Cozumel News January 6th, 2015: Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Visit Cozumel, Mexico 3% Gas Increase Changed, A New Mayan Ritual Ceremony in Cozumel and Aurita’s Corner with another homeless death in Cozumel.
Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Visit Cozumel
Former US President Jimmy Carter, visited Cozumel on January first on his way to an undisclosed destination via a cruise ship. He was President of the United States from 1977 to 1981 and won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002.
He spent at least 60 minutes strolling along the Mayan ruins of San Gervasio, accompanied by his wife Rosalynn Carter, Family and discreetly escorted by agents of the United States Secret Service, an entourage of about 15 people.
Jimmy Carter wore comfortable clothes. He wore a blue sweatshirt in white shorts, white tennis shoes, and a white beret and sunglasses to protect his identity. His wife, Rosalynn Carter, wore blue jeans, a long sleeved white blouse, a hat to protect her from the sun, and matching tennis shoes.
In San Gervasio, they were accompanied by staff from the National Institute Anthropology and History (INAH), retiring one hour after arriving.
In his dialogue with staff from Parks Foundation and Museum of Cozumel, former president of the American union highlighted the tranquility, beauty and history of Cozumel. It was learned that his entourage reached the island aboard a cruise ship (the name not released), and continued his vacation.
Mexico 3% Gas Increase Changed
The anticipated gasoline increase of 3% did not happen, instead gasoline prices increased by 1.9% effective January 1. The latest information reported by the Diario Oficial de la Federación (DOF), or The Official Journal of The Federation (in English), is that there will be no more gasoline increases in 2015. The 1.9% increase over the December 2014 prices is a maximum guideline. In other words, individual Pemex Franchises could charge less for gasoline if they wish.
The cost of Liquid propane gas increased 1.9% on January 1, also said to be the only increase for propane gas scheduled for 2015.
A New Mayan Ritual Ceremony in Cozumel
The Coparmex Local (Coparmex) announced that a Mayan Ritual Ceremony called “Sunset Maya” will start in mid-January.
Juan González Castelán, Cozumel Director of Tourism, explained that this show is estimated to consist of 30 members of the folkloric ballet; all characterized as the ancient inhabitants of the island. Although many details were not given, he announced that they seek to publicize among domestic and foreign visitors the importance of Ixchel, the Mayan goddess mother
The presentations will be held in the evenings during the sunset. The stage will be the esplanade of the flag.
Aurita’s Corner
Homeless Death
On December 30th, a man I had met through Casa Esperanza died of head injuries. He is but one of the recent indigents killed in Cozumel. His name is Isidro Iuit Ordóñez. He was said to be a knowledgeable person in his youth that studied law. After his wife betrayed him with his best friend, disillusionment drove him to alcoholism. He was a passive kind soul who has been the victim of aggression in the past. The City has no programs available to these homeless men, and the programs that do exist have no proper documentation of services provided, proper supervision, experienced, or trained staff. The men are left to fend for themselves, many times without food on the premises. Desperate, and without a real treatment program, they leave to once again live on the streets and dig through trash for food. Donations are not being used properly in the program he was a part of. If you or your organization wants to help, please contact me to discuss putting together a program that will make a difference. That is all that I will say at this time.
On a lighter note, I want to take the opportunity to thank all of you that have taken the time to write, call, or stop by to thank me and express your appreciation for The Cozumel Sun. This past year has been challenging and your words of encouragement encouraged me to continue this labor of love. Keep contacting me with your comments and ideas, let us make 2015 even better!
Wishing everyone a Blessed, Healthy and Prosperous New Year!
