From the Publisher's Desk
A Funny Thing Happened …….
Every year my Christmas wish is that the people of Mazatlán in the poorer communities have a Christmas to remember. I am always heartened by the effort of charitable organizations in our city who try to make this happen. Under privileged families, whole communities and particularly children are thought of at this time of year. However, those wavering on the subsistence poverty line are not as visible and, therefore, receive less attention.
 
I didn´t consider this obvious fact until a funny thing happened when I went to the police station recently to contest a ticket I received for not wearing a motorcycle helmet. Okay, I was guilty, but my dander was up because probably 30% of motorcyclists in Mazatlán ride without helmets, so why me? But that´s another story.
 
When I explained my concern over the ticket to a senior superintendent, he told me that due to the lack of police patrol cars and motorcycles only 1 in 40 traffic infractions are ticketed. I was in the wrong place at the wrong time. We went on to discuss the pervasive “mordita” problem, whereby a private donation to the ticketing police officer cancels out any legal penalty. “Ah,” he said, “we are trying hard to erase corruption, but it is a struggle.” He went on to explain that the average policeman´s wage is 2,900 pesos per month, and even he, as a superintendent, receives just 3,900 pesos. “And look around,” he continued. “Today is payday. Usually the office is full of police collecting their salary. But today there is no money to pay them.” Or much else, it appeared. His office was shabby, badly in need of paint, and just barely a working environment.
 
I drove home wondering how a family can live on approximately $290US a month, even in Mexico. Although the police, like all employees in Mexico, receive an “aguinaldo” or Christmas bonus which equates to an extra two weeks to three months pay, daily living the rest of the year must be a struggle. Not only does the officer have to pay for food, rent, transportation, and school supplies for his family, but also his own uniform right down to the badge. Wouldn´t it be a good idea for someone to hold a Charity Ball or Golf Tournament, with proceeds designated to help pay for police uniforms? Just a thought.
 
So I have revised my Christmas wish this year. I wish for a decent standard of living wage for everyone, and an entrenched social system that gives a hand-up to those who want to improve their lives.
 
Michael J. Veselik
Publisher