Tourism is picking up in Nuevo Progreso. Yesterday the sun was shining and it was 85 degrees, making it perfect for shopping. Store awnings and shades made from canvas created a dark tunnel effect on the sidewalk, blocking the sun and making it cooler. Vendors had stands of wares near the curb leaving a narrow pathway through which we walked; and even this pathway was crowded with people trying to sell things. Accordion music and the smell of food being grilled was overwhelming.
Mexican soldiers armed with weapons threaded their way through this crowded shopping area. It was a reminder that just below the surface danger remains in Nuevo Progreso. They strolled single file between the stands and stores. Their presence didn't seem unusual or out of place, but comforting and reassuring. They were patrolling the area, making sure nothing malicious threatened the shoppers.
When driving back across the international bridge into Texas, we were directed to enter a narrow roped off area with five other vehicles. The officials instructed us to get out of our cars and stand behind the guard rail near the office. A large truck equipped with ex ray vision drove slowly past our vehicles, scanning to see if there were any weapons hidden inside. It took just minutes for our vehicles to be scanned, but only random vehicles were examined while others were directed to pass through another lane.
These events were very dramatic and serious. It's not every day that we rub shoulders with armed military guards while strolling through shopping areas. And even though we appreciate the added precautions taken at the bridge, it felt strange to be checked over with such extreme criminal based technology. Meanwhile there have been no further incidents to disrupt the peace in Nuevo Progreso.
The picture shows our friend Poly who has a jewelry stand on the west side of Avenue Benito Juarez.
