Issue 1041, March 16 - 22, 2017

spca-pv

Adorable Dog for adoption Page 35

Riviera Nayarait

New Projects Coming Page 32

VallartaTribune.com

E E FR

Office : 322 222 6678 info@ronmorgan.net

CASA ALEMAN

www.ronmorgan.net

$1,199,000 USD

March 16 - 22, 2017 Year 20 Free Issue 1041

E D UI G

Casa Sirena – Stunning city retreat Page 08 BUYING FURNITURE IN MEXICO Page 12

Broadway’s Eric Krop at Incant Page 17

OLAS ALTAS FARMERS MARKET Page 09

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 display 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 16 - 22, 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

02

editorial

03

Editor’s

Note

editor@vallartatribune.com

Hello everyone,

Y

ou know what I did this week? I hired a personal trainer. Can you imagine?

Living in ‘paradise’ and working out?

Me neither but each year brings another five pounds and it’s either give up tacos al pastor or do something about it. A lovely woman at Riverfest found me and I might have agreed to something while under the influence. But I’m keeping my promise and will give it a shot. Will report back next week.

Speaking of Riverfest, last week I quoted the earnings for the three-day fundraiser for Pasitos de Luz as $150,000 mxn but in fact, it was more than double that at a record-breaking $311,438 pesos. Well done Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit – over 800 people took part in the festivities and helped raise much-needed cash for our most vulnerable children.

With Easter falling in April, the ‘high’ season is extended until the end of April. I have said farewell to a few snowbirds already, but it’s great to see so many are sticking around a little longer this year.

A report in this week’s Tribuna de la Bahia said that Vallarta has a ‘full house’ with over 90% occupancy and I believe it. It’s busy

everywhere. The company that manages Puerto Vallarta’s international airport (GAP) released a report saying that traffic for their airports is up over 10%. I suspect it’s because the dollar is so high and the winter seems to be never ending up north. Regardless, if you’re here let’s find you something to do!

This week greets us with another varied selection of events. What are you feeling up to? Almost every day of the week has a farmer’s market you can attend. Thursday evening in the Marina, Saturday’s in Old Town or at the Los Mangos Library, Tuesday’s in Nuevo. The Friday market in Sayulita is one of my faves. Excellent selection of food and things you can’t find in any of the other markets. Plenty of info on these pages on the various markets, as well as shopping in Puerto Vallarta.

Now if you’re more inclined to theatre productions, Incanto in Old Town has something happening every night; the Boutique Dinner Theater offers a unique dinner and a show experience; and Luna Lounge in Bucerias and El Rio up in Paso Ancho both continue to the end of the month with their very popular tribute artist shows.

We also have a gospel charity event to raise money for hungry children in Nuevo Vallarta.

On Saturday the 18th is the fundraiser dinner at Secrets Vallarta Bay for RISE – the children’s orphanage. Starting at 5pm there is an auction and formal dinner.

Tickets are $800 and can be pre-purchased at Fredy Tucan, Daiquiri Dick’s and Ernesto’s Good Grub.

Sunday the 19th we have another edition of River of Arte, this time being held in the main concourse at La Isla Shopping centre. There are over 35 artists ex-

pected to showcase their art and a portion of proceeds from sales goes to support animal rescue.

Once again the city of Vallarta has failed to provide timely information but a little birdie has told me at a Raicilla Festival is happening on Isla Cuale over the weekend. If you’re not familiar with Raicilla, it is a more rustic version of Tequila and Mezcal. Made from locally grown Agave and produced around El Tuito, San Sebastian and Tomatlan, this potent drink has a long history of removing paint in Vallarta. I joke. It’s an extremely old, traditional sipping spirit and it’s being recognised internationally as an endemic part of the culture of Jalisco.

There are conferences and such taking place during the day but after 5 pm on both Saturday and Sunday, local mixologists will be serving unique cocktails at the Taberna Cuale (Cultural Institute of Vallarta).

Stop by and try something new.

I promise, no timeshare.

Let me ask you something.

How long have you been coming to Banderas Bay? Do you have any special memories? Did you get married here perhaps or hon-

March 16 - 22, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

eymooned? Maybe you and your family have been coming here for generations.

Well, on March 30 the Tribune will be publishing a special edition that celebrates our twentieth anniversary and I am inviting all readers who have stories, memories, photos and more to submit them for possible inclusion in the newspaper. If you send them to me by March 22 at the email address under my photo, I will do my best to see that they all get published.

I really look forward to hearing about your travels to this fair bay over the years.

Did you know Raicilla pre-dates

the arrival of Hispanic people in the country? It takes 10 kgs of agave to make one litre of Raicilla and an agave must grow for five to seven years before it is ready to harvest.

Traditionally raicilla has been created and sold as a “moonshine” product without government sanction or approval. If it’s not watered down it is usually more than 100 proof. It’s particularly tasty served with pineapple juice and a little chile. Andale! Mexico is a country of great flavour – get out and explore!

Safe travels, Madeline

news

04

March 16 - 22, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Amazon Prime ships off to Mexico Subscribers in Mexico can now get unlimited shipping on over 20 million products, as well as Amazon’s Prime Video streaming service.

A

mazon’s hugely popular Prime membership service launched Tuesday in Mexico.

Mexican Prime subscribers can now get unlimited shipping on over 20 million products, as well as Amazon’s Prime Video streaming service.

The price of the service is 899 pesos (about $46) a year, but for the next six months Amazon will be offering a promotional rate of 449 pesos for the first year of membership. The service is also free to test out for the first 30 days.

Prime’s arrival in Mexico points to the continuing growth of online retail in the country, where companies including Home Depot and Lowe’s have been expanding their internet operations. The launch also shows Amazon’s interest in keeping up the growth of Prime, which is now in 13 countries. Before Mexico, the latest country to get Prime service was China in October.

Amazon launched Amazon. com.mx four years ago, but first sold only e-books on the site. Two years ago, it expanded the site’s inventory to include consumer electronics, sporting goods, DVDs, books, baby items, tools, appliances, beauty and grooming products, and many other categories.

Amazon said Tuesday that unlimited one-day shipping via Amazon’s Mexico operations is available for certain items shipped

to Mexico City, Guadalajara, Puebla and Querétaro, and unlimited two-day shipping is available in much of the rest of the country.

Millions more products are available at no additional shipping cost through Amazon’s US warehouses, but will arrive in six to nine days.

In addition to Mexico and China, Prime is available in the US, Canada, the UK, Spain, Italy, France, Belgium, Germany, Austria, India and Japan.

news

05

Mexico Confident of Timely Start to NAFTA Re-Negotiation

M

exico’s economy secretary said last Friday his government is confident that negotiations to revise the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) will begin as soon as possible.

Ildefonso Guajardo commented during a joint press conference with US Commerce Secretary

Wilbur Ross, who stressed that by law, President Donald Trump’s administration must allow at least 90 days for consultations with Congress before launching formal talks.

“The next stage will be – hopefully sometime in the next couple of weeks – issuing the 90-day (consultation) letter,” Ross said.

“That’s what triggers the beginnings of the formal process itself.

We don’t have a date certain for that. We’ve been in discussion with the – Senate finance committee and the House ways and means committee,” the commerce secretary said.

March 16 - 22, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Trump has criticized the 1994 pact linking the economies of the United States, Mexico, and Canada, calling it unfair to US workers and industries.

The Mexican government’s NAFTA consultation process is well under way, Guajardo said Friday.

“We’ll be ready by the end of May to start negotiations at any point. Therefore we will just be waiting for the US and Canada to finish their own ... process to kick

off negotiations,” he said.

Ross, however, raised the possibility that the process will not involve three-sided negotiations.

“It will either be two parallel bilaterals, with symmetrical provisions. Or one new trilateral. We’re less concerned at this stage with the exact form than we are with trying to get to the substance,” he said.

Mexico has made it clear that it would prefer a trilateral approach to updating NAFTA.

news

06

Mexico Could Become Top Buyer of US Goods, Economist Says

E

conomist Luis de la Calle said in an interview with EFE on Tuesday that if President Donald Trump does not destroy North American integration, Mexico could become the No. 1 buyer of US goods in five years and a platform for American businesses to conquer the Chinese market.

De la Calle, a former economy undersecretary and trade official at the Mexican Embassy in Washington, has become one of the go-to people in this country since Trump proposed revising the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).

The economist helped design NAFTA, which took effect on Jan. 1, 1994, and created a trade bloc among the US, Mexico and Canada.

Trump has called NAFTA the “worst trade deal in the history” of the US. De la Calle, for his part, said it would take several months to start talks on overhauling NAFTA due to institutional obstacles in the US. “To start, negotiations require notifying Congress 90 days in advance,” a step normally taken by

Starbucks set to open its 600th cafe in MX

the US trade representative, De la Calle said.

Robert Lighthizer, who was tapped by Trump for the critical trade post, “has still not been confirmed by the Senate” since he needs “a waiver” from Congress because did work for foreign governments – Brazil and China – in the past, the economist said.

The administration must then publish the agreement with Congress on the goals of the nego-

tiations in the Federal Register and let a period of 30 days pass, De la Calle said.

Trump’s threat to impose a 35 percent tariff on automobiles imported from Mexico is “completely hollow,” but the message had an effect on the value of the peso and Mexican securities markets, De la Calle said.

The financial markets, however, “are learning that Donald Trump’s tweets are not public policy,” the economist said.

A US exit from NAFTA would would require the parties to adopt tariffs agreed to under the World Trade Organization (WTO), De la Calle said.

“When we reached the treaty 25 years ago, Mexico was a closed economy and the United States an open economy. We’re the ones who have opened up,” the trade expert said.

De la Calle noted that “China is the top exporter to the United States and does not have an FTA with them,” while “Mexico is a big buyer in the United States.”

“Today, we’re the No. 2 market in the world for the US and in five years, if Trump doesn’t wreck the relationship, we’ll be the No. 1,” De la Calle said.

Original: LAHT.com

Air Traffic up 10%

C

alls for a boycott appear to have been ignored by fans of the chain’s products If anyone’s boycotting Starbucks in Mexico it’s not having any effect on the coffee company’s growth in this country.

There were calls in January for boycotts of various American brands that operate in Mexico in response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s plans regarding trade, the border wall and remittance payments by Mexican workers.

One of the suggested targets was Starbucks, whose Mexican franchise holder, the restaurant operator Alsea, will open the brand’s 600th outlet next week.

So far this year, 10 new Starbucks have opened in Mexico, and Alsea plans to maintain the pace, opening 50-55 new outlets every year.

Ten years ago Starbucks had just 110 outlets in Mexico.

The coffee shop is Alsea’s biggest brand in terms of sales, representing 22% of the company’s total. Others are Burger King at 21% and Domino’s Pizza and Vips, both 15%.

G

rupo Aeroportuario del Pacifico, S.A.B. de C.Vor “GAP” announced preliminary terminal passenger traffic figures for the month of February 2017, compared to traffic figures for February 2016.

During February 2017, total terminal passengers increased 10.9% in the Company’s 13 airports, including Puerto Vallarta’s PVR, compared to the same period of the previous year. Domestic passenger traffic increased by 14.9%, while international passenger traffic increased by 6.3%.

In February 2017, GAP registered an 11.6% increase in the number of seats available compared to February 2016. Load factors for the month decreased

by 0.5 percentage points, from 77.2% in February 2016 to 76.7% in February 2017.

New Routes were added including: Guadalajara to Miami: Volaris, Puerto Vallarta to Oakland: Southwest and Los Cabos to Oakland: Southwest Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico, S.A.B. de C.V. (GAP) operates 12 airports throughout Mexico’s Pacific region, including the major cities of Guadalajara and Tijuana, the four tourist destinations of Puerto Vallarta, Los Cabos, La Paz and Manzanillo, and six other mid-sized cities: Hermosillo, Guanajuato, Morelia, Aguascalientes, Mexicali and Los Mochis.

Original: businesswire.com

March 16 - 22, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Mexico Wraps Up Round One Oil Auctions

M

exico’s National Hydrocarbons Commission (CNH) presided over the signing of seven deepwater exploration and production contracts on Friday, bringing an end to the country’s historic Round One series of oil auctions.

The contracts were for blocks located in the Gulf of Mexico: three in the Perdido Fold Belt, a 40,000 sq.-kilometer (15,450 sq.-mile) area located in the northwestern part of the Gulf; and four in the Saline Basin, situated in the southern part of the Gulf.

The blocks were all awarded in early December.

The seven contracts are in addition to one signed last week by Mexican state oil company Petroleos Mexicanos (Pemex), American oil supermajor Chevron Corp. and Japan’s Index that marked the first time Pemex had formed a consortium to compete for a block under a 2013 energy-sector overhaul ending the company’s nearly eight-decade monopoly.

Each of the contracts has a 35-year life span, but they can be extended for additional periods of 10 years and then five years.

In the Perdido Fold Belt, a unit of China National Offshore Oil Corporation signed contracts for Block 1 and Block 4, while a consortium made up of the local unit of France’s Total and the United States’

Exxon Mobil Exploration signed one for Block 2.

In the Saline Basin, a consortium made up of Norway’s Statoil, the United Kingdom’s BP Exploration and Total’s local unit signed contracts for Block 1 and Block 3.

A consortium made up of a unit of Malaysia’s Petronas, PC Carigali Mexico Operations; and Mexico’s Sierra Offshore Exploration signed a contract for Block 4, while a consortium made up of US energy company Murphy Oil’s local unit, the UK’s Ophir Energy, PC Carigali and Sierra Offshore inked another for Block 5.

Mexico’s energy sector, which has suffered a steady decline in crude output for more than a decade, will receive a major boost from oil production giants as a result of the Round One auctions, Energy Secretary Pedro Joaquin Coldwell said.

The companies that signed the contracts “are fully qualified and have the capital and experience to undertake projects of these dimensions (in which) there is no room for experimentation or error,” Coldwell said.

The seven blocks encompass a total area of 17,000 sq. kilometers and contain prospective hydrocarbon reserves estimated at 2 billion barrels of crude oil equivalent. www.laht.com

07

local

Finding

Paradise

your happy life Rhonda Zarate

and Parenting Leza Warkentin

rhondazaratelifestyle@gmail.com

mommyinmexico.wordpress.com

The Gift of Clarity

The “tween” stage of childhood has its own challenges, but there are ways to enjoy it if you’re willing to get creative.

F

inally, I have figured out what a gift clarity is. When you have clarity, you have it all!

You clearly know what to do, what road to take, what decisions to make. Life suddenly becomes so easy. Why does it take us so long to figure this out?

Is it maturity, life lessons, or do we simply stumble upon this, I don’t know the right and perfect answer to that. I just know when you start to live your life by how you feel instead of what you think and what others think you should do, everything becomes so much sweeter.

Why on earth do we give others so much power over our lives?

Why does their opinion trump your opinion, what makes them smarter than ourselves?

So much wasted energies spent worrying about this going back and forth from this person to another person, seeking to find the golden answer to what you should do.

I am not advising to not to seek wise, trusted counsel but asking 50 people what you should do is simply ridiculous!

I think clarity should be tagged with the word freedom every time it is said; it is such a glorious feeling being free from nagging doubt in one’s life.

You know how you know you have made the perfect and right decision for yourself? It will just feel 100% right; this is called living life in the sweet spot. When you waffle back and forth about a major life decision, it can eat away at being in the present moment and savouring the happy day you are having.

I know that in life there are big decisions that need making, these decisions are a big deal in the unfolding of your life. My suggestion is, see if it ‘feels’ like you are swimming downstream in the flow or are you paddling upstream against the flow of the current, going backwards.

This feeling will be an indication that you are doing the right thing.

Make the decision, get your sense of clarity then move on.

For so many, a decision to make a move regarding where your

March 16 - 22, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

The Tween Years

I home will be is a biggie. It is even bigger if you are moving to a foreign country where you do not speak the language. Yikes!

Years ago I woke up one morning realized I needed to make some life altering decisions, I found the clarity I needed to make this move, took the plunge and did just that. I sold every single thing I owned: house, car, furniture, packed up a two-year-old and a five-year-old and moved to Costa Rica. Good lord, I look back now and think, “Wow, big guts girl!!!” It just felt right; it felt exhilarating, fresh; I felt alive.

A lot of people thought we were crazy, but with my best friend clarity in my back pocket, I did it, much to many surprise and lots of people’s chatter! When it feels right, you just have to do it. On a side note, in my opinion, Mexico kicks serious butt to Costa Rica.

The food, the easy access, the people - viva Mexico!

The next time you find yourself ping-ponging back and forth for days on a decision, sit down, quiet your mind, listen to your heart and just pull the trigger, do it! Life is too short my friends to not follow your happy heart.

Homework: Start practicing making decisions for yourself without asking ten people their opinion on what you should do.

Become your own best counsel.

always thought that writing about my young, preschool children would be far more interesting than writing about my children as they approached their teen years. In some ways that’s true, because pre-teen children could actually sit in one place for entire days without moving as long as there was a digital product in their hands.

But if you remove the product and coax words out of their mouths, it can be fascinating.

Plus, when they were preschoolers, they thought it was fun and cool to help parents do chores, and now they find it overwhelming to lift a bag of groceries from the back of the car, so that’s always a topic for discussion.

They invented a new term for pre-teen children that is fun, called “tween”. It’s clever in that it’s a play on both “teen” and “between”. And it puts a cute label on the person sitting before you, incredulous that you don’t trust him with his own cell phone, but is still uncertain of how to make a peanut butter sandwich.

I have a twelve-year-old and a ten-year-old. They are twenty months apart, so any particular developmental phase is dealt with over about three years (giving everyone time to process) and then we can move on. Living in the diaper phase for nearly four years was a bit of a struggle, but mostly I’m grateful for the close age spread.

Currently we are dealing with the fact that the twelve-year-old is nearly eye level with his father and I. The Boy is enjoying this, and we are girding ourselves, because it’s a whole other skill, looking up to your child while really Speaking Down, if you know what I mean. The Girl, not to be outdone, shot up about

two inches since Christmas, and is gangling around the house, complaining of joint pain.

I am a bit beside myself, I’ll be honest. I still think they say the cutest things, although I’m not sure if I should still put them on Facebook or not because it’s almost always politically controversial. That’s because they are both young, opinionated, and lead by their very current emotions, which could change dramatically by the time I hit “post”.

That being said, I would be remiss if I didn’t at least try to offer some advice on dealing with the tween years. A lot of people don’t really talk about it, because they aren’t even aware that such a stage exists.

But if you have a child whose age ranges from about nine to about twelve, here are some ways you can deal with the drama and beauty of these children on the verge of something even more trying.

Don’t ask them “How was school?” In tween language, this means “What did you DO

NOW?” and they will be offended (even though they probably DID do something now). Instead, try asking “What was the best/ worst/annoying/hilarious part of your day?” They will still answer “nothing” but they won’t be suspicious.

They don’t want to do any chores and they will probably try to pull the “but I’m just a kid” card.

That’s because they are smarter now, which means they are older, which means they can definitely do chores.

Don’t fall for the “Oh, every time I do dishes I turn your floor into a sea of rinse water so I better not do the dishes” trick. Put the mop suggestively beside them and walk away.

They are trying out lingo that you don’t understand, solely for the purpose of you not understanding. It’s a slick move, but the internet is a wonderful learning tool. For example, my son says “noob” a lot, and I can tell you that this stands for “newbie” as in, someone who is inexperienced at something (in this case, usually a video game in which he is very experienced).

They still want that noob stuff like being cuddled and tucked into bed, but if they ask, they will look like noobs (Now I’m overusing the term, which is probably a noob move). So that’s where you step up as a parent and hug them as they grin and try to protest, and you enjoy the moment where the tween is still your little child for a while longer.

Unite in the movement

# sinpopote

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

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

Please take care of your environment and stop using straws.

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

local

08

In Search of Authentic Flour Tortillas

by Paco Ojeda

W

hile the ubiquitous corn tortilla—the staple of Mexican cuisine— predates the arrival of Europeans to the Americans, wheat flour tortillas, or simply flour tortillas, are not indigenous to pre-hispanic tribes. They are, in fact, an innovation created by exiled Sephardi Jews, who considered corn meal as non-kosher, so they used an unleavened, water based dough to produce them. Nowadays, they are readily available in supermarkets and convenience stores all over the country, but purists argue that, in order to enjoy the best flour tortillas in Mexico, you have to head northern states, where humidity and altitude play a key role in their making, whether it is by hand at home, or through an industrial machine.

Patricia García of La Regia Flour Tortillas can attest to this fact. Originally from Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, her enterprise has been producing homemade flour tortillas for local hotels and restaurants since 2000.

Both Patricia and her husband are certified nutriologists. When they found themselves looking for a business niche that would help them support their growing family, they began adapting the traditional northern recipe for the local climate with excellent results.

In recent years, they have added a new twist: flour tortillas flavored with basil, chipotle pepper, parsley, as well as gluten-free varieties. In addition, they decided to bring their products to Mercado Los Mangos with excellent results. “We set up shop on the first Saturday Mercado Los Mangos opened, and it’s been amazing since

March 16 - 22, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Guillermo Gómez Macias celebrates 20 years exhibiting at Galleria Dante, Friday March 24th, 2017!

G then,” she commented. “Six Saturdays later, we have regular customers that come back on a weekly basis.”

La Regia also sells buñuelos, made from a yeasted dough that is deep-fried, then covered with powdered sugar and cinnamon.

While they are usually served primarily during the Christmas season, she has found that they are a popular item year-around. “We started selling on an ongoing basis some two years ago, and now people look for them all the time,” she added.

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.

uillermo was born with the gift to communicate through sculpture. Born in Guadalajara, Jalisco, he was 27 when he completed a degree in agronomy, then decided to devote 100% of his attention to an immense passion for art. He also visited as many art exhibitions and constantly vibrated with the artwork he saw. Thus began his journey as a self-taught artist appreciating situations, trying to describe the human spirit through body language. Guillermo wants the public to interpret the characters in his sculptures and hold an internal dialog with them. Therefore he attends his own exhibitions as much as possible, as he enjoys all the feedback he receives from those who are viewing his works. Gómez works every day to hone his communication via sculpture and also endeavors to contribute to the evolution of thinking in the human race. His commitment and discipline can be felt in each one of his sculptures.

Gómez honors the ability to navigate in life despite hardships or happenstance. “We need to appreciate those tiny details in our daily life,” he says, “and not give such great importance to the things we can’t do anything about.” Never lacking in humor, he not only pokes fun at

those around him but also at himself.

In fact, if there is a secret to his work, it’s that he allows himself to laugh.

The tragedy of chains, of life lived in a cage, of bound hands and feet might be depicted, but with humor.

With his sensitive use of bronze, “the most malleable of materials,” he speaks without words.

Guillermo has been credited with having the talent of the old master sculptors of Italy and France.

Guillermo often comes to the ocean for his inspiration. He comments, “Although I live in Guadalajara, it’s in Puerto Vallarta that I really feel alive.”

Since his first exhibition in 1988 Gomez has been extremely well received here in Puerto Vallarta.

Over the years, he has also completed numerous commissions

for public works, four of which have been installed along the Malecon in La Paz, Baja California. Reflects Gomez, “When you are fortunate to get the attention of the public, it becomes important what you say.

You have a certain responsibility. Your work becomes a testimony to that community.” His most recent public work is entitled: La Exploracion de la Baja“ (a tribute to surveyor Juan Jose Matute & his mule Sofia) holds a place of honor in the small community of Triunfo, Baja California. He was also commissioned to do sculptures for the Whitehouse in USA and the Vatican in Rome.

Gomez can spend years creating some of his sculptures. It starts with an idea, though sometimes the total vision does not conceptualize completely for a couple of years, however this is not surprising as this talented artist is known to be a perfectionist. He is also celebrated for his unique combination of various mediums in the same piece, often combining bronze with silver, wood, metal, coins, chains, rock or gold.

Galleria Dante has proudly represented Gomez in Puerto Vallarta since 1997. Come meet Guillermo and his lovely wife, Lourdes! Be sure not to miss opening night on March 24th. Cocktails 6 to 10 pm

Featured Property of the Week

Casa Sirena – Stunning city retreat 4 bedrooms, 4.5 bath, 3,529 sq.ft. $419,990usd

This absolutely gorgeous custom home showcases contemporary architecture and top quality details. The kitchen is a showcase of modern elegance; granite counters, stainless appliances, wine cooler. The spectacular outdoor terrace features covered dining, professional barbeque/outdoor kitchen and heated saline “infi-

nity-edge” swimming pool and fountain. Marble floors, granite counters, custom windows and doors and soaring ceilings are just some of the features of this unique and elegant home. The spacious bedrooms all feature in-suite bathrooms, separate air conditioning, private terraces and ample closets. Some other features of this impeccable property include: home

office or a fifth bedroom on main floor, elegant powder room, staff/storage/laundry area, state-of-art security system, zoned air conditioning, solar water heating, water purification system and manicured tropical gardens. www.boardwalkrealt ypv. com/properties/casa-sirena/

Olas Altas Farmers’ Market This week at the Farmers’ Market you will find great things!

Meet Sasha and Antonia of Hecho in Mexico Pasteleria Bakery

By Mary Stehley

S

pizza, meat pies and baked goods, as well as musical instruments, blown glass, baskets, tapestries, soaps, jewelry, clothes, nut butters, sprouts, cheeses and fermented foods.

It is open from 9:30 to 2:00 in the Lazaro Cárdenas Park in Vallarta’s Emiliano Zapata neighborhood every Saturday from the first Saturday in November to the last Saturday in April.

LAZ

ARO

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

TIA

BA S

NO

B I L IO

A DI

IGNACIO L. VALLARTA

Vallarta on Tuesdays, Bucerias on Wednesdays, and Marina Vallarta on Thursday nights. Special orders may be placed at 322 189 7445 or tu_postre@yahoo. com. Delivery anywhere in the Bay of Banderas is available. The Olas Altas Farmers’ Market offers 90 booths of “Handmade and Homegrown” goodies as well as prepared foods such as tamales, tacos, homemade ice cream, paella,

AS DEN R A C

PINO SUAREZ

asha and Antonio Lozada are the owners of Hecho in Mexico Pasteleria Bakery.

Antonio learned to bake in a four-diamond bed and breakfast in upstate New York and Sasha was in charge of finding interesting recipes. The bakery was founded in 2011 when Sasha and Antonio decided to move to Puerto Vallarta.

They started selling their baked goods at small markets.

They quickly gained a reputation for quality American style desserts. As they developed their product line they introduced gluten free cakes and breads, including their best seller, the flourless chocolate-orange

cake. One summer when Antonio was cooking breakfast, he made the flourless delight for some guests.

They asked to speak to the baker and told him that it was the second best cake they had ever tasted.

“Which was the best?”

Antonio asked. “We bought one at a farmer’s market in Puerto Vallarta while on vacation last year.”

Needless to say, they were talking about Antonio’s flourless chocolate-orange cake.

Their desserts include orange buns, cakes, assorted cookies, quick breads, bread pudding and gluten free white and multi grain breads.

Hecho in Mexico can also be found at the La Cruz market on Sundays, Nuevo

L LO

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

10

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

Miscellaneous Medical Missives

O

ne of the items that seem to have really “surfaced” more these past few months is the plethora of misinformation out there – or what I call the “Jungle Drums”. Though I have mentioned the following in numerous talks and articles, I thought I would do a re-cap!

• Everyone needs to take Vermox if they have a stomach ache. FALSE. Vermox is very toxic to the liver – add a couple of cocktails and BOOM – your liver will not be happy. If you think you have a parasite or some other critter, have a stool sample and see what shows up. Then seek the proper treatment.

• Medicare is accepted here as a form of payment. FALSE. Medicare pays squat outside of the United States BUT one’s Medicare supplement (Medi-gap policy) will most likely REIMBURSE someone at approximately 80%. And we are happy to assist you in preparing your claim.

• There have been an extra abundance of people with bronchial/lung infections the past couple of months. A quick injec-

tion at a Doc in the Box will fix everything! FALSE. MOST of the time, the injections include steroids which will, of course make someone feel better, for a few days.

Then the symptoms return. Note: I am NOT a physician. This is from my working closely with our pulmonary specialist and having a huge amount of people end up being admitted with this “creepin’ crud” after weeks of self-medication (or wrong medicating).

• You will receive your itemized bill and medical records for an inpa-

March 16 - 22, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

tient stay in English. FALSE. They will be in Spanish. Demanding them in English from the hospital will not change this.

• Healthcare Resources charges patients for any services, such as making appointments, preparing an insurance claim, etc. FALSE FALSE FALSE. As well, one does not need to be a PLUS member to receive our services. TRUE. • Morphine is easy to purchase here. FALSE. It must be obtained by a licensed (special license) physician and ordered.

• We have a large number of cases of Zika in Puerto Vallarta.

FALSE. • Most doctors will answer a Whatsapp, text or email in a timely manner. FALSE. Appointments are to be made via either Healthcare Resources or the physician’s receptionist.

Sunday rolls around and it is time for me to write an article.

Throughout the week, ideas pop into my head randomly but then, when it comes time to actually do it, I draw a blank. I would love to have some ideas from you readers!

Send them on!

Here’s to a very fulfilling week!

Two Expats in Mexico Paul Kurtzweil www.qroo.us

Paul Kurtzweil (Q-Roo Paul) is a former lieutenant from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office in Florida. During his 25-year career, he received numerous commendations to include two of the agency’s top honors: a Meritorious Service Medal and a Medal of Valor. In 2015, Paul retired and moved to Mexico with his wife. He now spends his day’s blogging from the beach.

Moving to Mexico: Why We Decided to Buy Instead of Rent

R

eaders of the blog often ask me why we chose to buy property in Mexico instead of simply renting a place.

I considered writing an article about the pros and cons of doing both – but that topic has been beaten to death. If you Google it, you will receive over 27,000,000 responses – I know, I did it.

Besides, an article like that still wouldn’t answer the question why “we” decided to buy a place in Mexico.

I can tell you that the decision was made only after carefully analyzing data and information from a wide range of sources and then scouting the area. My wife and I are fiscal

conservatives and we only invest in something if the probability of a successful return is very high.

Just in case you’re curious what type of data and information I reviewed, here is a quick rundown (feel free to skip this part): Historical data and projections related to population and economic growth; crime statistics; government investment and projected investment in infrastructure; real estate law; currency exchange rates and projections; environmental protection laws and possible impact on future construction in the area; medical services and facilities; price comparisons; probability of future rental income; and tax law (capital gains

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

local

11 and property).

This amount of research might sound excessive to some people but it was necessary to give us both peace of mind.

Summary of Analysis Although the data overwhelmingly supported the decision to buy a property as opposed to renting, we still planned to rent unless we could find the perfect place that checked some additional boxes on our combined wish list.

Through a combination of great luck and even better timing, we stumbled across the perfect place for us near Akumal, Quintana Roo. Paul, What About Conditions Today?

If I stopped the article here, at least one reader would inevitably ask me the question above, so here is my answer: Although I don’t dedicate as much time to researching real estate conditions as I did before we bought, I still keep up with current events that would affect our investment. Saying that, the conditions are still favorable to invest in real estate in certain areas of Mexico. This area actually reminds me a lot of south Florida in the early 1980’s before the price of real estate shot up.

Let’s Wrap This Up The purpose of this article was not to convince anyone to buy a property in Mexico; rather, it was to explain why two highly fiscally conservative people would invest in a property located in another country.

So far, I think the investment was a sound one. We have lived here over a year and we have had two offers to buy the condo at a price above what we paid. The condo isn’t for sale but that doesn’t stop people from asking to buy it.

We know that we could sell it now and make a profit but we love the place too much to leave. We found a lot more than an investment property – we found a tight community of amazing people.

I pondered making a comment about how “priceless” that is but I resisted because it seemed a bit cliché.

It is nice to know that when we are ready to sell it, we should have significantly more return on our investment than we would have had if we had invested in bonds or left it in a savings account.

Of course nothing in this world is certain except for death and taxes.

We are hopeful that people won’t get tired of the warm, turquoise waters of the Caribbean anytime soon. But if they do, the worst case scenario is that we have to keep living in this beach paradise forever. I think we could handle that option.

March 16 - 22, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

From Repeal and here Replace this Taco!

Marcia Blondin

Orlando Gotay, Tax Attorney

marciavallarta@gmail.com

tax@orlandogotay.com

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

W

T

he coffers of the Los Mangos Library were bumped up last Thursday with “Que Viva el Canto” that was held at the Sheraton. Thanks go to the Sheraton Hotel for giving the space, decorating the chairs and making the fundraiser a huge success. I haven’t heard any numbers but if they were not sold out it was very close.

Busy night and my word, what a soprano!

Yael Jimenez is young, beautiful, classy and stylish and has one of those rare voices that seem effortless. I don’t know how many recitals/concerts, etc., where I have sat holding my breath while each high note was preceded by huge deep breaths, agonized facial expressions and so on and so forth…not Yael.

She barely opens her mouth and the notes flow easily like crystal clear water. And, how her voice changed with language: from the back of her throat in German, light and open in Italian. She was glorious!

Tenor Jose Maria Aguirre was offstage for most of the evening however, he was impressive in the duet with Yael from Traviata and in one of the encores! (There were two and three standing ovations!)

Oh, for a fabulous grand piano and a fine set of formal tails for maestro Hector Acosta who accompanied the two singers and

did an amazing job on the upright piano.

I hope we will see and hear more from these three Mexican virtuosos.

You can see his work on the Malecon and in Lazaro Cardenas Park and now Jim Demetro has opened his own gallery/studio!

He is also accepting students who want to learn how to sculpt.

His huge, open space is right next door to Page in the Sun on Lazaro Cardenas and right across the street from the Park. Do stop in, have a tour, wish him well, sign up for some lessons and buy something unique, handmade and signed by this extraordinary artist.

Until next time, that’s it From Here.

ell, we got the big enchilada: The bill that, if enacted, would repeal Obamacare.

Of course I can’t explain it all to you in 500 words, but here’s some highlights that I thought could be of interest. Please note these are proposals. What does come out of the sausage factory may be very different.

Individual mandate: The bill would eliminate the penalty payable to the IRS for not having coverage.

Most expats were exempt from the Obamacare penalty (and thus coverage requirement) by meeting expat tests. However, the replacement appears to only deal with the mandate elimination. Instead it imposes a mandatory penalty (a 30% mandatory increase in premiums) if a person has a break in coverage of over 63 days. I can’t find how the replacement excludes expats from the new “penalty” of increased premiums, by perhaps deeming them “covered” or through another mechanism. More research needed.

What about the employer mandate to provide health care?

Gone. Large employers would no longer be required to provide insurance. Much is being talked about the “refundable credit” in the replacement

to help pay for coverage. The allegation is that the credit would not pay for as much healthcare as Obamacare. In the unlikely eventuality you had “excess credit” the bill provides it would be refundable and could end up in a Health Savings Account. No, you could not buy tequila with that. If you are one of those folks in the “we’ll take your passport away for owing too much tax” category, guess what: You would not get the credit refunded to your health care account.

Another quirk: If you earn too much, the credit wafts away. In figuring how much “haircut” your credit would get, once you go above a certain level, your non-taxable interest and your non-taxable social security income would come in to the computation. If you would be so lucky, your credit would get at least a 10% haircut.

Good news if you have high income: many of the Obamacare taxes would be repealed, some retroactive to 2016. Gone would be the 0.9% Medicare surcharge on wages above $200,000 and the 3.8% Net Investment Income tax.

There’s good news for some.

We don’t know for sure how many of these proposals will end up becoming law. It bears watching how this shapes out. It may affect us all. Stay tuned.

Join us on these amazing journeys: ARGENTINA September 29-October 09-2017 Fascinating, Breathtaking, Exciting Visiting Buenos Aires, Iguazu Falls and Mendoza Wine Country A Seductive Adventure

CUBA November 04-11-2017 Captivating , Colorful, Intoxicating Visiting Havana, Pinar de Rio, Varadero Beach Unforgettable cultural experience

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

local

12

March 16 - 22, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

5 Tips on buying furniture for your home in Mexico

B

uying comfortable, wellmade, and reasonably priced furniture for your Vallarta/ Nayarit home can be a challenge.

Unfamiliar brands, materials and the conditions of living on the beach with high humidity all influence the type of furniture you should buy to get the best value. Also, if you’re planning on renting out your home, consider wear and tear and flexibility in your purchases. Sheryl Novak of SOLutions Mexico offers our readers some important tips to consider.

1. Avoid soft woods. Termites love soft woods, especially that tasty pine furniture that you often see at little carpentry shops at the side of the road.

2. Be cautious about furniture manufactured with MDF. Not all MDF are created equal. This is another material that is attractive to termites. And, with the high humidity here in the summer, if the glue is not superior, the veneer can come off, exposing the particle board to the elements and the critters.

3. Be cautious about synthetic

rattan for your outdoor furniture.

Synthetic rattan comes in different grades and most big box stores sell the lowest grade. We have had many customers come to our store telling us that their expensive furniture they bought at the big box store has split within six months from the heat of the direct sun.

4. Even though they call it leather, is it really leather? Watch out for tacto piel. Tacto piel feels like leather but it is not. If you decide to go with leather (a good option for your upholstered goods), buy from a known brand such as Palliser or LaZboy – companies that manufacture the true leather. We all know someone who purchased what they thought was leather and ended up

with a peeling and cracked sofa within a few months.

5. Consider purchasing commercial grade furniture, especially if you are planning to rent your condo or casa when you are not using it yourself. Commercial grade furniture is meant to last longer than residential grade. It costs a little bit more, but it will withstand a lot of use and you will see a greater return on your furniture investment.

SOLutions Mexico – the furniture store for your Mexican home.

SOLutions Mexico offers the most trusted furniture brands, and specialty solutions including Murphy Beds Mexico and California Closets. Check out their online store at www.solutionsmexico.com, and visit their new concept store in Bucerias (just north of PV).

MARINA VALLARTA I CASUAL LUXURY ALONG THE MARINA DINING - SHOPPING - SPAS - VACATION RENTALS

Every Thursday evening from 6pm - 10pm Experience the best in local creative artisans, gourmet and organic foods, jewelery, clothing, souvenirs and much more! Until the end of April!

ENTRANCE TO MARINA VALLARTA

With her husband Mark helping to manage the business, Donna brings to Puerto Vallarta a popular style of jewelry, with inspirations from their travels through Mexico, fused with Bohemian, Native American and Southwestern styles. Working with the woman they have trained locally, they make all their products at their Marina Vallarta studio.

LOS CHATOS

CALLE MASTIL KIOSKO D’S ROUTE 66 BRASIL STEAK HOUSE SABOR A MEXICO RINCON DE BUENOS AIRES BACHA’S LIGHTHOUSE

CALLE TIMON FAJITA BANANA OXXO COFFEE CUP LAS PALMAS DORADAS

FEATURED THURSDAY EVENING MARKET VENDORS

LA TERRAZA DI ROMA

www.kimberlyrei.com Instagram: Kimberly Rei 322 150 5189

CALLE ANCLA COLDWELL BANKER

PASEO DE MARINA SUR

CHAPPY’S

REMAX MASTER BAITERS CAFE TACUBA

CALLE VELA Instagram:KimberlyRei 322.150.5189 KimberlyRei.com

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

4 SAPORI

BEERBOX PRIME

LA FEDERAL

STARBUCKS

PORTO BELLO

LAS ALCATRACES

VALLARTA ADVENTURES

very Thursday evening along the Marina Vallarta boardwalk, there is the Artisan Market.

Comprised of well over 100 vendors, this market offers something for everyone; homemade, specialty and Online: BohemianButterflyDesign@ organic foods, crafts and decorative The Schons came to Puerto Vallarta gmail.com items from around Mexico, furniture, last year to look at moving their jew- BohemianButterflyDesign.com clothing, shoes, and jewelry. elry business to Mexico. While here they met the women of New BeginMost, though not all of the vendors nings, a non-profit organization, and are the designers and producers of trained them in jewelry production. the products they sell, ensuring when Donna, who has been in the wholeyou purchase something the money sale gift business for over 12 years goes back into the local community. dedicates her talents to designing a While there are many silversmiths, unique jewelry line that catered to and jewelry designers that show- women like her—creative, free-spircase their creations at the Thursday ited, and passionate about leading evening market, Mark and Donna an authentic life.

Schons, the couple behind Bohemi-

STICKY FINGERS

PEPE’S

PASEO DE MARINA

E

Find Bohemian Butterfly Design Thursday – Marina Vallarta Evening Market from 6-10pm Saturdays - Los Mangos Mercado an Butterfly Design, have brought a from 9-2pm fresh new style of jewelry and accessories to Vallarta. They use beads, Marina Vallarta studio and store charms, feathers, leather and more Marina Vallarta A4 (Near Chappy’s to create their unique designs.

Sports Bar)

TACO TANGO

CALLE POPA

In addition to setting up at the Thursday Evening Market in the Marina each week, Bohemian Butterfly Design also sells their products at the Artisan Market held at the Los Mangos Library each Saturday from 9-2pm. You can also visit them at their studio in the Marina, located just past Chappy’s, where you’ll find all their treasures in one spot.

New jewellery maker in town hires local women

MED&SPA

TINTOQUE

EL COLEGUITA

4 KATRINAS

THURSDAY EVENING MARINA MARKET

local

14

La la

Yelapa

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.”

I

can’t argue with my handwritten calendar. In five weeks Cal and I reluctantly head back to the States. The Cupocity coupon for a hugely discounted night in an ocean front room in our favorite Yelapa beach hotel with a bottle of sparkling wine jumps out at me like a bottle of water in the desert.

We’ll squeeze two nights into our last days. Three weeks later, we’re waiting for the water taxi at the end of Los Muertos Pier filled with families and suitcases going home to shoreline villages and tourists with their bulging backpacks. A young Mexican girl hands off a wrapped sandwich and throws a kiss to a muscled guy in a fishing boat speeding off in the Bay. A whole fish with head and wide eyes stares up at me from the pier. I can’t look. He’s caught, I’m free.

Clutching the silver rails of the pier’s ladder, my feet frantically feel for the narrow steps. Careful Señora,” I hear sinking into the strong arms of the Mexican boat guide delivering me to a seat on the lurching water taxi. Climbing ladders onto rocking boats is not my best “look good,” but I had avoided flinging myself into the laps of seated passengers. “Do it while you can,” I remind myself.

Strong afternoon winds whip our faces and passengers shriek gleefully as we bounce over waves, landing with a thud on metal benches. Forty-five minutes later, one more ladder tests our aging mobility, and we’re facing the familiar thatched roof casitas with open roofs and ocean views spread throughout winding stone walkways.

That night at our candlelit table at the hotel’s casual beach restaurant, I clink my glass of sparkling wine with Cal’s sparking water. “To doing it while we can.” A canopy of stars shines over us. That night huddled in bed inside our mosquito net, no internet service saving me from news I don’t want to read, the surf’s hypnotic lullaby quickly lulls me to sleep.

Crossing the beach and climbing

steep steps to the town center, we don’t worry about getting lost. The few narrow intersecting streets will take us to the close (or far) waterfall with treats and snacks along the way purchased at privately owned restaurants and the street stands along the cobblestoned roads. We scurry to the sides to avoid burros, ATV’s, horses, artists with sketch pads, and colorful senior characters once called hippies, I now call “sippies.”

Giggling school girls pass by in white shirts, plaid and grey skirts and white knee sock uniforms identifying their school. There’s no reason to hurry and there are many to stop often. A toothless ‘abuela’ in a boldly embroidered blouse flattens the dough for blue corn tortillas. Appetizing smells of roasting meat and smoke promote a barbecue stand. A statuesque woman passes us carrying a huge white wrapped vessel on her head.

Hand printed fliers stapled to trees promote music events. Purple and blue blossomed bougainvillea bouquets spill down walls while bunches of bananas hanging from palm trees ripen at their own pace.

Yelapa doesn’t appeal to everyone; enjoying travelers lured by hiking, adventuring, yearning for an authentic rustic Mexican village experience and creative inspiration.

We pause often for framed vistas of mountains and sparkling bay views.

Sailboats, water taxis, fishing boats and tour boats wait quietly in the

cove for returning passengers.

It’s the soothing pulse of simplicity and subtle spurts of creativity I feel here. Underneath Yelapa’s natural gifts, it’s all about the people. Speaking to several Yelapa natives, they all agree, “Why would I go anywhere else?” Loyal visitors, who return every year, tell me they never get enough time in this cornucopia of simple riches.

Hugo, a waiter at the beach hotel, is a Yelapa native who lived in Los Angeles for a couple years learning English and customer service. “LA too big for me,” he grins. Yolanda, an administrator, is raising her children in Yelapa. “Now we have two good schools offering classes through high school.

Our children don’t have to leave until they go to University in Puerto Vallarta or Guadalajara. “If we can’t find work here, we live in Vallarta and work at the airport, or in the tourist business. None of us wants to be further apart.”

Yelapa’s ease translates to friendly residents and visitors who love to share their stories.

Roger and Diane and their family visit every year from Anchorage, Alaska, staying in town in a condo on the beach that Grampa rents.

“We’re having a campfire,” a young granddaughter grins as she runs across the sand gathering wood.

“We always do this every year,” says Grampa. “I give them vacation choices and they always choose Yelapa.”

Sharing greetings with a tall, lean beach walker, I guess he’s near my age with his weathered face suggesting many years in the sun. A polished bone hangs from a leather cord around his neck, a scraggly long ponytail is wrapped in a Huichol band.

“How long have you lived here?”

I ask. He laughs. “I live in Colorado. I heard about this place from friends and this is my first time here. My friend emailed last night asking me if it were too rustic. I said, “Are you kidding? I’m so glad it’s as rustic as it is.”

As dusk spreads its magical lighting on the hotel’s rocky shore, Cal and I stop to talk to a photographer lost in the art of capturing unique images with his Nikon hanging on a neck strap. “I just got the best shot,” he says.

“The sun going down and moon coming up.” I share his passion for photos, trying to transition to my IPhone from my own SLR. Daryl shows us a few of his award winning photographs displayed in his gallery in Big Sur California, another of our favorites retreats, an unspoiled positive vortex perched

March 16 - 22, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

on picturesque cliffs overhanging the Pacific Ocean. “Don’t even know if I can get home,” he says referring to raging rainstorms washing out the coastal bridge on Highway One. “Come visit me, at my River Inn center gallery. It’s called ‘Darned Glad To Be Here’.”

A beach breakfast on our last day comes too soon. “Let’s think about dropping out here,” I say thinking back to my hippie days in San Francisco’s Haight Ashbury.

“How long could you really live in this quiet place?” Cal asks. “We

could try a week,” I say. The T-shirt message on the back of a silver haired guest sitting at the next table reads: “Maple Creek Club, a place to roll’em.” “It’s up near the Oregon border in California,” he offers. “Our closest neighbors live 20 minutes from us. I know my shirt is controversial.”

“I saw the smoke and smelled that familiar smell coming from your cabin. I assumed it was a beach boy,” I say showing my age and we laugh. Aah...La La Yelapa, a feast for the senses.

local

15

March 16 - 22, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Creative

Reason,

hands of Mexico

Number 154

Leigh Thelmadatter

By Molly Williams

osomadre@hotmail.com

http://inmylifebymolly.blogspot.com/

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

I

love Puerto Vallarta for hundreds of reasons, many of which I have poured out glowingly here. We “discovered” the town over 25 years ago, well before we were married, and have made it an annual pilgrimage, missing only the years of our wedding (too busy) and the year our daughter was born (too little.)

We brought her the next year, though, at 13 months old, and every year since then. Over the years it has been part of the tapestry of her childhood. Tortillas as a staple with any meal, a laid-back attitude toward time, negotiating with me on anything from allowance to curfew are all traits I attribute to hundreds of relaxed days around friends and family near our condo in Old Town.

Now 18, she has come to love Puerto Vallarta as passionately as we do for other reasons too. The warmth of its people and the kindness and acceptance they have shown us is an important reason we keep coming back. Last night I understood that again, in a beautifully tangible way.

In Old Town there is an open LGBT+ -friendly presence, and we find the drag shows some of the most entertaining evenings we have had. The talent is extraordinary; the comedy is slightly raunchy but not so much that I blanch with my kid next to me; the singing is very good; the audience is always enthusiastic. Last night we attended the hilarious Dueling Drag Divas. The variety of people in the small-ish room was wonderful – many of them friends of the fabulous performers, some artists themselves from other venues, there to honor and support their friends and co-workers in a tough field, some spring breakers, the parents of one of the performers, and us, two straight married couples and our 18 year old daughter. By any measure we were the ones that stood out, but by no means did we feel out of place. And that is what I loved. No one felt out of place.

Of course my darling daughter is pulled onstage at some point during the interactive portion of the performance, because that is what happens when you are adorable

A plate for your bread?

A and 18. Somehow I got there too, as mommy; not quite as adorable, but coattails, you know. She has a magnetic stage presence from years of improv training and school musicals, and can certainly engage an audience, which she did, managing to hold her own next to the funny and friendly diva with a microphone. I mainly stood there proudly, trying to let her have the spotlight.

A lot of laughs and a quick shot of tequila later (don’t judge, she’s over age!) and we were back in our seats for the rest of the show, exhilarated.

After the show two adorably enamored young men came up to her and told her she was their favorite audience part of the show. That she didn’t know how lucky she was to have such a supportive family because not everyone did. They told her their families did not approve of them. It made me so sad for them, and love this town so much – these impossibly gorgeous mid-westernly wholesome young men had found in Puerto Vallarta complete acceptance and welcome that their own families wouldn’t or couldn’t extend.

I didn’t need more reasons to love it here, but that room last night and its array of strangers and friends gave me another. They didn’t judge, they didn’t ask questions, they were there for each other in laughter and drag, one of the toughest kinds of comedy, essentially rooted in pain.

Many of them might have been considered a little out of the ordinary or felt unaccepted where they came from but have found a home here. I think of the many people of PV who have reached out in welcome to me not knowing anything about me or my life or my story, and continue to do so no matter how the airport swells or the war of words rages.

The list of reasons to love Puerto Vallarta grows each year. Lucky me.

cambaro is a large town in the far south of the state of Guanajuato. Like many places here, its name is from the Purhepecha language (“place of magueyes”) as it was part of the Purhepecha (or Tarasco) Empire, centered in what is now Michoacan.

A line of mountains separates it from its neighbor and the area has gone its own way, most notably losing much of its indigenous character.

The town is best known in central Mexico for its traditional bread. The region favors the growing of wheat, and the specialty is the slightly sweet “pan grande” or “big bread.”

The pre Hispanic identity of the region lies more with the local archeological site of Chupícuaro, which had a distinctive pottery style, and was particularly noted for its figurines. After the Conquest, the highly resilient clay of the area was still used, but its working devolved over the centuries to the making of simple utilitarian items, mostly pots and cazuelas for cooking. Even this died out before the end of the 20th century, as local wares could not compete with cheaper cookware from other places.

This region of Mexico is poor, still dependent mostly on agriculture and bread making with many families here having one or more members working in the United States. For this reason, a priest by the name of Salvador Rangel, with the support of the federal government, helped to establish a highfire ceramics cooperative in 1985.

He selected the site in the barrio of La Soledad, which was the center of the former ceramics activity in Acambaro, called it the La Soledad Cooperative.

For the first six years of its existence, it was a large operation with 800 members, almost all women.

But cooperative organizations are difficult to maintain, with problems in making major decisions, and managing finances. In 1991, membership began to drop, in part due to retire-

ments and over the next decade or so a number of members became frustrated and quit. By 2000, there were only 10 members. By 2007, only three sisters remained, Margarita, Clara and Isabel Ramos Lopez.

For a decade, they have kept the workshop and legal organization alive, often working for only minimum wage in Mexico… about $4 USD a day, with a bit more during certain times when they can do more selling. One problem is that since their work is high-fire, it is a bit more expensive to produce (particularly gas for the kiln), making it difficult to compete with other pottery.

However, things have been looking up for the business over the past couple of years. In 2014, they were invited to exhibit and sell their work at an event in the nearby city of Celaya, Guanajuato. Here, one of their pieces won a prize, and just as importantly, attracted the attention of Virginia Hernandez of the Celaya Arts Center, who has since worked to promote the cooperative.

This has led to invitations to sell at various fairs in the state, including the Feria de León (Guanajuato), getting sponsorship from federal and state authorities. The exposure has even been bringing visitors to the workshop in La Soledad.

Authorities have also been supporting the workshop through grants for materials, equipment and training.

The base of the cooperative’s production is still utilitarian wares such as plates, cups, mugs, teapots shot glasses, etc., still using the same local clay sources exploited by the ancient potters of Chupicaro.

Many of the designs have remained with only some evolution, in particular, the dot and stripe patterns which are created by spinning a piece while holding a paintbrush steady or using a small circular sponge on a short stick. The most common colors are blue, reddish-orange and back on a white or off-white background, but other colors can be added for special orders. These pigments are from commercial sources, but they make their own glaze.

However, the last few years have seen new forms and new decoration. Decorative pieces are making their way into the inventory, from small dove napkin holders, to skulls for Day of the Dead and egg and seashell shapes purely for decoration. Some of these new forms come from other handcrafts, such as woodcarving. One of the newest and most innovative is the making of decorative mask pieces, started only about 6 months ago. Decorative influences here include pre Hispanic motifs, especially lines and geometric patterns, to drip to minimalist, Japanese-inspired pieces.

It’s important to note that none of the pieces are meant to be recreations of Chupicuaro or any other pre-Hispanic pottery.

Despite the struggles and low pay, the three sisters are dedicated to keeping the cooperative and the making of ceramics alive in Acambaro. They love the work, and do not want to leave the area or their families. Margarita states simply that she wants to die doing this. And despite problems in the past, they still believe the cooperative model is best for the business and for Mexico, and their main hope for the future is to rebuild La Soledad.

All photos by the author unless otherwise noted.

entertainment

17

March 16 - 22, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Broadway’s Eric Krop, Country’s Ty Herndon, DUENDE, Musical Comedy & at Incanto

V

ocalist and songwriter Eric Krop has made a name for himself as one of the most preeminent young singers on the pop and musical theater scene, performing in Godspell on Broadway and headlining at several top NYC and L.A. venues.

Eric is now appearing at Incanto with Musical Director and celebrated accompanist Nate Buccieri through March 25.

Grammy-nominated country music recording artist Ty Herndon is now appearing through March 18. With a career spanning two decades, 20 Billboard charted singles and over five million albums sold, Herndon shows no signs of slowing down. He recently released his newest and much-anticipated full-length album House On Fire in 2016. There are only a few more performances, so reserve early.

Luna Rumba Production’s DUENDE is a unique blend of celtic, rumba, and flamenco with a

fiery twist, described as “A mysterious force that everyone feels, but

no one can explain.” Geo Uhrich, Luis Rascon and Lilly Alcantara

merge melodies, unique and interesting fusions, with a touch of classical masterpieces with new tones and rhythms. Expect the unexpected! Next show Friday, March 17, St. Patrick’s Day. There will be 2x1 margarita and martini drink specials with some surprises during the show.

Singer-songwriter Stolie presents a new musical comedy show, Chica, Go!, with two of her gal pals, Tiffani Swalley and Cat McDonnell. These three Chicago-based performers team up for a hilarious new show combining music with improvisational and sketch comedy. Chica Go! plays one night only, Sunday, March 19 at 7:00.

Stolie will also present ‘Cantautoras - Songwriters-in-the-Round’ on Tuesday, March 21 at 8:00.

Each songwriter will present a song, and you’ll hear stories about the writers and their music. They’ll also accompany each other on back-up harmonies and percus-

sion. Guest artists include Ive Guadarrama from Toluca, Mexico, Nie Curbelo from Havana, Cuba, and Sarah En La Luna from Vallarta. One performance only.

Also see Stoile on Mondays at 5:00 & 8:00 in the piano bar in her own show.

Pianist Jean-Guy Comeau (JayGee) and singer/guitarist Gabriel Reyes appear in the piano bar on select dates. NYC’s Michael McAssey presents catchy cabaret tunes Tues.- Sat. at 8:00 & 10:00.

BINGO with Pearl will be held on March 18 & 25. And Incanto is now serving breakfast on their beautiful riverside terrace Tues.- Sun. 9:00 - 2:00. Reservations are highly recommended.

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.

entertainment

18

March 16 - 22, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

This week at The Boutique

Patsy Cline artist, Dueling Divas take the mic Merv Buchanan merv@uvs.com

T

he Best of Broadway” is a musical review, starring Puerto Vallarta performers, directed and crafted by Ralph Hyman. Here’s what PV reviewer Gary Beck had to say: “The listeners left wishing for a continuation of the stellar endeavor. Bravo! …

The Boutique is hitting its stride.

Wonderful show!” The Best of Broadway performs Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, through March 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.

Hyman will direct the play “Ripcord” at The Boutique, showing

from April 13-22.

Mikki Prost, the tribute artist who creates her own shows, brings back her popular evenings about country legend Patsy Cline. “Crazy for Patsy” performs Wednesdays, March 22, and April 5. Note: Wednesdays shows start at the special time of 7:30 p.m., with the dinner, optional, served at 6:30 p.m. Mikki Prost does her own research, compilation, costuming, and narrating for her shows, and

is beloved for her professionalism and the special rapport she creates with her audiences. She delights in making herself available afterward to talk with fans, and pose for photographs with them …. On Friday, March 17, St. Patrick’s Day, Mikki Prost will offer her one-woman tribute to singer Brenda Lee, “Little Miss Dynamite.”

The TED Talk PV-Style series continues, from 10 a.m. to noon, every other Tuesday. Each lecture

is 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.

Mar 21: Diary of a Dairy Queen and Spicy Tales from Taco Belle with Joanna and Chichi Rones--Who are the real Jo Anna/Chi Chi behind their wonderful Dueling Drag Divas stage personas? TED-TALKS-PV Style will offer a unique opportunity to meet these two talented

and versatile female impersonators (Joe Schmitz and Peter Garcia) in an up-close-and-personal presentation, which includes intriguing accounts of their rises to stardom.

Apr. 4: Artificial Intelligence: Opportunity and Threat with John Wilson Bugbee Apr. 18: American Journey: Tales from a Troubadour with Larry Long The last Wednesday of each month, PV’s popular five-player band, Time 2 Play, takes the stage with Open Mic Night. The last Open Mic session of the season is March 29. Admission is just 50 pesos.

“Over the River and Through The Woods” is a play directed by Barbara J. Harris, showing March 30 through April 8.

The Boutique Dinner Theatre offers exciting evenings of dinnerand-a-show options. The theatre is located upstairs at Nacho Daddy, 287 Basilio Badillo. Delicious threecourse dinners are served at 5 p.m., with the shows at 6 p.m.

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.

“THE GARTH GUY”

Starring Dean Simmons Merv Buchanan merv@uvs.com

A

native of Portland, Oregon, Dean Simmons followed in the footsteps of his father and grandfather, legendary musician, broadcaster and concert promoter Buddy Simmons. By age seven, he was playing guitar in his father's shows, forming his own band while still a teenager. The Dean Simmons Band played nightclubs, festivals and fairs across the Pacific northwest and toured military bases in the US and around the world.

When the Garth Brooks phenomenon exploded in the early nineties, Dean got on board, performing Brooks' hits so accurately that crowds demanded them at every show. It wasn't long before they became a major part of Dean's repertoire. And his fans, quick to notice his resemblance to Brooks and amazing talent for re-creating his songs note for note, began calling him “the Garth guy”. Dean knew this was a concept worth pursuing.

To develop the “Garth Guy” concept into a full show, Dean

carefully studied Brooks' songs, voice and stage mannerisms. He devoured every album, music video and piece of concert footage he could get his hands on, looking for the elements that made Brooks so

popular. What he discovered was that the great voice, exciting stage presence and down to earth songs were only part of the story. Brooks' real talent was in his ability to take control of a concert hall and connect

with an audience. Dean knew that this was a skill he had to learn if he was serious about playing tribute to an important musical icon like Brooks. As it turned out, his years of playing in front of an audience

served him well and it wasn't long before he had audiences eating out of his hand.

“The Garth Guy” tribute show debuted in 1994. In 1996, producer John Stewart wisely added it to his famous “Legends In Concert” tours, to Las Vegas, Myrtle Beach, Atlantic City and across the US and Canada. Between tours, Dean developed his own 90-minute show, based on Brooks' hugely popular concerts. The Garth Guy show has performed for cheering fans at casinos, festivals, fairs, corporate events, universities, rodeos and private events from coast to coast and overseas. In 2016, Dean celebrated 20 years as a “Legends In Concert” cast member, as well as a successful solo entertainer.

The Garth Guy will appear at La Piña colada in Guayabitos on March 29, The Luna Lounge in Bucerias, on March 30 and at El Rio BBQ in Paso Ancho on April 1.

More information is available on the various venue web sites and here in The Vallarta Tribune.

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

entertainment

19

March 16 - 22, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

“All You Need Is Love”

Joe Passion's Tribute To John Lennon Merv Buchanan merv@uvs.com

N

ot only was John Lennon a founding member of The Beatles, the most famous rock band in history, he was also half of the most successful and prolific song writing team of all time. Together with band mate Paul McCartney they published 180 songs. More than Jerry Leiber & Mike Stoller, Burt Bacharach & Hal David, or any of the other famous song writing teams. And with cover versions by hundreds of artists, from Molly Hatchet to Ray Charles, their song “Yesterday” has become the most recorded song in history.

John Lennon's granny glasses, mod clothing and long hair gave him a recognizable look. And his British accent, biting humour and unusual view of world events spoke to people everywhere. Who but John Lennon would have a

Rolls Royce painted to resemble The Union Jack? Who else would regularly refer to the Nazis as “the nasties”? And who but John Lennon would, at the peak of North America's “British Invasion”, slick his hair back, don a motorcycle jacket and get together with pop music's legendary Phil Spector, to produce an album of the previous generation's hits called simply “Rock'n'Roll?

As a songwriter, recording artist, actor, playwright and skilled musician, Joe Passion is in a good position to appreciate the unique legacy of John Lennon.

He grew up with the music of The Beatles, performing it in numerous Toronto-based bands, before building a successful career as a studio musician, arranger, writer and producer for hire. Over the last few decades, he has amassed a huge body of work on records, in movies and on TV that showcases

his amazing abilities as a pianist, guitarist and vocalist. But, as Joe often says “there's nothing like playing in front of an audience to get your juices flowing” and performing the music of John Lennon, one of his favourite artists does exactly that.

Songs in All You Need Is Love include “Hey Jude”, “Yesterday”, “She Loves You”, I Want To Hold Your Hand”, “With Love From Me To You”, “All You Need Is Love” and many more. This amazingly accurate tribute to one of rock music's most beloved icons comes to The Luna Lounge in Bucerias for an exclusive appearance on Sunday, March 26th. Tickets and information are available on line at www. lunaloungebucerias.com and here in The Vallarta Tribune.

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

Comings and Goings

Puerto Vallarta Chamber Orchestra Features Eastern European Music

By Marcia Blondin

Comings….

If you get this paper early enough on Thursday, March 16, you may have time to get to Amadeo’s Bistro, in the Marina, by 10 am to have a terrific “Wilderness Breakfast” accompanied by conversation with Zoologist Petr Myska. If you have any questions and/ or interest in our local fauna, be there! I’ll have a full report next week and thanks to author Charlotte Main for the invitation!

Same day Thursday, from 5 to 7 pm, enjoy appetizers at Incanto that is hosting – once again – the Vallarta Garden Club’s membership/meet and greet on the patio overlooking the Rio Cuale. Amazing photographer Mike Laking will be giving a talk on how to improve your nature shots. I am sure he’ll be open for questions; he is a very generous artist always willing to share his knowledge. And, for only $500 pesos, you too, can become a Garden Club member and help support the beautification of our city.

Saturday night, the 18th has El Rio BBQ-Bar presenting the Tribute to Tim McGraw and the Mexican debut of Adam Tucker doing the honours. Born in Tennessee, Adam dreamed

T

he Puerto Vallarta Chamber Orchestra and Instituto de Artes Musicales Puerto Vallarta (IAM PV) are pleased to announce two concert performances on Sunday and Monday, March 26 and 27, 2017. This season, 2016-2017, is the first time in the orchestra’s history that there will be three concerts in the season instead of the usual two.

The orchestra’s program will feature Eastern European music, including selected Slavonic Dances by Antonin Dvorak and his Symphony No. 9, the “New World” Symphony. The program will also include Rumanian Folk Dances

by Bela Bartok. Our guest soloist will be the extremely popular band Moruno, comprised of Diego Mateo and Nacho Flores, who will perform

of performing in Las Vegas; now lives and works on the famous Strip and brings his show from Vegas to you at El Rio. See y’all there.

…and Goings The “Soul Men” show at El Rio was so energetic, I don’t think anyone slept last Saturday night. I knew that brothers Geoff and Chris Dahl had flown from Europe to Canada, then directly to Mazatlan to perform, then

Bucerias’s Luna Lounge for a show, then El Rio, then back to Canada and Berlin, Germany…in less than a week.

I’m tired just typing that!

Anyone who was at El Rio will tell you Chris and Geoff did not stop for over an hour; dancing, running around the tables involving everyone to sing and dance and oh, the harmonica playing! Geoff was amazing.

Thank you, both for the sensational show. Now rest!

Balkan music.

Sunday, March 26, 8pm at the American School - Albatros 129, Marina Vallarta Monday, March 27, 8pm, at Salon Paraiso - Paseo de los Cocoteros 67, Nuevo Vallarta Suggested donation: 200 pesos adults, 100 pesos children and students. Children age 5 and under are free.

This donation will support the orchestra’s new policy of providing free tickets to music schools, student organizations and other groups who would otherwise be unable to afford these concerts and enjoy the experience and cultural exposure that they offer. This couple of concerts will allow 300 students and families to attend the performance for free.

Frankies has gone crazy!

10% off from 5-7pm.

Dine in only.

No shared plates

Pizzas 20% off 9-11 pm

Valid with this coupon Valid from Mzo 16 - 22, 2017 Open from Monday to Saturday from 5-11pm Venustiano Carranza 276 Zona Romรกntica 223 2267

10% Off

With This Coupon

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

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

VALLARTA’S FIRST BALLROOM

LEARN TO DANCE Walk in.....Dance out!

Enjoy Vallarta’s Night Life

To Its Fullest Learn To Dance Today 3 Private half hour lessons $20.00 1 Hr group Lessons U.S.!

1Hr Practice Party “per person” (Regularly Priced at $90.00) E n j o y O u r F r e e M a r g a r i ta B a r a n d A/C (W i t h L e ss o ns ) *N o P a r t n e r N e c c e s a r y *

New Student Special

479 Juarez St. Down Town (2 Blocks East Of The Boardwalk) Phone Mex +52-322-292-0026 Phone Usa 618 553 0518 BOLERO - SAMBA - RUMBA - TANGO - MERENGUE - MAMBO - SALSA - BACHATA - WALTZ

WALTZ - VIENNESE WALTZ - - CHA CHA CHA - SALSA

WALTZ - VIENNESE WALTZ - - CHA CHA CHA - SALSA

TWO STEP - PASO DOBLE - TANGO - MERENGUE - MAMBO - SALSA - BACHATA - WALTZ

entertainment

22

March 16 - 22, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Luna Lounge Bucerias ends March with Fantastic Dinner Shows

By Debbie White

D

irect from Germany, Jeff Fairchild and Ken Levine thrilled Luna Lounge audiences this past Thursday and Friday with Soul Man: The Blues Brothers. We loved the crazy personas and music of those lovable, zany brothers from Chicago. The show was amazing and the harmonica playing and nonstop action was incredible!

Headliner, Dwight Blake returned with his band The Funk Brothers this past Saturday.

His Memories of Motown show brought the music of the “Motor City” to life and featured the best loved hits and a whole lot of great dancing.

Internationally renowned star, Suzanne O. Davis brought her Carol King: Tapestry Live show to Luna Lounge last Sunday. Tapestry is one of the bestselling albums of all time and the music and performance was truly extraordinary.

Coming up on Friday is a Special St. Patrick’s Day Show (March 17th) with entertainers

Brian O’Brian and Paul Caldwell on vocals and guitars with their duo, called, The Fight Outside.

The festivities go from 1pm to midnight, so put on some green and come out for all the fun!

Luna Lounge is always the place to be on St. Paddy’s Day with its real Irish hosts, Hugh and his mom, Alice. And there’s no cover charge!

On Sunday, March 19, America’s top Tim McGraw tribute, starring Adam Tucker, will debut. Straight from Las Vegas, Adam is known as the Vegas McGraw. And he’s a dead-ringer for the real one country star!

Joe Passion brings us Great Balls of Fire on March 23. This special tribute to Jerry Lee Lewis includes top piano playing and all the great hits of this musical icon.

Returning on March 26, Joe Passion is back with All You Need is Love: The John Lennon Tribute. Come out and hear all the incredible music from this iconic songwriter/musician!

And the final tribute show of

the season is The Garth Guy on March 30 and 31, featuring the music and look of America’s most loved country star, Garth Brooks. Dean Simons is fantastic as Garth Brooks and he puts on an incredible show. The audiences went crazy for this show last season!

This March, Luna Lounge has been venturing up north to Guayabitos to The Piña Colada Restaurant for weekly shows. Coming up, you’ll see: The Jerry Lee Lewis Show on March 22 and The Garth Brooks Show on March 29. Go to lunaloungebucerias. com to purchase tickets or see Linda Gibbs at Casita De La Peñita to pay cash for tickets.

And don’t forget that very 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!

Visit lunaloungebucerias.com for information or tickets.

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.

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.

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

23

By John Warren

H

ow would you feel if you never had a chance to wash your hands, shower or bathe? Icky? Self-conscious? Low self-esteem? There are kids in Puerto Vallarta who live in “the cardboard village”, a community up the mountain footpaths between the two tunnels on Libramento and about a mile from Playa Los Muertos, who have never seen a bar of soap or a towel. Volunteers at the International Friendship Club (IFC) are asking for your help to change that.

“Clean-Me Bear”, in Spanish “Limpia-me Oso”, is a project that uses a simple hand towel and a bar of soap, wrapped up to look like a bear, that not only teaches these children to wash themselves but also puts a smile on their faces and increases their self-esteem. If you are able to drop off a couple of new bathroom hand towels, wrapped bars of soap and/or a few pesos for these kids the IFC volunteers will use them to make the bears and take them up the mountain.

It takes very little to make a big difference.

Here’s another way to make a big difference when you come back to PV next season – bring something with you is needed here: - CANICA, the group that provides help to kids with cancer, needs colouring books for the smaller children to use on their bus trips to and from Guadalajara where they go to get treatment.

They also need laptops and tablets that the older kids can use to do their studying in the CANICA office/

international friendship club

Happiness – Soap and a Suitcase

study.

- I AM PV is the umbrella organization that encompasses the PV Chamber Orchestra, the Salty Paws Jazz Orchestra and a project to teach music in schools. It desperately needs musical instruments, regardless of their condition.

(They have a musical technician who will repair instruments in exchange for some free nights of accommodation in PV, donated by a supporter of I AM PV) So, this summer, please check with your local community band and the high schools in your neighbour-

hood and ask if they will donate any unwanted instruments to the musical life of kids in PV. - IFC needs new baby clothes that the club’s social services director will deliver to the public hospitals in PV. Some parents are just too poor to buy their new child her first set of pajamas. You can help by bringing some new baby clothes in your suitcase next season. It takes very little to make a big difference.

WestJet allows a passenger to travel with a suitcase containing donations of goods for charitable

purposes without charge and other airlines may do too.

That means two people can bring two “charitable” suitcases with them. However, it’s essential that you check with your airline before you lug your grandfather’s double bass to to the departure gate and then discover that your checked-baggage cost is higher than your ticket price.

All items that you bring down can be dropped off at the IFC office ( above HSBC bank on Insurgentes at the bridge) and the club will make sure the items are deli-

HOME TOURS…TICK, TICK, TICK

T

he 30th successful season for the IFC Home Tours is fast approaching so if you haven’t had the time to buy a ticket so far this season, now is the time to do so. The last luxury bus for the tour will roll away from the Sea Monkey Restaurant at 10:30 on Wednesday 29th. The tours will run on the 21st, 22nd, 28th and 29th and the season will be then be over.

Tickets are available online at www.toursforvallarta.com or at the IFC office (above the HSBC bank on Insurgentes at the river) from 9:00 to 1:30, Monday through Friday. The tickets are $600 and all of the profits are distributed each year to the cleft palate program of IFC (International Friendship Club) and to the twenty or so charities and programs that make life a little

better for Mexicans in PV. That’s why our generous homeowners open their homes to us, because they believe in giving back to society.

The tours visit four homes that are tucked away in secluded corners of the city or along the coastline. Many of them have wonderful collections of art and all of them are architecturally interesting.

All of the tours require walking on cobbled streets and climbing up and down stairs, so make sure your shoes, lungs and legs are in good shape. Docents accompany each bus to answer your questions about PV, the home and life in Mexico.

It’s an experience that Trip Advisor reviewers all love and you will too.

March 16 - 22, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

vered to the right places.

IFC supports community outreach programs run by the British-American School. Two IFC volunteers visited a pre-school facility that caters to kids who are 3 & 4 years old and is up in the jungle area above PV. The building has windows that can blow out in a high wind or an earthquake. If that happens the glass will break into flying spears and could be deadly.

The IFC Education Committee will fund the replacement of these windows. Not educational but humanitarian.

Here’s a story of amazing altruism. When IFC’s Education Committee first started dealing with the library four years ago Adriana Garcia, the CEO of Biblioteca Los Mangos, was unable to spend $1,000CDN to patch the roof to stop the summer rains coming in.

By instigating a number of cost-cutting measures and, more importantly, increasing the library’s revenue generating capabilities the organization is expected to breakeven financially in 2017. When offered another year of support by the Education Committee Adriana said, “No, thank you. I don’t think that we’ll need it this year.

Please give it to other charities who need it more than we do.” What an unselfish and generous gesture! Please help Adriana make the library self-sustaining by signing up as a monthly donor, http://bibliotecalosmangos. com/dona/ , buying tickets to its fundraisers and participating in the Saturday morning market.

It takes very little to make a big difference.

HOLLYWOOD MEMORABILIA, FURNITURE, COLLECTABLES & MORE

Naranjo Condo #3, SALE LOCATION Calle Col. Emiliano Zapata, Puerto Vallarta

Moving Sale 25.5X33.indd 1

3/13/17 12:45 PM

local

25

Langosta Diez La Cruz International Cuisine and Art Gallery

L

angosta DIEZ La Cruz is a fusion cuisine restaurant; its menu is comprised of fine dishes from International, Mediterranean, Argentinean, Italian and French cuisines. We created it with the intention of sharing a selection of our very favorite dishes, that is why our slogan reads:“Sharing fusions, secrets, and out or the ordinary flavors!” We have taken special attention and careful detail to our settings with the intention of creating a very relaxed and nice environment for you to enjoy memorable moments.

We put special care in the quality of ingredients; we use healthy recipes, and are proud of our finger food, entrees, pizzas and desserts. Our pizzas are prepared with very fine dough, baked on a wood oven that creates a unique flavor and adds a crunchy taste.

We roast the duck and the turkey on our wood oven; we also use it to grate cheese in dishes

like cannelloni and lasagna. Our specialty is lobster, we prepare it in different ways and ask our clients to reserve their lobster with 24hrs of anticipation: also on our menu as a delicious taco with black bean paste. We pay special attention to our customer needs, and offer dishes according their religious, diet and health related needs. Our paintings and decor items are for sale. The whole place is a gallery!

You like it, you add it to your bill; you take it home!

We are baby and wheelchair friendly, our restaurant and bathrooms are equipped to satisfy

babies’ needs, as well as wheelchair customers. We welcome small pets, and have a smoker’s area.

OUR CHEF: Miguel Angel Hernández Gutiérrez: Well known Mexican Chef Miguel Angel Hernández Gutiérrez has more than 20 years experience of prestigious hotel chains and restaurants in Mexico City, Tamaulipas, Central Mexico and Riviera Nayarit.

We invite you to enjoy his fusion dishes and secrets, as he is always creating new flavors.

LOCATION: La Cruz de Huanacaxtle right in front of La Cruz roundabout. The name LANGOSTA DIEZ corresponds to our physical address, receiving our permits on November 10th, 2015 and opening December 10th, 2015; an interesting fact for those interested in numerology. The way we see it: We want you to give us a TEN! We are open Monday-Sunday 3-11pm.

329-295-5521.

Sharing fusions, secrets, and out or the ordinary flavors!”

LOCATED RIGHT IN FRONT OF LA CRUZ ROUNDABOUT OPEN ALL WEEK 3-11PM RESERVATIONS: 329-295-5521

March 16 - 22, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

27

puerto vallarta

March 16 - 22, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Shopping your way through Vallarta

A

ny shopaholic knows that vacation time is shopping time, and it’s key that you have the best selection of bargains… this is why Puerto Vallarta is the destination for shopping enthusiasts of all persuasions. Just remember an extra suitcase for the way back.

Markets, Malls and Hidden Gems Puerto Vallarta has plenty to offer to you: malls, independent stores and boutiques, high fashion, traditional fashion, jewellery of all descriptions, spice stores, open air flea markets, and piñata and candy shops as well as seasonal farmers markets can be found throughout Banderas Bay. Here are our favourite places to shop in Puerto Vallarta.

Basilio Badillo Over the years Basilio Badillo has changed almost immeasurably; the new theatres, restaurants, stores, and business have really put this street on the map. In fact the huge variety available and its proximity to the beach and near by resort communities have made it one of the most popular streets for shopping in the whole city. You can really get anything you need here, from swimwear to evening outfits and jewellery.

Don’t miss the Friday evening Southside Shuffle happening every second Friday along Basilio Badillo where you’ll find deals, live music and lots of extra fun to enhance your shopping experience.

If you want to chat to some of these business owners you should start with the Shaw Sisters, Candace and Cassandra, who own and run Cassandra Shaw Jewellery together as they are friendly, knowledgeable, and always have time to show off their new collection. They might even introduce you to one of the many foster dogs which pass through their store.

The Malecon Puerto Vallarta has many landmarks, but the most iconic (manmade) one is undoubtedly the cities boardwalk, otherwise called the “Malecon”.

This stretch of boardwalk by the sea has many shopping opportunities for people: jewellery stores, boutiques, clothing stores, bars, and great places to eat. Myskova Resort-wear is a great place to

get original designer fashion, and it’s very popular with locals and tourists alike. Why not check out a few of the handicraft boutiques before you sit down and enjoy an ice-cream on the boardwalks benches. There are also specialty leather and tequila shops and wonderful galleries which set the Malecon apart from shopping experiences. The evenings on the boardwalk are the best part of the day; the breeze is gentle, and the sunsets are gorgeous.

We recommend that you try some of the delicious snack foods you can buy at the food vendors that set up each evening.

Isla Rio Cuale Flea Market Isla Rio Cuale is one of the most unique and lovely spots in the city, and better still it is an amazing spot for souvenir shopping. This area of Puerto Vallarta can be accessed via two hanging bridges or the stair at Oscars restaurant off the Malecon… there

is also access by the River Café restaurant. This is a charming spot to enjoy open air shopping, the sound of the river and maybe even see the iguanas and pelicans that roost in the trees here.

Galerias Vallarta If you love a good mall then Galerias Vallarta is definitely for you. This mall has a casino, movie theatre, food court, kids area, Liverpool luxury department store, and many beautiful boutiques.

This is an air-conditioned haven in the heat of the day, and there are various places to eat. Beware!

You will not leave Galerias Vallarta mall empty-handed.

Plaza Caracol Plaza Caracol is very popular with the locals and has been for decades. Situated in the heart of the Puerto Vallarta hotel zone this is a shopper’s haven. This mall not only has a variety of stores, but you have the Soriana Superstore

as a base for any essentials you might need. From suntan lotion to beachwear and snacks, it’s all here!

The Puerto Vallarta Art Walk Art lovers who visit Puerto Vallarta should definitely make time to follow the Puerto Vallarta Art Walk every Wednesday evening from 6-10pm. It is one of the best ways to see the centro neighbourhood of Vallarta and of course to see some diverse collections of inspiring art by local and international artists in all mediums.

The galleries often very generously provide snacks and drinks each Wednesday, so it’s a real night out.

Market Fun Over the last seven years the market scene in Puerto Vallarta has really grown; farmers markets are now held on a weekly basis during the winter high season. You can find such markets all over the

city, but most noticeably in: Old Town we have three regular markets including the popular Olas Altas Farmers’ Market in Lazaro Cardenas Park each Saturday from 9-2pm. There are also regular markets in Nuevo Vallarta, Bucerias, La Cruz, Sayulita and San Pancho. You can ask your concierge when you arrive what days of the week these markets will be held, and how to best get to them from your hotel.

La Isla Shopping Mall Keep your eyes peeled for the La Isla shopping mall which has just opened in Puerto Vallarta’s Hotel Zone.

This beautiful new open-air mall offers dining, shopping and a luxury movie theater along with gorgeous fountains and sculptures throughout. Only a handful of stores have opened their doors at this time, but there are some great brands including Benetton, Calvin Klein, Guess, Keihl’s and more!

riviera nayarit

28

March 16 - 22, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

100 % Organic Love in La Cruz Primavera / Springtime

S

Costa Canuva Lays Cornerstone In The Riviera Nayarit Roberto Sandoval, Governor of the state of Nayarit, led the event, along with Rafael Lang, Managing Director of Mota-Engil Turismo; Miguel Reyes, Managing Director of Fonatur; and Alicia Monroy, Mayor of Compostela. Also present, representatives of the three levels of government and several tourism industry special guests.

O

n Tuesday, March 7, 2017, the cornerstone of the Costa Canuva project was laid; this is the newest Integrally Planned Resorts (CIP by its acronym in Spanish) in the Riviera Nayarit, which spurred the urbanization of this development located in Compostela that will be administered by the Fondo Nacional de Fomento al Turismo (Fonatur), Mexico’s national trust for tourism promotion.

Roberto Sandoval, Governor of the state of Nayarit, led the event, along with Rafael Lang, Managing Director of Mota-Engil Turismo; Miguel Reyes, Managing Director of Fonatur; and Alicia Monroy, Mayor of Compostela. Also present, representatives of the three levels of government and several tourism industry special guests.

During his speech the State Governor explained this was the result of important negotiations that brought an investment into what he called the largest and most important tourism complex in all of Mexico.

The capital investment by MotaEngil will be 36 billion pesos, and the project will generate over eight thousand direct and indirect jobs within the first two years.

The Portuguese company chose Costa Canuva from among the different projects they have throughout 22 countries around the world thanks to its natural bounty and the national and international positioning of the Riviera Nayarit, but also due to the support of the three levels of government, which was key.

Costa Canuva will encompass 556 acres and over four miles of beach and coastline; the first of five hotels will be opened by Fairmont; it will also have the first golf course co-designed by Lorena Ochoa and Greg Norman; Cristian Ronald himself will own a home within the development.

The total construction for the development is expected to generate over seven thousand new rooms for the Riviera Nayarit with an expected total investment of 1.8 billion dollars.

pring is coming and that usually entails change; be it the flowers blooming or animals migrating to their summer feeding grounds. At the organic kitchen and smoothie bar in La Cruz that is called Organic Love, (which specializes in locally grown vegetables and fruits in their ovo-lacto vegetarian restaurant and where they create dishes and drinks with almost purely organic ingredients), spring means a few changes to both staff and menu.

The talented chef and owner Alef not only runs a new and alternative restaurant close to Marina Riviera Nayarit but also travels around the world and prepares food for the crew and family of an 85’ yacht, so unfortunately she won’t be around for the next couple of weeks.

Of course Alef could not dream about denying the world an organic choice so she found a replacement until she returns, and not just any replacement but her very

own mom. So you can have confidence that the concept of natural ingredients will continue even if we have to be without the force behind this magical little place in La Cruz.

If you wonder what “organic”, “natural” and “locally grown” all means, I can tell you that it really is just a return to how farming used to be.

Organic just means no chemicals, no fertilizer made in a factory, no toxins that get transferred to your body, just pure water.

Natural refers to something that

is not 100% organic, maybe the manure is not organic or they use a fertilizer but it is 100% grown under open sky and not processed with any harmful chemicals.

Locally grown is pretty obvious, why buy something a little cheaper 1000’s of miles away when you get a better taste and less pollution if you select a local producer?

Organic Love invites you to enjoy their adjusted menu in their little slice of tranquility here in La Cruz.

Located on #14 Delphin Ave in La Cruz. Come and visit us Monday through Saturday, 8-5pm.

The World on Your TV El Mundo en su TV is offering an internet streaming device that allows almost all TV channels in the world (over 100 from the USA, thousands from Europe; over 80 countries in total), that are being streamed live, to be available on your TV, with no monthly fees.

about everything on our website at www.elmundoensutv.com. If you are interested in our device, that is completely portable, please contact us to offer a demonstration of the capabilities.

We offer to demonstrate the unit in your house or condo, free of charge. If You would also have almost all live you wish a demonstration in our office, sporting events, all movies and all TV that is free of charge. series. Again, with no monthly fees.

The purchase price is 100 USD or the The most important aspect is this is exchange rate of the day. If you decide completely internet-based; you have to to purchase it with a personal installahave 7 Mb/S of speed, more is better. tion and demonstration, the additional In my office, we only have 7 Mb/S and charge is only 200 Pesos. it works fine.

If you are unsatisfied after 7 days, I will With 10, it is like watching TV, Period. refund your entire amount paid. The I also offer a complete manual of how installation charge is not refundable. to truly enjoy this experience, as well as instructions on how to even make Tel. 221 0111 Local 20, it better for you. We provide YouTube Las Palmas 2, Marina Vallarta. videos, as well as written instructions todd@remaxinpv.com

w w w. e l m u n d o e n s u t v. c o m

riviera nayarit

30

March 16 - 22, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

10 ‘Wows’ Marking Riviera Nayarit’s 10th Anniversary

Fun on the Riviera Nayarit

Dawna L. Robertson

E

volving from an underthe-radar “Puerto Vallarta suburb” ten minutes north of Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) into a full-fledged destination spanning 192 miles of pristine Pacific coastline, Riviera Nayarit has become a major Mexico tourism player in what could be considered a relatively short time span.

In that 10-year process, the destination has followed a conscientious plan placing a premium on preserving the region’s protected natural wonders. Extending from the resort area of Nuevo Vallarta beyond the historic fishing village of San Blas, the 192-mile coastline along Banderas Bay continues to lure visitors into authentic charm.

Discover miles of deserted beaches dotted by low-key palapas with fresh huachinango zarandeado (whole grilled fish) and cold coconut juice.

In its concept stage, a team comprised of Marc Murphy (Managing Director of Riviera Nayarit CVB), Richard Zarkin (Public Relations Manager of Riviera Nayarit CVB) and several other key tourism experts brainstormed on a name and identity/positioning for the region. The intent was to ultimately establish the destination as “Mexico’s Pacific Treasure.”

As Zarkin recalls, the team engaged with hotels, tour operators, airlines, travel agents and other partners to enlist their support for creating the new tourism area and the utilization of the Riviera Nayarit moniker.

“Riviera Nayarit has grown gradually, attracting the most luxurious hotel brands in the world, building the most impressive yacht harbor on Mexico’s Pacific Coast and increasing its visitors,” says Zarkin. “However, we are very careful to protect the nature, beaches and development to assure that our visitors can still find the pristine beach experience for which Riviera Nayarit is known.”

Attesting to this success are Riviera Nayarit’s Blue Flag and Certified Clean Beach certifications. “Over the past 10 years, each of the towns and resorts – together with Riviera Nayarit’s Department of the Environment – carefully protected the beaches, and the

Cat Morgan www.rivieranayaritfun.com Cat@RivieraNayaritFun.com

natural flora and fauna. Certifications like this prove that we truly care about our land and we are doing everything possible to assure that it is safe, clean and protected.”

Nature enthusiasts gravitate here for such natural highs as whale watching, turtle releases, ziplining, surfing and bird watching. Riviera Nayarit also lures global guests with such diversions as spa treatment, championship golf courses, international cuisine and intriguing culture of its native Huichol tribe.

Accommodations range from quaint B&B and eco-tourism events to posh luxury resorts. On the luxe front, Riviera Nayarit has hauled in four AAA Five Diamond hotels, 11 AAA Four Diamond hotels, 13 AAA Three Diamond hotels, one AAA Five Diamond restaurant, six AAA Four Diamond restaurants and 26 AAA Three Diamond restaurants.

In reaching the 10-year milestone, Zarkin notes that the CVB is extremely optimistic about the next decade. “Riviera Nayarit is excited about its potential for becoming better known in the future, yet retaining its intrinsic style,” he says.

“We anticipate that over the next 10 years, travelers will treasure even more the protected and serene natural luxury of the destination.”

Visitors into luxe stays will be privy to openings of One&Only Mandarina, Fairmont Costa Canuva (2018) and Rosewood Mandarina Resorts (2019). Especially intriguing to golfers is that the latter will feature a course designed in tandem by PGA star Greg Norman

and LPGA star Lorena Ochoa.

Also on the recreation front, Cirque du Soleil will debut in 2019 at the Vidanta Hotels & Resorts in Nuevo Vallarta.

Here are 10 “wows” that differentiate this stellar Pacific Coast destination: 1) Home to the longest black beach in Latin America 2) Features 95 miles of pristine, undeveloped coastline with a sprinkling of tiny villages extending north from San Blas to Novilleros 3) Awarded 12 Clean Beaches certifications—more than any other region in Mexico 4) Home to two of Nayarit State’s three Blue Flag Distinctions 5) Appeases birdwatchers with 80% of North American migratory birds visiting annually 6) Thrills nature enthusiasts with hundreds of humpback whales, dolphins and sport fishing species annually 7) Offers rare turtle release programs that allow visitors to liberate hatchlings into the Pacific 8) Protected Marietta Islands sanctuary renowned for the Hidden Beach is fresh from an expert restoration 9) In 2017, National Geographic named Playa del Amor one of the top 21 beaches in the world, while Forbes selected Riviera Nayarit as one of the top destinations of the year 10) More than 50 hotels and restaurants recognized with Three, Four and Five AAA Diamond Awards Original: Travel Pulse

Hey Everybody! As we swing into spring nothing has seemed to slow down. Remember our clocks here on the Riviera Nayarit and PV change April 2. Lend a hand when you can and have fun being in service. Let’s check out what has been going on at the Octopus Garden all season!

English School of La Cruz Starting the first week each year in January a group of volunteer teachers meet at Octopus Garden Restaurant in La Cruz from 5-6pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays for three months to teach English to the national residents of La Cruz.

How did this all start?? With Della Sullivan!

Della has a degree in teaching from Southern Illinois University, although her life long career was as a business woman. Seven years ago Della Sullivan (who came to La Cruz in 2006) went and asked Aruna and Wayland if it would be OK to teach English at the Octopus Garden. She only had two students at that time, which then grew to two tables, and the next year more students came. Sandy Baker, who taught conversational English joined

forces with Della and not only did they teach English, but took the class to the Zoo that year! Della could not make it in January the next year due to medical issues, when she arrived in February, Sandy already had the classes going. Della states, “Thanks to help from La Donna and Adana, in a few days I was teaching three tables of students and anyone who could sit on the edge of the fountain.” In the fourth year there were more students than one teacher could handle, so volunteers were asking to be a part of the experience.

It was at this point after the fourth year that Della returned to Illinois and went back to school for her certifications in ESL< TESL, TESOL and TEFL. Each year the amount of students and teachers grew.

Della says, “The teachers are the jewel of this school. Most are from Canada or the United States, but some have been from England, Germany, Ireland, and this year a wonderful young man from Australia.”

This year is the seventh year and Mary Chuy and Alfredo who manage the restaurant now allow

riviera nayarit

31 Della the use of the Octopus Garden’s complete first floor for the school. Della does all of the lessons in both English and Spanish, so the teachers get to learn a bit of Spanish as well. The English School of La Cruz has grown so much. They are now up to 24 full time volunteer teachers with over 100 students of all ages and abilities. There is even a table of adults this season!

Della is very grateful to her husband Scott, who does the set up and tear down each class.

He is also in charge of check in and is photographer and this year videographer as well. Della comments, “This has been a true joy for me. I love hearing “teacher” as I walk on the streets of La Cruz.

I love the hugs from students past and present, as do many of my teachers. I am blessed with many teachers as friends. I am living my dream.”

If anyone has interest in becoming a teacher next year please contact Della Sullivan at delksullivan@ yahoo.com, MX cell 322-2407222, USA cell 217-825- 8393.

What a fabulous job Della has done! Thank YOU Della and to all of the volunteers who make a difference in so many lives.

Amigos de La Cruz Sail Away party; La Peska Restaurante, Tuesday March 28th, 6pm, $500 Pesos donation. Come have fun at the last bash for the high season with a dinner and LIVE auction, and support the Amigos de La Cruz. Twosome of golf in Punta de Mita Club de golf, art work, restaurant gift certificates, Orchid Farm tour in La Penita for five, Chica Locca to Yelapa or the Marietas for five.You may purchase your tickets at the La Cruz Marina Sunday Market-Amigos Table or on www.amigosdelacruz.org BONE MARROW FOR CLAUDIA Medical Fundraiser; This surgery takes a lot of money.

Please message Gwen at: rdbaern@yahoo.com or Sandi at: rsnystrom@hotmail.com for more information. Please consider donating 200 peso to this fund: https://gogetfunding.com/ bone-marrow-4-claudia/ Every little bit will help us reach our goal and save a young mother’s life.

Thanks for tuning in this week. A reminder Sonny Davis is performing Mantra Magic at the Octopus Garden on the 20th at 7:30. Contact me at Cat@ RivieraNayaritFun for questions.

Email me at CatPVTribune@ Gmail.com for advertising your business! BE SEEN in the Vallarta Tribune! AHO!

March 16 - 22, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Rincon de Guayabitos – Riviera Nayarit’s best kept secret

I

n the Jaltemba Bay, nestled between the tropical vegetation of the Sierra Madre Occidental Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, hides the quiet seaside town of Rincon de Guayabitos. Named for the groves of guava trees that once lined the shore, the name translates to “corner of the little guava trees” and nowhere will visiting vacationers find a better value for a beach escape in authentic Mexico.

In the 1970’s the Mexican government decided that Guayabitos was to become a resort and an area where foreigners could own property. Since then, many North Americans have discovered the affordable pleasures of Guayabitos and its handful of neighboring coastal towns and villages.

Visitors often rent or even buy vacation homes here, but others will find the offering of B&B’s and small independent hotels and resorts in this area some 40 miles north of Puerto Vallarta International Airport equally appealing.

For centuries the home of fishermen, farmers, owners of family-run restaurants and other businesses, Guayabitos, with a population of scarcely 2,000 permanent residents, is, for the visitor, an opportunity to immerse oneself in timeless Mexico before the rest of the world changes it.

There is only one main street, Avenida del Sol Nuevo, parallel to the beach stretching the entire length of Guayabitos. It divides the town into two areas: the Hotel and Commercial Zone on the south

and the Residential Zone on the north.

The Hotel and Commercial Zone is home to several mercados (grocery stores), pharmacies, boutiques offering Mexican handicrafts, clothing stores, discos and restaurants featuring Mexican and American cuisine. Many of Guayabitos’ modestly priced hotels, bungalows and condos are located in this area. During the low season, August to November, hotels are only half full and nightly rates range from US$14 to US$50; weekly and monthly rooms are available.

There are several trailer parks with boat launches. The atmosphere here is casual, relaxed and “beach-y.” The beach itself is the real protagonist of this destination. Stretching about 1 ½ miles wide, the spectacular flat beach consists of golden sand with calm blue waters. It is lined with palapa-covered restaurants and bustling with beach vendors in colorful canopied carts selling everything from coconut drinks to shrimp on

a stick. In fact, the water is so calm that Guayabitos’ beach is referred to as “The Largest Swimming Pool in the World.” The beach is perfect for walking, swimming, people watching or to simply sit and run one’s toes through the sand under the warm sun.

Farther down the beach there is an area that is good for bodysurfing and boogie boarding. Afternoon winds make for good sailing and windsurfing.

The majority of restaurants in Guayabitos are family-run.

The local cuisine is seafood and Mexican dishes. Around town one can find a few fruit stands and stalls with fresh fruits such as mangos, pineapples, papayas and melons. Vista Guayabitos is a must-try when visiting the area; the restaurant sits atop one of the highest points in Guayabitos and offers a spectacular view of the entire Jaltemba Bay. For the traveler who wants to do more than eat well and lie on the beach, Guayabitos and the surrounding region has a lot to see

and do.

The deep sea fishing for marlin, sailfish and tuna is excellent yearround. In the winter months the famous humpback whale migration provides ample opportunities for whale watching and three native species of endangered sea turtles – the Olive Ridley, the Leatherback and the Hawksbill – become the focus of hatchling releases. Birdwatching – Mexico is home to more species of birds than the U.S. and Canada combined – draws visitors from around the world while others come for horseback riding, hiking, cycling or trekking.

The rugged Sierra Madre which protects the coastline provides plenty of opportunities for mountain adventures. Horseback riding trips are available through the tropical rainforest of Los Ayala, through the mountains or through the beach.

And, on Monday mornings, the town’s “tianguis” or market brings out the entire population.

Boat trips to Isla Coral, a small island visible from shore, go for just $5 per person. Glass bottom boats line the shore waiting to take people for a ride near this island where one can view marine life through the boat bottom and see frigate birds and terns nesting on the island.. There is a good spot offshore, Isla Cangrejo, accessible only by boat for people to snorkel or scuba dive. Other nearby beaches include Playa los Ayala and Playa del Beso on a tiny secluded cove reachable by a path over the hills.

The often deserted beach at Punta Raza is another favorite, along with the lesser known La Peñita de Jaltemba and Chacala.

Art and culture lovers can visit the Altavista archeological site near Chacala with important petroglyphs. This area was home to the Tecoxquin culture and is now an important religious center for the indigenous Huichols.

Sports enthusiasts will find jet skis, water skiing, tennis and its mini-version, pickle ball, all available as well as Campo del Ensueño nine-hole golf course (though several signature championship courses are nearby in Punta Mita, Puerto Vallarta and other resort areas), yoga and massages on the beach.

Getting to Guayabitos is as simple as pointing your car north and heading past Sayulita about another 30 minutes. There is a well market turn off and stop light. Turn left and just follow the road to the beach.

Originally published in MexiGo! Magazine

32

AwayTop Ten New Project riviera nayarit

March 16 - 22, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Sail T Away Sail Tues, March 28 Sail 6 PM Sail Away Sail Sail Away Away Away Away

Adios to Mexico until next season

Adios to Mexico until next season

Adios to toTues, Mexico March until 28 Adios Mexico until next next season season

he Riviera Nayarit is a destination that’s constantly evolving: in 2016 alone it welcomed the grand opening of the Hotel W Punta de Mita, a Greg Norman-designed Golf Course at Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta, the La Cruz-Punta de Mita highway, and the renovation of San Pancho’s La Patrona Polo and Equestrian Club.

There are also several other projects on the table, some will be ready this year and others have been recently announced, but they’ll all bring in more development, which is why they’re being included in the Top Ten New Projects in Riviera Nayarit.

La6 Peska PM Restaurante Adios tototo Mexico until next season Adios Mexico until next season Adios Mexico until next season La Cruz Marina Adios toTues, Mexico until next season March 28 March 28 Adios toTues, Mexico until next season La Peska Restaurante 10 – Punta de Mita’s Commu6 PM nity Center 6until PMnext Cruz Marina It’s been just a few weeks since Adios to MexicoLa season Tues, March 28 the inauguration of the first stage Tues,March March28 28 Tues, Tues, March 28 of the Soriana del Mar CommuTues, March 28 La Peska Restaurante PM nity Center in the Nuevo Corral del 6 PM PM La66Peska Restaurante 6 PM Risco in Punta de Mita, a space La Cruz Marina 6 PM administered by the Punta de Mita Tues,LaMarch 28 Cruz Marina Foundation that is expected to be Peska Restaurante La ready at the end of the year. The Peska Restaurante LaLaPeska Restaurante 6 PM La Peska Restaurante center will contribute to the commu-

LaLaPeska Cruz Restaurante Marina La Cruz Marina your choice Portobello or Surf/Turf;La Panacota.

Peska Restaurante choice Portobello or Surf/Turf; La Panacota.

Cruz Marina

CruzMarina Marina LaLaCruz Plated 3-Course Dinner & Drink: Spinach Plated 3-Course Dinner & Drink: Spinach La Salad; CruzSalad; Marina

your

nity, artistic, social and environmental development of the region.

9 – The Grand Sirenis Matlali by the beach The renovated Grand Sirenis Matlali, a resort perched on the mountain at La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, was inaugurated in July 2016. At that moment the Grupo Autofin Monterrey announced the second stage of the beachfront development, located on one side of the Marina Riviera Nayarit. It represents an investment of 28.5 million dollars to build 140 suites, with a tentative completion date of December 2017. There is more construction pending on the additional 790 acres of development on the mountain.

8 – The Grand Krystal in Flamingos The Grupo Hotelero Santa Fe announced a month ago the acquisition and expansion of the hotel Bel Air in Flamingos, Riviera Nayarit, which will operate under the brand Krystal Grand. The project will also include a new Convention Center, as well as 480 rooms and one suite, a dozen restaurants and bars and other amenities; it is scheduled for completion by the end of 2017.

7 – New Hotel Iberostar in Litibú “The more you get to know the Riviera Nayarit, the more you want to know about it,” commented Miguel Fluxá, Executive President

Live Auction with Dinner “Col. Cal Donald” calling and Jim Brown Plated 3-Course & Drink: Spinach Salad; Plated 3-Course Dinner & Drink: Spinach Salad; as Ring Man. your with choice“Col. Portobello or Donald” Surf/Turf; Panacota.

Live Auction Cal calling and Jim Brown your choice Portobello or Surf/Turf; Panacota.

Many luxury items at Auction prices: Four Seasons Plated 3-Course Dinner & Drink: Spinach Salad; Plated 3-Course Dinner &Drink: Drink: Spinach Salad; Plated 3-Course Dinner Spinach Salad; Live Auction with “Col.&Cal Donald” calling and Jim Brown as Ring Man. Plated 3-Course Dinner & Drink: Spinach Salad; golf twosomes, original art, Chica Locca and lots more.

Plated 3-Course Dinner & Drink: Spinach Salad; Live Auction with “Col. Donald” calling and Jim Brown your choice Portobello ororCal Surf/Turf; Panacota. your choice Portobello or Surf/Turf; Panacota. your choice Portobello Surf/Turf; Panacota. as Ring Man. your choice Portobello or Surf/Turf; Panacota.

Music by Trenzas Negras as Ring Man. Many luxury items at Auction prices: Four Seasons your choice Portobello or&Surf/Turf; Panacota.

Plated 3-Course Dinner Drink: Spinach Salad; Many luxury items at Auction prices: Four Seasons Live Auction with “Col. Cal Donald” calling and Jim Brown Live Auction with “Col. Cal Donald” calling and Jim Brown Live Auction with “Col. Cal Donald” calling and Jim Brown Live Auction with “Col. Cal Donald” calling and Jim Brown Many luxury items at Auction prices: Four Seasons your choice Portobello or Surf/Turf; Panacota. golf twosomes, original art, Chica Locca and Live Auction with “Col.art, Cal Donald” calling andlots Jimmore.

Brown as Ring Man. as Ring Man. as Ring Man. golf twosomes, original Chica Locca and lots more. as Ring Man. golf twosomes, original art, Chica Locca and lots more. as Ring Music byMan. Trenzas Negras Many luxury items atat Auction Four Seasons Many luxury items at Auction prices: Four Seasons Many luxury items Auction prices: Four Seasons Tickets $500 pesos Live Auction with “Col. Calprices: Donald” calling and Jim Brown Many luxury items at Auction prices: Four Seasons Music byMusic Trenzas Negras by Trenzas Negras Many luxury items at Auction prices: Four Seasons as Ring Man. golf twosomes, original art, Chica Locca and lots more. golf twosomes, original art, Chica Locca and lots more. golf twosomes, original art, Chica Locca and lots more.

Online www.amigosdelacruz.org or at Amigos’ table at Sunday Market. golf twosomes, original art, Chica Locca and lots more.

Questions? David Hibbard at dchibb@live.com

golf twosomes, original art, Chica Locca lots more.

Many luxury items at Auction prices: Four and Seasons Music by Trenzas Negras Music by Trenzas Negras Music by Trenzas Negras Music by Trenzas Negras Tickets $500 pesos Music

by Trenzasoriginal Negras golf twosomes, art, Chica Locca and lots more.

Tickets $500 pesos Online www.amigosdelacruz.org or at Amigos’ table at Sunday Market.

Music by Trenzas Negras Questions? David Hibbard at dchibb@live.com Tickets $500 pesos Online www.amigosdelacruz.org or at Amigos’ table at Sunday Market.

Tickets $500 pesos Tickets $500 pesos Tickets $500 pesos Tickets $500 pesos Online www.amigosdelacruz.org or at Amigos’ table at Sunday Market.

Online www.amigosdelacruz.org or at Amigos’ table at Sunday Market. e www.amigosdelacruz.org or at Amigos’ table at Sunday Market.

Online www.amigosdelacruz.org or at Amigos’ table at Sunday Market.

Online www.amigosdelacruz.org or at Amigos’ table at Sunday Market.

Questions? David Hibbard at dchibb@live.com Questions? David Hibbard at dchibb@live.com Questions? David Hibbard at dchibb@live.com

Online www.amigosdelacruz.org or at Amigos’ table at Sunday Market. ons? David Hibbard at dchibb@live.com Questions? David Hibbard at dchibb@live.com

Tickets $500 pesos Questions? David Hibbard at dchibb@live.com Questions? David Hibbard at dchibb@live.com

Tickets $500 pesos

Online www.amigosdelacruz.org or at Amigos’ table at Sunday Market.

Questions? David Hibbard at dchibb@live.com

of the Grupo Iberostar, on the day he inaugurated the Iberostar Playa Mita within the Integrally Planned Resort (CIP by its acronym in Spanish) in Litibú. And he was dead serious, so much so that there are already plans underway for a second property from this Spanish chain to be built in the resort development.

6 – Hilton Hoteles & Resorts acquires La Tranquila And there is more news coming from within the CIP: the Hilton chain has acquired La Tranquila, so expect renovations and new projects for this Litibú development.

5 – New highway and dock at San Blas Last month the Government of the State of Nayarit inaugurated the new Tepic-San Blas Highway, which reduces the distance between the capital and the Historic Port to just a 20-minute drive. Together with the new dock at San Blas, this coastal municipality in the Riviera Nayarit will surely see a spike in domestic visitors.

4 – The Cirque du Soleil theme park at Grupo Vidanta Gripo Vidanta has certainly brought new infrastructure to the Riviera Nayarit, which includes the new golf course built just a year ago and the new convention center that’s about to open its doors. As if this weren’t enough, there are plans for the very first Cirque du Soleil theme park in the world to open here in 2018.

3 – Jala-Bahía de Banderas Highway The most ambitious highway project in the region keeps advan-

riviera nayarit

33

ts in Riviera Nayarit

cing little by little, on its way to complete its 105-mile total. Once it’s finished it will reduce the drive time from Guadalajara and its surroundings to the beach from five hours to a little over two. The first stretch is practically complete and the second part is estimated to be finished by December 2017; work on the third segment will begin in 2018.

2 – La Mandarina complex The One&Only Mandarina hotel is under construction with a budget of 110 million dollars and 125 luxury rooms plus other amenities, with a projected opening date for the end of 2018. The development of La Mandarina in the Monteón at Compostela takes it one step further: this complex spans over 630 acres with an investment of 870 million dollars and will include two polo fields, an equestrian center, two obstacle courses, villas and new hotels, with a Rosewood property among them.

1 – Costa Canuva CIP The most ambitious project in the Riviera Nayarit is the Costa Canuva CIP, which has an area of over 550 acres with over four miles of beach and a capital of 1.8 billion dollars, creating over seven thousand new rooms. The development is expected to host five luxury hotels, the first under the Fairmont brand, as well as the first PGA golf course co-designed by Lorena Ochoa and Greg Norman, among many other projects. The Governor of Nayarit confirmed Cristian Ronaldo will build a home in Costa Canuva, to a large extent thanks to his relationship with Portuguese company Mota-Engil, the top investor in the development.

March 16 - 22, 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 Join us for St. Patrick’s Day! Friday March 17

SPORTS! SPORTS! MORE SPORTS! It’s Here MARCH MADNESS NCAA Basketball This Week March 14 &15: First Four Play In Games MARCH 16-18: 1st & 2nd Round Regionals!

SEE ALL THE ACTION AT TESCALAMA!

FOR ALL YOUR SPORTS AND EVENTS ENTERTAINMENT High def big screen TV’s and the best audio system around! Don’t miss anything! Open 7 days a week!

5 T V’S

329 295-6083 FB/Tescalama La Cruz tescalamalacruz.com

events

34

Events Calendar La Isla to host River of Arte 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 17 Shabbat Services sponsored by the Puerto Vallarta Jewish Community will be held at 6:30 pm at Casa Carmen on Calle Jesus Langarica #129. Please email if you would like to volunteer to read. Join us for dinner following the service. RSVP

by March 14 PVJC email: helth1@ sbcglobal.net March 18 RISE 2017 Fundraiser Dinner Celebracion para los Ninos! From 5-9pm at Now Amber Resort in downtown Puerto Vallarta. $800 pesos VIP$1200 Sofiarobles@gmail. com for tickets and more details.

March 21 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 21 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

2017 Exhibition and Sale

A

re you looking for the perfect souvenier? Or to decorate your home? Then on March 19 from 10 am to 9 pm, visit the La Isla shopping center where the River of Arte 2017 exhibition and sale will take place. This year, more than 35 artists will be showcasing the very best of Puerto Vallarta's vibrant art scene along the breathtaking promenade of the La Isla Shopping Centre located in the Hotel Zone.

The wide range of art available for purchase includes watercolors, oils, mixed media, acrylic, charcoal

and stained glass. Styles range from native portraits, landscape and folk to collage and contemporary.

The largest gathering of artists in one place, River of Arte draws enthusiastic crowds each year.

There is no charge for admission and 20% of sales proceeds will benefit LADRA dog rescue and adoption; DIVAC services for the handicapped; and the Ballet Folclórico Infantiles del Jorullo, a children's traditional dance troupe.

For more information, contact Carolina at doggonegoodcarolina(at)yahoo.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.

Children and Seniors to Benefit from Gospel Concert

M

March 16 - 22, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Mercado at Los Mangos Library Los Mangos Saturday 9-2pm

ezzo soprano vocalist and violinist Margie Salcedo Rice, will be singing gospel songs and playing her violin to raise money for feeding mission children and seniors. Doors open at 6:00 pm on Sunday, March 19 for viewing a presentation of mission project pictures.

The concert begins at 7:00 pm.

The venue is the Paradise Village Community Center, Paseo de los Cocoteros 13 (between San Javier Hospital and Harkness Institute in Nuevo Vallarta).

Donation tickets are $300 pesos per person. Children under 12 are free. Call Brenda for tickets, (322) 297-2496 ext. 5323. Tickets will also be available at the door.

March 22 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

Continued on page 37

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

shopping

35

March 16 - 22, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Marsol Friday Market by the Pier

O

ne of the most exciting things about Artisan Markets is the diversity of products available at reasonable prices and usually sold by the artist. That alone makes shopping a whole lot more interesting than passing row after the same-row of department store fare.

While being entertained by Gabriel Reyes – our wonderful singer-guitarist, one can browse through hand-painted tiles depicting scenes of Puerto Vallarta

to fabulous leather hand bags, change purses and wallets; the air redolent with the smell of cowhide.

Gorgeous crocheted clothing, cotton shorts for kids, wall hangings made from tree bark and jewellery for every budget.

Our Food Court has Mexican, Asian and Italian food; coffee, fresh bread, croissants stuffed with ham and cheese and our baker’s excel with sticky buns, peanut butter cookies and angel food cake (get there early). Services, like Sandra’s

Walking Tours, are not available anywhere else in Vallarta.

Learn, not only our history, but learn about the plants and flowers; Sandra knows them all and has written books you can take with you easily to identify our flora as you pass by.

Dozens and dozens of reasons to stop by the Marsol Friday Market by the Pier; we are open from 9:30 to 1:30 pm. Don’t forget our monthly Bazaar happening on Tuesday, March 28th!

Three Hens & a Rooster Market News

C

eramics are one of Mexico’s most important expressions of art. We are so fortunate to have Froylan Hernandez at Three Hens to display his wonderful pottery. From large vases to a mother humpback whale with her calf, Froylan will have something you can take home to remind you always of Vallarta.

Pat Wagner is having a sale on her lovely decorative throw pillows and also has beautiful clothing for women in plus-sizes. She is

Mind - blowing Moving Sale

W

hen you’ve met as many celebrities as Larry has, it wouldn’t be surprising that your home would be filled with Hollywood memorabilia glamour! As a fan of the Hollywood’s most celebrated periods, The Golden Era, Larry has always had a passion for tinsel-town’s finest actors and motion pictures.

His corridor is graced with the likes of the incomparable Bette Davis, the sultry Mae West and MVP jockey of all time, Buddy Rogers! In addition to the Larry’s infamous walk of fame, he carries an assortment of gorgeous antiquities that will make Ian Towning scream for her majesty!

Each item was carefully selected, some of which were even designed

by Larry himself!

We will also be showcasing one-of-a-kind John Harding jewelry and turn-of-the-century Tiffany & Co. stationary!

Come and take advantage of the mind blowing furnishings found nowhere else in México! Some of the furnishings include (but not limited to) an enormous King sized sleigh bed, unique antique bronze lamps, mid century credenzas, deli-

ghtful patio furniture and one huge 50+ inch flat screen television set!

This moving sell will go FAST so make that appointment…TODAY! Should you need help in coordinating an estate, moving or special sale event….Give us a call, we are here to help.

We, as professional liquidators, specialize in appraisals, vending and organizing all the details pertaining to your selling event. With that being said, follow the premier lights to Larry’s condo for what will surely be an event you don’t want to miss!

Seller/Company Jovany Jara – “Ropero de Jovany” +1-323-386-1678 (Whatsapp) / 322-260-4943 (Office) jovany@roperodejovany.net Date: Appointments Only: Friday, March 17th & Saturday, March 18th (10am – 2pm) Open House: Sunday, March 19th (10am – 2pm) Where: Larry Krick’s Condominium Calle Naranjo #449 Condo #3 Col. Emiliano Zapata, Puerto Vallarta

baking sweet and savoury breads, peaches and cream pound cake and every colour/variety of fudge there is!

Monica has single-serving lasagnas. Bill Kelly has new fabric featuring all kinds and colors of kitties and already made into zippered covers.

Edwige, our resident painter has a whole gallery upstairs so check that out and see a few other paintings of hers scattered about the walls downstairs. Marcia has

shoes and handbags for half price and Ricardo Mazcal has restocked finally and has his shelves full.

Jeanine and Barbara have Buffalo Salads to go and Gloria Sue has lots of fried chicken.

Check Juan Manuel’s table for wire and stone creatures including iguanas for your garden. Artistic and durable!

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

ADORABLE DOG IN THE SPOTLIGHT...

COSMO

by Janice Gonzalez

C

osmo is a beautiful Labrador/Pointer mix a bit over a year old and weighing 50.6 pounds. He is a medium/high energy guy and

quite independent. He gets along well with other dogs who are submissive but he doesn’t like cats. Cosmo loves his humans and enjoys nothing more than spending time exploring the great outdoors. Cosmo needs an active

family who will take him hiking or for long walks. Neutered, dewormed and fully vaccinated Cosmo is ready for his forever home. If you are interested, please contact us at spcapv@ gmail.com for an application.

VALLARTA SHOPPING AND SER

for shows & times visit

www.BTPV.org

...come play with us!

Tickets available -Vallarta Tickets -Theatre Box Office

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

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

Are you selling your home?

Over 50,000 readers each month with delivery from Mismaloya to Sayulita and the only paper distributed at the airport in International arrivals.

Contact editor@vallartatribune.com to learn more!

THIS SPACE IS FOR YOU

English Spoken Puerto Vallarta & Banderas Bay Real Estate * Trusts * Wills * Inmigration * Civil Criminal Specializing in Immigration.

Real Estate. Condominium Law

Cell. 322 278 6694 felixzaratelawyer@gmail.com

Hand-made Mexican Tiles, Talaver a, Saltillo, Mosaico

CALL US

225 4982 599 Juarez, El Centro, Puerto Vallarta 322 206 2536 sales@colibridesignvallarta.com

RVICES Continued from page 34 March 22 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 28 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

MAADRI Fine Resort Wear For Women and Men

T

he newest fashion boutique in Puerto Vallarta’s popular Old Town, featuring original designs made with the highest quality linen and cotton fabrics, beautiful, unique accessories and more.

Located in Plaza Romy across from Superior Tours Ignacio L Vallarta #228 in Col. Emiliano Zapata Open Tues - Sat 11am- 6 pm or by appt. Call 322.190.0858 Facebook.com/maadripv - One hour free parking.

Do you hurt when you move?

March 28 SAIL AWAY at La Peska Restaurant - La Cruz Marina To benefit Amigos de La Cruz de Huancaxtle, A.C. Contact Patricia Spencer for tickets spencerp@live.ca More information at www.amigosdelacruz.org March 28 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 28 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 29 Purr Project Bingo Margarita Grill – Basilio Badillo 5pm Fundraiser for the kitties of Vallarta.

3 bingo cards $100mx April 5 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

www.vallartatribune.com

Lower back pain? Neck and shoulder pain? Poor posture?

I can help you get out of pain and move better.

60 minute session only $625pesos

Via Anderson Certified Yoga and Movement Coach Founder of Intelligent Movement Forever yogawithvia@gmail.com Call 322 224 0879 www.intelligentmovementforever.com

2 x 1 on all Food from 4 to 6 pm with this ad

“I feel more relaxed, more alive, more open and less pain after our sessions.”

Adrienne R.

A true neighborhood bar!

The “CHEERS” of PV with daily specials, all the sports, live music, pool table, events and much more!

Aquiles Serdan # 625 Col. Emiliano Zapata Phone: 223-4006 michael@quepasavallarta.com quepasavallarta.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

entertainment

38

By Fred Jacobs

W

hen we left off last week, Ike and Tina were having some minor success, but that was about to explode. In 1965, famed record producer, Phil Spector, caught an Ike and Tina performance in Los Angeles. Phil made it his mission to sign Tina, but had to take Ike in the package deal.

Tina Turner World Class Singer Part Two – Raising Success

Tina’s own profile was raised after several solo appearances on US TV shows, such as American Bandstand.

With Phil, Tina produced the song

“River Deep - Mountain High”, which was released in 1966. Phil considered that record to be his best work to date.

It was successful overseas, parti-

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

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

March 16 - 22, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

cularly in the UK, where it reached number three on the singles chart, but it failed to go any higher than #88 in the United States.

But the impact of the record gave Ike and Tina an opening spot for The Rolling Stones’ UK tour later that fall, which was later extended to performing all over Europe and Australia.

In 1968, Tina’s cover of “I’ve Been Loving You Too Long” earned her a

Grammy nomination for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance.

The success of the recent albums led to the Ike and Tina headlining at Las Vegas where their shows were attended by many celebrities including David Bowie, Sly Stone, Janis Joplin, Cher, James Brown, Ray Charles, Elton John, and Elvis Presley.

In 1969, Ike and Tina’s profile in the US, was raised after opening for the Rolling Stones on their US tour.

In 1970, they also performed on The Ed Sullivan Show, introducing them to the living rooms of the US. The tour’s success resulted in Ike and Tina signing with Liberty Records, and they released two albums, “Come Together” (1970) and “Workin’ Together” (1971).

Later in 1971, their live album, “What You Hear Is What You Get”, which taken from a performance at Carnegie Hall, was their first album to be certified gold. After Liberty was bought by United Artists Records, the duo was assigned to that label, releasing ten albums in a three-year period. The duo’s final major hit single together, “Nutbush City Limits”, was released in 1973, reaching number 22 on the Hot 100, and peaking at number four in the UK. In 1974, Tina released her first solo album, “Tina Turns the Country On!” winning another Grammy nomination.

Later in 1974, Tina traveled to London to appear in the film version of the rock musical, “Tommy” (1975). She played the role of “The Acid Queen”, a drug addicted prostitute who tries to coax Tommy into sex and illegal drug addiction and she also sang the song of the same name. Turner’s onscreen performance was critically acclaimed.

Following the release of “Tommy”, another Tina solo album, “Acid Queen”, was released in 1975.

By the mid-1970s, Ike’s excessive cocaine habit had gotten out of hand.

During this time, Tina adopted the Buddhist faith to help her deal through a stressful marriage and career. Due to Ike’s drug abuse, some shows were either canceled or postponed.

On July 2, 1976, Ike and Tina were en route from Los Angeles to Dallas where they had a show scheduled at the Dallas Statler Hilton.

The couple had a bloody fight during their ride to the hotel. Shortly after arriving to the hotel, Tina fled from the hotel and later hid at a friend’s house. Three weeks later, after years of abuse, Tina filed for divorce on the grounds of irreconcilable differences.

Next week we’ll look at Tina’s struggle to break free from Ike and explore the world and stardom totally on her own.

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

39

CROSSWORD SOLVE!

games

March 16 - 22, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com