It’s practically upon us— Carnaval Mazatlan 2002— which for this year runs Feb. 7-12. A moveable feast based on the lunar calendar that dictates when Lent and Easter fall each year in Roman Catholic parts of the world, these dates so soon after the holidays are causing a mighty scramble. On top of that, there’s a whole new team in charge of Mazatlan’s so-called “maximum fiesta” this year. Roberto Osuna, the director of Codetur (the carnival’s organizing committee), was appointed shortly after the November election that brought a new mayor into office at City Hall. A gentle man who has had some previous experience with carnaval when he worked with the logistics of parades of the past, Osuna tells the Pacific Pearl that none of the city’s beloved Carnaval traditions will change while he is in charge. A “100 percent Mazatleco,” he says he feels he is fulfilling a promise to his city. He has a lot to live up to. The celebration of carnaval in Mazatlan goes back more than 100 years, and is deeply rooted in the local culture. Its observance here includes some unique features, such as family-oriented events and inclusion of awards for literature and poetry. In recent years a competition for painters was begun, named for the city’s best-known artist, Antonio Lopez Saenz. The theme Osuna has announced for Carnaval Mazatlan 2002—the third largest carnival celebration in the world—is “Pasion por los Carnavales,” which in English translates to “Crazy About Carnivals.” Osuna explains that the pageants and parade floats will salute carnivals around the world, with a special nod to Rio de Janeiro and New Orleans, the only two