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| The webcam is working again. Here's the LINK, which also has time lapse of the past 24 hours. |
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| Photo by Bruce from MVC roof of palapa fire near the middle school. No injuries or other structures harmed. . |
A new whale shark documentary is available on Amazon which follows the path of two whale sharks, "Milo" & "Lucho" after they were tagged last summer in Isla Mujeres. On this (nearly) real-time tracking website,(linked) you can see when they've returned to the waters near Isla Mujeres, along with "Rio Lady".
Milo swam more than 7000 miles, going east past Bermuda into the Atlantic, and returning to this area in February. He spent a month in the Gulf of Mexico, and returned again early last month.
Lucho went southeast to the Turks & Caicos, turned around & came west to the coast of Honduras, and returned here in late December. He stayed until a month ago, when he headed north into the Gulf, where he remains.
Rio Lady, who's not in the documentary, swam up to the western part of the Gulf before returning here & heading down near South America. She turned around & came back here, traveling along the coast of Honduras, then swam north toward Louisiana, before swimming into the western Gulf again, where she is currently.
There's a trailer for the documentary on Amazon Prime, where you can download it for $4.99 us. "This is Their Ocean: Sea of Life", narrated by Guy Harvey's daughter, Jessica, with mantas, baby sea turtles, various sea creatures, & student contest winners encountering the whale sharks. The promo says: "Find out how eco-tourism is helping to save them all! It's a big adventure you won't forget!"
LINK to the real time shark tracking website
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I wrote this yesterday, May 14
Mexico & WWII--German U Boats Near Isla Mujeres
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| US merchant ship "Velma Lykes" which was torpedoed and sunk 15 miles from Isla Mujeres on June 5, 1942 by a German U boat. (Photo taken when she was previously named "Lake Flournoy") |
Several months earlier, U boats had begun attacking tankers and
merchant ships in the Caribbean. During the four days between June 2
& 5, 1942, three ships near Isla Mujeres were sunk in the Yucatan
Channel by the same U boat.
These three vessels included the US merchant ship, "Velma Lykes", which was about 15 miles east of the island when she was hit. She sank in less than a minute. The 32 survivors climbed aboard three rafts which had floated free, since they didn't have time to launch the lifeboats. The next day they were spotted by a convoy-escort plane & the 17 remaining survivors were picked up by the ship "Ardenvohr". Four days later, that ship was torpedoed, but all the men from the "Velma Lykes" survived the second sinking & eventually landed in their destination of Cristobal.
The British flagged "Knoxville City" and the Norwegian ship "Nidarnes" were sunk about 50 & 90 miles from the island. Two days after the British ship sank, her crew was found by a Brazilian-flagged vessel who offered to take them to New Orleans, but the survivors declined out of fear of suffering another attack by the German submarine, which they had seen patrolling the area. In the end, they were saved a Cuban Naval ship. The 11 survivors from the Norwegian ship were rescued the day after it sank by a US vessel. The attacks continued on into the summer.
Even before the US had been drawn into the war with the Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor in Dec.1941, the US military was negotiating with Mexico for permission to fly through Mexican airspace and to refuel in Oaxaca & Yucatan. Of the landing fields available on the Yucatan Peninsula, Cozumel's seemed like the best option, and permission to improve it was granted in August, 1941, as well as to use the Pan Am airfield in Merida until it was finished. It was expected to take a year, and Mexican laborers set to work on it.
It was agreed that once the airfields were upgraded, using US funds, they would remain under the control of the Mexican military. However, in November 1942, when the Mexican Secretary of Defense viewed the plans, he questioned the number of buildings the Americans were planning on the sites and asked why they would be necessary, since Mexico had never agreed to allow American servicemen to be stationed in Cozumel.
Back in 1941, when the US had requested permission to station servicemen in Mexico as aviation mechanics, Mexican officials refused, citing their Constitution, which forbids this. Mexican officials said the stationing of foreign military personnel on the airfields would transform the simple use of the airfields into them being used as air bases, which couldn't be permitted. A compromise was made, allowing the mechanics to enter Mexico and remain on the airfields as employees of Pan Am, wearing civilian clothes, but not as members of the US Army.
Mexico was adamant that foreign troops would not be allowed to man bases on Mexican soil. On the west coast of Mexico, US technicians were allowed to operate and service radar facilities while they taught Mexicans to do the job, but only if they came in very small numbers. After seeing the Cozumel plans, the Mexican Secretary of Defense (former President Cardenas) halted the work and forbade the construction of any lodgings, commissaries, or other buildings at the Cozumel and Oaxaca airfields, saying only improvements to the existing runways would be allowed, and nothing more. He said it was a temporary suspension while the issue was being studied, but construction never resumed.
The US began flying anti-submarine missions out of Cuba and the Caymans, who welcomed the protection of the US. By the end of 1942, the tide was turning in favor of the Allies, the U boats were recalled by Berlin to defend North Africa, and the Japanese threat of airstrikes to the Panama Canal was over. Mexican airbases were no longer as important to the US, who didn't contest the work stoppage. By 1944, one part of the Cozumel airstrip was being maintained by Pan Am for use in emergency landings only, and the other was occupied by the Mexican military. In October, 1945, after the end of the war, Transportes Aeros Mexicanos began using the Cozumel airfield for flights to Isla Mujeres, Carrillo Puerto, Chetumal, Merida and Belize six days a week.
During World War II, Mexico gave the US permission to conscript Mexican nationals living in the US for military service, and hundreds of thousands of farm workers crossed the border to work for US agricultural companies as part of the Bracero Program (which outlasted the war by nearly two decades.) It is estimated that about 15,000 Mexican nationals served in the US military during the war and nearly 1500 were killed, imprisoned, injured or missing.
After Pearl Harbor was attacked, Mexico was one of the first countries to pledge support and aid to the US, and they immediately severed all diplomatic ties with the Axis powers. At a conference in Rio de Janeiro of Latin American foreign ministers in January of 1942, the Mexican delegation convinced many other countries to follow suit and break ties with the Axis powers.
~~~~~~~~~~~~These three vessels included the US merchant ship, "Velma Lykes", which was about 15 miles east of the island when she was hit. She sank in less than a minute. The 32 survivors climbed aboard three rafts which had floated free, since they didn't have time to launch the lifeboats. The next day they were spotted by a convoy-escort plane & the 17 remaining survivors were picked up by the ship "Ardenvohr". Four days later, that ship was torpedoed, but all the men from the "Velma Lykes" survived the second sinking & eventually landed in their destination of Cristobal.
The British flagged "Knoxville City" and the Norwegian ship "Nidarnes" were sunk about 50 & 90 miles from the island. Two days after the British ship sank, her crew was found by a Brazilian-flagged vessel who offered to take them to New Orleans, but the survivors declined out of fear of suffering another attack by the German submarine, which they had seen patrolling the area. In the end, they were saved a Cuban Naval ship. The 11 survivors from the Norwegian ship were rescued the day after it sank by a US vessel. The attacks continued on into the summer.
Even before the US had been drawn into the war with the Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor in Dec.1941, the US military was negotiating with Mexico for permission to fly through Mexican airspace and to refuel in Oaxaca & Yucatan. Of the landing fields available on the Yucatan Peninsula, Cozumel's seemed like the best option, and permission to improve it was granted in August, 1941, as well as to use the Pan Am airfield in Merida until it was finished. It was expected to take a year, and Mexican laborers set to work on it.
It was agreed that once the airfields were upgraded, using US funds, they would remain under the control of the Mexican military. However, in November 1942, when the Mexican Secretary of Defense viewed the plans, he questioned the number of buildings the Americans were planning on the sites and asked why they would be necessary, since Mexico had never agreed to allow American servicemen to be stationed in Cozumel.
Back in 1941, when the US had requested permission to station servicemen in Mexico as aviation mechanics, Mexican officials refused, citing their Constitution, which forbids this. Mexican officials said the stationing of foreign military personnel on the airfields would transform the simple use of the airfields into them being used as air bases, which couldn't be permitted. A compromise was made, allowing the mechanics to enter Mexico and remain on the airfields as employees of Pan Am, wearing civilian clothes, but not as members of the US Army.
Mexico was adamant that foreign troops would not be allowed to man bases on Mexican soil. On the west coast of Mexico, US technicians were allowed to operate and service radar facilities while they taught Mexicans to do the job, but only if they came in very small numbers. After seeing the Cozumel plans, the Mexican Secretary of Defense (former President Cardenas) halted the work and forbade the construction of any lodgings, commissaries, or other buildings at the Cozumel and Oaxaca airfields, saying only improvements to the existing runways would be allowed, and nothing more. He said it was a temporary suspension while the issue was being studied, but construction never resumed.
The US began flying anti-submarine missions out of Cuba and the Caymans, who welcomed the protection of the US. By the end of 1942, the tide was turning in favor of the Allies, the U boats were recalled by Berlin to defend North Africa, and the Japanese threat of airstrikes to the Panama Canal was over. Mexican airbases were no longer as important to the US, who didn't contest the work stoppage. By 1944, one part of the Cozumel airstrip was being maintained by Pan Am for use in emergency landings only, and the other was occupied by the Mexican military. In October, 1945, after the end of the war, Transportes Aeros Mexicanos began using the Cozumel airfield for flights to Isla Mujeres, Carrillo Puerto, Chetumal, Merida and Belize six days a week.
During World War II, Mexico gave the US permission to conscript Mexican nationals living in the US for military service, and hundreds of thousands of farm workers crossed the border to work for US agricultural companies as part of the Bracero Program (which outlasted the war by nearly two decades.) It is estimated that about 15,000 Mexican nationals served in the US military during the war and nearly 1500 were killed, imprisoned, injured or missing.
After Pearl Harbor was attacked, Mexico was one of the first countries to pledge support and aid to the US, and they immediately severed all diplomatic ties with the Axis powers. At a conference in Rio de Janeiro of Latin American foreign ministers in January of 1942, the Mexican delegation convinced many other countries to follow suit and break ties with the Axis powers.
NOT Isla Mujeres....we've remained out of the path so far this 'sargasso season' & our beaches are clean. This is from Playa del Carmen. Photo from SIPSE
A video of a being woman rescued from drowning in a sea of sargasso in Playa del Carmen has been circulating on social networks. The post says it happened on Saturday, when those on shore realized she was having difficulties and assisted her. The incident occurred on the beach known as "El Recodo", a bay where the largest amounts of sargasso accumulate, due to the currents.
Although this beach is located in front of one of the City's largest hotels, it isn't frequented by swimmers because fishing boats are moored there. The beach has no warning signs and no Civil Protection lifeguard, but the hotel provides a lifeguard. The video is at this link, with the article in Spanish.
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Protected Parrotfish of Isla Mujeres: Pooping Out Beaches & Saving Reefs
You're probably not surprised to hear that Isla's white sand beaches are made up of coral, shells, & limestone, ground into fine particles, but you probably didn't know how much of it passed thru parrotfish! Scientists estimate that up to 70% of the sand on Caribbean beaches was excreted by parrotfish, with each fish producing hundreds of pounds yearly.
But it's their ability to save reefs that prompted Mexican legislators to add ten species of parrotfish to the Protected Species List last October. An essential part of the reef ecosystem, they prevent algae from choking out corals. They feed (noisily!) on calcareous algae (algae that are high in mineral calcium) growing on dead exposed coral, by biting off chunks and then they excrete fine sand. (Apparently they can do this 'on command' when feeling threatened, as Bruce discovered while snorkeling off MVC & a school let loose, all together, as he swam up to them.) Parrotfish may eat some live coral, but this is far outweighed by the benefits they bring, including promotion of coral growth.
Their flamboyant colors make them popular with snorkelers & divers.
Each species has a different color scheme, and they change their
“outfits” as they age. These dramatic shifts in "fashion" confused
researchers for over 200 years, who regarded some phases as distinct
species. Many are sequential hermaphrodites, changing from female to
male as they mature. Before retiring for the night, parrotfish spend
half an hour constructing a mucus nightgown, open on each end. The foul
tasting, smelly pj's deter predators who hunt by scent.
Many scientists say the #1 thing we can do to ensure the health of coral reefs is to protect parrotfish. Several years ago, experts released a report based on 35,000 surveys, at 90 locations, which concluded that Caribbean corals had declined by more than 50% since the 1970s.
It said that most Caribbean reefs have been dominated by algae since the mid-90's. This shift was attributed to overfishing of parrotfish, and a massive die off of sea urchins, who are another key herbivore. Reefs where parrotfish were abundant in the 1980's, and where fishing practices that harm them were restricted, are the reefs that are healthy now.
So the next time you snorkel the reefs or enjoy the island's white sand beaches, thank a colorful parrotfish! And please wear reef-safe sunscreen while you do!
From Isla Mujeres News & Events who are sponsored by Maravilla Caribe Bed & Beach.
I know it would have been more professional to post photos of parrotfish, but I couldn't resist the singing hermit crab...(I'm having no luck downloading it, here's the LINK)
Chedraui quit providing plastic bags at the checkout! Yay!!
When you're packing, don't forget to bring a couple reusable shopping bags.
BTW, I love using mesh produce bags...stuff keeps longer!
At MVC the studios are stocked with these items, as well as insulated metal water bottles. We also let our guests know if they'd like to buy biogradable sunscreen, natural insect repellent, or other eco-friendly products, BIO GREEN BLUE is a 10 minute walk into Salina Chica, across from Isla Brewing.
Many scientists say the #1 thing we can do to ensure the health of coral reefs is to protect parrotfish. Several years ago, experts released a report based on 35,000 surveys, at 90 locations, which concluded that Caribbean corals had declined by more than 50% since the 1970s.
It said that most Caribbean reefs have been dominated by algae since the mid-90's. This shift was attributed to overfishing of parrotfish, and a massive die off of sea urchins, who are another key herbivore. Reefs where parrotfish were abundant in the 1980's, and where fishing practices that harm them were restricted, are the reefs that are healthy now.
So the next time you snorkel the reefs or enjoy the island's white sand beaches, thank a colorful parrotfish! And please wear reef-safe sunscreen while you do!
From Isla Mujeres News & Events who are sponsored by Maravilla Caribe Bed & Beach.
I know it would have been more professional to post photos of parrotfish, but I couldn't resist the singing hermit crab...(I'm having no luck downloading it, here's the LINK)
Chedraui quit providing plastic bags at the checkout! Yay!!
When you're packing, don't forget to bring a couple reusable shopping bags.
BTW, I love using mesh produce bags...stuff keeps longer!
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TVisla Mujeres reports that the whale shark tour licensees are awaiting delivery of their permits for the season which begins Wednesday, May 15 (NOTE-- Yesterday, one of the licensees said it didn't look like the permits would be ready on Wednesday (today), but should be distributed shortly thereafter.)
TV Isla Mujeres reports the amount of the damages is unknown from the fire that destroyed two sheds behind the middle school around 4p yesterday. It occurred at a marina located a few meters from the Patria & Progreso fishing cooperative and no one was injured. The flames consumed everything in their path, but fortunately didn't reach a catamaran that was a few meters away.
Residents & fishermen immediately notified authorities and began working to put it out, and the Naval firefighters responded promptly. (who were assisted by the municipal firefighters according to other reports.) LINK VIDEO VIDEO
TV Isla Mujeres reports that a man was shot to death last night near the Ultramar ferry terminal "Gran Puerto" in Puerto Juarez, laying face down in the parking garage with bullet wounds. The soldiers at the terminal guarded the area while the municipal, state, and ministerial police arrived. When the paramedics arrived, the victim had already passed away, and his identity wasn't known as of last evening.
The incident occurred shortly before 9:30 pm, causing fear among those waiting for the ferry to Isla Mujeres. When the 9:30 ferry docked, many decided not to get off the boat, while the islanders took the opportunity to board and return to their safe homes. LINK VIDEO
Isla Mujeres al Dia reports that the Isla Mujeres Cocteleros won the first game of the season against the Cancun Airport team on Sunday at the El Pescador field here on the island, with a score of 10 to 0.
VIDEO of firefighters
After various complaints on social media, Isla Mujeres officials responded to a fence being built in the Federal Zone neat the Riito beach (across from Mia) in the area of an hotel, which was removed because they didn't have permission to install it. (Isla Mujeres al Dia)
Isla Mujeres al Dia says: Happy Teacher's Day
Dia de la Marina, Navy Day, is June 1st and this Sunday on the Town Square at 8pm the queen will be chosen.
La Tertulia reports: Fidel Villanueva Madrid, historian & former mayor, recommends the Punta Sur sculptures be moved to the seabed to form an artificial reef. LINK
Invasion of public walkway puts pedestrians at risk LINK Residents in Miraflores are complaining about a family who blocks the sidewalk with refrigerators and such, and now have invaded the walkway with a sidewalk. It is noted that many sidewalks are obstructed in the colonias and downtown, which makes it dangerous and `difficult for children, disabled and elderly and puts pedestrians in general at risk because they are forced to walk in the street among the vehicles. It is also noted that many people block the streets with buckets and other objects to prevent outsiders from parking in front of their properties. In some areas, both sides of the street are occupied by parked vehicles, leaving a narrow area of street for cars to pass through.
La Tertulia reports that two suspects were arrested for the execution by the parking garage at Gran Puerto Ultramar ferry terminal in Puerto Juarez. VIDEO from Cancun Al Minuto
VIDEO from palapa fire VIDEO VIDEO VIDEO
From Por Esto :
Some surgeries are now available on the island
Ya se pueden realizar algunas cirugías en la isla
Because of their importance, programs for detection of breast and cervical cancer have been implemented on a permanent basis at the Community hospital. The facility has a pediatrician on Fridays, as well as a surgeon and surgeon. anesthesiologist, so that some kinds of surgical interventions can be done on the island, as long as they are uncomplicated.For women who no longer wish to have more children, there will be a campaign offering Bilateral Tubal Occlusion on May 31st. Women may receive this surgery whether or not they have Seguro Popular. They will be admitted for a few hours and will return home the same day.
Today is May 15th & still no whale shark permits
Hoy es 15 y aún no hay permisos
The whale shark tour permits have not been released, although today is officially the first day of the season. There are about 240 permit holders in Isla Mujeres for the "Aguas Azules", blue waters, aka the Mexican Caribbean Reserve (RVCM), as well as around 170 permits for "Aguas Verdes", green waters, aka Whale Shark Reserve (RVTB).Two palapas consumed by fire
Dos palapas consumidas por el fuego
Yesterday around 4p, Isla Mujeres and Naval firemen put out a fire that destroyed two palapas which were located behind the middle school, and totally consumed them. According to witnesses, one of the flimsy constructions that burned on all four sides was known as the Pimientas palapa and was used as a repair shop for outboard motors. A witness said that all the lumber and motors were burned, but fortunately no one was inside at the time of the fire, whose cause is unknown. The large clouds of smoke attracted many onlookers including some who came by jetskis from Makax lagoon.Cabbies want rate increase
Reclaman aumento a tarifas
Now a liter of gas costs more than a dollar, since it is being sold downtown for 20.60 per liter and the dollar is at 18 pesos the purchase and 19.25 pesos on sale. (There are 3.8 liters in a gallon, so a gallon is 78.28 pesos, at 18p/$1 that's $4.35/gallon.) This is making it difficult for taxi drivers to make a profit, since they must pay for the gas used on their shift, as well as paying for use of the cab. It has also caused price increases, which are affecting homemakers when they are purchasing basic staples and groceries.Litter left at public beach
Dejan la playa pública llena de basura
Por Esto reports that complaints can be made to 98-31-24-07-00 and 99-82-74-16-61.
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| Trash left at the Pet Friendly Beach. Photo from Plogging Day Isla Mujeres. |
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| Photo from Plogging Day Isla Mujeres.It says littering can incur a fine of 20 to 50,000 UMA's. An UMA is 102 pesos, equivalent to the daily minimum wage. |
Programa curso la Conanp
Information is provided about a last-minute training course for whale shark tour guides, with registration at the CONANP offices in Cancun. These training courses are required for the guides.Ready for the international sports fishing tournament
Alistan torneo internacional de pesca deportiva
The weather forecast is good for this weekend's 16th International Cosme Magana Fishing Tournament (see events section). Final registration is at the Friday night Captain's Dinner and the tournament will end on Sunday at 4p with prizes awarded at 6p. As usual, the competition will be based at the pier of the Caribe fishing cooperative, with the boats departing both days at 8am.The species that qualify for points are: white marlin (catch & release), sailfish (catch & release), wahoo, sierra, dorado, bonito tuna and barracuda.
Last year's tournament was won by the "El Diablito" boat, this time defending the title; "Kianah" took second place; "Celeste", was third; "Keen M",was fourth; and "Sea Dreams", took fifth place. There were 17 white marlins and 45 sailfish that were caught and released, for a total of 62 released billfish, the highest in all the tournaments.
Intervention concerning allegedly irregualar construction
Ya intervienen para frenar obra irregular
Municipal officials with the Urban Development department are looking into a two story, 144 square meter building being constructed by a private individual, because it is allegedly in the Federal Zone. Construction began just before the Easter holidays, and there was a previous article about it by Por Esto concerning the workers being fired when they requested Seguro Social (medical insurance).Removal of another fence blocking the beach
Otro que se quiso pasar de vivo
Earlier this month, officials required the removal of a fence at Playa Centro (erected by Priviledge Aluxes) and now another fence was removed after orders from the authorities, which was located on North Beach in the area known as Playa Riito. The fence was supposedly being used to protect a 'green area'."Flea Market" could use attention
Mercado “La Pulga”, en abandono
The artisans market located near Poc Na provides a low-rent opportunity for merchants to offer crafts, art, and souvenirs from the region, and Por Esto reports that it needs attention from the City to improve its image, so that more tourists will find it an attractive place to browse.Sea swallows nesting in Isla Mujeres
Anidan golondrinas marinas en IM
There is a video on social networks of sea swallows nesting on the rocks near Mia, whose guests have been respecting their territory, and tourists are requested not to disturb them. They are nesting on a rugged part of the islet Yunque, where Mia is located. Many migratory birds visit Isla Mujeres, which has undergone urban growth and increased construction. It is noted that in the winter for the past two years, visiting frigates have fed on fish in Salina Grande. Isla Contoy is the largest bird refuge in the area.Advancing erosion
Avanza la erosión
Erosion continues to affect the cliffs at the southern part of the isle, and a large rock recently fell from one of them. It is noted that there are no plans to reenforce these cliffs. There are concerns that the coastal road could be affected if another strong hurricane occurs like Wilma, because part of the road was "eaten" by hurricane Gilbert (2005, 1988).Residents have been expressing concerns since the construction of Isla 33, which was not limited to two stories in height and is only 15 meters from the shortest section of the cliff, and also has an underground garage.
There is a 10 meter section that could be at risk of falling, if the erosion continues. It is believed that the rock falls will continue with the influences of the winds and vibrations from heavy rocks. Photos from Por Esto.
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NEWS SUMMARY--
(Written on Sunday)
With the new regulations for this year's whale shark tours, participants may only enter the water twice, and wet suit tops may not be substituted for the required life jacket. The boats are now required to have GPS & propeller guards. Tour operators voiced concerns about effects of the guards while traveling to & from the sighting area in open waters, saying they will increase the chance of breakdowns, affect maneuverability & require more fuel. The Harbor Master reassured them the guards are safe & won't alter the performance of their boats. Last year 77,557 visitors took whale shark tours, generating an estimated 3.3 million dollars in income, in addition to spending money on food, lodging, & transportation. Of the 250 permit holders, ~140 are from Isla Mujeres, ~80 are from Holbox and Chiquilá and the rest are from Cancún. The season official begins on Wednesday.
Isla's First Bird Festival concluded yesterday with an early morning bird watching event, followed by a clean-up at Salina Aeropuerto & report on last year's bird monitoring at Chacmochuc Lagoon, which is located in the mainland part of the Isla Mujeres municipality, where development is taking place, and is part of the Reserva de la Biosfera Caribe Mexicano. The bird mural at the library, "17 de Agosto", will be completed & inaugurated next week, painted by Victor Puga. About 160 species of birds have been sighted in Isla Mujeres, of which 70 are migratory, according to Accion Isla. Last year at Chacmochuch Lagoon, 155 species of birds were registered of which 107 species were residents, 48 were migratory, and 21 are categorized as "at risk". Thank you to the volunteers, Accion Isla & Mayan Green Jay!
Unfortunately, a fisherman with the "Isla Blanca" cooperative died from decompression on Wednesday, after diving down to 110 feet in the area known as "Arrowsmith". Navardo Dzib, who was between 45 and 50 years old, died after a single dive of about 50 minutes to spear a grouper. He felt badly when he surfaced, so they immediately headed back toward the island, but he passed away before they reached shore. A brother of the deceased, Menalio Dzib, died in similar circumstances.
One hundred and ten Mexican athletes participated in the National Olympic open water swimming competition held in Isla Mujeres last week. The Quintana Roo team took second place overall with 361 points, first place went to Baja California with 851 points, and Jalisco was third with 253 points
The high school students at Colegio Bachilleres had a 3 day break during a state-wide teachers strike concerning salary & benefit changes under the new Educational Reform law, which was resolved in time for them to return to classes on Friday.
For the fourth consecutive year, the Municipal DIF of Isla Mujeres received a donation from the "Alas de Aguila" (Wings of an Eagle") association, for the benefit of the CRIM facilities for physical rehabilitation.
Today, the Cockteleros will begin the new season at the El Pescador stadium at 1pm when they play the Areopuerto SNTIA team. They finished last season in fourth place.
While the swimming beaches of Isla Mujeres remain free of sargasso, and very minimal amounts have arrived to the eastern turtle nesting beaches, Cancun & the Maya Riviera are experiencing the start of the 'season'. The state has committed 15 million pesos for containment and cleanup, while the federal government is planning an announcement this week. The President said the Navy will play a central role, rather than contracting with private companies. Last year the most affected areas were Tulum and Mahahual, followed by Puerto Morelos, with Cozumel and Isla Mujeres experiencing the least. Sargasso has affected coastal regions throughout the Caribbean and Latin America since 2015, and an international conference is scheduled in Cancun later this month. In addition to its economic impact on tourism, there are also concerns about the its effects on coastal ecosystems.
Mother's Day in Mexico was Friday, when moms who are municipal employees were given the day off, and a special breakfast event at the El Pescador beach club, with mariachis, gifts, and a "Thank-You" from the Mayor. There is a monument to Mothers in the La Gloria park.
The City has been repairing Rueda Medina between the Car ferry parking lot and the El Pescador baseball field, causing traffic slow-downs and increased usage of the coastal road.
The 16th International Cosme Magana Fishing tournament is next weekend with over a million dollars in prizes. The women's tournament "La Dorada Del Caribe 2019" will be held June 28 & 29.
The "S" in "ISLA" fell off the photo op sign, which has happened to three other letters, due to corrosion where they are attached at their bases.
In miscellaneous restaurant news, a new Italian restaurant "DeNuccio's opened along the Caribbean road near Guadalupana, , aMar closed & "Mahache" opened there, "Guru" opened where Fenix was located in front of Mia, El Torito's are moving eastward and will be located inside Tiny Gecko, and most importantly, "Yecapixtla" has opened in Green Verde's former location, a ten-minute walk from MaraVilla Caribe (& likely to be gluten free!) They sell tacos & Bruce recommends it based on his lunch today (tho neither of us know how to pronounce it yet!) & other friends have spoken well of it. And we've heard good reviews of the other new eateries & wish them all the best!
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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 & fast WIFI. In the coastal neighborhood of Bachilleres, among upscale villas & boutique hotelitos, convenient to downtown or the colonias, yet separate. Quiet & Private.
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| Kitchen in a large studio. (Sur & Norte are identical) |
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| Kitchenette in small room, Medio. There's a table & chairs across from it & a double bed. |
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| 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. |
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| Large studio (Norte), I'm standing in the kitchen. A queen & single bed. |
Free amenities such as hammocks,bikes, BBQ grills, safes, portable beach chairs & beach towels, washer & dryer, loungers. Breathtaking panoramic views from the rooftop terrace. Large sliding doors open to a patio & our backyard-beach, overlooking the Caribbean sea. Upstairs room also available. Downtown is ~ a mile away; if you don't feel like walking, flag a $2 taxi. 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
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| 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 neighborhood eateries a couple blocks farther. Within ten minutes walk are a variety of restaurants including Mango Cafe, Brisas, Manolitos, La Chatita, Green Verde, Kash Kechen Chuc, and the large department store-grocery , Chedraui. Visit marinas, bars, & beach clubs that are minutes away by bike or on foot. Attend 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. It takes 20-30 minutes to walk downtown.
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Full moon rising over the Caribbean
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May 18 7:20 May 19 8:19 May 20 9:16 May 21 10:10 May 22 11:01 May 23 11:48 Painting by Pamela Haase Sunset ~7:15p-7:25 Sunrise ~6:15a-6:05 |
May Events
Provided by MaraVilla Caribe & Isla Mujeres Daily News & Events
On Saturday's at 8a-10a, Plogging events to clean up the island are held, meetup locations at this LINK . Bring your refillable bottle & they'll supply gloves, water, & bags, Here's the Accion Isla LINK
Wednesday nights at 8:45p, a new bicycling group invite people to join them for healthy recreation, meeting at Juarez & Abasolo. Lights required, helmet recommended. LINK
In May fishermen in this region are banned from catching Lobster, Octopus, Conch & Shark Lobsters kept in captivity continue to be available, along with frozen tails. LINK
Wednesday, May 1 Labor Day. International Dia de los Trajabadores. Banks, schools, government offices, and similar businesses will be closed. Most tourism businesses will be open, as will Chedraui.
Wednesday, May 1 In honor of State Sea Turtle Week & Children's Day, the Tortugranja will present puppet shows tomorrow, May 1st at 9a, 11a, 1p, and 3p
Saturday, May 4 The Caribbean beach "Playa Guadalupana", near the cemetery, is one of the main turtle nesting beaches & you're invited to help clean it up at 9am for the mamas who will start arriving any day now.
Sunday, May 5 "Cinco de Mayo" commemorates a battle against the French in Puebla & is mostly celebrated in bars by folks from the US.
Sunday, May 5 The First National Women's Extreme Roller Skating Festival of the Maya Riviera 2019 will be in Isla Mujeres on Sunday, May 5 from 1p-5p. Free. Schedule:
1p at the Bicentennial Dome in La Gloria: Recreational Games.
2:30p Awareness Competition "Roll & Pickup".
3p at the Skate Park in Salina Chica: Skating Exhibition by Chicas Roller Mexico, Live music by Playa Sol, Cypher of Freestyle, Mural painting, Environmental talk by Accion Isla, Skate Workshops, games & more, with food by Santo Taco.
Monday, May 6 Civic ceremony on the first Monday of each month, usually on the Town Square at 9a.
Thursday, May 9 The 2019 National Olympics and National Youth Olympics competition for the stae of Quintana Roo for open water swimming, in 5, 7, and 10 kilometer distances. They will swim between the concrete pier by the vehicle ferries and the pier of the former Kawama marina to its south. 8am-5pm
Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, May 8, 9 & 11:
Wednesday, May 8
9a-Inauguration in Salina Chica at the library "17 de Agosto" & you're invited to donate a book.
9:15-Cleanup in the mangroves of Salina Aeropuerto and around the Library.
11a-Mural of Birds of Isla Mujeres on the library wall.
6p-Presentation: Celebrating Urban Birds by Green Jay Mayan Birding at the Library.
Thursday, May 9
11a-Celebration of World Migratory Bird Day at the middle school "Benito Juarez" by Green Jay Mayan Birding with a presentation at 11:50a by Amigos de Sian Ka´an and another at 12:45 titled "Birds & Wetlands" by Hidrobios.
6p-Presentation at the City Council room in the Town Hall of "Tourist Guides & Bird Watching".
Saturday, May 11
6:30a-Bird Watching UPDATE-Meeting at the Mundaca Hacienda Palapa .
9:30a-Presentation at the Library: Results of Bird Monitoring in Chacmochuc Lagoon in the Isla Mujeres municipality (on the mainland).
5p-Close of Activities at the Gaviotas Park in Salina Chica with Activities for Children & a neighborly gathering.
11a-Celebration of World Migratory Bird Day at the middle school "Benito Juarez" by Green Jay Mayan Birding with a presentation at 11:50a by Amigos de Sian Ka´an and another at 12:45 titled "Birds & Wetlands" by Hidrobios.
6p-Presentation at the City Council room in the Town Hall of "Tourist Guides & Bird Watching".
Saturday, May 11
6:30a-Bird Watching UPDATE-Meeting at the Mundaca Hacienda Palapa .
9:30a-Presentation at the Library: Results of Bird Monitoring in Chacmochuc Lagoon in the Isla Mujeres municipality (on the mainland).
5p-Close of Activities at the Gaviotas Park in Salina Chica with Activities for Children & a neighborly gathering.
Friday, May 10 Mother's Day
Wednesday, May 15 Whale shark tour season begins and continues until mid-September. Turtle nesting season is from May-October.
Saturday May 18 Red Cross fundraising dinner-event
Saturday & Sunday May 18 & 19: Cosme Magana International fishing tournament with over a million pesos in prizes. Deadline for registration is the Friday night Captain's Dinner. (The women's tournament "La Dorada Del Caribe 2019" will be held June 28 & 29.)
Sources for Weather Information:
LINK to Civil Protection Q Roo weather bulletin (Spanish)
LINK to Mexico National Weather Service (Spanish)
LINK to satellite images for the Mexico National Weather Service
LINK to GOES East Band 16 GIF (animation)
LINK to a private weather station on Isla Mujere
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