Issue 1023, Nov 10 - 16, 2016

Catch us online @ vallartatribune.com

My Life in Vallarta

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anticipation

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Nov 10 - 16, 2016 Year 19 Free Issue 1023

Riviera Nayarit events

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Charity IFC & HOME TOURS

FR EE

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Courtesy of Old Town Farmers Market

Meet the OTFM-TC’s New Vendors

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 Information office ventastribuna7@yahoo.com Designer Cynthia E. Andrade G. cysandra@gmail.com cisandra@vallartatribune.com

Nov 10 - 16, 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

Letters to the Editor

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editor@vallartatribune.com

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Nov 10 - 16, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

his weekend is the 3rd annual Purr Project Garage Sale. I was to the first one and there were so many goodies.

I bought a couple lamps and even a telescope – which looks cool, though I have yet to use it. If you have a few holes in your house looking to be filled with new treasures – head to Marina Vallarta on Saturday and Sunday – get there early and bring cash. The kitties will thank you. More details on page 23.

Despite ‘selling it all’ and moving here I seem genetically predisposed to collecting and gathering. It was in my previous life I would stop at the mall on the way home from work to get a little retail therapy – of course I needed new throw pillows, who doesn’t. Now the selection is more limited, more expensive and not always of great quality so the things I collect tend to be smaller but more rewarding; glass beads, hand made papers, tin hearts, clay tiles, stray animals. So many wonderful artisan items to start collecting. The amate paper art, the different styles of weavings, ceramics in all sizes, shapes and colours delicate beadwork and embroideries are just a few of the items I tend to gravitate to. If you’re looking for high-quality pieces of art and handicrafts consider stopping at one of the many farmer's markets that are opening for the season around the Bay. The Thursday Evening Market in Marina has dozens of vendors selling art, jewellery and speciality

food. The Friday Market in Sayulita is filled with wonderful organics and many artisans that don’t travel to the other markets. The Friday Marcel Market by the Pier in Old Town is home to many local artisans. Saturday is the Old Town Farmer's Market. This is one of the most popular and vibrant of the local markets. About 100 vendors sell a wide range of speciality food, artisan crafts, jewellery, and healthy products. All are 100% made locally.

Also on Saturday is the Three Hens and a Rooster Market with many vendors from the old Paradise Community Center. Sunday we have the La Cruz market along the Marina. This is a great market for food and the location can’t be beat!

Do a little shopping, pick up some fresh seafood and have a drink at Oso’s or the new La Palapa restaurant. And perhaps the best-kept secret is the market on Tuesday’s in Nuevo Vallarta. Located behind the Casino in the parking lot there are over 100 vendors, many unique to this market offering a huge array of items including organic coffee,

clothing, artisan products, organics, jewellery and much more. Here there is plenty of space to shop; it isn’t as crowded as the others but still offers all your favourites.

On page 23 of the Tribune we have a list of all the farmer's markets from Vallarta to La Peñita – if you have the chance, visit them all, they are all unique.

Please remember, the Vallarta Tribune is supported 100% by our advertisers and contributors.

Please support them so we can continue to bring you this weekly newspaper and event guide. This week we welcome back Jewellery artist June Rosen, Galeria Dante and Iguana Restaurant and Bar. New advertiser Vallarta 101 is a fledgeling tour company that offers insiders look at Puerto Vallarta while only asking you pay what you like at the end of the tour. Look for the ad on the map.

Thank you for reading us this. If you have comments or questions, I am always happy to help.

Safe travels, Madeline

’ve owned and lived off and on in Vallarta since the late 90’s and have had my share of bad investments and experiences here but there is broad knowledge among locals that really doesn’t get shared to any extent with tourists who fall victim to our beautiful city.

Every friend I’ve ever had come to Vallarta dreams of coming back and some have even quit their jobs and moved here. Recently I had a dear friend whom is a nurse come with her husband for a week. They become interested in the possibility of a timeshare while they were here and landed at a large timeshare selling hotel in the peaks of Cochas Chinas. Knowing they had two timeshares already, they told the sales staff that they would have to sell their two existing timeshares before they could buy. It seemed to be no problem because the hotel also offered a broker service that would sell their timeshare and that is what they opted to do.

Over the following several months they repeatedly sent wire transfers to guarantee the sale of their existing timeshares including an initiation fee to start the process, Iva taxes for the sale, and closing costs- 3 separate wires totaling $10,000 US. The last email from the broker said they would receive their sales check of $36,000 within the week. Its now months later and they never received the check and the broker no longer answers their emails or phonecalls. They are left with little recourse but to hire a criminal attorney. When you come from a country where you typically are protected by a written contract you don’t understand the rules of your adopted country- for example, in Mexico the contract needs to be written in Spanish to be legal. I’m not sure hiring a lawyer to oversee the sale would even protect you in the long run. Another course of action is to appeal to the local consumer protection action agency, Profeco.

You must submit the following

information: – A brief letter (1 page maximum, preferably, typed) stating the following: Supplier’s name, address, phone, e-mail or other contact information, description of the facts that explain the reason for your complaint, date of purchase, cost of the product or service, amount you are claiming, your name and signature.

– Copy of your ID (Passport or Driver´s License) – Copy of your contract or payment invoice – Copy of your bills, credit card slips or receipts as evidence of your payments – Copy of all the documents available to support the complaint.

For further information you can contact Profeco at the following numbers: office is 011-52-55-52111723, fax is 011-52-55-52112052, or E-mail: extranjeros@profeco.gob.mx - Tim Hainds

Ed. Note: Thanks Tim. What you share here about Profeco is very relevant for most consumer issues in Mexico, including scams such as your friends encountered. No legitimate timeshare company changes fees to ‘sell’ your existing timeshare. It’s a shame because there are many wonderful, honest timeshare companies in Puerto Vallarta that offer excellent product and it’s issues like this that put a black mark on the industry, its 1000’s of employees and the city itself.

Letter to the Editor I am very happy to be receiving the Vallarta Tribune once again.

It won’t be long now until I return to Mexico and I look forward to every issue while in Mexico as well as when I am home.

Your paper keeps me well informed of everything happening in the area.

My first choice of local news!!

- Sheila Reglin

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 distri-

bution 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.

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Nov 10 - 16, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Monarch butterflies are arriving ‘on time’ Millions are en route, according to several thousand volunteer butterfly spotters

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Hilton Puerto Vallarta to Expand

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rupo Hotelero Santa Fe, S.A.B. de C.V. announced today the purchase of the Krystal Puerto Vallarta Hotel and adjacent land. The properties consisting of 54 units for hotel-only purposes, as well as an undeveloped land lot of 1,043 square meters, and 162 hotel suites, adjacent to the Hilton Puerto Vallarta hotel.

The transaction represented an investment of US$ 12.0 million.

The anticipated opening date of the expansion project is the end of 2017.

The Company expects to renovate the existing 162 suites and develop 30 additional suites for a total of 192 luxury suites, in addition to banquet rooms, restaurants, bars and complementary services, under the Hilton brand.

With this expansion, the Hilton Puerto Vallarta hotel would increase the number of rooms and luxury suites from 259 to 451, under the all-inclusive Grand Tourism category.

According to a recent market

study for the Company by Grupo World Real Estate, from January to July 2016 traveler demand to Puerto Vallarta increased 17% and 12% in the domestic and international markets, respectively, compared to the same period in 2015.

Grupo Hotelero Santa Fe is one of the leading companies in the Mexican hotel industry, with Mexican DNA, and is focused on acquiring, converting, developing

and operating its own hotels and third party-owned hotels.

The Company has over 2600 employees in Mexico, is part of the ranking Super Empresas Expansión 2015 and its shares are listed on the Mexican Stock Exchange (BMV: HOTEL). Furthermore, it has been awarded as a Socially Responsible Company (“ESR” or “Empresa Socialmente Responsible”).

he first monarch butterflies have arrived at their wintering grounds in the forest sanctuaries of the states of Mexico and Michoacán, the National Protected Areas Commission (Conanp) reported on the weekend.

While the first group arrived “in time” on November 1, 10,000 volunteer observers spread across 18 states including Coahuila, Nuevo León, Tamaulipas, Querétaro and Guanajuato have been reporting that millions of the migrating insects have returned to overnight stops identified last season.

“During this last five days we’ve received reports of large groups of butterflies. The first ones arrived on time to their sanctuaries . . . and we expect that the rest of the traveling groups will arrive within the next three weeks,” Gloria Tavera Alonso told the newspaper Milenio on Saturday.

The specialist explained that several cold fronts in the Gulf of Mexico may have delayed a few days’ delay for a some of these groups “but they have taken to the skies and thousands and thousands have been seen fluttering through Cuatro Ciénegas, Coahuila; the Monterrey hills, in Nuevo León; in Laguna Madre and the El Cielo biosphere reserve in Tamaulipas.”

Farther south, groups of monarchs seem to be converging as “even larger groups have been spotted in several areas in the state of Guanajuato: Celaya, Salamanca and Xichú, in the Sierra Gorda.”

This year is the second occasion on which Conanp has been aided by volunteer butterfly spotters. During the fall of 2015, volunteers located and identified for

the first time the preferred places for the insects to spend the night and feed during their trip south.

Some of those places were used by the migratory animals to protect themselves during the onslaught of Hurricane Patricia.

Not only do the monarchs have favorite resting areas, there are even trees they like better than others, said Tavera. For this reason, these zones have been strictly protected from logging activities. Volunteers have also helped identify which roads intersect the butterflies’ migratory route. “Now we have signs informing motorists in those places,” said Tavera.

Flowers the insects feed on have also been identified, and that information is being used to promote the creation of pollinating gardens “that will allow them to recharge their energy.”

Conanp has yet to determine on what date the sanctuaries will open their doors to the public as the butterflies are given time to settle so as to minimize the impact of the presence of humans.

Tavera estimated that by the 20th of November the first visitors will get the chance to see them.

Given that a winter storm hit the State of México and Michoacán forests earlier this year when the monarchs were leaving the country, fewer butterflies are expected this year than last.

It has been calculated that 140 million monarchs arrived on Mexican soil last season, covering over four hectares of forest.

In the 2014-2015 season that figure was 255% lower: the insects barely covered one hectare.

Tavera expects that this season’s numbers will be just over half of last season’s.

Original: mexiconewsdaily.com

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Nov 10 - 16, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Cyclists get ready to ride to generate awareness on the road

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n initiative of the citizens of Bahía de Banderas and Puerto Vallarta seeks to encourage awareness and respect among all who transit the roadways.

The “Colectivo Vallarta y Bahía por 1 metros 50”, made up of all the cycling groups in the bay area, has begun a permanent campaign to generate road awareness in the region. It will be launched with a massive ride programmed for Sunday, November 13, 2016.

The community ride will begin at 8 a.m. at the Plaza Lago Real in Nuevo Vallarta and will head out on Federal Highway 200 all the way to Los Arcos del Malecón in Puerto Vallarta, with a pit stop at the whales in Marina Vallarta at approximately 9:20 a.m.

The invitation is open to anyone who enjoys riding their bicycles and agrees with the idea that all users of the roadways deserve to go about their business safely and respectfully.

This social movement is mostly concerned with keeping the community informed and thus

making and keeping the roads in Bahía de Banderas and Puerto Vallarta safe for local and visiting cyclists.

The campaign prioritizes awareness in all the sectors, especially with automobile drivers and those who drive public transportation vehicles so they understand the importance of maintaining a minimum distance of 1 meter and 50 centimeters from a cyclist when passing them on the roadways.

The campaign also includes other activities such as workshops in elementary schools, high schools and universities, communicating with truckers and creating proposals to improve the statutes included in the Traffic Laws.

The 1.5m-minimum between a car and a cyclist is already part of the Mobility and Transport Act of the State of Jalisco and the Transit and Transportation Law of the State of Nayarit.

For updates please visit: h t t p s : / / w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / groups/1602465176716715/?fref=ts

Marc Galipeau Opens at Galleria Dante November 18, 2016 Cocktails 6 to 10 pm Marc Galipeau is a Quebec painter born on September 17, 1967 in the Monteregie region.

Fascinated by the possibility to transpose life onto paper, he starts expressing himself artistically at a young age trying to emulate his older brother who was already mastering drawing as a child. He studied to be a special education teacher, a profession he would practice until the age of 28, when he would finally make the jump to the uncertain world of professional art. He considers himself an artist by birth, self-taught, he gathered some experience along side professional artists and spent the next decade working and exhibiting throughout Quebec and France.

Thanks to his keen sense of self promotion and his undeniable talent, Marc soon found himself a place in art galleries in Montreal, Quebec city and the Eastern Townships.

Through his travels and connections, he built himself a network

of contacts that allowed him to start showing his work throughout Canada, the United States and parts of Europe. Largely influenced by artists such as Claude Théberge, Paul Tex Lecor and Claude Bonneau,

among others, his works reflects an idyllic vision of everyday life that is bathed in happiness, light and color.

Marc’s work is instantly recognizable by the soft, dreamlike atmospheres he is able to weave into his acrylic paintings.

His characters, often appearing as if out of a dream, are done in true colors rendered in shimmering tones. His style could be said to have a folk art quality but the depth and the work that goes into its execution put him in a style all his own.

A serious and headstrong artist, Marc Galipeau’s career is on a rising curve and shows no sign of slowing down its rise. This is his third season at Galleria Dante! Come meet Marc at Galleria Dante on Basilio Badillo 269.

Or check out our website> www.galleriadante.com

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news

Nov 10 - 16, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

New Pilot Trash Program for Downtown

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he Oficina de Proyectos Culturales (OPC) along with the Asociación de Vecinos Colonia Centro A.C., the Comité Vecinal de la Colonia Centro Vallarta, Aseo Público, and Tránsito began a pilot trash program for the downtown area with the intention of finding a solution to the problem that affects all us.

The new program began on Thursday, October 20th, when trash cans were placed at the corner of Aldama and Hidalgo on a steel platform that makes it much easier for the collection of trash by the truck, and also allows pedestrians use of the sidewalks.

The pilot program is based on the successful trash campaign on the corner of Olas Altas and Pilitas.

One year ago the trash was piled up on the corner located in a tourist area where people were leaving trash at all hours of the day and not respecting the hours posted by the city; now with the help of the Amapas Neighborhood Association there is a clean and dignified trash area and the majority of the people in the neighborhood are respecting the trash hours as well as depositing aluminum cans in a recycling container.

Following a neighborhood meeting of residents of Aldama street, the following trash rules were proposed in order to keep the street clean and the garbage organized and easier for pick up.

Aluminum cans should be separated and placed in the basket supplied for recycling. All garbage should be tied up properly and deposited in the blue bins. Cardboard boxes should be broken down and left alongside the bins.

Times to deposit trash are restricted to late evening or early morning.

The garbage truck will pass by at 7:30am. Those found leaving garbage at other times can be fined.

IMPORTANT NOTE Construction Material If residents find themselves with construction materials or large objects that the trash truck will not haul away please call Aseo Publico at (322) 178 6921 Plant Material If you need a special pick-up after trimming a tree or have excessive plant material, please call Parques y Jardines at (322) 224 0676.

Fines and Complaints The City has now instituted fines for anybody throwing trash outside of posted hours. To make a report call (322) 224-9121.

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Nov 10 - 16, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

My Life In Vallarta

By Lois Ellison

From Here Marcia Blondin

loell87@yahoo.com

marciavallarta@gmail.com

Anticipation

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his year, for the first time in a long time, we decided to spend our summer in Oregon. We don’t have roots there but our son and his family recently made it their home. Besides, the long hot summers just aren’t that much fun anymore.

As with many things in Mexico, getting ready to leave took more time and effort than expected. We started in January, cancelling one bank account (long story) and buying a dehumidifier. We weren’t going to need it for four more months but you never know how long things will last on the Costco shelves. It turned out to be a good decision as the next time we returned, there were no humidifiers to be found.

Next we had to plan ahead to pay all the bills that would come due in our absence and figure out how to get money to our faithful housekeeper who would be holding down the fort.

Finally it was time to depart and we braced for the sticker shock we knew was awaiting our arrival. It didn’t take long. While changing planes at the San Francisco airport our simple lunch with tip came to $65!

As the weeks passed, we more or less adjusted to the higher prices. Every time we paid three dollars for two avocados I simply gritted my teeth and imagined getting a whole bag for ten pesos in Vallarta. But I don’t think I could ever get used to the wild temperature swings, sometimes as much as thirty-five degrees Fahrenheit at a time. It’s not that much fun changing clothes three times a day.

So now as we pack up, I am filled with anticipation about what awaits us upon our return.

Besides the obvious things like very affordable, fantastic restaurants and fresh produce that is almost free, there are so

many things I miss when we’re away from Mexico: starting every morning greeting our amigos as we walk along the Malecon; watching the waves break and hoping for a whale or dolphin sighting, or maybe even a turtle burying her eggs; breakfast on the terrace with birds serenading us; the sound of church bells drifting over town; the warmth of the sun and the soft touch of a gentle breeze; children’s laughter rising up from the cobblestone streets; sunsets and sunrises that take your breath away; and so much more.

Of course there is some trepidation involved in returning. There was a time when you could return to Vallarta after an absence of several weeks or even months and, although there had been some changes, they were not always very obvious. Maybe a sidewalk had been widened or a long unfinished project had finally been completed.

Now, construction proceeds at a frenzied pace, with old treasured buildings giving way to modern structures so non-descript that they could be almost anywhere. If this is your first trip here, you probably won’t notice this and will be swept away by the charm that remains.

Other changes will be evident too. New restaurants will have opened. Old favorites may be gone. Some friends will return; others will not. Maybe this will be the year that we get new buses and the City finally fixes the trash problem.

It’s been a great summer but now we are eagerly anticipating returning to our beloved Puerto Vallarta. My waking thoughts often drift to the things that await us and my dreams seem like windows to a future just on the horizon. When I step off that plane, I’ll pick up a copy of the Vallarta Tribune and exit the terminal. Then I’ll immerse myself in the sights, sounds and smells that are Vallarta and head for home.

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he skulls are still generating revenue for the upcoming early-in-the-New-Year, Infant Literacy Program at Los Mangos Library. The auction starts now: www.myminiauction.com/karmacharityauction Kudos to Bill Brooks for a great idea five weeks ago; to all the artists who worked hard creating such a mix of style, colour and pizzazz for their particular calaveras.

To all the people who paid good money to ensure their ‘votes’ were placed properly, this note/invite from Casa Karma owner Georgia Darehshori: “On Monday, the 14th, we are going to have an appreciation celebration event for all the participants... creators, voters, people who bought decorated skulls. We shall serve wine and light appetizers; if anyone wants anything else, there will be a cash bar. People can pay for and pick up their auction items then. I am hoping that people from the library will speak about where the funds are going and we shall also present the money to the library then. The festivities will start around 6 pm before sunset, but the

announcements won’t happen until 7pm.”

See everyone there!

My sister, Patrice, is here from Canada to help me celebrate my 65th birthday on the 9th at Langostino’s so we have been eating. And eating. (She will be charged by the airlines for extra baggage on her return flight!) We have grazed recently on fries and gravy, otherwise known as Poutine sin queso!, at Seasons P.V, more than once.

A huge bowl of French fries drowning in thick beef gravy made from scratch. Absolutely the best in Vallarta.

Teeny burger sliders at 116 Pulpito; great big burgers at Los Muertos Brewing; incredible seared tuna and a double cheeseburger at Sapphire Ocean Club.

We topped the week off at make-your-own Bloody Mary that happens at the Bar at Casa Karma every Sunday: gigantic glasses of juice, salted rim, spices and then added shrimp, bacon, asparagus, baby corn, hearts of palm, olives and so much more so from this overfed gourmand to you, that 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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local

QUE PASO AT UdG CUC

Nov 10 - 16, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Paradise and Parenting

Michael Nolan

Leza Warkentin

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

The Long Drive Home

104.3wakeupshow@gmail.com

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inema CUC is back! Beginning this week the University of Guadalajara campus here in the bay will show movies every Wednesday and Friday at 1 PM in the main auditorium. The Wednesday movies will all have a music concert theme.

They will range from The Rolling Stones and Robert Allen Zimmerman (AKA:Bob Dylan), to Andre Rieu, Fernando Delgadillo, and Avicii. On Fridays they will be showing fulllength movies from all over the world. This week’s movie is Super-Size Me, a 2004 film directed by Morgan Spurlock. All of the films are FREE and open to the public. Please go to the UdG web site for a full listing of future movies.

WWW.CUC.UDG.MX Also this week, The University in connection with Social Development Municipal Government of Puerto Vallarta will host a Fair of Indigenous Communities entitled “Mexico: A multicultural country.

The opening was held on Monday, November 7. The fair showcases food, crafts,

mommyinmexico.wordpress.com

dance, music, workshops, conference and holistic practices.

Various indigenous communities will join us such as Mixtec, Zapotec, Huichol, Triqui, Nahuatl, Mazahua, Papancla, Otomi, Purepecha, Tzotzil, Huasteca and May Sonora.

And the presentation of Ballet Xiutla, after the inauguration on Friday.

The fair is being held at the UdG/CUC campus, and starts every day at 12:00pm. It is FREE and is open to the public.

For more information visit www.CUC. UDG.MX or contact Mtra. Maria Guadalupe Gomez Basulto Tel: (322) 226-2263 Ext 66263.

And last but not least, on Wednesday November 16th Prof. Dr. Klaus Meyer-Minnemann who has a Doctorate in Romance Philology (Literary Sciences) from the University of Hamburg, Germany will be giving a lecture on the poetry of Ruben Dario and Octavio Paz. It will be presented by Nacho Cadena.

It will be held in main auditorium at 11am.

D

o you ever pick up your children from school and you ask them “How was your day?” and they say “fine”? And then you ask them, “So what did you do at school?” and they say “nothing” and their voice carries a warning that this blatantly unconstitutional interrogation will not be tolerated for much longer?

I was that kid, and I’m still that kid. I don’t want you to ask me about my day, and I don’t want to know about your day, either. Don’t worry, I WILL want to tell you how things went, and I WILL want to hear about how things went with you.

But not thirty seconds after finishing a day filled with activities like tying one kid’s shoes sixty-three times and telling people why we can’t climb OVER the bookshelves to get to the door to go to recess even though we could save ourselves so much time. Just imagine that day, and then ask yourself why some people need to debrief for a few minutes after it.

The other day I was driving home from school with my two children. It’s about a seven minute drive.

And there I was, inside my brain wondering if tomorrow I will post pictorial interpretations of the consequences of climbing over classroom furniture, when I realized that I was also having a conversation with my children.

Well, not exactly a conversation, really, more like a question and answer period. They were lobbing them at me at a pace that could only be described as unreasonably fast.

The Good Mom part of my brain appeared to be receiving the queries and trying to come up with decent answers so as to not to disturb the other part that was hibernating, since rousing it awake wouldn’t result in anything productive or friendly.

Unfortunately, Good Mom was absolutely tanking, and the children were starting to reject pat answers such as “Wow, you are going to have to Google that one today!”

I decided to make a mental list of all of these questions because not only do they provide a glimpse into the wide and deep range of my children’s thoughts, but a demonstra-

tion of Things I Deal With Every Day: Who invented beagles?

If your best friend had a zombie virus and he wanted to die and it was the apocalypse and he was going to die anyway, would you kill him?

What’s the biggest iceberg in the world called?

Who names their dog Sticky Buns, anyway?

Is it still cannibalism if it’s a matter of survival?

What did you say, mom?

Why/Why not?

But why/why not?

Remember when you were a tired mom of two toddlers and you were crying because there was just no way tomorrow could even happen if either one said “Why?” one more time?

And then your best friend/mom/husband/ person at the taxi stand was trying to make you feel better so they told you that it was a phase and that someday you would miss the fact that they relied on you for all the answers?

Psst. It was a lie. They HAD to tell you that because your mascara was running, your eyes were frightening them and they didn’t know how they were going to end the conversation otherwise.

Children don’t stop asking questions, and they will think you know all the answers until the exact moment when they think you are basically a brain stem. No in between as far as I can tell.

The introvert in me wants to retreat into a tiny, dark burrow in my mind after work.

But I figure I better get out of hibernation and engage with these people while we drive those seven minutes, even when they are the longest seven minutes of my human experience.

Because right now they think I might know something about zombies and icebergs and beagles, and right now they are curious to know what that is. Someday, I’ll be a brain stem. Until then, I’ll tell them what I still know.

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Medical Matters Pam Thompson

pam@healthcareresourcespv.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

Blood Clots and what you should know when traveling This time of year we receive a lot of calls from folks thinking they might have a blood clot in their leg after a long flight. So, I decided to ask our vascular specialist, Dr. Escoto, some questions on this particular subject.

Why would a long flight cause a blood clot in someone’s leg?

Blood clots can form in the deep veins (veins below the surface that are not visible through the skin) of your legs during travel because you

are sitting still, in a confined space for long periods of time.

The longer you are immobile, the greater the risk of developing a clot.

Many times a clot will dissolve on its own. However, a serious health problem can occur when a part of the clot breaks off and travels to the lungs, causing a blockage.

This is called a pulmonary embolism and can be fatal. The good news is there are things you can do to reduce your risk of blood clots during long distance trips.

Unite in the movement

# sinpopote

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

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

Please take care of your environment and stop using straws.

The next time you order a drink, say “sin popote, por favor.”

Who is prone to having these clots?

Even if you travel a long distance, the risk of developing a blood clot is generally very small.

Your level of risk depends on duration of travel as well as any other risks for clots. Most people who develop travel-associated clots have one or more risks such as: over 40 years old, obesity, recent surgery or injury (within three months), use of estrogen-containing contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy, pregnancy and post-partum period (up to six weeks after childbirth), previous blood clot, family history of blood clots, active cancer or cancer treatment, limited mobility (like a leg in a cast), varicose veins.

What would someone look for if they think they have a clot? About half of the people with DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis) have no symptoms. These are the most common symptoms that occur in the affected part of the body (leg or arm): Swelling, pain/tenderness that you cannot explain, skin that is warm to the touch, skin redness.

Nov 10 - 16, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

What is the treatment?

Medication (blood thinners) is used to prevent and treat DVT, compression stockings are sometimes recommended to relieve pain and swelling.

How can clots be prevented?

Be alert to the signs and symptoms of a clot. Talk with your doctor if you think you are at risk for a clot.

Move your legs frequently when on long trips and exercise your calf muscles to improve blood flow.

Take a break and stretch your legs.

Wear compression stockings.

Dr. Hector Escoto is a Vascular Specialist and specializes in “all things vascular”. We are very proud to work closely with Dr. Escoto.

Have a wonderful week!

What would you do in a medical emergency?

SkyMed provides peace of mind: if you or your loved ones ever experience a critical injury or illness while traveling, SkyMed provides emergency transportation to your local hospital and medical care providers. In short…

SkyMed TAKES YOU HOME! Nothing else matters!

It pays to be prepared: your SkyMed Emergency Air Evacuation Membership Program pays 100% UPFRONT of your emergency air ambulance with medical personnel on board, taking you ALL the way back to your home in the U.S. and Canada.

“If returning to the U.S. or Canada in the event of a serious medical emergency is important to you, then we invite you to register for one of our upcoming events in Puerto Vallarta” “Can you afford to shell out thousands of dollars upfront if you or your loved one needs to get back to your home hospital? If the answer is no, then you can’t afford to miss this presentation!”

Enjoy Happy Hour with drinks and botanas and take advantage of the discounts when buying select memberships at one of SkyMed’s group presentations Tuesday, November 15 4-6 p.m. No Way Jose’s 5th de Febrero #260 Or Thursday, November 17 4-6 p.m. Las Adelita’s Ave. Fluvial #234 Contact Kathleen Phelps, SkyMed’s certified representative for Puerto Vallarta area at kphelps1948@gmail.com, 322-142-2245 in Mexico, or 202-239-4252 (US).

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Creative hands of Mexico Leigh Thelmadatter

osomadre@hotmail.com

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.

Why?

O

ne thing that captures the attention of many foreigners here in Mexico is the wide range and depth of Mexico’s handcrafts and folk art tradition, nicely distinguished in Spanish with the word “artesanías.”

This is not your primary school arts and crafts, or simple handmade decorations for a party.

(Those are separated with the word “manualidades”) Instead, these are items whose value today are both historical and cultural as well as utilitarian and/or decorative, and have a far greater quality than most handcraft traditions. In the United States, perhaps the closest “artesania” tradition is quilt making. Many of these pieces are heirlooms, worthy of passing down, and there are many notable collections of Mexican handcrafts and folk art, such as that amassed by Nelson Rockefeller, who spent considerable time and money investigating and visiting notable artisans.

Despite its greater appreciation outside of Mexico than within, so much of the wonderful work that is done here, both traditional and innovative, remains highly unknown to the average tourist who sees things like amate paintings of the Nahuas, beadwork by the Huichols, pieces of major pottery traditions such as barro negro of Oaxaca and Mata Ortiz of Chihuahua and the numerous textile traditions….

Do you know what a “huipil” is? If you have traveled Mexico or Guatemala, especially in indigenous communities, you have very likely seen one, or a takeoff of one without knowing it. You may have even bought one.

I have lived for over 12 years in Mexico, and have been captivated by various aspects of Mexican culture. I first began delving into it in 2008 by writing Wikipedia articles, reading almost exclusively Spanish language sources, but writing articles in English. Almost all Mexican artesania articles in English Wiki-

This is a Chintaneco huipil from Oaxaca

Giant “alebrije” figure made from hard paper mache or “cartonería”

Weaving an ixtle fiber belt pedia were developed by yours truly. I still believe Wikipedia is a very important way to spread knowledge about Mexican hand-

crafts. Artisans who have Wikipedia pages have told me that they, and others, have noticed them. Carlomagno Pedro Martinez told me that his Wikipedia article “impressed the kids” in his community.

But Wikipedia has limitations, the main one being that it requires that all information that remains in the encyclopedia be cited in a reliable source. This means that while it is a great way to get basic information about the subject out to the public, it can only repeat that which is already stated in traditional media sources.

There is so much important information that is not in traditional media sources because for the most part, they have to make money, and there is little money in covering artisans, even those who have won prestigious awards such as Mexico’s National Arts and Sciences Prize. Even that which has been printed is primarily in traditional paper books, generally available in specialty or academic libraries, not (easily) accessible to the public.

After almost disappearing in the early 20th century, Mexican handcrafts and folk art made a comeback, most recently because of the rise of the tourism industry.

But if the common tourist does not know what s/he is looking at in the market, why is a pot, or a huipil, or a silver bracelet from Taxco more than just a shiny bauble? And why would they pay 2-5x the price for the genuine article, instead of the cheap (often Chinese) knock-off?

The overall principal goal of this column is to made more information available about Mexican handcrafts and folk art. It will profile various artisans from as many parts of the country as possible and not just the better known, but also those who are not known, but doing interesting work. It will also cover other developments in the field, including its relationship to fine art… as there is overlap and a gray area between the two.

Nov 10 - 16, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Frida Kahlo a Great Mexi

By Fred Jacobs

F

rida Kahlo was born on July 6, 1907 in Coyoacán, a village on the outskirts of Mexico City. Her father arrived in Mexico in 1891 from Germany and her mother of Indian blood from Oaxaca . At the age of 6 she developed Polio causing her right leg to be shorter than her left.

Due to her polio, Frida began school later than her friends.

While her sisters attended convent schools, Frida was enrolled in a German school by her father. She was then accepted to the elite National Preparatory School in 1922. The school had only recently begun admitting women, and she was one of only thirty-five girls out of the total of 2,000 students.[ At the age of 18 she was involved in a Streetcar/Bus accident that almost killed her. She needed 32 operations to save her life.

The accident ended Frida’s dreams of becoming a doctor, and caused her pain and illness that would plague her for the rest of her life. To occupy herself during her recovery, she began to paint with the aid of a special easel that made it possible for her to paint in bed, and a mirror that was placed above her.

Her strong mind saved her as she walked on crutches to support her spine. She suffered from periods of fatigue all her life which led her finally to relief with alcohol and drugs.

Freda studied painting in Mexico and abroad. Wherever she was whether Paris or Manhattan she wore clothing of that of an Indian maiden and people took notice. She met Diego Rivera in High School while he was painting a mural. She had heard of Diego as a teen and was impressed by his art work and political views. In 1929 they were married against the wishes of her family.

It was a stormy yet passionate relationship. Frida wanted to become pregnant but suffered miscarriages. Diego weighed 300 pounds and she was only 5 foot tall.

They divorced in 1939 and remarried in 1940 and remained married until her death in 1954.

She admired Russian leaders like Trotsky (who ended up being a lover of Frida’s) and was assassinated in 1940 here in Mexico. Stalin was another favorite politico who she also painted a portrait of. Frida was even honored by the world famous French Louvre Museum

who purchased a painting from her as well. This is an honor no other Mexican Artist had achieved.

In her final years Frida became very frail and week. A year before her demise, Mexico City held her first international Art Exhibit. She arrived by police escort and arrived in an Ambulance.

A bed was placed so Frida could hold court, drinking and chatting with her admirers. Her right foot had to be amputated below the knee, due to gangrene.

But the amputation failed and she tried to commit suicide. She was very depressed and did die 5 days after the operation. She was buried in her home town in Mexico.

Frida died in 1954 at the age of 47. It ended her constant health struggle for most of her life. Her 150 surviving paintings became treasures. 55 of them were self-por-

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Nov 10 - 16, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

ican Painter Planning for

the Affordable Care Act Orlando Gotay, Tax Attorney tax@orlandogotay.com

SPCA of Puerto Vallarta

By Janice Gonzalez

traits accenting her deep eyebrows and slight mustache. They reflected her many problems of her life and sexuality.

Hollywood made a movie called “Frida” starring the award winning actress Selma Hayek. It grossed worldwide $58 million and made her paintings even more valuable.

The US Postal Service even issued a memorial stamp in 2003 in her honor, a first for any Mexican female.

A top Museum in Mexico City staged an exhibit of her Art. Museums from as far as Japan lent 35 paintings, and it went on tour of the United States. It was a big cultural event. Her Paintings are her legacy and will be remembered forever.

Fred Jacobs is the author of 3 Books and a resident of Puerto Vallarta.

Few items generate confusion as the ACA. Expats are being affected by the lack of information specifically for them. This is just a highlight, and does not cover all situations.

ACA requires individuals to have health care coverage, qualify for exemptions, or pay a penalty come tax time. Knowing the rules is essential.

Are you covered? Employer provided health plans, COBRA, Catastrophic coverage, Medicare Part A, Medicare Advantage, along with most Veterans health care, qualify. You have to be covered (or exempt) for each of the 12 months in a year. An important detail--you are considered covered for a month if you are covered for at least one day of that month.

You can also be exempt… among other exemptions, if for example, you are not required to file a federal income tax return.

Another exemption, the “short term coverage gap” is available if you went without coverage for less than 3 consecutive months during the year. Combining the one-day rule and the “short term gap” rule can help account for coverage or exemption for a meaningful part of the 12 months…think how you will cover the year you move to/from Mexico.

Other exclusions: A U.S. citizen or a resident alien who was physically present in a foreign country or countries for at least 330 full days during any period of 12 consecutive months. The 330 days need

not be consecutive nor in a particular calendar year. (This is the “physical presence test”, borrowed from another tax provision, the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion).

Special extensions of time to file a tax return (beyond the normal ones) are available if you need extra time to qualify for this test.

Another: A U.S. citizen who was a bona fide resident of a foreign country or countries for an uninterrupted period that includes the entire tax year. The “bona fide residence test” was also borrowed from the tax code. The more your stay in Mexico appears to be permanent or indefinite, the more likely it is you will meet this test. Remember, that “residence” needs to be for the entire tax year.

If you do not have either coverage or exclusions for the entire year, you will have to pay the penalty for “missing” months.

When you move overseas, consider keeping your existing coverage, look for exemptions or take the payment due into account until you qualify for the exemptions.

Forewarned is forearmed!

Orlando Gotay is a California licensed tax attorney (with a Master of Laws in Taxation) admitted to practice before the IRS, the U.S. Tax Court and other taxing agencies. His love of things Mexican has led him to devote part of his practice to the tax matters of U.S. expats in Mexico. He can be reached at tax@orlandogotay.com.

This is just information; consult your tax advisor or attorney.

W

elcome back everyone!

Here’s the latest report from Lynnette at the Old Town Farmers Market: “What a great start we had at the first Farmers Market of the season! It was a beautiful Vallarta day and there are already lots of visitors in town. Many people stopped to say Hello to us at the SPCA stand and kept us busy most of the day. We had good sales on our popular tee shirts, bumper stickers and coffee mugs, totaling $2,000 pesos. This will buy some much-needed dog food for our sanctuary.

Our visitors were very generous this week. Local lady & friend of SPCA, Clare Leach had done some fundraising with her friends and presented us with $100 US! Thank you very much Clare and friends Alan Roberts & John Klonowski.

First-time visitor Marina Herbert from Houston gave us $500 pesos.

Thanks to Marina and all our other very kind donors.

There were several enquiries about our fabulous calendars and we’re glad to say they’ll be on sale very soon.

We have a new feature at the market. If you are renewing towels or sheets this year, please donate your old ones us. These are always useful at the sanctuary and we have a basket for collection at the Market stand.

Many thanks to volunteers Doreen, Michelle and Mark and welcome back from your summer vacations.” And as always, thanks so much for your report Lynnette.

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.

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Nov 10 - 16, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Vallarta Tickets has New Owner

A

s it prepares for its fourth season serving the tourism and performing arts communities, Vallarta Tickets announces this past week that it has been purchased by Puerto Vallarta native resident and entrepreneur, Srta.

Isel Celis. This ownership transfer is effective immediately and according to Isel, it will change the scope and future of the popular ticketing service that promotes events and shows. Vallarta Tickets serves hundreds of ex-patriot residents and visiting tourists from around the world.

“Working in the performing arts community for the past few years has only strengthened my love for Vallarta and all that it offers. As the new owner of Vallarta Tickets, I look forward to serving our customers and event partners and showcasing our world-class entertainment options, along with the diverse beauty of our city and the entire Banderas Bay region,” says Isel.

Preparations for Season 4 at Vallarta Tickets and the ownership transition have been underway for

months. The most notable development is cuts to service fees due to a new backend service provider.

This new system ensures easier and faster online ticket purchasing.

Isel served as the Director of Client Services in Season 3 and is very pleased that the previous backend service is permanently shelved.

“Last year there were too many complications without support for business expansion,” says Isel.

Another big service change is Isel’s decision to sell only in Mexican pesos (MXN). Last season, there were challenges for customers with the multiple-currency options on the Vallarta Tickets website.

According to Isel, this also created internal bookkeeping challenges because all ticket funds were transferred to the venues in the currency received from the customer. Isel says that all these problems will go away because all tickets sold through Vallarta Tickets will be priced in pesos, even when a venue uses a different currency. “Tickets with a USD face value will be sold at current bank conversion rates

at the time of purchase,” confirms Celis. She adds, “My business will offer services and tickets priced in Mexican pesos as required by law.”

Vallarta Tickets customers will enjoy the unique convenience of

shopping for show and tour tickets at the same time. Tours will include dinner cruises and other popular tourist activities. “I am really excited to offer this convenience to our loyal customers,” says Isel. “We are working very hard to create numerous way to connect customers with tickets via smart phones, a downloadable App, our website and via social media,” she adds.

Vallarta Tickets now offers professional box office support services, including a simple web-based ticket sales and management platform for venue operators and multiple-event producers.

“This easy-to-use ticketing system will help you quickly print and sell your event tickets from a laptop, smart phone or tablet, in just a few clicks,” Isel reports.

Expansion of the Vallarta Tickets services is already evident with the addition of event venue partners based in Bucerias and as far away

as Lake Chapala/Ajijic. Isel says she welcomes new ticket partners who are looking for increased exposure for their events or tours.

Isel reports that the upgraded Vallarta Tickets website will open for business before the end of November. “Everything is pointing to one of the biggest and most exciting entertainment and tourism seasons in Vallarta’s history. I am delighted and honored to engage with and actively support our vibrant performing arts and tourism community,” shares Isel.

Vallarta Tickets was launched

by Canadian co-founders Todd and Sandra Gaye Ringness and was an immediate success in meeting a long-felt need to help people get their advance show tickets without a trip to the box office. Nearly 20 venues, events and tours partners have offered more than 450,000 tickets through Vallarta Tickets since its inception in 2013.

New Routes from LAX to PVR

W

ith little precipitation and an average temperature of 73°F, December is one of the best times of the year to visit the Bay of Banderas, and a variety of airlines are capitalizing on the opportunity by launching new routes and additional flights from the U.S. west coast to the Mexican coast.

Interjet, Southwest Airlines and American Airlines have all recently announced the addition of new flights and routes from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Vallarta-Nayarit. Beginning on

Sunday, December 4, Southwest Airlines will fly once, nonstop daily from LAX to PVR while starting Thursday, December 15, American Airlines will fly nonstop daily from LAX to PVR. Both routes are accepting reservations now. Interjet is in the process of adding four new routes from LAX to PVR, after having just recently added new non-stop service between Mexico City and Los Angeles, Las Vegas and Chicago.

Original: www.travelagentcentral.com

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Comings and Goings Marcia Blondin

marciavallarta@gmail.com Comings There is magic happening November 10th in three different locations and I can attend just one. My fabulous choices include Paco Ojeda’s music appreciation of the French horn at the library, Opening Night at No Way Jose Restaurant of the Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre and the Gala Opening of the Second Edition of Cinema Diva’s Film Festival. I am choosing the latter because 1. Paco always has notes and video on his Facebook page El Placer de Escuchar so it’s almost like being there (but not, and I haven’t missed many these past months) and 2. I can catch the Murder Mystery at NWJ another evening and I will! Wael Kabbani is flying here from Cairo, Egypt to present his film “Life is Sacred”, and I will likely not see him again for another year so…

Admission to “Life is Sacred” is free so join me in celebrating Rudy Salazar’s Second Edition of Cinema Diva’s Film Festival at 8 pm at Cinemex Galerias at 8 pm, Thursday, November 10th.

…and Goings The last dying breath of day after Day of the Dead celebrations was spent on Saturday the 5th on Constitucion Street in front of Los Muertos Brewing resto. There were tables and chairs packed with tourists and ex-pats listening to live music, watching beautiful Folkloric dancers from all over the Republic, dancing queens, kids and the odd borrachin enjoying the Fourth Annual Fiesta en la Calle sponsored

by Conner Watts and his wife Stephanie, owners of Los Muertos.

The artisanal beer flowed and Los Muertos incredible food kept everyone happy. Profits from this day of intense planning go to benefit local Vallarta charities. Given a choice, go spend your money at establishments like Los Muertos that make a point of giving back to our community. Bravo, Los Muertos, once again.

Nov 10 - 16, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

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CANAL 22 Internacional Mexico’s Cultural Channel Transcends Borders

T

he cultural public television channel broadcasts programs on general interest issues with a focus on education and promotion of social values. Furthermore, it is viewed in the USA. Interview With Orissa Castellanos, Director of Canal 22 Internacional By Oso Oseguera Since 1993, Canal 22’s program schedule has been devoted to promoting the new arts, music, literature, history and science, as well as the diversity of expressions of the country’s vast indigenous culture.

More than twenty years after its foundation, Canal 22 has become Mexico’s culture channel. The goal of this channel is to contribute to a greater diversity of content, spread culture and education, and promote social values by providing quality programming to promote reaction, debate, and better-informed decision-making.

From the perspective of the people in charge of producing cultural television in Mexico it is relatively easy, “if we con- sider Mexico as a cultural power and that the supply of content to address is unlimited. The challenge is to ensure that the allocated budget is covered and covers this great cultural mosaic,” says Orissa Castellanos, Director of

Canal 22 Internacional.

A MARKET BEYOND THE BORDERS The Hispanic population in the USA receives Canal 22’s signal: more than 1.7 million subscribers, who represent seven million potential viewers. The public wants to see their problems and habits recreated on the screen, in addition to staying connected with their homeland.

“The inclusion of programs that reenact the reality of Mexicans on the other side of the border has been essential; they address the way they keep and pass on their traditions, and how these traditions change and become enriched,” says Castellanos.

The USA is a highly competitive market, which has led the broadcaster to venture into the distribution of content through new platforms, such as Over the Top (OTT), Net ix, video on demand (VOD), streaming, and others.

Traditional television remains a dominant medium and one of the most immutable. But what used to be a family experience has become more individualized, thanks to the proliferation of channels and other conventional and emerging platforms such as VOD, OTT, YouTube, and online transmission, among

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others.

TV still has the magic of live broadcasting.

The main challenge is to redesign the visual narrative with enriched content and begin trans media production. Since 2010, Canal 22 distributes its content through VOD five hours per month. They began with Comcast and now Verizon has joined. From October of 2014 they delved into the OTT modality with the series: Tocando tierra and Historias sabrosas with DirecTV (via YAVEO).

“We seek to be a space with real cultural vocation which is enriched with a team of proven professionals who share the vision of being the best cultural channel in Mexico, seeking to become self- manageable,” says the director of Canal 22

Nov 10 - 16, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Internacional.

In twelve years serving the Hispanic market in the USA, Canal 22 has built audiences, has been a link for emigrants to their country of origin and language, and it has also broadcast the best artistic and cultural expressions of Mexico and Latin America. A measurable achievement for the channel is that it remains on the air with an audience that has increased from 330,000 viewers in 2004 to more than 1.7 million in 2015.

To cater to the Hispanic market with its own productions, Canal 22 produces the original series En RutaT and the musical program La música con Manzanero, in addition to Mercados de México, Litorales and Historias sabrosas.

“We will continue to produce compelling content that reenacts the diversity of our culture and the richness of our history,” says Castellanos.

Currently, Canal 22 Internacional reaches the entire USA through seven cable distributors and one satellite broadcaster. The goal is to reach five million viewers by 2018.

EXCLUSIVE SERIES The Hispanic market in the USA has a promising future. It is expanding, and access of the Latino population to the middle class has caused this expansion of the market and a demand for audiovisual products in their own language. “We live in an era of hyper-consumerism in which there is a constant thirst for novelty, and in which each individual can access any type of content freely and immediately,” says the interviewee.

The trend is to produce exclusive series and Canal 22 has had posi-

tive results. TV formats have enabled addressing issues— formerly considered unattractive by audiences—in a pleasant way, with clear and simple language, arousing the interest of the viewers. “La oveja eléctrica (The electric sheep), for instance, is a clear example that science can be fun and engaging,” says Castellanos.

For 2016, Canal 22 has plans for investing in bi-national productions, giving continuity to emblematic series, and exploring new formats and languages. Currently, 30% of the content is acquired, 15% is exchanged, and 55% is exclusive.

The origin of the non-exclusive material is diverse, and comes from countries like Germany, Spain, the USA, France, and the UK. In 2016 Canal 22 Internacional will have a new program schedule.

Among the broadcaster’s highlights are the following series: Escándalos (Scandals). A series of Latin American dramatized reallife and recognized stories.

Carlos, Rey Emperador (Charles, King and Emperor) is a historical action based on the life of Charles V, grandson of the Catholic Monarchs.

Oriol Ferrer directs the production, with a screenplay by José Luis Martín, starring Álvaro Cervantes and Blanca Suárez.

Bandolera (Bandit), new season.

Action period series that chronicles the adventures of a woman caught between two worlds.

Special coverage of the Festival Internacional Cervantino (FIC), FIL, FICG, and the Guelaguetza in Oaxaca, among others. www.canal22.org.mx www.canal22internacional.org.mx

Clench’s Greenstreak (Cyanophrys miserabilis)

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his small (2.2 cm - 3 cm or 7/8 -1 1/8 in), emerald green member of the Hairstreak family was photographed near the river at Mismaloya, nectaring on the small native marigolds that are ubiquitous in the area. Hairstreaks have evolved rather interesting antennae-like projections from the base of their hindwings. Many species will continually twitch these false antennas and at first glance, the hindwing area can be confused with the head.

This has no doubt saved many a hairstreak life as a predator grabs a mouthful of wing instead of the succulent head. Like many of the butterflies of Mexico, I have not been able to find much information about this particular species except that the caterpillars apparently prefer Parkinsonia aculeata, also known as Mexican Palo Verde, a small tree in the pea family.

Clench’s Greenstreak can be found along both coasts but seems to be absent from Central Mexico.

travel

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Nov 10 - 16, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

5 Stunning Vacation Spots In Mexico That Go Beyond The Beach

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vacation in Mexico has long conjured up visions of reclining on miles of white sand and swimming in deep blue waters.

Stunning beaches are certainly part of the Mexican experience, but there’s a lot more to the country than that.

Here are five incredible places in Mexico — from colorful cities to dreamlike canyons and waterfalls — that should definitely make it onto your bucket list.

Mexico City The New York Times named Mexico’s capital the number one city to visit in 2016. Don’t miss the much touted historical center, legendary artist Frida Kahlo’s house museum called Casa Azul and the Castle of Chapultepec.

But the city has so much more to offer. Past and present converge in the trendy, vibrant neighborhoods of La Roma, Condesa and Polanco, which are all rich in restaurants, bars, galleries and designer shops.

Exhibitions at the MUAC, the Jumex Museum and the Tamayo Museum, as well as a skyline that’s rising higher and higher, also help to make Mexico City the country’s leading destination.

When you do think of sleep, you can choose one of the city’s long list of hotels. But more and more people are opting to stay in local apartments via Airbnb.

San Cristóbal de las Casas, Chiapas If you want to visit a true colonial-era Mexican city, you can’t go wrong with San Cristóbal de las Casas. Founded in 1528, it’s the home of the descendants of the Maya people ― including the Tzotzil, who are best-known for their colorful outfits and hand embroidery.

The city’s 16th century architec-

ture shines in the Cathedral, the Convent of Santo Domingo, and various other buildings found along the Andador Eclesiástico and Real de Guadalupe. Climbing to the top of the Temple of San Cristobal will give you a breathtaking view of the whole town. The city boasts a number of shops, cafes and restaurants offering handmade crafts and the very best of Chiapas food. The nearby towns of San Juan Chamula and Chiapa de Corzo are also well worth a visit.

Barrancas del Cobre, Chihuahua Chihuahua is home to Las Barrancas del Cobre, the massive Copper Canyon, where you’ll find stunning landscapes and meet members of the Rarámuri, one of the indigenous peoples of Mexico.

This is one of the most challenging areas to travel around in Mexico, but well worth the effort.

With the help of a guide, you can spend time with the Rarámuri communities, hike the canyons, raft through the Papigochi River and gasp at the Basaseachi and Piedra Volada waterfalls.

To start your unforgettable trip, you’ll want to board the Chepe (the Chihuahua-Pacific train) in the city

of Chihuahua, which will take you to Los Mochis on the coast.

Huasteca Potosina, San Luis Potosí This mountainous region along the Gulf of Mexico has gained popularity in recent years among travelers seeking extreme aquatic sports. If that’s you, you’ll definitely be interested in rafting on the Tampaón and Salto del Meco rivers and rappelling in the Tamul and Minas Viejas waterfalls.

The breathtaking view at dawn in the Sótano de las Golondrinas, an open-air pit cave, is another site you shouldn’t miss.

And don’t forget Las Pozas, a surrealist sculpture garden created

by English poet Edward James in the town of Xilitla. It looks like it came right out of a Salvador Dali painting.

San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato Once an important stop on the silver trade route between the mines of Zacatecas and the capital of Mexico City, San Miguel de Allende is now a UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site.

Even as the colonial-era city continues to modernize, its many fine examples of Novohispanic Baroque architecture amaze any visitor. La Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel (pictured above) is the parish church of San Miguel and the city’s crown jewel, but other attractions include the Square Garden, the School of Fine Arts, the Instituto Allende and La Capilla restaurant.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can always travel a few

extra kilometers to visit the historic Hacienda Landeta, eat at the Ristorante de Andrea and relax in the area’s natural hot springs such as

those at La Gruta. The charming town of Mineral de Pozos is an hour away by car.

Original: Huffington Post Mexico

Adorable Dog In The Spotlight...

AMIGA

by Janice Gonzalez

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miga is a friendly and sweet Labrador mix, just two years old and weighing 50.6 pounds. She is very sociable and good with other dogs, but doesn’t like cats. Amiga just loves to fetch her ball and enjoys splashing in a kiddy pool. We think she would probably love to go swimming. Amiga is a lovely dog that was abused before she was

rescued which resulted in scars on her back. In spite of that she is a sweet loving dog that will show her gratitude to a loving family. Amiga has been spayed, dewormed and is up to date on all her vaccines.

This sweetheart will surely win your heart and make a wonderful companion animal. Please contact us as spcapv@gmail.com for an application.

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riviera nayarit

Nov 10 - 16, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

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

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ey Everybody! There is so much entertainment fun going on around the North Banderas Bay this season! Mark your calendars. The markets are open! This last Sunday the La Cruz Sunday Market opened at the Marina. It was a good turnout for opening day. One of the new booths this season is the International Sailing Academy with Matt St. Maruice and Colin Gowland at the helm offering private lessons; 3 Day Intensive Clinics, or improve on your sailing abilities in a Colgate 26 that is specifically designed for learning.

Stop by to find out more at the La Cruz Marina next to the Fish Market! Also, new at the Marina Nayarit (La Cruz Marina) is the new La Palapa Beach restaurant next to Oso’s. Every Sunday enjoy my favorite rock band Trez Cuatroz who begin at noon Mexican time.

Prices are SUPER BARATO! Another new fun La Cruz restaurant is Tescalama, which is located just past Alamar Condos on the old road. Hang a left when

you reach the new road, and they are located on the right, up on the hill with great views, good pizza and wings; a delightful menu with very good pricing.

They have three HUGE flat screens for all of the sports and will have live music! I also had a great time at La Peska at the La Cruz Mariana located above Frascati’s with friends last week. The Beef Medallions were delicious, the Merlot like velvet, the service superb with excellent views of the bay.

Fun at the Black Forest Restaurant in La Cruz with a BEER FEST! November 15th at 5pm. They make their own brews now! I really like the dark beers, so good! Reservations are necessary! Sunday Schnitzel Madness 2X1 every Sunday..

Yumm! Latcho and Andrea’s amazing music begins Friday, Dec 2nd at 7:30!

In Bucerias.. Opening Party for Luna Lounge is on November 14th; come join the celebrating!

The ticket office opened on November 7th.

They have shows seven

days a week this season! Wow! Esquina 22 Bar and Lounge is now open on Sundays with a great entertainment lineup this season. Wed:Cesar Median 7pm, Thurs:Cheko & Alex 8pm, Fri:Ricardo Cruces 7pm. Also new..Stella Artois on draft! Vistas Del Sol presents “Legends” in Bucerias this season with new entertainment beginning with “Renacer Show”on November 23rd - Aerial acts (silks and ring), Russian bar acrobatic, free hand equilibrium and jugglery, circular flight – sounds amazing!In Sayulita at Don Pedro’s Restaurant and Bar you can catch Latcho and Andrea’s amazing music every Thursday at 7pm!

Feed the Hungry… as promised last week, the remainder of the events for John Ozzello Memorial Food Bank and Humanitarian Aid: January 24 from 4-7pm 3rd annual “HELP!

A Beatles Tribute” at the Drunken Duck in Bucerias. Cost is 200 peso per person. Only 150 tickets will be sold.February 1- 6th Annual Whale Watching fundraiser.

This event is SOLD OUT but there is a waiting list if any tickets become available.February 19 - 5-8pm the 1st annual “Happy days, Sock Hop” –Drunken Duck-Bucerias.

Enjoy an afternoon listening to your favorite songs of the 50’s. Cost is 200 peso per person. Only 150 tickets will be sold. For more information please email: rsnystrom@ hotmail.com or call 322 240 1082. I am attending a show at another new venue, “The Palm” in Bucerias this Monday to see the new Gypsy Rumba Band. I will let you know how it is! Have a super FUN week everyone!

Any questions please email me directly at Cat@RivieraNayaritFun.com Thank you and AHO!

Riviera Nayarit Hotels Are Remodeli

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he Bel Air Flamingos is getting a new convention center, there’s a new spa for the Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta in Nuevo Vallarta, the Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita has begun a multimillion-dollar remodel, and the Playa Escondida Hotel in Sayulita has upgraded as well.

Several hotels in the Riviera Nayarit are adding new spaces or upgrading their current facilities in order to increase the quality of their services and keep their status among the best hotels in the country.

Here’s a look at some of the latest news.

The Bel Air Collection Resort & Spa is building what will be the largest convention center in Riviera Nayarit, a total of 33,906 sq ft, which is scheduled to open Spring of June 2017. There will be further details moving forward about this new center for up to 1,600 people, which will help strengthen the Riviera Nayarit’s Meetings and Conventions segment.

The Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita is

working on a multi-million dollar remodel that will be finished by November 2016. Among the standouts will be a renewed Spa Apuane, an extensive redesign of their presidential suites—Sol and Luna—as well as a transformation of its adults-only pool, Tamai.

The renovated spa will offer 13 large treatment cabins, including two new ones plus a private suite. The residential suites will be expanded and receive luxurious updates and the pool will reflect a more contemporary artisanal and organic image.

Nuevo Vallarta’s Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta is looking at a new Rock Spa with 13 treat-

events

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Nov 10 - 16, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

From The Boutique

Headliner events to end the year in the Riviera Nayarit

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he December events include the 4th Taste of Nuevo Vallarta and the 16th Chili Cook-Off, the 2nd Gran Fondo Riviera Nayarit, the XXIII Baja Ha-Ha / 5th Sailors’ Splash, the 27th Anniversary of the Bahía de Banderas, the V World Beach Polo Cup, the 11th Sinergiarte Festival and the Pee Wee League.

One of the elements that distinguish the Riviera Nayarit from other tourism destinations is the amount of events that take place here in during the year and December is chock full of headliners that will end 2016 with a flourish. And don’t forget: this last month of the year brings with it the festivities in honor of the Virgin of Guadalupe, which are held just about everywhere.

4th Taste of Nuevo Vallarta and 16th Chili Cook-Off (December 3)

ing And Expanding

These two events take place in the Vallarta Yacht Club in Nuevo Vallarta, both showcasing the culinary pleasures of the Riviera Nayarit. On Saturday, December 3rd in the afternoon attendees will be able to sample all kinds of dishes and cooking styles. Both events are fundraisers for the Families of the Dump charity. http://www.vallartayachtclub.org/events/eventdetail/14267/-/ taste-of-nuevo-vallarta-great-chili-cook-off.

2nd Gran Fondo Riviera Nayarit (December 4). The Gran Fondo Riviera Nayarit is the most important long-distance bicycle race event in the region. Now in its second year, it offers a challenging route from La Cruz de Huanacaxtle to Sayulita and back.

XXIII Baja Ha-Ha / 5th Sailors’ Splash (December 9) For the fifth year in a row the Destination will host the Riviera Nayarit Sailors’ Splash 2016, a nautical rally that coincidentally takes place on the XXIII anniversary of the Baja Ha-Ha. Between 120 and 150 boats will be arriving at the Marina Riviera Nayarit in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle for this impressive show of sails. http://www.baja-haha.com/.

27th Anniversary of Banderas Bay (December 11) Banderas Bay celebrates its founding as a municipality with all kinds of events civic, sports, artistic and cultural to commemorate the history of this beautiful seaside town in the Riviera Nayarit.

ment cabins as well as two hydrotherapy areas to cover all the needs of the wellness segment.

The spa will include 7 individual cabins, a Rhythm & Motion cabin, a private suite cabin with its own hydrotherapy ritual, four double cabins, one boutique and separate hydrotherapy areas for men and women including a sauna, a steam room, a Jacuzzi and a plunge pool. There are several other hotels that are continually upgrading their facilities, including the Hotel Playa Escondida in Sayulita, which recently remodeled its rooms and its restaurants.

V World Beach Polo Cup (December 16-19) The success of the World Beach Polo Cup has made it one of the Riviera Nayarit’s signature events and it’s here to stay. This year they moved the date to December, much to the delight of the high season visitors. http://www.poloinrivieranayarit.com/ 11th Sinergiarte Festival (December 16-18) The Colectivo San Pancho in the Cultural Capital of the Riviera Nayarit organizes this grand artistic and cultural festival around a theme that changes from year to year.

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ast weekend for two-woman comedy drama Then, aging hookers, Patsy Cline, Sondheim, and Karaoke The Boutique Dinner Theatre offers exciting evenings of dinner-and-a-show options.

November 10, 11 and 12 are your last chances to catch “A Two Scented Rose,” the famous Emilio Carballido play, starring Catalina Meders and Catherine Beeghly.

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.

The final Thursday, Friday and Saturday shows start at 6 p.m.

Born in 1925, Emilio Carballido was a theater director, and the author of a hundred plays. Some were written for children; others made into movies. His work is said to be marked by a strong social conscience, shown in his criticism of injustices deeply ingrained in Mexican society. “La Rosa de Dos Aromas” has been translated and directed by T.J. Hartung.

Next is “The Oldest Profession,” directed by Ralph Hyman, Nov. 17-26. This hilarious comedy follows the lives of five aging prostitutes. Watch these 70-somethings share their stories with laughter and song.

The show stars Boutique veteran sirens—Catalina Meders, Alice Averett, Mikki Prost, Josie MacGilivray, and Lynne Dellinger—kicking up some seriously high heels.

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. Fans know Mikki updates her shows each year with different songs and stories. Join us to find out what Mikki has up her sleeve—and tucked inside that cowgirl hat.

The theatre is located upstairs at Nacho Daddy, 287 Basilio Badillo. Delicious threecourse 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. For information call 322-192-4616.

real estate

Nov 10 - 16, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Buying Safely

By Madeline Milne

So a Notary, Lawyer and Realtor walk into a bar in Mexico...

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he start of a good joke but in reality buying real estate in Mexico is not something to take lightly. Occasional bad press suggests that a real estate purchase in Mexico is not secure, but nothing is further from the case. Buying real estate in Mexico is a relatively simple process if you understand the procedures and people involved. This article examines the entities involved in your real estate purchase in Mexico.

Due diligence no matter where you might be is always a good idea, but sometimes in the heat of the moment, buyers in Mexico find themselves taking risks they wouldn’t otherwise take; such as the woman who lost her condo in Puerto Peñasco because she failed to follow through on standard real estate purchasing procedures.

It is estimated that there are over one million foreign owners in Mexico. Do not let ‘scary tales’ do more than convince you to take the usual precautions.

Do not be lulled into a false sense of security because you may be dealing with fellow Americans or Canadians. It does not mean the sale should be sealed with a handshake or scribbled on the back of a bar napkin; neither will hold up in court. Buying real estate in Mexico is a different process than Canada or the US; but it is performed daily across the country and whether you are a tourist or a resident you can legally purchase real estate in Mexico.

Who will you be working with?

A Notary ( Notario Publico) at the very least is required to complete all real estate transactions. A lawyer is highly recommended, a local and experienced real estate agent will give you boots on the ground advice and a Mexican bank if you are purchasing in the ‘restricted zone.’

When do you need a bank?

If your purchase is within the ‘restricted zone’ you many need to hold title through a bank trust, called a fideicomiso. The restricted zone is 100kms from

the border and 50kms from the ocean shoreline - for example all of the Baja peninsula is in the restricted zone, whereas San Miguel de Allende and Ajijic are not. A bank trust is a completely safe and secure way to purchase real estate in Mexico when you use reputable service providers.

“Land that comes from active or former Agrarian Trusts (known as Ejidos) are subject to very special rules. Dealing in Ejido land transactions is something that would be best handled by a competent Mexican real estate attorney”.

Most important is to research who you will work with, as they will ultimately ensure that your purchase is 100% legal and recognized by the Mexican government. The best way to find reputable people is to ask around for recommendations and interview more than one person/business before making a decision.

Working with a Notario Publico Once you have decided to purchase property in Mexico, the most important relationship you will have will be with the Notario Publico.

In a real estate transaction, the notary is equally responsible to both the buyer and the seller and ultimately responsible to the Mexican government. Their job is to ensure that the land transaction you are entering conforms to the legal formalities required for filing in the land registry, (A Notario will not review the terms of your deal for you.

Remember, the Notario does not have a duty of loyalty to any party) to calculate and retain the seller's capital gains tax on behalf of the government, collect the purchaser's acquisition tax and pay it to the Department of Foreign Affairs, coordinate appraisals, certificates of no liens, certificates of no debt and request all corresponding permits.

After the closing, the Notary must record the transaction at the Public Registry and the Tax (Cadastral) Office. This role is taken very seriously in Mexico in that the Notary could be held liable in both civil and criminal

terms.

Title Certificates and Liens The buyer should request a copy of the lien certificate or “certificado de libertad de gravamen” which will indicate the owner of record including the surface area and classification of the type of property, the legal description and if there are any encumbrances filed against the property. A complete title search of the property should also be performed and a copy of the title to the real estate should be requested of the seller. Each Land Registry is run by the individual Mexican state and is responsible for issuing their respective certificates. At only $500 pesos, this is a no-brainer request.

Though not specifically a legal title issue, a certificate of no tax liability, or certificado de no adeudo, should be requested. In Mexican transactions it is the responsibility of the notario publico to perform the title search but the notary generally examines only the current deed and current lien certificate which may not provide a complete title history of the property. Accordingly, it may be prudent to hire a Mexican attorney for a legal opinion on the status of title.

Working with a Mexican lawyer The second most important relationship will be with your lawyer. Technically you don’t need a lawyer for real estate transactions in Mexico but it is highly advisable to have a someone in your court, who understands the full extent of the law, protecting your interests.

An attorney will represent you and protect all your legal transactions by ensuring they are done in accordance with Mexican law. The attorney will draw up contracts and also documents of conveyances such as deeds and will review the terms and conditions of the sale. Legally, only a licensed Mexican attorney should provide advice on the laws. Attorneys that are not licensed to practice in the Mexican state where the transaction takes place, should not be relied on for advice on a real property transaction there. For-

real estate

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Nov 10 - 16, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

eign attorneys are not licensed to practice law in Mexico and should not give advice on Mexican law.

Your attorney will collect and verify all the documents necessary for the real estate purchase.

They should accompany, assist and review the Notary’s work before closing.

Once all the documentation and title research is concluded, the seller and you, the purchaser, will execute a Deed of Sale by which title is transferred. The document that transfers title to you is known in Spanish as an Escritura. Also known as an Instrumento Público, it will be recorded at the Public Registry.

Request all documents in English and Spanish All public documents must be prepared in Spanish however you should ask that you are provided with an English translation for ease of understanding.

The time to ask for a translation is not at closing. Get both English and Spanish drafts and go over them carefully, highlighting key items, such as sale price. In

the case of non Spanish speaking parties, interpreters can be present at closing and that fact

will be noted in the Escritura.

Please note that in case of any discrepancy only the Spanish

version shall prevail.

“The perils of not paying attention: Mr. Sanders bought a

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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.

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nice home in Mexico, for which he paid $500,000 USD. The sale closed, the deed was executed, and he didn't think of it again until he decided it was time to sell.

The day he pulled his copy of the deed to look over, he was stunned to see that the deed stated he only had paid about $250,000. (Likely to minimize closing costs.) Nothing could be now done about the fact that Mr. Sanders was now stuck with paying Capital Gains tax on a gain he never had. Had he read the deed carefully prior to signing, however...” Once the Deed of Sale is executed by you and the seller, the notary will verify that all the taxes and the public utility services have been paid and that the Deed was registered at the Public Registry.

Congratulations, you’re a homeowner in Mexico! Now to pack, because next week we’ll publish our top tips for moving to Mexico.

This article was reviewed and edited by Orlando Gotay, Attorney Sources: mexlaw.ca investmentpropertiesmexico.com Original: Mexi-go.ca

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Nov 10 - 16, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Events Calendar November 10-13 2nd Annual Cinema DiVa Film Festival films, music and theatre events – all events are free to attend.

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 important 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 16 Charity Bingo at Nacho Daddy Cards on sale at 3pm – Bingo starts at 4pm Live music by Stolie from 3-4pm Fundraising for Pasitos de Luz and Colina Spay and Neuter Clinic November 17 Vallarta Garden Club Kick-Off Jazz Foundation 5-7pm Allende 116 & Malecon First event of the season and a call for all past and new members to renew their memberships. Free appies and cash bar.

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 SOLD OUT - Third Annual Spaghetti Friend-Raiser at the Puerto Vallarta Fire

events 11th annual i Madonnari Festival

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 23 Charity Bingo at Nacho Daddy Cards on sale at 3pm – Bingo starts at 4pm Live music by Stolie from 3-4pm Fundraising for Pasitos de Luz and Colina Spay and Neuter Clinic November 23 Purr Project Bingo Margarita Grill – Basilio Badillo 5pm Fundraiser for the kitties of Vallarta. 3 bingo cards $100mx November 26 Under the Stars benefit dinner and auction for SPCA de PV Puerto del Cielo, 6pm. Tickets at spcapv@ 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 Frascati.

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 November 30 Charity Bingo at Nacho Daddy Cards on sale at 3pm – Bingo starts at 4pm Live music by Stolie from 3-4pm Fundraising for Pasitos de Luz and Colina Spay and Neuter Clinic December 3 4th Taste of Nuevo Vallarta and 16th Chili Cook-Off Vallarta Yacht Club in Nuevo Vallarta. Starting at 1pm fundraising for the Families of the Dump charity.

December 5 Bucerias Children’s Xmas Fundraiser Drunken Duck, Bucerias Doors open at 2pm Tickets are $200p Live music, specials, raffle and prizes.

December 7 Charity Bingo at Nacho Daddy Cards on sale at 3pm – Bingo starts at 4pm Live music by Stolie from 3-4pm Fundraising for Pasitos de Luz and Colina Spay and Neuter Clinic

First Place 2015 – Frida Kahlo by Quetzal Cocoatl

Madonnari, or street painters, transform the main plaza in Puerto Vallarta using pastels on pavement to create vibrant and colorful, large scale images.

From November 11-13, the 11th Annual ‘i Madonnari’ Chalk Art Festival will be held in Puerto Vallarta.

Street painters or chalk artists are called Madonnari in Italian because they painted mainly images of the Madonna.

The Italian Madonnari have been traced to the sixteenth century. They were itinerant artists, many of whom had been brought into the cities to work on the huge cathedrals. When the work was completed, they needed to find another way to make a living, and thus often would recreate the paintings from the church onto the pavement.

Aware of festivals and holy days held in each province and town, they traveled to join in the festivities to make a living from observers who would throw coins if they approved of the artist’s work. For centuries, many Madonnari were folk artists, reproducing simple images with crude materials such as tiles, coal, and chalk.

Others, such as El Greco, would go on to become household names.

The first ‘I Madonnari’ Festival in Puerto Vallarta was in 2005, with international chalk artists creating amazing works of art on the streets and sidewalks.

Weather permitting; these beautiful displays will last for a number of days.

Be sure to plan a stop at the main plaza, and don’t for get your camera. The festival awards prizes for the best pieces including an all expense paid trip to the winner of the adult category to the popular Santa Barbara i Madonnari Festival in 2017.

events

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Farmer’s Markets

M

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.

Nov 10 - 16, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

River of Arte 2016: Sunday, December 4th Art, Artists, Performers, Food and Fun!

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roceeds from art, food and silent auction sales to benefit the Puerto Vallarta’s Colina Spay and Neuter Clinic Puerto Vallarta’s premier outdoor art show is coming soon: River of Arte 2016 on Sunday, December 4th on at Oscar’s Restaurant on La Isla Cuale promises to be the best yet. Mark the date on your calendar!

More than 60 of Mexico’s most talented artists will be exhibiting from 12:00 – 5:00 p.m. Admission is free, with proceeds from art, food and silent auction sales to benefit the Puerto Vallarta’s Colina Spay and Neuter Clinic.

The clinic is staffed by volunteers and funded by donations.

By providing free sterilization for pets and street animals, it helps to prevent unwanted animals from suffering and to keep Puerto Vallarta’s streets clear of strays.

“From a modest start years ago up river, this year’s River of Arte will be better than ever,” says Carolina Archer, committee chair and event founder. “As Puerto Vallarta’s #1 art show, River of Arte 2016 on December 4th is a don’t-miss event.”

People attending River of Arte 2016 will enjoy a most memorable afternoon of fantastic art, chatting with the artists, local entertainment highlighting Mexican culture, wonderful refreshments from Oscar’s, prize-winning raffles, and a silent auction of great gifts donated by Puerto Vallarta’s most generous local merchants.

Entertainers include: • Brittany Kingery, a tropical folk rock singer and recording artist of Puerto Vallarta Act II fame who just returned from a six-month U.S. tour • Los Bailadores del Jorullo, a traditional dance troupe • Los Polvitos de Jalisco, a Mariachis group Anyone interested in more information or donating to the River of Arte 2016 should contact Carolina Archer at doggonegoodcarolina@yahoo. com.

By Bill Makley – bmakley@ bellsouth.net

What: River of Arte 2016 — more than 60 top Mexican artists When: December 4, 12:00-5:00 p.m.

Where: Oscar’s Restaurant Isla Cuale, Puerto Vallarta Cost: Free

Support Purr Project Annual Garage Sale

Purr Project’s 3rd annual garage sale will be on Saturday and Sunday, November 12-13, with all proceeds benefiting the 150+ furry residents of the Purr Project shelter.

Among the goodies for sale are an exer-cycle, luggage, CDs/DVDs, still-in-the-box Hamilton Beach indoor electric grill, Krups coffeemaker, new Proctor-Silex toaster, decorator pillows, curtains, valances, pillow shams, office supplies, furniture, tons of artwork, lots of gently-used clothing (women’s bathing suits), purses, jewelry, TVs, books and mucho mucho mas!

You name it…we probably have it! Get there early for the best selection!

Dates: Saturday and Sunday, November 12-13 Times: Saturday: 8:00am to 4:00pm Sunday: 9:00am to 1:00pm Location: Gaviotas #143 in the Marina – turn into the Marina at the whale statue; take the first right onto Pelicanos; the next right is Gaviotas

Old Town Farmers Marke

Meet the OTFM-TC’s N

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

E

ndless thanks for making our 8th season opener (last Saturday) such a success! Hundreds came out to enjoy the “make it, bake it, grow it” vibe of Vallarta’s favourite weekend activity.

New visitors were wow’ed by fresh produce, artisan goods, and live music. Long-time market fans had fun searching out their favourite vendors, thanks to the market’s expansion. One long-time market goer commented that she loved the serendipity it offered. Her Saturday routine became an adventure, searching out her favourite vendors while discovering new ones!

To explore on your own, check out the relocation of vendors from the “Page In The Sun” side to the east end of the market along calle Pino Suarez.

“Make It, Bake It, Grow It” Must-Haves Join us this Saturday to discover everything from handcrafted clothing, organic coffee, and nut butters to British fruit/meat pies, Huichol art, and traditionally woven items.

New vendors include: Tropical Flowers, Produce, Macadamia Nuts - The market is thrilled to add another farmer this season. Carlos

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.

Liston and his family have spent the past 30 years perfecting the art of growing heliconias.

Along with these tropical flowers, Liston will be selling seasonal fruits, vegetables, and macadamia nuts.

Fresh Cheese - Nestor Soderguit is back this season after earning his culinary degree. His fresh cheese is made from what he calls, “the richest, best flavoured cows milk in the area.” Soderguit will start the season with fresh cheeses and infused olive oils and as ageing time allows, add more cheeses later.

Handmade Tortillas - Aleo Talavera and his partner, Anabel, make fresh tortillas on site. They use heritage corn grown on Anabel’s family farm in El Tuito. Stop by their booth in the northeast corner of the market to get a stack or try your hand at tortilla making!!

Bags and Accessories - Claudett Johnston, a local designer, showcases one-of-a-kind leather and handdyed canvas beach bags. Stock up on these musthaves for yourself and loved ones.

et - Tianguis Cultural

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

New Vendors

Teas and Spices - Oksana Olinyk forages through local forests for the finest plants and herbs. She masterfully incorporates them into her specialty line of blended teas and spices.

Paella - Rita Canizares, former owner of La Pena restaurant in Vallarta, brings paella, a Spanish rice dish made with seafood and meat. Valencia uses secret recipes cultivated from her many years of working in Spain.

Pizza - Pizza aficionados will love the variety of pies offered by Jessica Narvaez and her partner, Carlos.

They have perfected the art of pizza-making using a redesigned Webber BBQ. Enjoy your “pie” on site or to go.

Baked Goods - Diego Alves and his partner, Rebecca, have expanded their home-based baking business to the OTFM-TC. Choose from a wide selection of sweet breads, cakes, squares and pavlovas (a meringuebased dessert named after the Russian ballerina, Anna Pavlova).

Pickles - Carlos Aguilar has taken over the famous Bickles Pickles, a well-loved market business. Aguilar maintains the pickling tradition with the same great selection of dills, bread and butter pickles, as well as the always popular pickled beets.

Fish and Shrimp - Love fresh shrimp and fish? Visit Catalina Martinez’s booth for the “catch of the day” from Banderas Bay. Martinez’s family runs a stall in the La Cruz fish market.

Breakfast and Waffles - Start your Saturday right with breakfast or waffles. “My Tia’s Breakfast” (located in the food court area to the east of the kiosk) is operated by Caroline Fast, who recently retired from chocolate-making to pursue her passion for cooking savory foods.

Calling All Foodies Our food court areas are brimming with on-site dishes and beverages. Items include Thai, Mexican, coffee, agua frescas, sausage in a bun, 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.

Live Music Music lovers will be thrilled to know that we now have two music venues: a main stage for larger groups and the Pino Suarez stage for solo/duo acts. Both will feature some of the most exciting entertainers from Puerto Vallarta.

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 non-profit/ association civil organization that focuses on nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit of Puerto Vallartans. All OTFMTC 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

charity

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Nov 10 - 16, 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

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

Desayunos para los Niños de Vallarta A.C.

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

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

27

international friendship club

Celebrating 30 Years of Serving P.V.

By John Warren

F

or unknown reasons there are a high number of children in this area who are born with cleft palates.

Cleft lip and cleft palate are openings or splits in the upper lip, the roof of the mouth (palate) or both. They result when facial structures that are developing in an unborn baby don’t close completely.

Having a baby born with a cleft can be upsetting. It is difficult for the baby to eat and, later in life, their abnormal appearance can cause social stigmatism at school, so the quality of life for such children is severely diminished. However, cleft lip and cleft palate can be corrected.

In most babies, a series of surgeries can restore normal function and achieve a more normal appearance with minimal scarring.

In 1986 Ron and Celia Walker were living in Puerto Vallarta when a couple of their friends had a baby who was born with a cleft palate.

The Walkers went searching for a surgeon who could help this family and found him in Guadalajara and took the baby there.

Soon there was another child who needed the same help and they went back to that surgeon in Guadalajara. As word spread around P.V., the Walkers had more children to help than they could transport so they asked the surgeon to come to Vallarta and perform the surgeries here. But the cleft palate program needed money

to pay for the travel and accommodation costs of the medical team. Ron, Celia and other local residents then formed the International Friendship Club (IFC) of Puerto Vallarta to fund the program and it been in operation ever since.

The I.F.C Cleft Palate Program runs four times a year. A clinic is held at the IFC Clubhouse the day before surgeries. The children in the program see the doctors and are evaluated for ongoing needs and to determine if they need surgery the following day.

Normally around 30 children are seen on clinic day and a dozen or so patients will be

Trip Advisor – “Excellent”

T

rip Advisor shows that 277 guests have rated the IFC Home Tours. 266 said the experience was “Excellent” and the other 11 rated them “Very Good”.

In March 2016, one visitor wrote this: “For our third year we attended the Puerto Vallarta house tour.

We visited 4 beautiful homes with varying style. Our tour guides, Mike and Susanne, were knowledgeable and humorous. They shared a little about each house as the comfortable, air condition bus traveled there.

This was our third year and we plan to attend every year. The homes change from year to year. This year we saw a more typical home we enjoyed. The tour takes us places we would never see otherwise. Also the money is for many good causes

in the area, which is another plus. We recommend this tour to everyone.”

IFC Home Tours will start up for the season at 10:30 on 29th November. Visitors are taken in comfortable, air-conditioned buses to 4 beautiful homes by knowledgeable docents.

Tours, which last about three hours, 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.

scheduled for surgery the next day. The IFC is very fortunate to be working with the CMQ Hospitals here in P.V. They have been most generous in their support of this program, providing operating rooms and beds for the children as well as many other services.

All of the doctors and nurses who travel to P.V. from Guadalajara donate their valuable time to support this worthwhile program.

Our surgeons are Doctor Ezequiel Fuentes Lopez and Dr. Rodolfo Becerra Castaneda, and their special nurses are Enfermero Emma Gonzalez Serna, chief of nursing at Sanatorio Versalles,

Enf. Maria del los Angeles Alvarado of the Instituto Jaliscence de Cirugia Reconstructiva, and anaesthesiologist Dr. Emigdio de la Cruz Llontop Pisil, also of the Instituto Jaliscence de Cirugia Reconstructiva. The doctors bring all their surgical instruments with them, and the IFC buys the surgical supplies that are needed.

IFC also buys the airline tickets for the medical team and provides them with donated housing for their stay. Various restaurants in Puerto Vallarta support the program by donating dinners or offering our medical personnel and volunteers reduced prices. For

Nov 10 - 16, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

example, Daiquiri Dick’s has been donating clinic-night dinners to our group for years, and we appreciate that very much. Other Puerto Vallarta restaurants that have been generous in their support are: Ocho Tostados, Bravos Restaurant, Masala La Cruz, PV Cupcakes, Prime 159, Sea Monkey, Ginger, Fajita Republic and Eddie’s Place.

This, as you can see, is a tremendous community support program.

In order to support the cleft palate program the IFC started its Home Tours in 1988. Thirty years later, the profits from the Home Tours not only support the cleft palate program but also about 25 other charitable programs in the city.

The tours take people condos and villas that are architecturally interesting. Some have stunning views of the shore and the ocean and many have wonderful art and decorating. The owners of these homes donate access to their homes knowing that by helping IFC they are helping kids have a better life.

This season, the tours start on Tuesday 29th November. They run every Tuesday and Wednesday throughout the winter. Comfortable, air-conditioned buses leave the Sea Monkey Restaurant (at the foot of Aquiles Serdan on the beach) at 10:30am on those days, last about three hours and cost $600 pesos.

Please visit ifctoursforvallarta. com to learn more about our Home Tours and ifcvallarta.com for news about the club›s activities.

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

www.vallartatribune.com

Marsol Friday Market by the Pier

T

he Grand re-Opening of the Marsol Friday Market with festive flags and music boasted twice as many vendors as the previous week. It is that time of year we all enjoy so much – reconnecting with friends from years past. A joyous day, indeed.

Sandra is back with new walking tours and new maps. Her books are easy to use identifying local flowers and trees and exactly where you can find her favourite specimens. The greatest thing about Sandra’s books is they are color-coded, so if you come across a burst of yellow flowers, go to the yellow pages and find a photo that matches. Ingeniously done!

If you are redecorating a home or condo, do check with Mauricio from

La Coleccion for ideas. Also, look for Sherry with furniture she buys and sells and has one of Vallarta’s finest eyes for redecorating. And ladies – she is the best personal shopper (for anything and everything) and if you are having difficulties with your wardrobe – look no further.

If you see someone stunning walking down the street, chances are Sherry has gone through her closet, then taken her shopping!

We have every kind of jewelry: fabulously sterling to funky made-from-string, with all attendant price ranges. Great gifts to give to yourself or someone else you love!

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

Three Hens & a Rooster Market News

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ld Town Puerto Vallarta can be very proud of its Artisan Markets – at the center is the Farmer’s Market in Parque Lazaro Cardenas with over 85 unique vendors selling everything from soup to (macadamia) nuts. Five blocks from there, and at slightly different hours so everyone can get to both, is Three Hens and a Rooster Market: smaller and decidedly different. Those of you who fondly remember the Paradise Community Centre Market will be happy to know Three Hens is precisely as far

from Parque Lazaro Cardenas as the PCC Market was. So, no more excuses! And, the walk straight up Venustiano Carranza has no hill to climb!

This week we welcomed Lalo back from his summer sojourn in San Miguel de Allende with his newly acquired crop of exquisite vintage jewelry.

All Boutiques are full – upstairs and down with unusual, glorious one-of-a-kind offerings. The courtyard is buried under tables of jars of honey, cushions, fanciful decorations, Kim’s amazing angel food

cake, Gloria Sue’s fried chicken and fresh salads to take home, silver, Jeanine’s main courses to go and so much more.

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

MARSOL FRIDAY MARKET

BY THE PIER EVERY FRIDAY 9:30 am - 1:30 pm

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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CROSSWORD SOLVE!

games

Nov 10 - 16, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com