Thursday, December 31, 2015

Isla Mujeres Daily News & Events Thursday, December 31




This is the live webcam at North Beach / Playa Norte.  HERE is a timelapse version, that you can set to slow or fast (fps-frames per second). It takes a few seconds to load.
Follow Isla Mujeres News & Events on Facebook for highlights of news & events, and more photos & videos
  Both issues of 
The Isla Mujeres Magazine
 to benefit Isla charities 
 are here
featuring  a variety of talented writers and photographers!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

  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     

Para la “Gran Fiesta de Fin de Año”

Lanrry PARRA

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  

 Cerraron intensas actividades

Lanrry PARRA

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  

Avances en esta materia durante la administración de Agapito son evidentes

Lanrry parra

ISLA MUJERES, 30 de diciembre.-
 See translation below in the City section..... 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

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




~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


Photos from Tuesday evening's dance performance (by Bruce)









 Double rainbow yesterday morning.
 From the roof of MaraVilla Caribe, by Bruce


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~




From Tvisla Mujeres ( link)








~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~



 
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.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
  This blog is brought to you by....
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
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 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:      noon  2p  Isla Mujeres-Caribbean Poetry Contest awards 
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)



Wednesday, December 30, 2015

Isla Mujeres Daily News & Events Wednesday, December 30




This is the live webcam at North Beach / Playa Norte.  HERE is a timelapse version, that you can set to slow or fast (fps-frames per second). It takes a few seconds to load.
Follow Isla Mujeres News & Events on Facebook for highlights of news & events, and more photos & videos
  Both issues of 
The Isla Mujeres Magazine
 to benefit Isla charities 
 are here
featuring  a variety of talented writers and photographers!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

  From  Noticias de Diario de Quintana Roo ....

link to their Isla articles






Poor weather takes a break

Fishermen & boat crews finally go out to sea  

Pescadores y prestadores de servicios náuticos por fin se hicieron a la mar

Lanrry PARRA
ISLA MUJERES, 29 de diciembre.-
  After four days without working, the fishermen finally had an opportunity to go to sea on Wednesday, when the port was opened at 7am for navigation by small boats under 40 feet, who had been restricted due to strong winds. 
     It is noted that there is increased surveillance at this time of year with the support of cadets in training from FIDENA the National Merchant Marine, who verify that the tour boats and other vessels have the required documentation and safety equipment, that they are not exceeding capacity, and that they are respecting requirements such as passengers wearing life vests. 
       The Port Authority anticipates that small vessels will be able to navigate for several more days, depending on weather conditions, which are expected to be sunny with moderate winds.

Courses announced for learning a trade    

Para aprender algún oficio

Lanrry PARRA
ISLA MUJERES, 29 de diciembre.-
  The Municipal Women's Institute extended an invitation to women and men 18 and over who wish to learn a useful trade to attend their training courses which begin in mid January. The courses include Basic Colorimetry, cutting hair, treatment of capillaries, massage, sandal making, make up, and acrylic nails. The head of the Institute, Yuseli Lopez, said the courses are taught by trained instructors from Cancun, and certificates are awarded upon completion by the Ministry of Public Education.
     Required documents for registration include birth certificate, voter's card, CURP, proof of address, and proof of your most recent education. Interested people can go to the Municipal Women's Institute at the La Gloria Community Center between 9am and 4pm.

Boat tours in demand    
Lanrry PARRA
ISLA MUJERES, 29 de diciembre.-
  The boat crews who are members of the tourism cooperative "Adolfo Lopez Mateos" have been unable to keep up with demand, and most boats are making two tours daily, according to their president Manuel Ancona Galue. He said this is expected to continue through Sunday, January 3rd. He said during the first week of vacation they were barely exceeding 70 percent, but are now operating at 100 percent.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

From the Municipal Facebook site.....  (  FB page link)







December 30 is the anniversary of the birth of Adolfo Ruiz Cortines 
Hoy 30 de Diciembre, Natalicio de Adolfo Ruiz Cortines.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~




From Tvisla Mujeres ( link)








~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~



 
From  por esto Link to their Isla Mujeres articles




Port reopened after week of closure for small boats  
Siete días cerrado en vacaciones[+] Ver mas
  The port opened for navigation by small boats at 7am on Tuesday, after they had been restricted for seven days, which has never happened before during Christmas vacation. (The third paragraph says the fishermen had been restricted for more than a week). The president of the cooperative Social Justicia, Baltazar Gomez Catzin, said the first boat returned around noon with about 50 kilos of lobster, which he said was average. He said they expect the other boats to bring in more, because the bad weather causes the lobsters to move and usually the catches are increased after the port reopens. The Harbor Master, Miguel Ismael Gonzalez Gil, advised the nautical community to remain cautious because gusts  of wind and waves could be generated.
     He said there were nearly eleven days when the port was closed for small vessels, which is the first time it has been closed this much during peak Christmas season. The first suspension was Friday, December 18 at 3pm, until it was reopened on Monday, but that same Monday it was closed again until it was reopened on Tuesday morning. He said during that time, the tour boats were allowed to work in the lagoon and near el Farito, but other activities were suspended, therefore the commercial fishermen, sport fishermen, and diving agencies were mainly affected. He said according to the forecasts, this weekend weather is expected to be good for nautical activities.

Hotels have vacancies  
Los hoteles no se llenaron[+] Ver mas
   During the weekend occupancy was 65 percent, but it is estimated that it will be very close to 100 percent by the end of the year. Large numbers of tourists are observed arriving in the morning, and on Tuesday the beaches were busy despite some cloudy skies and very occasional spatters of rain. Golf carts rental agencies have been selling out, and commonly have lines of tourists waiting for a vehicle at 11am and noon. The boat tour groups remain busy, and in the evenings the restaurants on Hidalgo are busier.

Overcoming difficult times
Saben sortear los malos tiempos.. [+] Ver mas
   In 2015, there were new business that opened, mostly restaurants or souvenir stores, and others were demolished or are being renovated. The leader of the Chamber of Commerce (CANACO), Juan Carillo Figueroa said this has been a tough year, but local entrepreneurs have the ability to get through hard times. He said their organization represents has 220 members out of 550 commercial businesses, mostly small convenience stores, souvenir shops, and grocery stores.
      He said this year six new businesses have opened their doors, mostly restaurants, and there has been the construction of larger stores that offer multiple types of souvenirs. He said we have also seen demolitions such as the Plaza Maya, and new buildings being raised, selling products ranging from tequila to pharmacy items. He said there is a proliferation of businesses that sell the same things, while there are others that are needed, mostly by the residents, which are non existent or insufficient.
       He said, "On the island, we have many restaurants, bars, and souvenir stores, for example, and in my opinion, I think we should have a new municipal agency for future entrepreneurs that can directly interact with and advise people who want to open a new business, to diversify the sector, and not put their capital at risk by investing in a market that is already over-saturated." He said, "We have made a great deal of progress this year, with the beach certifications and receiving the Pueblo Magico designation

Increasing amounts of trash  
Cerros de desperdicios creciendo [+] Ver mas
   The municipal Director of Public Services explained that trash is accumulating at the Trash Transfer Facility because there is only one trailer to remove it to the mainland, and now when the vehicle ferry is so full of many people and vehicles, it is not easy to move the garbage to the landfill.
       He said normally the island generates 35-40 tonnes of trash daily, but since the start of the holiday season this has increased to 55 tonnes a day. Regarding a plume of smoke that was seen on Tuesday, he said the staff has already taken care of that. He said the smoke was probably due to some brush that had been burned and extinguished but after putting the fire, it was not completely suffocated, and was smoldering under a thick layer of ash that allowed enough oxygen in to allow it to burn.
  Cabbies catering to tourists
    Each high season, the residents have difficulty getting taxis because the cabbies give preference to tourists, and they forget that in low season they are dependent on the residents.

New folkloric dances of Quintana Roo
Nuevos bailes costumbristas de Quintana Roo. [+] Ver mas



   Directors with the Choreographers Association of Mexico (AFCMAC) said two new types of folkloric dances from Quintana Roo will be released nationwide, from Isla Mujeres and from Holbox. In both cases, researchers have accumulated documentation to support this from an historical perspective.
     Professor Rafael Munoz Florez said the main objective of the conference is to become familiar with the mosaic of folkloric dance in Quintana Roo, with its customs and traditions, and disperse them nationwide. He said it is important to get the information precisely and first hand. He said they are evaluating dance groups in this area and the influences from the Caribbean countries such as Cuba and Belize, with their musical rhythms, salsa, calypso, reggae, and the music and dances that are part of the Carnavals. They are concerned that culture is displayed accurately to visitors at tourist destinations around the state, which is a challenge that must be accepted by those promoting culture, including departments of education, of tourism, and other groups.
    Jose Omar Lara Garcia, president of ACFMAC, said there has been a great deal of diversity present at this conference, concerning the basic fundamentals of folklorico in Quintana Roo, with the introduction of different rhythms that are part of the social and cultural life of the community, which are reflected in the local traditional dances and customs, and we are gaining a good understanding of the folklorico here. He said it is important to share the traditions of communities, which are expressed in their social lives, and these are shared through dance, preserving the historical part of the customs.

   The delegate from Quintana Roo, Jose Mauricio Fernandez Molina, thanked those attending the conference, who have been learning the repertoire of Quintana Roo and will perform them in their home states. The Group from Holbox, who work at the Carnaval dances, have used the services of the teacher Jazmania Antonio of Kantunilkin. This is a legacy that is over 80 years old, and these performances are done by the comparsas (Carnaval dance troupes). 
        Regarding the Trova Isleña, it is a dance that has been lost, but an investigation led to its recovery, talking with the elderly people who were directly involved, or their family members, collecting information to present it on a national level. It is a cultural manifestation of the influence of Cuba and the Caribbean, because there has been an exchange of customs since the time of the pirates, and especially during the Caste War, when Isla Mujeres was a refuge for sailors. It is a part of the folkloric dance tapestry of Quintana Roo, and its historical value has been supported by the Association that organized this convention.





Year of achievements in the cultural field 
Año de logros en materia cultural. [+] Ver mas
  The municipal Director of Culture, Ruben Perez Martin, said 2015 was a year for achievements and they are looking forward to increased support in the upcoming year, now that the Federal Government has established a Ministry for this. "We have instituted a program of research to rescue and revitalize the tradition of dance in Isla Mujeres, and for the first time we have offered and established a circuit of festivals in different disciplines, " he said.
        He said in August there was the theater circuit, there was Isla Fest to mark the Founding of the town, there was an International Harp Festival, and the Juegos Florales was converted into the First International Poetry Competition of Isla Mujeres in the Caribbean, with 142 submission from seven countries.
       He said they hosted the National Congress of Dance, after the Casa de Cultura has been open for five years offering lessons in music, art, Polynesian dances, dances of Isla Mujeres, yoga, and Cardio-dance. He said they have put on 12 exhibitions of various kinds, with presentations of dance groups and music from Korea, Cuba, and Mexico, including the Naval Orchestra and the Mariachis of the Navy of Mexico. There have been four performances of the Quintana Roo symphony orchestra, including a performance by tenor Joel Montero.
      There was a cast of international stature for the Caribbean Festival of Culture. For the first time, Rancho Viejo (on the mainland) held a Carnaval festival, and there were contributions to the festivities of Our Lady of Fatima and Our Lady of Immaculate Conception. He said they have initiated a program of  depuración of the inventory of the public libraries to make them more efficient.
     The Institute of Culture and Arts was created. Next year they will aim to consolidate all these activities, in additions to projects open to independent artists and promoters.  They also hosted the State Folklorico Ballet on two occasions, and the symphony. He said Isla Mujeres has had the largest number of presentations of cultural events in the state.     

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 
  This blog is brought to you by....
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
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 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:      noon  2p  Isla Mujeres-Caribbean Poetry Contest awards 
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)