Mexican folklore, mythology and local gossip are full of stories of cryptids, animals or plants whose existence has been suggested but has not been scientifically proven. Many of them have their origins in Aztec legend, still more were created when the Spanish arrived and some appeared in more recent times. 

A dramatic volley of joyful cohetes shatters the predawn calm in most Mexican villages on May 3. The barrage of booming skyrockets sounds just like a full-blown revolution to tourists; the initiated know it as the traditional announcement of the beginning of the Day of the Holy Cross, which is also the feast day of the Mexico’s abañiles (brick masons) and their apprentices and co-workers.

On top of the great accomplishments of the Operacion Compasion pet sterilization clinic held April 17-19 in San Juan Cosala, the sponsor organization truly lived up to its name in the heart-warming story  of Diana, an injured street dog that came out of the program in fine fettle and a new home to boot.

“Searching for Stiala Mata: Eradicating Smallpox in India,” the memoir written by semi-retired public health specialist and Ajijic resident Dr. Cornelia (Connie) Davis, is receiving a great deal of attention. 

Ray De Lange is headed to an intriguing and uncertain future. After nearly seven years ministering to English speakers in a church — English Fellowship of Guadalajara — that is supported by about 15 U.S. congregations, mostly Christian Reformed, De Lange and his wife Angie plan to focus on bringing the Christian message to Muslims in central Asia.