Issue 1015, September 15 - 21, 2016

Catch us online @ vallartatribune.com

News

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dengue vaccine

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Sept 15 - 21, 2016 Year 19 Free Issue 1015

Events GASTRONOMICA

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Riviera Nayarit Amigos de Bucerias

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Photo by Archive

Featured property pg. 13

VIVA MEXICO!

welcome

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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 15 - 21, 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

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Sept 15 - 21, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Editor’s

Note

editor@vallartatribune.com

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ince this paper comes out Thursdays, we will have missed deadline to get photos of the popular Charro parade in this week but be sure to check back next week for some great shots of all the horses and their riders. I always find the little kids in their costumes to be the most adorable. On November 20th when they dress up as little Poncho Villas with penciled in bigotes (meaning mustache and it’s my favourite word in Spanish) … oh, be still my ovaries!

The CANICA breakfast at River Café was a huge success! Thank you to everyone who turned out.

Because of your generous support, five children are traveling to Disney for a trip of a lifetime, and all of the children in the CANICA program have received scholarships to assist with the schooling costs.

Do you love Tacos? That’s a silly question, I know. Of course, you do. And for this reason, you should put on your stretchiest

elastic waist pants and head to park Lazaro Cardenas in Old Town on Friday evening from 6pm-midnight for the second annual Feria de Tacos. Around the park, you will find a dozen or more taco vendors grilling up some of the most delicious two-bite morsels you can get this side of the Ameca. Coinciding with Independence day festivities, there will be music and dancing and the usual colourful displays of local Mexican culture. Not to be missed! In fact, I would go early in fear that it will be sold out.

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can find them on Facebook at / vallartacowork If you haven’t ever been a part of a turtle release (or even if you have), then on September 21st, come by the Sapphire Ocean Club at the far end of Los Muertos beach to experience this miracle of nature. Free to the general public, these adorable baby turtles are released around 8:30 pm (at sunset), cocktails at 7:30.

Pitayo is launching their canvas and cocktails parties at the Spanish Experience School starting on September 24th For just $300 pesos you get a canvas, paints, cocktails and some instruction. The

theme this session is Japanese koi fish. You can also find more information on Facebook.

Now that should keep you all busy through these few slower weeks. Remember this is a tough time for those who work for tips.

Support local businesses where you can. Your pesos can make a big difference in the lives of our Mexican neighbours. Say no to the straw – Sin popote, por favor! Use your two lips as intended and you should have no problems. Enjoy your yourselves while being kind and generous.

Safe travels, Madeline

Letters to the Editor

SPCA of Puerto Vallarta 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.

Are you one of those special people who ‘works’ from home while traveling the world and living this glamorous lifestyle of luxury and leisure? Would you like to be? Learn more about the world of digital freelance at the next meet-up hosted by the brainiacs behind Vallarta CoWork on September 20th. The last event was packed with lots of Vallarta’s who’s who. It’s a great event for both networking and tips and tricks on navigating the digital freelance world. Be sure to RSVP – you

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

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 have no words to thank you enough for your contribution by providing information on The CANICA fund raiser. It was a success; we met many new friends, and many who join us every time we invite them to our breakfast.

The Canica Children will have their annual trip to Disney, thanks to the friends who believe in providing happiness to the children with cancer.

We had some members of THE PUERTO VALLARTA CLUB SUR, who kindly provided scholarships to the children with cancer, which will enable them to register for the 2016

school year. The children will be able to buy school supplies, food, shoes, bus fair, uniforms books, and lunch money. It was an exciting moment when the members of the Puerto Vallarta Club Sur, gave the donation.

We raised money for medical needs, and the scholarships for the first time will provide an education for the CANICA Children.

Thank you. Thank you. Thanks to everyone who is helping to improve the lives of these children.

They deserve the best as they are very special to us all.

Thank you Madeline Aurora

news

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million doses of Dengvaxia have been received in Mexico. The roughly 30,000 victims of dengue each year in Mexico could soon get some respite now that the first-ever vaccine against the mosquito-borne disease has arrived.

Developed by French pharmaceutical firm Sanofi, Dengvaxia was granted approval last December by Mexican authorities. A first lot of 1 million doses is now available in Mexico, said Guillaume Leroy, vice-president of the dengue business division at Sanofi.

The French firm is also in the last stages of obtaining an additional approval from the General Health Council which would allow it to supply the product to public health institutions such as IMSS and ISSSTE and that operated by Pemex.

“We’re in the last formalities for the vaccine to be included in the basic package of medical care by public institutions,” stated Leroy, without offering an estimate of when it would be available to the broader population.

The Sanofi representative

Mexico among first to get dengue vaccine said that Mexico is one of the first countries to get the vaccine, which is available through doctors and clinics.

According to the Federal Commission for Protection Against Health Risks (Cofepris), the vaccine could prevent over 8,000 hospitalizations and 104 deaths each year, representing savings to the public health system of 1.1 billion pesos (US $58 million).

The same governmental agency reported that 32,000 cases of dengue were registered in 2014, representing a spending in medical care of 3.2 billion pesos (about US $250 million), an amount that represented 2.5% of the public health sector’s 2015 budget.

The rate of dengue infections in Mexico has maintained an upward trend in recent years, although officials figures show the number of cases in 2015

was 27,178, 5,000 fewer than the previous year.

“According the World Health Organization and the Pan American Health Organization, the number of dengue cases in Mexico has increased by 9% in the last 20 years,” said virologist and dengue specialist José Ramos Castañeda.

Leroy affirmed that with the dengue vaccine the risk of related hospitalizations can decrease by 80% and the risk of severe cases requiring intensive care by 93%.

It can also prevent 65% of new cases of infection, and is effective against the four known types of dengue virus serotypes.

Sanofi’s annual production capacity for Dengvaxia is 100 million doses.

Dengue is transmitted by Aedes aegypti, the same mosquito that carries chikungunya, zika and other diseases.

Original:mexiconewsdaily.com

Sept 15 - 21, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Airlines respond to unshackling of U.S.-Mexico market

By Robert Silk his winter will see a significant increase in the number of flights between the U.S. and Mexico in the aftermath of the liberal air agreement that went into effect between the North American neighbors in August.

By Aug. 30, airlines had scheduled and put on sale a net increase of 32 services for this coming November through March compared with 2015, according to the aviation data analytics company OAG. A service is defined as a specific city pair flown by a specific carrier.

By comparison, OAG data showed an increase of a dozen U.S.-Mexico services in the winter of 2015 compared with a year earlier.

“It’s quite interesting that there have been a number of city pairs added year on year,” OAG senior analyst John Grant said. “There

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has to be a relationship to the new agreement between the countries.”

Under the agreement, there are no limits on the number of carriers that can serve any city pair. The previous U.S.-Mexico arrangement limited routes to three airlines from each country.

Among those that have recently added U.S.-Mexico routes are major U.S. carriers Southwest, American and Delta.

Frontier is offering 10 U.S.-Mexico routes this winter compared with six last year, though by reducing frequencies it is actually lowering its total flight count.

The Mexican low-cost carrier Interjet will increase its U.S.Mexico routes by two, while Volaris, another Mexican low-cost carrier, has upped its city pair offerings between the two countries to 50 from 43.

Airlines are offering a net increase of seven LAX-Mexico

05 services this winter, 15% more than previously.

Aviation industry analyst Bob Mann of R.W. Mann & Co. said that the extra competition means there will likely be good fares on U.S.-Mexico flights in the coming months.

Open for conjecture is how many of the new offerings will continue in the long run and how many will be canceled due to oversupply.

“I think there will be some tactical low fares there,” Mann said.

“They may turn into systemic low fares, at which point some of that capacity may go away.”

Grant said that inevitably airlines will reevaluate their U.S.Mexico offerings ahead of next summer and before the winter of 2017-18.

“Some of [the services] are undoubtedly a result of airlines attempting to take market share from existing airlines,” Grant said.

“But some are also using data and have identified city pairs where people have had to fly indirectly.”

Original: www.travelweekly.com

news

Sept 15 - 21, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Eagle Wings donates over 2.5 million pesos to local groups

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he Eagle Wings Foundation provides assistance to charitable groups in the Puerto Vallarta area, Nayarit, and los Cabos with the support of Villas Group Resort, contributed a total of $2,591,200 to thirty-two Banderas Bay area non-profit organizations.

The Eagle Wings Foundation made their annual contribution to Banderas Bay area civil associations late last month, with Mayor Arturo Dávalos Peña, and his wife, Candelaria Tovar de Dávalos, the president of DIF Puerto Vallarta, in attendance.

Local associations that received monies include: Ahora es Tiempo de Dar, ANSPAC, Asilo San Juan Diego, Ayudemos a Vallarta, Banco de Alimentos, Becas Vallarta, Casa Hogar Máximo Cornejo,

Clínica de Rehabilitación Santa Bárbara, Dives In Misericordia.

Guerreros contra las Adicciones, Horizonte de Paz, Mamás Unidas por la Rehabilitación de sus Hijos, Pro Biblioteca de Vallarta, Refugio Infantil Santa Esperanza, SETAC, and Torpedos and Piratas de la Bahía Youth American Football league.

The event was also attended by the Eagle Wings Foundation's Chairman of Inspection and Surveillance, Juan Carlos Rios; the Directors of Eagle Wings, Sara Cardona and Cesar Sanchez; and representatives of the 32 Puerto Vallarta civil associations that benefitted.

"Thank you for giving us these donations and especially this year's because it allows us to continue working with Familias Unidas con

Valores. With this support we can bring the AMSIF program to more women who will have the opportunity to improve their self-esteem and learn skills that help generate an income for their families.

Enjoy a Margarita Pizza and bottle of red wine for only $350 pesos

Enjoy a glass of red wine and spaghetti with tomato sauce for only $130 pesos Open from Wednesday to Saturday 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.

The children will also benefit from the support with scholarships and PAID programs, and help our them continue with their studies and getting good grades," says DIF President Candelaria Tovar de Dávalos.

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

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“Free” Learning

From

Here

Marcia Blondin

for You

by Orlando Gotay, Tax Attorney

marciavallarta@gmail.com

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aco Ojeda’s Musical Appreciation series at the Los Mangos library was almost full last Thursday! There to listen to Paco’s take on Jazz Singers (among others) were: Jorge Dau, owner of the Jazz Foundation; Al and Barbara Garvey, tango (and jazz!) aficionados; Music producer Carlos Santana of PRO Santana; Jovany Jara from Ropero de Jovany, the hot new vintage store on V. Carranza; the amazing Argentine couple Luis and Andrea better known as Bohemia Viva; lovely Lucia and Antonio, Paco’s most loyal fans and in charge of the library’s Cine Club; Vallarta’s bon vivant Alain Perreault and a number of students and others like me trying to understand the difference between a ‘vocalista’ and a ‘cantante’. Paco’s next event – all about the harmonica - will be the second Thursday in October (the 13th). I will have more details as the date approaches.

Vallarta CoWork is holding their second ‘open house’ with a panel of “Internet Nomad” freelancers on Tuesday, September 20 from 6 to 8pm.

Their last presentation was packed, so reserve your space

Sept 15 - 21, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

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on Facebook now.

There is no charge and you are bound to learn some marketing tricks and useful information.

They are located at Morelos 101, upstairs over Santander Bank; just before the bridge heading from Centro.

My friend and colleague, Ricardo Mazcal, lamented the fact that our favourite outdoor lunch spot on Fca. Rodriguez had no signage so he had one made. Look for LUPITA’S sign just off Constitucion and order the shrimp quesadilla’s; they are fabulous!

El Patio de mi Casa is on vacation so my part of El Centro is quiet at night.

See everybody Thursday night at 11 pm at the Main Square for “El Grito”. This is easily my favourite Mexican fiesta. Thousands and thousands of people packed together screaming VIVA in response to our mayor’s recitation of Hidalgo’s speech with the addition of “VIVA VALLARTA” that will leave you deaf for days, followed by the National Anthem, church bells, fireworks and general blissful partying into the wee hours of September 16th. You might as well just stay up and watch the parade.

With one final VIVA! that is it From Here.

f you are of “a certain age” you knew education as an activity that took place in er, classrooms.

Bells rang, and one shuffled from room to room. At least that was part of my routine, a bit over 30 years ago at the U.S. Naval Academy.

It is a huge understatement to say that the Internet has revolutionized many things and education is certainly one. Early on, few schools provided online courses and perhaps not having the best caliber. Today, most accredited institutions of higher learning provide really great online courses, which of course, allow folks like you and I to go to school far away --without setting foot in a classroom.

I was intrigued by the possibilities that distance learning can provide, coupled with the Lifetime Learning Credit. Credits reduce

your tax bill, dollar for dollar. Many folks complain about their tax bill, and paying money to Uncle Sam. What if I suggested that you might spend some of it (you would anyway) getting something in exchange of your choosing right away?

The credit allows you to save up to $2,000 per year on your tax bill. It is twenty percent of the first $10k in “qualified education expenses”--- to me, a 20% “gift” is a lot of tacos.

The student can be you, spouse or dependent. Courses can be to pursue a degree, a recognized education credential (neither is required) or to acquire or improve job skills (whatever that means).

Virtually all accredited public, nonprofit, and private postsecondary institutions qualify. My favorite: community colleges. Some

institutions outside the U.S. qualify as well; it is important to check ahead of time. At a minimum, tuition paid to the school counts as an expense to figure the credit.

Sometimes, books and other items may be included, too.

Students do not have to be enrolled “full time”. A mere “half time” load for at least one “academic period” (whether that’s a semester, a quarter, or other school unit) is all that is needed.

Of course, there are limitations to the credit. For example, if you earn too much, the credit may be either reduced or not available.

Still, it is a fantastic way to get some learning under your belt, or to help your spouse or dependent get the gift of education—from you and Uncle Sam. Brag about your newfound knowledge, cerveza in hand! IRS Publication 970, Tax Benefits for Education, has all the details.

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.

VALLARTA TO THE NORTH AND SOUTH Sayulita – A short 45 minutes north of the Puerto Vallarta International Airport, Sayulita is the surfers mecca of Riviera Nayarit.

A funky town with a wonderful protected beach, this laidback town has a hippie vibe with the organic cafes and the yoga studios to prove it. Visit the Huichol Cultural Centre for some wonderful hand-made beaded jewelry or grab a surf lesson from one of the many vendors on the beach.

Bucerias - Named for the oyster divers that dot the shore in front of the beach, this town is a mecca for snowbirds, most which seem to be of the Canadian Goose variety. Freshest seafood in the bay and a selection of excellent local bars and restaurants, this little town is plenty of fun. On Thursday evenings during high season there is the entertaining Artwalk and during the day plenty of galleries and a couple markets

great for souvenir shopping.

Conchas Chinas The south of Puerto Vallarta is a thick jungle full of adventure and excitement. Head south along the 200 highway and you will find the architecturally inspiring community of Conchas Chinas. The beach cove here is excellent for snorkeling.

Nogalito The first town South is that of Nogalito. Set back in the jungle it is a charming Mexican village that also is home to one of the most popular day tours - the Canopy Mundo Nogalito Tour with the only tunnel zip-line in town. If you’re feeling the heat, stop at the Punta Negra bridge and take a drip in the river.

Lovely fresh water, lots of little pools to splash in and rocks to dry off on. If you’re lucky, a vendor will come by with snacks and drinks - otherwise pack your own.

Mismaloya 15 minutes further is Mismaloya, a small town set back from the water along a river that leads to the ocean and a number of beach restaurants. This bay looks onto Los Arcos and is a great place to grab a panga boat for a tour of the impressive rocks. If you have time, book a snorkel or dive trip. This is one of the deepest ocean valleys in the world and home to turtles, whales, dolphins and the bluefooted Booby. Back behind the town, check out the Vallarta Zoo where you can play with baby monkeys, tigers and lions.

Boca de Tomatlan Boca de Tomatlan is the last town along the ocean and the place to grab a boat to the small beach communities of Quimixto, Las Animas and the very popular Yelapa. Looking for romance - book a table at the nearby Le Kliff for spectacular views and sunsets.

local

07

Paradise

and Parenting Leza Warkentin

mommyinmexico.wordpress.com

Families of Mexico

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f you asked me what I love most about Mexico, I would put on my finest pair of pink spectacles and roll out a list longer than the world’s longest churro.

Which, by the way, was 252.62 feet (these are things I enjoy knowing), so that’s a lot of love.

I won’t lie and say Mexico is problem-free, because if you are a person on planet Earth and you sometimes read a bit, you know that is not true. But I chose (and continue to choose) to live here, because for me and my family, the problems are outweighed by that churro-beating list. One of the items on that list is Mexican Independence Day. If you’ve ever been in Mexico at 11pm on September 15, you would remember it well. Your gaze can’t avoid (even if it wanted to) the bright combinations of red, white and green on public buildings, souvenir carts, and people.

Crowds fill every available public space. There are spicy, delicious smells wafting out from all the food

carts lining the streets and plazas.

Children are running about, wildly over stimulated and covered with streaky paint that originally began on their faces. People on every street corner are attempting to outdo Miguel Hidalgo’s cry of independence that originated on the steps of his church in Dolores.

It is loud and glorious. It is Mexico at its most Mexico. In other words, it is absolutely magnificent.

Our family loves to go to the celebrations.

Well, in theory. The problem is, unfortunately, that my son and I are both a bit claustrophobic, so the crowds sometimes make the idea of celebrating a great deal more attractive than the actual celebrating. The other problem is that most celebratory days require music, and therefore my husband is often required to work on these

days.

If he isn’t, and if The Boy and I can work up the courage, we find ourselves a spot on which to view the fireworks and join in on El Grito. Everywhere you look, you will find other families doing the same.

And here we arrive at what is number one on my list: the emphasis on family life in Mexico.

One of the things I love about being married to a Mexican man is that, to him, Sunday is Family Day and it is top priority. He turns down gigs if he feels it will interfere with Family Day. If you go out on a Sunday in Vallarta, you will look around at the beach and realize that many Mexican families have gathered themselves up and set themselves down under a giant, temporary gazebo with abuelos, sobrinos, tios, and a whole lot of ceviche.

If you cut it too close to your flight time when flying domestically, you will find yourself biting your nails behind families of ten, traveling to DF to see a sick hermano who needs some support and some caldo de pollo.

People here work hard, but they know when it’s time to rest, and they also know that the rest they need is always better when it’s con la familia. And many families here know what it means to be there for each other when there’s trouble.

Nowadays, families around the world don’t always look the way they did fifty years ago. My constant refrain to my children is “Every family’s different.”

No one knows this better than they do, members of a bicultural family with a half brother and sister living in Canada with their mom. They have friends whose parents are divorced, friends who were adopted, friends with no children, friends who have two dads.

They know how different families can be. But they also know that every family loves, and every family celebrates, and every family matters. Most of all, they know how wonderful it is when we can all do that together.

So this year, let’s celebrate the Mexico that welcomes us all to her family table, from those who were born here to those who came across her borders, wide-eyed with wonder.

Let’s celebrate the Mexico who will proudly gather her diverse, beloved families together on September 15 in every plaza all over this great country.

Viva la familia, of every beautiful kind. And Viva Mexico.

Sept 15 - 21, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Wellness Latina Marcella Castellanos

info@wellnesslatina.com

Have you had a tune-up?

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ust like your car needs it's oil changed every now and then, so do you! Doing an internal body cleanse at least four times per year is common practice - once with every change of season. This allows our bodies to renew and cleanse as it helps to remove any toxins that exist from stress, lifestyle choices, and even environmental factors.

According to Ayurvedic medicine, the traditional holistic medicine of India, fall is the perfect time to cleanse and release the stored heat that the body has accumulated over the summer months. Otherwise, if the heat is not released in the fall, weight gain, poor digestion, fatigue, sickness, and flu is likely to occur in the winter months.

Emotionally, if the heat accumulates in the body and is not released, nervousness, stress, and feelings of irritability and anger are likely to occur.

In Chinese medicine, there is a similar principle. The fall represents a time of release and letting go it's best to cleanse the lungs and the large intestine as every organ is related to an emotion. The lungs represent grief and sadness while the large intestine represents guilt and regret.

You know how our taste changes and the foods we eat change with the turn of the seasons? We go from cold, fresh fruits and vegetables to more warm and hearty meals. In Vallarta, we mostly stay with the cold options, but whether you're here, or travelling abroad, doing a cleanse or a clean eating program can help prepare your body for these changes and withdraw any toxins or build ups created from the hot summer months. No one wants to walk around feeling radioactive.

Some signals your body may alert you to let you know it is time clean out may include allergies, digestive problems, fatigue, acne or other skin issues, bad breath, bad circulation, headaches, bloa-

ting, and weight gain. Not fun. By doing a simple cleanse, detox or cleaning eating program you should see immediate improvements and benefits including better sleep, more energy, improved digestion, clearer skin, weight loss, and even a reduction in cravings.

Tuning up with a cleanse will also help prepare your immune system for the exposures to come, especially with the hyped up kiddos going back to school. Typically the fall cleanse focuses more on the lungs and large intestine, which are important for circulation, heart health, and proper digestion.

Here are some general tips to help with your cleanse: 1. Try to eat primarily whole foods.

We need to remove processed and refined foods from our diet and focus on clean eating.

2.Check out some detox/cleansing teas and broths to amp your detox/ cleanse.

3.Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Focus on increasing water intake to flush out your systems.

4.Go toxin-free with your soaps and cosmetics. Toxins are absorbed into the skin just as easily as they are consumed through your mouth.

5.Lower or reduce your stress levels through meditation, yoga, or some other form of exercise.

6.Reduce or eliminate alcohol from your diet.

That's it! If you're wanting to do something like this in a group setting, I've gotcha covered. The Fall in Love With Clean Eating Program starts Oct. 1st!

Check the details at wellnesslatina.com

My mission as a bilingual Certified Holistic Health Coach is to empower you to look and feel amazing through my health & wellness workshops and online programs by incorporating whole, natural foods; fun movement; and plant-based solutions with essential oils. For my blog or a list of my upcoming programs and workshops, and for your FREE e- guide, "Don't Go Broke Buying Organic Food," visit my website at www. wellnesslatina.com.

VALLARTA GARDENS

events

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Sept 15 - 21, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

The US Coast Guard Cutter CGC SHERMAN visited Vallarta

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his is the second visit of this Coast Guard Cutter to Puerto Vallarta. The Sherman is now based out of Honolulu Hawaii but is on patrol along the Pacific Coast presently. She was based out of San Diego on her first visit.

Fourteen of the crew including the Captain STEVE WHITTROCK volunteered to paint the common room at the Corazon de la Niña.

The Puerto Vallarta Navy League has as one of its primary goals to meet and greet all of the ships of friendly countries that choose to visit our most beautiful port. Part of the welcoming is to invite the chiefs and officers (including the crew when numbers allow) to Murphy’s Pub located in the town center.

The PVNL treat the sailors to food and grog with considerable indulgence by JON MURPHY who

is a retired Coastie and although not Irish has the heart of one.

The PVNL also organizes a work project in the community and requests volunteers from the crew to participate. Once the work is completed a treat of a meal is proffered and this time at Corazon de la Niña.

Here is an extract from the website of Corazon de la Niña which explains what they are all about. The head mistress a Canadian is a dynamic individual who is not only the founder but the driving force behind this wonderful endeavor.

Changing the course of history… …one child at a time Fundación Corazón de Niña — Heart of the Child — is a regis-

tered not-for-profit organization (Mexico) that provides a nurturing family environment for at-risk girls and boys of all ages. We typically have thirty-eight to forty-four children and youth aged four months to twenty-three years.

About two-thirds of the children are girls.

We have two homes in Puerto Vallarta — one for the girls and one next door for the boys.

We survive on faith, our wits and the support of many beloved individuals, businesses and service organizations…

Fundación Corazón de Niña is entirely dependent on its loyal supporters for funding. We receive no stipends from local and state governments, themselves desperately short of funds.

Fundación Corazón de Niña is the only residential resource for girls over the age of fourteen in Puerto Vallarta. So a salute to Fundacion Corazon de Niña as well as to the 14 volunteers from CGC SHERMAN who graciously gave of their leave time, to help in this wonderful organization. Bravo!

For more information about the Puerto Vallarta Navy League contact Bill Semeyn Secretary Puerto Vallarta Navy League bsemeyn@gmail.com 322-135-5506 cel

The 8th Vallarta-Nayarit Gastronómica Gets Cooking

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his year the event has positioned itself to be one of the most important culinary events in Mexico and Latin America thanks to its amazing lineup, which includes four chefs who together have received six Michelin stars.

The 8th Vallarta-Nayarit Gastronómica is already cooking!

This culinary event welcomes to the Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta some of the culinary world’s top chefs, sommeliers, speakers and exhibitors, both domestic and international.

The festival takes place from October 23-26, 2016; the Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta in Nuevo Vallarta, Riviera Nayarit, will host the show cooking events, conferences, premium tastings and gourmet workshops.

Organized by Grupo E-Consulting, the event has become one of

the most important and well-established culinary festivals in Mexico and Latin America, thanks among other things to the presence of four chefs who together have received six Michelin stars: Chef Jordi Roca has

three Michelin stars; Chefs Monste Estruch, Kisko García and Roberto Ruiz each have one Michelin star.

There is also a list of approximately 40 national and international chefs, among them the Riviera Nayarit’s Culinary Ambassador, Chef Betty Vázquez, who is a judge on the reality show, Master Chef México.

Spain will be the guest country this year, with seven renowned chefs from the Iberian Peninsula present at the event. Guanajuato will be the guest state for the third year in a row and will showcase its traditional gastronomy.

For a look at the list of participating chefs and all the places in the Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta that will host the different events listed on the program for this year’s festival please visit vallartanayaritgastronomica.com/.

Adorable Dog In The Spotlight... rOCCO

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occo is a young Poodle mix, just a year old weighing 15.4 pounds. He is a sweet, snuggly little guy who just loves his humans.

He is well behaved, not very excitable and good on leash.

Rocco gets along with dogs just fine, but he is not a big fan of the felines. He is sporting his summer

by Janice Gonzalez

haircut so doesn’t look very “Poodle-ish” in his photo! Rocco has been dewormed, neutered and up-to-date on all his vaccines. Now he just needs a welcoming family to call his own. If you are ready for a loving companion and think Rocco would be perfect, contact us a spcapv@gmail.com for an application

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Sept 15 - 21, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

cement to Bucerias life.

There is much to do yet and challenges abound as the Amigos press on to do as much as they can to fulfill their mandate. Recently they were forced to close an assisted living home for seniors. As

in place to overcome the obstacles that forced closure. Time and effort are already in play to restore that which was lost because the Amigos believe in it and it clearly protected and enhanced the quality of life for the residents of the home.

These are the people that make up this unique group and this is their power; people acting on behalf of people.

Does this cause your heart to warm? Perhaps this is the pull of the recognition that we in BAD and the Amigos have all had; that this place is a gift and this community worth investing in preserving. If that is the case and you find yourself seeking an outlet to assist, I encourage you to contact the Amigos de Bucerias A.C. Information can easily be found at amigosdebucerias.org Check it out and then bring your heart to a meeting to add its warmth to the flame that collectively burns in Bucerias as the Amigos work together to help and heal.

Bucerias Art District Beat

By Gordon Mayer

Meet the Amigos de Bucerias A.C.

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itting across the table from Dick, he is sharing the story of how he and some other volunteers traveled around Bucerias at night inspecting and numbering all the street lights. “As we crested the hill we had to jam on the brakes because the road just dropped off and the boom truck we were in would never have made it!” With a hearty laugh he sips his coffee and quips, “I guess it’s time to get out there again.” In reply to one of the others seated with us that a street light is out on their block. As the Saturday morning meeting progresses this becomes just one story of the many projects that the Amigos de Banderas are currently engaged in and have completed over their history of giving.

Hours of selfless work, “dedicated to the protection and enhancement of the quality of life in Bucerias, in cooperation with all residents, elected and appointed officials, business leaders and visitors” is their mission and they fulfill in day and night.

The power of the Amigos is in the people, as is the case in any group including the BAD. Both the Amigos and the BAD have recognized that they have been given a gift that is the quality of life in Bucerias and their appropriate response is to preserve it. The members of the Amigos bring their

hearts forward in the form of discovered needs in the community so that the greater group can plan and assist. Much like the coals of a fire being brought together can form a flame from the combined heat, the Amigos come together to support their mission in projects that range from ecology, infrastructure, and aesthetics to the orphan and elderly.

Bucerias feels the warmth of the flame. Sometimes visibly as garbage is collected from the streets and beaches and other times out of sight as they bring comfort to seniors requiring assisted living, the Amigos quietly and without bravado capitalize on the quality people found in their membership to effect real enhan-

news of the project and its obstacles is shared during the meeting the weight of heavy hearts is felt by all in attendance. But in this moment, the soul of the Amigos de Bucerias shines through.

Undaunted, plans are already

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Marsol Market by the Pier Updates

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ur biggest news this week: our Winter Market begins on Friday, October 7th. Interested vendors should stop by beforehand and apply for space; it is limited. And, we will be having one of our monthly, fabulously popular Bazaars in October.

The date will be announced soon!

We had such fun last week measuring small dogs to fit into Sandra Salazar’s practical and beautiful dog carrier/purse combination.

Sandi looked fabulous in her

summer dress with matching handbag.

Bring your pooch by for a ‘fitting’!

Monica is setting up this Friday with used books in English and Spanish and quite possibly Italian as that’s where she is from.

Ricardo Mazcal, our on-site magic herbalist is presenting his newest potion (in capsules) that he says can and will take a dozen years off your face and inside and outside your body.

Ricardo has – in just a few months – made believers of a number of people

who are back weekly to load up on his inexpensive 100% natural products.

He practices what he preaches and uses what he makes; the results are there for you to see and to ask him questions about.

Marcia has inexpensive shoes and purses clearing out for new stock besides hundreds of pairs of earrings and vintage silk necklaces.

See you Friday morning from 9:30 to 1:30 pm at the Marsol Market by the Pier.

Puerto Vallarta Garden Club News

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he Puerto Vallarta Garden Club has certainly have been busy in PV. Using your generous donations, we've constructed more than 200 new planter boxes -- the largest number of boxes ever built in a single year.

And it has proven to be quite the project. New planters were placed on the streets with the highest amount of pedestrian traffic, including Basillo Badillo, Insurgentes, Avenida Mexico,

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

Ignacio Vallarta and Francisco I Madero. We also built a large number of planter boxes near Lazaro Cardenas Park.

The new planters are still in the process of being filled with good soil and plants, and where needed, new trees, palms and bougainvillea. We hope to be finished with the project later this month.

Once completed, the new planters will become such a beautiful addition to our beloved city. And that is the goal of our group - to beautify Vallarta. We can't wait for you to see all of our progress.

We want to make a special acknowledgement of the enormous contribution of Matthias Vogt to this project. While everyone was away for the summer, Matthias has single handedly overseen all of the permitting, the construction of the planters, all coordination with the City, managing the unexpected bumps along the way (we had a few) and the filling of the new planters with soil (truckloads) and plantings.

It was an enormous effort on his part and we all owe Matthias a huge round of applause for his invaluable work on our behalf.

We simply could not have pulled off an undertaking of this scale

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without him. Thanks Matthias -- you are such a wonderful asset to our community!

We look forward to an amazing season this winter. In November, the Garden Club will host our first Membership Renewal party.

Look for details on this upcoming event. Until then, be well and we will see you very soon.

- PV Garden Club Board

Wheeling Vallarta Segway Tours

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322-223-8014 31 de Octubre 107 Col. Centro Puerto Vallarta Malecon

ING AND SERVICES

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Three Hens and a Rooster Market News

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creating unique, wearable pieces of art in which to strut your stuff around town. Look for her upstairs.

Last chance this Saturday (until November) to buy jalapeño jelly from Pat Wagner. All of us wish her luck getting a new hip! Pat has loads of new clothes, too in her boutique. Mark Hughes

arol-lynn’s boutique is open! Her fanciful adornment of used therefore-broken-in denim are delightfully interesting to look at and soft and comfortable to wear. With bits of lace and whimsy, she hand sews edges of pockets, down a pant leg; wherever she sees an opportunity to embellish,

is taking a break from pies for a week…we will try and survive without quiche!

While Jeanine is away, Lolita is baking up a storm and Todd is making great cups of coffee to go with.

All you entertainers out there listen up! Three Hens is looking for a singer(s)/ guitar player with own sound

equipment to play for our winter-season Market. This is a paying gig and please, feel free to come Saturday morning, set up and audition for us. For now, tips only but who knows where it will lead?

Three Hens & a Rooster Market is every Saturday 9 to 1 at Venustiano Carranza 466.

FEATURED LISTING Ocean view condo Sea River 837 One Bedroom/One Bath 722sq.ft Asking $109,000

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his 8th floor view condo is located in one of the most desired areas of Puerto Vallarta, the Hotel Zone.

Close to supermarkets, malls, banks, restaurants, hospital and a short 10 minutes driving to downtown. Enjoy sunsets and sweeping views of the Bay of Banderas from your private balcony. This great turn-key property also has all of the amenities of a hotel including a common pool, beach area, kids area and restaurants. www.flexmls.com/link.html?180ey6li9w1w,12,1 Listing Agent: Harriet Cochran Murray www.casasandvillas.com

RESTAURANT-BAR SPACE

FOR RENT Large restaurant/bar space for rent,

semi-furnished, close to downtown. One year lease minimum; references required.

“Remodeling and Renovations”

Storage/office space and LIQUOR LICENSE included.

Serious inquiries to: marciavallarta@gmail.com

Juarez 599 El Centro 322 222 1383, 322 111 6359 www.colibridesignvallarta.com galeriacolibri@gmail.com

entertainment

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Sept 15 - 21, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

ROBIN WILLIAMS – part 1 A TRULY GIFTED COMEDIAN AND ACTOR

BY FRED JACOBS

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obin Williams was born in Chicago, on July 21, 1951. His father was a senior executive at Ford Motor Company's Lincoln Division. His mother was a former model from Jackson, Mississippi and her great-grandfather was Mississippi Governor Anselm J. McLaurin.

During a TV interview, Robin credited his mother as being an important early influence for his sense of humor, noting also that he tried to make her laugh to gain attention.

Robin’s early education was a mix of public and private schools, due to moving for his father’s work. Robin was a good student, but quiet and shy which he did not overcome until he became involved with his high school drama department. When Robin was 16, his father took early retirement and the family moved to California.

At the time of his graduation in 1969, Robin was voted "Most Likely Not to Succeed" and "Funniest" by his classmates.

After high school, Robin enrolled in college and majored in Political Science to please his father, but soon dropped out to pursue acting. He enrolled in a community college and studied drama for 3 years. Robin stood out and had a flare for improvising, which put his teachers and fellow students into hysterics.

In 1973, Robin got a full scholarship to the Juilliard School in New York City.

He was one of only 20 students accepted into the freshman class and one of only two students to be accepted by John Houseman into the Advanced Program at the school that year-the other student was Christopher Reeve (later Superman).

Teachers and students at Julliard were equally baffled by this “human dynamo”. Robin wore tie-dyed shirts with track suit bottoms and talked a mile a minute. Christopher Reeves said of meeting Robin “I'd never seen so much energy contained in one person.

He was like an untied balloon that had been inflated and immediately released.” But Robin was more than a comedian-he equally surprised teachers by being able to take serious roles and move the

viewer.

Robin left Juilliard during his junior year in 1976 at the suggestion of Houseman, who said “there was nothing more Juilliard could teach him”.

Another teacher at Juilliard, said that Williams was a "genius" and that the school's conservative and classical style of training did not suit him. No one was surprised that he left.

Robin and Christopher Reeves would remain lifelong friends or “brothers” as they often commented, up to Reeve’s death in 2004.

After Christopher’s tragic horse riding accident that left him a quadriplegic, Robin paid many of Reeve's medical bills and gave financial support to his family.

After leaving Julliard, Robin rejoined his family who now lived in the San Francisco area. In the 1960s, San Francisco was a center for music, hippies, drugs, and a sexual revolution. In the 1970s, Robin helped lead San Francisco to be a comedy power place.

But Robin knew that to make it big, Los Angeles was where he had to be. So Robin moved to Los Angeles and continued doing stand-up shows at various clubs, including the Comedy Club and

the Improv.

Hollywood was taking notice of this talent. Soon Robin was hired to write and appear on TV programs like Laugh-In and The Richard Pryor Show. Robin admired Richard Pryor’s style of comedy and his use of his personal life onstage in his comedy.

Robin would include that in his stage work as well, saying “it was cheaper than therapy”.

Robin’s big TV break came on “Happy Days” as the alien Mork.

The network loved Robin and gave him his own series based on the character, “Mork & Mindy”. Robin co-starred with Pam Dawber in the wacky sitcom, which debuted in 1978 and ran for four seasons.

It really was the perfect character to let Robin be Robin.

In its first season the show finished #3 in the ratings and was a smash hit.

But success on the small screen did not keep Robin from continuing with his love of live

comedy stage and continued to perform on tour.

Robin even won a Grammy Award for the album of his 1979 live show at the Copacabana in New York, "Reality...What a Concept".

Next week we’ll look at Robin’s move to the big screen, addiction and health issues, as well as his battles with inner daemons.

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

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Sept 15 - 21, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

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