(For regular updates, see my Blog)

New: See this story on the Carmen Pampa indigenous university in Coroico, Bolivia, published in July 2010 by GlobalPost: http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/education/100713/indigenous-bolivia?page=0,0

Current Project: "Miracle Babies of Mexico City, 25 Years later"

    More than a dozen newborn babies were pulled from the rubble of the 1985 Mexico City earthquake, and a team of doctors, nurses and social workers has treated them for 24-plus years. The survivors' successes and failures, frustrations and hopes for the future. Extensive interviews, with photos. Video also available. First publication rights to this story have been sold. (See story appearing 5 February in GlobalPost) For more information or to inquire about additional publishing opportunities, contact the author. (see "Contact" above.)

Also available: Magazine-length article, "Nicaragua's Sandinista Revolution at 30" (see "Letter from Nicaragua" below)

    Peru 'Narco-terrorists' bring economic boom

    HUANTA, Peru — The Communist hammer-and-cycle adorns the black-and-green uniforms of the Shining Path guerrillas here, as well as the flags flying over their jungle encampments. But the main activity of the group is not ambushing military patrols and outposts, it is managing the area’s booming cocaine trade. Their real symbol ought to be the dollar sign. Full Story.

   U.S. Foreign Aid Program Under Spotlight

     The United States provides more than $40 billion per year in foreign aid to less-developed countries. Some critics say it should not come with strings attached. The Obama Administration is now conducting a government-wide review of aid programs and policies.

Full story on GlobalPost.   

   Mexico Restores Diego Rivera murals

    MEXICO CITY, Mexico — Diego Rivera's murals are to Mexico what the Michelangelo frescoes are to Rome.

    The walls of Mexico City's National Palace are filled with the artist’s vision of the pre-Hispanic indigenous Mexico of the Aztecs, the Conquest and battle for independence, and a Marxist utopia of the 20th Century. Full Story

   Two cities celebrate 40-year connection

Sister cities Ashland, Oregon and Guanajuato, Gto., Mexico have been connected for 40 years. Thousands have been involved in the relationship, and 79 marriages have resulted. See my report on GlobalPost.

Tarija's wines get some air