Red Passport Cover

Mexican ID cards have the support of police

22.02.12

Facts Mexcan consular ID

The Mexican consular ID, or matricula consular as it is known in Spanish, is a form of registration for Mexican nationals living within the jurisdiction of a particular consulate office.

The Mexican Consulate in San Francisco covers a region that includes 13 counties in Northern California and all of Alaska, Oregon, Washington and Hawaii.

The most significant security measures have been implemented since 2005, including creation of a national database to track IDs issued from consulate offices in other states, and 20 different security features, including holograms, similar to other forms of ID, such as passports.

The required documents Mexican nationals need for obtaining a consular card include: an original Mexican birth certificate or a certified copy; an official Mexican ID with photograph, such as a Mexican passport, a military service ID, a Mexican voter ID card or a California or Mexican driver's license; and proof of residence, such as a utility bill, rental agreement, banking document or work pay stub.

Source: Santa Rosa Press Democrat

Take a hike in Vegas

22.02.12

My favorite hiking haven in Vegas is Red Rock Canyon . Located only 15 miles west of the Las Vegas Strip, it’s a world away from neon lights, slot machines and everything else that constitutes Sin City. Red Rock is home to incredible rock formations shaded in rich crimson and orange hues, just like the name implies. It’s open year round, and the hours vary with the season. The entrance fee is  $7 per car and $3 for motorcyclists. An annual pass is $30. Entry is free for bicyclists and hikers who park at the loop entrance. A map is provided at the fee area that lists 19 different hiking trails and other information like picnic areas or where you can see a waterfall (provided that there’s been enough rain). If you want to get some history about the area before you hit the trail, stop by the visitor’s center. Here you can learn about the area’s wildlife and the geological forces responsible for the red rocks. There are numerous hiking trails at Red Rock that range in difficulty from easy to advanced. All of the trails are located within a scenic 13-mile loop. Even if you don’t feel like hiking, the scenery can still be enjoyed with a leisurely drive through the loop. Various lookout points are located along the loop where you can stop and take in the view. Make sure to keep an eye out for cyclists and runners while you’re driving. Many people like to get their exercise right on the loop. Dogs are allowed on the trails, but they should be kept on a leash.

Source: Lights Vegas Action (blog)