Issue 1039, March 2 - 8, 2017

EVENTS

Circo de los Niños San Pancho Page 16

Events

Youth-Based Jazz Orchestra Salty Paws Page 19

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March 2 - 8, 2017 Year 19 Free Issue 1039

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Yvan Genest Courtesy of Galleria Dante Page 08 Featured Property Page 12

ADORABLE DOG FOR ADOPTION Page 10

PALMAS 11 Bucerias ocean front Page 13

welcome

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 to the Ameca River and including Nuevo Vallarta.

BUSES: A system of urban buses can bring you from one end of the bay to the other and all the spots in between. Current fare within Puerto Vallarta is $7.50 pesos per ticket and passengers must purchase a new ticket every time they board a bus. Hold on to your ticket. This is your proof and insurance should anything happen.

Bus destinations are typically written on the front of the window.

Those with a ‘centro’ sign will drive through downtown Puerto Vallarta and those with a ‘tunel’ sign will drive through the tunnel roads that go behind the city.

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 unless there are more than four passengers.

Take note of the taxi number on the outside door and where it picked you up. If you lose an item this information will be vital to attempting to get it back.

MONEY EXCHANGE: To exchange money you will need your passport. Best option is to use your bankcard to withdraw funds from any ATM machine. ATM’s in the banks are the safest to use and generally charge lower fees.

USING PESOS OR USD: Businesses must their prices in pesos and they may also post the prices in any other currency they choose.

They cannot refuse to accept pesos.

Some service staff may appreciate being tipped in USD and others in pesos. If you are concerned, ask.

TIPPING: How much and when you tip are personal choices and unless otherwise noted a 10-20%

tip on food and beverage and services is standard. Tip the kids and seniors who bag your groceries. They work exclusively for tips. Have change at the ready for musicians and clowns that ride the buses – typically tipping 5 pesos or less. Taxi drivers do not receive tips unless they go to extraordinary lengths.

DRINKING WATER: Puerto Vallarta’s water (at the source) is certified pure enough to drink. For many who live here long term, we drink from our taps with no issues.

For those on vacation, it may be better to stick to bottled water.

EXPORTING PETS: Falling in love with a rescue animal is easy – and it’s easy to take them home with you. The process is quick and inexpensive. You need a certificate of health from a local vet with the appropriate inoculations, among other things. The time of year that pets can travel in the cargo hold of the plane may be your biggest challenge. Contact your airline to double-check their requirements.

COMMON SENSE: Just as you would not walk around your hometown drunk and belligerent, it is not acceptable to do that here. While Mexicans are a forgiving bunch, basic politeness is appreciated. 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 15,000 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 a valid excuse in Mexico or anywhere. If you find yourself caught in a legal situation be aware that the system works much differently here than you are likely used to. 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

March 2 - 8, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Calling in Mexico Calling phones in Mexico can be tricky. 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 (U.S. and Canada 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, the 10 digit number. 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 newsstands and in pharmacies.

Pay phones do not accept coins. When buying a phone card for pay phone use, specify that you would like a tarjeta LADA. CALLING TOLL-FREE NUMBERS Some toll free numbers work from Mexico to the US and Canada, but many do not. Those that do work are often not toll-free. 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: 911 Red Cross: 065 Fire Department: 322.223.9476 Ambulance: 322.222.1533

Ahoy Cruisers!

NAME CARNIVAL MIRACLE GRAND PRINCESS RUBY PRINCESS CARNIVAL MIRACLE NORWEGIAN JEWEL WESTERDAM WESTERDAM RUBY PRINCESS CARNIVAL MIRACLE NORWEGIAN JEWEL MAASDAM CARNIVAL MIRACLE

PASS DATE 3,200 01/03/2017 2,600 04/03/2017 2,600 07/03/2017 3,200 08/03/2017 2,240 08/03/2017 1,266 08/03/2017 1,266 14/03/2017 2,600 14/03/2017 3,200 15/03/2017 2,240 15/03/2017 1,258 21/03/2017 3,200 22/03/2017

Immigration: 322.224.7719 Consumer Protection: 01.800.468.8722 Tourism Offices Jalisco: 322.221.2676 Nayarit: 322.297.1006

Consulates American Consulate Nuevo Vallarta: 322.222.0069 24 hrs Guadalajara: 333.268.2145 Canadian Consulate 322.293.0098 322.293.0099 24 hrs: 1.800.706.2900

In port this month

In the month of March Puerto Vallarta welcomes 39, 150 passengers!

NORWEGIAN JEWEL RUBY PRINCESS CARNIVAL MIRACLE NORWEGIAN JEWEL

2,240 2,600 3,200 2,240

22/03/2017 28/03/2017 29/03/2017 29/03/2017

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

Cut out and put near your phone for handy reference

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editorial

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Editor’s

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editor@vallartatribune.com

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his past weekend I donned my stretchy yoga pants and caught the bus to El Rio BBQ-Bar for the 5th Annual Chili Cook-Off, which raises funds for the American Legion and the Banderas Bay Women’s Shelter.

Like I needed an excuse to spend the day at El Rio! I often joke that one day it will be my home – because I love the spot, not because I eat too many ribs.

Situated on a curve in the Rio Cuale a few kilometers above the city of Puerto Vallarta, it is this wonderfully jungle-y spot with a swimming hole and a huge rock face that has kids jumping into the river below. El Rio often has live music during the afternoons and hosts the Dinner and Tribute shows produced by Merv Buchanan in the evenings. If you haven’t been, don’t delay. Fabulous food, great staff and a really unique destination that you can brag about to your friends back home. And…. If you needed another reason to head there, Riverfest is now a three-day affair starting on Friday and running through Sunday.

This weekend Riverfest, which is a major fundraising event for Pasitos de Luz will take place from Friday through Sunday at El Rio. There are bands, food, raffle prizes, 50/50 draws, silent auction, haircuts by the ‘Magic Man’ Alex Daoud of Alexander A Salon as well as other vendors and all the proceeds go to support the efforts of Pasitos de Luz. It will be busy.

Arrive early for a good seat! And I’ll see you there!

In La Cruz, Amigos de La Cruz presents Sex Please, We are Sixty on Sunday, March 5 (matinee) and Wednesday, March 8 in the evening. Funds raised by this great group of community volunteers goes to support the efforts of Amigos de La Cruz. More details and to purchase tickets, visit www. amigosdelacruz.org Unfortunately I can’t make it but columnist Cindy Bouchard of ‘Life in la Cruz’ fame

will attend in my place and report back next week.

The Chacala Music Festival starts this coming week as well. If you’ve been looking for a reason to explore the northern part of Riviera Nayarit, Chacala is a lovely fishing village that is just now getting noticed. It has a very clean and swimmable beach as well as a number of restaurants serving the catch of the day. There is everything from small rooms to oceanfront villas for rent - make it an over night trip and see how the locals in Chacala get down!

On Thursday, Viva el Canto, the fundraiser for Los Mangos Library is at the Sheraton, is featuring Soprano Yael Jiménez along with Tenor José María Aguirre and accompanied at the piano by Hector Acosta. This evening of arias and popular songs will help fundraise for Puerto Vallarta’s only library which is supported 100% by donations. Tickets and info can be found on their website at: www. bibliotecalosmangos.com While I haven’t been to Incanto yet, I am planning on stopping by for their newly launched riverfront breakfast, now served seven days a week. Word on the calle is that the eggs benny is the best in town.

I’ll be the judge of that!

And finally, I’ve been spending a bit of time lately in Marina Vallarta and it’s impressive. So many new restaurants and you can’t beat the Thursday evening market (until the end of April from 6-10pm) for sheer quantity of goods and lots of your favourites from the other markets around the bay. Something’s afoot in Marina Vallarta; it’s the new cool place to be. Don’t miss out.

I am out of space for this week, so I’ll just remind you (again) tips are a huge part of the livelihood for most in the service industry.

Be generous and tip your servers, bartenders, and the person who bags your groceries - anyone who is helpful. A good trick is to have a pocket full of coins so you can hand them out when and where needed, of course bills are good too. An often-asked question is, “how much do I tip?” – of course it’s up to you but it really can’t be too much: a few pesos for baggers up to 20% and more for fine dining service.

Mexico is the fifth most diverse country in the world and voted number one best country to retire for 2017. Go explore it with love and gratitude!

Safe travels, Madeline

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March 2 - 8, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

news

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March 2 - 8, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Canada: We Will Not Sacrifice Mexico in NAFTA Renegotiation

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anadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland said at a conference in Toronto that the Ottawa government has no intention of sacrificing Mexico, as some analysts have suggested it might. With Mexican Foreign Minister Luis Videgaray seated at her side, Freeland told a group of more than 100 businessmen and journalists participating in the Canadian Council for the Americas conference that the renegotiation of NAFTA will be tripartite.

Trump has suggested that he will renegotiate NAFTA with Mexico and Canada separately.

The US president thinks that NAFTA has disproportionally benefitted Mexico because the US has a trade deficit with its southern neighbor.

The US administration has also said that the situation with Canada is very different because bilateral trade, which stands at about $1.9 billion each day, is evenly balanced.

The statements by Trump and

his advisers have motivated Canadian political analysts to suggest in recent weeks that Ottawa should focus on preserving its relationship with the US, even if that means sacrificing the one it maintains with Mexico. Meanwhile, Mexican Economy Minister Ildefonso Guajardo established the general lines alone which Mexico intends to renegotiate NAFTA, acknowledging that the pact needs to be updated given that, for instance, “there were not even cellphones” or e-mail when it was created.

But, he said, for negotiations to commence, the US will have

to acknowledge that the pact has benefitted its economy, despite Trump’s public denial of that possibility.

He said that the figures do not support Trump’s rhetoric that NAFTA has destroyed US jobs because the sectors most closely linked to the accord – such as automobiles, computers and aerospace – have expanded while those that are not have “quickly” shrunk.

“Mexico and Canada, especially Mexico, is not part of the problem in the US manufacturing sector, but part of the solution for maintaining jobs in the United States,” he said.

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Mexico’s Economy Grows 2.3% in 2016

March 2 - 8, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

What Would You Do In A Medical Emergency?

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SkyMed TAKES YOU HOME! Nothing else matters!

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exico’s gross domestic product (GDP) grew 2.3 percent in 2016, thanks to growth in the resources and service sectors, the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI) said Wednesday.

The Finance and Public Credit Secretariat was forecasting GDP growth of between 2 percent and 2.6 percent for 2016, with the final number coming in within that range. Despite the economic uncertainty created in Mexico by Donald Trump’s win in the Nov. 8 US presidential election, GDP expanded at a 2.4 percent clip in the October-December period.

The fourth quarter, in fact, was the second best quarter for Mexico’s economy last year.

The 2.3 percent growth registered in 2016, however, was two-tenths of a percentage point lower than in the previous year.

Agriculture and mining grew at a 4.1 percent rate last year, while the service sector expanded 3.4 percent and manufacturing was unchanged, the INEGI said.

In the fourth quarter, GDP expanded at a 2.4 percent rate in real terms, compared to the

same period in 2015, thanks to 6.4 percent growth in the agriculture and mining sector, and a 3.4 percent rise in the service sector.

Manufacturing was flat in the October-December period, the statistics agency said.

The Mexican economy’s growth accelerated in the fourth quarter, compared to the prior quarter, when GDP expanded at a 2.1 percent annualized rate.

On a seasonally adjusted basis, GDP grew 0.70 percent in the fourth quarter, compared to the prior quarter, thanks to 0.80 percent growth in the service sector and a 0.20 percent expansion in the manufacturing sector, offsetting the 0.30 percent contraction in agriculture and mining, the INEGI said.

The Bank of Mexico revised its 2017 growth forecast downward last month, adjusting the GDP growth range to 1.5 percent to 2.5 percent, or half a percentage point less than the earlier estimate.

Mexico’s GDP grew 2.5 percent in 2015, a figure that was above the 2.1 percent growth registered in 2014 and the 1.4 percent figure for 2013.

Original: Laht.com

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“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 snacks and take advantage of the discounts when buying select memberships at one of SkyMed’s group presentations.

Tuesday, March 7 at No Way Jose 4-6 p.m.

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Avenida Fluvial #234, near Costco Don’t Miss SkyMed’s Member Appreciation Luncheon Wednesday, March 15 12 noon at No Way Jose.

Will Klein, the founder and Chairman of the Board of SkyMed will be visiting and welcomes all members and non-members to attend.

Registration closes on March 8.

Register at https://www.skymed.com/weappreciateyou

Contact: Kathleen Phelps - SkyMed’s Certified Representative of Puerto Vallarta area at kphelps1948@gmail.com, 322-142-2245 in Mexico, or 202-239-4252 (US)

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March 2 - 8, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Mexico tops the World’s Best Places To Retire In 2017 list

The sum

of my parts

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or just over a quarter of a century, International Living has ranked, rated, and named the best retirement destinations in the world. Each year we’ve refined and improved the process, bringing new categories and considerations into play, gathering new data, and asking more and better questions of a greater number of expats.

We’ve added countries to the shortlist as they moved into the limelight, Malaysia in 2000…

Colombia in 2007…and let others drop away. But the winner this year has been constant. For the past 14 years, this country has consistently ranked in the top 10 retirement destinations on the planet.

And—for the fifth time—it takes the top spot once again in our Annual Global Retirement Index.

Mexico has always offered arguably the easiest transition to expat life around: Low-cost, conveniently close, friendly locals and plenty of expats—Mexico offers an appealing balance of exotic foreign culture and familiar First-World lifestyle.

Over recent years, crime and insecurity across the border have made headlines—and yes, there are parts of Mexico we don’t recommend. But this is a big country… and while the mainstream media may bash Mexico, we’ve actually noticed a trend of people gravitating there. Seasoned expats, folks who have lived in countries like Costa Rica, Ecuador, and Belize, are moving to Mexico.

After all, there’s a reason over 1 million Americans call Mexico home. The cost of living is great— expats report living well for as little as $1,200 a month—and has gotten even better with the weakening of the peso against the dollar in recent years.

Your dollars now buy nearly 50% more pesos than they did just a few short years ago. The weak peso also means you can pick up greatvalue real estate (to buy or rent) for even less than you could a few years ago—an apartment that cost $1,300 to rent in 2014 costs $980 now. Those dollars also go even further when it comes to Mexican healthcare. You can get healthcare that’s even better quality than what you’re used to and for one half to one third the price to boot.

English is widely spoken in popular expat spots like Lake

by Virginia Fox

vfox650@gmail.com

Virginia Fox is a Writer, Performer, Producer and Storyteller. Her free flying fictional stories share a slice of life with a humorous twist. She is currently working on an anthology of her fondest memories, “Moon Lady’s Wild Rides.”

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Chapala and the Puerto Vallarta.

This makes it easy for you to fit right in. And heck, you can drive down, or fly home for as little as $200 round-trip—so getting home is convenient.

This proximity also makes it an ideal destination for snowbird living, perfect for escaping from the worst of the winter weather. And the diverse selection of climates spread out across this massive country, ranging from hot weather on the beach to spring-like in the highlands, means you’re guaranteed to find weather that’s perfect for you.

“The cost of living in Mexico allows me to live a fun life on my Social Security check,” says San Francisco-native Jack Bramy.

Living half a block from the beach in Puerto Vallarta, Jack’s not scrimping. “There are great restaurants and tons of cool bars on the malecón (promenade).

My rent is $575 a month for a two-bedroom apartment with a great modern bathroom and nice kitchen.”

If you prefer to live in the Colonial Highlands, there are the picturesque historic towns like San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato, and Ajijic on Lake Chapala.

After you become a legal resident of Mexico, which is quite easy to qualify for, you can also take advantage of its retiree benefits.

Those over 60 get discounts on airline and bus tickets, medical care, museum entrance fees, and

much more.

If you acquire official residence in Mexico, you can get an INAPAM Card—and all the discounts that come with it. These can range from 5% up to 50%. And recent changes in the law now provide an easier and faster path than ever to permanent Mexican residence.

Most retirees qualify for residence by showing they have the funds to support themselves. And— also unusually—Mexico gives you two ways to qualify. You can show monthly income from Social Security or a pension. Alternatively, you can use assets, such as funds in a savings or investment account, to qualify. You don’t need to transfer these assets to Mexico; you only need to prove that you have them.

“Life here is easy and relaxed,” says IL Mexico editor Glynna Prentice. “And also rich and complex in sensations and experiences.

People are friendly and welcoming, their warmth as genuine as the Mexican sun. And roots are deep.

“Whether you’re looking at the mighty ruins of Teotihuacan, the face of a local Maya vendor, or the cool patio of a Spanish colonial hacienda, you sense a depth of history and tradition around you.

“Mexico isn’t perfect—no place is. But its flaws pale when weighed against the vividness of life here.”

Other countries in the top ten include: 10. Malta 9. Portugal 8.

Nicaragua 7. Spain 6. Malaysia 5.

Colombia 4. Costa Rica 3. Ecuador and Panama at number two.

tress washes over me like a crashing wave. It must be the uneven sidewalks! My face is morphing into my mother’s. It must be the humidity! There isn’t a week I don’t notice changes, along with the annoying appearance of hidden personalities, popping up like ants on a picnic table. Giving them names I hope I’ll tame their behavior. After all I’m in Vallarta where the biggest stress is where to make a dinner reservation.

Bitch Betty “I guess you’re changing our decision,” Calm Cal, my husband, quips not bothering to mask his irritation. “We agreed we would each get one half of one suitcase.

I thought we were travelling light?” he adds.

“This IS light,” I retort.

“Really? And what are these other bags? We’re going for six nights, not six months,” he shakes his head.

Packing for any trip these days is a nightmare. I never know what clothes to bring and the thought of forgetting a vital cosmetic makes me cringe. “What happened to the old days when we’d throw a few clothes in shared bags and take off leaving a few things behind?” he asks.

“Those days are gone,” I hiss through gritted teeth, not wanting to address my new fears hiding behind my joyful mask.

“What’s in those bags?” he asks.

Big mistake.

“Do I have to tell you everything?”

I bark in a voice I don’t recognize.

Cal turns and abruptly leaves the room.

“Where are you going? I want to answer,” I bark. “Oh no. You’re prickly and you’ve got on that mean face.”

“But you said I was beautiful last night,” I try, but he’s run into the next room. This faceoff is not our usual behavior. We get awards for the happiest couple, not ‘biggest bickersons.’ I’m not an

undiagnosed woman with personality disorders and I’m generally fun loving and carefree. (Just ask me!) But in my new normal of angst and mood swings, Bitch Betty and other personalities pop out of my unfiltered mouth with no event invitations. I’m stressing about what to wear on a romantic trip down the coast of Banderas Bay? We’ll be sharing the pool bar with flip flops and five dollar sarongs, not European trend setters. The romance better start right now or I’ll have to find it inside a novel.

“So sorry,” I say, giving Cal a hug. “It wasn’t me,” shoving Bitch Betty down inside and putting a wine cork into her mouth.

Ditzy Daisy My cousin’s annual visit with her boyfriend, Sam, couldn’t have gone better and the unpredictable didn’t matter. Like the drenching rain in the middle of their walk to Las Animas which they’d laughingly survived.

I looked around the house putting things back in order (moving piles from one chair to another), discovering a bunch of men’s undies in the dryer. Cal is not a white Jockey kind of guy (I’ll leave it at that for once respecting his privacy.) The briefs clearly belonged to Sam. “You won’t believe what you forgot,” I laugh calling Diana to tell her my discovery.

“I’m folding Sam’s undies which I’ve never done before for anyone. I don’t even do laundry,” I add. They were staying two more days in the Marina and we’d coordinate lunch with my orthopedic doctor’s appointment. Fifteen minutes after getting into a taxi, I realize I have forgotten the reason we were meeting which was the bag of underwear sitting on the sofa in plain sight, so I wouldn’t miss it. We turn around, I get the lovely bag, and we start out. We race to the hospital where I think the doctor is located and soon realize this is where we went for an MRI, not at all where his office is based. Hailing another taxi, we get

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March 2 - 8, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Hola,

Normal

By Molly Williams http://inmylifebymolly.blogspot.com/

T to AmeriMed, a new sign replacing it with “Hospiten.” Sorry I’m late,” I say to the welcoming receptionist apologizing for my fifteen-minute late arrival.

“Excuse me, Senora, you’re not fifteen minutes late, your appointment was last Friday. Of course, it isn’t my fault, and I silently blame it on hospital changes and another invader – Ditzy Daisy.

I’ve been called “ditzy” and “fluffy” by my closest friends, abusive terms I ignore. But I’m feeling invaded by that ditzy spaced out presence. We head to La Rosa restaurant where there’s no sign of Diana or Sam. Twenty minutes later and a strawberry daiquiri half inhaled, I text, “Where are you?”

“At Taco Tommy’s where we agreed,” she writes back.

“Seriously?” asks Cal stopping himself from finishing his thoughts out loud. “What’s happening?”

“Just one of those ditzy kinds of days,” I say. “Not my fault.”

Nervous Nellie I never thought I’d have to battle myself internally with a new conflict between love and fear of performing. As my engine revs up at the thought of entertaining an audience, I’m overcome by the “what ifs,” those insidious fears based on insecurities. (FEAR: False evidence appearing real.)

“What time is Clark picking us up?”

Cal asks about our ride to the show.

“Two fifteen, but I’ve got to start getting ready now,” I say feeling my stomach beginning to churn.”

“It’s only noon,” he says. “You’re not singing a solo or playing a character with special makeup.

You’re in a chorus.

No lines to memorize. “All eyes may not be on you,” he wants to add, but slips in his filter. “What takes you so long?” Thirty minutes

later, I am still doing my makeup.

That’s when Nervous Nellie appears poking me with her “what ifs.”

What if I trip getting onstage?

What I if can’t find my Alto note?

What if my dry eyes get dryer in the middle of a medley and I can’t see the music. I squeeze drops of Refresh Advanced into my eyes.

What if my sinus starts running down the back of my throat? I grab my saline spray, squirting it into my nostrils which drip down my cheeks. I glance at the make up checklist.

“Your features can disappear in the stage lights,” advises Rita, once a professional dancer, who made a career in baubles and ball gowns.

“Exaggerate your make up,” she says, which is music to my ears. I paint Color Me Red on my lips, a bright color Rita suggests. I like the way she thinks. Looking like a streetwalker is much more appealing than Birkenstocks and a makeup less hike. I pat on my foundation with a spatula, having given up my brush for increased coverage.

Outlining my lips with strokes of liner crossing facial crevices, I’m seeing my mother in the mirror.

“Check me please,” I ask Cal, smiling widely to reveal any red lipstick on my front teeth.

We gather for our warm up, “Calm down, girl,” I whisper to Nervous Nellie stuffing her deep inside. The Boutique Theatre audience enthusiastically applauds the chorus walking onstage, squashing unfounded fears and reminding us why we love Vallarta audiences.

For today I’m keeping a tight leash on Bitch Betty, Ditzy Daisy and Nervous Nellie.

A new family … a new normal…. a new chapter.

his year, I really can’t wait to be here. I know I say that every winter, when my skin is paler than the snow before we drive on it and mush it into ugliness, and the mornings are dreary without birdsong. But this last year has been particularly bleak. If the months prior to November were filled with rancor and anxiety, the months since have been one long study in continental disbelief, punctuated by outbursts of horrified incredulity tinged with panic.

Of course I don’t speak for everyone, and I understand many don’t share my views, but this year it does seem as though the political process has involved just about all of us here; it has been nearly unavoidable, and inescapable, at work, at home, in social situations.

I have friends who won’t watch the news out of fear of what may happen next, and others who can’t look away for the same reason. On both sides of the spectrum, ranges of emotion rarely before displayed in my beloved and extraordinary land of the free are bouncing off the scales.

And when I am oh, so fed up with it all, I turn to a wonderful FB page I discovered a year or so ago, where nothing ever changes. On it, delightful friends and locals in Puerto Vallarta exchange sunset

pictures, post notices about where to find the most delicioso tres leche cake in Old Town, search for a lost doggie, advise as to the recent changes in taxi fares from the airport so new arrivals will be informed, and generally make life here in our little paradise just that little bit more perfect. There is a continuing search for the perfect table for the balcony. Often people are trying to find an affordable short term rental (me too! So I dream along with those posters.) Politics is strictly forbidden (heaven!) and as it is a private page, anyone being too negative is booted. Would that I could do that in my real life!

This site makes me happy, when I am away from PV. It reminds me of the people here, the sounds, the aromas, even.

Frequently someone has found a wallet or a camera, or lost one, and voila, it is returned intact. Really?

Only in PV, honest cabbies.

I could take a slice out of it from last year, or the year before, and it would be the same. That is my tonic. It makes the news fade, the daily onslaught of yuck feel so far away and unnecessary.

Refresh my soul, oh continuity of normalcy!

I know that when I arrive smiles, kindness, generosity and humor will greet me. The ugliness of the north will go to its corner, and it can sulk, forgotten in its own lonely company, while I enjoy discovering a new restaurant that our friend Jose Luis suggests or wander safely through a neighborhood I haven’t seen before. Thank you, Puerto Vallarta, for being the same, for welcoming me, for the eternity of the beach and the cobblestones, and the friendliness of your people, and for letting me know that you understand I don’t share the mean-spirited rhetoric coming from others’ mouths.

Connections among people and between cultures are what will move us forward, not building obstacles between us. Relationships are threads woven one at a time, little by little, until we are all interconnected into a colorful patchwork. So for this year again, Puerto Vallarta, and this year more than ever, hola, and gracias for your friendship. I am a semi-retired history teacher, a part-time lawyer, an optimistic writer, a contented wife, a forever mom, and a joyous and open-eyed traveler.

Alegre Tours Alegre Tours Calendar:

September 29-October 09-2017 Argentina/ Buenos Aires/IguazuFalld /Mendoza Wine Country November 04-11-2017 Cuba Havana and Varadero Beach November 28-December 05-2017 Mexico City Mexico City/Cernavaca/Valle de Bravo/Xochimilco December 15-2017 Mascota/Talpa January 13-19-2018 Guanajuato/San Miguel/Leon February 12-15-2018 Tonala Original Special “Shop Till You Drop” Tour Visit Tonala Marketplace and Furniture Expo March 17-24-2018 Merida/Chichen Itza/Becal

Reservations & Information: Roberta Valdez rvaldez714@hotmail.com 951.760.1068

08

events Galleria Dante Presents 3 International Artists, March, 10th 2017

March 2 - 8, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

They will exhibits their new works at the very well known Galleria Dante, on Basilio Badillo, Cocktail 6 – 10 pm

Israel ZZepda

Yvan Genest

Jean Gabriel Lambert

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t only 46, Israel Zzepda has already been a professional artist for more than half his life. He has been painting and drawing for more than 30 years, but also sculpts. Israel’s body of work is remarkably large given his age, but when you consider he became an apprentice at the age of 15 and a full-time art teacher at the age of 19, it isn’t so surprising. He taught both art and fashion illustration for more than 13 years, and, as a teacher, he has influenced many young artists, including several members of his own family.

There is a sensitivity, innocence and refined discipline about Israel. His work explores religious, spiritual, sexual and existential realms, reflecting truths and questioning established thinking, and he is not afraid to express himself. “The artist is a reflection of daily life. I want to be a chronicle of my time,” says Zzepda, who seeks to reflect his own unique style and honesty in all of his work.

The viewer cannot help but be drawn in and intrigued by the thematic contents of his paintings. Some of his works appear to be recreating ambiguous and mysterious worlds often made up of strange, desolate environments while others display serene, sometimes humorous, eroticism. He also embraces notoriously religious topics, as well as ontological and metaphysical subjects.

Israel has also painted more than 1000 meters of murals, both public and private, in Cancun, Uruapan, Michoacán and Jalisco. In addition, he completed 7 murals in Sardinia, Italy, in 2011. He also participated in a collective show in Turin, Italy, on March 15th, 2014.

Every 6 months the gallery receives new works that over reach our wildest expectations. There can be no certainty without uncertainty or light without the comparison of darkness. We are in this daily cycle of self-destruction and self-reinvention.

All ideas had the challenge of constructing themselves in the experience of memory without using a single model.”

This latest exhibit is primarily sculpture. Technically almost all of this work was modeled in styrofoam in order to recycle and give a transformation to the material- then it is transformed into aluminum, so most of the pieces are a variation of textures of their original stock.

Colours, movement, depth, light and colours again: Jean-Gabriel’s paintings are thrilling and explosive.

J

ean Gabriel Lambert recalls the work of the late, great Quebecois automatiste Paul Emile Borduas. Strong rear, middle and foregrounds create a sense of luminous trajectory, echoing the paths of light that are reminiscent and informed by the artist’s training in direction, dance and action.

His canvases weave intimate stories with universal ideals, where the turbulence of the contemporary moment is actualized among the echoes of chaos.

Using paint aggressively, his layering is dense and evocative of a long tradition of modernist abstraction.

Inspired by the light and color found in nature, his work seeks to capture the spectacular.

Colours, movement, depth, light and colours again: Jean-Gabriel’s paintings are thrilling and explosive.

From his first ink and pastel scribbles to his most recent acrylic canvases, this artist is telling us a story that has begun more than two decades ago.

A self-taught painter, Jean-Gabriel first studied Pharmacy. He then enrolled in theater school upon earning his degree. Jean-Gabriel has performed on stage and has also starred in a few movies. He later added singing to his artistic accomplishments.

Driven by an irrepressible desire to create, it’s finally in the visual arts that Jean-Gabriel finds his true passion. Drawing and painting opened up the possibility for an unimpeded daily practice: it’s this great freedom that Jean-Gabriel has long sought.

From the moment that he began painting, he knew that he’d pursue this endeavour for the rest of his life.

Since 2000 Jean-Gabriel has been represented by several art galleries in Mexico and Canada.

He enjoys meeting people and sharing with them.

"Love that we never tire of", says the artist, enriched from these exchanges.

T

his show presents Yvan Genest’s newest series of paintings, which captivate the viewer by combining collage-like additions such as pages from his own sketch books and contemporary images of everyday modern objects, with abstract icons, symbols and even words. “I want to create an explosion—to combine an old-time feeling with a contemporary perception in a way that surprises people, speaks to their subconscious, moves them to emotion and creates a new space for imagination,” says Yvan.

Yvan's deep artistic drive and remarkable imagination have propelled him to a fertile, prolific careeras an artist spanning more than 30 years. Since his first watercolors, sold door-todoor in his native Montreal decades ago, Yvan has painted and exhibited in many cities (Paris, Toronto, Seattle, Los Angeles and San Miguel de Allende, among others), while building his unique iconography. He has created thousands of original paintings, drawings, watercolors, pastels, etchings, engravings and digital works that have found collectors internationally.

Since coming to Vallarta in the mid ‘90s, this prolific painter has been a major figure on the Vallarta art scene. His extensive experiences with different cities, people and customs are reflected in his distinctive iconography, like airplanes, hearts, skulls, wires, hands and so many more. With his light, luminous and eye-catching colors, his imaginative forms and figures, Yvan Genest brings to life a fascinating world that dives into our own. His paintings are bright and cheerful, combining a sense of freedom and fun.

While greatly influenced in his early stages by many great painters including Francis Bacon, Picasso and Chagall, Yvan also admires several contemporary artists who share in common a high level of innovation and a deep, spiritual sense of humanity. “Each artist who creates a new language is bringing a contribution to art history—new ways to say and see things. This is what I think I am doing.”

Crowdfunding campaign now underway to create art book GENEST 3 Decades!

To celebrate his 30 years of non-stop creation, Yvan Genest wants to publish a limited edition high-quality illustrated art book, GENEST 3 Decades, featuring hundreds of photos and text about his works.

YOU can help give life to this beautiful book.

Yvan invites his friends and collectors to help him raise CAD $50,000 (about US $38,000) to finance the book’s production through a month-long crowdfunding campaign that’s on NOW. From February 14 to March 21, you can pledge to pre-order the book and obtain beautiful rewards, simply by clicking on the link found at www.yvangenest.com.

Olas Altas Farmers’ Market

Tamale Gourmet-The Best Tamales Meet Erik Fulfer, Doctor of Chiropractic

in Town

time, in March of 2000.

by Mary Stehley

By Adriana Basail Erik successfully passed ou wouldn’t normally expect to find a chiro- all four parts of the National he first time I tried a tamale I didn’t practor at a farmer’s Board of Chiropractic Exams like it. Something was wrong. It market but for the past six as well as the Physiotherapy was pure corn dough with very years Erik Fulfer, DC has exam. He spent the next little filling. They had it backwards. The been providing his services nine years in Atlanta gaining filling was the good part. Then, I tried a as a chiropractor at the Olas experience as an Associate tamale made by Adrian Basail of Tamale DC, Clinic Director and Altas Farmers Market.

Gourmet in the Olas Altas Farmers Dr. Fulfer followed in owner. In 2010, he followed Market and I said, ‘Finally! A tamale his grandfather’s footsteps his dream to practice in a with lots of filling and very little dough.” who first served in WWII foreign country and along -Loyal customer. and went on to chiropractic with his wife Michelle and in Bucerias. To schedule steps away from the famous Meet Adriana created my first anisette sweet tamale. I Larger orders can be delivered. Contact school in the 1950s. Erik their daughter Sofia, moved an appointment in PV call Los Muertos Beach. You adrianabasail@gmail.com, I was living in San Pancho, Riviera was in business! instru(044) 322-182-5045 or can also find musical322-779was honorably discharged to Puerto Vallarta.

8037 alsomeat sells Nayarit, when the 2009 recession hit.

I spend hours pairing the best ingrements, soaps,Adrian jewelry, bahiachiro@gmail.or 322-224-1671.

He now operates Puerto email from the U.S. Army in 1994 at the Sunday market in La Cruz.

To earn extra money, I sold homemade dients--curry, lentils, carrots, plantain, after serving four years in Vallarta’s only mobile chiro- com and in Bucerias (044) pies, clothes, sprouts, nut The Olas Altas Farmers’ foods.

Market muffins andAirborne pizzas. Division practic service. raisins, On coconut, cilantro,or email butters and fermented 322-180-7393 Tues- peanuts, the 82nd offers 90 booths of “Handmade and I had never made nor watched spinach, pine nut, portobello, red roasted We’re open from 9:30 and the 508th Airborne days and Thursdays from megachiropractic@gmail.

Homegrown” products such as tamales, someone prepare a tamale (the indibell pepper, farmers cheese, black 8:30 to 6:00 he brings 17 com Website: http://www. to 2:00 pm every Saturday Battalion. cream, paella, zucchini, eggplant, tacos, homemade genous word forhis “wrap”), and of beans, from theicefirst Saturday bahiachiropractic.com years experience into poblano, After Náhuatl Erik earned pizza, baked goods, soaps, jewellery, basil, gouda and goat cheese, mahihonestly, had never been fond of them.

The Olas Altas Farmers in November to the last undergraduate degree the comfort of your home, nut butters and fermented foods. We’re mahi, dill,He capers, chocolate tamalesonare fromresort in April.

Market offers 90 booths of Saturday office, or spa. also almonds, withTraditional an emphasis themade We’re open from 9:30 to 2:00 every and cranberries.

I even have vegan masa (corn dough), lard and skimpy Lazaro sciences in preparation serves the north side of the “Handmade and Home- located in the Saturday from the first Saturday gourmet tamales! portions of varied ingredients. for chiropractic school, he bay on Mondays, Wednes- grown” goodies as well as Cárdenas Park in Vallarta’sin November to the lastZapata Saturdayneighborin April in Tamale is available Since I’m anLife advocate healthy foodsfor such as Emiliano and Fridays fromGourmet 9 to prepared graduated from Univer-for days the Lazaro Cárdenas Park in Vallarta’s catering small events, 24-300 tamales, eating, I played with ingredients, incluan sity School of Chiropractic 1 and 2 to 5 from his office tamales, tacos, homemade hood. For only 14 pesos Emiliano Zapata neighbourhood.

For by ordering five days in advance.

Small ding freshly milled masa, butter and in Marietta, Georgia, the conveniently located inside ice cream, paella, pizza, hour, you can park in the only 14 pesos an hour, you can park orders can be picked up on Saturdays olive oil.

I used less dough, no lard and largest chiropractic insti- the Mega across from the Italian sausage and pasta garage directly beneath thein thejust garagepark. directly beneath the park.

(9:30-2)and through April 29. all more a few weeks, I had at the baked goods, Flamingos Golfmarket Course tution filling. in the Within country at the

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s Alta rket Olas ers’ Ma ZA RAN R Farm A C US VEN

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AD IO B

IGNACIO L. VALLARTA

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PINO SUAREZ

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Located in Park Lazaro Cardenas, Old Town in Puerto Vallarta. Find us on Facebook at Olas Altas Farmers Market.

@

Basilio Badillo 326 Old Town, Puerto Vallarta 322.223.3889 www.banderassoapblends.com

Tel: (322) 159-6649 tu_postre@yahoo.com

Cakes, cookies, sweet breads, sticky buns, etc.

We make gluten free and sugar free items too!

Pasteleria y Reposteria/Bakery

Cell. 322 134 4162 MEXICO, (952) 583 0329 USA & CANADA info@muchococo.com www.muchococo.com

Heriberto Saucedo Pérez Artista Diseñador Cel. 3222.190 56 32 Fb: Heriko Joyeria herikojoyeria@hotmail.com Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

local

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Paradise

Comings and Goings

and Parenting

Marcia Blondin

Leza Warkentin

marciavallarta@gmail.com

mommyinmexico.wordpress.com

Vallarta Visitors

I

t’s marvelous to have visitors when they are important parts of your life no matter where you live.

And it’s wonderful to watch them love Vallarta for all the reasons you love it too.

In early 2000, I attended a job fair in Kingston Ontario specifically for finding a teaching job overseas.

I interviewed with several international schools around the world. I received a few job offers with hiring packages that looked pretty good to a young teacher, but none drew me in as much as did the American School of Puerto Vallarta. In relation to other schools around the world, it’s a fairly small school community, but what it offers in way of quality of life was nearly incomparable.

One of the biggest draws to me was the fact that it was easily accessible to family and friends who want to visit. I was concerned about being lonely for my homeland and didn’t want to go anywhere where it would be both too far and too costly for loved ones to come and spend a week or two.

I made a great choice with Vallarta, because it’s been pretty easy to convince people to shell out for the plane ticket to come see me next to a backdrop of palm trees and sandy beaches.

I categorize my visitors into two major groups. The first group would come and see me no matter where I lived. They love me, they miss me, and they would sit in a snow bank on the edge of the Arctic Circle with me, picking out ash from their Earl Grey tea because the water was heated over an open fire.

I spent two years as a teacher on a First Nations reservation in a fly-in only island in Northern Manitoba, and I had a few visitors who braved the slightly sketchy flight and isolating experience in order to see my face. They certainly didn’t come because of the constant activity, unless they were secretly addicted to the bingo at the local community center. It definitely was not the balmy weather, since it would reach -60 with the wind chill some nights. This is a very small, very tough group of

March 2 - 8, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

people that has earned a permanent place in Casa Leza whenever they need a tropical getaway.

The other group is large, and wonderful, and quite glad I live in Vallarta. This group loves both Vallarta and me.

They are so happy I live here, because they enjoy Mexico and think it’s great that I’m now part of the package. I don’t know how you feel about having visitors, but for me, watching people have a great time in your town kind of makes you remember why you chose to live there in the first place.

A great big bunch of my uncles and aunts rented a house two doors down from me this past month. My parents are currently living with us, and a couple of other friends came to visit too. Watching them troop home from the bus after a busy day of whale-watching, hiking near Casa Kimberly, or dancing to my husband’s music at El Rio BBQ, I feel a sense of satisfaction that my visitors have been so well-entertained in my beloved Banderas Bay. They have converted the front patio of the normally empty house into a lawnchair-littered, friendly party terrace, and their laughter drifts into our windows every evening. It makes me smile, because I remember being a little girl in pink footy pajamas, hearing the same laughter around the campfire at night as I lay tucked into bed in our camper trailer, cousins in a deep sleep beside me, after a long day of getting into as much mischief as could be managed.

Nowadays the mischief isn’t mine, because I’ll be getting up early to get ready for work, and the uncles will still be sleeping until it’s time to wake up for the San Sebastian tour bus. But it’s nice to know that they’ll be here when I get home, laughing the way they did around a campfire in another time and place.

It’s marvelous to have visitors when they are important parts of your life no matter where you live.

And it’s wonderful to watch them love Vallarta for all the reasons you love it too.

Comings…

Riverfest: pre, during and after; it is all about El Rio BBQ-Bar giving back big time. Everybody wins and has so much fun; it is the most delightful (now threeday event) fundraiser of the year.

Period. Take the bus (please) or a taxi, parking is insane and there will be lots of alcohol involved, so leave your car at home. Bring lots of cash, please. There are raffles that generate a lot of money with a 50/50 split; there are things to buy; haircuts to be had by Maestro Alex Daoud who donates 100% of his sales to Pasito de Luz for which this entire shindig is all about. Riverfest starts Friday, March 3; main event (tons of live music/dancing/eating) is Saturday; and a very cool Sunday, March 5, wind-down featuring mariachi and Los Bambinos in concert and El Rio’s fabulous buffet. Take bug spray, no car, much cash and be prepared to happily stand in line; it’s all for a great cause: Pasitos de Luz. Still at El Rio – the Tribute to Johnny Cash takes place Monday, March 6. Philip Bauer hails originally from Oklahoma and is presenting his direct-from-

Las Vegas tribute to the Man in Black for the first time in Mexico.

This concert I hope to see earlier (March 2) in Bucerias at the Luna Lounge.

I am at Incanto for the IAMPV (Instituto de Artes Musicales Puerto Vallarta) Fundraiser that begins at 5:30 pm on the patio featuring the Student String Quartet warming up the audience for Cellist Donald Moline.

(Please see my article about Donald in this issue!).This concert will be held March 6 in the piano bar at Incanto and features pianist Jean-Guy Comeau accompanist to Sr. Moline.

Still at Incanto – Geo and Lobo for their second performance at 7pm on Tuesday, the 7th.

On the 9th, the Sheraton Hotel will host a fundraiser – Que Viva el Canto - for the Los Mangos Library with opera stars Yael Jimenez, soprano, and Jose Maria Aguirre, tenor. Hector Acosta will accompany the duo on piano.

The program consists of more than operatic arias, so go and support our one and only library that functions solely because of YOU!

And Goings…

I saw Dave LaFame’s Tribute to Tom Jones last season at El Rio BBQ-Bar and fully expected to be wowed once again by Dave’s amazing, powerful voice and his fun, sexy, very Tom Jones-style.

He actually made the show better than last year! He added anecdotes about each song and a couple of jokes that had everyone howling with laughter. Truly a flawless, enjoyable performance. The dance floor was full by the end of the second song and before the night was over, Tom Jones introduced a contemporary of his – Mr. Bobby Darin, who performed (perhaps) his most famous song “Mack the Knife”. I have to admit I had to close my eyes…Bobby Darin was great but he never had the um, impact, shall we say, that Tom Jones did on stage! It was a lovely addition to the show, Dave and thank you for thanking Julio Angeles who, as sound and light man for Trend Entertainment, makes sure the show will go on with or without power (Thanks for the generator, Kurt!!)

ADORABLE DOG IN THE SPOTLIGHT...

AMIGO

by Janice Gonzalez

A

migo earned his name by being the sweetest and best buddy ever! He is a Labrador mix about a year and a half old and 38 pounds. Amigo just loves to play with other dogs but he’s not a big fan of felines.

He is quite social so will enjoy walks around the neighborhood and visiting with friends both 2-legged and 4-legged. Amigo has been neutered, dewormed and fully vaccinated.

If you are looking for the perfect young boy to welcome into your heart and home, consider adopting sweet Amigo. Contact us at spcapv@gmail.com for an application.

11

local

Que Paso at UDG CUC

Michael Nolan

104.3wakeupshow@gmail.com

Michael Nolen is the host of ‘The Good Morning Wake Up Show,’ which is broadcast as part of the University of Guadalajara’s 104.3 FM radio station at the CUC campus in Puerto Vallarta. Every Saturday at 9 AM And a reception will follow. This event is free and open to the public.

Please attend.

D

r. Marco Antonio Cortés Guardado will give his State of The University speech this Friday, March 3 at 5 pm in the main audiotorium at the UdG CUC campus. After a short introduction Dr. Cortes will give a talk followed by a film about the UDG / CUC

Poetry Contest Announced Letras Saladas This is a call to residents of Puerto Vallarta who write poetry to participate in the: “First contest of Letras Saladas” The following conditions will apply: All poets, 15 years or older who reside in the municipalities of Bahía de Banderas, Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco are eligible to participate.

Contestants must submit poems that are original and unpublished.

There is no specific format.

Contestants must submit a minimum of 3 poems and may submit a maximum of 5 (in which there must be a minimum of 50

lines in the total of 3 poems and a maximum of 100 lines over the 5).

One submitted document will contain the poems and the pseudonym of the author.

A separate document will need to be included that contains personal data and contact information, namely: first name, surname, address, email address and contact.

All poems must be submitted by email.

The email address is: contactoruta@gmail.com. The deadline for submissions will be midnight on March 19.

On March 20 poems will be published on the website: ruta383vallarta.com with the intention of having readers participate in the voting system in order to choose the first twenty.

The vote will take place from March 20 until midnight on April 1, 2017. The first twenty places will be chosen by popular vote and a jury will choose the first three places from that twenty.

The jury will consist of local personalities from the world of literature and culture, and its ruling will be final. The results of the contest will be published on April 10 at the site: ruta383vallarta.com.

The first three placegetters will be recognized for their work and an invitation will be given for them to read their poems at the recital Gala Inaugural del Encuentro Internacional de Poetas y el Arte Letras en la Mar, on April 26 at 20:00 hrs. at Los Arcos on the Malecon in the presence of authorities from the University of Guadalajara and local cultural authorities.

The winning poets will be considered guests of honor.

The first prize of $3,000.00 (three thousand pesos in cash) will be presented.

March 2 - 8, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

From Here Marcia Blondin

marciavallarta@gmail.com

I

was talking to Kurt Sinner, owner of El Rio BBQ-Bar last night about last week’s fundraising Chili Cook Off. Easily more than 500 people enjoyed music and food and Hollis’s smoked ribs…hundreds and hundreds of ribs were consumed!

Back-to-back weekends of altruism – last week’s chili extravaganza for the American Legion and this coming three days of Riverfest for Pasitos de Luz… Little Steps of Light. Dozens of people come together to work towards a singular goal in putting together this entertainment extravaganza…while concurrently trying to live normal lives and do their own work. Volunteers amaze me and we are blessed to have people like Barb Bremner, Kurt and Hollis with their amazing staff and all the good people they gather together to put on these great shows that fundraise for those who cannot make it themselves. My deepest appreciation

for all - that all - of you, do.

While I am thanking people for their kindnesses, I have to add Tracy Parks to the list. Last week, Tracy opened Incanto to the Puerto Vallarta Garden Club for their monthly meet-and-greet and also to unveil the project for revitalizing the ‘Pier Street’ a.k.a.

Calle Francisca Rodriguez. Not only did Tracy open up the theatre for the video presentation, he also had his chef create complimentary, delicious hors d’oeuvres that his staff served table to table.

Tracy and staff will be hosting the fundraiser for IAMPV (Instituto de Artes Musicales Puerto Vallarta), Monday, March 6. This very important event features Chicago Symphony Orchestra First Cellist Donald Moline who I have written about in this issue.

Please come if there are tickets available; it will be a once-only affair.

With Dvorak and Couperin in my ears, that is it From Here.

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. You can learn more about the SPCA Puerto Vallarta by checking us out at www.spcapv. com/home or on Facebook.

SPCA of Puerto Vallarta

By Janice Gonzalez e got this report from Mark McCoy at the farmers market: “The SPCA thanks Dave and Pat for collecting $2000 pesos in donations while working on their tan at the beach in Puerto Vallarta. At the Farmer’s Market we are also welcoming the weather transition from winter to summer. With the increase in temperature comes the increase in demand for a cold bottle of water, which we just happen to sell. Not only do we sell water for four times what it costs us at Costco but many of our customer’s

W

tell us to keep the change as a donation. We have had more than one visitor give us a $200 peso bill for a $10 peso bottle of water and when we proceed to go thru our zip lock of peso coins, looking for $180 pesos in change, the customer sometimes tells us to just “keep the change.”

Thanks go to our very busy volunteers Doreen and Michelle who spent last Saturday as volunteers at the Olas Altas Farmer’s Market.” Thanks for the report Mark.

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.

real estate

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March 2 - 8, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Featured Property of the Week

El Ejido

Authentic Mexican Charm in the heart of Vallarta Quinta Krystal 4 bed, 5 bath, 3,733 sq. ft. $439,000 USD

Roberto Ortiz de Montellano Farias roberto@ortizdemontellano.com

Roberto Ortiz de Montellano is a Mexican-Licensed Attorney at Law with over twenty years of professional legal experience. He started his own practice in Puerto Vallarta two years ago. His areas of expertise focuses primarily on Real Estate Law, Business Law and Estate Planning. www. ortizdemontellano.com Ejido: are you buying property that is no man’s land?

In Mexico we have a saying: “Lo barato sale caro”, which would translate into “What is cheap in the end will be expensive”. When shopping, we all want to make the best use of our money and get bargains, even in real estate deals. But what happens if you are buying property in Mexico and you are offered a bargain?

Perhaps a piece of land that eventually will be worth much more but is “Ejido”? In this case, you should consider really carefully paying any money to the seller, since it is likely you will never get title.

What is Ejido?

Ejido land comprises a high percentage of the total Mexican territory and there are certain limitations applicable when acquiring this type of land that can disrupt your purchase process and put your investment at risk.

The main aspects you should be aware of when planning to purchase ejido land, are the following: • Ejido land is not private property, which means that it cannot be purchased freely through direct title. The ejido legal system was created for agricultural

purposes and is a type of “communal ownership”, where the members of the ejido own rights of use (and not direct title) over an undetermined part of the total area of the ejido.

• Ejido rights can be subject to purchase and transfer, however this can only take place between members of the ejido. Non-Mexican residents cannot be members of the ejido.

How can I acquire land that is Ejido?

Ejido land can be transformed into private property and then sold to any individual who is not a member of the ejido, either national or foreign.

This process is commonly known as “regularization” and must meet many legal requirements. The regularization of ejido land can take months and in some cases, years. Once the regularization process is concluded, you may acquire (through a land trust) the piece of property you are being offered to purchase.

You should keep in mind that acquiring Ejido under the name of a Mexican national in order to get your way around the regularization process and the Fideicomiso, will put your investment at risk since you will have absolutely no legal rights over the property, and yes, you might get a bargain but in the end you run the risk of never getting title.

T

his gorgeous Colonial Style “Quinta” is a rare gem in the heart of the hotel zone.

A lovely courtyard entry and fountain beckons visitors to the stately front door. The serene and elegant living room with beamed ceilings and fireplace open to the specta-

cular outdoor terrace and cobalt blue swimming pool surrounded by tropical gardens. Some other features: Saltillo tile floors, custom cabinetry and ironwork, security system and air conditioning. Just two blocks to a gorgeous sandy beach and equidistant to the main

highway. Offered fully furnished with tropical flair, this is a perfect vacation or retirement home for sophisticated and discerning buyers wanting true “Old-Vallarta” style and modern conveniences. www.boardwalkrealtypv.com/ properties/quinta-krystal/

real estate

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March 2 - 8, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

BEACHFRONT LIVING IN BUCERIAS

PALMAS 11 Now is the time to buy the beachfront property of your dreams!

Now is the time to buy the beachfront property of your dreams!

T

LIMITED LIMITED PRESALE PRESALE DISCOUNT DISCOUNT ON 44 UNITS UNITS ON SAVE SAVE $100,000usd usd $100,000

PALMAS 11 BEACHFRONT CONDOS in BUCERIAS

he newest development about to begin in Bucerias is a beachfront condo project just north of Los Picos and it be using all of nature’s elements as it provides a 6 story, 12 condo unit project with underground parking, two pools, one on the roof and one by the beach, beautiful slate stone rock walls, fountains and patios with artistic Mexican decor everywhere. The two bedroom, two bathroom condos, with overlooking patios to the wonderful ocean views will begin at $399,000 USD, while offering $100,000 savings for the first four lower level condos sold‌ The owners are working with an experienced local builder and architect that is involved with other stunning developments in the area all along the coast.

Construction is slated to begin before the end of the 2017 calendar year.

Rich Barnes, Real Estate Broker/Investor, has been visiting Mexico and the Bucerias area for many years and has developed a true love for this country. Rich married a lady from Mexico City, Elizabeth and together they have a beautiful daughter. Rich is a partner in a Bucerias home, which they renovated and now have for sale. Rich will use his extensive real estate background to help with this team of investor partners. Rich has 35 years of sales with 16 years of broker experience and has sold over 700 homes. Rich has years of experience taking care of people in all walks of life, guaranteeing your trust in who you are dealing with.

Armando Luis Solorio, Bucerias business owner and real estate partner and investor, is the local connection, with his ownership of the SUNSHINE BAR in Bucerias, and local ties, brings the Mexican flavor to the project.

Armando also owns properties in the Bucerias area, bringing a solid background of experience and knowledge to the project. Armando and his family are extremely well received by the locals and also the foreign visitors as a likable and helpful people. Armando recently completed a project that included the first automated car wash to be opened in Puerta Vallarta. He is also the co-creator of Buzo, the diver in the Bucerias Town Plaza. The creative energy and knowledge Armando brings to the project will reverberate in the PALMAS 11 project. Armando goes above and beyond to help his fellow man and this allows him to be the perfect resource when it comes to serving his community and our condo buyers/investors.

Ron Rezash, and with his wife Julie, of 28 years, along with 3 sons, Trevor, who is currently 23, working full time while achieving his MBA at UW Milwaukee, Grant, 21, Milwaukee Firefighter and EMT, and Logan 17, High School National Honor Society, senior, ready to attend college on a baseball/ academic scholarship are excited to be a part of this great new development.

Ron has spent 20 years acquiring and rehabbing properties and currently is part of a company holding millions in real estate in the SE Wisconsin area.

Ron is extremely involved in his community as he was the co-founder of a successful charter school in Milwaukee, IDEAL Charter School, which continues to be a top school in the area. He also was named YMCA Volunteer of the Year twice, while overseeing a very successful not-for-profit organization, the Milwaukee Angels. Ron brings a background to the project that ensures success; he has always shown the ability to go the extra mile in all he chooses to do.

Feel free to contact any of us for questions regarding our wonderful project, condo purchases and/or investment opportunities.

Armando MX cel 322 185-3832 Rich US 414 899-8146 Ron US 414 698-1135

STARTING STARTING AT AT $399,000usd usd $399,000 BED 22 BED BATH 22 BATH 1600sf sf 1600 148sm sm 148

RICH BARNES BROKER-OWNER 414-899-8416 RON REZASH BUILDER-OWNER 414-698-1135 ARMANDO LUIS (MX CELL) 322-185-3832 PALMAS11CONDOS@GMAIL.COM TRUSTED REALTY EXPERTS - 700 HOMES SOLD

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March 2 - 8, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Medical Matters Pam Thompson

pamela@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

Ambulance Observations A few tips and suggestions on emergency services.

W

hen one hears sirens blaring, one knows there is an emergency somewhere (usually, sometimes there is a parade around here).

As I have stated in the past few weeks, we are in the middle of one of our busiest “high seasons” in years. So, statistically there will be more emergencies. More people = more emergencies = more sirens. s anywhere in the world when you have lights flashing and sirens screaming behind you and you are in a vehicle, for goodness sakes, move aside just as soon as you possibly can!

1. What hospital? If you call an ambulance and want to go to a specific hospital (which is your right) but the ambulance refuses

A

or insist on taking you to another facility than you have requested then you must INSIST that they go to the location of your choice. Do not allow an ambulance company to bully you into going somewhere else. Unfortunately, once in a while, this might happen.

2. Is there a cost? If one calls a public service (ie Proteccion Civil, Bomberos) there should never be a charge. Now, I do recommend (if you want) to give them a tip but never should they demand or request a payment. If this happens please contact your consular agent (or you can contact me and I will contact them).

3. Public or private service?

Remember that there is a wide difference in the medical equipment on board a private ambulance and a public ambulance such as a defibrillator, oxygen, and medications. And yes, a private ambulance company will charge the patient (or patient’s family) but that charge should be a reasonable amount for the distance travelled. Request a receipt for the amount you have paid for the services.

4. Have a plan. It is not uncommon, especially if it is in a

larger condo complex for people to get into a panic and several people will call several ambulance numbers. This creates, as you can imagine, a big confusion when five ambulances show up for one person.

Make sure your condo complex/homeowners association has an EMERGENCY PLAN in place with staff and especially security personnel, aware of what number(s) to call and a protocol to use in an emergency. Make

sure the staff is trained properly in CPR and First Aid. We are happy to coordinate an emergency plan specifically for your condo. Even though many of the big complexes are brand new, for some reason they build them so that a gurney does not fit into the elevator. Have you measured your elevator lately?

We hope that one does not need to use any of these services but the reality is, some will.

The more organized people

are the better the emergency personnel can do their job.

Gather information and make a plan. Then, when an emergency occurs, do the best that you can to follow that plan rather than becoming unglued and forgetting everything.

If it means writing it out step by step and putting it in a convenient location, then do that. Again, we are more than happy to sit down with you and help you out!

Here’s to a superb week!

VENECIA 290 COL. DIAZ ORDAZ Fluent English Spoken

Francisco I. Madero # 396 (Corner of Aguacate) Tel. (322) 223 2995 eye-metrics@hotmail.com Col. Emiliano Zapata, Puerto Vallarta, Jal.

Mega Comercial Bucerías 2A (Frente a Cajas) Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit Tel. (329) 298 0760 eye-metrics@prodigy.net.mx

Porcelain veneers, crowns and bridges.

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

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March 2 - 8, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

HUGE San Pancho Community Fair

E

ntreamigos turns 11 years representing a bridge between cultures, providing educational opportunities for kids and families in San Francisco and the region through creativity, consciousness in environmental actions, love and commitment with the community.

On Friday March 3, we will showcase the work we do at Entreamigos: productive workshops, recreational and environmental games, story telling, amongst others. We also are collaborating with different organizations with alike purposes in environmental topics. It will be a representative, artsy and cultural event, with music

and traditional cooking.

Recognized as a CECA by Semarnat: Educational Center with Environmental Consciousnes, Entreamigos administrates several environmental educational programs in the community and through out several public schools in the region. Since 2010, Entreamigos runs the biggest Collection Center in the Nayarit Coast, a citizen initiative. A leader in solidary tourism, with more than 1000 international volunteers every year and the scholarship program benefits the future of more than 85 young students, Entreamigos also hosts a large and beautiful library for kids and adults and free classes

and workshops for all ages.

The theme of this year 9º Festival de Arte Infantil es “Descubre la Feria Ambiental” is because of our commitment and search for creating and augmenting awareness about the importance of taking care of our environment, and how our actions and attitudes can change our daily lives, to promote a healthier, more loving life between ourselves and the world we live in.

Join in an afternoon with discoveries and fun for the entire family, deepening the concept of sustainability and ways of participating to take care of our environment for a more creative, conscious and loving world!

Celebrate Early Murphy’s Hosts Two PreSt. Patty’s Benefit Parties

Article by Stan Francis

Pre-St. Patrick’s Party Wednesday, March 15 Murphy’s is again the place for urphy’s Irish Pub on the Malecon is hosting traditional music and food, 12 to two St. Patrick’s Day 4 p.m. Cost is 250 pesos, which is good for a full menu of authentic warm-up events for charity.

Vallarta Celtfest - Saturday, Irish dishes, including: beer stew, JAY SADLER PROJECT mashed potatoes, corned beef & March 11 MAKING A DIFFERENCE It’s a live music celebration cabbage, fish & chips, salad and on the Malecon, across from dessert.

Live music will be going throuMurphy’s and next to El Faro, 3 p.m. to 2 a.m. ghout the afternoon. There will Musical line-up: also be a Donation Raffle and a 3 pm - Daniel Oliveros Trio 50-50 Drawing from 2 to 4 p.m. (traditional Celtic instruments) Proceeds from these events 4 pm - Dave Whitty will benefit the Playground in (traditional Irish and Vista Hermosa through the Newfoundland Pub Songs American Legion, the Navy 5 pm - La Trez Cuartoz League, the Jay Sadler Project (Celtic rock band) and DIF Vallarta. INtercam Banco 6 pm to 2 am - Celebration conti- Puerto Valalrta is a sponsor of nues in Murphy’s Pub Celtic food Navy league playgrounds, this specialties are available: Corned is the 2nd being constructed, beef & Cabbage, Guinness Stew, the first is in El Tuito, Jalisco (pop.3500).

Fish & Chips and more.

M

JAY SADLER PROJECT MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Contact: dennis2rike@hotmail.com

322-138-8891

JAY SADLER PROJECT MAKING A DIFFERENCE

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Annual Benefit Performance of Circo de los Niños de San Pancho

T

he Circo de los Niños de San Pancho, (San Pancho Children’s Circus) founded by the co-creator of Cirque du Soleil, Mr. Gilles St. Croix, will present their newest show from March 22 through 25 at 7:30 pm in the Circo Bodega in San Pancho, Nayarit Created seven years ago, Gilles St. Croix and his wife Monique Voyer started the circus school for the children of San Pancho. This non-profit organization through circus arts and techniques, helps the children build confidence, focus, determination and physical capacities.

The show concept is inspired from Shakespeare’s Midsummer Night Dream! More than 15 different techniques of circus art will be presented by the 85 children that part of this year production. The dream aspect seemed very appropriate with all those fairies living in a forest, and little characters playing tricks on each other. We imagined those magical scenes as

a celebration of friendship and love.

There won’t be spoken words or very little, evocation and pantomime will carry the story. Using colorful costumes, masks, make up, projections and lavish lighting, we will create a mysterious universe, where Oberon the Fairy King and his beautiful Queen Titania and their court will charm the spectators of all ages.

There will be graceful acrobatic ensembles. Daring feats. And clas-

sical numbers that are part of Circo de los Ninos seven years short history.

This is a very popular sell-out event each year. Don’t miss the chance to see these children in action. Mark your calendars: March 22-23-24-25 @ 7.30 pm Get your tickets online at www.circodelosninosdesanpancho.mx / General seating: 450 pesos Dream Catchers Fund Benefactors: 2500 pesos (for preferred seating)

A BIG WARM GRACIAS TO EVERYONE WHO HAS MADE BRAVOS WHO WE ARE!

Our staff, who love what they do and work hard day in and day out to make BRAVOS a fun and very cool place to be.

Our providers, who ensure we receive nothing but the very freshest ingredients with which to work our magic.

Our kitchen, which demonstrates our foodie pride by adding unique twists to every plate.

And of course YOU our guests, a great many of whom have become friends.

We could not have done it without you.

Sincerely, Michael & Edgar

Open 5 to 11 pm. Closed Mondays. Located on Calle Francisco I. Madero 263, just east of Calle Ignacio L. Vallarta in the Emiliano Zapata neighborhood.

Reserve your table at (322) 222-0339 or www.bravospv.com. Facebook: Bravos Restaurant Bar

March 2 - 8, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

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entertainment

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Presenting: Donald Moline

“The Soul Brothers”

Chris & Geoff Dahl's Hilarious Tribute To The Blues Brothers

by Marcia Blondin

S

ome quick facts about Donald: he played cello for the Chicago Symphony Orchestra for 39 years; he has a Grammy; he won six times on “Family Feud”; he has visited and played on six of our earth’s continents; he was six years old when he first heard Antonin Dvorak’s Cello Concerto on a 78 rpm recording; by age 12 he had decided what he would do when he grew up. Then he did just that – became a cellist.

When I met Donald to get to know him a bit before his concert which is on March 6, I was struck first by his kind face. He laughed when I asked if he travelled with his cello (I have been told they don’t travel well); Donald’s does!

He flies everywhere with his “dependant minor cello” for whom he has to pay full fare on the airline.

He bumped up to Business Class to come to Vallarta but suggested to the airline perhaps his cello could sit alone in steerage. The airline declined his request and suggested the cello should be close to him at all times and therefore required full fare.

He described his life as a cellist through various famous conductors, orchestras, schools, teachers, concert halls, students he played with. He never disparaged practising, or mentioned all the

other things he could have been doing as a child/young adult/middle-aged man, nothing remotely negative or complaining; it is what a cellist does. He plays everyday for an hour or two. To practise.

To learn more; to be a better cellist. When he wound around his tales of playing in Europe, Japan (where he lived and taught for years), all over the world he referenced others, always. With his upcoming concert, he wanted Jean-Guy Comeau, his pianist (whom we all love already) to have his name in equal-sized lights, as it were.

The only time Donald talked about himself in the first person was when he told me of his vocation. For over 20 years, Donald has served as a Minister of Care for Holy Name Cathedral at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, where he visits gravely ill patients in the oncology and palliative care units. His soft eyes become even softer along with his voice when he speaks about his ministry. He wants to learn enough Spanish to give Holy Communion to those who are dying and he wants to minister to them in their own language.

I am so looking forward to listening to this Master Cellist next week at Incanto. I have seen the program; we shall listen to wonder.

Cellist Donald Moline Fundraiser for the Puerto Vallarta Chamber Orchestra fundraiser and I AM PV (Instituto de Artes Musicales Puerto Vallarta) Cocktails and hor d’oeuvres on the Rio Cuale Patio with the PVCO student string quartet followed by solo concert with Donald Moline 5:30 cocktails, 7:00pm concert Tix $40 US or 800 MXP Available online from www.incantovallarta.com Insurgentes 109, Col. Emiliano Zapata 322 223 9756 This is a rare and special opportunity to experience a world class Grammy award winning musician at a lovely, intimate venue. With a seating capacity of only 70 this event is sure to sell out, so make sure you get your tickets early.

March 2 - 8, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

By Merv Buchanan merv@uvs.com

I

n the late 70s, Toronto was ground zero for blues music in Canada. Performers and fans flocked to the bars and dance halls, all hungry for a shot of the blues.

Among them were brothers Chris and Geoff Dahl, brothers Don and Rick Walsh and Dan Akroyd and John Belushi. So it's easy to understand how Akroyd, a huge blues fan himself, was inspired to create “The Blues Brothers”, first as a Saturday Night Live skit, then as an actual performing unit and eventually the subject of the movie of the same name.

Clearly Dan Akroyd was impressed by the bands he saw and heard in Toronto. The Downchild Blues Band, led by guitarist Don Walsh and his chubby brother Rick, aka “The Hock” (not to be confused with Ronnie Hawkins), are seen by most observers as Akroyd's inspiration for The Blues Brothers.

But how ironic would it be if the Dahl Brothers, one tall and slim, one short and portly, were the real inspiration for the iconic brothers whom they now pay tribute to?

Chris and Geoff Dahl, from

London Ontario, have been bluesmen since they were young teenagers. They both sing and between them they play every instrument a band is likely to need.

During their career, they have backed Buddy Guy, BB King, The Contours, The Miracles and a host of others. But in 1994, they put on the black suits and pork pie hats made famous in the movie “The Blues Brothers” for The Old Chicago Blues Festival. Their natural humour and appearance, combined with their singing and dancing antics were an immediate hit. They have never looked back.

To avoid confusion with the actual Dan Akroyd/James Belushi Blues Brothers, Chris and Geoff have recently changed the name of their show to “The Soul Brothers”.

These days, The Soul Brothers travel extensively throughout Canada, The US., Europe and the middle east. They perform everywhere from military bases in the frozen north, to arenas, ballrooms, concert halls and even tents in the sun scorched Arabian desert.

The popularity of their show is underscored by the fact that they are often booked in non English speaking countries. Everyone everywhere seems to know of

The Blues Brothers and everyone loves their songs and moves.

Most winters, the brothers are the headliners in the popular “Stars In Concert” shows, staged six night a week, in a large ballroom, in Berlin Germany.

The Soul Brothers material covers the most popular R'n'B stars of all time, including Sam & Dave, Wilson Pickett, James Brown, Jimmy Reed, Big Joe Turner and many more. Chris Dahl's excellent vocals, combined with the well known dance moves from The Blues Brothers movie make for an exciting, highly entertaining show.

During the second and third week of March, The Soul Brothers get their “spring break”. Not ones to sit around, after a short visit with family and friends in Canada, they fly to Mexico for shows at The Luna Lounge in Bucerias on March 9 and 10, a show at El Rio BBQ in Paso Ancho on March 11, then on to dates in Mazatlan. More information on these shows is available on the venue web sites and here in the Vallarta Tribune.

Copyright 2017. No part of this material may be quoted or used in any manner without the prior written permission of the author.

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March 2 - 8, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

“Tapestry Live”

Suzanne O. Davis' Carole King Songbook

By Merv Buchanan, merv@uvs.com

C

arole Klein, aka Carole King, has been one of the world's most successful and prolific female songwriters since the 1950s, placing 118 songs, many of them pop music standards, on the coveted Billboard Hot 100 chart. And since her chart topping “Tapestry” album in 1971, she has also become a pop star, selling more than 75,000,000 records. In the process, she has received 4 Grammys and been inducted into both The Songwriters Hall of Fame and The Rock'n'Roll Hall of Fame.

Suzanne O. Davis, “Suzanno Piano” to her friends, is one of the busiest and most talented entertainers in Canada. Her career as a vocalist, pianist and flute player has taken her from Canada, to the U.S., Cuba, the Middle East and now Mexico.

Suzanne’s career began at age five, when she was enrolled at the Cleveland Ohio Institute of Music.

Classroom studies, private lessons, advanced university courses and plenty of experience as a touring musician have all helped to make her the accomplished, in-demand, teacher, session player and performer she is today.

Besides touring with nume-

A great idea!

by Norma Schuh

H

ow is it that some people are a veritable storehouse of ideas, seemingly never at a loss for innovative ways to be vital and fulfilled? How can each of us tap into our gifts and resources and find that creative spark? Answering these questions is the focus of next Tuesday’s TED TALKS-PV-Style, Creative Living: A Work in Progress, on March 7 at 10:00 am, at Boutique Theater, with presenter Dan Grippo.

Creativity often comes out of selfcreated challenges, Dan believes; challenges that commit us to finding solutions. You volunteer to give a talk, for example, and then you need to rise to the occasion, finding the resources and devising a plan to realize that commitment.

But why subject oneself to the challenge of speaking, teaching, guiding in the first place?

We are each in possession of a

rous tribute shows, Suzanne has played with or opened for many world class performers, including, America, KC & The Sunshine Band, Eddie Money, Taylor Dane and The Village People. At the same time, she has managed to carve out her own personal niche in the entertainment industry.

“Tapestry Live” is successful because Suzanne loves King’s songs, understands the nuances of her singing and piano playing, emulating them with amazing accuracy. Of the terrific audience response, Suzanne says; “I think the show is a hit because Carole

King’s songs are great and happen to be a perfect match for my experience and abilities”. A few of the songs included in the show are “You've Got A friend”, “Will You Love Me Tomorrow”, “I Feel The Earth Move”, “The Locomotion”, “Up On The Roof” and “Crying In The Rain”.

Suzanne makes her first trip to Banderas Bay, for a show at The Luna Lounge, in Bucerias, on March 12 and at Incanto, in Vallarta, on March 13 and 14.

Copyright 2017. No part of this material may be used in any manner without the prior written consent of the author.

natural wealth of talents, Dan says.

Consciously or otherwise, we have a need to express a value, sentiment, message, or belief. Initially we feel a call, or something resonates within us. Lest you believe you are the dull exception, Dan maintains that all of us are creative, albeit in varying ways. Perhaps you don’t write like Shakespeare, but penning a special birthday wish or heart-felt thank you note to a friend is a creative act.

You might not be Martha Stewart, but when you produce a tasty meal from a seemingly empty cupboard or fridge, you are being creative. Maybe your adventures are not akin to those of Jane Goodall, but if you’ve ever started over in a new town and found a “new normal,” you’ve tapped into your innate creativity.

Among many intriguing aspects of Creative Living, Dan will explore pertinent research and personal experiences on the topic of creativity, including both the challenges and rewards of pursuing a creative life and ideas for kindling your creative self when you feel in a rut.

The key to creative living, Dan believes, is the willingness to work at it and to stretch and grow, especially when it means leaving one’s comfort zone!

Tickets for TED TALKS-PV-Style may be purchased for $250 pesos each on-line at BTPV.org or at the Boutique Theater Box Office (044322-728-6878) at 287 Basilio Badillo prior to or the day of the presentation.

Talks take place every other Tuesdayand are followed by an opportunity for interaction with attendees, who may wish to comment, pose questions or share their own personal experience regarding the topic.

The series producer, Norma Schuh, can be contacted at: normaschuh@yahoo.com March 21: Diary of a Dairy Queen and Spicy Tales from Taco Belle with Joanna and Chichi Rones April 4: Artificial Intelligence: Opportunity and Threat with John Wilson Bugbee April 18: American Journey: Tales from a Troubadour with Larry Long

Puerto Vallarta’s Youth-Based Jazz Orchestra to Perform Monthly

T

he Salty Paw Jazz Orchestra is coming of age fast!

Officially established in September 2016, only five months ago, the band has already been invited to perform the first Sunday of every month at the Jazz Foundation, Allende 116, just off the malecon in Puerto Vallarta and across the street from La Bodegita del Medio. Led by Director Victor Kris, it quickly evolved into a full jazz ensemble – and went beyond, for it expanded over and above the usual jazz instrumentation, and includes violins, flutes and clarinets, adding creative new musical dimensions to the ensemble.

The “Salty Paw Jazz Orchestra” or “Pata Salada Orquesta de Jazz”

is a Big Band style orchestra consisting mostly of young musicians learning improvisation.

While the usual big band orchestra is comprised of eighteen musicians, the Salty Paw Jazz Orchestra has grown to twenty-seven members and has already given several fundraising concerts – at Act II Stages in Puerto Vallarta, The Breakers Beach Club Restaurant and Bar in Bucerias, and at Plaza Caracol in Puerto Vallarta.

Concerts at the Jazz Foundation are scheduled for the first Sunday of the month starting this March 5.

Performance time will be 7 pm. A supporting fee of 100 pesos, in lieu of a cover charge, will be directly donated to the band.

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Is Marina Vallarta the New Gourmet Go To?

PEPE’S

By Madeline Milne

LAS ALCATRACES Neptune atop the aptly named is a classic serving huge meals that Neptuno Plaza and you’ll find it in no include dessert and a bottle of tequila on the table for only $129 pesos. time.

Residents and visitors alike can There are a number of small spas stroll the malecon and check out offering massage, mani and pedis the variety of impressive yachts and and facials. Boutiques with jewelry, power cruisers, many of which offer clothing, souvenirs and even an orsailing, fishing and private charters, ganic food store. Looking for a great and of course the famous El Faro gourmet food and booze selection – Lighthouse with its bar/lounge at check out La Europa in the Nima Bay the top with incredible panoramic complex. For perhaps the best steak in the city, book a reservation at Soviews, always perfect at sunset. nora Grill and if microbrews are your The recent surge in popularity has thing – BeerBox Prime has over 200 helped fill restaurants up and down choices – a rare find in Mexico! You the boardwalk. From a great tradi- could eat every meal in Marina Valtional breakfast at Café Tacuba to a larta for a week and still have places romantic dinner at Portobello, fun to visit! diner food at D’z Route 66 and all The Marina Vallarta Club de Golf, the sports at Chappy’s. New on the an 18-hole championship golf course scene, at the entrance to Marina Val- designed by Joe Finger is a lush larta is Tintoque with a sophisticated green course with lagoons that have menu. Another relative new comer 4 crocodiles, birds and iguanas. The Sapori on the corner of Calle Popa clubhouse is also a popular spot for and the malecon offers just about breakfast! The next time you’re lookanything you could desire with a ing for a new place to explore – head view of the marina and El Coleguito to Marina Vallarta, but come hungry!

CALLE MASTIL VALLARTA ADVENTURES

n past years, unless you stayed or lived in Marina Vallarta it could be easy to ignore all its offerings, but not anymore. Perhaps it’s the influx of more visitors, or the completion of the Nima Bay complex, but Marina Vallarta is the newest hotspot in the bay, with upscale dining, great new shops and the exciting Thursday evening artisan market that lines the entire malecon. Every Thursday from November through April from 6-10pm you will find 100+ vendors and live music entertaining the crowds, while the restaurants and shops are filled with people, clearly enjoying themselves.

Just a few minutes from the International Airport, Marina Vallarta is a wonderful mix of residential, resorts, shopping and restaurants based around the 450-slip marina and its boardwalk. If you drive too quickly, you might miss the main entrance to Marina Vallarta. But keep an eye out for the large whale sculpture and the huge statue of

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BOHEMIAN BUTTERFLY DESIGN

Store and Studio - Marina Vallarta A4 (Near Chappy’s Sports Bar) BohemianButterflyDesign@gmail.com BohemianButterflyDesign.com

This map is not complete, nor to scale, but it’s a handy list of the most popular restaurants and shops along the marina.

MARINA MALECON/BOARDWALK: EACH THURSDAY EVENING 100’S OF VENDORS SET UP ALONG THIS MALECON FROM 6-10PM

MED&SPA

TINTOQUE

EL COLEGUITA

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Events Calendar Have an event you want to promote?

Email the details: Where, When, Who and What by Monday 5pm to Editor(at)VallartaTribune.com to be included in that week’s paper.

All events can be found online at www.vallartatribune.com/events NOW ADD YOUR EVENT ONLINE – FREE ONLINE LISTINGS! March 1-5 11th annual Vallarta – Nayarit Wine Festival Tastings, conferences, special chef’s dinners and a gran verbena popular in Lazaro Cardenas park.

Open to the public - details at WineFestVallarta on Facebook March 3 Pre show Riverfest Live Music - El Rio BBQ Bar 2:00 pm Hard Money, 4:00 pm Bob & Gilberto 50 peso donation at the gate.

Proceeds to Pasitos de Luz March 4 RIVERFEST El Rio BBQ Bar noon until 6:00 pm Music festival - 6 musicians/ bands, exhibits, bbq buffet plus paella, silent auction, 50/50 and more. $100 pesos donation at the gate. All proceeds to Pasitos de Luz. March 4 Wine Festival Expo: 3:00 to 5:00 pm at Velas Vallarta Hotel Wine-lovers will enjoy a variety of wines accompanied by various cheeses, breads, and deli meats. Cost: $200 pesos.

March 5 Riverfest post show - El Rio BBQ Bar Mariachis 3:00 pm 50 pesos donation at the gate Proceeds to Pasitos de Luz

March 5 Wine Fest Gran Verbena Popular: 6-9 pm at Lazaro Cardenas Park, the Verbena Popular is a fun-filled evening of live entertainment, gourmet food and wines by the glass at special prices. Admission is free.

March 5 SEX PLEASE, WE’RE SIXTY Dinner Theatre at Langosta Diez Restaurant, Langosta #10, La Cruz To benefit Amigos de La Cruz de Huancaxtle, A.C. Contact Linda Randall for tickets raylin1970@shaw.ca More information at www.amigosdelacruz.org March 6 Puerto Vallarta Chamber Orchestra fundraiser and I AM PV (Instituto de Artes Musicales Puerto Vallarta) Join Grammy Award winning Cellist Donald Moline for Cocktails and hor d’oeuvres and concert with Donald Moline at Incanto - 5:30 cocktails, 7:00pm concert Tix $40 US or 800 MXP Available online from www.incantovallarta.com and at the venue on Insurgentes 109, Emiliano Zapata March 7 Free Malecon Sculpture Tour.

Meets every Tuesday morning at 9:30am in front of the Millennium Sculpture by the Hotel Rosita on the north end of the Malecon. Meet local artists, learn more about the vibrant artistic community we have in Puerto Vallarta.

March 7 IFC Home Tours - Visit 4 stunning Vallarta homes. Leave Sea Monkey Restaurant on the Malecon at 10:30am - 3 Hours. $600 pesos www.toursforvallarta.com

March 7 SEX PLEASE, WE’RE SIXTY Dinner Theatre at Langosta Diez Restaurant, Langosta #10, La Cruz To benefit Amigos de La Cruz de Huancaxtle, A.C. Contact Linda Randall for tickets raylin1970@shaw.ca More information at www.amigosdelacruz.org March 8 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 March 8 SEX PLEASE, WE’RE SIXTY Dinner Theatre at Langosta Diez Restaurant, Langosta #10, La Cruz To benefit Amigos de La Cruz de Huancaxtle, A.C. Contact Linda Randall for tickets raylin1970@shaw.ca More information at www.amigosdelacruz.org March 8 IFC Home Tours - Visit 4 stunning Vallarta homes. Leave Sea Monkey Restaurant on the Malecon at 10:30am - 3 Hours. $600 pesos www.toursforvallarta.com March 9 Que Viva El Canto – Fundraiser for the Los Mangos Library 7:30 at the Sheraton Bugambilia.

Featuring arias and popular music.

Tix $450 at the door or purchase at Los Mangos Library.

March 2 - 8, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

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!

PUERTO VALLARTA

Olas Altas Market Saturday 9:00 -2:00pm Runs until April 29th in Park Lazaro Cardenas Three Hens and a Rooster Market Saturday 9 – 1pm and Wednesday 9-1pm Year round at Venustiano Carranza 466 in Emiliano Zapata Bohemio Artisans Co op.

Every Wednesday and Sunday 10-2 625 Lazaro Cardenas, Old Town.

Marsol Friday Market by the Pier Friday 9:30 – 1:30 pm Year round at Marsol Hotel Lobby in Old Town.

Mercado at Los Mangos Library Los Mangos Saturday 9-2pm Marina Vallarta Market Every Thursday evening until the end of April along the boardwalk in Marina Vallarta. 6-10pm

NUEVO VALLARTA

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

BUCERIAS

Forever Spring Wednesday 9 - 1 pm along Lazaro Cardenas

LA CRUZ

La Cruz Sunday Market Sunday 10-2pm Over 200 vendors. The bay’s largest market along the Marina Riviera Nayarit

SAYULITA & SAN PANCHO

Mercado del Pueblo Friday 10-2pm on Revolucion Street Great local and organic market with many vendors available only here.

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

LO DE MARCOS, GUAYABITOS, CHACALA AND LA PEÑITA

The Tianguis Lo de Marcos is held on Luis Echeverría street Saturday 9-2pm The Chacala Cultural Market in the main Plaza.

Saturday 9-1pm Guayabitos Market on the main plaza in town Monday 8-1pm La Peñita Market on its main plaza.

Thursday 8-1pm

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Three Hens and a Rooster Market News

T

wo of our Boutique denizens are Bill Kelly and Pat Wagner. They are open every Saturday morning and ready to help you decide on fabric choices. Bill, as one of the Fabulous Fabric Fellows, has an extraordinary eye for colour and as a general rule likes more colour, rather than less. He chooses fabrics from all over the world so a visit to his small shop is a sensory delight – pillows, cushions, aprons and cooling ties (made of the finest cotton) and the odd handbag and shawl of amazing colours and/or textures he could not resist having. Bill is also amenable to mixing fabrics and designs if it’s at all possible; he often has the last of a bolt of fabric, which makes his collection even more significant.

Pat Wagner divides her time fairly evenly between her sewing room and her kitchen.

She makes fabric bags that are delightful hostess gifts when one is carrying a bottle of wine to a dinner party or as a gift.

She is always thinking ahead and has ‘holiday-appropriate’ fabrics ready in advance. Pat also makes gorgeous plus-sized blouses and cover-ups for women, always priced fairly.

She is one of the few (maybe the only?) people who grates fresh horseradish in Vallarta.

That alone is worth the trip to Three Hens! Her fudges (always an assortment) are literally meltin-your-mouth and oddly enough,

not cloyingly sweet. Just delicious.

Her bean salsas and jalapeno jelly are great to have on hand for when friends drop by.

As well as Bill Kelly and Pat Wagner, we have painters, bakers, makers of peanut brittle and Chiapas-grown coffee and much, much more!

Three Hens & a Rooster Market is open Wednesdays and Saturdays from 9 to 1 at Venustiano Carranza 466 in Old Town.

Marsol Friday Market by the Pier

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anoderma is one those ancient Oriental remedies that has filtered down to us in the West and is growing in popularity as people who use it are becoming healthier. Ganoderma is hard to find as it grows naturally as a tree mushroom in Japan. One company, based in Canada, has independent distributors and the Marsol Friday Market has Lynne Sutherland who can and will share her knowledge about this amazing organic mushroom and its myriad

applications for our bodies.

There has never been a case of toxicity or overdose with this tea and the only “side effects” it can cause are good ones! Go and see Lynne.

Lalo has been buying and selling fine jewellery for more than 50 years. He doesn’t limit himself to gold or sterling silver; to diamonds or pearls – rather he has an eclectic (to say the least!) array of necklaces, pendants, rings, bracelets, earrings and more.

Lalo’s pieces are from the

MARSOL FRIDAY MARKET

BY THE PIER

CADA VIERNES 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

MARSOL HOTEL BY THE PIER 103 FRANCISCA RODRIGUEZ OLAS ALTAS

1920’s up to and included last week’s particular piece that caught his eye.

He often has broken bits from one era mixed in with something he liked the color of at one time and has them remade into something completely different.

Stop by and say hello; his collection is as wonderful to look at as the story behind how each beautifully displayed piece came to him.

Monica has Limoncello! Find her, get some ciabatta and try a sample of her delicious new drink!

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

March 2 - 8, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Alex Daoud, “The Magic Man”, Can’t see Ugly – Only Beauty

by Julie Bunker

Do you ever feel UGLY? You know… down in the dumps?... pants a little tight?.... having a really BAD hair-day? You ask a friend, “How do I look?”… and they tell you the unpleasant TRUTH?!

Well, I know a man who absolutely cringes when a woman feels “Ugly” because this man sees beauty in ALL women – no matter their age, size, race or hairstyle! Ask THIS man how you look, and he’ll say “BEAUTIFUL”. Why?... because he can see your INNER beauty. And what’s even better, this man is passionate about making your outer beauty sparkle to match the beauty you have inside.

He is Alex Daoud…. AKA, “The Magic Man”…. owner of Alexander A Salon International Beauty Spa located in Plaza Marina.

Alex is passionate about his work. Looking forward to Fridays at 6pm, or dreading Monday mornings means nothing to him. Any day of the week, Alex is a ready and willing “Artist”. (Not “stylist” – because it takes an Artist to see each human being in their own unique light.)

Alex says a good “stylist” has to: 1) have a good education, 2) great products, and 3) use the right techniques.

But… Alex insists there are two more requirements to be a true “Artist”: 4) Passion, and 5) Love. These 5 elements are reflected in the services Alex offers…. from cuts and color, to make-up and eyebrow threading. You can think of this in terms of food. It’s true that just about anyone can cook (even me), but it takes a great chef to satisfy a serious foodie! And so it is with a Hair and Beauty “Artist”!

From a fabulous low maintenance “wash and go” cut, to looking like a flower, to…. (What? Flower?) Yes! You see Alex uses “foam” instead of aluminum foil for coloring hair (see photo). Foils, combined

with the steamy heat, can cause damage to the hair – drying it out…making some colors look “brassy”. But the use of foam is not only environmentally friendly (wash and reuse), it’s a gentler process allowing air to enter. Note: Cut and Color are calculated according to your hair type and facial structure. In fact, Alex will look at you, then close his eyes and get a vision of the perfect look for you.

That’s how he became known as The Magic Man! In Alex’s six short years in Puerto Vallarta, his business became so successful, that in April 2016, he expanded to also include spa services such as manicure, pedicure, massage,

was touched since he has never “gone without” in his life. Since that time, Alex began to see the inner beauty of each woman he meets.

So he made a decision to learn how to transform women on the outside, to empower them to become aware of their beauty on the inside. He began his studies in nearby Germany and Italy; then started his career as a stylist/”Artist” for “Good Morning, Jordan”.

That led him to work with both the Miss Universe and Miss USA pageants in 2008. He went on to work for Schwarzkopf, a German hair/cosmetic company, and for the CHI Company Design Team in Cancun,

female market goers, donating 50% of the proceeds to those charities. Alex has also touched the lives of many female inmates at our local prison, whom, in November 2016 benefited from training in basic haircutting techniques, so upon release they have a skill that will help them support their children.

Imagine how they felt when Alex gave each and every one of them a haircut! They are looking forward to his return this summer (2017) when he will continue his work with them.

But what about Puerto Vallarta’s “everyday women”…. those who were born here, or foreign born, or visit part time, or just va-

waxing and more.

Alex was introduced to genuine beauty as a teenager in his homeland of Jordan when he was offered an opportunity to work for the matriarch of his country, Queen Noor. Together with her obvious exquisite physical attributes, Alex discovered she also possessed a deep inner beauty and tender heart. Alex was involved with her project to empower the Jordanian women from the impoverished villages through the Queen Noor Foundation, where she collected intricately handmade pieces from the women, sold them, then returned their money to help them to care for their children.

Seeing this, Alex’s heart

Mexico. As a speaker/educator, he conducted groups of 5000 plus eager-to-learn stylists demonstrating the latest cuts, some of which were his own creations.

Now it was time for Alex to find the way to pursue his goal – to follow in Queen Noor’s footsteps.

The Magic Man wasted no time! Alex has donated over 100,000 pesos to local charities that benefit both women and children such as Pasitos de Luz, Casa Hogar, Kids with Cancer, and Corazon de Niñas. In fact he spends Sundays during high season at the La Cruz de Huanacaxtle Farmers’ Market at his booth providing haircuts and/or eyebrow threading, to both male and

cation here? (We everyday women can have a blind spot, too, when it comes to seeing our inner beauty.) These women see Alex at his salon. When greeted warmly upon arrival, and after having fun during the “flower phase”, Alex will give you a big hug and tell you of your beauty. That is when you know you are in the right spot.

So the next time you are down in the dumps, feeling “ugly” – remember The Magic Man, Alex Daoud…. and remember your own inner beauty. Look these photos. See that sparkle?!

Would you like that, too, and “good” hair, to boot?

Then go see Alex Daoud.

You’ll have a great time – and leave looking and feel-

ing BEAUTIFUL – inside and out!

You can find “Magic Man”, Alex Daoud, at the La Cruz de Huanacaxtle Farmers’ Market between 10am – 2pm every Sunday during “high season”, or at Alexander A Salon International Beauty Spa in Plaza Marina, local F2, year round, next to the Comercial Mexicana supermarket. 322-169-8111.

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Celebrities and Award Winners coming to Incanto

K

elly Mantle is an actor, comedian, singer/songwriter, and the nephew of the late baseball great Mickey Mantle. Currently, he can be seen in the feature film “Confessions Of A Womanizer”, and recently made Oscar history by being the first gender-fluid actor eligible to be considered for both Best Supporting Actor and Actress. Kelly was seen on Season Six of RuPaul’s Drag Race, and has starred in over 50 plays in the theatre. He has also released three albums, with a fourth due out later this year. #Nastywoman is an inebriated evening of hilarious, sardonic comedy mixed with live performances of twisted cover songs and originals. Kelly will also divulge juicy details about RuPaul’s Drag Race, her sordid affairs in Hollywood, and what it’s like to be a #Nastywoman in these tumultuous times. Three nights only, March 3, 4, 5.

Grammy-nominated Country Music recording artist Ty Herndon has a passion and commitment to his music that continues to play out in his lyrics. “If I haven’t lived it, I

haven’t sung it”, says Herndon. With a career spanning two decades, 20 Billboard charted singles and over five million albums sold, Herndon shows no signs of slowing down.

Initially gaining popularity playing honky-tonks in Texas, in ‘93 he was named Texas Entertainer of the Year, signing with Epic Records.

Herndon’s numerous top 10 hits include Living in a Moment and It Must Be Love. He recently released his newest and much-anticipated full-length album House On Fire in 2016. He makes his Vallarta debut March 6 -18.

On Monday, March 6 a fundraiser benefiting the Instituto de Artes Musicales Puerto Vallarta and the Chamber Orchestra of Puerto

Vallarta will be held at Incanto. It will include music from the Student String Quartet beginning at 5:30 with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres on the riverside terrace, followed by a solo-concert by Grammy Award winning cellist Donald Moline at 7:00 in the piano bar. This event is nearly sold-out as of press time, so interested persons should reserve quickly.

Mondays in the piano bar at 5:00 for Happy Hour is Stolie with a show at 8:00. Pianist Jean-Guy Comeau (Jay-Gee) also appears on select dates. NYC’s Michael McAssey presents catchy cabaret tunes and sing-alongs Tues.- Sat. at 8:00 & 10:00. And BINGO with Pearl benefiting the Los Mangos Literacy Program with Special Guest Kelly Mantle will be held on March 4, 4:00 - 6:00.

Tickets and more information are available online for all upcoming shows at Incanto’s website www.

IncantoVallarta.com. Box Office opens at 10:00 AM daily. Incanto is located at Insurgentes 109 (at the Rio Cuale). Phone them at 322 223 9756 for reservations.

March 2 - 8, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

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March 2 - 8, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

THIS WEEK AT THE BOUTIQUE

Celebrate spring, Broadway glistens

T

he Best of Broadway” is a musical review, starring Puerto Vallarta performers, directed and crafted by Ralph Hyman. It performs Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, March 2-18.

The show is a nostalgic look at personal growth journeys recognizing fear, pain, love, fun and laughter. “Embedded in all our struggles, we can find the beacons leading to the transformation to happiness, joy, and harmony in life,” Hyman said. He has more than 55 years of experience acting and 30 years directing.

Ralph’s first experience was playing the wizard in “The Wizard of Oz” in 1961. He reflects on the feeling of excitement being on stage, and this planted the seed of passion he brings to the theatre daily. The deep passion for theatre

led him to open a 90-seat theater in Little Rock in 1993. He directed and produced 12 shows a year, all surrounding social issues, attempting to make people question and inspire action to make life better for themselves and those in their community. On Monday, March 13,

“SYNG!”, the Banderas Bay mixed voice chorus, presents “Feel The Love,” a “joyous boutique of choral favorites,” as a fundraiser for The Boutique Theatre. Twenty singers deliver a program to please everyone’s musical palettes, showcasing the versatility of the chorus through its love of music and performing.

Hear numbers from the Beatles, the Big Band era, spirituals, ABBA, and more. The evening is a fundraiser for The Boutique and Alas Escuela de Canto.

Mikki Prost will present her fifth annual Patsy Cline Memorial Show, marking the death of the country singing legend, on Sunday, March 5. Cline’s life ended March 5, 1963, but her music is still with us. Mikki Prost will have some surprises, and the show is unlike her tribute shows on Wednesdays, March 8, 15, and

22. Wednesday shows are at 7:30 p.m., “Crazy For Patsy.”

Auditions for “Ripcord” will be at 1 p.m. Monday, March 6, for the play by David Lindsay-Abaire.

Director Ralph Hyman will begin rehearsing March 4, and the show runs April 13-22. Blues legend Tim Williams is returning to Puerto Vallarta with his one-man storytelling and music show, which you can’t see anywhere else but The Boutique. The Canadian guitarist

Woody Allen Comedian, Author, Film Maker Part Two

By Fred Jacobs

W

hen we left off last week, Woody had made a name for himself as a talented writer for other comediennes and also appeared on TV doing his own material. The mid 1960’s saw Woody branch out into writing plays and even screenplays for the big screen.

One notable play during this period, was “Play It Again, Sam” in which Woody also starred. The play opened on February 12, 1969, and ran for 453 performances and it featured an up and coming young actress, Diane Keaton. This combo of Diane and Woody would go on for years on Broadway and eventually the big screen with eight films together. The two reportedly also had a two year relationship off screen in the early 1970’s.

As for his screenplay writing for the big screen, 1965 was an important year for Woody. The movie “What’s New Pussycat?” was released with stars of the day like Peter Sellers, Peter O’Toole, Romy Schneider, Paula Prentiss, Ursula Andress and Woody himself. Always the perfectionist, Woody was not very happy with the final movie and decided from then on, that he would direct any future movie he wrote the screenplay for.

Woody then directed, starred in, and co-wrote “Take the Money

and Run” (1969), which received positive reviews. He later signed a deal with United Artists to produce several films including “Bananas” (1971), “Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sex” (1972), “Sleeper” (1973), and “Love and Death” (1975) Woody was quickly proving to be a major force in Hollywood, but in 1977, Woody hist the big times with “Annie Hall” starring Diane Keaton. With a budget of only $4 million US, it would end up taking in over $40 million at the box

office and earn four Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Actress for Diane Keaton, Best Original Screenplay and Best Director for Woody. The film also ignited a fashion trend with the masculine clothes worn by Diane Keaton.

In 1979, Woody struck gold again with the film “Manhattan”.

The film was a black-and-white homage to New York City. The love and hate opinion of smart thinking persons, is a characteristic of many of Woody’s movies.

In “Manhattan” the theme was a

complicated relationship between middle-aged man (Woody) with a 17-year-old woman (Mariel Hemingway), and also co-starred Diane Keaton and a young Meryl Streep.

The 1980’s would become Woody Allen’s decade.

“A Midsummer Night’s Sex Comedy” (1982) was the first of thirteen movies Woody made starring his future real life partner of twelve years, Mia Farrow, who stepped into Diane Keaton’s role when Keaton was busy shooting Reds and could not work in Woody’s

and singer will give his final performance March 14.

The Boutique Dinner Theatre offers exciting evenings of dinnerand-a-show options. The theatre is located upstairs at Nacho Daddy, 287 Basilio Badillo. Box office hours are 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Monday through Saturday, and two hours before each show. Tickets are available online at btpv.org.

For information call 322-728-6878.

latest film. “Hannah and Her Sisters” (1985) and “Crimes and Misdemeanors” (1989) would combine tragedy and comedy and become instant classics for Woody. 1985 also saw “The Purple Rose of Cairo” come to the big screen, depicting the importance of cinema during the great depression.

The film would be voted one of the top 100 films of all time by Time magazine-another accomplishment for Woody.

“Manhattan Murder Mystery” (1993) combined suspense with dark comedy and marked the return of Diane Keaton to a Woody Allen film, along with Alan Alda and Anjelica Huston.

For the rest of the 1990’s and into the 2000’s, Woody’s films became dark and foreshadowing.

They were not always the big box office hits of the 1980’s, but Woody was not concerned about that anymore… he was proud of them for the messages they brought.

Woody’s personal life got very messy during this time as well, with his split from longtime partner (but never married) Mia Farrow and eventual marriage to Mia’s adopted daughter, Soon-Yi Previn in 1997. But whatever Woody’s tabloid dramas may be, what Woody brings to the big screen for us, you can always be sure, it’s a film that’s going to make you think.

Fred Jacobs is a full time resident of Puerto Vallarta and the author of three books.

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Natural at Organic Love Restaurant

F

or a lot of people coming to Mexico (and the beach) it means eating well and drinking abundantly.

Food and service is cheap compared to most places, so why not eat the steak dinner and have chicken nachos for breakfast?

We crave meat to satisfy the carnivore in us all.

But, if you really want to take your stomach along for your journey down south you should let it enjoy what is remarkable about this climate here.

I’ll let you in on a secret; It’s not the cows.

When you first taste a mango that you have picked from the tree and not one that has travelled a couple of thousand miles in a container, you will realize why you should try something a little different from what you are used to.

To eat organic, which is this popular modern concept, is really just growing stuff like it was done before we had engineers and chemists maximizing the yield from the fields.

In La Cruz, there lives a woman who truly believes in the organic

future, she cooks with vegetables and cheese that she buys at the local market on Sundays, all organic and handmade. She scours the aisles at the supermarket for organic products, preferably made in Mexico.

She collects the best ingredients the bay, the state and the country has to provide and transforms them into absolutely amazing food, comparable to the best restaurants in the most modern cities around the globe. And we have it right here in this sleepy little village.

In her restaurant and smoothie bar you can get a taste of the Mexican sun and the sweet deliciousness that only a tropical climate can give.

You can enjoy various breakfast plates including

eggs from a local farm that doesn’t feed their chickens corn because it might be GMO. For lunch you can enjoy her homemade bread. She found a Mexican supplier of high quality organic flour, so this bread is also made as natural as possible, and you can taste it.

This wonderful whole wheat bread turns into the most delicious sandwiches filled with different vegetables, both fresh and pickled.

Three days a week she offers dinner with a reservation and every week a new menu. So come on down to Organic Love in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, located just in front of Philo’s Real Estate Office.

Who is this person that cares so much about you and the food you eat? Alef Alfa Astral!

March 2 - 8, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

XXV Banderas Bay International Regatta

O

ver 25 boats and more than 200 participants from Mexico, the United States and Canada will be competing for the trophy in this friendly competition, considered to be the coolest in the world.

The XXV Banderas Bay International Regatta is just around the corner, taking place from February 28 to March 4, 2017. It is hosted and organized by the Vallarta Yacht Club (VYC) in Nuevo Vallarta, Riviera Nayarit.

As happens every year, this traditional regatta will include participants from Mexico, the United States and Canada, most of which have their boats in the marinas at Nuevo Vallarta, La Cruz de Huanacaxtle and Puerto Vall The vast majority of participants are registering this last week before the competition; over 25 boats are expected to be on the list, with over 200 crewmembers competing in what’s considered the coolest regatta in the world.

Competing boats invited to enjoy the event must all be oceanready and 22 feet or over, and even though it’s a friendly match no one wants to miss out on the trophy, which gives the winner extensive bragging rights among fellow sailors in the bay.

Friendly or not, all corresponding sailing regatta rules and regulations must be followed, and there will also be an official international judge to see to their enforcement.

The opening ceremony at the VYC will be on February 28 and the closing dinner and awards ceremony will take place on March 4 at the Paradise Village hotel.

Some of the competitors have been in the bay area for three months prior to the competition preparing their boats for a Pacific crossing, which is why participation in the regatta gives them the opportunity to test their equipment and fine-tune what’s needed.

For additional details visit: http:// www.banderasbayregatta.com/.

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March 2 - 8, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Luna Lounge continues to entertain Bucerias

By Debbie White

W

e love seeing and hearing things that are familiar, like well-known songs by legendary artists. This is one of the reasons why “tribute shows” are so popular. We enjoy hearing the songs of our lives that have been made famous by major artists throughout the years.

Each new week, Luna Lounge Bucerias continues to bring outstanding, quality dinner shows to the North Shore. People just can’t get enough of all these fabulous musical tributes!

Every Tuesday and Wednesday night starting at 7 pm, Luna Lounge Bucerias features the allnew Crazy Bitches (drag) dinner show with Miss Diva Divine and her gals! These shows are in high demand, so book ahead of time.

Coming up in March are more exciting shows! The Legend of Johnny Cash debuts on Thursday and Friday, March 2 and 3. The show features the incredible music of the ‘Man in Black.’ Philip Bauer will take us on a journey

through the music of this master.

Thursday is sold out, but there are still a few tickets available for Friday.

On March 4, award-winning tropic rock artist, Brittany Kingery presents an encore performance of her show, Blame It On Mexico. As a Vallarta headliner and international recording artist, Brittany is a crowd favorite! Brittany sells out her shows in Vallarta

and also tours internationally with her music. She is a rising star in the “Tropic Rock” genre and is an outstanding performer!

On March 5, Dan Lauzon stars as Ol’ Blue Eyes... Frank Sinatra. He›ll take us back to the days of the smooth crooner, with songs like, “Fly Me to The Moon” and “Strangers in the Night.” With the look and voice of the original, this show is a winner.

And don’t miss Soul Man: The Blues Brothers on March 9 and 10. Direct from Germany, this show starring another set of ‘Blues Brothers’ will amuse and entertain with the personas and music of those lovable brothers from the classic comedy!

Back by popular demand, international headliner, Dwight Blake returns on March 11 with Memories of Motown. His band, “The

Funk Brothers” once again accompany him. Dwight brings the music of the “Motor City” to life with each of his fantastic performances!

Internationally renowned star, Suzanne O. Davis brings her Carol King: Tapestry Live show to Luna Lounge on March 12. Tapestry is one of the best selling albums of all time and the music is truly extraordinary. Don’t miss this one!

A special St. Patrick’s Day Show (March 17) is planned with entertainers Brian O’Brian and Paul Caldwell.

Luna Lounge is venturing north to Guayabitos to The Piña Colada Restaurant for weekly shows in March. You’ll see: The Johnny Cash Show on March 8, The Crazy Bitches Drag Show on March 13, The Jerry Lee Lewis Show on March 22 and The Garth Brooks Show on March 29. See Linda Gibbs at Casita De La Peñita to pay cash for these shows.

Visit lunaloungebucerias.com to book all your tickets or send an email to: hugh@lunaloungebucerias.com if you have any questions. Luna Lounge is located at Av. Mexico #27, Bucerías, Nayarit.

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riviera nayarit

March 2 - 8, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

the volunteers that make the San Pancho Music Fest successful for 17 years now! sanpanchomusicfest. wordpress.com Bucerias Pet Picnic is on Sunday March 4th from 2-4pm at the Abuelos de Bucerias Tercera Edad Center The Bucerias Senior Center is calling all party animals!

Join the gang for an afternoon of fun and bring your pet. Take part in the costume contest and fun dog show.

Food and drinks available; special treats for all participating dogs.

Admission is a suggested donation

website for the weekend lineup at www.chacalamusicfestival.com.

WesMex Regatta 2017 is headed our way on March 10th through the 12th. Our beautiful Banderas Bay is known for the best sailing conditions. It’s the 12th year for the International WesMex Regatta, which will also be a qualifier for the Mexican Sailing Team to represent the country in other competitions. Director Andy Barrow from the Vallarta Yacht Club states, “The Vallarta Yacht Club has been chosen as one of the national regattas in the Mexican circuit by the class of associations of Optimist, Laser, Windsurfers and the 420’s. Also, we are pleased to welcome the competitors in the 2017 Mexican Laser Masters Championship.” For more information visit www.wesmexregatta.org or contact Andy Barrow at www.vallartayachtclub.org.

Thanks for tuning in this week. As always, please contact me at Cat@RivieraNayaritFun.com for any questions. I am always happy to assist if I can. If you are interested in advertising your business in the largest English newspaper on the Banderas Bay and the Riviera Nayarit email me at CatPVTribune@ Gmail.com Thank you and AHO!

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

H

ey Everybody! The San Pancho Music Festival was a blast and all three days had a great turnout. I was only able to make it over on Sunday and thoroughly enjoyed myself listening to music, eating delicious Mexican cuisine and the margaritas were quite tasty! The show began with our local La Cruz boys Tatewari, fabulous as always! All of the bands sounded great, with another returning band I really enjoyed on the second stage, “Frida’s Eyebrow”.

Fun ukuleles, guitars; feel good music for the soul!

Music director Chas Eller, keyboard extraordinaire; owns a recording studio in Vermont (35 years experience) producing over 500LP’s / CD’s and so much more keeps the bands sound in check

and everyone on schedule. If you have an interest playing at the festival next year contact Chas Eller.

The free nonprofit music fest however is lacking in sponsorships.

SPMF needs more donations to remain a free venue. The musicians play for free. The entire staff works for free, many paying out of their own pockets until donations can come in. Picking them up from the airport, finding them places to stay; (many musicians stay with staff and friends) this all adds up. Board member Chris Parsons mentioned to me that if more funding does not come in they may need to look at charging people for entry, which would be a real bummer after all of these years!

If you can support this wonderful festival please do so by visiting their website. Thanks so much to ALL of

of MX $100. This event is in support of local spay and neuter programs.

All dogs on leash please!

Chacala Music and Arts Festival begins on Thursday, March 9th, begins at 5:30pm with a special collaboration with the Guanajuato International Film Festival, as well as the local scholarship school “El Jardin” free presentation including music, dance, and shadow theater.

The evening closes with the Chacala local resident’s country-soul duo that also brings in surprise performers for the occasion. Check out their new

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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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March 2 - 8, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

SEX PLEASE WE’RE SIXTY AN AMERICAN FARCE

by Michael Parker & Susan Parker

COMEDY DINNER THEATRE FOR CHARITY DATES: FEBRUARY 28, MARCH 1, 5, 7, 8 2017 TIMES: 4 evening performances, 1 matinee on Sunday, March 5 LOCATION: Restaurante Langosta DIEZ, La Cruz Centro DONATION TICKET PRICE: front row table reserved 800 MXN, general table 500 MXN, theatre seating 250 MXN PROCEEDS GO TO: benefit Amigos de La Cruz de Huancaxtle, A.C.

To buy tickets and for more information visit:

www.amigosdelacruz.org

AMIGOS

DE LA CRUZ

PRODUCED BY SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT WITH SAMUEL FRENCH, INC. w w w. a m i g o s d e l a c r u z . o rg

Children of Banderas Bay g

By Chris Amo

C

hildren’s Shelter of Hope Foundation’s Shoe Fairy has an amazing young assistant, 18 year old Micaela Hurtuk.

She has raised and donated several thousand dollars for shoes over the past few years, and came up with a wonderful new plan for providing shoes to children in need in Puerto Vallarta. Micaela, who is in 11th grade at Sage International Charter School in Boise, Idaho met Kenton Lee, this past summer, who has started a company called the Shoe That Grows (www.theshoethatgrows.org).

While living and working in Nairobi, Kenya in 2007, Kenton noticed a little girl with shoes that were too small and thought “Wouldn’t it be great if there was a shoe that could adjust and expand so that poor children would always have shoes that fit.” After five years of hard work, the Shoe That Grows was born and is now being distributed in many impoverished areas of the world.

These shoes are helping children who suffer from soil-transmitted diseases and parasites due to their living in areas that do not have adequate sanitation. And, a shoe that grows three sizes insures that these children will have shoes that fit for many years.

These shoes are made with the highest quality materials – compressed rubber (similar to that of a car tire), anti-bacterial synthetic, and high grade, tactical Velcro. They are easy to clean and easy to use or expand.

Thanks to Micaela’s efforts and some very generous donors, in early February, she and her family brought and distributed fifty pairs of these amazing shoes to some very excited and happy children and teens living in the impoverished

areas near New Beginnings.

In addition, Micaela raised almost $2000 more; allowing us to buy the “boxing class” students at New Beginnings new tennis shoes in addition to new shoes for many of our SOS scholarship students.

AND, the Shoe Fairy will have funds for more shoe purchases for children in need in Puerto Vallarta for many months to come.

THANK YOU, Micaela – you are a shining example of what young people with vision and determination can accomplish.

Children’s Shelter of Hope Foundation is a small, compassionate, “grassroots” US based 501(c)(3) tax-deductible charity dedicated to supporting the needs of disadvantaged children living in or near Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

Our main projects, at this time, are Pasitos de Luz, Corazón de Nina, and New Beginnings/Sendero. For more information about our foundation or to make a donation to help the Shoe Fairy or Micaela please visit our website at www.cshf-us. org or contact President Chris Amo at chris@cshf-us.org

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March 2 - 8, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

T S E W E THE N R AND BA S T R T SPO N A R U A T S E R Z U R C IN LA

FU LL MEN U GR EA T V IE W HAP P Y H OU R LI VE MUS IC SPOR TS

WHAT’S HAPPENING AT TESCALAMA Happy Hour: Everyday from 5:00-7:00pm 2x1 National Drinks, Beer Buckets 5 Bottles for $100 Pesos Half Price Pizzas on Wednesday Live Music: Zoe Wood every Thursday 7-9pm

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events

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March 2 - 8, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Love Bites: Popular Vote vs. Electoral th College at the 5 Annual Chili Cook Off

By Matt McCue

P

opular vote versus Electoral College came to Puerto Vallarta last weekend for the American Legion’s annual 5th Annual Chili Cook Off, where friends and neighbours competed against each other for the coveted title of ‘Best Chili ‘in the region all in support of the fundraising efforts of the American Legion. Funds raised support the Banderas Bay Women’s Shelter, American Legion Community Relations Projects and the Torpedos American Football Scholarship program.

The restaurants and individuals that entered the contest brought 20L of their best chili to El Rio BBQ this past Saturday for the American Legion’s fundraiser, so that 500+ attendees at the event could taste each of the entries and vote on their favourites.

Local artists performing include Mikki Prost doing some songs from her Patsy Cline tribute show, Nacho Daddy’s house band – Texas Embassy Blue Band, and Dave Whitty got energized the packed house with sing-alongs from Newfoundland and Ireland. If you have yet to attend a live show at El

Rio BBQ, you’re missing out. It’s a great venue with scheduled events happening most nights of the week.

The Chili Cook Off brought almost 20 entrants to compete their chili for the title of best chilli in Vallarta, and as a ‘Professional Chili Judge’ I tried each one. Other judges included Paul Meyer from Bang On/Vallarta Food Tours, Alex Mora from 105.9 FM, and Gary Beck (who couldn’t make it l and whose spot was filled last minute with a Chicago-based foodie).

Plates with 4-6 participating chilis were brought to us at a time, and we critiqued the samplers using our own rating systems. The system I had developed judged the chilis using 5 factors: consistency, heat, flavour, spice, texture.

The variations of the different chilis were quite extreme; many were true to the chili form while a couple of the entrants were venturing into curry or stew territory. A tip o’ the hat to the entrants who baked lil bread-bowls. That dedication was noted by those at the judges’ table.

The chilis had the chance to take home an award from either Popular Vote or Professional Judging. First place for the Popular Vote was Ron Abbe of the American Legion, with a chili that is rumoured to take four days to cook. Sean Moore and Tammy Carruthers Prust of Nacho Daddy took home first place for the Professional Judging. Second place in the Popular Vote category and for Professional Judging was D’Z Route 66. Lori Loree of Escondida Bar took

home third place for both Popular Vote and Professional Judging.

The real winners of the event, however, are the recipients of the projects funded by the Legion’s Chili Cook Off fundraiser: the residents of communities in need whose lives are positively affected by the Legion and its members, an extremely charitable group who do great things year-round.

Congratulations are in order to the American Legion and El Rio BBQ on another successful Chili Cook Off.

international friendship club

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March 2 - 8, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Follow the Money

By John Warren

Donating money is one thing. Making sure it is spent wisely is another.

IFC volunteers hold the charities the club supports accountable.

A

little money goes a long way in the impoverished colonias (municipal areas) of Puerto Vallarta where some of the roads are unpaved, water is drawn from a standpipe and homes are shacks made from cast-off building materials. It’s very important that donations to charities that serve the poor, the sick and the under-educated Mexicans in this city are spent effectively and that we get the best possible bang for our buck. That’s what the International Friendship Club (IFC) does.

It follows the money.

The club provides financial support to about twenty charities that are involved with providing services in medical, educational, cultural and social service areas that in other countries might be provided by government.

Each charity that IFC supports has a club member designated as a liaison person who is responsible for reporting to the club about the governance, operations and financial situation of the charity.

They meet with the CEO or other person operating the charity, tour the facility and complete a report.

Some of the information requested from the charities is: What type of organizational structure do you have? Are you an A.C. (registered not-for-profit)? Who are your board members? Who does the CEO report to? What is your mission statement? Can we have a copy of your latest financial statements?

Can IFC members provide volunteer help in some way?

The IFC Charities Liaison Committee recently met and heard from members who had visited the following charities: - CANICA is an organization that helps children with cancer, who need to travel for treatment on the bus to Guadalajara. The cost of the return bus tickets for a mother and child, food and transportation from bus station to hospital is $1,800 pesos. Some families must make the trip weekly. When in Guadalajara CANICA arranges billeting. Because children of school age miss school when they are travelling for treatment CANICA is looking for Spanish speaking volunteers to help them stay current with their schoolwork.

- Dives en Misericordia is a Roman Catholic run program that feeds poor children twice a day.

When the IFC member visited the facility the priest, who is the CEO, was not there. There were fourteen infants and children being looked after while their parents were out to work. A follow-up visit is planned.

-The Salvation Army is in Mojoernes, a place that suffers from chronic poverty, alcoholism and drug abuse. The Army is a social centre for families, adults and kids and feeds about 80 children two meals a day for five days a week. The Captain, Alberto, and his wife live on the premises and are

available in an emergency 24/7.

- Casa Hogar Maximo Cornejo is an orphanage/ group home.

The IFC liaison was a professional social worker for many years and speaks excellent Spanish. She reported that Maximo Cornejo appears to be well run and that all its paperwork and certificates are current. There are now about 40 children living there and they desperately need adult volunteers to hug the infants and to play with the older children because the children’s contact with adults, except for staff and school teachers, is very limited.

- Arroyos de Esperanza is in the Salatrio area of PV, another part of town wracked by poverty, and operates a community centre there and a number of satellites. Volunteer teachers help the children with math, science, Spanish and English. There is a huge demand for these services -The Women’s Shelter is desperately needed in this area.

The statistics for sexual abuse in Jalisco are very disturbing and it was reported that 13 and 14 year old girls are sold as sex slaves to older men. The goals of the shelter are to stabilize the women and children coming from a traumatic experience, teach the women a marketable trade and pay their rent to get a new start in life. The facility is currently under utilized due to the low rate of referrals coming from

2,000 Customers Prove Our Point

O

ver 2,000 people have purchased tickets for the IFC Home Tours to the end of February and we still have five weeks left in the season, so we anticipate that this season will be our best one since the tours began in 1986.

It would not be possible without the generosity of the home owners who lend us their homes for a couple of hours on Tuesday and Wednesday, the teams of volunteers that run the tours and the customers who give us glowing reviews on Trip Advisor.

Please join us. Tours start at the Sea Monkey restaurant on the beach at Aquiles Serdan at 10:30, so there’s plenty of time to have a pleasant breakfast before the buses leave. Please buy your tickets for the low price

the Jalisco medical authorities.

The above are some of the charities that IFC supports. The club tries to ensure that a little money goes a long way.

The club’s income comes from the sale of IFC Home Tour tickets (see separate article), member-

of $600 pesos at the IFC office (above HSBC bank on Insurgentes where it crosses the river) or online at www.ifctoursforvallarta.com before your tour date as seats on the luxury buses are limited.

Each bus is escorted by two well-informed docents and the tours visit four architecturally interesting homes in homes sprinkled around some of the secluded parts of Puerto Vallarta.

All profits of the tours are used to support the club’s cleft palate program that provides free surgery to children born with cleft palates and to help to about 20 charities and other programs in Puerto Vallarta.

By taking a tour you will be doing good and have a good time.

ship fees and fees from lessons and lectures. For more information about IFC please see www.ifcvallarta.com or visit the office which is located above HSBC bank, where Insurgentes crosses the river. For information about the Home Tours go to www.ifctoursforvallarta.com.

Where can I find the Vallarta Tribune?

Over the past month we have been making small changes to our distribution locations; hopefully making it easier for you to find a copy. The Tribune will be available for pick up at the tourist offices in the main plaza as well as in Park Lazaro Cardenas, in Puerto Vallarta. You can shop and pick up

a copy of the Tribune at the Friday Marsol Market, the Saturday Olas Altas Market and at the Amigo’s de La Cruz table at the La Cruz Sunday Market. In addition to all of our advertisers, look for the Vallarta 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.

Marina Vallarta: Benittos, The Coffee Cup, Re/Max, San Javier Hospital Nuevo Vallarta: Eddies, Barracuda’s, Nopalitos, US Consulate,

Chasers Sports Bar Bucerias: Mark’s, Sandrina’s, Yo-Yo Mo’s, Luna Lounge, Esquina 22 La Cruz: Oso’s Oyster Bar, Octopus Garden, Tescamala Sayulita: Don Pedro’s, Punta Sayulita, Choco Banana, Sayulita Wine Shop San Pancho: Hotel Cielo Rojo

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International Flair, A Feature at Mercado Los Mangos

By Paco Ojeda

O

ne of the perks of visiting Mercado Los Mangos on Saturdays is the unique opportunity to meet vendors from many parts of the world who have chosen Banderas Bay as their home. Such is the case of Argentineans Marcelo Walter Martin and his wife, Pamela, who moved to Vallarta ten years ago.

They operate a very successful Argentinean Steakhouse in Marina Vallarta and learned about Mercado Los Mangos through a friend. “We loved the project from day one and have been successful selling our homemade edibles since the very first Saturday,” comments Marcelo.

At Mercado Los Mangos, Pamela and Marcelo feature two traditional mainstays from their homeland: empanadas and choripan. “Empanadas are stuffed pastries that are fried or baked,” explains Marcelo. “The name comes from the Spanish verb empanar, which means, to wrap with bread.”

While empanadas are quite popular throughout many Latin American countries, those from Argentina stand aside due to their flavorful, savory fillings. “We make everything from scratch, the pastry, fillings and sauces to complement them” he comments, proudly. Three of their four varieties—beef, lamb with mint and spinach and cheese— come from Argentina. Given the local abundance of marine products, they introduced a local flavor: marlin. “We came up with a wonderful combination of flavors that includes butter, garlic, onion, tomato sauce, chipotle pepper,

cheese and, of course, marlin.” The empanadas are small enough, that one can easily try each one, to pick a favorite filling, or two.

Their other offering, choripan, is a type of sandwich with chorizo, or Argentinean sausage, as ubiquitous back home as tacos are in Mexico.

The name comes from the combination of chorizo, and pan, or bread, specifically a bolillo, or Mexican baguette. “Just about any corner of any city in Argentina features a choripan stand,” he comments.

Pamela and Marcelo offer their products at several mercados around the bay but are quite taken by the ambiance at Mercado Los Mangos.

“We love the variety of people that shop from us, from locals that live in the neighborhood to expats

that have chosen this area of Puerto Vallarta to live. We are better known in Riviera Nayarit, but thanks to Mercado Los Mangos, we are increasing our client base in Puerto Vallarta.”

Mercados Los Mangos is open every Saturday from 9:30 am to 2:00 pm through the last Saturday in May. It is located at Av. Francisco Villa 1001 in Colonia Los Mangos, just before the turn to Costco. Interested in becoming a Mercado Los Mangos vendor? Pick up an application at the information booth on Saturdays. You will also find plenty of copies of the Vallarta Tribune and P.V. Mirror. Questions?

Email mercadolosmango(at) gmail.com. To learn more about Biblioteca Los Mango’s academic and cultural offerings for children and adults, please visit BibliotecaLosMangos.com.

www.vallartatribune.com

OLD FURNITURE, NEW BEGINNINGS WE PICK IT UP AT YOUR DOOR!

LET YOUR DONATION OF GENTLY USED FURNITURE / HOUSEHOLD ITEMS HAVE A HUGE IMPACT THROUGH US! WE MAKE DONATION AS SIMPLE AS POSSIBLE, PICKING IT UP AT YOUR DOOR AND ISSUING A RECEIPT ON THE SPOT. IT HAS NEVER BEEN EASIER TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN OUR COMMUNITY! YOUR DONATIONS ALLOW US TO PROVIDE A SAFE, STABLE, LOVING HOME FOR 24 GIRLS - ALL FROM HIGH RISK SITUATIONS INCLUDING ABANDONMENT, ABUSE & EXPLOITATION - WHEREIN THEY NOW HAVE A SENSE OF PERMENANCE, ACCESS TO SCHOLARSHIPS FOR ALL LEVELS OF EDUCATION PLUS ONGOING COUNSELING, MEDICAL/DENTAL ATTENTION AND MORE

BY DONATING, YOU ARE HELPING US CHANGE THE COURSE OF HISTORY ONE GIRL AT A TIME!!

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL: 224 9209 322 217 2401, 322 180 8086 CASAHOGARCORAZONDENINA@HOTMAIL.COM WWW.FUNDACIONCORAZON.MX

charity

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March 2 - 8, 2017 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.

You can find all of our local charities online at vallartatribune.com

Amigos de La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, A.C. contributing to the quality of life in La Cruz through cultural, educational, environmental and charitable assistance programs.

Tax Deductible. www.amigosdelacruz.org Contact Amy

& Progreso with necessities and job training and English. slw2014nv@gmail.com Welch amywelchpdx@ comcast.net Alcoholics Anonymous: In English Puerto Vallarta Alanon Club - Basilio Badillo 329 recoverpv.com Amazing Grace Missions Assisting families in Magisterio

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.

Hello, we are here, to ensure your well-being.

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.

We have come to Puerto Vallarta now to offer you the best healthcare and well-being that our 45 years of experience can provide.

Casa Hogar - A shelter for orphaned, abandoned, disadvantaged or vulnerable children. Luz Aurora Arredondo at 221 1908, casahogar_maximocornejo@ hotmail.com Centro Comunitario SETACGLBT – 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.

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CROSSWORD SOLVE!

games

March 2 - 8, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com