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Both issues of
The Isla Mujeres Magazine
to benefit Isla charities
are here,
featuring a variety of talented writers and photographers!
The Isla Mujeres Magazine
to benefit Isla charities
are here,
featuring a variety of talented writers and photographers!
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From Noticias de Diario de Quintana Roo ....
link to their Isla articles
Everything is ready for the New Year's Eve Party on the Town Square
Todo se encuentra listo
Para la “Gran Fiesta de Fin de Año”
Lanrry PARRA
ISLA MUJERES, 30 de diciembre.-
ISLA MUJERES, 30 de diciembre.-
The organizers say everything is ready for the New Year's Eve Party on the Town Square on Thursday, December 31 and Friday, January 1, when they are expecting about 4000 people, including foreign and domestic tourists and residents. There will be about 150 tables, each seating ten people, providing seating for 1500 people, with thousands of others enjoying the big year-end dance party, which has become a beautiful tradition, attracting visitors from all over the country and from abroad.
The municipal authorities, led by Mayor Agapito Magana Sanchez, have hired two bands to liven up the evening, who will presumably continue into the morning. In previous years, the New Year's party ended at 8am, with things remaining in place until noon. The organizing committee is working on the final preparations for another unforgettable celebration for locals and visitors from around the world, who are spending their vacations on this beautiful island.
The celebration will take place on Thursday Dec. 31, starting at 8pm in the Town Square, with music by Banda Ysrael, and by the band Yerbabuena. Mayor Agapito Magana Sanchez said this destination is privileged to receive the first rays of the sun in Mexico, and invited everyone to witness this unique spectacle over the Caribbean Sea, especially from the Tourist Center at Punta Sur.
He said that security and safety will be ensured by the Public Safety department (municipal police) and the municipal Civil Protection agency during the celebrations. At the celebrations, there will be good music, fun, and a colorful, lively ambiance to enjoy, as well as snacks.
National Dance Conference ends with a flurry of activities
Clausuran Congreso Nacional de Danza
Cerraron intensas actividades
Lanrry PARRA
ISLA MUJERES, 30 de diciembre.-
ISLA MUJERES, 30 de diciembre.-
Prior to the closing of National Dance Conference, participants had intense activities beginning at 4am on Wednesday at Punta Sur with a Festival of the First Rays of the Sun, and at 7am they staged a procession thru the Sculpture Garden of the Mexican Caribbean, at that location. There were closing activities at the Colegio Bachilleres and outside the Casa de Cultura.
Of all of the events during this 33rd National Congress of Mexican Folk Dance by the Choreographers Association of Mexico, the parade on Saturday afternoon was a favorite, which was held along Rueda Medina avenue on Saturday, to the delight of hundreds of tourists.
The Congress included 22 delegations from Mexico and one from the United States, and the exhibit of traditional costumes of Quintana Roo at the Casa de Cultura will continue for a month. During the (six) days of the conference, each of the dance delegations received recognition for their participation, from the Assistant Secretary of Culture of the state, Lilian Villanueva, and from the Mayor, Agapito Magana Sanchez.
The performances took place outside the Casa de Cultura, and included traditional dances of Quintana Roo, which were learned by the participants during the conference, which began on December 25.
Advances in urban development during Agapito's administration
Desarrollo urbano, vital
Avances en esta materia durante la administración de Agapito son evidentes
Lanrry parra
ISLA MUJERES, 30 de diciembre.-
ISLA MUJERES, 30 de diciembre.-
See translation below in the City section.....
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From the Municipal Facebook site..... ( FB page link)
An excellent afternoon on our beautiful island; enjoy the last Wednesday of the year.
Excelente tarde a todos en nuestra hermosa isla, disfrutemos del último miércoles del año.
Urban Development: Vital for Isla Mujeres
There has been evident progress in urban development in Isla Mujeres by the current administration in 2015. The City government, led by mayor Agapito Magana Sanchez, intends to ensure that the community has a good quality of life, security, economic growth, sustainability, and social services, as well as competing effectively in the tourism industry.
The Director of Urban Development and the Environment, Josue Villanueva Vargas, said that since the beginning of this administration, public works have been done that really benefit the residents of the three areas that make up the municipality of Isla Mujeres. (The island, the Continental Zone, and the Agricultural Zone).
He said lots in Rancho Viejo in the Continental Zone are being 'regularized' (deeded), which has been eagerly awaited by the residents for some time. He said in March they will deliver the documents for more than 6000 families, allowing various colonias (neighborhoods) to apply for federal funds for public works such as parks, sidewalks, recreational areas, etc.
This was a joint effort by the three levels of government, and included the agencies of Urban Development, Deeds (Catastro), the Ministry of Urban Development and State Housing, and at the federal level, CORETT. There are 16 colonias which will receive electrical services with resources from the Metropolitan Fund, working in conjunction with the Federal Electrical Commission (CFE), and two which are in the process at this time.
He said the inauguration of projects on Isla Blanca, including large hotels such as Secrets, Finest, and Excellence, attracts visitors with high levels of purchasing power.
Have you made your reservation for the big party? Greet the New Year in Isla Mujeres.
¿Ya reservaste para la mejor fiesta?
Recibe el año nuevo en Isla Mujeres
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Photos from Tuesday evening's dance performance (by Bruce)
Double rainbow yesterday morning.
From the roof of MaraVilla Caribe, by Bruce
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From Tvisla Mujeres ( link)
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From por esto Link to their Isla Mujeres articles
Federal judge rules that lots must be awarded
Que sí, tienen que darles los lotes .. [+] Ver mas
A federal district judge ruled that the municipality of Isla Mujeres and the Ministry of Urban Development of Quintana Roo must fulfill its obligations to the plaintiffs, granting legal protection to 101 residents who have waited for allocation of lots since 2005. Lawyers Manuel García García and Roberto Martinez Aragon provided a copy of the decision by judge Miguel Nahim Nicolas Jimenez, of the Fourth District Court of Quintana Roo, dated December 18, 2015, which says the two governmental agencies bodies must fulfill their obligations, generating letters of allocation and subsequent orders for occupation of the affected lots.
This ruling provides legal protection for more than 1700 people who were given documents promising them residential and commercial lots. Therefore, the lawyers are urging these people to bring their documents to them, to enforce this federal ruling.
Background
On April 8, 2008 (sic), approximately 1800 isleños paid 2400 pesos each and were given documents of lot assignment by Adame Torres ( Mayor 2002-2005), including a uso de suelo for each lot. (right of usage, similar to zoning). During the administration of Manuela Godoy (Mayor 2005-2008) an area of 200 hectares of land owned by the municipality on the mainland was donated, through an agreement with the now defunct INFOVIR agency (Institute for Housing Development and Property Regularization/Deeding), in exchange for these lots, to be urbanized with the introduction of public services necessary for communities via INFOVIR or in this case SEDUVI (State Ministry of Urban Development and Housing). It was published in a decree on August 19, 2013 in the Official Publication of the state government, that SEDUVI would assume the responsibilities of the defunct INFOVIR
This donation was formalized by public deed #4854 on November 15, 2007, which contains the Donation Contract between the municipality and INFOVIR (legal property descriptions are given). It is the responsibility of the municipality and SEDUVI to physically deliver the lots which have a letter of assignment and orders for occupancy from INFOVIR. In the municipality of Isla Mujeres, the current Director of Social Development is Cesar Edmundo Poot Perez, who retains or exchanges the documents of assignment and orders of occupation.
The lawyers said this ruling grants legal protection for their constituents, and now it is up to the City government and SEDUVI to comply with their obligation to physically deliver the parcels of land to each of the plaintiffs in accordance with the judgement. The lawyers asked the other 1700 people who have documents of assignment or occupation orders contact them so they can benefit from this legal protection, if they are eligible, and obtain their lots.
6000 deeds to be issued in 2016 for lots in 'irregular' colonias of Ciudad Mujeres
En enero entregarán escrituras de lotes a familias de colonias irregulares de Ciudad Mujeres. [+] Ver mas
Religious celebrations and personal promises for 2016 this evening
Al anochecer habrá celebraciones para que católicos y cristianos hagan su compromiso personal para el 2016.. [+] Ver mas
The Catholic churches will have four Masses in their respective four chapels between 7pm and just after 10pm, and the Christian 'brothers' will have services at similar times for New Year's Eve. At Our Lady of Immaculate Conception and Our Lady of Charity (Caridad del Cobre), there will be masses at 7pm by priest Raul Sanchez Alonso and an assistant. Ninety minutes later there will be another at the Guadalupe chapel, and at 9:30pm at the Sacred Heart church.
The priest recommends that heads of households receive guidance from religious leaders and that families stay in the habit of going to Church. He said parents should moderate their behaviors, and set a good example, especially regarding alcohol and drugs, because alcoholism and drug addiction are causing the disintegration of families.
The Dance
On the other hand, the traditional dance that is held every year in the Town Square will begin at 9pm and continue as long as the "bodies hold out". In the past, entire families have continued after 9am on January first. A large crowd is expected, as in previous years. There will be security personnel from the three levels of government at the perimeter of the event to ensure safety.
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View from the rooms. |
MaraVilla Caribe Bed & Beach Three rentals with large glass doors overlooking our white sand beach and the beautiful Caribbean sea, with kitchenettes & free WIFI. In the coastal neighborhood of Bachilleres, among upscale villas & boutique hotelitos, convenient to downtown or the colonias, yet separate. Quiet & Private.
Kitchen in a large studio. (Sur & Norte are identical) |
Kitchenette in small room, Medio. There's a table & chairs across from it & a double bed. |
A large slider opens from each of the 3 rooms onto the patio where each has a table & chairs, hammock & clotheslines. The BBQ is behind the pole, and the outdoor shower is outa the pic at left. |
Large studio (Norte), I'm standing in the kitchen |
Free amenities such as hammocks, bikes, outdoor shower, portable beach chairs & beach towels, washer, loungers & BBQ. Breathtaking panoramic views from the rooftop terrace. Upstairs room also available. Downtown is ~ a mile away; if you don't feel like walking or biking, flag a $2 taxi or hop on the bus. We also have room for parking,You can enjoy the music & crowds downtown, then come home our quiet neighborhood of Bachilleres where you'll sleep to the sounds of the sea.. $275/$325/$425 wk $40/50/$65nt Monthly Discounts
Large studio (Sur) with Queen & Single bed. Slider door & view are behind me. |
Fine dining a few steps away at Da Luisa or try the traditional neighborhood eateries a couple blocks farther. Stroll five minutes southward down the coastal sidewalk to Mango Cafe, Bahama Mama, Brisas, or Manolitos. Walk less than 10 minutes southwest to shop at Chedraui or to dine at Green Verde, Kash Kechen Chuc, or other options. Visit marinas, bars, & beach clubs that are minutes away by bike or on foot. Our guests recommend the Yoga classes a couple villas away at hotelito Casa Ixchel. Fresh juice, produce & tortillas a few blocks away in the village, as well as a variety of other stores and small local restaurants.
December events
Sunset ~6:05
Moonrise over the Caribbean
Dec. 25 6:46
Dec. 26 7:43
Dec. 27 8:38
Dec. 28 9:32
Dec. 29 10:24
Dec. 30 11:09
Dec 31 12:03am (Jan. 1)
Casa de Cultura: The photography exhibition of Isla's biological diversity is scheduled to continue thru Dec. 7. It features 70 photographs of native flora & fauna by local amateur photographers, including city employees, and students, rotated in groups of 40.
Casa de Cultura: "Una Mujer en Isla Mujeres" continues thru Dec. 11. Includes photographs and works on handmade bark paper.
On Thursday Dec. 3 you are invited to come to the esplanade (outdoor plaza) of the Casa de Cultura Isla Mujeres for the 10p food samples (from 5-7) and the artist fair (from 4-9), & dance troupe performances.
Thursday, Dec. 3 World Disabilities Day 4p March from police station to
Salina Chica Green Dome where there will be workshops, educational
activities, testimonials, and a performance by a pair of dancers from
Cancun. Cancelled due to weather
Friday, December 4 Inauguration of exhibition "A Tribute to the Mexican Muralistas" by the high school students of Bachilleres
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Nov 28 - Dec 8 Festival for the Virgin of Immaculate Conception, the Town Saint. is held annually. Link
Photos from two years ago (City press release)
Saturday, Nov. 28 Church of Immaculate Conception Mass at 7p followed by the taking down of the icon and a procession thru downtown, followed by fireworks, with music and folkloric performances of traditional dances in regional clothing at the church esplanade
Festival events at 8p nightly.
Sunday, Nov. 29: Miraflores neighborhood guild, with music and a dance
Monday,
Nov. 30: The union of the Public Security Department (police) with a
presentation of the ballet folclórico at the Casa de la Cultura,
starting at 8pm.
Tuesday, Dec. 1: Two groups. The
CROC gastronomic union and the neighborhood guild of colonia Salina
Chica, where the RDS dance troupe will perform at 8pm
Wednesday,
Dec. 2: Colonia Salina Grande neighborhood guild, with a presentation
by the Senior Citizens Dance troupe and a performance by local artists
César López and Anabel Burgos.
Thursday, Dec. 3: The cooperatives Caribe and Isla Bonita with a presentation of the ballet folclórico La Isleña at 8pm.
Friday,
Dec. 4: Five groups together: Barrio de Pescadores, Cooperativa Adolfo
López Mateos, Isla Bonita, Colonia El Cañotal, and the Youth Group, with
a grand concert and a velada juvenil with Rene Francisco.
Saturday,
Dec. 5: Four groups: Patria y Progreso fishing coop, Justicia Social
fishing coop, el esperado woman's group, and the neighborhood guild of
colonia La Gloria, with a presentation of the program Lluvia de
Estrellas (Cascade of Stars) with local singers.
Sunday, Dec 6: The cooperative Isla Mujeres and the children's group, and the confirmations will take place
Monday,
Dec. 7: Mega caravan with participation by all the people, with Las
Mañanitas being sung to the Virgin of Immaculate Conception at the
chapels of Caridad del Cobre, Sagrado Corazón and La Guadalupe.
Tuesday,
Dec. 8: The guild of Las Conchitas, the first communions will take
place, and the grand boat procession with dozens of vessels depart from the concrete pier at 4pm. THE POSTER SAYS 3P.8p Celebration (Gran Kermes), Dancing, Concert Town Square
Dec. 11 Community Center in La Gloria 10a-12p: Human Rights Commission lecture about rights of people living w HIV or AIDS
Dec. 11 Casa de Cultura:
Dec. 11 Chapel of Guadalupe Salina Chica-overlooking the Caribbean People gather to sing Las Mananitas to the Virgin of Guadalupe at midnight
Dec. 12 Dia de la Virgen Guadalupe...patron saint of Mexico Link to info about Guadalupe & Juan Diego
3pm there will be dozens of small children dressed as Juan Diego (who saw the vision of the Virgin of Guadalupe on the hill at Tepeyac, 484 years ago) and as shepherds and shepherdesses in a procession going ~2km from the downtown church to the Chapel of Guadalupe in colonia Salina Chica, where the priest will hold a mass at 5pm.
Start of Guadalupe-Reyes Holiday period, which ends January 6th. School vacation begins Dec. 12
Dec. 15, Tuesday Inauguration of Community Hospital (which began operations in September) time TBA
Dec, 16-24 Posadas Navidenas... There is usually a children's Posada play during this time Link to information
During the posadas, there is usually a dance on the town square, featuring dances & costumes from different regions of Mexico
Dec. 17 Naval Band performance 8pm Town Square
Dec. 19 Annual Golf Cart Parade 6p from Bachilleres thru the colonias
Dec. 20 Cancun Hotel Zone area 5p Annual decorated boat parade Link
Dec. 24 Noche Buena / Christmas Eve
Last Ultramar ferry departs Gran Puerto at 10:30p and Isla Mujeres at 11p
Dec. 25 Dia de Navidad / Christmas Day
First Ultramar crossing from Gran Puerto is 7a and from Isla Mujeres 7:30a
Car ferry departs Isla Mujeres at 8am and Punta Sam at 9am. The earlier crossing is cancelled.
December 25-30 Casa de Cultura 8pm Nightly except Mon 28th. Q Roo Costumes on display at times given Performances by dance troupes of the National
Congress of Mexican Folkloric Dance..."A fragment of the mosaic mural of
Mayan culture"
Dec. 28 Dia de los Santos Innocentes A day of practical jokes, similar to "April Fool's Day"
Dec. 29 you are invited to come to the esplanade (outdoor plaza) of the Casa de Cultura Isla Mujeres for the 10p food samples (from 5-7) and the artist fair (from 4-9), & dance troupe performances.
Dec. 31 New Year's Eve Festival on the Town Square. Tables can be reserved at the entrance to the Town Hall 10am-3pm.
Last Ultramar ferry departs Gran Puerto at 10:30p and Isla Mujeres at 11p
People observe the sunrise at Punta Sur on New Year's morn.
Jan. 1
First Ultramar crossing from Gran Puerto is 7a and from Isla Mujeres 7:30a
Car ferry departs Isla Mujeres at 8am and Punta Sam at 9am. The earlier crossing is cancelled
Every Tuesday and Thursday: Free spay/neuter clinic (Isla Animals)
Consults 100p, Vaccines: parvo & distemper 50p, flea & tick meds 20p, wormer 10p. Helpers always welcome! Isla Animals, Mundaca Hacienda, 10am-4pm (No food morning of surgery/water ok)