cross - if you live here or know people who do
could you please programme your cell phone with 'A Emergencia' at the top of the list
of your contacts, this way if you are in an accident the rescuers can easily access the
person you want contacted first in case of emergency. New link - have a look at my
Cancun airport link with the links on the right- you can check all airline flight arrival
and departures and lots of useful airport info for your visitors

Que Paso? October 29th

Puerto Morelos is brushing itself up getting ready for you all to return and the fun and
games of tourist season, even the taxi stand got a new coat of paint. Don't forget we
have gone off daylight savings as of last Sunday.
I hope to be announcing some new restaurant openings soon but right now its all
about closings. Saddest of all is the closure of Tuna, due to complaints about noise. It
is sad for all of us not to have the great live music that Anna and Antonio worked so
hard to pull into Puerto Morelos. Sad for the people who worked there too! They are
scouting around looking for another venue so stay tuned. Portabellos closed some
time ago but the news is David (ex Hola Asia chef) is reopening it soon and its
rumoured Valerie will work with him, its going to retain the Mediterranean theme.
Bacabs is also closed and Baraka (Alise plans to open another venue on the highway)
and this week El Faro closed too. John Gray's Kitchen is going strong as is Gauchos,
Caracol, Amancias. La Petita, Tio's, Triny's and El Pirata. Rosio's Juice Bar has
expanded (between Police and Dive shop) and on the other street Mimi's has had a
face lift. Mama's Bakery will reopen early November. A pool ands outdoor fitness
centre has been built behind the new 'mall'. Habaneros has a pizza menu now and
apparently they are pretty darn good. Great news is about John Gray's new restaurant
in Cancun - 14 - its called 14 and is at Kilometre 14 nestled on the lagoon it has
beautiful views, water all around, a sushi bar and the wonderful Karl as chef. Its open
for lunch and dinner and is a MUST, food is great, wine list exceptional, I love the
sashimi there and there are all sorts of great dishes and please please leave room for
dessert!

Dean hit parts of our beaches with a fury some areas lost what we gained with Wilma
but of course its still beautiful. The fishing pier in town is a little bent out of shape,
Ceiba's pier is being repaired as we speak, UNAM's new concrete pier is complete and
they have started work on renovating their office and accommodation building.

El Mundo para Puerto Morelos has started up again and our major project is building a
lunch room and kitchen at the kindergarten in the colonia, they are currently cooking
in the principal's office and eating at desks or outside if the weather is fair. This is a
$6000 project so you will be hearing about some fundraising going on soon. We have
already received nearly half the amount from 3 individuals thank you thank you thank
you. Our next fabulous bazaar is scheduled for December 8th in the town square so if
you are cleaning out your cupboards think of us! The Annual benefit dinner at John
Gray's is coming soon too and we have a new logo to launch and you will be able to
buy some pretty cool shirts to support the charity as well. The firemen received some
more uniforms last week, down from Texas, and we are helping a family with travel and
accommodation costs for their son's heart operation in Mexico City, the ultrasound
machine for the clinic is due to arrive in November due to generous donations from
our Texan friends and we continue our support and supplies for the schools and
clinics of Puerto Morelos.

We want to thank Palace resorts who sent a team of people to Puerto last week and
did a big beach clean up from the Fishing Pier to the docks - thankyou

El Rey Polo Club has almost finished its new clubhouse and they will be having a
picnic day soon to celebrate. Little Surprise was born 2 weeks ago at the club. The big
polo tournament, the El Rey Cup, is January 18-24 for your diaries.

Kitty Corner - Well its almost over for the dogs of PM, apparently the new signs go up
on the beach next month - no dogs at all from the Dock to Ceiba del Mar. This little
kitty turned up on Carol's doorstep in Playacar looking for love - anyone in Puerto
want a kitty, she cannot keep it. Just email me. Below are completely irrelevant
pictures of my grandson hamming it up for the camera, Alex enjoying beach fun and a
Vietnamese beach dog. See more about Vietnam on the post below this one.
It's great to be back.



August 23 in Mahahual - things they need

We will try and send another truck load on Monday - things are very bad down there,
they said we were the first people to bring anything!!! Army pulling out tomorrow, red
cross due on Monday in the meantime..of course Electricity Commission is already on
the job!
This is what they have asked for>>>>>>>>> via the delegado FRANCISCO MARTIN DIAZ
please drop off at PIXAN!

FOOD AND WATER AND FUEL
vegetables- tomatoes, onions, potatoes, chiles, limes, apples, bananas
milk, eggs, meat, rice, beans,
jamaica, tamarindo
sugar, salt, cooking oil
gas for cooking
cooking utensils
gasoline for the generators
diesel
oil for machines
chain saw
earth moving trucks!
basic first aid medicines

Remembering Mike Manzur

It is with sadness that I learned of Mike Manzur’s death, last August 16, following a car
accident. Poetic justice in a way, as he shares that date with Elvis Presley, the 'King,
who also died on August 16, but in 1977.

I will always have very fond memories of Mike. Over the past five years, I had the
pleasure to play with Mike on many occasions, in Puerto Morelos (at Habanero’s,
Portobello’s, and Tuna’s), in Playa del Carmen and in Cancun, with other musicians
from Québec, the USA, Mexico, and Europe.

He was a great guitar player, and a genial musician. Mike Manzur always was very
generous on stage during performances, always letting other musicians share the
spotlight with him.

I regret his untimely death, (is death ever timely?), and I will always treasure my
memories of him, on and off the stage. Mike Manzur was indeed a friend, to everyone.
Never judgmental, never criticizing, always supportive.

May he rest in peace.
Long live the Blues!
Bluesman,
aka Jean Prévost
Montréal, Québec, Canada and Puerto Morelos
August 23, 2007


Hurricane Watch 19 August 2007

Hurricane meeting last night gave information on what services are available and
what numbers to call for assistance.
PUBLIC SECURITY 8841913
MINISTERIO PUBLICO 998 2114 2757 998 2167493
HELP TO EVACUATE 8710525

Most importantly made it clear that if evacuation is called it will be MANDATORY, they
do not want foreigners staying in the their houses like last time. Representatives from
Police, Army, PFP and public security will be patrolling the town.

There is another meeting tonight at the Sindicata de Taxistas in the Colonia 6PM-
please try and attend, there are a lot of people going to a lot of trouble to help you.
Please do NOT leave it up to me to let you know about your own, your friends and
workers, safety.

Please make sure all is secure in your house or your friends' if they are not here -
there has already been an incident with someone uninvited on a beach front property.

If you are evacuated you will go to a refuge in the colonia - primary school,
kindergarten, adventist church, you must take water and food to last 2 days at least.
We are currently on yellow alert. Please be aware of possible strong water surge and
flooding this time.
Thanks to Bush and Mike Bell for donations of mattresses and food and water for the
refuges in the colonia. This will really help people.

LINKS to NOAA HERE
LINK to the Weather Channel news (includes news from Caribbean islands and
Jamaica) - HERE.

If you wish to help with Hurricane relief and you are not here.....
Cheques may be made out to Commonwealth Housing Corp and in the memo line write
FBO: El Mundo para Puerto Morelos and send to the on the ground co-ordinator c/o
Kay McMillan, 4115 Honeycomb Rock Circle, Austin, Texas 78731-2015 and they will be
transferred to Puerto Morelos and you will receive official acknowledgement.

Que Paso? August 15th

Thundery days and lightning shows at night, cooled down a lot this week. The charity
has a lot of projects to achieve this year, we need your help, apart from money we
need people to take on projects, please let me know if you can take one of the
projects from our barrel, we'll give you a great head start and the town will benefit.
You'll feel great!
KITTY CORNER
Dog meeting last week spawned a petition which Deena was circulating, the result of
this is yet to be known.
Spay and neuter clinic was very succesful over the last two days . 47 animals on the
first day and 41 on Tuesday - bunny, cats and dogs. The wonderful people from VIDAS
of Denver recruited vets from all over States and this year brought 3 x 3rd year
students. They spent 2 days here and 3 days in Playa working from 8am to 7pm. Thanks
to volunteers for intake, recovery and cleaning animals. Amazing job done by all. The
whole community benefits. Thanks also to Lisa and Miguel for free accommodation for
the volunteers at Playa Secreto Beach Villa - most generous.

Remember you need to care for your pets in a different way in the tropics - fleas, ticks
and heartworm are normal occurrences and your pet needs to have constant
treatment against them to prevent life threatening diseases and household
infestations. Please ask our local vet Jorge for the best treatment for your pet - do not
let them go untreated, the treatment and cost of the subsequent diseases is highly
undesirable.

CELESTUN
Last weekend another wonderful couple of days in Merida, really the gourmet capital
of the Peninsula. Enjoyed watching a friendly game of Polo and then on Sunday a trip
to Celestun - easy side trip to the East from Merida. This beach side community is
famous for CRABS - we had stone crab claws - just delicious, crab ceviche, crab with
butter, pulpo with garlic and prawn ceviche, 5 margaritas, beer and soft drinks for 900
pesos, sitting on the beach watching the world go by. Now why do we live here again?
On the way stopped in the small village of Hunucma famous for being the location of
the proposed new Merida airport but also the home of Zapateria Franco, another of
the Peninsula's artisans - I ordered a pair of hand made riding boots in his shop that
smells of leather and history.
POLO
Don't forget to let your visitors know ( or remind yourself) that there is more than the
normal fun in Merida next weekend - beach Polo is at the Progresso Pier on Saturday
and Sunday from 2 pm. You get to watch the sport of Kings for free and party on the
beach afterward. Sponsors include Corona, Coca Cola, Magra and Xtabentun
ON THE ROAD
Click here for a handy piece of paper to have in your foreign plated car!
CANCUN AIRPORT FOR A MASSAGE?
XpresSpa announces the opening of two new spas located at Cancun International
Airport, Mexico in Terminals 2 & 3. You don’t have to buy a first class ticket to
experience first class service and complete relaxation at the airport.
The XpresSpas will provide travelers with a full line of services including Massages,
Waxing, Facials, Manicures and Pedicures. XpresSpa also carries a line of products
and gift items see www.XpresSpa.com
YOUR DONATIONS AT WORK - FIREMENS WORKSHOP
Last week we ran a 3 day workshop in my house for the Puerto Morelos and Cancun
Firemen and woman . El Mundo paid for one airfare for the three volunteer
instructors. many thanks go to Billy Webb, instructor and retired fireman from Austin,
Texas, and Lieutentant Enrique Medina and Javier Saucedo from the Bomberos of
Saltillo, Mexico who flew down here to help our fire fighters. They wworked hard on
their presentations and also mange to see some of Puerto Morelos - infact they saw
the sea for the first time and went snorkeling, visited Playa del Carmen and swam in
Tres Bocas. Theory classes were given on Rescue, CPR, First Aid and Hazardous
Goods. 2 more manuals were donated along with 2 way radios, fire fighting gloves,
items for the clinic and various fire and rescue books and we also purchased 2
dummies for CPR training and supplied sandwiches for snacks (thanks to Sandy) . We
look to the future for further development of our relationship with Saltillo and Austin,
working together we plan to purchase a new pumper for PM and support another
training school in November.
El Mundo also bought 50 sport shirts for the runners to wear in the Firemen's
Marathon
WHAT CAN I IMPORT TO MEXICO?
Pork meat: fresh, frozen, canned, sausage, dry, cooked or processed as long as the
package indicates the origin ( maximum 15 kg per person).Poultry meat fresh or
frozen, only from US States that are not quarantined as long as the stamp on the
package specifies the state of origin ( maximum 3 turkeys or chicken per family)
Paté spread canned sterile poultry, as long as the stamp specifies origin, 3 pieces per
person
Pasteurized liquid or powder milk, condensed , cheese fresh or aged, butter or cream
as long as the packing stamp indicates origin 3 pieces per person. Processed
products of potato vegetables, leaf vegetables, fruit, malt corcuma and toasted
coffee. Flour or semola corn, wheat, oats, whole wheat, soy and rice. Nuts, dehydrated
paper products (with the exeption of nogal if it comes from Texas, cajun nuts, other
peeled nuts with weird names pistachios, salty toasted prunes, dried herbs and
specialties.
All meat products must present in its package the inspection stamp form the USDA
department of agriculture when they are from the USA and CFIA when they are from
Canada. European and Latinamerican products are not allowed.
But use common sense and call to keep your self informed 551 91831000 x 34087/34800


Que Paso? August 1st
As of Friday afternoon we are watching a slight veering to the North,  
anything could happen in the meantime however and it is best to be  
prepared

SATURDAY 6PM HURRICANE MEETING
General Town meeting at the Taxistas building in the Colonia. The  
Hurricane Committee will be there along with all the Municipality  
services representatives to inform everybody of the plan for the  
HurricanE assistance and services. Be there to be informed.

SATURDAY AFTERNOON AND EVENING AT TUNA
Before the storm party, beers 2 for 1, lots of music MANIFIESTO +  
MARINO + MOYENEI. So get ready for the storm and then   
celebrate...jajaja.

LOCAL NEIGHBOURS MEETING SUNDAY 10AM
Anyone living near me is welcome to a neighbourhood get together my  
place on Sunday morning. We have a few 2 way so that we can  
communicate with each other, we will also try be connected to  
emergency services. Bring your own water!!!

HURRICANE ASSISTANCE NEEDED IN THE COLONIA
One of the promises El Mundo para Puerto Morelos made was to help in  
times of disaster, the mayor has asked for our help with the refuges  
in the Colonia. They need water, canned foods and mattresses. As you  
recall during Wilma there was extensive flooding in the colonia and  
many people homeless and we had very little water surge - we do not  
know this time.

Our cash funds are a little low here so if you can help out or get  
your friends here to help out it will be appreciated. We are hunting  
the Electropura truck today and I'll buy 10 garrafons of water but if  
you have any cash or canned goods you can throw this way it would be  
timely. I'll go and buy mattresses tomorrow. I will need physical and  
car help on Saturday to take all to the Colonia.

FIRE IN EL CID WORKERS HABITATIONS  (pic below)
Well the hurricane would have done for them anyway but today the El  
Cid worker's housing went up in flames. Hundreds of hammock spots  
were burnt to the ground. No-one hurt and all the workers have been  
sent home to their villages. I wonder if they get paid leave? ( I  
crack myself up sometimes!)

DEAN WATCH  http://www.nhc.noaa.gov

best


Cat...Happy Birthday to me!

Catriona Brown
Administrator
El Mundo para Puerto Morelos SC
www.catinmexico.blogspot.com

Que Paso? August 1st

Back on line again! Cablemas has been down for 10 days and it has been a circus
getting answers from them, they are apparently rewiring the town in preparation for
provision of phone services. Oh goody, three things for Cablemas to manage.



I bring you no news this week on the development controversy or the Ceiba road - my
roving reporters are still roving apparently. No news has two probabilities in my mind,
they just don't have their act together yet OR they have gone underground because
everyone made so much noise.

Thanks to all those wonderful people who took the time to write such eloquent and
passionate letters in favour of retaining the integrity of PM, the copies are being
stored in case printed versions are required at a later date.
"You folks have the power to hold onto one of your state's most serene, peaceful
locations. There are some things in life that money cannot replace -- Puerto Morelos is
one of them. Leave your big business and mass tourism in the big cities. Once you
give up Puerto Morelos to those things, you will never get it back. That small section
of Carribean frontage and Nationally protected reef are invaluable. Please do not
allow it to be ruined."

THE DOG MONITOR
Thinking of starting a separate newsletter for dogs, you have no idea how fast I
receive news about dog issues compared to high rise development status.

Firstly, MONDAY AUGUST 6TH 6.30PM Amar Inn - meeting about doggy business - your
rights, their rights and abuse thereof. Stand up for your furry friends, know your
rights, find out the truth.

Two Sundays ago we had a rather ugly incident on the beach - 2 women and a man,
guests at Amar Inn, were told to put their dog on a leash which they apparently did
then the Cancun police told them they could not have a dog on the beach at all, an
argument ensued, the man had a night stick put to his throat, the woman received a
cut to her forehead and the three of them were taken to Cancun, in bikinis and
bathing suit, for charging. Que Paso has been told that the Police are receiving free
breakfasts at Ojo de Agua. Letters have been written to our mayor and to Cancun.
Diane has started a Dog Register : who is walked on the street, walked on the beach,
who has what dog, who carries a baggy, if you want to make sure you are correctly
listed please drop in at the Bakery.

FREE SPAY AND NEUTER CLINIC 13 AND 14 AUGUST - Volunteers needed!
Times and venue TBA. The volunteers from VIDAS, Colorado, are coming back. To help
them out the town is asked to help with volunteers - can you spare a few hours to help
in the very positive action that helps us all? Can you bring some cool drinks? Can you
help with intake? Can you lend us your animal crates? Please drop in at the Bakery
and let Diane know, just a few hours will be a big help.

POLICE ISSUES
In fact the Police haven't been having a good time this week, Anna from Tuna was
chasing a little gray car whose occupants had just smashed Goyo's car window to get
at a laptop. The first policeman said he was too busy writing a ticket and then she
came to a group of 7 who said they were too busy (admittedly they were attending to a
death by alcohol and heat) . Next day and unrelated on one of the signs on the way to
the highway was written "PELIGRO POLICIA ROBANDO" , that night the last two words
were cut out of the sign leaving poor Al with a sign on the other side that just says
Casa Azul and nothing else!,

BOMBERO'S WORKSHOP 8-10 AUGUST
El Mundo para Puerto Morelos has the pleasure of hosting Billy Webb, retired fire
instructor from Austin and Lt Enrique Medina instructor from Saltillo, Mexico, in a 3
day firemen's workshop. 4 Puerto Morelos firemen and 6 from Cancun will take classes
in fire control, firemen's safety, victim rescue and treatment, CPR and Hazardous
Material recognition. This will take place at my house in the afternoons, so if you see
lots of fire trucks you will know what that's about!

NEW BEACH BAR
Whisper is we will very soon have a new beach bar, have to leave you guessing on
that one.

EMERGENCY SUPPLIES DONATED
Hard to believe but during the fishing tournament someone stole the bag of
emergency equipment from the back of the Emergency Services truck. Last night El
Mundo para Puerto Morelos SC was happy to donate many items to go towards re-
equipping their vehicle. Thanks to Tony Sansone and other friends in Texas we were
able to help Leon and Jorge who have the unenviable job of being the first to attend
traffic and other accidents and emergencies.

CLIMATE CHANGE AND THE FUTURE OF RIVIERA MAYA
Sunday August 12, 7.30pm at Caracol Restaurant, Albert Bates, author of The Post
Petroleum Survival Guide and Cookbook, will be talking about alternative strategies
for buildings, businesses and towns to create a regenerative energy infrastructure in
this area as a model for the world.


WEEKEND AWAY - Hints for visitors, craft fair next weekend. We had the pleasure of a
weekend away visiting Izamal and Valladolid and little towns in between before
breaking down and getting towed home. Decided to take the cut through road to
Leona Vicario - don't do it! Although the Ruta de Cenotes is now paved all the way to
the Polo Club, then graded past Tres Bocas, once you go past the Aguakan road it is
like something out of a Jeep commercial, I swear there were fish living in those
potholes! We went winding past interesting small towns to get to Izamal, best known
for it's convent and yellow buildings. It also has a town initiative to promote
handicrafts original to the town, woodworking, weaving etc. I had the pleasure of
meeting Eduardo the Tinsmith who still uses his old tools and the hand method of tin
smithing. He had the pleasure of taking my money and is seen here at work preparing
a candle lantern. Spent the night in Valladolid which has many small hotels and we
were impressed with Quetzal (985 856 4796 www.casa-quetzal.com), Judith has a small
retreat in suburban Valladolid adjacent to the San Bernadino Convent, US60 for a
double room. The functioning convent is a delight , small, full of history, huge
underground cenote and gardens. We were lucky to happen on the first weekend of
the First Valladolid Annual Artesan's Fair, it is on next weekend too if you or your
guests can make it. Fruit and drinks at the food arcade and a visit to the municipal
offices before heading off to the wonderful Ek Balam just north of Valladolid. Truly the
most delightful of our ruins, it stands in a lovely garden landscape and boasts
wonderful relief sculptures. We visited the friend of Puerto Morelos, Lee, at her
gorgeous little eco-retreat in Ek Balam, Genesis. Lee has added rooms and her
garden is delightful, after a day driving and visiting the ruins and the nearby cenote it
is a welcome rest house. Although breaking down was inconvenient, we were helped
by everyone and were glad to get home safely to PM. If we'd gone on the toll road we
would have received help faster but the delights of the B road were well worth it.

Que Paso? July 20

Salutations to all! Puerto Morelos is sizzling with heat and buzzing with chat. You can
click on images to enlarge them.
PM DEVELOPMENT PLAN MEETING
Last night at the Syndicata de Taxistas we were presented with the IMPLAN plan, not
what we were expecting but certainly welcome information. IMPLAN worked with
various community members and lots of government departments and has come up
with the 'ideal' plan for Puerto Morelos. So this is the community recommended plan
that has been put to the government.

The vision: "Puerto Morelos is a mayoralty, accountable to itself and directly
borrowing public services. It has respect for and complies with the instruments of
planning and participates in the process. It has a defined identity, offers infrastructure
and equipment of high quality and low environmental impact, it is like an ideal town in
harmony with its natural attractions and with good cultural conservation."
Next Monday on the internet will be presented what the government is actually
considering, they encourage all of us to look at the the information presented and to
offer opinions please go to www.cancun.gob.mx and on the right hand panel you'll see
a link to the PM information, it is there right now but only headline points, apparently
Monday the whole plan will be there.
Actually it is a pretty interesting with good links there is even a map of downtown
Cancun, I have made a link to that in my links section.
Some of the strategies for the development
Improvement of the highway all the way to PdC including storm drainage (completed
Dec 07); joining Puerto and the Colonia with pedestrian walkways and bicycle paths
(new project, no allocation); green spaces cushioning traffic areas (no project, no
allocation)
Improvement of the three avenues with beach access and the 4 beach lanes including
footpath, bicycle path and lighting (topography work started and studies on the water,
lighting and drainage); construction of a mangrove walkway from El Cid to Moon
Palace (studies being done); creation of a traffic network in the Colonia of avenues
and roads around the main plaza (no allocation yet); defining use of the land and
zoning. This is very important as it is the issue which determines the density of use,
we are currently 50 people per hectare we understand the plan is to increase this to
100 but we have not yet seen this proposal.

Also included are proposals to assist in mangrove drainage, control of pesticides,
replanting, control of visual contamination, protection of water, schools, clinics,
tourism projects, employment projects, park conservation and maintaining it as a
'slow' city.

ABOUT THE CRUISE SHIP AND FERRY TERMINAL
President Alor in Cancun has not approved these projects! Presidente Fox has,
however, there is no money to proceed. We all need to keep watching as there are
some people who stand to make a great deal from their development.

PARENT AND CHILDREN COMMUNICATION WORKSHOP
This is a course to make communication with your children easy, accessible and fun.
Little changes have large results. The course is in Spanish and is on Saturday 28 July
10am-7pm, Hotel Hacienda Radisson, Av. Nader , 1000-1600 pesos.
Ter. Ms. PNL Berta Rios, Dr. Carlos Rubio Tel: 887-17-93 y 884-14-60 Cel: 9987 34 9282
betyrr@prodigy.net.mx docrubio@prodigy.net.mx

BEACH POLO IN PROGRESO 11 & 12 August 2-7pm, Playón de Progreso
Planning a trip to Merida? Why not drop over to Progreso and watch the exhibition
matches of polo on the beach? Equestrian show, beach party and entertainment by
Corona between 2 and 4pm and then beach party until 7pm (to left is me actually
hitting the ball! Lessons at El Rey. By the way, the horse is actually moving very fast
just a bad picture)

DANCE THEATRE PRESENTATION SATURDAY 21 JULY 8.30PM
Carmen Issler (seen before in Que Paso) and Shura present music, magic, floating in
space, world singing, intimate love...is it real? Long live dreams!
En la Cafebrería EL PABILO, Av. Yaxchilan#31, Hotel Xbalamque, Cancún, Q. Roo.
Supported by the Casa del Cultura de Puerto Morelos

SPECIAL SUNDAY AT THE HANDICRAFT MARKET
Sunday 21 July from 9 in the morning. bring your friends and family and enjoy delicious
regional foods and a convivial atmosphere. get to know the beautiful artwork and
support the Puerto Morelos culture. There will be music in Mayan, translated by
Rogelio Canche Canche.

Que Paso? July 13th

Teen workshop
This week El Mundo para Puerto Morelos teamed up with a Church group from
Cancun, Centro Cristiano Peniel Cancun. They had the initiative to set up a workshop
for children and teenagers for this first week of the school holidays. The children
have so much free time on their hands during the holiday the idea was to give them
an opportunity for creative activities with live music, clowns, puppets and finishing
with a small concert. El Mundo provided the venue at the Syndicate de Taxistas, cups,
drinks and sweets. We look forward to working with them again and providing cultural
activities for the community.

Doggie Business
Since the day of the white trucks we have been left in peace you will be pleased to
hear. After their little altercation with me apparently they met Theresa, a neighbour of
Diane's who gave them a piece of her mind, then Buffy and then a Mexican family who
drew a machete on them. So no doubt there is pause for thought. We have also been
told that under federal law your pet is considered 'bien meuble', part of the family and
no-one can take them from you unless they are a menace to society. So lets keep keep
our beach clean beach walkers, and also those of you who walk their dog on the
street. We will stay under the radar if we keep our streets and beach clean. Thanks.

Cruise ship pier
There remains a lot of interest in the proposed cruise ship pier and what is needed is
an active group to discover facts and bring them to all together with a plan of action. It
is your town, you can save it but you need to put time and energy into it. Please talk to
each other, the town needs your help on this one.

Riding lessons at the Polo Country Club
Here are a couple of pictures from horse riding lessons this week, the riding master
and stables. It really is a lovely place to go for lessons. If you are interested please
call Edouardo 998 8741385, an excellent teacher for beginners to advanced.


Que Paso? July 5

Welcome to the Puerto Morelos Newsletter.

We have had somewhat of a week of festivals and surprises. Weather continues thick
and hot with rumbling clouds in late afternoon. Beach is full of holiday makers and the
children are out of school. (If you click on an image you get a full page version.)

Presidents' Visit
Who's coming? Everyone wanted to know which bigwig was coming to town on
Tuesday. Early morning there were truckloads of workers sweeping streets, painting
curbs, trimming shrubs, spotters talking to building sites about clearing their rubbish
and believe or not road workers! Three truck loads of them filled the holes in Rojo
Gomez, (Jack and Jean they made it to Villa Shanti, just missing right in front of Raija's
house) and then ran out of materials just when they got to the cenote in front of Casa
Lalita. President Alor from Cancun (head of Benito Juarez) was paying the town a visit,
he'd been hearing of some unhappy campers here and wanted to make sure all his
election promises were being carried out. These promises include road and park
maintenance, street cleaning,ade it all the way to Villa Shanti, for some reason air
conditioning and maintenance and computers in schools and the library, a senior
citizens residence in the colonia, 2 more doctors for the weekend shift in the public
clinic and then 2 more to increase the hours to 24 hours. Apparently El Cid had
promised to put in a separate bicycle track on the entrance road at the same time as
laying more cable for expanded electricity capability. President Alor will return in 30
days to make sure this work is being carried out.

Graduation
All the schools have their graduation ceremonies this week and I have the honour of
being invited. It was a delight to see how happy the students were, how proud the
parents and I was tickled pink for them as well. There were speeches, diplomas and
dancing, very happy occasions. Photos are from the Technical High School on the
beach and the kindergarten, Cinco de Mayo, in the Colonia.

Casa de Cultura
wants you to know about a great dance teacher Carmen Issler, who is teaching in
Playa del Carmen , fusion African and Modern dance, classes are 100 pesos. Apart
from being a wonderful form of expression, dance is also great for your breathing,
flexibility and co-ordination. Carmen is a choreographer, dancer and teacher and has
worked and studied in Senegal, Mali, Guinea, Paris, New York and Jamaica. Her cell
number here is 984 1385835

Dr Feeling
Dr Carlos had a big week of free paediatric treatments last week with the visiting
guests Mrs.Tamra Tacree M.D (support by Ellija`s Church Atlanta Ga) and Dr. Tomasz
Haussleber,Pediatric Surgeon. We are all grateful for their work and the donation of
equipment and supplies. They treated 146 children paediatric examinations and
medication. Two children with cerebral palsy were sent for physiotherapist evaluation
and dental treatment. One child needed a paediatric gastroenterologist due to
intestinal bleeding. This child's treatment and others needing additional specialist
help were paid for by Dr Carlos association.

Fishing Co-op Prices
Great catches all week long for the fishermen and we are back in lobster , yum.season
Here's a little list of the prices at the fishing co-op so you know what you or your
guests are supposed to pay
Lobster tails 380p per kg, Boquinete (hogfish) 50p per kg
Mero (grouper) 60p per kg, Mojara 35p per kg
Coronado 45p per kg, Corel 35p per kg, Cabrilla 50p per kg

HORSE RIDING IN THE JUNGLE
The El Rey Polo and Country Club, (Ruta de Cenotes, Centro Vallarta) is opening its
doors to you for horse riding lessons. They will be having beginners classes as well
as advanced riding techniques and polo technique and tactics. You have your lesson
in the tranquil grounds of El Rey and the surrounding country side with Eduardo, an
accomplished polo player and teacher. Prices are reasonable 4 lessons for 1600
pesos over one month or 8 lessons a month for 2800 pesos. Please call Eduardo 998
8741385 to make a time.

WHALE SHARKS ARE BACK
The wonderful whale sharks are back and happy in the waters off Isla Holbox. Our
friends at the restaurant Caracol are helping people get to see theses great wonders
please contact them if you want help in getting to the location and booking a trip - 998
871 0232 or info@coracol-hotel.com

CARACOL ICE CREAM
They claim to have the best in town - all made with natural fruits in a variety of flavors.
Avellana de cacao, capuccino, coco, chocolate, piña, mango, elote, mamey,
guanabana, tamarindo, nuez, fresa, cajeta, vanilla, napolitano, durazno, limon, oreo,
etc.
Date line Puerto Morelos, Thursday, June 28th, 2007
At the Races - Last Sunday 3pm
There are races held irregularly and we managed to hear about the day at Rancho San
Jose de Los Camotes and what a lot of fun that was! Anyone who tried to follow my
directions from last week - I am really sorry about that! We will report when we hear of
more race dates. The race track is 3 lanes marked off to 200 or 300 barras (a Spanish
word used only in horse racing) and there were 10 races of 2 horses each. Everyone
backs their trucks up to the track and the men wander around on the track between
races up to the last minute like the running of the bulls! Lots of money changes hands -
someone will walk up to you and want to bet 500p on one horse so you take the money
and keep it if you win or he will come and find you and take 1000p if you lose. While the
bets are being taken they walk the horses around in the crowd and then take them down
to the start gate. You are so close when they go past that you are hit by the wind and the
flying dirt from hooves. There were barbecue goat sandwiches which were delicious with
ice cold beer although the fellow reaching his arms into the meat to serve you was a little
scary! It was 50 pesos entrance and hours of plain fun.

Ceiba del Mar's Mangrove Road
Ceiba del Mar has started work on extending the road from their car park along the back
of the houses to their north but only plan to take it half way and turn right to the beach
alongside where Dinah Drago and the Schaeffers are. There is permission to take the rear
road all the way through to the Aquaculture centre but I suppose money is talking. There
are definite concerns about this as the road will effectively be like building a dyke on that
corner, which raises the water on the mangroves threatening them the same as the issue
at El Cid, it may also make it difficult for residents to exit in case of flood. Various
government departments have been inspecting and there was a direction to remove an
relocate the chit palms in the vicinity - six men were there yesterday with no supervisor,
no water, no shade from the sun and no way to remove store and relocate the palms. If
you want to know more about this please call the manager of Ceiba, Juan, and ask him to
please explain!

Secret meeting about Cruise Ships for PM
Last night there was a meeting at Ojo de Agua (quelle surprise) to which very few people
were invited or notified. There is a serious proposal to build a cruise ship terminal at
Punta Brava (south side of South Beach) and introduce the wonders of cruise ships to
PM. They are telling everyone how glorious this will be for the town - you all know that
this will change PM into just another commercial junk stop and bring nothing but
problems to the town. The citizens once again expressed their dislike of the proposal
there were some supporters but still mostly against. Apparently the Director of IMPLAN is
involved (did you know he is a realtor and sold the last big beach property here?)Please
take action to stop this - write or call or email- here are some names and addresses:

Desarallo Urbano - Ing. E.V. Heyden Cebada Ramirez, Director General de Desarollo
Urbano, Palacio Municipal P.B., Av Tulum #5 SM5, www.cancun.gob.mx or
desarollourbano@cancun.gob.mx. To the same address - Arq. Santhy Montemayor C.,
Director de Zonification e Imagen Urbana and Arq. Enna Rosa Dzib Heredia, Directora de
Normatividad de Obras Arquitectonicas y Civiles and Ing. Andres Nieto Foullon, Director
Obras Publicas

Paradisus Meeting about tall buildings and the Plan!
And today at Paradisus a meeting about getting permission to build 8 story buildings at
Paradisus and south of El Cid, will it ever end? The same group of people involved in the
cruise ship lobby are involved in the proposal to increase the height restrictions in Puerto
Morelos. The Director of IMPLAN, Sr. Hassau, who sold the beach block next to Amar Inn,
has been talking about building a beautiful new entrance to PM and fixing our streets as
well as supporting the increased building height! Imagine an 8 story building over that
block.

Going to Merida?
Check out YucatanLiving.com, see the link on my right. It just makes you weep to see how
much is going on in that town. Great for your visiting guests. It is a really well designed
site and features an interview with yours truly!

Dog Day and Ojo de Agua
Today on the beach were 2 trucks from the Dept of Sanitation. I was alone on the beach
between Tuna and Ceiba and they roared up to me and said they were going to take Alex -
I said no it was legal to have a dog on the leash on the beach - see the sign! They said no
no dogs at all and the head man ordered men out of the back of the truck to take my dog -
we ran! Apparently there is a new federal law banning dogs from the beach - we will fight
this. I went to talk to Felix at Ojo de Agua well known to support this and he said that it
was to stop people from Cancun bringing their dogs and to keep the tourists happy. So
lets see in one week we have this hotel stopping locals from walking their dogs and
supporting cruise ships in PM - do you still want to support that place?

Oysters
I know this is a picture of an empty plate but boy they were good. Oysters bought at
Soriana this week were fantabulous. Shuck them yourself if you can, they were really
fresh and had that ocean taste, squeeze of lime, heaven.


Masah
Fernanda in Calle Galéon 15b in Villas Morelos is offering 2 for 1 facials, 2 full facials for
300 pesos June and July only . Fernanda used to work in the hotel zone and now works
from home so she can be with her little girl 998 1891466

Bacabs
Dinner at Bacabs recently where they have revamped Gustavo's grill area and served an
excellent Filet Mignon, such a pretty view too.

Vieja Pescador
In their new location between Pelicano's and Baraka, Vieja Pescador still has some of our
favourite staff and a beautiful spot on the beach. The menu has not changed and I had
some fish fillets that were fine, Bioné was cooking so they were not overdone. Valerie
really enjoyed her Chile Rellenos.

Portabellos
has closed and the business is up for sale - anyone feel like being enterprising for the
high season?



Date line Puerto Morelos, Thursday, June 22nd, 2007
Hello again everyone,

All well here, a little warmish but clear days and the nights are  
gorgeous. If you have trouble looking at the photos on this email  
they are easy to see on the website http://
www.catinmexico.blogspot.com, in fact it's all easier to read there!

DAY OF THE FREE BOOKS
A wonderful thing this week was delivering books to the schools.  
Valerie and John Ware from Iowa arrived with close to 500 books for  
the children of Puerto Morelos. Valerie raised funds from friends and  
residents of Playa Sol and went on the net searching for Spanish and  
bilingual bargains, she breezed through with a green light at customs  
and Monday and Tuesday saw the volunteers from El Mundo para Puerto  
Morelos delivering books to three kindergartens where every child  
chose a book of their own and the 2 primary schools where 1st and 2nd  
year all received books. Valerie was a bit sad when it was all over  
she was looking forward to the next school. It was a delight to see  
their faces and be a part of the schools programme to encourage  
children to read. We will definitely be doing this again, so bring  
books too.

HAPPINESS
Weddings are wonderful too and when it is close friends it is indeed  
a very moving event. Gary and Carol were married in an elegant  
ceremony on Saturday at the El Dorado Hotel. We luxuriated in the  
cocktails in the Presidential Suite and then the undecided weather  
cleared at the last moment and created a perfect afternoon. All went  
well and the night was full of laughter and a few happy tears.  
Congratulations to you both!

WINE SPA
No not a new bar but wine therapy, now what a good idea. Fernanda is  
offering a treatment using grapes that exfoliates, reduces wrinkles,  
firms and nourishes the skin. It is a whole body treatment and takes  
1.5 hours.  The normal cost is 600 pesos but the special for June is  
350 pesos. For an appointment call 998 1891466 (Villas Morelos Calle  
Galéon 15b)

POLITICS
Casa Azul was host to a gathering of citizens active in the community  
to meet the PRI candidate Victor Viveros, taxi driver,  who has been  
active in PM for 10 years, Tuesday 8pm.  He was not there (I left  
9.45) and Laura Fernandez answered questions from the floor. There  
was a lot of bitterness towards Cancun expressed. Where does all the  
money that we send to Cancun from our hotels go? What about our   
roads, medical clinics, schools, emergency services. Where have we  
heard this before. I think we should secede! Then we'd have to decide  
if we wanted to take Mayan Palace with us or not, mmm tough one.


NEW CLINIC
Dra Eugenia Arenas Zapata has opened a clinic in Villas Morelos  to  
look after your emotional health! The good doctor is also the  
representative for DIF in Puerto Morelos and happens to be married to  
the Mayor. She offers various therapies for stress, sleeplessness,  
depression and so forth and uses homeopathy as well as medical  
surgery. So if you would like a consultation call 2089020
(Calle Catamaran y38 L14b)

HORSE RACE
Feel like something different? There is a horse race on Sunday at  
3pm. It's on the west side of the highway between here and Petempich,  
you enter where there is a big sign that says Delta. 50 pesos. Your  
intrepid reporter will report back.

EDUARDO'S SPECIAL SUNDAY
One block north from the Extra at the corner of Villas Morelos,  
Eduardo is serving up special Sunday food between 0800 and 1200.  
Barbecued meat with special frijoles. Let's support his new  
endeavour, get out of bed.

BEAUTY TIP
Well I don't know about you but the mayonnaise hair treatment worked  
really well. Here is another locally available and economical idea:
The best facial mask is honey. Place a cloth in warm water and apply  
to your face to open the pores. Smear on honey, and leave on for 15  
to 30 minutes. Rinse off with warm water, then use cold water to  
close the pores. Use once a week.

DID YOU KNOW? 3rd in the seed series
Doe eye, horse eye, true sea bean, burning bean and hamburger bean  
this pretty little favourite is a delight when found on our beaches,  
it feels so friendly when held in your palm. It comes from a  
voracious woody vine that engulfs shrubs and trees in South and  
Central America and the West Indies. It has a wonderful defense  
against foraging monkeys, insects and parrots. Firstly its pod hangs  
on a long stem and is hard to reach; secondly the pod is covered in  
stinging hairs that are so potent that they cause" an almost  
unbearable itching and burning of the skin and can cause blindness if  
they get in the eyes" and thirdly if the predator gets past this and  
to the skin they will find it very distasteful and containing a drug  
know as ''L-dopa" which can cause hallucinations,