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Tiempo de Cozumel

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news       July 09

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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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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!

 

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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.

news       July 09

 

C O Z U M E L   T O D A Y 

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