Report #1 - July 3, 2009

 

Buenos dias from Huancavelica!

 

We landed safely at Jorge Chavez International and were greeted by YAV Katie Rains, and PCUSA mission coworker Jed Kobbal.  After a restful night sleep in Lima, and our LAST hot shower, we boarded our bus to HVCA.  It took......... a while.  Though there were some minor headaches, and pains due to altitude, we may be the first Peru Crew to make it up the into the Andes saans puke (although Staffa did request a bag at one point- however not put into action).

Along the route to HVCA, we were treated to a nice lunch with our sisters the Filomenas in La Oroya, site of the Doe Run mining extraction plant that many BSPC members have been involved with.  The area is consider one of the 10 most polluted areas in the world.  Currently, the round table group that is fighting the pollution in the area, which includes Joining Hands, continues to make efforts to raise awareness of the issues at hand.  Sadly, both Doe Run and the government of Peru have not yet enacted major sweeping changes to the area.  Although, a recent strategy currently being discussed by Peruvian officials, would bailout employees with a stimulus check, rather than the mine itself.  Doe Run insists they don't have the money to make necessary environmental changes, and actually have shut down production for the last few months.  So, strategists believe if they can grant financial assistance to the workers, this may prompt Doe Run an d Rennert Corp to sell, which could bring in a new owner, willing to make the changes.  And if they start production again, this may be a clear sign that the company is not in as dire circumstances as they insist.  We will stay tuned to hear the development.  Jed optimistically states, ¨I feel like pressure is building, and before the end of the year something is going to give.¨   

Our final stop was in Huancayo for a quick dinner pit stop.  Some travelers opted for burgers and fries, and we all enjoyed fine Peruvian soup after it was graciously spilled all over the floor.  We'll see how that sells in the morning.  We won't name the culprit, just ask John Sutton when we get back.

Upon late arrival to HVCA we all hunkered for some rest, and were greeted by ceremonial clog dancing from hotel guests on the second floor, as well as garbage trucks celebrating the holiday season with the melody, ¨Oh Christmas Tree.¨

 

A quick breakfast this morning, and we are all now headed to our work site.  We hope you all are well, and miss you tons.  Stay tuned for more updates.

 

Desde Peru, con amor,

 

Evan Porter- Back Home Communications Director
Nathaniel Sutton- Photojournalist
Will Alexander- personal assistant of aforementioned studs

and all of Peru Crew V

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