Returning Catracho Report

Change is good!

noreply@blogger.com (carlosjmelgar) — Sun, 10 Mar 2013 09:06:00 +0000

I'm continuing this blog in a different direction, more to come! Photographed outside my apartment in Roatan, Honduras.

Cayos Cochinos.

noreply@blogger.com (carlosjmelgar) — Thu, 31 Jan 2013 03:07:00 +0000

Just posting a quick photo to keep the blog alive. This is from a recent trip to Cayos Cochinos.

Return to blogging?

noreply@blogger.com (carlosjmelgar) — Sun, 10 Jun 2012 21:41:00 +0000

Should I keep writing on this blog, or move it along to a new "image"? Are any of my 3 or 4 followers still keeping up with this?

The Backpack

noreply@blogger.com (carlosjmelgar) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 03:52:00 +0000

I always roll with a backpack on, always have. No, I'm not a Backpack Rapper. No, I'm not selling drugs. No, I'm not selling bootleg DVDs.

Back in the day, I rolled with it because I always had somewhere to go after school. Now, I carry it because I'm always grinding, and don't have a car. The backpack is now the Grand Cherokee backseat... in some ways.

The contents:

Modem
Laptop
Camera
Keys
Books
Beach Clothes and towel (optional)

Sh*t Roosters Say

noreply@blogger.com (carlosjmelgar) — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 12:59:00 +0000

If you live in Honduras, or a Latino neighborhood in Los Angeles, you probably live within earshot of chickens. More specifically, roosters. A rooster crowing is something I will never get used to. That sound has to be on a list with anything Janice Litman and Gilbert Gottfried say, nails screeching across a chalkboard and Sh*t Girlfriends Say coming out of your girlfriend's mouth. It wouldn't be so bad if they were only boisterous at the crack of dawn, as is portrayed in cartoons. In reality, they can and will make noise at any time of day. Not the best background noise to have blaring through your window during skype meetings, or pillow talk. I'm assuming the latter, I wouldn't know anything about that these days.

Not really related, but check out this video of the hot chicks next door.

Cold Showers and Writing

noreply@blogger.com (carlosjmelgar) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 03:19:00 +0000

An update about "finally" posting on a blog scrolled across my Facebook feed today, respected as an intelligent person, I decided to follow her >>>link<<<. Her post was so amusing, that it motivated me to "finally" update my blog in hopes of amusing one of my 3 or 4 followers. If I get one, that's a pretty big percentage. I almost didn't check how long she she withheld from blogging, but my blogging etiquette kicked in, forcing me to click previous. Turns out, she was away for less than a month. Pff. Check out my previous post, that's what's up. That's almost nine months. I could have put a baby in someone, taken baby classes, built a crib, and created a morphthing photo of me and the lucky lady. All she did was go to >>>Antigua, Guatemala<<<. I'd rather go there than put a baby in someone though.

Since I am serious about my return to blogging, I skimmed through past posts that didn't align with my current vibe. Anything with a negative tone has been deleted, I really don't have anything to be upset about. I'm not sleeping on cardboard, a floor, or a couch. When I get back to one of those, I'm allowed to complain.

Another funny thing about my previous post: I didn't have hot water then, I don't have hot water now. Coincidence? I will never get used to that.

I shouldn't have left you...

noreply@blogger.com (carlosjmelgar) — Wed, 27 Apr 2011 18:48:00 +0000

Without a dope blog to burn to!

After putting in a couple hours of work, 3 workout sessions, and three cold showers, all between 10 PM and 7 AM; I've come to realize that I should be writing.

What should you look forward to?
Unemployed, or is it self-employed? Now I'm single, no more fiancee. Dating, or something like it. Inspiration!

Thank You Internet - Globalization 3.1

noreply@blogger.com (carlosjmelgar) — Fri, 09 Jul 2010 19:25:00 +0000

I had to come out of blogging retirement for this one. Michael Jordan came out of retirement a few times... Why can't I?

Seriously though - this post possesses the power to change your life, that's why I'm writing this. It's the secret! It's not really The Secret, and it sure as heck ain't the Landmark Forum, that's a different post altogether!

It's the empowerment of the individual (YOU!), more and more with every second and byte that flies by us. I'm referring to Globalization. The World is Flat: A Brief History of the 21st Century, by Thomas Friedman opened my eyes years ago, but it wasn't until recently that I realized how it has and will continue to shape my life.

Friedman presents social and economic globalization in three stages:
1.0 - Nations and Governments reach out and establish the trade of goods and form alliances.
2.0 - Companies expand in the creation of global markets.
3.0 - The "playing field" is leveled with increased access to technology, specifically the internet;
allowing individuals to compete in global markets.

This youtube video is an example of the power at your fingertips, literally. Anyone with access to the internet can sit-in during Friedman's presentation to a tuition paying crowd at Yale, the school where Friedman's kid studies.

"The book was better" applies here... You have to read the book! If you don't think you'll get around to it, just watch this.

This blog is another example of globalization. An average Jose like myself can become a pamphleteer by creating or sharing media in seconds. Quite the jump from being the ONLY student to submit typewritten assignments when "typed" assignments became mandatory. It's not the best example of globalization's life changing effects (read "lucrative") on an individual or business, it's only a tiny speck in the big picture.

Job seekers don't walk door to door filling out "applications" anymore. Job listing sites like monster.com allow you to fill out one application, distribute that to companies listing employment vacancies, then follow that up with an interview on Skype conference. Most impressively, you can accomplish this in one day. Job seekers can use fewer resources and apply to more companies while employers receive abundant responses to skim through. I've been on both sides of that one; having to bcc my resume to email lists I compiled for different positions like administrative assistant, bookkeeping, shipping management (you can make ok money if you learn to use UPS WorldShip and FedEx Shipping Manager, you gotta start somewhere!!!). When I needed my own assistant, I did the cheapest and easiest thing I could think of, which coincidentally was how I found a lower level position with the same company. I posted an ad on craigslist.org, my inbox was flooded overnight. (Off topic: Some people need more than 24 hours in a day, I understand that. I sometimes have to work until the wee hours of the morning, it's cool. Props is you have that type of work ethic, but you don't communicate with people at those hours. Sending your resume at 2:30 a.m. can make people think that you're either a vampire or a party animal. Neither of those are good choices for businesses operating during regular business hours.) You can apply this to other situations also, as noted by Andre 3000 in this song.
Do you remember waiting for a response in the MAIL???

How do you get off the bleachers? I have no idea, that's for you to figure out. If you posses special skills that distiguish you from the "average Joses" of the world, you can promote yourself on the internet and offer your services or products worldwide. If you're bilingual, you can teach a language with skype and receive payment with Paypal. You can sell anything you make on sites like ebay or local listing pages. Soulja Boy Tell'em blew up on youtube, go on there and do something. If you think you're funny you can post skits or stand up routines on YouTube.

"Before you re-up get a laptop
start a business for yourself, boy set some goals
make a fat diamond out of dust and coals"
B.O.B. - Outkast

I can't help wondering what the next level of globalization will be, or it it will be the "D" word instead....

Movie Review - A Million to Juan (1994)

noreply@blogger.com (carlosjmelgar) — Wed, 05 May 2010 16:00:00 +0000

Characters
Paul Rodriguez - Juan Lopez
Tony Plana - Jorge
Bert Rosario - Alvaro
Polly Draper - Olivia Smith
Jonathan Hernandez - Alejandro Lopez
Edward James Olmos - The Angel (as himself?)
Cheech Marin - Shell Shock
Ruben Blades - The Bartender

Jurassic Park was my first movie theater experience, A Million to Juan was the second. Why start my movie review column (lol) with the second instead of the 1st? I'm glad you asked. This film ranks pretty high in my top 10. I recall being really excited about seeing A Million to Juan, mostly because I expected to understand the dialogue as it unfolded in front of my eyes. I can't pin point why, but my English improved dramatically between Jurassic Park and A Million to Juan. Jurassic Park was an amazing experience, but I didn't know what the heck they were talking about, even with the Spanish subtitles! Yeah, there were Spanish subtitles. It was a ghetto ass theater.

Google maps image - street view

We watched A Million to Juan at the campus theater, located on Vermont Ave. - at the Santa Monica Blvd intersection, across from the metro rail station. This is the theater that all the Latino families packed into with Subway sandwiches and soda bottles stashed into someone's purse, backpack or jacket sleeve. I've even taken a burrito from Mariela's (click here for restaurant review). If you've been there, you know what I'm talking about! Seconds into the movie previews, you hear sandwiches being unwrapped, bags of chips rustling, and the gas being released from the 2 liter bottles. Shortly after that, the dark theater is illuminated as the side door is opened to sneak people in. Again, you know what I'm talking about... The floors were stickier than those at adult theaters... I imagine... Despite all of that, I love this theater. It was air conditioned, cheap, and served as a haven when I wanted to run away for a few hours, or a day. This was THE THEATER for Latino families!

A Million to Juan is an adaptation of Mark Twain's "The Million Pound Bank Note," and 50's film titled the same; although released as "The Man With a Million," in the United States. The film is set in Los Angeles during the early 90's. Juan is portrayed by the legendary Latino comedian, Paul Rodriguez. Juan, like Henry in Twain's piece of literature, "Had nothing to depend on but his wits and clean reputation." He is confident that these traits would prove to be plenty in achieving eventual success.

"I was alone in the world, and had nothing to depend on but my wits and good reputation; but these were setting my feet in the road to eventual fortune, and I was content with that prospect." Henry in The Million Pound Bank Note by Mark Twain

During the journey to success, Juan has to make ends meet by taking up odd jobs; shoe shiner, parking attendant, roach coach cook, panaderia baker, raspado vendor, dishwasher, tire shop man?, elote salesman, cook , construction worker, and street side orange vendor. His son Alejandro, quotes him as often saying funny things like, "I've never met an odd job that didn't like me" and "If variety is the spice of life, I'm over-seasoned!"

Juan and his son live with Tio Jorge, a carpenter and Tio Alvaro, a gardener. Both of the uncles are novela (Spanish Soap Operas) fanatics. I'm not a fanatic, but if you're latino, you know you've seen at least one novela in your life! Don't be ashamed, it's ok. I've seen Marimar, Dos Mujeres un Camino and a few others I can't remember now. Alejandro's mother died three years before the film began, she's out of the picture.

Juan is discouraged by a streak of bad luck with his streetside orange sales, relationship, and uninhabitable apartment. Adding insult to injury, Shell Shock (Cheech Marin), takes over his spot on the sidewalk with a "war vet" begging gimmick. Shell Shock's presence takes away from his already measly sales. Juan's integrity shines as he questions Shell Shock about his morals. Later that day, a white limo pulls up and arm dressed in all white stretches out of the window to hand Juan an envelope. He pays no mind to it and stuffs it in his pocket. Despite all of the terrible luck Juan continues to plug away with the orange sales until his shopping cart is empty. On his way home he's approached by the neighborhood hustler and proudly announces that he "Made some Feria!!!" I know that very feeling. I remember announcing to myself "Rent is paid!" and then preparing to eat cereal and mac and cheese until my next pay check. lol...

Juan finally realizes that the envelope that was handed to him contains a check for $1,000,000 to his name and a letter stating that he is the unexpected participant in an experiment.

The film winds to a feel good ending that is more cohesive than Twain's, in my opinion. Check it out!

This film deserves a 5 of 5 Baleada score despite the poor sound and lighting. It's not that type of critique (obviously since it is rated on a Baleada scale), it is a "5 Baleada film" because of the overall message of adherence to integrity and perseverance despite all of life's little hurdles. This film is special to me for many reasons; it led me to research and read Twain at an early age, it reinforced my personal beliefs, and it opened my eyes to what it means to be an "immigrant" in the US. The day I saw this film, I knew I had to get on the grind!

Common Sight and Sounds in Honduras - Funny Signs IV

noreply@blogger.com (carlosjmelgar) — Sun, 02 May 2010 20:41:00 +0000

Not even if I was a 200 Lbs rabbit! (Please read the following in your beast Tracy Morgan impersonation) That's Crazy!

The Best Raspados in Los Angeles

noreply@blogger.com (carlosjmelgar) — Thu, 29 Apr 2010 01:33:00 +0000

This is the BEST, I mean ABSOLUTELY THE BEST, raspado vendor in Los Angeles. My favorite flavors, Tamarindo and Nance, are served with pulp and even the seeds. Handmade Tamarindo syrup and pulp over ice shavings, there is no better way to overcome the L.A. summer heat.

Back in the day, I used to take him the fast food souvenir cups; the ones they give away when super duper sizing your combo, to fill for $1!!! I know he hated that, but he filled it anyway.

This is the google maps print screen of 2nd / Mariposa. It's very fitting that he's on Google, because that's the spot he's posted up at most often. The google maps image is pretty darn close to the view out of the window in my mom's apartment. I think I was his best customer for a few years. Him posting up there definitely helped that cause.

Selling a raspado to a Virgil Middle School student, obvious by the grey and maroon uniform... Thank goodness for me going to Emerson MS instead, that's and ugly combination!

Needless to say, this post also receives the "You know you live in the ghetto when..."

Common Sights and Sounds in Honduras - Funny Signs II

noreply@blogger.com (carlosjmelgar) — Wed, 28 Apr 2010 18:00:00 +0000

I wish I knew a nice girl to introduce to this guy...

This picture was taken at a Roatan supermarket bulletin board. Thanks Sara!

I am en elderly, single, (Gringo)
Seeking single Honduran woman
Must be between the ages of 25 - 45
Goal: Eventual marriage
preferably bilingual
Requirements:
Must NOT have dependent kids living on you that
Must meet once, no strings attached
If an automobile is necessary for private transportation, DON'T CALL ME!

Baleadas Express - San Pedro Sula

noreply@blogger.com (carlosjmelgar) — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 23:00:00 +0000

In the words of one of my Sampedrano friends, "Baleadas Express is the Holy Grail of Baleadas." They are delicious baleadas, far better than most I've had, but it's far too early in my journey to bestow such a tittle on a Baleada place. I suspect that my quest for the best Baleada in Honduras is as far from being completed as man's exploration of the world's oceans. Again, these Baleadas are REALLY good, the horchata too!

They're so good, I dragged my luggage into this place on my way out of SPS. Another good friend, Sampedrana and spouse to the aforementioned Sampedrano, asked where I would like to be dropped off. "The Baleadas Express," was my response. I think she got a kick out of it, but I had to do it.

My apologies for failing to present more pictures. I was in a hurry and didn't want to lose sight of my luggage.

Baleadas Express gets a 5 out of 5 Baleada rating for consistency, quality, and variety. I also like that this is a Honduran franchise, bonus points.

Other baleada related posts:
Estelina's Buffet - San Pedro Sula, Mercado Guamilito
and
The Best Baleada in Honduras, an overview

Common Sights and Sounds in Honduras - Funny Signs III

noreply@blogger.com (carlosjmelgar) — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 18:00:00 +0000

Discover Honduras!

noreply@blogger.com (carlosjmelgar) — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 04:00:00 +0000

Discover Honduras!

This is a fantastic video about the marvels Honduras has to offer tourists. Check it out!

Common Sights and Sounds in Honduras: Funny Signs I

noreply@blogger.com (carlosjmelgar) — Mon, 26 Apr 2010 20:56:00 +0000

"Night of Daring [provocative] games
Come and have fun with our staff of daring [provocative] guys and girls

Crazy Tequila Minute 1.00 Lempira[per shot]
If it's your birthday, our staff will [help you] celebrate it"

El Progreso

D & D Brewery - Lago de Yojoa

noreply@blogger.com (carlosjmelgar) — Sun, 25 Apr 2010 12:45:00 +0000

D&D Brewery is one of the main attractions at Lago de Yojoa. Honduras' only (I think) micro brewery / hostel. This is the place most backpackers gravitate to because it's listed on travel books. I didn't get many pictures because I was busy having fun!

I only have two observations to make about this place. 1.) The beer is excellent and 2.) I was very pleased (and surprised) by the staff and their service. The difference between good beer and mediocre beer is obvious to even a novice beer drinker. The quality of beer didn't surprise me, I had already been made aware by 90% of backpackers traveling north through the hostel I managed in La Ceiba. The latter though, that was a shocker. I did not expect the owner and assistant to be as attentive and engaging as they were. I also don't expect to be handed a drink while I shop at Diunsa, or a shoulder massage after a haircut, (not anymore anyways) but it's nice to know that your patronage is appreciated.

Excellent customer service will increase repeat customers, it also allows you to gain insight from the customer's perspective. More importantly, the quality of service is a decisive factor in the Returning Catracho Report 5 baleada rating.

D&D Brewery: 5 out of 5 Baleadas

Blueberry soda, their dark brew (pictured twice) , and the pale

Pale and Dark

Thick onion rings

Common Sights and Sounds in Honduras: The Orange Peeler

noreply@blogger.com (carlosjmelgar) — Sat, 24 Apr 2010 12:38:00 +0000

I don't know who invented this orange peeler or when, but these are used everywhere in Honduras. Most commonly, you can find these at every mercado. I do know that they are manufactured in China.

Power Chicken Ribs

noreply@blogger.com (carlosjmelgar) — Thu, 22 Apr 2010 15:00:00 +0000

As is the case with Estelina's Buffet, a visit to San Pedro Sula is not complete without gorging at Power Chicken. Power Chicken is famous for ribs, their own hot sauce, and obviously chicken. The sides are delicious enough to compete for attention.

My indecisiveness at restaurants always leaves me to frantically skim the menu for a fourth or fif' time as everyone else orders. That was not the case at Power Chicken. The moment someone mentioned "ribs," I knew what I would have on my first visit. When asked what I would be having, I proudly announced, "Las Costillas."

I accompanied my ribs with fried yucca, or cassava. After receiving my meal, I happily began to walk towards our table (no waitress service). One of my friends stopped me in my tracks and redirected my eager trajectory to the sauces. Power Chicken also boasts a flurry of sauces to compliment your meal. The indecisiveness hit me like a locomotive.

I finally chose the chimichurri and a lightly pickled combination of tomatoes, red onions, and cilantro. Both toppings where spectacular. The yucca was deep fried to perfection... Yucca is like green plantains, I can't explain them as being amazing, but this yucca was the bomb! I was pleased with all of those decisions. Then, the ribs... I was shocked after the first bite. I expected barbeque ribs, but they were Terayaki ribs. They were amazing! Almost all meat, very little fat. Could this be a beef rib?

On the RCR scale, this place gets a 5 out of 5 Baleada rating for it's variety, service and quality.

Taxi! Part 2

noreply@blogger.com (carlosjmelgar) — Tue, 13 Apr 2010 11:56:00 +0000

If you enjoyed the first taxi post, Taxi! Por Afuera, then you'll enjoy the following set of pictures from Roatan taxis. I've captured some images of the lighting, decorations, mascots, and car freshener cocktails.

Taxi! - Por Afuera

noreply@blogger.com (carlosjmelgar) — Tue, 13 Apr 2010 11:47:00 +0000

It's been a long time... I shouldn't have left you...

My apologies to all five readers for the delayed post. I've been busy with some "projects..."

If you've had to rely on the colectivo taxis in Roatan, you know what I mean by "Por afuera" or "Por fuera." Wikipedia defines what a colectivo is well, but the concept is less organized in Roatan because it's an island with one highway connecting the four or five major areas.

When commuting to and from work, I only use a pair of guys I like, this also reduces my risk of death by head on collision. I can't always use them because they're rarely near my home when I call. If I don't want to wait, which I usually don't, I go out to the "pavimentada" and hail a cab. Sometimes after boarding, I regret not having the patience to wait for Gio or Manzanares, my two preferred drivers.

If you haven't been on a colectivo in Rotan, or speak Spanish. "Por afuera" means "from outside". As in, open the door from outside because the handle either doesn't work or doesn't exist inside.

Estelina's Buffet - Mercado Guamilitio, San Pedro Sula

noreply@blogger.com (carlosjmelgar) — Sat, 10 Apr 2010 15:55:00 +0000

I've read and heard people say "ir a San Pedro Sula y no comer donde Estelina es como no haber ido." (Visiting San Pedro Sula and not eating at Estelina's is like not having gone [to San Pedro]). I felt the same way before having heard or read that. It wasn't until a few minutes ago that I realized how iconic this establishment really is. Located in the landmark marketplace "Mercado Guamilito," it's an icon within and icon. This is also the home of the "World's Larget Baleada," I don't think that's a Guiness World Record, but nice bragging rights in Honduras.

(Read more about "Mercado Guamilito" here)

Estelina and her Baleadas are also considered the driving force behind the recent transformation of the "food court" area in Mercado Guamilito. The area currently being used for tortilla makers and food stands was previously used for produce stands. When Estelina began selling baleadas, in addition to produce, the demand for an area dedicated to food sales grew and it became what it is now. The tortilla area provides many restaurants and homes with fresh handmade tortillas.

I became a fan because of the excellent service, clean dining area, good food, big portions, reasonable prices and the overall presentation of the product.

The girls at Estelina's always greet you with a smile! OK, they didn't smile for the picture, but they are really nice and polite.

The dining area always surprises me. It's clean, well light, and nicely decorated, not what you expect to find at a "mercado".

Four varieties of scrambled eggs, beans (refried and "parados"), casamiento (rice and beans), pancakes, pastelitos.

No need for "in between" snacks with these portions.

If you only eat here once, you must have the Baleada there. The tortillas are perfectly made, not too thick so it opaques the taste of the contents and not too thin so the contents tear through.

In conclusion, Estelina's Buffet is a great place for good typical Honduran food. This alone should serve as a reason to visit the historic Guamilito market. Beyond the food, Estelina's is a great story. A humble produce vendor finding a niche with baleadas and developing that niche into a San Pedro Sula staple. This business has adopted excellent business practices seldom found in other Honduran businesses: friendly service, a variety of good quality products, efficiency (notice the stools that allow more customers to sit and dine), and great staff training, evident with up selling, greetings, politeness and willingness to accommodate your needs. The other thing that really jumps out to me is the fact that they have developed a "brand" complete with a logo, portraying the real Estelina, and cups rocking the logo and name. I hope other businesses in Honduras follow this example.

My rating: 5 out of 5 baleadas.

Business in Honduras - The Honduran Worker Part 1

noreply@blogger.com (carlosjmelgar) — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 06:01:00 +0000

B.O.B. (Bombs Over Baghdad) - Outkast
"before you re-up, get a lap top. Make a business for yourself, boy set some goals. Make a fat dime out of dust and coals"

I've spent countless hours discussing the problems with business in Honduras. I've spent even more hours studying "Business in Honduras". No not studying business at a university, I've been studying business here with a more "hands on" approach. I'm not an economist or expert on local business, but I can say that I have spent some time in various levels of business in Honduras. I also like to claim that Polache and the undercover boss T.V. show kinda jacked my idea, but I'm not worried about it because I've forgotten better ideas than that!

I've worked (for short experimental stints) as a cattle herder and yard worker in San Manuel and a coconut vendor on the beaches of Tela. Through these "internships" I gained valuable insight about the type of work that most Hondurans depend on and the living conditions they retreat to after work. I've worked as a teacher at a private school, which has allowed me to understand some of the flaws in our educational system. I've managed "accounting" departments for a resort and small retail chain, with terrible timing, as I learned how political sanctions (during the "coup") on an already impoverished country and a dwindling economy (world and local) can hinder business. My tenure as the manager of a hostel granted me understanding of the tourism industry and it's importance to our economy. All of these jobs gave me an opportunity to study the common procedures, or lack thereof, that are practiced (or not) in most businesses. More importantly, I've been blessed with the opportunity to discover what being "Honduran" really means.

Regardless of what industry you discuss; agricultural, tourism / service related, educational, manufacturing, etc..., EVERYONE has one common complaint: the workforce. No one voices that complaint louder that Gringos. I even complained about the same thing when I first arrived in Honduras (and still do sometimes). Gringos (and I) are accustomed to business in the U.S. and other developed nations. Nations that provide its citizens with top notch education and even work training for free. In these countries, everyone has an opportunity for advancement because hard work and dedication can level the playing field for anyone. Even people from trailer parks and the projects can climb the ladder if they have the will for it. It may be difficult, but nothing is impossible. Unfortunately, that's not the case in Honduras. We don't have many of those "feel good" stories about the Mc Donald's employee ending up as a Regional Manager. There is no opportunity for growth here, only survival. It's unreasonable to assume that people in Honduras will approach work with the same dedication.

"Hey, I started out mopping the floor just like you guys. But now... now I'm washing lettuce. Soon I'll be on fries; then the grill. And pretty soon, I'll make assistant manager, and that's when the big bucks start rolling in." - As funny as this seems, it's more than most Hondurans get!

Gettin it by Too Short
"Get your kids in school, so they can get an education, get a degree and take a vacation."

Getting paid and working conditions!
I've never been able to understand how people can survive on minimum wage (In the US or Honduras). When I lived in L.A., the California minimum was $8.00 per hour. This is based on a 40 hour work week, paid sick days and vacation time. California law also mandates two breaks and overtime pay; one 15 minute and one 1 hour lunch break per 8 hour shift in addition to overtime pay for work exceeding an 8 hour shift (time and a half after 8 hours and double pay after 12 hours). Minimum wage pay doesn't provide enough for a family to live on, but a single person gets by with approximately $1,000 / month. My rent alone surpassed that by $600, "that's crazy (Say it like Tracy Morgan)!!!" Even minimum wage employees in the US strive to do their best on a daily basis because you can stand out and snatch that opportunity to grow.

When I arrived in Honduras, minimum wage was Lps. 3,500 per month. That's $185.23 based on a 46 hour work week, usually with no breaks, no company sick days. Based on a 26 day work month, that's Lps. 134.62 ($7.12) per day with only four days off per month!!! Now factor in the travel expense of Lps. 20 - 60. Dayyyyuuuuum!!! The only way you can get compensated for sick days is by paying into social security (from that whopping salary), which employers detest. Overtime pay is a foreign concept even to the Gringos here. I've witnessed employers demand and expect (not request) an employee to work double shifts and compensate that second shift for a lower rate than their normal pay. In some cases, employees receive absolutely no compensation for working extra hours. Think I'm fibbing? Check out this article from the Bay Islands Voice (Click Here)

The Honduran minimum wage has been raised to Lps. 5,500 per month. A substantial increment (57.14%), but still far from enough for anyone to survive on. At first, I was completely opposed to the sudden increase. I worried about the negative effects on small business and the lay offs that would follow. Some businesses had to close their doors, some decided to lay off employees and extend hours for the ones that remained in order to survive. Other businesses decided to disregard the new laws and STILL pay less than the minimum. In some cases employers exploited the desperate need of employees by extending their hours and refusing to pay them a fair rate for the extended hours. They actually benefited at the expense of the labor force. So now, one person works twice as much and the employers pay less than what they would pay two people.

With these working conditions and compensation rates, it's no wonder why our economy is so dependent on remittances from our people in the U.S.

Our other sources of income stem from the exportation of produce (mostly bananas and coffee), tourism, and the slowly growing textile production or "maquilas". Ironically, these industries are the most infamous for exploiting and mistreating the Honduran workforce. How can we expect our agricultural, textile and tourism industries to grow if we mistreat the workforce that these industries are dependent on?

Do we really expect to diversify our economy with "call centers" and new production if we haven't been successful with the industries we've relied on for years?

From personal experience:
I worked at a resort as the Accounting Manager, I also lived there (For free? Hell nah!!!). When I arrived in May 09, my first task was to "close out the fourth quarter for 2008". WTF!!!?!?!?!?!

Let me put it in perspective: We were then in the second quarter of 2009 and I had to close out the last quarter for the previous year. This means that I had to generate maintenance billing (without any record of maintenance work or expenses) for October - December in 2008, and distribute rental income to the owners of the rental units. It is safe to assume that all the owners were pissed about the uncertainty of their rental income. Don't get it twisted, I wasn't being asked to solely focus on 2008's 4th Q, I also had to work on 2009's 1st Q and all the day to day responsibilities that go along with managing an accounting department AND trying to develop training material for my department (I was silly enough to think I would have time for that).

On many days, I would be in my office at 5 A.M., trying to get a jump on things without any interruptions from the day to day routine or co-workers. At 7 A.M., I would head to the restaurant for breakfast. On many occasions, I arrived there to realize that none of the servers came to work in protest of terrible treatment from superiors or they had simply quit. Always having my employer's best interest in mind, I would decide to tend to the restaurant customers vacationing at the resort so they didn't leave with a bad taste in their mouths. I would sometimes do so until 10 A.M., when the employees designated to the afternoon shift would (be pressured to) show up to cover for the absences (for no pay, of course).. I would then return to my office and often work until 9 P.M. (or later), eating my lunch and dinner at my desk.

Guess what I received in return for my work and dedication? It's not compensation for extra hours, guess again... No, not a "Thank you" either, try again... I was faced with penalty threats and insults!!! Nice...!

Getting unpaid - Penalties!
At the private school I worked at, speaking in Spanish was a $5.00 fine!!! I was supposed to teach British Literature to kids that didn't speak or understand English. WTF?!?!?!

It is common practice in Honduras to penalize employees for mistakes. At one place I worked, I was penalized $3 for voiding a check, even if it was the boss' fault!!! I was also penalized for failing to deduct an absent day from someone's pay, that same absent day was then deducted from the employee's next paycheck. So the employee missed one day of work, and two days of work were deducted from two different employees. Huh?! At that same place, I witnessed waiters and cooks being charged the sales price of menu items ($7 - 15) that customers were not satisfied with or even if they changed their order. Broken glasses and plates also resulted in fines. In other countries, these losses are accounted for as business expenses, not an employee's personal expense.

Lets think about this in numbers: If someone is getting paid $7.12 per day and gets penalized $10 for a returned order, the employee is working that entire day and a portion of the next day for FREE and the restaurant is still making a profit on their dish. Am I the only person thinking "modern day slavery?"

Prestaciones!
Prestaciones is the Honduran version of severance pay. Employers cringe at the sound of this word and are willing to jump through hoops to avoid paying them. Honduran employers seem to pay them, while foreigners would rather pay others to "fix" the problem with legal intimidation. Before becoming aware of the business practices in Honduras and living conditions of the general population, I was opposed to this concept. But now, after familiarizing myself with the work and living conditions, I'm all for it. In most cases, Honduran's only have what they get every pay day.

Imagine a Honduran with zero savings quitting or being fired. What do you think they will resort to with no work? Think hard... nothing yet? Well marinade in Kanye West's quote for a few minutes. This is from the song, We Don't Care; "We forced to sell crack, rap, and get a job"... That's in the hood, now imagine that same mentality adapted to the third world... What do you get? I think it would go something like this: We forced to sell crack, rob, extort, kidnap and hope for a job...

You may ask, "Why would someone accept this treatment?" Again, most Hondurans only have what they are going to be paid and that is it. We live our lives accepting that we have no rights. No freedom of speech, no employment rights, no legal rights, and to top it off - all our public officials have been bought.

My respect to all the Honduran's that continue to work honestly despite these conditions. To all the Honduran's that have decided to resort to crime, "I undastand"...

IZZO by Jay-Z
Like I told you sell drugs - No! / Hov' did that so hopefully you won't have to go
through that

Don't Feel Right by the Roots
If you ain't tryin' to get popped, then give me a option

Part 2!!!
I haven't started writing part 2 of God know how many, but it will focus on stealing... That's another common complaint from Gringos, in the words of TWO of my former employers, "Every Honduran steals." Apparently these people were not familiar with the saying "When you point a finger, four point back at you" or the fact that I too, am a Honduran; so you're spitting in my face when you say that. Maybe by that time they had forgotten that when employing me, one of the first things, if not the first thing, that I was made aware of, is the fact that they "have two sets of books; one for the Government and one for the business." In other words, tax evasion.

Are they stealing from the Honduran worker? Are they stealing from the average Honduran family? Are they directly influencing the quality of education that Honduran's receive? Are they partly at fault for the poor preparation of the future workforce? YES! YES! YES! and YES! - tsk, tsk, tsk

Before ANOTHER Gringo attempts to argue that they prefer to "keep that money rather than give it to the corrupt politicians because their money is used for better purposes." I have to say, that's like the pot calling the kettle black... Who determines whether or not your "charitable contributions" (that will be used as tax write offs in the US) really benefit the Honduran people? It's no big secret that some "charities" are the source of income for many of the foreigners running them, and I don't know about you, but I haven't seen any of those Gringos living like Hondurans...

I do have to state that some people genuinely try to help Hondurans by setting up REAL non-profits, but not all...

Every company I've done accounting for in Honduras has an expense account titled "Theft Loss", so yes, SOME Hondurans do steal, but this also the rug that all the losses from poor management are swept under. Don't worry Hondurans actually stealing will also be discussed as to not disappoint the Gringos...

Common Sights and Sounds in Honduras - Hitching a ride on the "paila"

noreply@blogger.com (carlosjmelgar) — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 15:25:00 +0000

I counted thirteen, but only twelve are pictured.

From Returning Catracho Report

Common Sights and Sounds in Honduras - Annoying pre-recorded salesman, Almacenes El Cachimbazo

noreply@blogger.com (carlosjmelgar) — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 20:56:00 +0000

The louder you play it, the more potential customers will flock to your business... NOT!!!

This is hilarious though! Please, please, please listen to the sales pitch! They have been bumpin' this for at least two years.

Part 2