Catch us online @ vallartatribune.com
Events
06
from here
10
Sept 8 - 14, 2016 Year 19 Free Issue 1014
Fiestas Patrias SCHEDULE
11
Riviera Nayarit TACOs!
FR
EE
G
U
ID
E
Photo by Archive
Life in la Cruz
welcome
02
Welcome to Puerto Vallarta
and Riviera Nayarit Here is some advice to make your trip a little easier and more enjoyable. TIME ZONE: The entire state of Jalisco is on Central Time, as is the southern part of the State of Nayarit starting from Guayabitos in the north. BUSES: A system of urban buses with different routes can bring you from one end of the bay to the other and all the spots in between. Current fare in Puerto Vallarta is $7.50 pesos per ticket and passengers must purchase a new ticket every time they board another bus. There are no “transfers”. TAXIS: There are set rates within defined zones of town. Do not enter a taxi without agreeing on the price with the driver first. Price is per trip not person. MONEY EXCHANGE: Although you may have to wait in line for a few minutes, banks will give you a higher rate of exchange than the exchange booths (caja de cambio). You will need your passport. Better yet, use your bank card to withdraw funds from any ATM machine. Note that ATM’s in the banks are the safest to use and generally charge lower fees. DRINKING WATER: For the 18th year in a row, Puerto Vallarta’s water has been awarded a certification of purity for human consumption. The quality of the water tested at the purification plant varies greatly from what comes out of the tap at the other end. So do be careful. If you want to be doubly sure, you can pick up bottled water just about anywhere. EXPORTING PETS: Falling love with the street dog outside your hotel or a puppy on the Malecon doesn’t mean they can’t come home with you. The process is fairly inexpensive and only takes a day or two. You need a certificate of health from a local vet among other things. The time of year that pets can travel in the cargo section of the plane may be your biggest challenge. For the most up-to-date information contact the Puerto Vallarta SPCA at spcapv@gmail.com. COMMON SENSE: Just as you wouldn’t walk around your hometown drunk and beligerent, it is not acceptable to do that here. While Mexicans are a forgiving bunch, basic politeness is appreciated. For the guys, peeing in public is a major faux pas and if you are caught, can get you tossed in jail or an expensive fine. Pay attention to your surroundings. Pay your bills. Be courteous. And have fun! DRINKING AND DRIVING: First off – just don’t. The consequences are not worth it. Taxis are cheap and plentiful. Fines are as much as 10,000 pesos. You can be taken to jail and your vehicle impounded. There are many checkstops on the weekends and you will be asked to blow if they suspect you have been drinking. LEGAL SYSTEM: Not knowing the law is not an valid excuse in Mexico or anywhere. If you find yourself caught in a legal situation be aware that guilt is presumed until your innocence can be proven. This is a very difficult lesson to learn if you are visiting from the United States or Canada in particular. Immediately contact your consulate for assistance. Director Noemi Zamora noemizamorareynoso@gmail.com Editor Lic. Madeline Milne mmilne@Vallartatribune.com Sales Team Rebeca Castellón rebeca.castellonn@gmail.com Information office ventastribuna7@yahoo.com Designer Cynthia E. Andrade G. cysandra@gmail.com cisandra@vallartatribune.com
Sept 8 - 14, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com
Calling in Mexico Calling phones in Mexico can be tricky as it is different than in the US or Canada. There are different codes you need to use depending if you are calling landlines or cellular phones and if they are local or long distance. Long-distance calls from within Mexico For national long-distance calls (within Mexico) the code is 01 plus the area code and phone number. For international long-distance calls, first dial 00, then the country code (for the U.S. and Canada the country code is 1, so you would dial 00 + 1 + area code + 7 digit number). Calling Cell Phones (from a land line) If you are calling from a landline within the area code of the Mexican cell phone number dial 044, then the 10 digit number including area code. Outside of the area code (but still within Mexico) dial 045 and then the 10 digit phone number. Cell phone to cell phone only requires the 10 digit number. Phone Cards Phone cards (“tarjetas telefonicas”) for use in pay phones can be bought at newstands and in pharmacies in denominations of 30, 50 and 100 pesos. Pay phones do not accept coins. When buying a phone card for pay phone use, specify that you would like a “tarjeta LADA,” because pre-paid cell phone cards are also sold in the same establishments. Calling Toll-Free Numbers Some toll free numbers work from Mexico to the US and Canada, but many do not. You need to dial a different prefix. To call the following toll free prefixes, dial as follows: 800 numbers Dial 001-880-then the number 866 numbers Dial 001-883-then the number 877 numbers Dial 001-882-then the number 888 numbers Dial 001-881-then the number
Emergencies: 060 Red Cross: 065 Non-Emergency Police 322.290.0507 Fire Department: 322.223.9476
Ahoy Cruisers! Day Ship 07-sep Carnival Miracle 13-sep Carnival Miracle 14-sep Carnival Miracle 21-sep Carnival Miracle 26-sep Costa Luminosa 27-sep Coral Princess 28-sep Carnival Miracle 29-sep Grand Princess
Passengers 2,124 Carnival 2,124 Carnival 2,124 Carnival 2,124 Carnival 2,828 Costa 1,975 Princess 2,124 Carnival 2,600 Princess
Ambulance: 322.222.1533
Consulates American Consulate Immigration: Nuevo Vallarta: 322.224.7719 322.222.0069 24 hrs Guadalajara: Consumer Protection: 333.268.2145 01.800.468.8722 Tourism Offices Canadian Consulate Jalisco: 322.221.2676 322.293.2894 Nayarit: 322.297.1006 24 hrs: 1.800.706.2900
In port this month
In the month of September Puerto Vallarta welcomes 18, 023 passengers!
Vallarta Tribune is an activity and entertainment guide and merely publishes information as it is provided by the advertiser or event host. We do not assume responsibility in errors or omissions other than to correct them as soon as they are made known to us regarding event schedules, locations and/or prices. In addition, we do not assume any responsibility for erroneous inclusion or exclusion of information except to take reasonable care to ensure accuracy, that permission has been obtained to use it, and to remove it as soon as is practical upon receiving your notification of error. We recommend you always confirm prior to attending or visiting an event or establishment. Weekly publication edited, printed and distributed by Ediciones y Publicaciones Siete Junio, SA de CV Grupo Editorial Tribuna Calle 21 de Marzo # 1174 Col. Lomas del Coapinole Del. El Pitillal, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco México CP 48290 Tel. 226-0800 editor@vallartatribune.com * www.vallartatribune.com * www.facebook.com/vallarta.tribune
editorial
03
Editor’s
Sept 8 - 14, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com
tropical storms seem to be lining up, and hopefully, our mountains will keep the worst of it out in the bay. Regardless, the rain and flooded streets are a real problem for garbage. Please keep your storm drains clear and pick up the trash before it hits the waterways. Have a great weekend and get out and enjoy the many events the
Note
city is hosting for Independence Day festivities. The Charro Parade along the Malecon is a cultural treat, unique to this part of Mexico, with regal horses, elaborate costumes and lots of skills on display. I highly recommend it! Safe Travels, Madeline
Letters to the Editor
editor@vallartatribune.com First, I have never had so many messages, emails about one topic in all my years doing the newspaper. You all take your crosswords so seriously! I’m not sure what went wrong with the puzzle last week but I’ve double-checked this week, and it should be as you have come to enjoy it in its entirety. The Tribune is published Thursday through Wednesday, so this issue is on the streets during the start of the Independence Day celebrations. They start Monday the 12th and run to the 16th with two additional civic ceremonies held at the end of September. For most of us, the Malecon will be the place to be, particularly Wednesday the 14th for the Charro parade, live music, and festivities. Thursday continues with fiestas in Park Hidalgo and Park Lazaro Cardenas that will feature live music, dancers, food and more until 11 pm when the mayor of Puerto Vallarta will recite the grito of Dolores Hidalgo. Friday the 16th has more parades, more dancers,
more music, and fireworks! Most events start at 6 pm but be sure to check the schedule of events in this week's paper. The grand opening of the new Sky Bar at Pinnacle was Friday evening with the who’s who of Vallarta and those of us lucky enough to get an invitation sipped cocktails and took in the spectacular view. The sky bar is open to the public after 5 pm or convince your friends and family to book a suite and you can laze in the luxury of the infinity pool while sipping another cocktail. The CANICA Breakfast fundraiser is on September 9th at the River Café. This breakfast is
SPCA of Puerto Vallarta
C
ome and spend a rewarding afternoon cuddling the animals at Puerto Vallarta’s SPCA Sanctuary. Our dogs and cats are awaiting “forever homes” and your help is needed to jump start their socialization. The goal is to get these animals adjusted and ready to interact in the real world. The majority of the SPCA animals either come from extremely abusive situations or they have been abandoned. Your love and attention can make up for that sad history. During your visit, you can interact with the animals and even take a dog (or two or three) for a walk.
During the low season (May through October), reservations to visit the sanctuary need to be made in advance. To make a reservation, contact us at spcapv@gmail.com. We appreciate any donations you can bring for our rescues and also please feel free to bring treats for sanctuary staff as they truly appreciate it. To see our animals available for adoption, visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/spcapv. Go to Photos where you will also find individual Albums for all the animals available as well as a bit of their history. Please be aware that our adoption fee within Mexico
$200 pesos and the funds raised go to support 22 families in Puerto Vallarta area whose children are suffering from Cancer. The money is used to pay for travel costs to Guadalajara for treatments as well as medications, special items and for five teenagers the trip of a lifetime to Disneyland. If you are in town, please consider joining the kids for breakfast – your support is greatly appreciated. Please call and make your reservation at The River Café at # 322-223-0788 or stop by and buy your tickets. Every time I have done laundry this past week it has rained. I’m sorry. The same sheets have been rinsed four times already. The
By Janice Gonzalez
is $1,500 pesos. To make donations via PayPal, select the “Donate” option on our Facebook page www.facebook. com/spcapv or on our website at http://spcapv.com/donate/. You can drop off any donations for the SPCA at Hacienda San Angel located at Calle Miramar 336, above Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in El Centro. Get involved…rescue, adopt, foster, volunteer, donate or educate. Contact us at spcapv@ gmail.com. You can learn more about the SPCA Puerto Vallarta by checking us out at www.spcapv. com/home or on Facebook.
Dear Madeline, I would like to introduce our fifth child who will be traveling to Disney at the end of September. Michelle Suravi Aparicio Rosas, a 14 year old teen who joined the Association Femenil Vallartense's CANICA Cancer Center, 10 years ago, when she was only 3 years old. She was diagnosed with a terminal tumor in her reproduction system. She had all her surgeries in The Civil Hospital, in Guadalajara where she continues doing follow ups as directed by her doctors. She is one of the oldest teens in the Puerto Vallarta Center of Attention to Children with Cancer. She is so involved with the younger children at the center, that she has taken the lead to involve them with many activities related with music appreciation, Michelle shares with some of the children who she invites to her classes and teaches them movements as some have lost their sight to eye cancer. She guides them and teaches them body movements. She takes music appreciation, ballet, jazz, belly dancing, musical theater, just loves music and can dance to anything. She is a very special teen, the other children love being with her. Michelle lives with her 4 year old brother and her parents in Colonia Joyas del Pedregal. Join us on the 9th of September at The River Café for breakfast and a chance to meet Michelle and all
our wonderful children. The event will raise funds for the 22 children in the CANICA center, for their medical needs. Their wish list includes: computers to learn all about the use of them, and a lab to learn English. A small library for the kids with a TV and table games. School has started and some of the parents can not pay for the books. We need to find friends to sponsor a child to help pay for the school supplies, food and transportation to school. A $10 dollar scholarship per month will help a child. Please be part of this opportunity, sponsor a child's education! Stop by and meet the children, they do need all the help we can get them. Madeline, I want to thank you so much for allowing your readers to learn about the needs of our children with cancer. My goal is to find 22 school scholarships during the breakfast. Dear reader, I hope you consider becoming a sponsor for one child. Muchas gracias, Aurora
Dear Editor. My wife and I have been fans of the Xiutla Folkloric Dancers at Lazaro Cardenas Park for many years. I read an article in the Tribune that said that the troupe is going to travel to Europe for three weeks, starting 11 August. We assume they are back by now. Are you planning to print an account of their trip? If so, when? We will be coming down for the winter at the end of October and will be looking for your coverage.
Thanks for a great newspaper. Two avid fans from NOTB. Ed. We will have a wonderful article the first weeks of November. If you aren’t yet in Vallarta, you can always read the paper online in its entirety at vallartatribune.com
news
04 91% of expats are generally satisfied with life in Mexico
M
exico has dropped a couple of places in a quality-of-life ranking by expatriates but is still No. 4 in the world. The annual Expat Insider survey by InterNations, a network and guide for expatriates, found that 91% of expats in Mexico are generally satisfied with life. For the third year in a row Mexico placed first for ease of settling in, and also scored well in subcategories such as Finding Friends, where it came first, and Feeling Welcome, placing second. More than four in five expats in Mexico feel at home with the local culture and 53% of respondents rated friendliness of the population as very good, compared to just 26% globally. Communication is not an issue for many, despite a language barrier: 63% agreed it was easy to learn Spanish.Not surprisingly, personal safety was a concern for many. Forty-two per cent said they felt it was a potential disadvantage in moving to Mexico compared to the global average of only 11%. For many, however, security
Mexico ranks No. 4 on quality-of-life index
Sept 8 - 14, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com
Peña Nieto Hopes Bank of China Will Soon Operate in Mexico
M concerns lessened after making the move. Fewer than one in five had a negative response about security. Expats were happier about finances and the cost of living. Mexico ranks eighth and fifth respectively on the Personal Finance and Cost of Living indexes and its expats are twice as likely to say they are completely satisfied with their financial situation. Worldwide, 36% of expats say the cost of housing is bad, but in Mexico the percentage is just 8%. Mexico ranks well for family life but the quality of education was rated by 13% as very bad compared to 3% globally. Children’s safety was
another concern. Thirty per cent of Mexico respondents were retired and 40% said they intend to stay in the country for the rest of their lives. Their average age was 50.6. The survey results are based on feedback from 14,000 respondents who offered their say on moving, living and working abroad in 67 countries. Taiwan was ranked No. 1, Malta second and Ecuador third. At the bottom of the index was Kuwait, followed by Greece, Nigeria, Brazil and Saudi Arabia. The United States placed 26th and Canada 12th. Mexico News Daily
exican President Enrique Peña Nieto said on Sunday he hopes Bank of China, the nation’s fourth largest, will operate soon in Mexico. His statement came at the beginning of a meeting with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping at the Guest House, where the two-day G20 Summit was inaugurated on Sunday and in which both leaders are taking part. During the meeting, the Mexican president stressed that the Asian banking entity had already received administrative authorization to begin activities in his country. Mexico already has the presence of Chinese bank ICBC, Peña Nieto said, referring to the world’s largest bank that received its license in 2014 and opened its first office in the country in 2015. The Mexican president stressed his country’s close relationship with China and advocated further strengthening it along the lines of the comprehensive strategic partnership established during Xi’s visit to Mexico in 2014.
Peña Nieto also noted that both countries have a binational fund for investment in diverse projects above $50 million. Xi said the two countries have benefited from ties in trade, finance, investment and energy, and expressed his willingness to jointly work with Mexico in forums such as China-CELAC (Community of Latin American and Caribbean States), according to state-owned Xinhua agency. According to a statement by the Mexican Presidency, the two presidents committed towards increasing bilateral trade – which last year increased to $74.9 billion – and expressed willingness to prioritize bilateral agenda in investments.
05
news
Sept 8 - 14, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com
The Punta de Mita Foundation presents the money from the conservation fund
C
ivil associations CALEV, which is dedicated to rescuing wildlife and ECOBAC, which works on the prevention, surveillance and humpback whale monitoring, received the $60 thousand pesos in the fund. On Monday August 29, 2016 the Punta de Mita Foundation symbolically delivered the moneys from the Conservation Fund to the grassroots organizations that were accredited as the winners for their conservation projects on Banderas Bay. The winning organizations were the Centro de Rescate de Fauna Silvestre, CALEV A.C. and Ecología y Conservación de Ballenas, ECOBAC, A.C. The event took place at the Banderas Bay Technological Institute. A total of nine organizations presented conservation projects in order to participate in the call, but only two of them will be able to access the $60 thousand pesos that were in the fund; the other participants received consultations on the structure of their projects and will be able to participate again in the future. “I’ve very happy to be able to award this money to grassroots organizations and asso-
ciations in Banderas Bay in pro of the conservation of the flora and fauna,” commented Lisa Schalla, Executive Director of the Punta de Mita Foundation. “We’re very excited to have had this opportunity.” CALEV A.C. is dedicated to rescuing wildlife including birds, land tortoises, marine turtles, crocodiles and other species in order to nurse them back to health and reintroduce them to their habitats. ECOBAC works on the prevention, surveillance and monitoring of the humpback whales in order to keep local watercraft and visitors informed about the rules and regulations that are in place to prevent any harm or harassment of these cetaceans, which visit the bay constantly. Both associations seek to give back to nature and build a better society together with the environment. In the interest of transparency, the partnerships will request receipts for the work, and the Punta de Mita Foundation will then pay the suppliers directly. The Conservation Fund thrives on donations and sales of the Viva Natura Field Guide.
Enjoy a Margarita Pizza and bottle of red wine for only $350 pesos
The day you have all been waiting for is finally here! Your favourite Italian restaurant
reopens Thursday, September 8th. Open from 5-11pm Venustiano Carranza 276 Zona Romántica 223 2267
The World on Your TV
El Mundo en su TV is offering an about everything on our website at internet streaming device that allows almost all TV channels in the world (over 100 from the USA, thousands from Europe; over 80 countries in total), that are being streamed live, to be available on your TV, with no monthly fees.
www.elmundoensutv.com. If you are interested in our device, that is completely portable, please contact us to offer a demonstration of the capabilities.
We offer to demonstrate the unit in your house or condo, free of charge. You would also have almost all live If you wish a demonstration in our sporting events, all movies and all TV office, that is free of charge. series. Again, with no monthly fees. The purchase price is 1800 Pesos. The most important aspect is this is If you decide to purchase it with a completely internet-based; you have to personal installation and demonstrahave 7 Mb/S of speed, more is better. tion, the additional charge is only 200 In my office, we only have 7 Mb/S and Pesos. it works fine. If you are unsatisfied after 7 days, I will With 10, it is like watching TV, Period. refund your entire amount paid. The I also offer a complete manual of how installation charge is not refundable. to truly enjoy this experience, as well as instructions on how to even make Tel. 221 0111 Local 20, it better for you. We provide YouTube Las Palmas 2, Marina Vallarta. videos, as well as written instructions todd@remaxinpv.com
w w w. e l m u n d o e n s u t v. c o m
local
06
Paradise
From
and Parenting
Here
Marcia Blondin
Leza Warkentin
marciavallarta@gmail.com
mommyinmexico.wordpress.com
The Lone Wolves
T
W
hat a celebration last week at Casa Karma! With the exception of siblings, I haven’t even KNOWN anyone (that I still talk to) for 52 years, never mind being married to the same person! An impromptu party sprang up to celebrate Gholi and Georgia Darehshori’s anniversary around the bar at Casa Karma. Originally the intent was to have a few guests over and dance; the impending storm held off but a close conversational evening evolved instead and was happily enjoyed by all. Georgia’s own words in an email to me sums up the entire night beautifully: “Gholi and I are very practiced at celebrating and we do it very well: 52 years of celebrating everything from an A on a test when I was still a student, to a milestone occasion; this was among one of our most memorable celebrations....thanks to the beautiful energy gathered around us.” Thanks from all of us who attended your party – great idea, Gholi! Last week’s column about the turtle release at Sapphire Ocean Club created quite a buzz among friends and colleagues who have never witnessed or participated in this often once-in-a-lifetime event. Michel Pascal Ferrari will inform me of future releases and if the timing works out you will read about it here and can make plans to attend and participate right down on Los Muertos Beach. Just when you think Vallarta can’t possibly squeeze in one more bar, along comes an invi-
Sept 8 - 14, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com
tation to the inauguration of Sky Bar at Pinnacle. Superlatives haven’t been invented yet to describe the view. If any ex-pats out there have family coming to visit this coming season, put them up at this amazing one-, two- and three-bedroom Pinnacle Resort. All have full kitchens, washers and dryers, and barbeques; you won’t have to go out anywhere. The Sky Bar’s very inviting infinity pool appears to roll right off the edge of the building (along with my vertigo!). There’s a wellstaffed bar, palapa, and cosy corners with covered beds that were oh, so comfortable just to sit on. Luxurious? Whatever word supersedes that, yes! This Thursday, the 8th, Paco Ojeda’s monthly musical series continues at the Los Mangos Library. This week, Paco will bring us “Grandes Vocalistas de Jazz”. Join me at 7 pm to be amazed and amused by what you will hear and see in Paco’s well-researched 90-minute musical appreciation event. Please plan to donate at least $30 pesos for the library. With all that jazz; that’s it, From Here.
here’s been a lot of awareness and interest raised lately on the rare breed of humans known as introverts. I think that the purpose of the awareness-raising was to help people understand introverts better, but it’s a bit ironic because the last thing that introverts normally enjoy is being in the spotlight. I come from a long, eerily quiet line of introverts, who somehow found others with whom to marry and procreate before turning back to their basements and comprehensive cable packages. We are a large, highly creative family afflicted with what could probably be classified as a clinical phobia of the telephone. My husband and most of his side of the family also tend toward introvertism and creativity. There are many gifted musicians among them, most of whom mainly enjoy playing their chosen instruments where nobody else can hear them. When our children were little, we would spend entire shared vacations off the grid, seeing no one, calling no one, living in our own lovely, quiet bubble. It did occur to me that, if something horrible happened to us, it would take an odd smell wafting out of our windows before anyone would know something was out of the ordinary. It wasn’t really that surprising, then, that our children both demonstrated some of these characteristics early on in their lives. They are very different personality-wise, so there are characteristics unique to each child, and yet all point the way toward a certain level of introvertism. My son, my oldest child, can be very outspoken and tends toward strong, immovable opinions. However, once he’s had a full day of school or socializing, he comes home and seeks out activities that involve being completely alone. He keeps his friend circle tight and small, and is intensely loyal to the friends he has. Once when he was eight,
I dropped him off at a soccer birthday party. When I returned, I couldn’t find him on the field, or with the other children who were taking a break. I was getting worried when I saw a small, lone figure walking along the edge of the large soccer field. When I caught up to him, I asked what he was doing. “Just waiting for you so I could go home, mom”, he answered. I asked him if something had happened, if he had gotten hurt. He said he hadn’t, and that he had had a great time. I could see that his social batteries were drained, and he wanted to go home and recharge them. My daughter, my youngest, has a wide circle of friends and loves to spend time with them. She enjoys parties, but if the group is too large, she tends to fade into the wallpaper. She did not speak to any of her teachers until she was in senior kindergarten, and has always had to force herself to raise her hand in class. At her kindergarten gradua-
tion sleepover, she was stung by something and didn’t tell anyone. She barely slept the whole night, but didn’t complain to a single soul. When we picked her up in the morning, she shut the car door and began sobbing. She showed me her foot, which was a throbbing, hot little appendage. As we raced to our pediatrician’s office, I asked her why WHY didn’t she mention it to anyone. She couldn’t tell me why, but I already knew, because I too would also have suffered in silence when I was five and labeled “shy”. As an introverted adult, I recognize and have learned to get along in an extroverted world. I am aware when I need to burrow into my blankets and watch Homeland on Netflix, and I know when it’s time to go out and enjoy the friends I am lucky enough to have. I also acknowledge that there are very few pure introverts and extroverts, and that we all have a combination of traits for each of these types. I think it’s important to understand what our children need and also what they enjoy, so we can teach them how to cope with the challenges of life in a society. My kids need people, but they also need time to themselves. If I can teach them how to figure out how to self-regulate these needs, I am raising kids who can contribute to the world with the very best of themselves. And maybe who can build a really cool hidden cabin in the woods for their parents.
Adorable Dog In The Spotlight... by Janice Gonzalez rusty
Here is a sweet little guy who would be the perfect addition to a loving family. Rusty, a Terrier mix, is just two years old and weighs 29 pounds. He is a playful young guy who just loves a good game of fetch. Rusty is good with other dogs but he doesn’t really like felines. He was rescued from Bucerias where we believe he was dumped along with two other dogs. He was scared and sad when we picked him up, hoping his family would come back. Rusty has settled in well at the sanctuary and he has been dewormed, neutered and fully vaccinated. Now we just need to find him that perfect fur-ever home. If you would like to take this sweetheart home, contact us at spcapv@gmail.com for an application.
local
07
The Reportable Taco— Traps for the Unwary by Orlando Gotay, Tax Attorney
I
f you are a U.S. person engaged in a Mexico business, it is important you become familiar with cash reporting requirements from the IRS and the Treasury Department’s Bank Secrecy Act. If you are required to report a transaction, you’d better know early on, before Uncle Sam figures you did not. A trade or business that
Mexico’s Independence Day - September 16:
M
exico celebrates its independence every September 16 with parades, festivals, feasts, parties and more. Mexican flags are everywhere and the main plaza in Mexico City is packed. But what’s the history behind the date of September 16?
receives “cash” above a certain amount must mind reporting requirements. If any part of the provision of a good or service or receipt of payment takes place in the United States, it may be reportable. A Mexico transaction may look like it is “outside” the United States, but if there is one teeny tiny bit in the U.S., it counts just
like one done entirely within the U.S. There is room for nuances and interpretations here. The key dollar amount to remember is more than $10,000 or foreign equivalent. Breaking payments in smaller amounts to avoid reporting is, as you imagined, prohibited. Also, cash may be more than “cash”. One thinks of the typical envelope stuffed with “cash” but the definition is broader in some cases. If the items sold are consumer goods (a taco is not a “consumer good” but a car or fancy electronics can be), or collectibles (such as gems, rugs, wines, coins, art) or travel/entertainment, then cashier’s or manager’s checks, traveler’s checks or money orders (but not personal checks) count as “cash”. So, one can have a transaction
Sept 8 - 14, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com
in Mexico with not a single dollar in “paper currency” that could be reportable, again, if it “hits” the U.S. in any way. Because they were mostly crafted in a patchwork fashion, these rules are unfortunately way too complex and easy to miss. Worse, more than one type of report can apply to the same transaction. A well-meaning person can file a report and still fall short in some other category. Nonetheless, the government places the burden on the persons responsible, and that may be you. For example, there is another entirely different report required if one transports currency above $10,000 in or out of the United States. Also, you could be considered a “financial institution” (with yet
Viva! Mexico
Iturbide which allowed for Mexico’s definitive liberation in September of 1821.
Mexican Independence Celebrations:
Prelude to Mexican Independence: Long before 1810, Mexicans had begun to chafe under Spanish rule. Spain kept a stranglehold on her colonies, only permitting them limited trade opportunities and generally appointing Spaniards (as opposed to native-born Creoles) to important colonial posts. To the north, the United States had won its independence decades before, and many Mexicans felt they could, too. In 1808, Creole patriots saw their chance when Napoleon invaded Spain and imprisoned Ferdinand VII. This allowed Mexican and South American rebels to set up their own governments and yet claim loyalty to the imprisoned Spanish King.
Conspiracies:
In Mexico, the creoles decided the time had come for independence. It was a dangerous business, however. There might have been chaos in Spain, but the mother country still controlled the colonies. In 1809-1810 there were several conspiracies, most of which were found out and the conspirators harshly punished. In Querétaro,
an organized conspiracy including several prominent citizens was preparing to make its move at the end of 1810. The leaders included parish priest Father Miguel Hidalgo, Royal army officer Ignacio Allende, government official Miguel Dominguez, cavalry captain Juan Aldama and others. The date of October 2 was selected for the insurrection against Spain to begin.
El Grito de Dolores:
In early September, however, the conspiracy began to unravel. The plot had been found out and one by one the conspirators were being rounded up by colonial officials. On September 15, 1810, Father Miguel Hidalgo heard the bad news: the jig was up and the Spanish were coming for him. On the morning of the 16th, Hidalgo took to the pulpit in the town of Dolores and made a shocking announcement: he was taking up arms against the
tyrannies of the Spanish government and his parishioners were all invited to join him. This famous speech became known as “El Grito de Dolores,” Or the «Cry of Dolores.» Within hours Hidalgo had an army: a large, unruly, poorly armed but resolute mob.
March to Mexico City:
Hidalgo, assisted by military man Ignacio Allende, led his army towards Mexico City. Along the way they laid siege to the town of Guanajuato and fought off the Spanish defense at the Battle of Monte de las Cruces. By November he was at the gates of the city itself, with angry army large enough to take it. Yet Hidalgo inexplicably retreated, perhaps turned aside by fears of a large Spanish army coming to reinforce the city.
Fall of Hidalgo:
In January of 1811, Hidalgo and Allende were routed at the Battle
another set of reports) and not know it. A travel agency is my favorite example of a “financial institution” (yes!), as are businesses in vehicle, boat or airplane sales, or persons involved in real estate closings and settlements. Uncle Sam casts its nets far and wide. Make sure you know what reports are required for the activities you engage, and you will be all right. Orlando Gotay is a California licensed tax attorney (with a Master of Laws in Taxation) admitted to practice before the IRS, the U.S. Tax Court and other taxing agencies. His love of things Mexican has led him to devote part of his practice to the tax matters of U.S. expats in Mexico. He can be reached at tax@orlandogotay. com. Consult your tax advisor.
of Calderon Bridge by a much smaller but better-trained Spanish army. Forced to flee, the rebel leaders, along with some others, were soon captured. Allende and Hidalgo were both put to death in June and July of 1811. The peasant army had disbanded and it looked as if Spain had reasserted control over its unruly colony.
Mexican Independence is Won: But such was not the case. One of Hidalgo’s captains, José María Morelos, took up the banner of independence and fought until his own capture and execution in 1815. He was in turn succeeded by his own lieutenant, Vicente Guerrero and rebel leader Guadalupe Victoria, who fought for six more years until 1821, when they reached an agreement with turncoat royal officer Agustín de
September 16 is one of Mexico’s most important holidays. Every year, local mayors and politicians re-enact the famous Grito de Dolores. In Mexico City, thousands congregate in the Zócalo, or main square, on the night of the 15th to hear the President ring the same bell that Hidalgo did and recite the Grito de Dolores. The crowd roars, cheers and chants, and fireworks light up the sky. On the 16th, every city and town all over Mexico celebrates with parades, dances and other civic festivals. Most Mexicans celebrate by hanging flags all over their home and spending time with family. A feast is usually involved. If the food can be made red, white and green (like the Mexican Flag) all the better! Some people mistakenly believe that Cinco de Mayo, or May Fifth, is Mexico’s independence day. That’s not correct: Cinco de Mayo actually celebrates the unlikely Mexican victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. Sources: Harvey, Robert. Liberators: Latin America’s Struggle for IndependenceWoodstock: The Overlook Press, 2000. Lynch, John. The Spanish American Revolutions 18081826 New York: W. W. Norton & Company, 1986.
Visit the Marsol Hotel Summer Market by t
By Gary R. Beck
E
very year in late summer and early fall, the chile en nogada appears on restaurant menus across Mexico. The star ingredients, walnuts and pomegranate seeds, are not readily available any other time of the year. So it’s a festive time. With Mexican Independence Day right around the corner (on Sept. 16) the dish is pretty much the culinary centerpiece of the celebration. The name comes from the Spanish word for walnut tree, nogal. It consists of poblano chiles filled with picadillo topped with a walnut-based cream sauce, called nogada, and pomegranate seeds, giving it the three colors of the Mexican flag: green for the chile, white for the nut sauce and red for the pomegranate. The traditional chile en nogada is from Puebla. It is tied to the independence from Spain and is said they were prepared for the first time by the nuns of the convent of Santa Monica for a feast to celebrate Emperor Agustín de Iturbide. He was a military
Viva Mexico! The Patriotic Dish: Chile en Nogada
VALLARTA GARDENS commander who fought in Mexico’s War of Independence, and the celebration was on the occasion of his naming as Agustín I in 1822He was travelling back to Mexico City from Veracruz after signing the Treaty of Cordoba which granted Mexico its independence. The season for making and eating this dish is in August and the first half of September when pomegranates appear in the markets and the national independence festivities begin. It is not a usual
combination, many will turn their noses up at meat and fruit as a combination, but it is a traditional dish and one that is worth a try. Difficult and time consuming to prepare, chili en nogada is a proud example of the tradition and complexity of much of Mexico’s cuisines. Gary R. Beck publishes the most complete restaurant guide in the Bay of Banderas. You can purchase a copy of Beck’s Best Puerto Vallarta Restaurant Guide at http:// w w w. c a f e p r e s s . c o m / vallartaguide
the Pier every Friday 9:30 am to 1:30 pm
independencia
10
MONDAY SEPTEMBER 12th
EVENTS
Sept 8 - 14, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com
THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 15th
TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 13th
FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 16th WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 14th
Parade Parade
TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 27th
FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 30th THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 15th
riviera nayarit
11
Life
In La Cruz
Bucerias Art District Beat
By Cindy Bouchard
By Gordon Mayer
W
Meet The Tacos Linda Family
hen I want to feel like I’m in Mexico, really in Mexico, I visit La Saranderia restaurant on Playa Manzanilla in La Cruz. I dig my toes into the sand; I order a margarita and devour their namesake dish, Saranderia fish. Every family has their unique version of this delectable yummy and the Galvez family serves up one of my faves! Sometimes I mix it up and order another of their signature dishes; shrimp or red snapper. When we go as a group we often share the ‘mountain’ of seafood. It is so fun, often there's Mexican music; mariachi and more, it’s like I’ve entered another world! My gal pals and I call it going ‘shopping', where the jewelry ladies custom make earrings, bracelets and necklaces as per our preferences. La Saranderia not only has the most fabulous food and breathtaking calm beach, they also offer a beach club which includes lounge chairs, palapas, music, and of course, great service. They’ve now added a boutique to the mix, selling all things beach; toys, bathing suits, sunglasses and more. Some call it ‘the Mexican beach’, as the clientele is mostly nationals, playa Manzanilla is located just under the Real del Mar development on the hill and just down the beach from Las Palapas. It’s easy to get to with a short beach walk or by driving. Only open from 11am – 8pm; you must go during the day to enjoy their seafood and Mexican food; burritos, guacamole, quesadillas. This winter season they’re adding live music (classic rock) from 3 pm to 7 pm, especially for our American and Canadian friends. Fer Galvez is the manager and family representative but he hasn’t always lived here. From Ocotlán, Jalisco, he moved to the area six years ago to run the family business but also he says, “I like the beach and the opportunity with the business and this place is comfortable”. Galvez says the Marina Riviera Nayarit has helped the town as
Sept 8 - 14, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com
H did the recent tianguis cultural. He loves the clean beaches and the work that Amigos de la Cruz does. He’d love for La Cruz to stay a fishing village. Before coming to La Cruz, Fer lived in Puerto Vallarta and worked for Tecnológico de Monterrey then moved to work in the family bakery Espiga de Oro also in Vallarta for eight years. He most enjoys “sharing moments with our customers, working on the beach, and sharing Mexican food with our international customers.” Fer told me “It’s been a good year for business” Their clientele is made up mostly of Mexican locales but Canadian and American vacationers are coming more and more to Manzanilla Beach and his restaurant. He’s inspired by “My family, my staff and all the visitors who enjoy what we offer”. Living in a beachfront town he enjoys surfing, paddle boarding, fishing, diving, and his favorite is his swimming. He likes to cook fish both at home and in the restaurant. Fer supports Amigos de la Cruz, and is a member of the Asociacion Restaurantera de Riviera Nayarit. His favorite quote is “Live and let live” and if he had a magic wand he’d like La Cruz de Huanacaxtle to “always be a happy and clean town”. Fer’s proudest of “My family, my restaurant and my community!” Fer invites everyone to come visit, “because it’s a beautiful place, the sea is incredible and the people are friendly”. I couldn’t have put it better myself!
ome is where the heart is.” This long-used phrase has repeated a truth that has persisted for generations and that has found translation in every language and dialect that cares to put a phrase to the feeling of being ‘home’. Along the Lazaro Cardenas, in the heart of the Bucerias Art District, there is a nondescript door and subdued but elegant signs that will lead you to a home away from home, Tacos Linda. Upon entering you will be greeted like guests to their home, not only because all the staff feel that way about each guest they receive, but also because the space you enter is the front courtyard of their family home of 38 years. The décor is simple and functional because the emphasis is on you the guest and creating for you a delicious and satisfying meal. Sitting to chat with Linda, the owner and namesake of Tacos Linda, and her son, Kino, your server and host, I am immediately reminded that I am not simply another face who has stopped by as Kino pops up from the table to retrieve for me some mosquito repellent noticing that I was scratching a fresh bite (my how these Mexican mosquitos love my French-Canadian gringo blood!). This is their focus, engrained in them from years of family tradition and cooperation. This is Mexico and you, my friend, are at their casa and “su casa es su casa”
for the time you spend with them for dinner. When asked why she started Tacos Linda 5 years ago with Kino, Linda is not hesitant in her
response, “My passion is my kitchen, my cooking.” With no tutor other than her own desire to cook and create fantastic flavours with traditional Mexican spices and dishes, Linda has put together a menu that with have your taste buds singing appreciation. Kino mentions that a number of guests have suggested bottling Linda’s signature spices for mass production and expanding operations, perhaps even a chain of restaurants. But wiser patrons have encouraged the family to keep Tacos Linda as it now is, perfectly personal. While this writer would agree that having the taste of Tacos Linda on the shelf at home would be wonderful, I am unsure whether any manufacturer can duplicate the love and care with which each dish and sauce is made. On the idea of expansion, this is first and foremost a family business, something Linda is equally vehement to express, so while we would be delighted to have Tacos Linda all across Mexico, there is only one Linda, and duplicating her desire to make great home –cooked meals and the subsequent result, would be nigh on impossible. It is worth the visit for the atmosphere alone. Wear something casual and cool, bring your own beer or wine, don’t worry Kino will tell you “we don’t judge” with a quick smile. In high season you may have to wait for a few minutes to enter, but you will be surrounded by a temporary familia. It will make you want to stay for sure, but once you taste the food, you will want to move in permanently! Kino says this is “real Mexico” and this writer agrees. The tradition of hearty, tasty food and gathering around the family table is alive and well at Tacos Linda. Home is most definitely where the heart is, and the heart of Tacos Linda is worn on their sleeve and shared with each guest and on every plate. Thank you for sharing your home with the Bucerias Art District Linda and Kino and all the Tacos Linda family.
VALLARTA SHOPPI
Marsol Market by the Pier
W
e are happy to present Sandi’s new creations, debuting this Friday at the Marsol Hotel. As well as interesting jewellery, Sandra makes bags – not unusual in itself – but wait until you see what you can carry in them! This time of year, especially, it’s hard to walk your Chihuahua – the sidewalks are hot enough to melt glass, and you thought small dogs walked fast because their legs are so short! Finally, you have to pick them up and hold them when they sit down and refuse to move on over the hot coals. Or, it starts to rain. If you are shopping your hands are full – how do you manage opening an umbrella, holding a dog and juggling a purse? It’s impossible, or at least, not fun. Sandra has designed bags big enough to hold your pooch comfortably. They come with an attached matching handbag and additional straps to go around your midriff to balance the weight. These come in three sizes with the largest capable of holding 10 kilos more or less. She will create a bag for you, using suitable durable fabric in colors you want and that don’t clash with your puppies coat. The best thing
about this bag? Your hands are free! Another cool item that Sandra creates are dresses with matching handbags; the possibilities are endless and beautiful! We are so happy to welcome Sandra to the Marsol Market by the Pier. Bring your dog by Friday for a fitting! If you have ever been sunburned – badly – it is misery personified. For those unfortunate days when you are suffering, try some of Ricardo Mazcal’s lotion. Not only will the pain disappear, the ingredients – all natural – will soothe and repair your damaged, screaming skin faster and safer than any chemically-laden product currently available. All of us are eagerly waiting to see you this coming Friday from 9:30 to 1:30 at the Marsol Market by the Pier.
INTERNATIONAL FRIENDSHIP CLUB
Can you help, please?
Each winter IFC runs its Home Tours. All profits from the tours are used to support IFC’s cleft palate program, its nutrition program and many local charities. We are always looking for new, interesting homes to show. If you would open your home to us for two hours, once a month, we and hundreds of needy kids would appreciate it.
Thank you – Muchas gracias!
Contact: Henry Golas … hrnry462146@gmail.com
www.ifcvallarta.com 322-222-5466
Day Pass 50% off PRESENT THIS COUPON
Are you selling your home?
Over 50,000 readers each month with delivery from Mismaloya to Sayulita and the only paper distributed at the airport in International arrivals. Contact editor@vallartatribune.com to learn more!
Wheeling Vallarta Segway Tours
Towel service / Pool / Lounge chairs Delightful cocktails / Superb Bistrot menu Pet-friendly
Fine Art and Furniture
MEXICO
www.sapphire.mx
Expires October 31, 2016
Malecon 1, Playa Los Muertos
Located across from McDonald’s
322-223-8014 31 de Octubre 107 Col. Centro Puerto Vallarta Malecon
ING AND SERVICES
www.vallartatribune.com
Three Hens & a Rooster Market News
P
at Wagner is holding over her half-price/ throw-pillow sale for one more Market day. You also need to stock up on her amazing jalapeno jam/jelly as she is off to the States in a couple of weeks and won’t be back until November. Have you seen Pat’s wine bags? They are being cleared out to make way for new fabric she will be buying up north. A stylish way to show up at a party with a bottle and leave a lovely hostess gift behind. Pat has added more new plus-sized clothing in her boutique. Come early for pound cake with lemon-lime/cheesecake frosting! Ticker the Mage is selling some rare Irish marble fashioned into earrings and pendants. Photographs do not do them justice – beautiful. Gloria Sue – our Jewish
Mama – continues to make fried chicken and matzoth ball soup weekly. Please, please PREORDER (Gloria Sue on Facebook) by 4 pm Thursday at the very latest; if you do that your order will be ready and waiting! A chicken/Waldorf salad will be on the menu this week as well. Bill Kelly is getting ready for Day of the Dead, which is coming up fast! Aprons full of dancing ghouls and dazzling banshees make off-the-wall unique presents to someone you love… like yourself. Three Hens is being added to, expanded, and gussied up each and every week. There’s always something – someone – new. Come by for coffee and a chat; you are welcome to bring your dog(s). Three Hens & a Rooster Market is every Saturday 9 to 1 at Venustiano Carranza 46
“Remodeling and Renovations”
Juarez 599 El Centro 322 222 1383, 322 111 6359 www.colibridesignvallarta.com galeriacolibri@gmail.com
entertainment
14
Sept 8 - 14, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com
Ricardo “Pancho” Gonzáles Mexicos Gift to the game of tennis By Fred Jacobs
R
icardo Gonzáles was born in 1928 to parents who had emigrated from Chihuahua Mexico to Los Angeles. He was the eldest of six brothers and sisters, in a happy, working class family. Early on, Ricardo hated the nickname “Pancho” because of social prejudices associated with the nickname and against Mexican-Americans in general…almost 100 years later and not much has changed unfortunately. When he was 12 yrs. old, his mother bought him a 50 cent tennis racket from Woolworths. He took an almost immediate interest in the tennis, but in 1940, long before Television, tennis was a very exclusive sport. Lessons were expensive and many tournaments were held at private clubs-many of which restricted minorities from getting in. So Pancho basically self-taught at first, but this could only get him so far. He was a promising junior in LA, which was the tennis capital of the US at the time, but frustrated by the exclusionary times of the sport, Pancho began acting out. He started ditching school and was even arrested at the age of 15 for burglary. Pancho ended up joining the Navy in 1945 for 2 years. Once again civilian, Pancho resumed trying to break into the tennis world. By the time he was 19, Pancho was 6’3” and had reflex and reaction times that were god given talents. He towered 5 to 6 inches above competitors and quickly began to stand out. Back then, the pros and amateurs played in separate tournaments. He surprised several high ranked amateurs in impressive tournament showings and quickly earned himself a # 17 US amateur ranking. Pancho was starting to break down the barriers in tennis, for minorities. In the last major tournament of the year, he beat three internationally known names, before losing in the semifinals to Ted Schroeder. The head of California Tennis Association was taking note of Pancho, and arranged for some minor sponsorship to help with travelling costs to tournaments for the next year. In the 1948 United States Championships (now the US Open) Pancho was seeded # 8. To the surprise of many, he won the
final fairly easily in a straight-set victory over the South African Eric Sturgess. The New York Times said, “the crowd cheered a handsome, dark-skinned Mexican-American youngster who smiled boyishly each time he captured a hard-fought point”. This was Poncho’s only major victory of the year, but it was enough to let him finish the year ranked as the #1 amateur in the US. In 1949, Pancho did badly at Wimbledon, where he was seeded second but lost in the fourth round. When Pancho returned to the US Open in 1949, he successfully defended his crown, by beating the heavily favored top seed, Ted Schroeder. Again Pancho finished the year as the #1 ranked U.S. amateur. Bobby Riggs signed Pancho to the professional tour, but his first year was a big change for Pancho, losing 96 matches and only winning 27. Losing changed Pancho from a friendly, happy youngster to the hardened loner he became known as for the rest of his life. The professional tennis tour was like a travelling show of tennis at the time and was a hard life for players. It was a job and you had to win or you were out. Pancho was not ready for it and had no idea how to live or take care of himself. He was a hamburger and hotdog guy and had no concept of diet in training. On the court Pancho would drink Cokes throughout matches. From 1951 to 1953, Pancho was in semi-retirement. He used his tour money ($75,000US) and bought a tennis shop which he ran while playing in short tours and occasional professional tournaments. In spite of his infrequent play, Pancho managed to get his diet under control and to raise his game to a higher level than ever. Pancho was again signed to the Pro tour and would be the dominant player in men’s tennis for the next 7 years, beating such tennis greats as Tony Trabert and others on a regular basis. In his professional career, Pancho won the US Open 8 times, Wembley in London 4 times and the Tournament of Champions 3 times. He dominated in Pro tours, by beating all of the best amateurs turning pro, including every Wimbledon cham-
pion for 10 years in a row. In 1969, Pancho would play in the longest Wimbledon match ever- 5 hours. The match was so long, it lead to the introduction of the current day tie break scoring. Pancho was 41 yrs. old playing 25 yr. old Charlie Pasarell. Charlie won the monster first set 24–22 after which it was getting dark and Pancho argued with the referee they should stop play. The referee declined and Pancho virtually threw the second set, losing it 6–1. The referee then agreed the players should stop for the night. The next day, Pancho the fiery competitor surfaced with trademark vengeance. The final score
of the 5 hr. match was an astounding 22–24, 1–6, 16–14, 6–3, 11–9. Pancho went on to be beaten in four sets by Arthur Ashe. But the match with Pasarell is still remembered as one of “The Ten Greatest Matches of the Open Era”. The record length match would stand for over 40 years, until 2010. After that pro season, Pancho got a sweet job as Tennis Director at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. The job lasted for 16 years until 1985, when he was fired after refusing to give lessons to the wife of his boss. Pancho’s personal life was equally stormy as his on court life. Pancho married and divorced six times and had nine children.
Pancho married his last wife Rita in 1984 (32 years his junior and a former tennis pupil) who is also the sister of tennis great Andre Agassi. They too divorced 5 years later. Following a 10 month battle with cancer, Pancho died on July 3, 1995 in Las Vegas at the age of 67, in poverty and almost friendless. He was estranged from all ex-wives and children with the exception of Rita. Andre Agassi paid for his funeral. Pancho had a drive to win, a cannonball serve, and a dominant net game which lead him to be #1 in the tennis world for 8 years. Fred Jacobs is a full time resident of Puerto Vallarta and the author of 3 books.
Christ Church by the Sea Worldwide Anglican Communion
Services Sunday 10:00 a.m. Air-conditioned Now! Services held each Sunday year around English-Traditional Holy Communion All faiths welcome-Casual Dress Across from airport, northbound service road next to Sixt and Thrifty Car Rental Blvd. Fco. Medina 7936, Puerto Vallarta Questions? Call Father Michael cell: 044-322-303-3916 e mail kpadresoy@outlook.com
www.ChristChurchByTheSea.org www.IglesiaCristoDelMar.org
15
games
Sept 8 - 14, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com
Not In Town? SUDOKU SOLVE!
Read the Vallarta Tribune each week online at VallartaTribune.com FB/vtatribune