Los Torres Meeting 23 de junio del 2010
Where: Chucha’s house
When: Wed, June 23, 12 noon
Who: Chela, Holly and Saul Juarez (Cedesa), 26-28 people of Los Torres including 6 men, the rest women, and many children
When we arrived, on time (12 noon), only three people were present. Evidently, there was confusion about the day since June has five Wednesdays, most people thought the assembly was next week, the last Wednesday of the month. We waited a half hour then sent the three people present out to inform the others that the meeting was that day.
By 1 p.m. there were about 20 people, when Saul did the roll call (Concha was absent), and others came by later. Out of over fifty people who are on the roll, there are less than half now attending the assemblies.
Why? Because the cistern project is nearly finished. Chela said that the
assembly is not just about building cisterns, it’s about building community … a topic we would take up after choosing a coordinator, note-taker, and establishing the agenda for the day:
-
Cistern building
Rotoplases
Visit by the Presidencia
Petitions: road, bridge and dry toilets
Invitation to CEDESA
Chela started off the discussion about building community by asking when was the first assembly in Los Torres with CEDESA? Various answers, last year, the year before; after some discussion, the general agreement was that it was October 2008. So we have been meeting for about a year and a half. What has happened in the past 18 months?
Many people chimed in: Now we have water, we harvest rain from our roofs, we know how to make cisterns. We have learned to work together and get along better, talk among ourselves, share ideas and work. With the assemblies we have learned how to talk better, before we were embarrassed to say anything, now we are more confident.
Chela explained that she learned how to speak in public by visiting communities and
participating in assemblies, and now she’s not afraid to talk to the bishop or the president.
What else have you learned?
Chucha, who is participating in the traspatio workshop said she has learned about covering the ground with leaves from the trees to retain humidity, separating organic from inorganic waste.
We are learning to grow our own food.
We’ve learned the difference between clean and contaminated water, using the cistern water for drinking and cooking.
Elena gave a very moving testimony: at first she was very interested in the assemblies and the cistern project, but when her husband left her, she got depressed because she was shut up in her house, not going out and not seeing anyone. Then someone told her that there was going to be a second phase, and she started going to the assemblies again and joined a mutual-aid group. She now feels happy to be participating, and that she has a cistern that she built with the help of
others, whom she too has helped.
Chela asked Elena to write up her testimony, that it is important that people learn and gain a lot when they are involved in community development, not just technical knowledge and getting things, but also feelings, solidarity and the benefits of working together.
Aurelia agreed that with the community assembly, you learn a new way of thinking. If you are closed up in your house, your problems make you sick, you need to let things out, to share your problems. If you work together with other people you can solve your problems.
Ofelia said that when families get together, in groups, you are united and stronger. It is important to share, to convivir (personally interact), work together, not only on the cisterns but for other projects, learning to develop your mind, your spirit and your feelings.
If you’re closed up in your house by yourself, you don’t learn anything.
Chela asked if we should stop having assemblies after the cisterns are finished. No …
Ofelia said that they still have a lot to learn.
Elena asked if there is a possibility of another phase, because now her relatives are interested.
Chela said they should start a new list.
Others mentioned the road, dry toilets, gardens, health issues.
Holly said that Los Torres is the pioneer in the region, that the experiences here are valuable to others in other communities. We hope to have a regional meeting when the other communities that are finishing up their cisterns are done, probably in August.
Chela took up the theme, drawing a map of the communities that are making cisterns now, and that have sent representatives to assemblies to inquire about community development, not only cisterns but also dry toilets, traspatio, health issues.
First, the cistern project started in Los Torres: then Montecillo, Cruz del Palmar and Vivienda de Arriba (currently finishing their cisterns); Capaderillo and Tierra Blanca, where we are meeting at community asemblies to plan cistern projects; San Isidro Capaderillo, La Tinaja, La Aurora, Vivienda de Abajo, Guerrero, Don Juan, Ojo Zarco.
People were proud of this, saying: All this started in Los Torres! We were the first!
Sabina said: They say, “Sell me some water from your cistern” and I say, “No, I won’t sell it you … I’ll give it to you!” We want to help other people learn how to make their own cisterns and have good water.
After thanking Chucha for loaning her house for the assemblies for all this time, Chela mentioned again that Los Torres, given its importance in the region, needs a public meeting place where they hold the assemblies, bring visitors, teach people from other communities.
Saul mentioned that there is still a lot to learn, and gave as an example questions of health – he passed around the book “Tu Cuerpo” that is being used in the Organizer’s Workshop (Taller de Promotores).
To move on to the items on the agenda:
I.
Cisterns (built in mutual-aid groups from steel and cement):
Group I – four are completed and storing rainwater, two are nearly done – Doña Piedad
and Dimas/Filomena. One member of the group is not working because his wife died, the
others are helping to finish the two remaining.
Group II – all are finished and storing rainwater
Group III – All are finished except one (Gilberto). Nicolasa says that they started
working together two weeks ago, and that’s why they are now nearly done.
II.
Rotoplas (black plastic cisterns purchased from Talego):
José Alvarado – with group #1
Alejandro Gonzales – with group #2
Consuelo Huerta – with group #3
José Alvarado’s roof needs to be covered because it is made of tejas (rounded clay tiles)which get very dirty because animals make nests in it and it is difficult to clean. Holly was asked to inquire with Rotary if there are funds for approximately 5 square meters of lamina (corrugated sheet metal).
Of the three rotoplases, each one is missing a tube/faucet. Holly will investigate with Talego.
III.
Visit by the Mayor
Luci did not come – she says that another appointment came up and sent a representative.
Chucha said that they gave her a letter apologizing, but everyone is unhappy that
the Mayor was not present at the event the the whole community prepared for her.
The three petitions were presented to the representative.
IV.
Petitions
Road: Alejandro delivered it to the Presidencia and got it signed and sealed by the
secretary of the office of the mayor. He showed the copy he got.
Bridge: Aurelia did not make a copy, delivered the original to the Mayor’s rep
Dry toilets: Elena did not make a copy, delivered the original to the Mayor’s rep
Priorities were established and committees assigned: the road (Alejandro, Miguel and
Matilde, with support-group Maria Soria, Carmela, Chucha and Andrea) and the dry
toilets (Elena, Ofelia, Aurelia, Magdalena and Hilaria).
Alejandro said that when he was collecting signatures, some people complained that
he is not ejiditario nor small property owner in Los Torres (he lives in San Miguel); he says that he would happily hand over the petition for the road to someone else if that’s necessary. No one spoke up to take over the good job he has been doing.
Saul said that it is now necessary for any petition from any community to be signed
by the Delegado and Community Council in order to be considered by the municipal
government.
A long discussion ensued regarding the change of delegado in Los Torres. Chucha
explained that there was a community-wide meeting called to chose the new delegado
but only 12 people came. A person named Samuel Garcia was chosen, with Rafael Cruz,
Alberto Morales and Rafael Barranca as council.
The question of legitimacy was raised, in terms of how many people are making these
decisions, and Saul said that the delegado and council has to be registered at the Mayor’s office. There is still time to change if there is disagreement.
Elena said that everyone had a chance to go to the meeting and that the people who didn’t go should respect the decision of those who did.
Chela suggested that people decide at the next assembly if the decision about the new
Delegado still stands or if they want to call for a more representative vote. She said that is the problem when there is no community assembly.
Miguel said that these assemblies don’t represent a majority.
Ofelia said that the only time that the whole community participates is during
Opportunidades meetings (government-sponsored “give-away” program).
Chela said that if people want democracy, they should make sure that there is a majority of families represented at the next assembly in order to decide about the delegado and community council.
V.
Invitation to CEDESA
On July 10, 11 a.m. there will be a celebration at CEDESA of “rescuing traditional
food of the region” (nopal, quelites, verdolagas, etc.) There will be people from many different communities where CEDESA has been working, and a reflection upon regional environmental issues and community development.
Several people expressed interest in renting a bus to go from Los Torres to CEDESA.
Holly and Saul will help to coordinate this.
The next assembly will be on July 28, at 11 a.m. (one hour earlier than usual, since there is another meeting scheduled in the afternoon).
The meeting was adjourned at 4:15 p.m.
This report was kindly recorded by Holly Yasui - Thanks Holly!!
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
10th report of the SMA Midday Rotary Montecillo de Nieto Water Project
Record of Event pg 1 of 1
10th report of the SMA Midday Rotary Montecillo de Nieto Water Project
Where: Montecillo de Nieto Kindergarten
When: 16.06.10 12.00-2.15
Who: Elena & Laura (Rotary), more than 35 adults, - mini assembly
Walter, Loy, Doris, Enrique, Gordon, Ivar, - Rotarian Guests
Irma Rosado – NGO liaison – representing the presidencia.
Purpose: mini assembly & fiesta/inauguration of completion of project
There was some confusion about the planned assembly today.
The women had arrived early with their food contribution to the fiesta which had been hurriedly arranged the previous Saturday with Elena & the community. Chela/Cedesa was unfortunately not able to make it today.
The Presidencia & Rotarians were invited to attend the inauguration at the kinder.
Irma Rosado, the NGO liaison attended. As did the above Rotarian guests. (apologies if I have missed anyone, I did not write it down on the day)
The women were all ready & waiting as they had understood the fiesta was to begin at 12, we understood the assembly would take place first & then the assembly.
We had a mini assembly. As we have come in under budget & completed more cisterns than planned for, we have sufficient funding for at least 3 more cisterns. There were 3 people on the list to be part of phase II & so the community has agreed to assist these people build their cisterns (since they were not present at the train the trainer/pilot cistern build at the Kinder.
The names of the additional beneficiaries are
Maria Victoria Palmar Cadena (4 in family)
Censo Pena (3 in young family)
Maria Pena (sister of Censo, & 4 in young family)
(a 4th person Consuelo Pastor had not been contacted & so not included).
I put the question to the community who would mentor/help these new people, since they had received no training?
Group 1 – Maria Palmar – volunteers – Saleta, Enedina, Soledad (will all assist with the weaving of the malla) Contact person – Enedina 415 102 0593
Group 2 - Censo Pena – volunteers – Maria Elena, Griselda & Alicia (will all assist with the weaving of the malla) Contact person – Lorena Ramirez 415 109 1464
Group 3. – Maria Pena – same volunteers & contact person as Group 2.
The wire & malla will be delivered first, & on completion of the weaving the cement will be delivered.
The community (Eva) will order the sand.
The other 27 cisterns (including 1 @ school, 1 @ kinder & 1 @ church) have all been completed.
26 originally budgeted, built 1 extra, now adding extra 3, there will be 30 in total.
John Doherty has kindly offered to make payments for the extra cisterns as Laura will be in NZ for the next month.
The assembly concluded & the inauguration/celebration began.
The children performed a dance, thank you speeches were made, & congratulations were extended to the community on a fine effort & the team that made it possible, the ribbon was cut on the cistern & the feasting began.
I left early to attend a planning session at Cedesa in Dolores Hidalgo – the celebrations were still in full force when I left at 2.15.
Next Assembly in Montecillo de Nieto 21 July 12pm at Kinder
(Report respectfully submitted by Laura Stewart)
10th report of the SMA Midday Rotary Montecillo de Nieto Water Project
Where: Montecillo de Nieto Kindergarten
When: 16.06.10 12.00-2.15
Who: Elena & Laura (Rotary), more than 35 adults, - mini assembly
Walter, Loy, Doris, Enrique, Gordon, Ivar, - Rotarian Guests
Irma Rosado – NGO liaison – representing the presidencia.
Purpose: mini assembly & fiesta/inauguration of completion of project
There was some confusion about the planned assembly today.
The women had arrived early with their food contribution to the fiesta which had been hurriedly arranged the previous Saturday with Elena & the community. Chela/Cedesa was unfortunately not able to make it today.
The Presidencia & Rotarians were invited to attend the inauguration at the kinder.
Irma Rosado, the NGO liaison attended. As did the above Rotarian guests. (apologies if I have missed anyone, I did not write it down on the day)
The women were all ready & waiting as they had understood the fiesta was to begin at 12, we understood the assembly would take place first & then the assembly.
We had a mini assembly. As we have come in under budget & completed more cisterns than planned for, we have sufficient funding for at least 3 more cisterns. There were 3 people on the list to be part of phase II & so the community has agreed to assist these people build their cisterns (since they were not present at the train the trainer/pilot cistern build at the Kinder.
The names of the additional beneficiaries are
Maria Victoria Palmar Cadena (4 in family)
Censo Pena (3 in young family)
Maria Pena (sister of Censo, & 4 in young family)
(a 4th person Consuelo Pastor had not been contacted & so not included).
I put the question to the community who would mentor/help these new people, since they had received no training?
Group 1 – Maria Palmar – volunteers – Saleta, Enedina, Soledad (will all assist with the weaving of the malla) Contact person – Enedina 415 102 0593
Group 2 - Censo Pena – volunteers – Maria Elena, Griselda & Alicia (will all assist with the weaving of the malla) Contact person – Lorena Ramirez 415 109 1464
Group 3. – Maria Pena – same volunteers & contact person as Group 2.
The wire & malla will be delivered first, & on completion of the weaving the cement will be delivered.
The community (Eva) will order the sand.
The other 27 cisterns (including 1 @ school, 1 @ kinder & 1 @ church) have all been completed.
26 originally budgeted, built 1 extra, now adding extra 3, there will be 30 in total.
John Doherty has kindly offered to make payments for the extra cisterns as Laura will be in NZ for the next month.
The assembly concluded & the inauguration/celebration began.
The children performed a dance, thank you speeches were made, & congratulations were extended to the community on a fine effort & the team that made it possible, the ribbon was cut on the cistern & the feasting began.
I left early to attend a planning session at Cedesa in Dolores Hidalgo – the celebrations were still in full force when I left at 2.15.
Next Assembly in Montecillo de Nieto 21 July 12pm at Kinder
(Report respectfully submitted by Laura Stewart)
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
7th Mtg of the SMA Midday Rotary Cruz del Palmar Water Project
Record of Event pg 1 of 4
7th Mtg of the SMA Midday Rotary Cruz del Palmar Water Project
Where: Cruz del Palmar Community (40 mins from SMA)
When: Wed June 09.06.10 11.40 – 2pm
Who: Chela, (Cedesa), Elena & Laura (Rotary), 27 adults incl 7 men, + 11kids, 1 dog,
Purpose: Review construction of individual cisterns
There were some new people here today so we introduced ourselves.
Chela called for proposed Co-ordinator for the day.
Analaura was proposed.
Analaura called the roll.
The 4 new people at today’s meeting are
Catalina (was at 1st meeting)
Hermelinda Ramirez
Maria Dolores
Theresa Salazar
(2 are from the other side of the river & 2 in Centro)
1 woman attended first meeting but then had to go to GTO, she is interested though.)
Elena said a few words in personal prayer before we began, about protecting the environment & being open to receive good words…
Chela asked why are you involved?
They all said they were interested in this project.
Chela reiterated that participation in meetings is compulsory to plan the process, discuss issues eg, not letting cats onto the roofs to keep them clean.
The problem of cats on roofs was discussed, apparently it is common for neighbours cats to go on roofs & poo. I suggested a slingshot, or a water bottle with vinegar in! They all laughed.
Elena suggested a sandbox, & educating them to use it.
They all agreed Amigos de los Animales would be welcome to neuter the animals.
Elena knows the organisation & mentioned getting in touch with them.
This is an important item to discuss as keeping the roofs clean is a very important part of the maintenance of the system. If you have a plague of cats & dogs maybe you need to take control & responsibility for this, they can not be allowed to breed randomly. Dog & cat faeces are very polluting & contaminating.
Action: Elena asked for the name & contact of Imelda Ramirez Ignatio Allende #70, ph 415 119 4016, as her dog has a problem with “sarne” (mange) & Elena offered to contact her vet to see what can be done.
There is no vet available near Cruz del Palmar – a mobile vet clinic could be a good idea!
“often no Doctor here, let alone a vet!”
Record of Event pg 2 of 4
Review of Project
The first 12 cisterns are all completed.
Materials for the rest of the cisterns have been received (as of yesterday – cement delivered).
All the wires are woven & cylinders have been created, so only cement needs to be applied.
There was a discussion about piping/pvc, they are missing
Codos 45 3” x 2 (from first delivery)
Tees 3” x 21 (2nd delivery)
Codos 45 3” x 10 (2nd delivery)
Tapones incercion 3” x 8 (2nd delivery)
Laura checked invoices & discovered that although the correct amount was ordered, for some reason the invoice was for less than was ordered. An additional order was since paid & will be collected on 15th June.
Some of the cisterns are “crooked”
There was a discussion as some of the cisterns are not perfectly straight. This is because they did not adhere to the training exactly.
After much discussion, & because it is only aesthetic it was decided it is not a problem, & to call them “rustic” or “organic” examples.
Co-incidentally Jose Miguel Cruz (one of the Los Torres team of experts) was visiting the clinic across the road so Elena went to see him to ask him to come & chat with the meeting.
5 cisterns are slightly crooked. It was decided the groups would benefit from an additional 2 day’s training/consultation by Rafa, 1 to visit the extra 7 people in group 4, & 1 for any other doubts.
Ana from Group 4 will call Rafa & co-ordinate with the other groups.
Chela explained it is important for them to do their best on construction as these examples are seen by the rest of the community(s).
Jose Miguel arrived with Chucha & explained the process required to ensure the cisterns are straight & not on a lean.
Including
• Place the top on carefully
• Measure the distance from the centre to the edge with a piece of string & make sure it is the same all round (this will centre it)
• Don’t bend or lean on the wire form because it is bendable, & you don’t want this.
Everyone was asked if they are clear on what they need to do now, & all agreed.
Question – will it affect the water – no – it’s purely aesthetic.
Miguel gave Ana Rafa’s contact details for the extra 2 days work agreed.
Record of Event pg 3 of 4
Group co-operation
There was discussion about working in groups, many are not co-operating. Chela talked about Montecillo de Nieto, & how well they were working in harmony.
Chela - You need to decide on the hours that will work for all of you & then stick to that commitment. You need to respect this & it’s in your hands to decide between yourselves. It affects you all, when you don’t want to work in groups it wont work, it’s a principal point of this project, to learn to work co-operatively in groups & respect arrangements/agreements.
Chela – from my perspective if you can’t respect agreements we don’t or can’t continue to work in CdP.
There is a lack of respect & you need to work on this.
Group 4 in particular needs to get together to get things organised, if you agree an hour to begin, then be there.
In some groups they are each house that they work on is providing food & drink for the ones working, so they are all naturally taking turns at catering.
Doubts & questions
One of the women mentioned that Los Torres cisterns get called “balls” but a woman asked her the other day
“what are all those Monos blancos (white monkeys!) popping up in Cruz del Palmar!)
Everyone thought this was pretty funny.
What is the next time for a visit, & what will we cover?
Next visit will be 14th July, covering maintenance & function of the cisterns when the rains arrive.
There was a brief discussion re the water alternatives eg, solar distillation, for example this would be useful on years when it is dry & there is no rainwater. Chela explained that Cedesa has workshops on these & it would be worthwhile for a few to attend.
Brief discussion re toilets, some have septic systems.
Discussion about possibility of Phase II in Cruz del Palmar
It is interesting to note that there are waves of interest in a community, we have now worked in enough to see a pattern.
1st lots of interest in case they miss out, then fewer return when they realise they have to do the work & are not receiving a hand out, then there is a bit of a delay while the project gets underway & construction begins, & then once the first few are finished, a new wave of interest is created as the later adopters finally “get it” & see what we were talking about!
There are 4 extra people today but Chela invited them to start a list of 2nd Phase people, knowing that money will take a while & they need to work to achieve this.
There are a couple of newly weds interested, but they thought they had to have a family first before they qualified, we explained no, just willing to do the work & participate.
Record of Event pg 4 of 4
Chela – Cisterns are not a “fashion item” they are a resolution to a grave problem…
There was more discussion about people wanting them but not being prepared to work for them, one woman pointed out to these people that it is well worth it, since it is there for the future for their family, “yes it’s a lot of work & commitment & effort, but then the solution is in place from then on…”
With this safe drinking water the health of your family will improve & there will be fewer visits to the clinic, & health will be back in your hands.
“If people have problem attending the meetings then they’re going to have more problems to construct their cistern”
Chela - really it’s a small investment of time compared with the solution it provides, investment in the cistern, but also investment in your community to grow together, valuable learning time, as well as the cistern/water solution for life.
Chela – we came here today because we know the issue & wish to resolve it, we are here to help, a few days of your life in return for healthy drinking water for future generations! It’s a bargain!
Some people have been working from 6pm to Midnight, it’s cooler then – we joked that this might be why some are crooked, they’ve been falling asleep while they work…
People were invited to attend the next assembly if they are interested in phase II.
Next Assembly Cruz del Palmar July 14 at 11am
PS Forgot to add at the end of the Cruz assembly we were approached by a young woman with a daughter of about 5 needing medical check up of a skull operation she had had, we contacted Patro Nato Pro Ninos (the medical NGO here) & made the referral.
We were also asked for assistance for uniforms for a girls soccer team, Yolande's daughters are in a team.
Elena caught up with some others from the team in Los Torres, & asked them to get pricing for us... we intend to add this to the list for our mini-committee of hands on/more immediate projects.
We then left & went to the house of Jesus, (one of the group of 7 extra cisterns) he had invited us to stay for Comida.
His house was amazing, full of inherited furniture from his grandmother & we were treated to a very elegant lunch (he used to be a caterer), spaghetti alfredo, chicken with capsicum cheese & mushrooms with fresh fruit desert, we then were toured his animals, horse, turkeys, about 7 million chickens, 1 peacock, 2 pheasants, & a blue bird I didn’t recognise, we also got to see the feathers off the chicken we had just eaten for lunch as proof of the freshness!! Ahhh Mexico – full of surprises.
Then we headed off with full bellies to Capaderillo for the next assembly!
Report respectfully submitted by Laura Stewart
7th Mtg of the SMA Midday Rotary Cruz del Palmar Water Project
Where: Cruz del Palmar Community (40 mins from SMA)
When: Wed June 09.06.10 11.40 – 2pm
Who: Chela, (Cedesa), Elena & Laura (Rotary), 27 adults incl 7 men, + 11kids, 1 dog,
Purpose: Review construction of individual cisterns
There were some new people here today so we introduced ourselves.
Chela called for proposed Co-ordinator for the day.
Analaura was proposed.
Analaura called the roll.
The 4 new people at today’s meeting are
Catalina (was at 1st meeting)
Hermelinda Ramirez
Maria Dolores
Theresa Salazar
(2 are from the other side of the river & 2 in Centro)
1 woman attended first meeting but then had to go to GTO, she is interested though.)
Elena said a few words in personal prayer before we began, about protecting the environment & being open to receive good words…
Chela asked why are you involved?
They all said they were interested in this project.
Chela reiterated that participation in meetings is compulsory to plan the process, discuss issues eg, not letting cats onto the roofs to keep them clean.
The problem of cats on roofs was discussed, apparently it is common for neighbours cats to go on roofs & poo. I suggested a slingshot, or a water bottle with vinegar in! They all laughed.
Elena suggested a sandbox, & educating them to use it.
They all agreed Amigos de los Animales would be welcome to neuter the animals.
Elena knows the organisation & mentioned getting in touch with them.
This is an important item to discuss as keeping the roofs clean is a very important part of the maintenance of the system. If you have a plague of cats & dogs maybe you need to take control & responsibility for this, they can not be allowed to breed randomly. Dog & cat faeces are very polluting & contaminating.
Action: Elena asked for the name & contact of Imelda Ramirez Ignatio Allende #70, ph 415 119 4016, as her dog has a problem with “sarne” (mange) & Elena offered to contact her vet to see what can be done.
There is no vet available near Cruz del Palmar – a mobile vet clinic could be a good idea!
“often no Doctor here, let alone a vet!”
Record of Event pg 2 of 4
Review of Project
The first 12 cisterns are all completed.
Materials for the rest of the cisterns have been received (as of yesterday – cement delivered).
All the wires are woven & cylinders have been created, so only cement needs to be applied.
There was a discussion about piping/pvc, they are missing
Codos 45 3” x 2 (from first delivery)
Tees 3” x 21 (2nd delivery)
Codos 45 3” x 10 (2nd delivery)
Tapones incercion 3” x 8 (2nd delivery)
Laura checked invoices & discovered that although the correct amount was ordered, for some reason the invoice was for less than was ordered. An additional order was since paid & will be collected on 15th June.
Some of the cisterns are “crooked”
There was a discussion as some of the cisterns are not perfectly straight. This is because they did not adhere to the training exactly.
After much discussion, & because it is only aesthetic it was decided it is not a problem, & to call them “rustic” or “organic” examples.
Co-incidentally Jose Miguel Cruz (one of the Los Torres team of experts) was visiting the clinic across the road so Elena went to see him to ask him to come & chat with the meeting.
5 cisterns are slightly crooked. It was decided the groups would benefit from an additional 2 day’s training/consultation by Rafa, 1 to visit the extra 7 people in group 4, & 1 for any other doubts.
Ana from Group 4 will call Rafa & co-ordinate with the other groups.
Chela explained it is important for them to do their best on construction as these examples are seen by the rest of the community(s).
Jose Miguel arrived with Chucha & explained the process required to ensure the cisterns are straight & not on a lean.
Including
• Place the top on carefully
• Measure the distance from the centre to the edge with a piece of string & make sure it is the same all round (this will centre it)
• Don’t bend or lean on the wire form because it is bendable, & you don’t want this.
Everyone was asked if they are clear on what they need to do now, & all agreed.
Question – will it affect the water – no – it’s purely aesthetic.
Miguel gave Ana Rafa’s contact details for the extra 2 days work agreed.
Record of Event pg 3 of 4
Group co-operation
There was discussion about working in groups, many are not co-operating. Chela talked about Montecillo de Nieto, & how well they were working in harmony.
Chela - You need to decide on the hours that will work for all of you & then stick to that commitment. You need to respect this & it’s in your hands to decide between yourselves. It affects you all, when you don’t want to work in groups it wont work, it’s a principal point of this project, to learn to work co-operatively in groups & respect arrangements/agreements.
Chela – from my perspective if you can’t respect agreements we don’t or can’t continue to work in CdP.
There is a lack of respect & you need to work on this.
Group 4 in particular needs to get together to get things organised, if you agree an hour to begin, then be there.
In some groups they are each house that they work on is providing food & drink for the ones working, so they are all naturally taking turns at catering.
Doubts & questions
One of the women mentioned that Los Torres cisterns get called “balls” but a woman asked her the other day
“what are all those Monos blancos (white monkeys!) popping up in Cruz del Palmar!)
Everyone thought this was pretty funny.
What is the next time for a visit, & what will we cover?
Next visit will be 14th July, covering maintenance & function of the cisterns when the rains arrive.
There was a brief discussion re the water alternatives eg, solar distillation, for example this would be useful on years when it is dry & there is no rainwater. Chela explained that Cedesa has workshops on these & it would be worthwhile for a few to attend.
Brief discussion re toilets, some have septic systems.
Discussion about possibility of Phase II in Cruz del Palmar
It is interesting to note that there are waves of interest in a community, we have now worked in enough to see a pattern.
1st lots of interest in case they miss out, then fewer return when they realise they have to do the work & are not receiving a hand out, then there is a bit of a delay while the project gets underway & construction begins, & then once the first few are finished, a new wave of interest is created as the later adopters finally “get it” & see what we were talking about!
There are 4 extra people today but Chela invited them to start a list of 2nd Phase people, knowing that money will take a while & they need to work to achieve this.
There are a couple of newly weds interested, but they thought they had to have a family first before they qualified, we explained no, just willing to do the work & participate.
Record of Event pg 4 of 4
Chela – Cisterns are not a “fashion item” they are a resolution to a grave problem…
There was more discussion about people wanting them but not being prepared to work for them, one woman pointed out to these people that it is well worth it, since it is there for the future for their family, “yes it’s a lot of work & commitment & effort, but then the solution is in place from then on…”
With this safe drinking water the health of your family will improve & there will be fewer visits to the clinic, & health will be back in your hands.
“If people have problem attending the meetings then they’re going to have more problems to construct their cistern”
Chela - really it’s a small investment of time compared with the solution it provides, investment in the cistern, but also investment in your community to grow together, valuable learning time, as well as the cistern/water solution for life.
Chela – we came here today because we know the issue & wish to resolve it, we are here to help, a few days of your life in return for healthy drinking water for future generations! It’s a bargain!
Some people have been working from 6pm to Midnight, it’s cooler then – we joked that this might be why some are crooked, they’ve been falling asleep while they work…
People were invited to attend the next assembly if they are interested in phase II.
Next Assembly Cruz del Palmar July 14 at 11am
PS Forgot to add at the end of the Cruz assembly we were approached by a young woman with a daughter of about 5 needing medical check up of a skull operation she had had, we contacted Patro Nato Pro Ninos (the medical NGO here) & made the referral.
We were also asked for assistance for uniforms for a girls soccer team, Yolande's daughters are in a team.
Elena caught up with some others from the team in Los Torres, & asked them to get pricing for us... we intend to add this to the list for our mini-committee of hands on/more immediate projects.
We then left & went to the house of Jesus, (one of the group of 7 extra cisterns) he had invited us to stay for Comida.
His house was amazing, full of inherited furniture from his grandmother & we were treated to a very elegant lunch (he used to be a caterer), spaghetti alfredo, chicken with capsicum cheese & mushrooms with fresh fruit desert, we then were toured his animals, horse, turkeys, about 7 million chickens, 1 peacock, 2 pheasants, & a blue bird I didn’t recognise, we also got to see the feathers off the chicken we had just eaten for lunch as proof of the freshness!! Ahhh Mexico – full of surprises.
Then we headed off with full bellies to Capaderillo for the next assembly!
Report respectfully submitted by Laura Stewart
5th Mtg of the SMA Midday Rotary Capaderillo potential water Project
Record of Event pg 1 of 3
5th Mtg of the SMA Midday Rotary Capaderillo potential water Project
Where: Capaderillo Primary School - classroom
When: Wed 9th June 3pm – 5.30
Who: Chela (Cedesa), Elena & Laura (Rotary), 54 adults + 4 men (outside listening through the classroom windows!), + 4 kids
Purpose: To plan the next step of the project.
When we arrived there was a big group already awaiting us in the classroom & several more people crammed in to this full classroom.
There were 22 people from neighbouring Vivienda de Abajo (also called Vivienda Urbana) coming to see how they could be included in the project.
There was also a woman from neighbouring Viviendilla (basically the same neighbourhood but a little further over).
3 people were from La Aurora (they had attended the assembly in Vivienda de Arriba & were invited today.
Vivienda Urbana has approx. 40-50 families & a primary school.
Viviendilla has approx. 20-30 families, & share primary with Cienegita.
La Aurora has approx. 10 families.
There were 36 people attending from Capaderillo.
Introductions
Chela, Elena & Laura
We began working with Los Torres 18ths ago & have since worked in CdP, MdN, VdArriba, & are starting work in Tierra Blanca.
San Isidro Capadero, La Aurora & La Tinaja have also initiated contact.
Chela – why are we here?
Vivienda woman “ we are getting together a group of people interested in constructing cisterns to catch water during the rains”
“ I am interested in this project & would like to learn more”
“I am here for the same reason, hopefully I can come here to see if we can get help with our water situation”
“the teacher invited us to attend if we were interested”
Chela – why capture water?
“because the water here is contaminated & the water from the rain is safe to drink”
“because the water coming from the tap has chloro in it?”
“we have wells but not for drinking water, just for domestic use”
“the wells are from 16- 30mtrs deep” (30 mtrs in Vivienda de Abajo)
Chela – who adds chloro to their pozo water? – no-one
Chela – what are the contaminants?
“sodio” – why is salt bad for you, bad for blood, arteries, kidneys & heart.
Why do you have damaged teeth? “from the water”
What in the water? “saro?” – no.
“fluoride” yes – it affects your teeth & other parts of your body, bones & the brain & all major organs.
What other dangerous minerals exist in the water? Arsenic – causes problems with circulation, cancer & other illnesses.
Chela In Cruz del Palmar there is manganese too. These minerals exist in the water & then contaminate your body, not just affecting your health, but the health of your kids & grandkids.
The problem exists in this region, it is naturally occurring & there are a few people working to resolve this, from Cedesa & Rotary.
Record of Event pg 2 of 3
Rotary provided the funds to provide the solution in MdN, LT, CdP & VdAriiba, $$$ for materials, & training in construction & organization.
The next project – here in Capaderillo is being funded by the green fund from the Ecology department, that’s why we’re here today, to plan for this project, & also look at the possibility of opening up the opportunity for other communities.
Elena – these projects multiply the force/strength, when we work together we achieve more. Plant a seed in the dark & nothing happens, with light & care the tree will grow fruit. Through these projects you will learn integration & organization.
Chela – these communities have a lot in common, your kids go to the same schools, & use the same communal spaces, church & soccer pitches. It makes sense to work together on this, since you have so many things in common, & you all have contaminated water too. If you’re interested we can resolve the issue of resources.
Phase I is for Capaderillo a few Vivienda de Abajo & 1 Guerrero family.
Phase II could be Vivienda de Abajo & Capaderillo, (& possibly La Aurora – although it is approx. 1 hr away by foot. It I closer to Don Juan with approx. 30 families, & Guerrero with approx. 40 families)
One of the women later said, she believes Guerrero is unlikely to want to co-operate, they are known not to be joiners (Ecology dept had said the same about one of their projects).
The measure is of the people with good conscience who wish to commit.
Chela suggested
Change the meeting in Los Torres on the 28th July from 12 to 11am, so we can visit Aurora at 3pm.
First meeting in Aurora/Don Juan/Guerrero to be 28th July at 3pm – Aurora will invite the other communities)
Chela asked about phase II for this Capaderillo/Vivienda de Abajo, I explained we have funding agreed but have yet to write the exact Matching Grant so would be good to have specific details, Chela asked the phase II people to go outside & write their list of names.
The list is to include name of family & number of kids.
Maria Salud & Anamaria will co-ordinate the list of phase II people.
One woman asked about her single daughter who has 1 child, if she is able to participate & help then yes, add her to the list.
The phase II people left the classroom & the men listening through the windows then had space to come in & sit down, these were Phase I people. We continued with Phase I planning.
Phase I called the roll – 5 missing from the roll.
Question, can someone represent someone else in assemblies, yes, 1 person from each family.
Update re timing/schedule
The cheque was promised by Ecology on the 26th May, but we are still waiting. Jesus has been up to the presidencia several times but still no joy. Now they have come up with additional information they require, we suspect the cash is not currently available, but will let them know asap, & will spring into action as soon as we have the cash in hand.
Record of Event pg 3 of 3
2 people from Phase I have said they are unable to work,
Pulcheria, & Ema.
This was discussed & the groups all agreed to remove them from the project & open their slots to 2 people from Phase II who are able to work.
Joel “available & willing” (in his own words) joined group 1 (with their blessing)
Maricela Joined group 6 (in place of Pulcheria).
Chela asked if all groups were clear & co-ordinators were clear on their groups – answer was Si & Si.
The group requested a cistern for the primary in Guerrero (many of their children go there) & also Secondaria.
We suggested these options would be ideal for pilot for phase II.
Re: materials, all of the malla (mesh) & wire, will be delivered for all 38 families at the same time so all can commence work at the same time, once all are completed to the cylinder stage the balance of the materials will be delivered.
This is to prevent the issue of people not co-operating until their materials arrive…
The list for Phase II was handed to me – it contains request for 34 cisterns including Guerrero Primary, Kinder & Telesecundaria at Vivienda de Abajo.
Action: Laura will re-write the Capaderillo Phase II project with 34 cisterns budgeted, since we have additional financial support offered.
Next Assembly for Capaderillo 14 July at 3pm
(Chela advised that both Phases will be planned at that meeting)
This report respectfully submitted by Laura Stewart
5th Mtg of the SMA Midday Rotary Capaderillo potential water Project
Where: Capaderillo Primary School - classroom
When: Wed 9th June 3pm – 5.30
Who: Chela (Cedesa), Elena & Laura (Rotary), 54 adults + 4 men (outside listening through the classroom windows!), + 4 kids
Purpose: To plan the next step of the project.
When we arrived there was a big group already awaiting us in the classroom & several more people crammed in to this full classroom.
There were 22 people from neighbouring Vivienda de Abajo (also called Vivienda Urbana) coming to see how they could be included in the project.
There was also a woman from neighbouring Viviendilla (basically the same neighbourhood but a little further over).
3 people were from La Aurora (they had attended the assembly in Vivienda de Arriba & were invited today.
Vivienda Urbana has approx. 40-50 families & a primary school.
Viviendilla has approx. 20-30 families, & share primary with Cienegita.
La Aurora has approx. 10 families.
There were 36 people attending from Capaderillo.
Introductions
Chela, Elena & Laura
We began working with Los Torres 18ths ago & have since worked in CdP, MdN, VdArriba, & are starting work in Tierra Blanca.
San Isidro Capadero, La Aurora & La Tinaja have also initiated contact.
Chela – why are we here?
Vivienda woman “ we are getting together a group of people interested in constructing cisterns to catch water during the rains”
“ I am interested in this project & would like to learn more”
“I am here for the same reason, hopefully I can come here to see if we can get help with our water situation”
“the teacher invited us to attend if we were interested”
Chela – why capture water?
“because the water here is contaminated & the water from the rain is safe to drink”
“because the water coming from the tap has chloro in it?”
“we have wells but not for drinking water, just for domestic use”
“the wells are from 16- 30mtrs deep” (30 mtrs in Vivienda de Abajo)
Chela – who adds chloro to their pozo water? – no-one
Chela – what are the contaminants?
“sodio” – why is salt bad for you, bad for blood, arteries, kidneys & heart.
Why do you have damaged teeth? “from the water”
What in the water? “saro?” – no.
“fluoride” yes – it affects your teeth & other parts of your body, bones & the brain & all major organs.
What other dangerous minerals exist in the water? Arsenic – causes problems with circulation, cancer & other illnesses.
Chela In Cruz del Palmar there is manganese too. These minerals exist in the water & then contaminate your body, not just affecting your health, but the health of your kids & grandkids.
The problem exists in this region, it is naturally occurring & there are a few people working to resolve this, from Cedesa & Rotary.
Record of Event pg 2 of 3
Rotary provided the funds to provide the solution in MdN, LT, CdP & VdAriiba, $$$ for materials, & training in construction & organization.
The next project – here in Capaderillo is being funded by the green fund from the Ecology department, that’s why we’re here today, to plan for this project, & also look at the possibility of opening up the opportunity for other communities.
Elena – these projects multiply the force/strength, when we work together we achieve more. Plant a seed in the dark & nothing happens, with light & care the tree will grow fruit. Through these projects you will learn integration & organization.
Chela – these communities have a lot in common, your kids go to the same schools, & use the same communal spaces, church & soccer pitches. It makes sense to work together on this, since you have so many things in common, & you all have contaminated water too. If you’re interested we can resolve the issue of resources.
Phase I is for Capaderillo a few Vivienda de Abajo & 1 Guerrero family.
Phase II could be Vivienda de Abajo & Capaderillo, (& possibly La Aurora – although it is approx. 1 hr away by foot. It I closer to Don Juan with approx. 30 families, & Guerrero with approx. 40 families)
One of the women later said, she believes Guerrero is unlikely to want to co-operate, they are known not to be joiners (Ecology dept had said the same about one of their projects).
The measure is of the people with good conscience who wish to commit.
Chela suggested
Change the meeting in Los Torres on the 28th July from 12 to 11am, so we can visit Aurora at 3pm.
First meeting in Aurora/Don Juan/Guerrero to be 28th July at 3pm – Aurora will invite the other communities)
Chela asked about phase II for this Capaderillo/Vivienda de Abajo, I explained we have funding agreed but have yet to write the exact Matching Grant so would be good to have specific details, Chela asked the phase II people to go outside & write their list of names.
The list is to include name of family & number of kids.
Maria Salud & Anamaria will co-ordinate the list of phase II people.
One woman asked about her single daughter who has 1 child, if she is able to participate & help then yes, add her to the list.
The phase II people left the classroom & the men listening through the windows then had space to come in & sit down, these were Phase I people. We continued with Phase I planning.
Phase I called the roll – 5 missing from the roll.
Question, can someone represent someone else in assemblies, yes, 1 person from each family.
Update re timing/schedule
The cheque was promised by Ecology on the 26th May, but we are still waiting. Jesus has been up to the presidencia several times but still no joy. Now they have come up with additional information they require, we suspect the cash is not currently available, but will let them know asap, & will spring into action as soon as we have the cash in hand.
Record of Event pg 3 of 3
2 people from Phase I have said they are unable to work,
Pulcheria, & Ema.
This was discussed & the groups all agreed to remove them from the project & open their slots to 2 people from Phase II who are able to work.
Joel “available & willing” (in his own words) joined group 1 (with their blessing)
Maricela Joined group 6 (in place of Pulcheria).
Chela asked if all groups were clear & co-ordinators were clear on their groups – answer was Si & Si.
The group requested a cistern for the primary in Guerrero (many of their children go there) & also Secondaria.
We suggested these options would be ideal for pilot for phase II.
Re: materials, all of the malla (mesh) & wire, will be delivered for all 38 families at the same time so all can commence work at the same time, once all are completed to the cylinder stage the balance of the materials will be delivered.
This is to prevent the issue of people not co-operating until their materials arrive…
The list for Phase II was handed to me – it contains request for 34 cisterns including Guerrero Primary, Kinder & Telesecundaria at Vivienda de Abajo.
Action: Laura will re-write the Capaderillo Phase II project with 34 cisterns budgeted, since we have additional financial support offered.
Next Assembly for Capaderillo 14 July at 3pm
(Chela advised that both Phases will be planned at that meeting)
This report respectfully submitted by Laura Stewart
Friday, June 4, 2010
40th Event of the SMA Midday Rotary Water Project Los Torres
Record of Event pg 1 of 1
40th Event of the SMA Midday Rotary Water Project Los Torres
Where: Los Torres Chucha’s house
When: Fri 4th June 10-12.20
Who: Holly, (Cedesa), Laura (Rotary), Chucha, Alejandro, concha, Aurelia, Carolina, & Elena from Los Torres.
Purpose:
Plan for the Mayor Luci’s visit on 10th June
The meeting:
Holly & I arrived .5 hr late, we came via Cruz del Palmar & had traffic issues in centro. Also we stopped to enquire about roofing at a tienda on the way.
Luci is to visit on 10th June at 5.30 – re invitation from Chucha.
The discussion points to raise during the visit will be
Bridge to Cruz del Palmar
Road to Los Torres
Bus to Los Torres
Chucha will talk to the Teachers at school about using the kitchen space for the food section.
& also using the tables & chairs out of that small kitchen.
Alejandro will wait at the curve after MdN, in his grey ram truck.
Then they will be taken
1. To Chucha’s house to see the 3 cisterns in close proximity.
2. To visit a cistern currently in construction at Dona Piedad’s house,(they will especially not finish this cistern so she can see the work in progress).
3. To the school to cut the ribbon on the cisterns, & to hear
4. Welcome by Rafa (current delegado)
5. Speech by Concha on the history of the cistern project (including first in the region, expert team created, how it has now progressed.
6. Present petition (to be signed by all members of the community) re the road into LT
Other topics were discussed as possible to present to Luci, CFE electricity issue & Sapasma piping issue, but it was decided these should be discussed directly with the organisations responsible (ie not Luci, but CFE & Sapasma)\
Holly discussed the format for the petitions, ie text, plus signatures on each page;
Elena (from the community) wrote up 2 of the petitions by the time we left, in time for Holly to take with her & format & return to the community to collect signatures…
Meeting finished at 12.20
Next “meeting” will be Mayor’s visit on 10th June at 5.30
40th Event of the SMA Midday Rotary Water Project Los Torres
Where: Los Torres Chucha’s house
When: Fri 4th June 10-12.20
Who: Holly, (Cedesa), Laura (Rotary), Chucha, Alejandro, concha, Aurelia, Carolina, & Elena from Los Torres.
Purpose:
Plan for the Mayor Luci’s visit on 10th June
The meeting:
Holly & I arrived .5 hr late, we came via Cruz del Palmar & had traffic issues in centro. Also we stopped to enquire about roofing at a tienda on the way.
Luci is to visit on 10th June at 5.30 – re invitation from Chucha.
The discussion points to raise during the visit will be
Bridge to Cruz del Palmar
Road to Los Torres
Bus to Los Torres
Chucha will talk to the Teachers at school about using the kitchen space for the food section.
& also using the tables & chairs out of that small kitchen.
Alejandro will wait at the curve after MdN, in his grey ram truck.
Then they will be taken
1. To Chucha’s house to see the 3 cisterns in close proximity.
2. To visit a cistern currently in construction at Dona Piedad’s house,(they will especially not finish this cistern so she can see the work in progress).
3. To the school to cut the ribbon on the cisterns, & to hear
4. Welcome by Rafa (current delegado)
5. Speech by Concha on the history of the cistern project (including first in the region, expert team created, how it has now progressed.
6. Present petition (to be signed by all members of the community) re the road into LT
Other topics were discussed as possible to present to Luci, CFE electricity issue & Sapasma piping issue, but it was decided these should be discussed directly with the organisations responsible (ie not Luci, but CFE & Sapasma)\
Holly discussed the format for the petitions, ie text, plus signatures on each page;
Elena (from the community) wrote up 2 of the petitions by the time we left, in time for Holly to take with her & format & return to the community to collect signatures…
Meeting finished at 12.20
Next “meeting” will be Mayor’s visit on 10th June at 5.30
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
7th Mtg of the SMA Midday Rotary Vivienda de Arriba Water Project
Record of Event pg 1 of 3
7th Mtg of the SMA Midday Rotary Vivienda de Arriba Water Project
Where: Vivienda de Arriba (40 mins from SMA)
When: Wed 2nd June 2010 12.10pm
Who: Holly, Chela (Cedesa) Laura (Rotary), 25 adults incl 5 men + Jesus the sand guy from San Isidro Capadero, & 5 people from La Tinaja (community on the Rd to Gto) & 2 people from La Aurora (past Guerrero).
Purpose: Review of progress of construction of individual family cisterns
We arrived to be greeted by people from 3 additional communities other than VdA.
We decided to have the discussion with each of the communities first before we got onto the business for VdA.
La Tinaja
There were 5 people here to represent this community. This community is further out on the GTO road, near Villa Guadalupe & Pena Blanca.
• One of the women has a niece in VdA who told her about the assembly today.
• Approx 49 families in La Tinaja.
• They have a big well, & have not tested the water, but drink it anyway.
• They had no obvious problems with their teeth.
• They don’t believe they need help with water (although they would like us to test their water for confirmation) they are here to see if we can help them with dry toilets, as there is a project going on in Villa Guadalupe providing dry toilets (this is a project we’re aware of, it is costing approx. US$60k to provide 30 dry toilets, funded by Save the Laja, & done by Atajualpa).
• Their well is approx. 300 mtrs deep.
• They share the well with Ejido de Pena Blana (where the well is located).
• They would like us to test their water
We advised them we do not currently do dry toilets, they are almost twice the cost of cisterns to put in, & often are just used for sheds, as people ultimately prefer to toilet in the wild… Our priority is to provide safe drinking water for everyone who needs it first…
We invited them to the next assembly at VdA on 7th July at 12pm, & may have some information for them then on their next course of action.
La Aurora
2 women came from La Aurora to present their request for assistance with water in their community.
La Aurora is the other side of Guerrero 20 mins walk from Guerreo, (which is the other side of Capaderillo), approx. ½ hr walk from Capaderillo, they would have attended Capaderillo’s assembly but did not know the date of it.
La Aurora is a small community, only approx. 10 families.
They have the same situation as Guerrero, ie wells dry in summer, they have to buy water from the pipas (delivery trucks).
Only have wells in the lower area.
Their teeth are all damaged, (Guerrero has highest Fluoride levels in SMA)
La Aurora were invited to attend the assembly in Capaderillo on 9.6.10 at 3pm to continue planning.
Record of Event pg 2 of 3
The visitors left & we began the VdA assembly at 12.45.
VdA
Chela asked the meeting in general what they knew of these other communities…
One woman was aunty, not sure why they came since they didn’t want help with water, but with dry toilets.
There was a discussion about the # of children here, seems fewer than in other communities, they joked that it was because all the men were up north, & then joked that they only come back to make babies…
Chela began a discussion about toilets. She asked who had them, the majority did not. Some have latrines, they say they are smelly, & this is because the urine is not separated, & it takes longer to dry.
They need to separate the urine, & add lime & dirt, & make sure the lid is always shut, to reduce flies.
The majority of the community go out in the countryside “behind the Nopal(cactus)”
They joked about the animals following them when they know they are going to go to the toilet, & how people wish them luck when they see the animals following them.
Chela then described the model of dry toilet they propose, with 2 chambers, 1 in use, while the other is drying. The urine is separated & is very good to use in a dilution of 1:10 to fertilize plants, everyone laughed at the thought of this, as no-one knew it was possible.
The dry toilet needs to be well maintained to work well.
Casa apparently came to VdA & did a dry toilets project of 5 toilets, it was a lottery, 2 of the people with dry toilets from that project were at today’s meeting, when Chela asked them how the toilets were going, they said, they weren’t since they weren’t using them, they preferred to go in the “wild”…
One family described digging an 18mtr pit & lining it with concrete, they didn’t hit water.
Chela said digging a hole can contaminate the water table, so better to do dry toilets (above ground).
Chela said that since they have 2 people there with dry toilets not using them they most likely don’t want them, & said maybe we should do a project in La Tinaja & they could see how they function (I think she was using a bit of reverse psychology!)
Anamaria agreed to write a list of people who would truly like dry toilets & we will re-visit this at a later stage.
Review of Project
Group 1 & 2, have completed the first 4 in each (ie half).
They have still to install the piping.
They don’t remember how & need help with this.
We suggested they invite Juan to come & demonstrate at one house how to do this.
It took them 3 wks & 2 days.
They say their cisterns are the most beautiful, better than Cruz del Palmar, who have some wonky ones.
They are still waiting for the cement for the 2nd lot…
Record of Event pg 3 of 3
Laura explained, the issue is with the suppliers’ supplier, the quantities were so large the suppliers have had problems keeping up & VdA finished sooner than they estimated.
Cement should be here soon.
Apart from the materials any other probs?
There is interest in a 2nd phase for this community.
1. Consuelo (3 people in family)
2. Nicolasa (6 in family)
3. Francisca (12 in family)
4. Jose Guadalupe (4 in family)
5. Gerardo (anamaria’s brother in law)(just 2 – newly married)
6. Rogelio (3 – young family)
7. Gloria (6 people)
8. Kinder (6 kids)
+ Luisa (2 elderly – rotoplas)
Marcelina was mentioned as she spends some time here, but also some time in Cruz (they have land in both places that they work), I said I thought it unfair to give her a cistern in both places when there are families without even 1)
Laura also pointed out that with such a small group a pilot demo day is more difficult , every person would have to attend everyday & it would be very slow with such small numbers, they had double this number at the first pilot, phase I people would have to help out.
The list was passed around (roll called) we had forgotten to do this at the beginning.
The phase II people were added to the roll.
San Isidro Capadero (Jesus – the sand guy)
The guy who delivered the sand to all the project recipients attended today’s meeting, this is his 2nd meeting, he took time off work to attend today’s meeting.
• There are approx. 30 families.
• He has a list of 10 interested at this time, he didn’t want to disrupt today’s meeting by bringing them.
• They have no running water, small personal wells, & they get water from the river, but there is no water in the dry season.
• Jesus understands the situation, it is a process that takes time, firstly to gather the interest, then the information, & then to write & make the application for funding (Rotary, Ecology or Sapasma)…
• He agreed to gather the info. & we will make a time to visit his community at a later date.
Meeting finished at 2pm.
Next meeting will be at Vivienda de Arriba on 7th July at 12 Midday.
We then went for lunch at one of the houses, during which we saw they had decorated their cistern with 3 elephants on the top, apparently they have decorated each one individually! I will take photos next time! (Very cute!!)
7th Mtg of the SMA Midday Rotary Vivienda de Arriba Water Project
Where: Vivienda de Arriba (40 mins from SMA)
When: Wed 2nd June 2010 12.10pm
Who: Holly, Chela (Cedesa) Laura (Rotary), 25 adults incl 5 men + Jesus the sand guy from San Isidro Capadero, & 5 people from La Tinaja (community on the Rd to Gto) & 2 people from La Aurora (past Guerrero).
Purpose: Review of progress of construction of individual family cisterns
We arrived to be greeted by people from 3 additional communities other than VdA.
We decided to have the discussion with each of the communities first before we got onto the business for VdA.
La Tinaja
There were 5 people here to represent this community. This community is further out on the GTO road, near Villa Guadalupe & Pena Blanca.
• One of the women has a niece in VdA who told her about the assembly today.
• Approx 49 families in La Tinaja.
• They have a big well, & have not tested the water, but drink it anyway.
• They had no obvious problems with their teeth.
• They don’t believe they need help with water (although they would like us to test their water for confirmation) they are here to see if we can help them with dry toilets, as there is a project going on in Villa Guadalupe providing dry toilets (this is a project we’re aware of, it is costing approx. US$60k to provide 30 dry toilets, funded by Save the Laja, & done by Atajualpa).
• Their well is approx. 300 mtrs deep.
• They share the well with Ejido de Pena Blana (where the well is located).
• They would like us to test their water
We advised them we do not currently do dry toilets, they are almost twice the cost of cisterns to put in, & often are just used for sheds, as people ultimately prefer to toilet in the wild… Our priority is to provide safe drinking water for everyone who needs it first…
We invited them to the next assembly at VdA on 7th July at 12pm, & may have some information for them then on their next course of action.
La Aurora
2 women came from La Aurora to present their request for assistance with water in their community.
La Aurora is the other side of Guerrero 20 mins walk from Guerreo, (which is the other side of Capaderillo), approx. ½ hr walk from Capaderillo, they would have attended Capaderillo’s assembly but did not know the date of it.
La Aurora is a small community, only approx. 10 families.
They have the same situation as Guerrero, ie wells dry in summer, they have to buy water from the pipas (delivery trucks).
Only have wells in the lower area.
Their teeth are all damaged, (Guerrero has highest Fluoride levels in SMA)
La Aurora were invited to attend the assembly in Capaderillo on 9.6.10 at 3pm to continue planning.
Record of Event pg 2 of 3
The visitors left & we began the VdA assembly at 12.45.
VdA
Chela asked the meeting in general what they knew of these other communities…
One woman was aunty, not sure why they came since they didn’t want help with water, but with dry toilets.
There was a discussion about the # of children here, seems fewer than in other communities, they joked that it was because all the men were up north, & then joked that they only come back to make babies…
Chela began a discussion about toilets. She asked who had them, the majority did not. Some have latrines, they say they are smelly, & this is because the urine is not separated, & it takes longer to dry.
They need to separate the urine, & add lime & dirt, & make sure the lid is always shut, to reduce flies.
The majority of the community go out in the countryside “behind the Nopal(cactus)”
They joked about the animals following them when they know they are going to go to the toilet, & how people wish them luck when they see the animals following them.
Chela then described the model of dry toilet they propose, with 2 chambers, 1 in use, while the other is drying. The urine is separated & is very good to use in a dilution of 1:10 to fertilize plants, everyone laughed at the thought of this, as no-one knew it was possible.
The dry toilet needs to be well maintained to work well.
Casa apparently came to VdA & did a dry toilets project of 5 toilets, it was a lottery, 2 of the people with dry toilets from that project were at today’s meeting, when Chela asked them how the toilets were going, they said, they weren’t since they weren’t using them, they preferred to go in the “wild”…
One family described digging an 18mtr pit & lining it with concrete, they didn’t hit water.
Chela said digging a hole can contaminate the water table, so better to do dry toilets (above ground).
Chela said that since they have 2 people there with dry toilets not using them they most likely don’t want them, & said maybe we should do a project in La Tinaja & they could see how they function (I think she was using a bit of reverse psychology!)
Anamaria agreed to write a list of people who would truly like dry toilets & we will re-visit this at a later stage.
Review of Project
Group 1 & 2, have completed the first 4 in each (ie half).
They have still to install the piping.
They don’t remember how & need help with this.
We suggested they invite Juan to come & demonstrate at one house how to do this.
It took them 3 wks & 2 days.
They say their cisterns are the most beautiful, better than Cruz del Palmar, who have some wonky ones.
They are still waiting for the cement for the 2nd lot…
Record of Event pg 3 of 3
Laura explained, the issue is with the suppliers’ supplier, the quantities were so large the suppliers have had problems keeping up & VdA finished sooner than they estimated.
Cement should be here soon.
Apart from the materials any other probs?
There is interest in a 2nd phase for this community.
1. Consuelo (3 people in family)
2. Nicolasa (6 in family)
3. Francisca (12 in family)
4. Jose Guadalupe (4 in family)
5. Gerardo (anamaria’s brother in law)(just 2 – newly married)
6. Rogelio (3 – young family)
7. Gloria (6 people)
8. Kinder (6 kids)
+ Luisa (2 elderly – rotoplas)
Marcelina was mentioned as she spends some time here, but also some time in Cruz (they have land in both places that they work), I said I thought it unfair to give her a cistern in both places when there are families without even 1)
Laura also pointed out that with such a small group a pilot demo day is more difficult , every person would have to attend everyday & it would be very slow with such small numbers, they had double this number at the first pilot, phase I people would have to help out.
The list was passed around (roll called) we had forgotten to do this at the beginning.
The phase II people were added to the roll.
San Isidro Capadero (Jesus – the sand guy)
The guy who delivered the sand to all the project recipients attended today’s meeting, this is his 2nd meeting, he took time off work to attend today’s meeting.
• There are approx. 30 families.
• He has a list of 10 interested at this time, he didn’t want to disrupt today’s meeting by bringing them.
• They have no running water, small personal wells, & they get water from the river, but there is no water in the dry season.
• Jesus understands the situation, it is a process that takes time, firstly to gather the interest, then the information, & then to write & make the application for funding (Rotary, Ecology or Sapasma)…
• He agreed to gather the info. & we will make a time to visit his community at a later date.
Meeting finished at 2pm.
Next meeting will be at Vivienda de Arriba on 7th July at 12 Midday.
We then went for lunch at one of the houses, during which we saw they had decorated their cistern with 3 elephants on the top, apparently they have decorated each one individually! I will take photos next time! (Very cute!!)
Report of 2nd visit to Tierra Blanca
Where: Tierra Blanca – under big trees down by the river…
When: 02.06.10
Who: Chela, Jesus, Holly (Cedesa) Laura (Rotary), 38 adults incl, 4 men, 8kids, at least 7dogs
Purpose: We were invited to visit this community to talk about water issues & discovered they have a major health issue, the community has requested our help to resolve the early mortality rate.
Introduction
Chela asked us to introduce ourselves & then gave the meeting a bit of background about Cedesa, & also about the collaboration between Rotary & Cedesa starting in Los Torres, 18mths ago, working on the solution to the problem of contaminated water (by fluoride, arsenic & in some cases manganese). She explained we began training & teaching people to build cisterns.
3 Women from the Tierra Blanca community began to visit the assemblies in Los Torres & then in Vivienda de Arriba & asked us to visit Tierra Blanca. This is our 2nd meeting, last time they mentioned the mortality rate issue & asked for our help.
We came initially to talk about water issues, & many other issues were raised, nutrition, alcoholism & the cancer issue. We are here to talk more about this issue as it worries us & we would like to work with you to resolve this issue.
Do you want to work with us or not? “SI”
The problems you have raised are serious, do you want an organised assembly or disorganised?
“organised!”
To organise we need to appoint a co-ordinator, to control the speakers & raise points for the agenda – who do you propose?
Veronica was proposed, & all voted yes.
The principal function of the co-ordinator was explained as to keep order & make sure everyone has a chance to be heard, & also to raise points for discussion today.
Points for discussion
• Cisterns for above & below communities.
• The problem of cancer/health
• Why doesn’t someone help us with a bridge for the rainy season?
• Interested in dry toilets (we don’t have them)
Cisterns
Contaminated water info was provided, ie fluoride & it’s symptoms.
They just began to drink the water from the deep well 10 years ago, so the symptoms are not obvious in the adults, & are more obvious in the kids. The small 3 or 4 year olds’ teeth are crumbling & falling out.
The water has not been tested yet, but is assumed to be contaminated.
Jesus – ususally the deeper the well, the more contaminated the water, also there is a strong relationship between arsenic & cancer, so arsenic is a potential cause.
Step 1 will be to analyse the water, we didn’t bring water sample bottles today as we are waiting for new ones for the lab.
The water from the pozo (deep well) only runs between 12 – 4pm daily (when the pump is switched on), people with roof top tinacos (plastic tanks) collect water in them, & then use it from there, when the pump is switched off.
Jesus suggested a commission to accompany us to the well to take the tests (when we return with the sample bottles)
Estela, Enedina, Lucia, Pedro & Vero will help take tests.
Vero 415 155 9410
Pedro 414 153 5862
Action Jesus When we have the bottles we will ring to make a time to come to do the test.
The water from the well is cold not warm when it comes up.
We need the keys to the enclosure to enter the well (community will organise these)
Chela – This program is not a govt. or Santa Claus program, you need to participate & ultimately build your own cisterns within groups.
Vero was asked to describe what she knows about the project.
She said they organised well, & began learning when they built one at the kinder, & then worked well in groups to build their own cisterns – Dona Julia reiterated this too.
Chela - If you demonstrate your motivation we can help, it’s not easy for Laura to knock on doors for money, she doesn’t have a big pile of money in her big bag (my bag is always full of files, kind of my portable office, so I carry a big bag to the communities)… she has to go & find avenues of help for you.
How many families are there in Tierra Blanca (approx. 125)
How many families are interested in this moment in starting a cistern project?
Jesus – water, toilets & health are in truth, all related. We need to ask questions to find info & resolve the issues, to begin a plan of management for this community, important to begin in these themes/issues.
We need to take a census - how –any families, how many inhabitants…
# of houses 125
# of persons avg 5 per house – 625
# men/women
Where the water is sourced, what types of water are drunk…
Action It was agreed that at the next assembly they would come with a list of who would like cisterns.
Action: Jesus proposed coming on the day they test water, with a rough map of the community & divide into roughly 3 areas of 40 families in each area.
Suggested 3 Teams in charge of the census
Marisol (& Vero)
Lucia/Pedro
Enedina/Reina & Carmela
Before the well people were still dying young, so it is unlikely to be the well water, but it is causing other issues (fluoride contamination). People were drinking from the river
Jesus asked everyone in the meeting
“raise your hand if you have a direct family member who has died from the cancer problem”
17 out of 43 people, raised their hands (ie approx. 40%)
How far back does this problem go? Grandparents, great grandparents?
“both grandparents & uncles died”
“here is a drastic situation, on my wife’s side all the people have died, relatives as young as 23 & people in their 30’s”
“I don’t think it’s the water, other communities are also drinking this water & they have old people & we don’t!”
“Dr’s are all surprised why people are dying here in Tierra Blanca”
“I am not sure how much you can all do to help us deal with this”
Jesus answered –
We will do an epidemiological study to determine the causes of the sickness’s, once we have the information we will be able to see the relationships/patterns, & maybe it’s external causes, or maybe it’s bloodlines, or a propensity to the problem.
Once we have the information we can work with medical experts to determine the cause & possibly prevention or cure…
If you are interested in learning the cause we will work with you buy only if you are interested, with your participation only. Are you interested in working with us? “Si”
Jesus suggested the 17 people who raised their hands could be the first to fill in the interview forms we have to begin gathering statistics & data.
“There is a young man who is sick with “bumps” under his lungs they say he is sick & cant do anything about it…”
The Bridge
Chela – did you ask for help at the municipality re this issue – “si but no-one came”
When it rains there is no access here, it’s blocked in all directions. It’s up to your chest if you try to cross the river.
There is a footbridge in neighbouring Espejo to cross on, but no-where for vehicle access.
Jesus suggested the community needs to appoint a commission to look at the problem & potential options to resolve it, including possible diversion of the course of the river with large rocks etc. & looking at not removing sand (preventing excavation & continued erosion/worsening of the problem).;
La Campana (another community Jesus is aware of) had a similar problem, they began with analysis, then diverted the river & had no need for a bridge.
The Bridge commission needs to consider
History of the river flow
Make suggestions for solution
Be prepared to meet with govt (public works) but have done the work in advance.
Commission for the bridge is
Estela, Augustine, Isabel Garcia
On the day Jesus comes for the water samples he will also meet with
1. Commission for the census/health
2. Commission for the bridge
3. Commission for water
Next assembly will be cisternas list.
Dry toilets
5 out of 44 people at the meeting have toilets,
3 people have flush toilets that flush into septic tank.
1 has latrine & 1 has dry toilet
Chela suggested that at the next assembly we discuss options, what works best & what people want.
Doubts & Questions
None…
Next assembly in Tierra Blanca 7th July at 3pm (commissions visit by Jesus to be advised)
The 17 people were then interviewed & stats info sheets completed by Jesus, Chela & Holly.
We then went to the house of Pedro & had gorditas, beans, nopal, rice & Alfalfa juice. We arrived home around 7.30 pm.
When: 02.06.10
Who: Chela, Jesus, Holly (Cedesa) Laura (Rotary), 38 adults incl, 4 men, 8kids, at least 7dogs
Purpose: We were invited to visit this community to talk about water issues & discovered they have a major health issue, the community has requested our help to resolve the early mortality rate.
Introduction
Chela asked us to introduce ourselves & then gave the meeting a bit of background about Cedesa, & also about the collaboration between Rotary & Cedesa starting in Los Torres, 18mths ago, working on the solution to the problem of contaminated water (by fluoride, arsenic & in some cases manganese). She explained we began training & teaching people to build cisterns.
3 Women from the Tierra Blanca community began to visit the assemblies in Los Torres & then in Vivienda de Arriba & asked us to visit Tierra Blanca. This is our 2nd meeting, last time they mentioned the mortality rate issue & asked for our help.
We came initially to talk about water issues, & many other issues were raised, nutrition, alcoholism & the cancer issue. We are here to talk more about this issue as it worries us & we would like to work with you to resolve this issue.
Do you want to work with us or not? “SI”
The problems you have raised are serious, do you want an organised assembly or disorganised?
“organised!”
To organise we need to appoint a co-ordinator, to control the speakers & raise points for the agenda – who do you propose?
Veronica was proposed, & all voted yes.
The principal function of the co-ordinator was explained as to keep order & make sure everyone has a chance to be heard, & also to raise points for discussion today.
Points for discussion
• Cisterns for above & below communities.
• The problem of cancer/health
• Why doesn’t someone help us with a bridge for the rainy season?
• Interested in dry toilets (we don’t have them)
Cisterns
Contaminated water info was provided, ie fluoride & it’s symptoms.
They just began to drink the water from the deep well 10 years ago, so the symptoms are not obvious in the adults, & are more obvious in the kids. The small 3 or 4 year olds’ teeth are crumbling & falling out.
The water has not been tested yet, but is assumed to be contaminated.
Jesus – ususally the deeper the well, the more contaminated the water, also there is a strong relationship between arsenic & cancer, so arsenic is a potential cause.
Step 1 will be to analyse the water, we didn’t bring water sample bottles today as we are waiting for new ones for the lab.
The water from the pozo (deep well) only runs between 12 – 4pm daily (when the pump is switched on), people with roof top tinacos (plastic tanks) collect water in them, & then use it from there, when the pump is switched off.
Jesus suggested a commission to accompany us to the well to take the tests (when we return with the sample bottles)
Estela, Enedina, Lucia, Pedro & Vero will help take tests.
Vero 415 155 9410
Pedro 414 153 5862
Action Jesus When we have the bottles we will ring to make a time to come to do the test.
The water from the well is cold not warm when it comes up.
We need the keys to the enclosure to enter the well (community will organise these)
Chela – This program is not a govt. or Santa Claus program, you need to participate & ultimately build your own cisterns within groups.
Vero was asked to describe what she knows about the project.
She said they organised well, & began learning when they built one at the kinder, & then worked well in groups to build their own cisterns – Dona Julia reiterated this too.
Chela - If you demonstrate your motivation we can help, it’s not easy for Laura to knock on doors for money, she doesn’t have a big pile of money in her big bag (my bag is always full of files, kind of my portable office, so I carry a big bag to the communities)… she has to go & find avenues of help for you.
How many families are there in Tierra Blanca (approx. 125)
How many families are interested in this moment in starting a cistern project?
Jesus – water, toilets & health are in truth, all related. We need to ask questions to find info & resolve the issues, to begin a plan of management for this community, important to begin in these themes/issues.
We need to take a census - how –any families, how many inhabitants…
# of houses 125
# of persons avg 5 per house – 625
# men/women
Where the water is sourced, what types of water are drunk…
Action It was agreed that at the next assembly they would come with a list of who would like cisterns.
Action: Jesus proposed coming on the day they test water, with a rough map of the community & divide into roughly 3 areas of 40 families in each area.
Suggested 3 Teams in charge of the census
Marisol (& Vero)
Lucia/Pedro
Enedina/Reina & Carmela
Before the well people were still dying young, so it is unlikely to be the well water, but it is causing other issues (fluoride contamination). People were drinking from the river
Jesus asked everyone in the meeting
“raise your hand if you have a direct family member who has died from the cancer problem”
17 out of 43 people, raised their hands (ie approx. 40%)
How far back does this problem go? Grandparents, great grandparents?
“both grandparents & uncles died”
“here is a drastic situation, on my wife’s side all the people have died, relatives as young as 23 & people in their 30’s”
“I don’t think it’s the water, other communities are also drinking this water & they have old people & we don’t!”
“Dr’s are all surprised why people are dying here in Tierra Blanca”
“I am not sure how much you can all do to help us deal with this”
Jesus answered –
We will do an epidemiological study to determine the causes of the sickness’s, once we have the information we will be able to see the relationships/patterns, & maybe it’s external causes, or maybe it’s bloodlines, or a propensity to the problem.
Once we have the information we can work with medical experts to determine the cause & possibly prevention or cure…
If you are interested in learning the cause we will work with you buy only if you are interested, with your participation only. Are you interested in working with us? “Si”
Jesus suggested the 17 people who raised their hands could be the first to fill in the interview forms we have to begin gathering statistics & data.
“There is a young man who is sick with “bumps” under his lungs they say he is sick & cant do anything about it…”
The Bridge
Chela – did you ask for help at the municipality re this issue – “si but no-one came”
When it rains there is no access here, it’s blocked in all directions. It’s up to your chest if you try to cross the river.
There is a footbridge in neighbouring Espejo to cross on, but no-where for vehicle access.
Jesus suggested the community needs to appoint a commission to look at the problem & potential options to resolve it, including possible diversion of the course of the river with large rocks etc. & looking at not removing sand (preventing excavation & continued erosion/worsening of the problem).;
La Campana (another community Jesus is aware of) had a similar problem, they began with analysis, then diverted the river & had no need for a bridge.
The Bridge commission needs to consider
History of the river flow
Make suggestions for solution
Be prepared to meet with govt (public works) but have done the work in advance.
Commission for the bridge is
Estela, Augustine, Isabel Garcia
On the day Jesus comes for the water samples he will also meet with
1. Commission for the census/health
2. Commission for the bridge
3. Commission for water
Next assembly will be cisternas list.
Dry toilets
5 out of 44 people at the meeting have toilets,
3 people have flush toilets that flush into septic tank.
1 has latrine & 1 has dry toilet
Chela suggested that at the next assembly we discuss options, what works best & what people want.
Doubts & Questions
None…
Next assembly in Tierra Blanca 7th July at 3pm (commissions visit by Jesus to be advised)
The 17 people were then interviewed & stats info sheets completed by Jesus, Chela & Holly.
We then went to the house of Pedro & had gorditas, beans, nopal, rice & Alfalfa juice. We arrived home around 7.30 pm.
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