Issue 1022, November 03 - 09, 2016.

Catch us online @ vallartatribune.com

News

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Mexico and nafta

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Nov 3rd - 9, 2016 Year 19 Free Issue 1022

Entertainment

comings and goings

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Events Events calendar

FR EE

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ID

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Least Heliconian by Moralea Milne

A Passion for Butterflies

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

Nov 3rd - 9, 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 Ambulance:

Consulates American Immigration: Consulate 322.224.7719 Nuevo Vallarta: 322.222.0069 Consumer Protection: 24 hrs Guadalajara: 01.800.468.8722 333.268.2145 Tourism Offices Canadian Consulate Jalisco: 322.221.2676 322.293.2894 Nayarit: 322.297.1006 24 hrs: 1.800.706.2900 322.222.1533

Ahoy Cruisers!

Day Ship Passengers 02-nov Carnival Miracle 2,124 02-nov Westerdam 1,916 02-nov Norwegian Jewel 2,376 08-nov Ruby Princess 3,080 08-nov Veendam 1,350 09-nov Carnival Miracle 2,124 09-nov Westerdam 1,916 09-nov Norwegian Jewel 2,376 13-nov Island Princess 1,975 15-nov Ruby Princess 3,080 16-nov Carnival Miracle 2,124 16-nov Westerdam 1,916 16-nov Norwegian Jewel 2,376

Day Ship Passengers 17-nov Grand Princess 2,600 17-nov Star Princess 2,600 21-nov Celebrity Infinity 1,950 22-nov Carnival Miracle 2,124 22-nov Ruby Princess 3,080 23-nov Carnival Miracle 2,124 23-nov Westerdam 1,916 23-nov Norwegian Jewel 2,376 27-nov Celebrity Infinity 1,950 29-nov Ruby Princess 3,080 30-nov Westerdam 1,916 30-nov Norwegian Jewel 2,376

In port this month

In the month of November Puerto Vallarta welcomes 56,825 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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Editor’s

Nov 3rd - 9, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Note

editor@vallartatribune.com

I

f you build it they will come. And so they have. There is a record number of visitors arriving at the International Airport, jumping to nearly four million – up from just two million a few years ago. Some exit the airport and head South, others head North, hopefully, all have their copy of the Vallarta Tribune in hand.

This week, in preparation for this edition, I have been fielding dozens of emails that would normally come in a flurry in December. The Vallarta Tribune for the first time in many years launches in November with 32 pages and a number of new advertisers and contributors.

If you are new to the Vallarta Tribune, welcome. If not, thank you for reading us again. This year marks our twentieth anniversary, published each and every week for the past two decades. In March 2017 we will have an event to celebrate the anniversary, but for now please join me in congratulating

all those who came before and those who join us today. Cynthia, the newspapers designer has diligently laid out the Tribune for the past sixteen years. (That's loyalty and commitment - hallmarks of the Vallarta Tribune culture.) A successful newspaper (pulled back from the brink a couple of times) is an anomaly in today’s digital age and it’s through the support of readers, contributors and advertisers alike that we are here.

This week we have a new addition to our valued contributors. Join me in welcoming Michael Nolan, a host with the University of Guadalajara’s 104.3 FM radio station who recently celebrated his own (one year) anniversary of hosting his Saturday morning Good Morning Wake Up Show (every Saturday at 9am - in English). Unbeknown to many, the University of Guadalajara campus in Puerto Vallarta has many programs open to all residents, including free Spanish language classes. The University offers wonderful events and programs year round and Michael

will bring those details to us each week.

A new advertiser is the Amigos de La Cruz de Huanacaxtle charitable association, who, this year are launching their season with a Dinner in White event. Guests are asked to dress in their ‘best’ whites and will be shuttled to a secret location where they will be wined and dined to the dulcet tones of a ten-piece band. Tickets are limited so don’t delay. Funds raised go back into the La Cruz community to support their many efforts.

Perhaps the weekend’s biggest

Where can I find the Vallarta Tribune?

Starting this week, in addition to the usual locations, the Tribune will be available for pick up at the Saturday Old Town Farmer's

Market at the info desk and at the Amigo’s de La Cruz table at the La Cruz Sunday Market.

Look for the Tribune in restaurants, resorts, galleries and salons around the Bay of Banderas and north into Sayulita and San Pancho. We distribute 10,000 copies in high season from Mismaloya to San Pancho each week. If you would like to see the Tribune in a locally accessible spot – send us an email and we will be happy to see about getting it delivered (closer) to you. editor@vallartatribune.com As we finalise our new distribution points we will publish them both here in the paper and online at vallartatribune.com. If you missed a copy or want to look back you can find the current edition and a link to past editions on our website as well.

party - don’t miss out on the fourth annual fundraiser – Fiesta en La Calle put on by Los Muertos Brewery this Saturday from 2pm to 11pm. Funds raised this year support RISE Orphanage.

The Vallarta Tribune supports local communities with news, event information and articles designed to intrigue and entice visitors to explore just a little further each week. As a free community-based newspaper, we rely on the good graces of our advertisers and contributors. If you appreciate the newspaper, then please share your appreciation with

those who make it possible.

My email is always open if you have comments or concerns. editor@vallartatribune.com.

We have many new exciting initiatives happening this high season and I hope you enjoy them all. Stay tuned!

You can find the paper each week online at vallartatribune. com or on our facebook and twitter accounts. I look forward to connecting with all of our valued readers through the season.

Safe travels, Madeline

What to do if you see a turtle laying eggs Maintain a minimum 10m distance If you take photos, don’t use a flash Don’t block the turtle from returning to the ocean Don’t step on or dig around the nest area Report it to the Department of Ecology at 322 160 3279

Enjoy this miracle of nature!

news

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Fonatur’s model is questioned in Nayarit

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300 families turn up for border hugs event Migrants briefly reunited with their families in Mexico

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here were hugs across the Mexico-U.S. border again on Saturday when 300 families showed up for three minutes of embraces.

The joint effort by human rights advocacy groups and government authorities from both sides of the border made it possible for family members to see and hug each other in the second edition of the “Hugs Not Walls” event.

Members of families split by immigration policies arrived early Saturday morning at the border cities of El Paso on the American side and Ciudad Juárez on the Mexican side, where they waited on the shores of the mostly dry Río Bravo, as it is known in Mexico, or Rio Grande, as it is known on the other side of the border.

Starting at 9:00am and for three minutes, groups of 20 people, 10 from each side, got the chance to meet each other under the vigilant eyes of the U.S. Border Patrol and Mexico’s Federal Police, agencies that had granted permission to hold the event. Those coming from the United States were identified by blue shirts, while Mexicans wore white.

Many of the families had been separated for years, remaining in vicarious contact through electronic means, explained the executive director of the U.S.-based Border Network for Human Rights, one of the organizers of the event.

“This is an unprecedented moment,” said Fernando García.

“The origin of it is the United States’

Nov 3rd - 9, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

policy, which keeps families separated . . . with an aggressive policy against migrants.”

But, he added, the Hugs Not Walls event was “more than political.”

“This is an act of love, there’s hugs, smiles and happiness but still, it is also an act of protest. We need to raise awareness of the crisis of deported families.”

United States Congressman Beto O’Rourke, also in attendance, said that it was “a very nice day. I am proud of the Border Network and the Border Patrol and of this community, the largest binational community in the world.”

“We acknowledge that migrants are part of the success we’ve got, and through acts like this we can set an example for other borders,” he remarked.

One of the family members who participated was Karina Román, 19, who has been living in El Paso for the last 10 years.

“I hadn’t seen my mom in 10 years and it’s the most beautiful thing that could have happened. I am very emotional, and I liked that we could see and hug each other, even for a short time.”

Besides her mother, Karina was able to see her grandfather and uncle again, and meet her younger brother for the first time.

The first hugs event was held in August, organized by the Border Network for Human Rights and its Mexican counterpart, the Hope Border Institute.

Original: Mexico Daily News

orum will consider the model and tourism's ecological impact The tourism development model employed in the Riviera Nayarit by the National Tourism Promotion Fund, known as Fonatur, is being questioned by some entrepreneurs, who are calling for the “sustainable management of urban tourism.”

“What Fonatur does is urbanize a stretch of land, putting four or five global, all-inclusive chain hotel projects in it,” said an environmental advisor to Canacintra, an organization representing industrial interests, who gave as an example the tourist developments in Nuevo Vallarta, Bahía de Banderas and Punta Mita.

The area between Puerto Vallarta and Tepic has the physical capacity to accommodate 1.6 million visitors per year, but the figure is usually over 2 million, said Francisco Fernández.

In most cases, visitors stay in all-inclusive hotels and the economic impact is less than significant for the surrounding towns, he explained.

Representatives of Tierra Tropical, an ecotourism firm, said the region receives almost 2 million visitors a year and the economy is growing at 14% annually.

Approximately 38 billion pesos (over US $2 billion) was invested in tourism in the region during the last year, an industry that has become the source of 80% of all jobs in that part of the country.

But the popularity of the Riviera Nayarit has had an impact on fragile ecological areas such as the Marieta Islands, a natural protected area and national park.

The size of the hotels and the number of visitors create problems in solid waste management, over-exploitation of aquifers and a loss of forest areas.

“There’s still a chance, beginning from the area around Sayulita and moving southwards, to shift the development model towards a low-density one, focusing on the value of the natural stock and proper management of biodiversity, taking advantage of renewable energy sources, ecological technologies, and measures geared towards alleviating the stress on aquifers,” said Alejandro Angulo of Tierra Tropical.

Consideration of the tourism model and the ecological impact of the area’s tourism development will be the focus of an environmental forum November 10 and 11.

Organizers will aim to identify common goals, such as the creation of biodiversity preservation programs and trying to keep large hotel developments from regions like those surrounding San Pancho and Sayulita.

Original: Mexico Daily News

A study reveals how the world sees Mexico Marginalized, promising or exotic are distinct views of Mexico

H

ow does the world view Mexico? In three distinct ways, according to a new

study.

Mexico’s Image in the World 2006-2015, conducted by the Mexican government and the Iberoamerican University, found the country is regarded as dependent and marginalized, an emerging promise or exotic and unusual. The study took into consideration over 1 million pieces of data, including news stories, the opinions of experts, tweets and Google searches.

Close to one-third of the data collected shows a country in development despite rampant inequality and a failed rule of law that can only be compared to countries like China or Iran, said a report today by the Spanish newspaper El País.

In contrast, 27% of the world regards Mexico through the promises of the Mexican Moment (a slogan from the early days of the administration of President Enrique Peña Nieto): a country leader among emerging economies with great promise for the future.

The third Mexico dominates in 14% of the collected data. This Mexico is exotic and presents

its folklore as a cultural rarity.

Despite the apparent innocence of stereotypes, states the report, these harm the country in the end.

A majority of Google searches in the last decade correspond to stereotypes such as the TV show and main character El Chavo del Ocho, Ranchero music singer Vicente Fernández and pop ballad singer Luis Miguel. These trends, concludes the report, don’t allow the country’s modern culture to be appreciated.

A great surprise for the experts was that after a decade of the war against drugs, Mexico is yet to be regarded by a global majority as barbaric and violence-infested, although that opinion is already present and gaining strength, said César Villanueva, coordinator of the study.

While violence and notions of a failed state have increasingly become an issue in the country, that has yet to become the predominant image. In this regard, the case of the 43 missing students from Ayotzinapa has become a “before and after” for Mexico’s public relations.

The disappearance of the students unleashed a wave of negative news reporting — locally and internationally — and

generated harsh criticism from international entities such as the United Nations and the European Parliament. Thus, Ayotzinapa has become not only a sign of insecurity, but also of the crisis the Peña Nieto administration is going through.

The Mexican paradox can better be appreciated in the country’s economic situation.

Mexico boasts a privileged position among emerging economies and Latin American countries, given its macroeconomic stability, trade liberalization — Mexico has the most free trade agreements in the world — and structural reforms that encourage competition.

Despite this, Mexico is also one of the countries with the most inequality: 1% of the richest people benefit from 21% of the country’s income.

During the presentation of the study, Villanueva said that Mexico has a long way to go with regard to improving the perception the world has about it, but that the underlying problems and issues should be addressed first.

“There’s no way we can change the country’s image if its reality isn’t changed first.”

Original: Mexico Daily News

news

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Nov 3rd - 9, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

North America: A Leading Player On The Global Stage

by Stefan M. Selig

Under Secretary for International Trade at the United States Department of Commerce

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ll of us are aware of the criticisms we have heard in the US surrounding NAFTA. But these criticisms overlook the fact that Canada, Mexico and the US have cultivated one of —if not “the”— most competitive manufacturing platforms in the world. The strong, deep supply chains that NAFTA

and economy that has made our two nations so intertwined.

This criticism of our commercial partnership does not even remotely reflect the truth. So the question is how do we present a narrative about the very real benefits of our commercial partner- ship, specifically to business leaders and policymakers in the US. I personally believe that the answer comes from the great American jurist Louis Brandeis.

He famously noted that: “Sunlight is said to be the best of disinfectants.” So my recommendation is that we shine some sunlight to

“Canada, Mexico and the US have cultivated one of —if not ‘the’— most competitive manufacturing platforms in the world. The strong, deep supply chains that NAFTA allowed us to create are evident in the fact that the vast majority of the US domestic content that returns to the country as imports comes from Mexico and Canada.” allowed us to create are evident in the fact that the vast majority of the US domestic content that returns to the country as imports comes from Mexico and Canada.

In 1961, President Kennedy made his first official trip to Canada to deliver an address before the Parliament in Ottawa.

In describing the importance of the US-Canada relationship he famously stated: “Geography has made us neighbors. History has made us friends. Economics has made us partners. And necessity has made us allies.”

Fifty-two years later, these exact words resurfaced in Mexico City. They were recited

by President Peña Nieto when describing the importance of the US-Mexico relationship during a joint press conference with President Obama.

I wanted to start here because today’s theme of exploring ways to message our bilateral relationship is incredibly timely.

The US presidential campaign season has produced the rise of the unfortunate and distortive rhetoric that our trade relation- ship with Mexico has been nothing short of a zero-sum game for our economy, a net loss for American businesses and workers, and a path to American decline.

In the process, those very critics would ask us to abandon the shared geography, history,

directly confront this disappointing and distortive criticism about our commercial relationship. And we can do this in three key ways.

First, we need to directly confront the criticism pertaining to our commercial partnership over the past 20-plus years.

And I am especially referring to the period since the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) entered into effect in 1994.

All of us are aware of the criticisms we have heard in the US surrounding NAFTA. But these criticisms overlook the fact that Canada, Mexico and the US have cultivated one of —if not “the”— most competitive manufacturing platforms in the world.

The strong, deep supply chains that NAFTA allowed us to create are evident in the fact that the vast majority of the US domestic content that returns to the country as imports comes from Mexico and Canada. A recent New York Times article points out that the Honda CR-V assembled in El Salto, Jalisco, uses a US-made motor and transmission, and that roughly 70% of its content is, in fact, either Canadian or from the US. The US services market was practically created over the past two decades, in large part because of NAFTA, and this has led to a more than three-fold increase in US services exports

to our NAFTA partners, a more than four-fold increase in our services trade surplus with those partners, and helped cement our

standing as the largest exporter of services in the world today.

And because total US goods and services exports to our

NAFTA partners have increased by nearly four-fold over the past continued on next page

Unite in the movement

# sinpopote

Daily we use 500,000,000 popotes 1 person will use 38,000 popotes in their lifetime.

In Mexico 95% are non-recyclable Taking over 100 years to bio-degrade.

X

Please take care of your environment and stop using straws. The next time you order a drink, say “sin popote, por favor.”

news

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Nov 3rd - 9, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

continued from previous page twenty-plus years, the 2.8 million American jobs supported by US exports to Canada and Mexico is the highest number among all countries we export to. In fact, this is more than the total number of export-supported jobs from the next four countries combined: China, the United Kingdom, Japan, and Germany.

Second, we need to confront the criticism that our commercial partnership undermines our current economic standing and our future standing as well. And we will combat this criticism by referencing the powerful North American regional partnership that exists and the ample resources that our three nations can lever- age as an integrated market: • A collective economy producing 20 trillion usd in gross domestic product (GDP), and which is projected to reach 50 trillion usd by 2050.

• A regional commercial partnership that produces more than 1 trillion usd in annual commerce.

• A regional workforce defined by favorable demographics, with 22% of US citizens below the age of 30, compared to 16% in Japan and Europe according to the Council on Foreign Relations.

• An energy prowess that represents for regional and international companies an almost unrivaled competitive position when it comes to production costs, and signals to our populations the promise of energy self-sufficiency. That prowess is driven by Canada having the third largest oil reserves in the world, historic reforms in Mexico’s oil, electricity and gas sectors, and that the US today is the world’s largest producer of crude oil and natural gas.

And of course, we will be able to better leverage our collective regional strengths once the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) becomes a reality; whether it is opening new market access for our businesses, advancing our commercial relationship in critical sectors, including energy, or allowing our companies to strengthen their sup- ply chains by creating duty-free access to inputs from our nine other partners.

But this messaging effort ultimately requires the enduring support of stakeholders in the US. So the third way to shine some sunlight is to directly confront the misconceptions that drive the distortive and unfortunate rhetoric

I referenced earlier.

And in the process, we can present a narrative that speaks to the overall benefits of trade and trade agreements to US workers and businesses.

First, is the misconception that trade has been the main driver of job losses. It has in fact been technological advances, and not trade or trade agreements, which have been the primary driver of job losses.

Over the span of the entire 20th century, US farm employment would go from 41% to 2% of the labor force, and US manufacturing employment would go from 24% to 8.5%. Both of these trends began well before the US entered into its first free trade agreement in 1985 with Israel. And these

trends certainly began well before NAFTA entered into effect in 1994.

Second, is the misconception that trade always polls poorly among Americans. Ac- cording to the Gallup Poll, over the last two years, 58% of Americans believe that trade represents an opportunity for economic growth.

That is the highest figure in the 20-plus year history that Gallup has polled the question. And according to a Pew poll taken this year, 51% of US citizens see trade agreements as a good thing.

And among millennials, the figure rises to 67%.

Third, is the misconception that trade agreements invariably lead to trade deficits. The numbers clearly prove that the opposite is true. If you take out oil, the US

has a trade surplus with all of its free-trade partners. And between 2009 and 2015, US export growth to our free trade partners was 53%. That is compared to 34% for the rest of the world.

Fourth, is the misconception that trade drives down wages.

In fact, trade in export-intensive jobs produce wages that are 18% higher on average.

Fifth, and perhaps most importantly, that trade and trade agreements represent a windfall solely for wealthy people and large businesses. The reality is that the benefits of trade are skewed towards people with lower incomes, who spend more on traded sectors and merchandise; strengthening the purchasing power of working Americans

by stretching the power of their disposable income. So it stands to reason that closing off trade would disproportionately and adversely impact working Americans. In fact, ac- cording to a study by the National Bureau of Economic Research and UCLA, closing trade off would represent a loss of 63% of real income to the bottom 10th percentile. That is compared to only a 28% loss of real income for those in the top 90th percentile.

As for businesses, trade agreements reduce and eliminate the market ambiguities for SMEs, which do not have the capital to risk failure in global markets; specifically by securing fair treatment of goods, ensuring transparent rulemaking, and advancing e-commerce, which is an essential vehicle for SMEs to access international customers in order to compete with larger firms. This is critical when you consider that small businesses have produced 66% of all net new jobs in the US since the 1970s.

Messaging our partnership represents a critical undertaking to secure our roles as global leaders through sustaining the rules-based economic order, participants in the strongest regional economic and commercial bloc in the world, and as drivers of prosperity for workers and businesses on both sides of the border.

And that ascendancy will not come by rejecting our shared geography, history, or economy.

It can only come by vigorously defending it. Something that this group is so very committed to doing.

Original: Negocios ProMexico

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local

Nov 3rd - 9, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

QUE PASO AT UdG CUC Michael Nolan

Marcia Blondin

104.3wakeupshow@gmail.com

marciavallarta@gmail.com

Michael Nolen is the host of ‘The Good Morning Wake Up Show,’ which is broadcast as part of the University of Guadalajara’s 104.3 FM radio station at the CUC campus in Puerto Vallarta.

Every Saturday at 9 AM

University of Guadalajara in Puerto Vallarta Radio Station has a birthday!

U

nder the guidance of Director Marina de los Santos Alvarez, The University Radio Station, 104.3 FM will celebrate 15 years on the air waves November 4, 2016.

The Radio shows broadcast includes people with all sorts of cultural backgrounds such as educators, business professionals, painters, writers, musicians, poets, local people, and foreigners.

Everyone at the radio station works in order to make the shows full of culture, news, music, literature, poetry, theatre, opinions, and university information, etc. The radio broadcast 7 days a week in both Spanish and English.

The students and young people who perform their community service are responsible for the production of the daily shows.

Some of the full time staff studied Multimedia at the UdG for a career. One of the future projects is an internet TV channel. Test and research is being done to achieve this.

The University Radio is a different option for both young and older people in the bay area. It gives a lot of spirit and hope. Marina and all of the people involved at the station invites all our readers to listen to the excellent musical and culture programs on FM 104.3 every day and join this great community. You can listen to the station via the internet at udgtv.com/radio-puerto-vallarta/en-vivo Free Classes For Seniors The University of Guadalajara, Coastal Campus (SUAM PROGRAM) was created in 2012, the main objective is to integrate and educate senior citizens in the region. It was designed to offer academic, intellectual, recreational and artistic courses and the opportunity for social interaction for people over the age of 60.

SUAM offers to meet the particular needs of the individual users and offers courses and workshops in a variety of different and interesting areas, such as Art and Culture, Computing and Languages, Humanities, Health and Psychology.

SUAM courses and workshops: Generally courses are about 20 hour’s duration and are spread over two and a half months. Students can spend 2 – 4 hours each week depending on their objectives and the contents of the course.

From Here

Schedule: 9am to 2 pm Monday to Friday, and 9 am to 1 pm Saturday. The program is offered twice yearly, February to May, and September to November.

SUAM offers the following classes and activities: Health, Tai Chi, Yoga, Nutrition, Humanities, Family Law. Wonders of the world: Art, History, Literature, and Nature.

Regional architecture and the Mountains of western Mexico Natural richness of the Bay of Banderas Poetry and reading workshops Computing – Basic and intermediate levels Languages - Basic and Intermediate level of English and Spanish Dance, Drawing and Painting, Creativity with recycled material.

Cooking, and Popular culture.

For more information contact the Suam Program at 322 226 2200 Ext. 66290 Or 66304 or suam@cuc.udg.mx

I

am resurrecting my entertainment column “Comings and Goings” this week. It is Previews and Reviews of theatre, music and other happenings in our Bay of Banderas.

Look for it in this and subsequent issues.

Birthdays are one of those odd celebrations; everyone has one so why make such a big deal? We are the only link in the Food Chain that celebrate births by having big parties or simply making a nod on the day or sending a thank you note to our moms (This last one we should really do!). To make a big fuss every year is crazy but the 0’s and 5’s require attention: to whit; my 65th is Wednesday, November 9th, and I am having a party. At Colette’s terrific resto on the beach – Langostino’s.

Do drop by after 7 pm. Colette will have her fab drink specials for my guests for a couple of hours. My only request for gifts is to receive 65 hugs before midnight! There will be cake!

Have any of you played Mexico’s equivalent to Bingo? If you are ever invited to play Loteria – please note well: money is required and keen eyesight and/or good lighting, a modicum of Spanish spoken at warp speed and you’ll have fun! Spent a few delightful hours playing at Jovany and Anthony’s incredible house overlooking all (and I mean ALL) of Vallarta. Eating nachos and using my rapidly diminishing stack of pesos as markers. Buenas!!

Vallarta CoWork had their third monthly meeting/get-together-and-toss-ideasaround last week. There is likely a Writer’s Group bound to spring up soon as this community of Internet-inspired Vallartenses continues to grow. Nice to be getting to know the people at the heart of this new business in town and seeing them out and

about at parties in our city.

Had lunch last week at Seasons P.V. in the little Plaza Rivera Molino by Intercam.

My friend Susan from Calgary wasn’t very hungry so she only ordered an appetizer.

We could have easily shared her appy AND fed the balance of the folks playing cards inside the air conditioned resto. I have never seen such a huge wooden plate/slab of flat bread piled high with veggies and cheeses. And, delicious! Of course, I had fries and gravy and a roast beef dip. Amazing food!

Finally got around the corner from Seasons P.V. to Bravos for dinner. They are heading into their 4th season and doing a brisk business already. Owner Michael is ever-present, checking on every table and not missing a thing – why the resto is virtually impossible to get into without a reservation in the height of season. Bravos is small but not cramped, easy on the eyes with subtle colors and décor; certainly welcoming and comfortable. The menu is huge and varied; I for one would like to start at the top and work my way through every single dish.

And that impossible dream, my friends, is it, From Here!

Havre No.111 Col. Versalles Fluent English Spoken

Porcelain veneers, crowns and bridges.

Dental implants Dentures Go to www.pvsmile.com.mx for address and directions

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The Water

Medical

Carrier

Matters Pam Thompson

By Michael Osias

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uring my stay in Santa Maria, a small, poverty-stricken pueblo in the Sierra Madres, I witnessed an incredible balancing act unmatched by any circus performer or gold medal gymnast. It was pure magic, executed by a ten-year-old girl, appropriately named Estrella, which translates to ‘Star’ in English. The modest water supply for the small village was at the only well on the other side of a dirt trail enclosed by a poorly made fence resembling a corral.

Some of the local women and children were gathered around it, slowly filling their buckets sharing good-hearted friendly gossip, not unlike office workers might do at the company water cooler. It’s amazing how water draws a crowd, wherever it may be. The real important things in life, I guess, water and small talk.

Estrella smiled at me as she snatched a three-gallon plastic bucket off a branch and happily skipped on her way. With the only entrance through the fence down the walkway, she ignored it and chose the shorter route, climbing over instead. She did with this a natural agility gifted to most children her age. Joining those already gathered she took her place in line and slipped into the familiar early morning greetings and chit-chat.

After a lengthy wait, it was finally her turn.

She lowered a frayed line tied to a container for scooping into the opening of the shallow well, patiently waiting for it to fill and then pulled it up to the top to transfer the water into her plastic bucket. Repeating the process was necessary and took time as the dipping vessel only held a small amount of water.

When full within less than an inch from the rim, she hauled the pail up, set it on top of her head and started back.

Again, she didn’t go to the opening and went straight to the fence. With the bucket

pam@healthcareresourcespv.com containing twenty-five pounds of water, balanced atop her head, she began to climb the fence. Eye level with the top cross board, she grasped it with both hands and placed her left foot on the bottom one.

Confidently, without hesitation, her other foot easily found the second rail. She stood now with both feet on it then gracefully threw one leg over the top to the same rail on the opposite side. While straddling the fence for a second and still holding it with her hands, Estrella skillfully lifted her other leg over the top and climbed down. It was like going up one side of a ladder and down the other.

I finally took a much-needed breath and stared in awe. This little girl carrying a third of her weight perched upon her head, never used her hands to steady it and negotiated those rickety old boards without spilling a drop.

If I had a gold medal it would have been placed around her neck and knew without a doubt, Cirque du Soleil would have hired her on the spot.

She walked to a brick holding tank beside a concrete scrub board and poured in her bucket-full. Flashing me the smile of a true star, she did a quick spin and ran off to fill another.

After eight buckets, Estrella fetched enough water to fill the tank.

Softly humming to herself she removed a piece of clothing from a large pile and began to hand wash the family laundry.

Michael Osias lives with his wife, Diane, in the beautiful Fraser Valley just outside Vancouver, British Columbia. They spend their winters in a small pueblo on Mexico’s Pacific coast with a cast of quirky characters, each of them a story waiting to be told. mklblnd@gmail.com

Pamela Thompson operates HealthCare Resources Puerto Vallarta, a multi-faceted, independent, resource network that is here for your total health and well-being. We offer assistance to help find a physician, hospital and diagnostic service for any healthcare needs. www.healthcareresourcespv.com

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his week I thought I’d cover a few tidbits of information on how things work here with various medical issues – from medications to diagnostic studies. It’s a little bit different than north of the border. These are some of the most common questions I receive: Do I need a prescription for my medications?

You need a prescription from a Mexican physician for antibiotics and for narcotics.

Otherwise, you can purchase your regular medications over the counter without a prescription. Sometimes the dosages will be different and sometimes the names will be different so be sure and do your homework to make sure you are purchasing the correct medication. What about the generics? Some are good – some are not so good.

Do I need to see a physician to have an MRI, Ultrasound, CT scan, X-ray?

No, you do not. You can have whatever study you want but most need to be scheduled which we are happy to do for you.

You will receive a disc with the results and a report (which we are happy to translate for you). The report is by the radiologist and does not include any recommendations so we do recommend a consult with a physician to review the results and make recommendations if the results are abnormal.

Will my doctor here call me with my results of a study?

It is the patient’s responsibility to follow up with the physician to obtain results and recommendations. If you wait for an email or a phone call from the physician, you might be waiting a very long time. Remember, here it is the patient’s responsibility to keep their own medical record. (We are happy to help you with this).

Can I have my medications mailed to me from the US or Canada?

A definite no. And that also goes for any medical supplies, whether it is catheters or hearing aids and everything in between. They will be held in Aduana in what I call “the black hole”. Sometimes people do not listen and then call me saying “how can I get my medications that were sent by Fed Ex that are being held?”

Sorry, you can’t. Have someone bring them who is coming by plane or driving. Plan accordingly so that you bring the proper supply.

One might get lucky and have them arrive once but eventually, it won’t work. Not legal.

How much is a physician consult here?

The price will vary from 400 pesos upwards, depending on the specialty.

Are Bio-Identical Hormones available here? (This was a recent question sent to me.)

Yes! Up until recently, they were not available but now we do have them for both men and women!

It continually amazes me that people will ask for (serious and urgent) medical advice on Facebook and some of the answers that are given. The answers are given without knowing the person’s medical history, allergies, current medications taken and other important information. Someday soon there will be an adverse reaction to this advice taken with a not very good outcome. Physicians are readily available here – from what I call a “Doc in the Box” at the pharmacies to Emergency Rooms, 24/7. Dr. Facebook? Not so reliable.

We wrap up October Breast Cancer Awareness Month, having brought about, we hope, a huge awareness! Our November calendar will be out very soon with all of our clinics and some great speakers programs. Have an awesome week!

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Comings and Goings

Paradise and Parenting Leza Warkentin

Marcia Blondin

Expat Life

Comings…

marciavallarta@gmail.com

mommyinmexico.wordpress.com

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have become acquainted with a whole community of expats who live in Vallarta.

It’s an eclectic bunch who has adopted Mexico as their home because they love not only the geography, but the people and the culture. Some enjoy a higher standard of living at a much lower cost than their home country. Some expats like the fact that they can live far, far away from certain bothersome relatives who refuse to visit because they can’t abide spicy food.

I moved to Mexico because I wanted a new experience and a place by the beach. I stayed because of the Mexican people. Well, sort of one particular Mexican person.

This country isn’t perfect, in a multitude of ways. I could list those ways, but if you live here you probably already know them. If you don’t know them, I think you should have to experience them for yourselves, just like I did when I opened a box of Corn Flakes one day at 6am and discovered that lizards enjoy setting up housekeeping in packages of breakfast foods.

But we accept that, when we move to a new country, things aren’t going to be exactly like they were in our home country. In Winnipeg, for example, I knew when the city bus was going to come to my bus stop because there was a schedule posted at each one. And if the bus did not arrive at that time (on the minute), it meant that there was a white-out blizzard, a serious accident, or the apocalypse.

In Vallarta, there are no schedules that I’m aware of, so technically the buses never arrive late. And sometimes they never arrive at all.

Being disgruntled about that will not faze the driver. Although I think that an apocalypse would also not faze the driver.

If we cannot accept that we live in a new culture with traditions and laws that are not the same as the ones to which we are accustomed, then it may behoove us to either a) complain ourselves to an early grave or b) go back and live in a place where the locals think that – 25 degrees Celsius just means putting on an extra pair of socks before going to work.

Neither one of those options appeal to me personally. I’m not great at committing to something as time-consuming and physically draining as being red-faced and discontent all the time. And, after sixteen years in the tropics I really don’t like wearing even one pair of socks.

So what I did was I acculturated. That’s what people often do when they move to an entirely new country. They realize that they are not immediately the center of the whole Mexican Universe and that most of the locals don’t have the time to change their concept

Nov 3rd - 9, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

of “dinner” to accommodate the customary Canadian supper time of 5:30pm.

So now there are things that, if I really think about it, are more Mexican about me than Canadian. For example: 1) If you walk into a staff meeting after school, you will be able to easily distinguish the Mexican from the non-Mexican teachers simply by looking at the snack table. Mexican lunch time is the main meal of the day, and it’s eaten around 3-4pm. In order to stave off the hunger pangs, they have snacks for those who are used to having a meal at that time.

You will find me at my own table, hoarding one entire bag of microwaveable Costco popcorn.

2) Manana – I have always loved procrastinating. I am absolutely in my zone if I’m skimming along the edge of a deadline. I am a master of a well-worded email that will get me at least two more days before something is due. The concept of telling someone “manana” (tomorrow) when they ask you when you will complete a task has put me right at ease in Mexico. Unless it involves a broken water pipe in my own home.

There are still many ways that I am a foreigner in my adopted country, and I always will be. Not only do I answer to my nickname “guera”, which means “blondie”, I will be two minutes early for everything, while everyone else is half an hour late. I require a fully operational A/C unit in my classroom at all times. I like ice in all my cold beverages. I have brutal indigestion if I eat dinner after 10pm.

You might hear me complain sometimes, because I’m human and because I hate always being the first one at a party. But I love Mexico for countless reasons, and I’ll stay as long as she’ll have me.

The Boutique Theatre opens their season with “A Two-Scented Rose” Thursday, November 3rd. The Boutique offers dinner – cooked to perfection by Nacho Daddy chefs or, you can simply go to see this intriguing play and enjoy a drink or two. The theatre is very intimate and ideal for this two-woman play that is scheduled to run to November 12th.

The 4th annual Fiesta en la Calle starts at 2 in the afternoon this Saturday with live music, food and beer brought to you

by Los Muertos Brewing Company. This party is one of the best in the city, so dig out your dancing shoes and enjoy!

On the 10th, Paco Ojeda presents his monthly music appreciation series at the Los Mangos Library. All summer long, Paco has researched and presented his Placer de Escuchar featuring the harmonica, stringed instruments, jazz singers, Handel’s Messiah and coming up the French horn. For a $35 peso donation to the library, you will come away entertained and enlightened. Paco starts at 7 pm sharp!

Also on November 10th is the opening of the Second Edition of Cinema Diva Film Festival. Once again Director Rudy Salazar is bringing Wael Kabbani whose documentary films have ended up on the short list for Academy Award nominations.

Wael is showing “Life is Sacred” a movie about change in Colombia he produced for Danish Director Andreas Dalsgaard. This important film from 2014, will be shown at Cinemex Galerias at 8 pm. Wael will host a Q & A afterwards, and, knowing him, it will be in various languages including French, Spanish, English and Arabic. Born in Damascus, raised in Saudi Arabia, schooled in Great Britain and now living in Montreal, I had the pleasure of meeting Wael Kabbani at Rudy’s first Film Festival. Not only is he an Executive Producer of documentary films (Open Bethlehem, We are Many with Danny Glover), he is a singer, songwriter, record producer and animator. Conversation with Wael is as far away from boring as is humanly possible. Over the three-day festival there will be films (many made locally), music and theatre. Stay tuned next week for more!

…and Goings CK Productions Splash and Dance 2 opened with the amazing Piel Canela.

Eduardo Leon and company wowed the

crowd with some of the best Latin dance tunes ever. You can see and hear Piel Canela a few nights a week at Garbo’s Bar on Pulpito. They were followed by Pacifico Tropical who were gracious enough to provide on the spot dance lessons. Look for this super six-piece band on the Malecon at Bar Oceano.

Nobody throws a party like Nathalie Herling of Art VallARTa. In a city bursting at its seams with artists, she has set the party bar so high that only she could outdo herself…and she did with her Halloween party!

A live band, full bar, sacred marigolds, altars, candles, the interior walls of the house were painted by artists that reflected the night’s theme of skeletons, black light and lovely weirdness. Every corner of her house had something in it celebrating the dead: simply to delight those living.

Nathalie never lacks volunteers to help her create Perfect Parties because her enthusiasm for all aspects of the Arts oozes out of her very pores. She LOVES Art. She LIVES Art and she inspires art just walking into a room. What a pleasure to just be in her company any time at all.

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Creative hands of Mexico

Leigh Thelmadatter

osomadre@hotmail.com

Photos of Dolls by Barbara Nettleton

Leigh Thelmadatter is a profesor at Tec de Monterrey, Mexico City, Wikipedian, and semi-professional researcher on Mexican handcrafts and folk arts. She has a blog called Creative Hands of Mexico and is working on a book on Mexican paper maché.

Dolls out of prison

Photos of dolls by Barbara Nettleton

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had no idea how much working on the dolls affected the women’s self-esteem. I have had comments like “I’ve been told all my life that I’m good for nothing, but I can create something this beautiful. So I now know that that’s not true.” – Rebecca Roth Sometimes treasures come out of unusual places and from unlikely circumstances.

Such is the case of Original Friends Dolls, a program for making one-of-a-kind cloth dolls in the Reclusorio Feminil of Puente Grande, just outside of Guadalajara, Mexico.

The story behind the dolls is a fascinating one. It started with Rebecca Roth, an American who moved to Mexico in 1998 and until early 2006, ran a business in Puerto Vallarta. In March of that year, she was taken

by Mexican authorities for questioning about an incident in 2001. Unfortunately, there is no presumption of innocence in Mexico upon accusation; Rebecca had to go to prison while her case wound through the court system for four years. Her case was finally dismissed for lack of evidence.

Prison is hard for anyone, but especially when you don’t know the language well, and find yourself shared a 6-person cell dormitory with 13 women and one young child. Rebecca found a number of outlets to help her cope with prison life, but the good to come out of this bad situation came in relation to the little girl.

Lupita at time was only 15 months old, having been born in the prison after her mother became pregnant after a conjugal visit from her husband. Mexican prisons allow such babies to stay with their mothers until age 3, but there isn’t much for a young child in such a place. Lupita had only a couple of empty plastic Coke bottle to play with. Having had taken some basic sewing classes, Rebecca decided Lupita needed a doll. She asked for scraps and created a doll with orange yarn hair, purple eyes, a white blouse and multi-colored skirt. Lupita fell in love with it instantly, and named the doll “Mia” (mine in Spanish). That doll went everywhere with the girl, including to Islas Marias facility that her mother was transferred to later on.

Rebecca didn’t think much more about the doll until a cellmate complained about the need to make better money than what the prison shops could afford. Mexican prisoners need to make money to pay for their basic supplies such as toilet paper, and the earning

opportunities are pitiful. Rebecca thought about the doll and suggested that they make some for an upcoming prison art show to see if they could sell. So Esmeralda Hernández José joined Rebecca to make the dolls and to their surprise, their first customer was the warden! The prison still very much supports the project, taking no cut of the proceeds and making sure visitors to the facility see it, as

Rebecca says, “… it gives them bragging rights.”

Before Rebecca’s release in 2010, the two women sold about one hundred dolls, to guards, visitors and others. Despite the unjust incarceration, Rebecca still loved Mexico and wanted to stay and continue the project, now called Original Friends Dolls, a name suggested by Esmeralda. The imprisoned

women who participate made about one doll a week and are paid for their production every Friday. It is up to Rebecca, Esmeralda and others to get them sold on the outside.

The program is so popular that is there is a waiting list.

1,500 named, number and signed dolls later, Original Friends have evolved quite a bit since the creation of Mia, although they are still made almost entirely of scraps, ribbons, lace, buttons and more, most of which is donated from the outside of the prison. The dolls are no longer meant to be children’s playthings but rather collectibles. Almost all are figures of women, with a few of men, and tend to be long and lithe, measuring about 60cm tall, with the exceptions of the mermaids which are “shorter” because of the curved tails. They have long extremities which are often movable.

One interesting technique is with the legs, with bendable knees achieved by making the legs in two pieces and connecting them with a large wood bead “knee.” Almost all have some kind of lace or sequins, jewelry or other sparkly bits. Faces are painted on but any small elements such as sequins, chains, glasses, etc. are sewn on, no glue guns used at all. Rebecca trains all the women that participate, and her basic design is influenced by the work of Elenor Peace Bailey and Patti Medaris Culea As they are collectibles, they are not cheap trinkets. Almost all the dolls for sale at the 2015 Feria Maestros del Arte ran for 1,200 Mexican pesos (about $90 USD).

The Feria is one of their main outlets, but the program is looking for more venues, as another prison, a small women’s facility in Ixtapa, has joined the program, allowing for much higher production.

To purchase the dolls locally contact Nathalie Herling at Art VallArta or online at prisondolls.com

Exciting Workshop Hosted in Vallarta Rebecca Roth will be holding a two-day workshop on creating these beautiful dolls in Old Town Puerto Vallarta towards the end of December. More details to come. Email originalfriendsdolls@gmail.com for more information.

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Beaches of Vallarta

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his list offers a quick guide to the most popular beaches from the International Airport south to the village of Yelapa.

Boca de Tomates: A great spot to see crocodiles, eat fresh caught seafood and visit the Turtle Rescue Camp. The beach isn’t great for swimming as the Rio Ameca runs just north of it, making the waters muddy and the bottom silty.

El Holi: Located at the mouth of the Pitillal River in front of Plaza Peninsula this beach has a great oyster shack set up during season.

Playa Camarones: Sometimes rocky, sometimes sandy this beach hosts Barracudas and El Solar, two great beachfront places to hang, day or night.

Olas Altas: You may find the waters suitable for surfing or boogie boarding near the River Cuale. Olas Altas starts at Daiquiri Dick's excellent restaurant and runs north to the River.

It attracts fewer sunbathers then Los Muertos but gets lively during holidays.

Los Muertos: Puerto Vallarta’s original happening beach, Playa los Muertos (Beach of the Dead), is action central for both locals and tourists alike. The flat stretch of sand starts south of the River Cuale and runs about 1.5 km (one mile) south while hugging the Romantic Zone. There is a non-stop parade of vendors hawking grilled fish on sticks, jewellery, sombreros and sarapes.

You can take a banana-boat ride, rent a stand-up paddle board, try out the jet boots or go para-sailing. A string of restaurants run the length of the beach, most with umbrellas and lounges for daytime and romantic tables for candlelight dining.

Las Amapas: Rocky with coves great for snorkeling. Not many vendors or services. Pack accordingly.

Conchas Chinas: South of Vallarta Playa Conchas Chinas features a series of rocky coves with crystalline water and millions of white shells broken and polished by the waves forming the sand. The individual coves are ideal for secluded sunbathing and snorkeling.

Garza Blanca: White pristine sand, beautiful beach in front of the ritzy Garza Blanca resort.

Playa Las Gemelas: The cleanest and most accessible beach

south of Vallarta. A huge swath of fine white sand with lots of families having picnics on the weekends.

Playa Mismaloya: Where the movie, The Night of the Iguana was made. Located in front of the excellent dive and snorkel spot of Los Arcos you can book snorkeling and jet skis off the beach.

A couple beach restaurants and vendors will keep you content throughout the day.

Boca de Tomatlan: Mostly a boat launch there is a small beach/tributary. This is where you hire water taxis to the beaches further south. Beaches south of Boca de Tomatlan are only accessible by boat or hiking, depending on your fitness level.

South of Boca de Tomatlan Colomitos: Many in the know hike to this beach, which is moderate 45 minute hike. It’s also home to the popular Ocean Grill restaurant.

Reservations are a must to eat at Ocean Grill.

Playa Caballo: A relatively new edition to the beach club scene, Maraika Beach Club makes this a popular spot for beautiful people. Reservations during the weekends if you want a beach table.

Las Ánimas: Because of its shallow waters, Playa last Animas is ideal for children and often fills up with families on weekends and holidays. A few seafood restaurants line the sand. You can also ride a banana boat or go parasailing.

Quimixto: Charming tiny town with just a couple restaurants and a beautiful waterfall hike. Rent horses and make a day of it.

Majahuitas: Often touted as the best snorkeling and dive spot in the Bay. The waters here are clear and there is plenty of fish and sea turtles to spy on.

Las Caletas: Former home of John Houston, this beach is the home of the Rhythms of the Night as well as a popular spot for weddings and a stopping point on many Vallarta Adventure tours.

Yelapa: This once tiny hippy haven has boomed in recent years and now sports both electricity and cell phone towers, but remains only accessible by boat.

Still a treat for a day or a week, the beach is lovely. The town is charming and there are two relatively accessible waterfalls. If you’re a nature enthusiast, the flora and fauna around Yelapa are amazing.

Towns to the south and north of Vallarta 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 laid-back 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.

La Cruz - A quiet fishing village with one of the best family beaches in the bay, La Cruz is also home to the Marina Rivera Nayarit which is one of the largest marinas along the Pacific coast. La Cruz is famous for is many muscical residents and evenings are often filled with live music and great friends.

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 blue-footed Booby. Back behind the town, check out the Vallarta Zoo where you can play with baby monkeys, tigers and lions.

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A Passion for Butterflies

By Moralea Milne

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ne of the most pleasant aspects of retirement is finding you now have the leisure to explore and enjoy new interests. The last few years I have been visiting Mexico more and more often.

One of my children has settled there, friends are vacationing and buying property in different areas of Mexico and I find the culture, climate and biodiversity both intriguing and relaxing. One of the passions I indulge on every possible occasion (along with chocolate…) is the thrilling hunt to find moth and butterfly species; whether new, or familiar favourites, they all bring delight!

Mexico has a huge diversity of butterflies, at least 1,750 species can be found there. From the lowlands to the mountaintops, from the plains to the mangroves, there are always some butterflies on the prowl. Of course you will find more species at certain times of the year, when nectar-laden flowers reach peak abundance.

Butterflies are not only beautiful flying jewels (the iridescent blues of a Two-barred Flasher or the complex and vibrant patterning of a Tanmark will take your breath away), but they also exhibit fascinating strategies for survival.

Hairstreaks have a threadlike tail that can be mistaken for the butterfly’s antennae. A hungry bird will often notice the tail first and take a bite, which, if luck is with the butterfly, will only damage the wings. I’ve seen countless butterflies with bits and pieces missing, but they are still able to pursue their primary focus, to find a mate.

The large “eyes” that can be found on Buckeyes and Owlets (and many moths) are another example of false targets.

Some butterflies use colouration as camouflage, the green of a Malachite can be difficult to find amid the lush subtropical forest it inhabits, while the shape and subtle shades of a Leafwing make it almost indistinguishable from a dead leaf. Caterpillars of Viceroy and Swallowtail butterflies resemble bird droppings at some point in their development.

Mimicry is another form of protection. Sporting similar colours to a Monarch, which is poisonous, can deceive a predator into thinking that you, too, are not worth the risk of indigestion.

Did you know that butterflies

Ceraunus Blue-female

Giant Silk Moth

Malachite

Slaty Skipper

Orange Banner will sip from almost any flower that supplies nectar, but their caterpillar young feed only on very specific plants? Many people are delighted by butterflies and grow flowers that attract them into their gardens. However, if you don’t know which foods nourish the caterpillars (passionflowers for Zebra Heliconians and Gulf Fritillaries), you might inadvertently be removing and killing their juvenile stage.

Learning the life histories of any species gives me a greater understanding of their needs and

the importance of preserving their habitat.

Protecting natural habitat insures that food plants for all stages of their butterfly lives are available and we can continue to be enchanted at their flamboyant or cryptic forms far into the future.

If you’re interested in identifying Mexican butterflies, there is a great field guide available for sale online: A Swift Guide to Butterflies of Mexico and Central America by Jeffrey Glassberg at sunstreakbooks.com Original: Mexi-Go.ca

White Enops

White Morpho

White Peacock

events

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wenty-two years of tradition, three masters of gourmet cuisine, seven countries, 10 days for lovers of good eats, three host cities, 27 restaurants, 30 guest chefs, 18 grand culinary events and three tasting and lunch workshops.

The XXII Festival Gourmet Internacional Puerto Vallarta-Riviera Nayarit-Tepic will take place November 11-20, 2016. The gourmet tradition par excellence is back!

The so-called “Three Musketeers”— Thierry Blouet, Heinz Reize and Roland Menetrey— announced that everything is ready once again for the gastronomy of this region to headline a festival of flavors.

“For 22 years the Festival Gourmet has stirred the gastronomic pot in this region, 22 years that fine dining has completely renewed our culinary offerings and our destinations of Puerto Vallarta, Riviera Nayarit and, more recently, Tepic,” said Heinz Reize.

“This dream began with a lot of

hard work. This year the program is awesome and very interesting with lots of new events; it truly is one of a kind. This is the only event on a national level of this scale and the only one that involves all of the destinations’ restaurants,” commented Thierry Blouet.

Twenty-two years of tradition, three masters of gourmet cuisine, seven countries represented, 10 days for lovers of good food, three host cities, 27 restaurants, 30 guest chefs, 18 grand culinary events and three tasting and lunch workshops.

Each participating restaurant will accommodate a national or international guest chef, who will offer their creations alongside the local host chefs.

Throughout the history of the festival it has had the participation of over 500 top national and international chefs and over 500 thousand dinner guests have enjoyed the pleasure of their culinary delights. The first edition took place in 1995 with only six hotels and six restaurants.

Nov 3rd - 9, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

riviera nayarit

14

Life In La Cruz Cindy Bouchard

Fun on the Riviera Nayarit Cat Morgan www.rivieranayaritfun.com Cat@RivieraNayaritFun.com

cindy@VillaAmordelMar.com

Cindy Bouchard, an expat Canadian runs a Boutique Inn, Villa Amor del Mar in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle. She and her husband Chris are living and lovin’ in Vallarta–Nayarit. If you want more info on La Cruz or desire… A very special vacation contact cindy@VillaAmordelMar.com

Tucked away and tasty – Falconi’s

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ucked away on a side street of La Cruz you’ll find a wonderful little pizza place called Falconi’s Pizza, Pasta & Bar. Shaul Falcon Amezcua and his brother, Diego, are the owners; Shaul manages the restaurant. Everyone that works there is family or friends.

Growing up in La Cruz, they say they stayed here because of the “Good people in the town, all our family and friends, and it is a very peaceful place.”

Choosing the name; “We wanted to mix our last name and an italian concept for the restaurant”. Shaul says he appreciates that people like the restaurant by itself, for the food and the service, not just because they know them and have been friends for a long time.

Falconi’s always serves quality food with their speciality being the calzone and pizzas.

They make it their own unique way, Shaul calling it “our style” and it’s not made in the traditional way, “but the people who try it like it and come back!”

Many at our inn have it delivered or go to the restaurant and love it. Their service is fabulous and we hear rave reviews. Not being able to eat pizza and pasta due to allergies I was thrilled when a friend recomended the Chicken Parmigiana and it was delicious!

The salads are great too!

Shaul and his brother are pleased and grateful that in a short period of time they have many regular customers and to him that proves they are doing a good job. He considers their measure of success, “that we have more and more regular customers, and each year we get more and more”. When many of

Nov 3rd - 9, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

H

ey Everybody! The best times are those shared with family and friends.

This past Sunday I was fortunate to go sailing with dear friends Andy and Liz Barrow from Nuevo Vallarta to Las Animas.

My girlfriend Liz LOVES to go parasailing.

Everywhere Liz goes, her dog Spot goes too.

Sunday she went parasailing with Spot!

This was a first for the guys at Las Animas, as well as the new Go Pro! Check out the video here! https://youtu.be/ OZmK130-X2c What a crazy FUN friend!

GLORIA’S PLACE of La Cruz has moved to Bucerias. The new location for her fabulous styles and so much more is 38A Lazaro Cardenas, 1 block from DeCameron Resort. Monday thru Friday 10 am - 7 pm, Saturday 10 am - 4 pm. Closed Sunday’s.

La Cruz’s restaurants close for the summer, Falconi’s does their best to stay open. They will take a few days here and there for their staff to enjoy a rest.

“Many people leave for six months and we don’t have much work during that time. My wish is that somebody will make an attraction that keeps more regular jobs over the summer.”

When I asked him about challenges and rewards, Shaul told me, “As with all the new restaurants, it is difficult to make yourself known; being patient and waiting for our customers to recommend us to their friends takes time.

At first it was difficult, but with many thanks to frequent recommendations by our customers, many people know us and come back with more friends every year. Depending on the month and season we have national, local and international clientele.”

Shaul is inspired when customers say “Hey, great pizza, the best in town,” or something like that. He says it makes them feel great. Don’t we all adore appreciation?

When I asked about living in an oceanfront town and what water activities he prefers he answered, “Well, now I just work, but when I was younger I used to boogy board and play football at the beach.”

Oh the joys of adulthood and responsibility! I suggest a football match on the beach one day and then dinner at Falconi’s!

Shaul is appreciative to the marina and the changes it brought to La Cruz. “The marina of La Cruz changed the town completely. I have met great people and am thankful for that.

Actually the oportunities now are so much better than 15 years ago, when I started to work”.

Bucerias Art Walk Celebrates 10 Years of Success Last Thursday was the kick-off for the Bucerias Art Walk celebrating 10 years of success with the kudo’s going to the creator Christy Ann Beguesse from the Bucerias Art Walk Plaza and all of the Bucerias art galleries that participate. It’s fun to walk around town on Lazaro Cardeñas popping in art galleries, sipping wine and enjoying a tasty treat. The Bucerias Art Walk Plaza offers Tamales, Sangria and a taste of Tequila most Thursdays. Thursdays: 7pm throughout the high season.

Let’s Help FEED the HUNGRY! Mark your calendars for these events!!

High Season is here and the John Ozzello Memorial Food Bank and Humanitarian Aid continue to host fund raisers to feed the

hungry in the bay. Volunteers are always needed! I have listed half of the fundraisers and projects, so please check next week’s PV Tribune issue for the remainder.

December 14th at 10am, “Elves at YoYo Mo’s” in Bucerias Centro. We bake and package cookies to go along with our monthly despensas.

Home-baked cookies drop off at YoYo Mo’s between December 10-December 12.

December 15th at 10am, Drunken Duck, Bucerias. Wrapping Christmas presents for children in Bucerias and Tecuani.

Please come help us! We need 50 volunteers as 1400 gifts need to be wrapped.

December 24, we will be handing out gifts to the children in Bucerias.

We need 30 volunteers to help. Please send us an email. For more information please email: rsnystrom@ hotmail.com or call cell: 322 240 1082.

Dakota Pipeline Awareness Gathering in Bucerias Sandi Nystrom and Brette Viksor are planning a gathering Sunday, Nov. 5th, 2pm at the Buzo Statue at the square to raise awareness and stand in solidarity with protectors of land and water in Standing Rock, North Dakota USA. Oil Companies work to build the Dakota Pipeline that cross several states and the Missouri River to reach the Gulf of Mexico.

The gathering will last about one hour. For more information contact Sandi at: rsnystrom@hotmail.com .

The Amigos de Bucerias breakfast meetings are held on the first Saturday of each month at Ixta Restaurant beginning at 9:15. All are welcome to attend; reservations required for breakfast.

Thanks so much for tuning in! Have a SUPER week! If you have any questions please contact me directly at Cat@RivieraNayaritFun.com AHO!

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riviera nayarit

Nov 3rd - 9, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

5 Safest Beaches For Kids in Riviera Nayarit

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ucerías, Destiladeras, Matanchén, Rincón de Guayabitos and Las Islitas top the list of best choices to take the kids for a swim.

The Riviera Nayarit offers hundreds of miles of beaches for every taste thanks to the different conditions present along the coast.

Here’s a list of the Top 5 Safest Beaches for kids. In addition to these beaches there are dozens of excellent places to enjoy with your children including the Blue Flag beach in Nuevo Vallarta. #5- Bucerías (Northern Area), Bahía de Banderas Beaches on bays are usually safer than those on the open water: case in point, the beach at Bucerías, especially the Northern area that’s closest to La Cruz de Huanacaxtle.

This beach has the best wind in the region, mild waves and firm sand. And, the small waves that do break on the sand don’t make it past burrito class.

Bucerias is also a charming fishing town with excellent beachfront restaurants and a cute souvenir market. #4- Destiladeras, Punta de Mita, Bahía de Banderas Even though this beach has waves of up to 3 and 4 meters and is located at the edge of the bay where the currents are stronger, it’s on the list because those waves break some 10 to 15 meters from shore, giving it many meters up front of solid sand with very little irregularities, making it a perfect spot for kids to wait for the gentle ripples that make it to shore.

Destiladeras also offers beachfront dining with chair and umbrella rental. While busy with families on Sundays, this huge beach has plenty of space and is perfect for a lazy day at the beach. #3- Bahía de Matanchén, San Blas This ample bay comes with waves, but it also boasts one of the widest stretches of sand in the entire state. Though there are a lot of waves, they’re usually on the small side and the currents are light and easy to manage.

Also renowned for its fresh oysters, many Nationals from the nearby cities of Tepic and Guadalajara have beachfront vacation homes along this beach. #2- Rincón de Guayabitos, Compostela

Playa Bucerias

This one is considered by many to be Mexico’s largest swimming pool. Just like Matanchén and Bucerías, Guayabitos has the privilege of being on a bay: the Bahía de Jaltemba.

Its small waves and firm, sandy bottom allow kids to wade in as far as they’re comfortable, making it a very safe choice.

The town of Guayabitos is in a bit of a renaissance with huge improvements being made to the infrastructure and new hotels and dining options opening each day. If you haven’t been in a while, its worth a revisit. #1- Las Islitas, San Blas If Guayabitos is considered a swimming pool, then Las Islitas is a wading pool. For most of the year there aren’t waves, not even burritos or anything, just a small tide that moves the water.

And, as if that weren’t enough, you can walk into the water for at least 10 meters without it going over a meter in depth. For a special treat stop along the way at one of the many road side stands selling fresh baked banana bread and nut muffins.

Playa Guayabitos

Playa Las Islitas

Playa Mantenchen

Playa Destiladeras

C

15% Off

With This Coupon

Unique Design, Handmade in Mexico Accessories, Clothing, Crafts ...

Agustin Rodriguez 267 Downtown PV 2229033 & Rodolfo Gomez 108 Romantic Zone 2229360 Catedral Boutique Artesanal @CatedralBoutique

Frankies has gone crazy!

Happy hour from 5:00-7:00pm 20% off all food and drinks

valid from Nov 3 - 10, 2016 Open from Wednesday to Saturday from 5-11pm Venustiano Carranza 276 Zona Romรกntica 223 2267

events

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Nov 3rd - 9, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Literary giant in Mexican theatre opens Boutique season Two-woman smash now playing

SPCA of Puerto Vallarta

By Janice Gonzalez

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on’t forget to come and say hello on opening day of the Old Town Farmers Saturday, November 5. Our terrific volunteers Lynnette, Michelle and Mark will be there waiting to welcome our friends back to town.

Be sure to ask about our annual fundraiser November 26.

There are still a few tickets available. This is our one and only fundraiser for the year and we look forward to a sellout.

Once again, we are welcoming back our guest speaker and honorary board member Steve Dale, a renowned certified animal behavior consultant. Come 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.

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 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.

Opening the Boutique Dinner Theatre season is the controversial two-woman play, penned by Emilio Carballido. He’s been compared to the playwrights Arthur Miller and Tennessee Williams. Upon his death in 2008, the governor of Veracruz, Mexico, ordered a day of mourning, and named a top literary prize after him.

“A Two-Scented Rose,” originally written as “La Rosa De Dos Aromas,” tells a farcical tale of two women who collide under surprising circumstances. With hilarious satirical social commentary, and heart-wrenching confessions, the show follows the women’s unlikely journey together. Revelations about love, jealousy, betrayal, and friendship explode in the side-splitting plot antics. Set for Nov. 3-12 at The Boutique, “La Rosa de Dos Aromas” has been translated and directed by T.J. Hartung. It was performed in Spanish in Puerto Vallarta about a dozen years ago, and this is the first time it will be performed in English here. The play stars Catalina Meders and Catherine Beeghly, who have performed together in four shows at The Boutique.

NOVEMBER Also in November will be “The Oldest Profession,” directed by Ralph Hyman, Nov. 17-26. This hilarious comedy follows the lives of five aging prostitutes. Watch these high-kicking 70-somethings share their stories with laughter

Adorable Dog In The Spotlight... DOLLY

by Janice Gonzalez

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ell hello Dolly! This cutie is just two years old and only weighs nine pounds. A Chihuahua mix, she is sweet and cuddly. She can be a bit timid until she gets to know you, but then all she wants is some loving.

Unlike some Chihuahuas, Dolly is a pretty mellow girl and gets along fine with other dogs and even cats. She has been spayed, dewormed and fully vaccinated. This black beauty just needs someone who will give her all the love she deserves. We just know there is the perfect home just waiting for her. If you think it’s you, contact us as spcapv@gmail. com for an application.

and song.

Starting Wednesday, Nov. 16, Mikki Prost stars in her hit one-woman show, “Walkin’ After Midnight: A Tribute to Patsy Cline.” Prost is beloved to her audiences for the shows she researches, writes, and performs.

Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. are reserved for her endearing and inspirational tribute shows.

This is her sixth season presenting the show. Fans know Mikki updates her shows each year with d i ffe re n t songs and

stories. Join us to find out what Mikki has up her sleeve—and tucked inside that cowgirl hat.

About The Boutique Dinner Theatre The Boutique Dinner Theatre offers exciting evenings of dinner-and-ashow options.

The theatre is located upstairs at Nacho Daddy, 287 Basilio Badillo. Delicious three-course dinners are served at 5 p.m., with the shows at 6 p.m.

On Wednesdays only, the shows start at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets cost $250 pesos for the show only; or $525 pesos for dinner and the show. Dinner choices are Fillet Mignon, or Chicken Cordon Bleu, with mashed potatoes and a vegetable medley. Vegetarians can order the Chile Relleno with rice and beans.

All dinners come with a house salad, dessert and a beverage.

Theater-goers can also order separately from Nacho Daddy’s “MexTex” favorites, such as the Steak Nachos, and Tortilla Soup.

Check for ongoing updates and

fun facts from The Boutique Dinner Theatre on facebook. For information call 322-192-4616.

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Farmer’s Markets

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ost Farmers Markets run from November through April, though a couple are all year round. Typically they start about 9am and end between 1 and 2pm. Each is a little different and all of them are fabulous! A not-to-be-missed experience!

PUERTO VALLARTA Saturday 9:30 -2pm Old Town Farmers Market November 5th to April 29th in Park Lazaro Cardenas Saturday 9 – 1pm Three Hens and a Rooster Market Year round at Venustiano Carranza 466 in Emiliano Zapata Friday 9:30 – 1:30pm Marsol Friday Market by the Pier Year round at Marsol Hotel Lobby in Old Town.

Thursday 6 – 10pm Marina Vallarta Market runs every Thursday evening from November 3rd to the end of April along the boardwalk in Marina Vallarta.

NUEVO VALLARTA Tuesday 9-2pm Riviera Nayarit Farmers’ Market Parking lot at the Business Center; Saturday 9-2pm Tianguis Artesanal Nuevo Vallarta in the Marina Nuevo Vallarta

BUCERIAS Monday 9-1pm Monday Market – along Lazaro Cardenas Wednesday Forever Spring 9-1pm – along Lazaro Cardenas

LA CRUZ Sunday 10-2pm La Cruz Sunday Market - over 200 vendors. The Bay’s largest market along the Marina Riviera Nayarit

SAYULITA & SAN PANCHO Friday 10-2pm Mercado del Pueblo on Revolucion Street in Sayulita. Great market with many venders available only here. Much is organic and local.

Tuesdays 10-2pm Mercado del Sol in San Pancho at the Plaza del Sol

LO DE MARCOS, GUAYABITOS, CHACALA AND LA PEÑITA Saturday 9-2pm The Tianguis Lo de Marcos is held on Luis Echeverría street Saturday 9-1pm The Chacala Cultural Market in the main Plaza. (Opening Nov.19) Monday 8-1pm Guayabitos Market on the main plaza in town Thursday 8-1pm La Peñita Market on its main plaza.

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Nov 3rd - 9, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

See What You´ve Been Missing at the Biblioteca Los Mangos!

By Gretchen DeWitt

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hom of you reading this hasn´t been lately or has never been to the Biblioteca los Mangos? If you would be raising your hand in answer to either of these questions, you are missing out! In case you didn´t know, the Los Mangos Library isn´t just about books and it isn´t just for nationals.

Founded 20 years ago this November, the Biblioteca los Mangos is more than a lending library. It has been and continues to be the cultural center for Puerto Vallarta, offering film screenings, concerts, art exhibits, book signings, poetry readings, literary clubs, plays, dance festivals and performances, special events, and a variety of workshops and classes for adults and children.

Although there are small charges for the above cultural events and programs, all library services are free, which include membership card, borrowing of books (more than 35,000 books in English and

in Spanish), use of computers with internet connection, and the library´s reading clubs. The library also provides special training for performing artists and serves as a meeting place for community volunteer groups and special needs groups.

Privately funded, the library is open to the public, Monday to Friday from 10 am to 9 pm and on Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm.

You are invited to take advantage

of the many services and events at the los Mangos Library and to join the celebration of the 20th anniversary party.

For details, please check the website.

The Biblioteca los Mangos is located at a very central and convenient location - Av. Francisco Villa # 1001, Col. Los Mangos in Puerto Vallarta www.bibliotecalosmangos.com

American Legion and Navy League Participate in Veterans Day and Remembrance Day Events

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merican Legion Post 14 and the Puerto Vallarta Navy League invite all American, Canadian and Mexican citizens to celebrate these commemorative holidays with events on November 11th and 12th.

Veterans Day is an opportunity to honor U.S. military veterans.

Remembrance Day is observed in Commonwealth countries to commemorate the end of World War I, which ended on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 2018. Poppies will be available.

On November 11th, we will meet at Steve’s Sports Bar on Basilio Badillo, (Post 14 Head Quarters) at 10 am for free coffee and pastries.

(Breakfast will be available for purchase.) At 10:40 am, we will walk down to Lazaro Cardenas Park, for the 11am Service.

Flamingos Golf Tournament The 18-hole scramble on November 11 at 9:30 a.m. at Flamingos Golf is open to military veterans of any country and their guests. The $1,300 peso entry fee

includes green fees, cart, food and beverages. A veteran must play in each foursome.

Coco Tropical Autumn Fest This special Swiss-German Buffet is offered one night only — November 12 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. A generous selection of delicious specialties, including salads, main dishes and desserts are on the menu. Plus live entertainment. $500 peso donation. This is a Navy League fundraiser to help finance their numerous community relations projects.

The American Legion is a non-profit, nonpartisan organization devoted to the needs of military veterans, their families, and their communities. Legion Post 14 participates in numerous community projects in the Puerto Vallarta area, with emphasis on women’s and children’s causes. Charities include the Banderas Bay Women’s Shelter, DIF New Life Home for young boys, and Torpedos American Football for boys. The Legion, along with financial support from

the Jay Sadler Project, is continuously involved with numerous service projects in the community, including the CADI Nursery/ Day Care Center, Col. Las Palmas Community Center, Col. Volcanas Community Center, Coapinole La Lagina Playground, Col. Magisterio Playground, and the playgrounds at San Vicente del Mar and El Guamuchil, plus many others.

The Legion and the Navy League welcome any and all armed services veterans to take part in these events, and if they wish, learn more about the benefits of American Legion and Navy League membership.

Post 14 American Legion meetings are held the 1st Thursday and 3rd Tuesday each month. Visitors are welcome.

For more information and meeting locations, visit AmericanLegion14.org or contact dennis2rike@hotmail.com or snafrancis@ hotmail.com.

The Puerto Vallarta Navy League meets the first Tuesday of each month at the Marriott. Coffee and pastry are provided. Visitors are welcome.

For further information contact Dennis Rike, Post Commander dennis2rike@hotmail.com

events

Nov 3rd - 9, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Fiesta en La Calle

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s those who live in the Bay year round know, November is one of the most exciting months of the year as it marks the annual departure of humidity and the return of our favorite seasonal residents. November 2nd is Dia De Los Muertos, one of Mexico’s most cherished holidays, and now Los Muertos Brewing has added another reason to celebrate in November with the creation of their annual anniversary block party.

We caught up with Conner Watts, owner and brewmaster of Los Muertos Brewing, for the event details.

Banderas: How did this annual party come about?

Conner: We knew from the day we opened that we wanted to have an annual anniversary party. Not only as a celebration and thank you to our customers but a great opportunity to give back to the community. Being named “Los Muertos Brewing” it made perfect sense to open on November 2nd have the party on “Dia de los muertos”. Unfortunately as the party has grown we now schedule the party annual-

ly for the first Saturday of November instead of sticking to the 2nd.

Banderas: Is this the third or fourth year now?

Conner: This is year four.

Banderas: For what charity will you be raising money this year?

Conner: This year we’re benefitting a local orphanage called Refugio Infantil Santa Esperanza.

Banderas: How many bands do you have lined up?

Conner: This year we have 5 bands lined up that range from rock, blues and funk all the way to traditional Mexican mariachi music.

Banderas: What time will the music kick off and at what time will it end?

Conner: Music starts a 2pm and goes until 11:00pm.

Banderas: Will there be food as well?

Conner: We serve our normal menu throughout the event. We go through more pizza this day than any other in the year.

Banderas: Is there anything new this year?

Conner: We have a group of

local ballet dancers that will be dressed in Dia de Los Muertos attire dancing traditional routines. They are scheduled to perform after the first band finishes at about 3:30.

Banderas: Anything else you want to add?

Conner: Every year the Fiesta en La Calle is free to the public. We›re able to make it into a fundraiser by donating the proceeds for the day to our chosen charity.

This was really important to us because we wanted to make sure everyone felt included and could give by simply having a good time dancing in the street.

Banderas: You close the side street down completely for the party right?

Conner: That’s right. Calle Constitución between Lázaro Cárdenas and Venustiano Carranza in Old Town Vallarta will be closed to traffic but open to funkygood-times!

Come on by and enjoy the festivities!

Original: http://banderas.co

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An Extraordinary Evening Under the Stars

By Janice Gonzales

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ickets are now on sale for an extraordinary “Evening Under the Stars.” This special event is the annual fundraiser for the SPCA de Puerto Vallarta. This year’s festivities will be held on Saturday, November 26, 2016.

Guests will gather in Puerto del Cielo, the gorgeous event room across from the main entrance to Hacienda San Angel. Beginning at 6:00 pm, attendees will be treated to cocktails and appetizers followed by a delicious four-course meal at 7:30 pm.

Entertainment will be provided by the superb Mariachi band, La Joya de Mexico.

There will be a number of items available as part of a silent auction, as well as items auctioned off by the renowned auctioneer, Robert Burkheimer. This event, one of the most popular every season, is not to be missed.

Tickets are $120 USD or $2200 pesos. Seating is limited, and there

are limited tickets remaining.

For tickets or more information contact us at spcapv@gmail.com.

Janice Chatterton has totally underwritten this event for the animals, so 100% percent of the proceeds will go to the SPCA de PV. About the SPCA de PV The mission of SPCA de PV is to help fund and promote sterilization, adoption and health care efforts for companion animals in the Puerto Vallarta area, with the goal of elimi-

nating the euthanasia of healthy and adoptable animals. In January 2012 they opened a sanctuary on the outskirts of town. It is a no-kill shelter and can house up to 130 animals at once.

The people at the shelter are devoted to the animal’s physical and emotional rehabilitation and everyone is invite to come out and interact with the animals.

To see the animals available for adoption, visit the SPCA de PV Facebook page.

The World on Your TV

El Mundo en su TV is offering an 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.

about everything on our website at 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. If You would also have almost all live you wish a demonstration in our office, sporting events, all movies and all TV 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

Nov 3rd - 9, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

events

22 November 5 Fiesta en la Calle – Los Muertos Brewery Live music, great food and local beer. 2-10pm Lazaro Cardenas 302 November 10-13 2nd Annual Cinema DiVa Film Festival films, music and theatre events – all events are free to attend. More details to come.

November 11 Remembrance Day/ Veterans Day Hosted by the American Legion and Navy League 10am Steve’s Sports Bar on Basilio Badillo, Old Town 11am Service held at Lazaro Cardenas Park Flamingos Golf Tournament 9:30 am - $1300 entry fee -open to any military veteran and their families.

November 12 Coco Tropical Autumn Fest Navy League Fundraiser 5:30pm-8:30pm $500peso buffet with monies raised donated towards ongoing Navy League projects.

November 12 Dia National del Libro Los Arcos, Malecon 5pm-9:30pm Dance, music, books November 12-13 ConComics Biblioteca los Mangos November 12-20 XXII International Festival Gourmet The Puerto Vallarta-Riviera Nayarit-Tepic International Gourmet Festival is one of the most impor-

Nov 3rd - 9, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

tant culinary events in the country. www.festivalgourmet.com/.

November 13 IFC Opening Brunch River Café 10am 250pesos IFCvallarta.com November 13 2nd Triatlón Extreme Guayabitos 2016 Open Invite for all triathletes, clubs, leagues, public and private associations, schools and the general public both domestic and national.

November 19 8th Riviera Nayarit Touristic Half Marathon and 10K The Half Marathon and 10K is hosted in Nuevo Vallarta and it’s expected to be even bigger this year! mediomaratonrivieranayarit.com/ November 20 Vallarta Yacht Club Opening Day Nuevo Vallarta – Meet and Greet with food and beverages November 20 Third Annual Spaghetti Friend-Raiser at the Puerto Vallarta Fire Department, Avenida Las Americas. 3-6pm Tickets are $150p and can be purchased at the booth at the Old Town Farmers Market.

November 20 Dia de Revolution – National Holiday.

November 23 Biblioteca los Mangos 20th Anniversary Celebrate the 20th Anniversary of Vallarta’s only public library. bibliotecalosmangos.com November 26 Under the Stars benefit dinner and auction for SPCA de PV Puerto del Cielo, 6pm.

Tickets at spcapv(at)gmail.com.

November 24-27 V Motomanía San Blas Over one thousand motorcycles will converge on the Historic Port of San Blas to celebrate this very special event where, among other things, there will be lots of dancing, exhibits, races and fun!

November 26-27 Expo Tattoo International Hotel Krystal 11am facebook.com/ExpoTattooPuertoVallarta November 29 Cena Blanco – Amigos de La Cruz Welcome Back Dinner Dress all in white and enjoy this 3-course dinner catered by the Frascati Chef. Secret location! Meet at La Cruz Marina to be shuttled to the event.

More details in the ad. Prizes, Live music. Funds raised to support Amigos de La Cruz initiatives. www.amigodelacruz.org December 5 Bucerias Children’s Christmas Fundraiser Drunken Duck, Bucerias Doors open at 2pm Tickets are $200p Live music, specials, raffle and prizes.

Vallarta Yacht Club invites you to celebrate opening day

S

unday November 20 is the annual Vallarta Yacht Opening Day of the Boating Season Celebration. Opening Day is a ceremony and celebration that marks the traditional start of the boating season.

Similar celebrations happen at Yacht Clubs throughout the world.

This event starts at 11:00 am and will be held at the Vallarta Yacht

Club’s clubhouse located adjacent to Paradise Village Resort and Marina.

Key elements of VYC’s Opening Day include the traditional Flag Ceremony followed by a Public Open House and presentation of the 2016/2017 events calendar.

At 12:30 pm VYC’s junior sailors will host other youths from Guadalajara, La Cruz, and La Marina

for day 2 of the annual “Dia de la Revolucion Regata”. Members and guests will have the opportunity to sign-up to go aboard one of the Club’s motorboats and observe the kids challenging each other’s sailing skills.

For more information contact Rudy or Daniel at 322-297-2222 or visit the VYC website www.vallartayachtclub.org.

Spaghetti Friend-Raiser celebrates third year

S

uperman, Spiderman, and Batman – they are whom many consider heroes. But it is the firefighters and lifeguards who come to our rescue and save the lives of our loved ones day in and day out - all in all, they are the reallife heroes.

On Sunday, November 20th, 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm, you are invited to attend the Third Annual Spaghetti

Friend-Raiser at the Puerto Vallarta Fire Department on Avenida Las Americas near the Municipal Stadium. A live auction, 50/50 raffle, station tour, NEW hot-off-thepress tee-shirts and live music will complement the great food donated by local businesses.

Our last event, which was the catalyst to launch the annual Heroes Calendar, attracted hundreds of

caring residents and visitors and generated nearly 50,000 pesos to support our first-responders, the 90 men and women of the Puerto Vallarta Fire Department. In addition to the funds, 250 kilos --- over 500 pounds --- of “Bring-a-Thing” items were also donated. Tim Longpre, Gary Green, Pam Thompson, Kelly Trainor, Cindy DuChateau Ramirez, Bert Ramirez, and Eden Brizio

serve on this year’s committee and remind people that space is limited to just 200 so don’t delay in purchasing your tickets, priced at just $150 pesos, through the committee members, at Saturday’s Farmers Market in Lazaro Cardenas Park or online at www.bomberoscalendar. com.

In addition to tickets, the Department is hoping event-goers will

contribute to “Bring-a-Thing” by donating ace wraps, antibiotic ointment, cleaning supplies, gauze sterile dressings, non-sterile and sterile gloves, over-the-counter medicines for pain relief, personal hygiene supplies, powdered infant formula, thermometers, toothbrushes and toothpaste, towels, vitamins, cleaning supplies, crutches and other items.

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Help Support OPC!

O

ficina de Proyectos Culturales (OPC) is located in the heart of downtown Puerto Vallarta, at the crossroads of tourists and locals alike, two blocks from the malécon and meters from the oldest primary school in the area. Through a generous donation for the use of the building, the OPC building has been transformed from an abandoned Sherwin-Williams paint store to a dynamic interdisciplinary space devoted to the contemporary arts.

In just 2 short years, OPC has become one of the top cultural institutions in Puerto Vallarta. Since opening on May 28, 2014, OPC has presented 10 successful exhibitions, hosted numerous lectures by visiting artists and curators, initiated a very-well received educational workshop for children, and participated in annual events in the city.

OPC has an incredible 2016-2017

season planned with both national and international exhibitions, film screenings, lectures, curator-led gallery walk throughs, and youth workshops. But they need your help to continue with their programming.

They are currently crowdfun-

ding and all funds raised will go directly to producing their dynamic exhibitions and developing educational programming for children and youth—all workshops are free to the public.

The current show at OPC is a

modern look at cultural symbols found in life at the ranch. Ranchitos are often small towns set up to service a particular industry.

For example, you can find many ranchitos in Nayarit on the roads to San Blas that are based

around growing tobacco. The residents may own or lease the land and work together communally to ensure a better harvest.

To donate to the continued success of OPC visit www.crowdrise.com/help-support-opc

raffle of excellent prizes. Tickets for the brunch are $250 pesos each and can be purchased online at www.ifcvallarta.com, under Special Events, or from the IFC office, which is at the north-east corner of the bridge where Insurgentes crosses the Rio Cuale.

On that same evening of Sunday 13th November, you’re invited to one of the very special projects that IFC supports. Alas School of Song (Alas Escuela De Canto) will be perfor-

ming in the main theatre of Stages at 7:00pm. The theatre is located on Basilio Badillo at Insurgentes (above Wings Army) and the cost of this live show, with about forty singers, and dancers is a paltry $200 pesos. “Alas” has been wowing audiences for four years with their wonderful singing and dancing.

The kids range in age between six and twenty and some of them would be unable to participate in this group if it had not received the support from IFC. It will be a great way to start your winter’s smorgasbord of live music and performance.

Hablas español? Do you speak Spanish? Would you like to learn or improve your grasp of this Romantic language? IFC has the answer for you. Our Spanish classes have already started and are held every morning on Monday, Tuesday and Friday. Intermediate One goes from 9:00 to 10:00, Intermediate Two from 10:15 to 11:15, Advanced from 11:30 to 12:30 and Tourist Spanish from 12:45 to 1:45. (This class is for beginners, short-term vacationers and anyone else who just wants

to drop in to check things out). The cost of the class is $75 pesos for members of IFC and $90 pesos for non-members. Our teacher this season is Adriana Bedolla who is returning for her third season and is hugely popular with her students. The classes are held at the clubhouse, at the north-east corner of the bridge where Insurgentes crosses the Rio Cuale.

On 29th November our IFC Home Tours will roll out the air-conditioned buses for the first time this season.

Visitors are taken to 4 beautiful homes by knowledgeable docents who will escort you around some of the more beautiful homes in PV. Tours leave every Tuesday and Wednesday at 10:30 from the Sea Monkey Restaurant, located at Aquiles Serdan on the beach.

Tickets are available at the IFC office between, 9:00am and 1:30pm on Monday to Friday, online at www. ifctoursforvallarta.com or at the Sea Monkey from 9:00am on tour days.

The cost is $600 pesos and all proceeds are used to support local charities in Puerto Vallarta.

You’re Invited

By John Warren

River Café – Opening Brunch

T

he International Friendship Club (IFC) is pleased to announce the start of another fabulous season helping local Mexican residents with their health and education and providing a place where Canadian and American ex-pats and visitors can meet old and new friends.

IFC has been active in PV for over 30 years. We operate our fabulous Home Tours every year and take thousands of visitors to extraordinary homes twice a week. The money that we charge for this tourist attraction is used to help support two dozen charities within Puerto Vallarta including our cleft palate program, the city’s main library, a couple of orphanages and a day-home for severely disabled kids.

IFC has just one employee and the rest of the operations are run by volunteers. We like to think we are good people, doing good work for

good causes.

If you are a member of IFC or someone who would like to know more about us you’re invited join us for our first event of the season.

The Opening Brunch will be held under the trees, beside the river at the very popular River Café. It will be held on Sunday 13th November at 10:00am and you are guaranteed that the buffet of Mexican and North American dishes will be mouth-watering. We will also be holding a

4th Annual Taste of Nuevo Vallarta & 16th Annual Chili Cook-off

O

n Saturday December 3, from 4-7PM, the Marina Nuevo Vallarta malecon will be the location of the 4th year of this great event. Last year, over 500 people attended to taste the wonderful sample dishes provided by the participating restaurants and

also tasting fantastic chili made by professional and non-professional contributors.

Attendees may purchase sample tickets for $30 pesos. Each ticket will allow a “sample” of chili or any of the other type of food offered.

Attendees may also use tickets to purchase bottled water, soda, beer, wine and Margaritas. Music will be provided.

All net proceeds will go to charity, evenly split between the International Friendship Club’s “Cleft Palate Program” and the

Navy League’s Toys for Tots.

Parking will be available at Marina Nuevo Vallarta and free water taxis will be available from the Vallarta Yacht Club and Paradise Village. Exhibitors are encouraged to sign up now. Last year we had over 40 booths, we hope to have

more this year. This is one of the first opportunities of the season to expose your restaurant to hundreds of tourists and local residents.

Any questions can be directed to Rudy Trejo, Manager Vallarta Yacht Club at 322-297-2222 (office@ vallartayachtclub.org).

Old Town Farmers Marke

The OTFM-TC Opens T

By Erin Staley

Swimwear and beachwear made ​​to order!

Teresa Moreno Fb: TYBikinisYMas

Tel. 322-137-04-77 ty-bikinis-y-mas@hotmail.com Federalismo #1383 Colonia Lomas del Coapinole Pitillal, Jal

I

f you’re looking for family fun this weekend, be sure to join us for the opening of our 8th season this Saturday, Nov. 5th, from 9:30 to 2! Our 85+ “make it, bake it, grow it” vendors will share everything from farm-fresh produce, artisan foods, and baked goods to natural body products, greeting cards, and traditional Mexican handcrafts. We will even have live music, American-certified chiropractic adjustments, and the surrounding beauty of the Banderas Bay and downtown Vallarta!

OTFM-TC Favourites Discover your new and existing market favourites: • Handcrafted clothing for all ages • Baked goods • Homemade dips, dressings, salsas and moles • Custom made bikinis and resort wear • Handcrafted jewellery, sandals and accessories • Agua frescas (flavoured waters) • Freshly cut tropical flowers • Traditional British fruit and meat pies • Prehispanic instruments, Huichol art and traditionally woven items • Fresh cheeses • Pickles • Organic coffee • Chocolate • Farm fresh produce • Artisan breads • Greek yoghurt • Nut butters • Eye-catching décor Then check out the new products we’ve added this season: • Avocados, citrus fruits, peppers & macadamia nuts • Mens clothing • Fresh local fish and shrimp • Infused olive oils • Fresh tortillas • Leather purses and canvas bags Market Expansion

Get Involved!

Interested in becoming a new vendor or volunteer?

Stop by the information booth to complete an application.

You’re Invited!

We’re open 9:30-2 every Saturday, from November 5 to April 29, 2017. We’re located at Lazaro Cardenas Park in Vallarta’s Emiliano Zapata neighbourhood. For only 14 pesos an hour, you can park in the parkade directly beneath the park. Public buses and taxis also come this way with a Pino Suarez Street drop off.

For your shopping convenience, we’ve relocated some of the vendors from the “Page In The Sun” side to the east end of the market along calle Pino Suarez. Look for the posted signs to direct you to this expanded shopping area.

Food-Fabulous Our food court areas are brimming with on-site dishes and beverages to “wow” your taste buds.

You’ll find some of your favorites from last year (Thai, Mexican, coffee, agua frescas, sausage in a bun), as well as four additions (a full breakfast and waffle menu, paella, and pizzas.

The food court areas are located near the main stage on the ocean end and under the upper shaded area east of the kiosk.

The “Sweet Stuff” Satisfy your sweet tooth with these popular goodies: • Sticky buns • Sweet breads • Artisan chocolates • Candied nuts • Peanut brittle • Cakes • Cookies Live Music Music lovers will be thrilled to know that we now have two music venues: a main stage for larger groups

et - Tianguis Cultural

Find us at Parque Lázaro Cárdenas Romantic Zone Saturdays 9:30 - 2:00 pm

This Saturday!

and the Pino Suarez stage for solo/duo acts. Both will feature some of the most exciting entertainers from Puerto Vallarta.

Cooking Demos Beginning in December, be sure to join us in our new chef demo area. Chefs from neighborhood restaurants will be whipping up some tasty dishes using ingredients found right here at the OTFM-TC. Stay posted for starting dates and chef bios.

Meet the Market The OTFM-TC is a North American style market that celebrates the tradition and culture of Mexico’s outdoor tianguis markets. It is also a registered nonprofit/association civil organization that focuses on nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit of Puerto Vallartans. All OTFM-TC products are either locally grown or handmade within 75 kilometres of the city.

For the latest in market news (both in English and Spanish), visit oldtownfm.com and “like” us on Facebook (Old.Town.Farmers.Market.PV).

Tel. 224-6670 Cel: 322-116-9908

Artisan Bakery Authentic contemporary jewelry

Heriberto Saucedo Pérez Artista Diseñador Cel. 322.190 56 32 Fb: Heriko Joyeria herikojoyeria@hotmail.com Puerto Vallarta, Mexico …where bread is an art.

Na tu rally leave ne d sou rd ou g h s pe cialt y b r ead s ba ke d in ou r ow n ma so nry ov e n.

ChelowVallarta

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charity

Nov 3rd - 9, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Non - Profit and Charitable Organizations For visitors to Puerto Vallarta who wish to support the less privileged in our paradise, this is a list of some of the many organizations that could benefit from such kind gestures. If you would like your organization recognized here, please email details to editor@vallartatribune.com.

Acción En La Cruz aid residents of La Cruz de Huanacaxtle by providing provisions in exchange for community services performed.landon5120.wix. com/accionenlacruz Alcoholics Anonymous: In English Puerto Vallarta Alanon Club - Basilio Badillo 329 recoverpv.com Amazing Grace Missions Assisting families in Magisterio & Progreso with necessities and job training and English. slw2014nv@gmail.com American Legion Post 14: raises resources and manpower to improve facilities needing building maintenance americanlegion14.org Amigos del Magisterio - Food delivered directly to workers at the PV dump, their families and schools in Magisterio and Volcanes. Also, food to New Beginnings, Pasitos de Luz, and Caritas. 100% of donations to the people, no overhead.amigosdelmagisterio.com lysephilrioux@hotmail.com Asilo San Juan Diego Home for the Elderly Contact: Lupita Sanchez Covarrubias 222-1257 or malupita88@hotmail.com or mexonline.com\asilosanjuandiego.htm Asociación Down - Assistance to persons with Down’s Syndrome – Contact: Ana Eisenring at 224-9577.

Banderas Bay Women’s Shelter - Safe shelter for women & children victims of domestic violence. compassionforthefamily.org Becas Vallarta, A.C. – Provides scholarships to high school and university students. Tax-deductible in Mexico and USA. Polly Vicars at (322) 223-1371 or Buri Gray at (322) 221-5285.

CANICA - Centre for Children with Cancer. Provides aid for treatment and services including transportation to GDL. Contact Director, Evelia Basañes 322-123-5688.

Casa Hogar - A shelter for orphaned, abandoned, disadvantaged or vulnerable children. Luz Aurora Arredondo at 221 1908, casahogar_maximocornejo@hotmail.com Centro Comunitario SETAC-GLBT – Services the GLBT community, including treatment and referrals, education, English classes, HIV testing and counseling. Paco Arjona 224-1974 Clinica de Rehabilitación Santa Barbara - Rehabilitation of the handicapped.

Contact: Laura Lopez Portillo Rodriguez at 224-2754.

COLINA Spay and Neuter Clinic - Free and by-donation sterilization clinic in Old Town. Only

open Saturdays, Contact: cez@rogers.com or 322-104-6609 CompassionNet Impact – Transforming the lives of people living in chronic poverty. Job creation, education, emergency & more. Tax-deductible. Cell: (322) 133-7263 or ric@4compassion.org Corazon de Nina A safe, loving, home-environment for 40+ children and youth rescued from high-risk situations. Donations & volunteers always welcome!

Totally self-funded. www.fundacioncorazon.mx Cruz Roja (Red Cross) - Handles hospital and emergency service in Vallarta. It is the only facility that is authorized to offer assistance to injured people on the street. Contact: 222-1533, 222-4973 Desayunos para los Niños de Vallarta A.C. Feeding programs, education programs, day care centers for single mothers. 2234311 or 22225 72 Discapacitados de Vallarta, A.C. (DIVAC) association of handicapped individuals dedicated to helping one another. Ivan Applegate at 221-5153.

Ecology and Conservation of Whales, AC. National Coordination Network for the Assistance of Entangled Whales. Biol. Astrid Frisch Jordán, Arce #541. Col. La Primavera Puerto Vallarta, Jal. 48325, Mexico, Tel/Fax: (322) 29 37 851 fibbcatalogo@yahoo.com Families At The Dump: Supporting families living in the landfill or garbage dump thru education and sustainable opportunities. familiesatthedump.org Fundacion Punta de Mita LDG. Ana Lilia Medina Varas de Valdés. ana@fundacionpuntademita.org Tel. (329) 291 5053 Friends of PV Animals Volunteers working to enhance the lives of shelter animals. For info and

donations visit friendsofpvanimals.com Grupo Ecológico de Puerto Vallarta: Arq. Luz del Carmen Pérez A cayro_13@hotmail.com grupoecologico.com Horizonte de Paz: Welcoming shelter for men of all ages who are troubled w/alcohol & drug addiction.

In great need of cash or material resources Contact MAYNOR Tel 281 0644 horizontedepaz@live.com International Friendship Club - Provides medical, educational and social services to those in need in Puerto Vallarta. www.ifcvallarta.com La Brigada de la Basura: A weekly meeting of neighborhood children to clean Vallarta Streets.

Contact Que?Pasa 223-4006 Mexico Ministries & Mission, Inc. raises funds to the poor in Vallarta. Contact Fr. Jack+ 044 322 229-1129 christchurchbythesea.org Navy League - assists in the transportation of donated medical supplies from the U.S., organizes work groups to paint and repair facilities New Life Mexico - Challenging Child Poverty with health and education programs. Philippa Vernon pvp@newlifemexico.com Paraíso Felino AC Refuge and Adoption Centre for cats and kittens in the Bay of Banderas. Luis Donaldo Cel. (322) 120-4092 Pasitos de Luz - substitute home for low income children with any type of handicap, offers rehabilitation services and more. 299-4146. pasitosdeluz.org PEACEAnimals - Free mobile spay/neuter clinic operating 48 weeks a year, primarily in Puerto Vallarta. Tax-deductible. peaceanimals.org

entertainment

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Nov 3rd - 9, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Sophia Loren - the Italian Marylin Monroe

By Fred Jacobs

S

ophia Loren was born on September 20, 1934 in Rome Italy. Her family hails from royal lineage and Sophia actually has the right to call herself Marchesa di Licata Scicolone Murillo. During the second Word War, Sophia and her younger sister lived with their grandmother near Naples. During one allied bombing of a nearby munitions factory, Sophia was running to a bomb shelter and was injured on the chin by shrapnel.

When Sophia was just 14, she entered a beauty pageants, and even made it to Miss Italia 1950.

While she didn’t win, she did make it to the finals! After her impressive showing in Miss Italy, Sophia enrolled in acting classes. By the age of 15, she was already getting small parts in Italian movies!

Sophia’s breakout year was 1954 in “The Gold of Naples” (1954) and “Too Bad She's Bad”.

“La Bella Mugnaia” (1955) became the first of many films in which Sophia co-starred with Marcello Mastroianni. Over the next three years, appeared in many films, including “Scandal in Sorrento”, “Lucky to Be a Woman”, “Boy on a Dolphin”, with Alan Ladd, “Legend of the Lost” opposite John Wayne and “The Pride and the Passion” costarring with Cary Grant and Frank Sinatra.

After costarring with Cary Grant, he fell deeply in love with Sophia. She was later quoted in saying theirs was a “doomed” love affair. Cary Grant even proposed marriage to Sophia, even though he was married at the time to actress Betsy Drake.

In the end, Loren married the man she felt knew and understood her best, Italian director Carlo Ponti.

She first met Carlo when she was fifteen. Carlo divorced his first wife and married Sophia in 1957, but Catholic Italy refused to recognize their marriage and it was annulled by the church in 1962. Carlo and Sophia then became French citizens, and the couple re-married in 1966.

By 1958, Sophia had mesmerized American movie goers with her exotic beauty and heavy accent. She signed an impressive contract with Paramount and sealed her foothold in the US. In 1961, she starred in “Two Women”, a dark, gritty story of a mother who is trying to protect her 12-year-old

daughter in war-torn Italy. The role would earn Sophia an Oscar for Best Actress.

During the 1960s, Sophia was one of the most popular actresses in the world. She continued to make films in the United States and Europe, starring with prominent leading men. In 1964, her career reached its peak when she earned $1 million for her role in “The Fall of the Roman Empire” costarring Sir Alec Guinness, Omar Sharif and Christopher Plumber. The role would also ear Sophia another Oscar nomination.

During the 1970’s and 1980’s Sophia appeared less on US movie screens, choosing to dedicate more time in the raising of her sons.

She did the occasional US film in the time, but mainly appeared in Italian movies. She also was the first female celebrity to launch her own perfume “Sophia”. But all was not rosy in the 1980’s for Sophia. In 1982, while in Italy, Sophia made headlines after serving an 18-day prison sentence on tax evasion charges. In 2013, the supreme court of Italy cleared her of the charges.

In 1991, Sophia received the

Academy Honorary Award for her contributions to world cinema and was declared "one of the world cinema's treasures". In 1995, she also received the Golden Globe Cecil B. DeMille Award.

Since 2006, Sophia’s primary home has been in Geneva, Switzerland, but she also still owns homes in Naples and Rome. She and her Carlo remained together until his death in 2007. When asked

in a November 2009 interview if she were ever likely to marry again, Sophia replied "No, never again. It would be impossible to love anyone else.” Today Sophia enjoys her later years with family and friends.

Sophia Loren made a cultural impact never quite seen before by

an Italian actress. She became her country’s cinematic patron saint, and exported her powerful beauty to the world.

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

VALLARTA SHOPPI

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

Located across from McDonald’s

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

Fine Art and Furniture

MEXICO

apero riche

for shows & times visit

www.BTPV.org

THURSDAY-SUNDAY 5-7PM

This chic European custom arrives beachside Thursday, September 22 at 5 pm. Enjoy late afternoon sophisticated cocktails and help yourself to complimentary snacks at the bar. From 5 to 7 pm every Thursday to Sunday, nibble on delicious bites that will change daily. After work, after shopping, after a long day at the beach, indulge yourself in Sapphire Ocean Club’s casual, urbane atmosphere. www.sapphire.mx Malecon 1 Playa Los Muertos

“Remodeling and Renovations”

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

...come play with us!

Tickets available -Vallarta Tickets -Theatre Box Office

287 Basilio Badillo in Old Town Box Office Phone: 044-322-728-6878

ING AND SERVICES

G

loria Sue is back from Los Angeles and hit the ground running - into her kitchen prepping matzoh ball soup and making pasta for her salad (loaded with fresh parmesan and chunks of crispy bacon). And cool summer cucumber salads. You can pre-order from Gloria Sue on Facebook – just give her a two-day heads up and you can pick up your food Saturday.

All of us at Three Hens bid a misty farewell to Pete’s bagels and Mark Hughes’ amazing pies and quiches.

We hope they will come back after their huge open air Farmer’s Market in Parque Lazaro Cardenas closes before next summer’s rains. In the meantime, you can still do our Market until one and scoot down the street and shop there until 2 pm.

Good luck, guys!

Many people have stopped by inquiring about Pat Wagner. Her surgery was a

www.vallartatribune.com

Three Hens & a Rooster Market News

great success and we expect her back at Market November 19th. In the meanwhile, Marcia is opening Pat’s Boutique every

week, so stop by for some fun wine bags and/or throw pillows and plus-size clothing for women.

Grandmother/Market Founder/Head Hen, Jeanine Frank, is creating amazing food nearly every week: her latest is a mixture of potato chips, salted pretzels, popcorn and nuts: mixed then tossed in melted chocolate…

Bill Kelly has fantastic new pillows in his boutique. Bill hunts for fabrics from all over the world, has them shipped here and made into cushions, aprons and 100% cotton cooling ties. When you walk in the front door, look to your right, find the explosion of color and there will be Mr Bill.

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

Marsol Friday Market by the Pier

A

lan has been selling peanut brittle for decades. It’s a long, delightful, tangled-up story that began when Alan was four. He is now producing peanut brittle in Vallarta using the same recipe that is now over a century old with the bonus of using Mexican peanuts that are far tastier than those grown in Texas and Louisiana. This is melt-in-yourmouth peanut brittle, a tawny-coloured, non-jaw-breaking delicious snack. Do stop by for free samples and take home either a half or full pound bag.

The Marsol Friday Market has doubled in size each week in October and November 4th marks the start of our third winter season. Gabriel Reyes will be singing and playing guitar, the atmosphere festive, food to eat at Market and plenty to take home for later: burgers, pickles, fine Italian bread and tiramisu, nuts and dried fruit. We will be at full capacity before the end of November and are including a gift-wrapping service for all the busy ex-pats that are challenged by rolls and rolls of ribbons, bows and paper

around Christmas time!

Plan to stop by and say hello to vendors you have known for years and meet our new ones.

The Marsol Friday Market by the Pier is open from 9:30 to 1:30 pm.

MARSOL FRIDAY MARKET

BY THE PIER EVERY FRIDAY CADA VIERNES ART ARTE JEWELRY JOYERÍA CRAFTS ARTESANÍA CLOTHING ROPA PASTRY PASTELES HOME DECOR MUEBLES HERBALIST HERBALISTA FOOD COMIDA MUSIC MÚSICA

HOTEL MARSOL

103 FRANCISCA RODRIGUEZ OLAS ALTAS

INTERNATIONAL FRIENDSHIP CLUB

Home Tours start soon

Thousands of people have enjoyed IFC Home Tours over the last 30 years.

Rentals, Sales, Management

Our knowledgeable docents will take you on an air-conditioned bus to 4 spectacular homes around PV. Rated as “Excellent” on Trip Advisor.

All proceeds are used to fund free medical services for local children and educational charitable work.

Please join us!

www.ifcvallarta.com 322-222-5466

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games

CROSSWORD SOLVE!

Not In Town?

Read the Vallarta Tribune each week online at VallartaTribune.com FB/vtatribune

Nov 3rd - 9, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com