Members of the library committee informed us that construction has resumed on the lower floor of the soon to be Biblioteca Rey Nayar, a library for the children of Bucerias. They have contracted Ricardo Martinez Curiel to continue with this project. He is the young man whose family owns and operates Restaurante Famar. Ricardo has prepared a proposal of construction materials that are needed and has also set out different phases of construction as the most important to be done first, etc. We would be happy to provide you with this information, should you wish to see what he proposes to do.

The main thing that was noted on his proposal is the need for 135 bags of cement mix at a cost of 98 pesos per bag and approximately the same number of bags of mortero at a cost of 74 pesos per bag. Of course, there are other items that are needed, such as tiles for the floor, fixtures for a bathroom, lighting, etc., but thought a good idea to begin was with a “Buy a Bag of Cement” campaign. At this time many donations and commitments to do this have been received.

Our request to the friends and supporters of the library project is to commit to buying at least one bag of cement or mortero. For those of you who are still up North, the library committee would be more than happy to pay for any bags that you might like to purchase and you can reimburse us upon your return. We have attached two photos of work in progress. Click them to view larger size.

Calendars  have been ordered again this year and have arrived. A donation was received of stickers with the library logo to place on the calendar to remind folks that their purchase of the calendar benefits the library. The price is $120 pesos this year. The calendars will be available at several points of sale, such as Curves, Casa de Artesenia, Gringo's Book Store and other businesses will be contacted to ask if they will display and sell them for us. However, if you wish to place an order, please e-mail Rita at okollock@orcomm.net



The Zeta chapter of Beta Sigma Phi is made up of women from Bucerias and La Cruz. The sorority just completed a project bringing a new playground to a local school. For the story and photos, see them here.

Bucerias's main church, Nuestra Senora de la Paz, has a benefactor church in Michigan.  St. Hugo of the Hills’ financial support has brought a new Christian education wing, improved church facilities and in 2002, will also benefit the neediest families.   A group of residents will work with the Padre to develop a plan for new community supports.  

Help the Children A.C. runs a 'feed the children' program in 5 towns around the Bay, serving about 2400 meals a month to kids under 12.  It may also assist with basic costs of schooling & medical & dental necessities. The program has utilized excess food from local hotels for nearly 5 years; cash donations purchase staples to 'stretch' the hotels' contributions.  The program's well connected with the Centro de Salud and D.I.F. (Health Centre and Family Services) and able to refer children for more help. It's an official, registered non-profit organization (Asociacion Civil) & all workers are volunteers. 
Contact Cindy or Steve Norman at 329 298-9114, by  e mail wingnuts@pvnet.com.mx or Alejandra Cordoba at 329 298-0656 to find out more

Escuela de Las Estrellas in Mezcales is the municipality's first facility for 'special needs' CHILDREN.  The formally titled Centro de Atencion Multiple #12, is a joint project of several levels of government & the community. Children with physical, emotional & developmental needs are all welcome.  A volunteer committee adds its efforts to those of staff & parents & recently assisted in transportation costs for a 10 year old to go to Shriner's hospital in Galveston. 

A physician also donates medical assessments.  Just lately, he determined that Orquidia, who did not speak, needed only a very minor surgical procedure to free her tongue.  She is now working vigorously on strengthening exercises and vocalizes all day long.  Soon she will be speaking.  Interested in learning more or helping?  Call Ronnie Barker (329) 298-0053, or e-mail abmarine@pvnet.com.mx

The Friendship Club of La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, a new non-profit corporation, raises funds to help local children with medical problems & school related needs.  It is based at Philo's Restaurant/Music Studio, as are the fund-raising activities for a seniors' center.  Phone or write Philo for details. (329) 295-5068, Philo@philohayward.com  

Red Cross emergency services are on their way thanks to a local Red Cross committee, the Rotary Club of Nuevo Vallarta and the Ayuntamiento of Bahia de Banderas.  Land was donated by the municipality, materials and a pre-fab building came from individuals and companies.  A building is now in place.  Work continues to equip the emergency center.  President Mario Topete can be reached by phone or fax at 329 298-0312.

Nuevo Vallarta's Rotary Club is over3 years old and is very active. Red Cross services were the first project and there is an ambitious agenda for the future.  Meetings:  Wednesday mornings, 9 a.m., Club Marival, #501; new members welcome.  President Jorge Careaga J. can be reached at 322 297-0729

A group of animal lovers who sponsored the spay/neuter clinic in Nov are also having a fund raiser on Jan. 31st to raise the money for more clinics.  We have decided to call ourselves Legacy of Lobo in memory of a well-loved street dog who loved to body surf and was a town character.  Of course, the initials LOL also stand for lots of love for the animals.  For information  contact Val at 298-1013.

Women of Bahia de Banderas is a  group working on issues and needs common to the area. Many bus stop shelters were built in Bucerias and La Cruz with funds this group raised last year. Meetings are held every other Thursday of the month, 5:30 p.m. in the Salon Ejidal in Bucerias.

There are also groups and individuals working on special projects. 'Bubba and the Bottom Feeders' performs regularly at Pescador restaurant on the beach Sundays at 3 pm. during the winter months. 100% of all monies it receives, goes to provide basic food to impoverished families. If you would like to donate during the time they are not performing contact them at www.bottonfeeders.com

Every Christmas for the last 7 years, Arlene and Ron Tackett of Bucerias & their friends, have brought Santa, complete with gifts & candy to hundreds of children in Bucerias.

Marcel Gagnon and Ghislaine Carriere of Bucerias lead a campaign to brighten the center of town. With artist friends from Quebec, their neighbors in Bucerias and visitors, they have adorned the walls of houses, the footbridge and the school with original paintings.  It is a fascinating, international art show & this part of town looks great. 

The Centro de Salud (Health Center) in Bucerias is always in need of basic supplies.  Contributions can be made anytime at the Center or at Sandrina's Internet Café.  The Tsawwassan Rotary Club of B.C. provided uniforms and school supplies to students of local schools.  The kids are dressed like their school mates & can represent their school at special events.
 

The municipality's only library, Biblioteca Rey Nayar, welcomes kids.  The unflagging efforts of a core of volunteers, gives children access to books, puzzles, art materials and a computer in the tiny room beside the Ministerio Publico at the corner of Gonzalez & Mexico. More volunteers are needed as the Libary is open now on Saturday mornings and some Sunday afternoons.

There are ample opportunities for participating in helping to enrich the life of our community.  Bring your time, talents or 'stuff' with you when you come to visit. You'll have a great time getting to know our towns & residents.