|
Happy
Fourth of July!
This
year is moving right along at an unbelievable rate. We are still in
Florida
now tentatively planning a trip back sometime in the later part of August.
We are still adjusting to the drastic change of pace here, so very
different from our time on the
Island
.
Remarkably,
where we are in
Palm
Coast
has turned out to be more of a tropical “jungle” than in
Cozumel
! There are almost daily Alligator and crocodile sightings. The latest, a
“phenomenon” took place this past week. A crocodile was spotted
swimming in the
Atlantic Ocean
at one of the beaches. The following day, he was found swimming on another
beach
15 miles
south. On day 3, the same crocodile was still in the ocean, this time with
an alligator as a companion! This phenomenon, apparently they do not mix
company.
We
have learned
Florida
is the capitol of the world in lightning strikes (so much for my love of
walking in the rain. A couple of weeks ago in Orlando, a pregnant lady got
hit by lightning while in a cab.
By
far, the most bizarre event (even took the place of a hawk sweeping down
feet from me and snatching a smaller bird) is the frogs. We had a record
breaking 7 days of rain that made the history books causing flooding
everywhere around us. Our nearest neighbor's garage and driveway was under
water. Sharon and I went out on the deck one evening a there was a
deafening sound of what I thought might be hundreds of ducks or geese
coming from across the street. We discovered from speaking to the
neighbors it was frogs. The following evening when we went out again the
loud sounds where coming from all around us. It was frightening,
reminiscent of horror movies where creatures took over the world! We
promptly went back inside!
The
following morning we noticed the water in the neighboring yards that had
not yet receded was black in color. When we approached, we discovered the
“black” was millions of tadpoles. I was sipping coffee a week later
watching the sun rise. I became aware that our street, unpaved and sand,
was a different color. I went down to investigate. The entire street was
filled with millions of baby frogs making their way inland. This again is
a phenomenon that only happens in
Florida
and one other place in the world. You can read about these little fellows
at:
http://www.wildflorida.com/wildlife/frogs/Eastern_Spadefoot_Toad.php
http://weblogs.sunsentinel.com/news/specials/weirdflorida/blog/2008/09/
invasion_of_toads_keeps_homeow_1.html
There
is little said of the Swine Flu epidemic. The only thing I heard in the
news this month is a lady died from it in another part of
Florida
last week.
I
want to once again thank everyone who contributed to this month's issue.
Have a wonderful month, and keep helping our beautiful
Island
survive this crisis!
Cozumel
Chrysalis Group
The
Children's' Hope
By
Sue Sievert
The
year was 1971. The Vietnam War was in full swing and John Lennon's Imagine
topped the charts. Quarterback Johnny Unitas led the Baltimore Colts to
victory in Super Bowl V and the Pittsburg Pirates earned baseball's
highest award.
It
was also the year that Hazel Mrock made her “Great Escape” from the
cold and punishing
Motor
City
to beautiful
Cozumel
- a young divorcee filled with excitement at the prospect of sharing some
beach time with soldiers who had long ago fought a bitter war. It was a
new life and a brave, new beginning.
It
would not be too many years before Hazel would begin a chain of events
that would pave the way for a better start for a whole new generation. Nor
would it take much time for her to realize the sacrifices it would
require.
Hazel
Mrock is a one-of-a-kind individual and once you meet her, you are quickly
captivated by her passion, zest for life, and (oh yes), her opinions.
Sometimes you don't know whether to kiss her or choke her, but all you can
do is love her…if you can catch up with her!
Enjoy!
Hazel
Tiempo
de Cozumel (TDC):
You
came to Cozumel the first time after exploring
Merida
's ruins. What was your draw to the
Island
?
Hazel:
In 1971, I read an article about
Cozumel
in a men's magazine and I realized then that I wanted to take the time to
visit. After first touring the ruins near
Merida
, I took a flight to
Cozumel
. I was drawn to the descriptions of pristine beaches and of course, all
the WWII vets who were sleeping on them! I fell in love with
Cozumel
the first time I set eyes on it. I knew I had to leave
Detroit
as things were not going well there and that brought me here.
TDC:
Having
lived here for 38 years, what are some of the changes you have observed,
both good and bad?
Hazel:
The
biggest change for the better has been the home delivery of propane gas.
Years ago, there was an empty lot across from
Santander
in
El Centro
. The Panaderia is now located there. Locals were required to bring two
empty propane gas tanks where they were loaded onto trucks, taken to the
dock, boated over to the mainland, and delivered to
Merida
. They were then filled up and brought back to
Cozumel
for the locals to pick up and take home. It was exhausting.
I
miss the intimate, family-type atmosphere that existed when we were still
a young
Island
. Progress and population growth has changed a lot of that. Unfortunately.
TDC:
The
Cozumel Chrysalis Group is a ministry very close to your heart. In fact
you have been called its “mother.” The assistance you and a dedicated
group of volunteers have provided all these years has made a difference in
thousands of students' lives. We understand that children who were given
Chrysalis scholarships in the early days are now grown and have kids of
their own. Tell us about Chrysalis' beginnings.
Hazel
In
the early '90s, I felt a tug to do something to help needy young people
with their schooling.
Mexico
requires the parents of public-schooled students to provide their
children's' uniforms, shoes, and school supplies. Those in Prep School
have to pay an additional 2000 pesos for Inscription. That is not always
financially possible for some students and they need help.
Realizing
this, I met with the principal of a local school and he helped me to
identify 10 young people who might not be able to attend due to financial
hardship. Once things were set up with them, I walked into my first local
business and blurted out, “I want money.” Much to my surprise and
relief, the store owner replied, “How much?”
Cozumel
Chrysalis Group was born that day. My good friend, Alicia Platz,
enthusiastically shared the vision. We both wanted to give something back
to the Cozumeleños who had so willingly received and accepted us. Over
the years, I continue to be amazed at the generosity of this island's
people. Even when times are hard, they still dig deep into their pockets,
giving until it hurts.
Throughout
the history of Chrysalis, there have been a number of supporters and
volunteers. This has never been a crusade by one or two. Volunteers from
all walks of life, both Mexican and foreign, along with local donors and
the generous help of island visitors have all contributed to make
Chrysalis what it is today.
People
ask me what Chrysalis means. It is the pupae stage of the cocoon.
The covering of the cocoon is delicate and silky and its purpose is
to shield the butterfly growing inside, shielding it at an important
stage.
TDC:
How
do you determine who receives the organization's help?
Hazel:
Recipients
who have applied are selected by a committee, based on need.
The
number of students we can help is directly tied to our donations. It costs
$120 (usd) a year for a 1-6 grade student and $200(usd) for students in
grades 7-12. The cost for students involved in Preparatory jumps to
$300(usd). Once a student is
approved, they are invited to participate in the program until they
complete their education with good grades. We help around 225 students a
year and have hundreds more we could help.
TDC:
How
can locals help Cozumel Chrysalis Group?
Hazel:
We
welcome anyone's assistance but it helps if you speak Spanish, have your
own transportation and are devoted to children and education. If anyone
wishes to donate funds or gently used goods to our non-profit
organization, these are greatly appreciated.
TDC:
As
an active octogenarian who has been around the block a time or two, you
are an inspiration to us all. Any
surprises in store for the future?
Hazel:
Yes,
and one of them is still in the dream phase. I would love to see an
after-school center with state-of-the-art learning resources for children
who need a secure place to go to do their homework and continue their
studies.
TDC:
What
would you say is your biggest joy in life?
Hazel:
When
I see children smile!
=====================
Sue
& Will
(If
you wish to donate time, money or household clothing to Chrysalis Group,
e-mail cozkids@hotmail.com. Donations are tax-deductible in
Mexico
.)
(Sue
Sievert and her musician husband, Will, are permanent residents of
Cozumel
. Sue was previously publisher and editor of “Women of Greater
Atlanta”, a monthly business publication).
Distemper
outbreak on the
Island
By
Carol McCutcheon
You
may have already heard this, but there is a big outbreak of distemper on
the island. Many, many dogs are dying of it.
Many
people do not vaccinate their dogs, so it has spread throughout the island
quickly and now appearing in the stray population. Vaccinate your dog and
keep them current. Be cautious around other dogs; don't let them sniff
each other. Also don't let them sniff and have contact with animal urine
and feces, you know how curious dogs get about these things when you take
them for a walk.
Symptoms
range from coughing, to eye and nasal discharge, lethargy, vomiting and
diarrhea initially and often fever in early stages of infection, sometimes
it skips all these things and goes direct to nervous system type symptoms
i.e. back legs and stomach area twitching, to whole body twitching and gum
chewing type signs. So, sometimes it is difficult to diagnose as the
symptoms are so varied. The mortality rate is extremely high. Many, many
dogs have died over the last couple of months.
Costa Brava
Restaurant Review
By
Joyce & Ken Larsen
Costa
Brava Restaurant is located on Calle 7 Sur #57 between Rafael E. Melgar
and 5 Avenue Sur with free parking across the street in the Punta Lagosta
parking lot.
Costa Brava
is open from 6:30 AM to 11:00 PM.
The
“Early Bird” breakfast deals, served from 6:30 AM until 9:30 AM, are
hard to beat. They start at
$30.00 pesos ($3.00 US) and for that you get 2 eggs served your choice of
Rancheros, a
la Mexicana
or Revueltos and include coffee, orange juice, bread, butter, jelly,
refried beans, a small fresh salad and the service is fast.
They feature additional breakfast deals for only a little more.
Divers got an early
boat? Go take advantage of
these great deals.
In
addition to breakfast they also serve lunch and dinner offering a large
selection of both Mexican and American dishes and most are spiced to
American tastes, with salsa on the side and are reasonably priced.
For example, 3 Chicken Tacos for $50.00 pesos ($5.00 US) Shrimp
with butter $150.00 pesos ($15.00 US) Grilled Fish Fillet $90.00 pesos
($9.00 US). Menus are in both
Spanish and English. The food
is good; the service is fast and friendly and the staff speaks good
English. We rate
Costa Brava
a must try restaurant. Prices
are always subject to change without notice.
Check
this paper for a coupon offering a discount (except on the “Early
Bird” breakfast specials) on these great meals.
Do
you have a favorite restaurant? Then
write about it let everyone know!
An
Invitation to Canalla's
By
Will and Sue Campbell
Our
new band, Blues Parrot, is playing, why not have a get-together for an
hour before Friday games? Will
plays a harmonica, drums and percussion and I sit in sometimes on
percussion and sing a song or two. We would really love to see a great
crowd if possible and then everyone could gather later at someone's house.
La Canalla's
is located directly across from the Ferry and upstairs next to Fat
Tuesday's.
La Canalla's
offers a 2x1 for locals. It's a beautiful restaurant with a view of the
sunset. Hope to see you there. We had 50+ Americans present at our
kick-off this past Friday and they really loved the music. I've attached
pix of some of the locals who were there.
You
all are the best!
News
from the
US
Consular Agent
By
Anne Harris
I
am sorry that I have not been able to send out any "News from the US
Consular Agent" emails for such a long time.
The
fact is that my internet server has been such a problem sending out bulk
emails that I will no longer be able to send out news by group email.
Instead, from now on I will
post
any news that I have for you at: http://www.cozumel.net/News-From-Cozumel/
Music
and Art at
Benito
Juarez
Plaza
In
an attempt attract people to the center of town. They will be having Music
concerts every week on Tuesday and Thursday nights from 7:30 to 10:30.
-------------
Salsa
Lessons at Playa Azul
Club
Playa Azul provides Salsa lessons every Sunday afternoon from noon to two.
Lessons are for beginners and advanced dancers. There is live music
immediately after the lessons so everyone can practice what they have
learned.
Classes
are ten dollars per session. Playa Azul provides a 10% discount on food
and beverages. Dress is come
as you are. It is a beautiful atmosphere and lots of fun!
--------------
La Casa
de Marlin Fishing
Charters
Deep
Sea
Fishing
31'
Bertram Sport Fisherman
40'
Viking Convertible
10%
discount if you mention this column in Tiempo de Cozumel!
Call
for reservations today at
987-872-4573
or
email fishingbandidacozumel@prodigy.net.mx
Costa
Brava Restaurant
Enjoy
an excellent meal at my favorite family restaurant and get 15% off!
Offer
good for everything but the breakfast specials that are already at bargain
prices.
Calle
7 Sur #57 between Melgar & 5a South
The
CARIBBEAN
BOL
Go
bowling at Cozumel's only bowling lanes that provide another alternative
for those unable to enjoy the
Island
's water sports as well as provide in-door fun on those rainy days. They
offer free bowling lessons and dollar specials on Sundays. For more
information contact Stacey at 878-4321 or at staceydianne@yahoo.com.
English
Language
Church
Services
Eben-Ezer
Presbyterian Church
30th Ave.
At
10th Street North
Sundays
at
9 a
.m.
Jesus
Es
Rey
Church
65th Ave.
&
Morelos Street
Sundays
at 10:00 a.m.
Iglesia
de San Miguel
Guadalupe
Rosary Prayer
10th Street
Corner of
El Centro
Plaza
Sundays
at 5 p.m.
CO-DEPENDENTS
ANONYMOUS MEETING IN ENGLISH
Co-Dependents
Anonymous (CoDA) is a Twelve Step Fellowship of men and women whose common
purpose is recovery from codependence and the development and maintenance
of healthy relationships.
The
CoDA meeting in the area meets:
On
Saturday, at 11:00 am. In the English AA ROOM, Ave 10 Sur corner of Calle
5 Sur, up the spiral iron staircase, first apartment.
For
further information contact: DeLea at 869-0369
CoDA
is a non-profit organization supported by the voluntary contributions of
attending members.
Work
Wanted
Gardener
Everyone's
favorite for all your gardening needs!
He is reliable and very reasonable.
Orlando
987-105-3000
Tile
Work Interior and Exterior
Need
a reliable man for tile work? Interior work or exterior work, such as
swimming pools. If interested, call Sheila, 872-6220 since Ramiro has no
phone.
Dentista
C.D.
Nora Hernández Lavie'
MEDIDENTAL
Odontología
Integral
11
Sur por 65 Ave.
Cozumel,
Q.Roo
Tel/Fax
872-0808
Cell
(987) 103-2770
E-mail:
noral2004@yahoo.com
Official
Translator
Monica
Sauza Garrido
75
Ave. Sur #613
between
Hidalgo
and 7th
telephone:
987-872-5394
email:
mosag@prodigy.net.mx
Cozumel
Health Chiropractic
Cozumel
Health offers a variety of Massage and Treatments to help you enjoy your
vacation.
Chiropractic
care is available Monday through Saturday.
872-1122, Dr. Tom:
Tues,
Thurs, Sat 9:30am 1pm
Martes,
jueves, sábado 9:30am - 1pm
Tues
& Thurs 6pm- 8pm
Martes
y jueves 6 P.M. 8pm
Also
available by appointment
También
disponible por la cita
Plaza
Barracuda # 5 on Melgar (across from Mega) Entre 7 y 11 Sur
MARY
KAY SKINCARE PRODUCTS
Priced
in pesos and delivered to your doorstep Call Sue at 987-107-9997 or e-mail
suecampbell4448@yahoo.com
Quality
Educational Software
Quality
educational software for every age group and level shipped from the
United States
directly to your loved ones! Check it out at www.bestchildlearn.com
AXA
Health Insurance
Contact
Irma Cantarell at 987-872-6647 or office on 11th with 30th, next to the
Ford co. Insurance for as little as $50. - Usd per month.
Bancomer
English Division
Contact
Mauricio Sanchez at mauricio.sanchez@bbva.bancomer.com or call toll-free
01800-2282-728. Website:
www.bancomer.com/pcu.
Contact
Information
At
atreasuryoftrade@msn.com for suggestions, comments, assistance, submit
editorials or for information on:
-
Book Club
-
Book Exchange
-
Game night
-
Garden Club
-
Ladies Breakfast Club
-
Applying for local discounts
-
Mexican Health Insurance
-
Recreational activities
For
your convenience, here is a list of emergency numbers that may come in
handy.
Contact
Information
At
atreasuryoftrade@msn.com for suggestions, comments, assistance, submit
editorials or for information on:
-
Book Club
-
Book Exchange
-
Game night
-
Garden Club
-
Ladies Breakfast Club
-
Applying for local discounts
-
Mexican Health Insurance
-
Recreational activities
For
your convenience, here is a list of emergency numbers that may come in
handy.
Emergency
060
24
Hour Doctor
872-0103
Dentist 872-0808
Hyperbaric
Chamber
872-0103
Police
872-0092
Red
Cross
872-1058
Taxi
Cab
872-0236
Taxi
Cab
872-0041
U.S.
Consulate 872-4574
U.S
Consulate
872-6152
U.S.
Consulate 044-987-876-0624
The
Federal Consumer Interest Bureau (PROFECO) is responsible for enforcing
the Consumer Protection Federal Law. Their office is located on the second
floor of the Municipal Market at Calle A. Rosado Salas between 25th and
20th Avenues.
You
may also file a complaint by e-mail to extranjeros@profeco.gob.mex and at
any Mexican embassy or consulate in the world.
For
more information on
Cozumel
, you can visit the Department of Tourism located on the corner of 20th
and Xel-Ha Avenues, Colonia Gonzalo Guerrero.
|