Some of the current concerns here are about the aftermath of Hurricane Emily. The beach resorts south of Cancun are owned mostly by Spaniards, and they are clearing mangrove and pretending that the trees were knocked down by the hurricane. Another concern is about the extravagance of the wife of President Vicente Fox. One piece of her jewellery could feed 100 families 3 meals a day for 3 months. The legislature is considering cutting her allowance. When criminals are caught here, they are usually photographed with their weapons and whatever they stole. One woman who was trying to sell her two daughters, was photographed with them together with the 60-year-old customer. There seems to be more serious crime in the Chetumal area, however. In August one community, Solidaridad, is having a Back to School Fair. The town council, concerned about expenses caused by the hurricane and the high cost of preparing children for school, organized the fair. Free services include hair cut, immunizations, and medical checkups. Goods such as uniforms and school supplies, including back packs, are being offered at low prices. Best regards, (Signed) Anne K. Lowe (Ed. NOTE: Amandala is much pleased to hear from Annie K.)
