Issue 1046, April 20 - 26, 2017

PEOPLE OF VALLARTA

SHOPPING

GOLD LEAF SMOKE SHOP

Southside Shuffle last week

Page 22

Page 12

VallartaTribune.com

E E FR

Office : 322 222 6678 info@ronmorgan.net

CASA ALEMAN

www.ronmorgan.net

$1,199,000 USD

April 20 - 26, 2017 Year 20 Free Issue 1046

E D UI G

Playa Los Muertos Semana Santa

Photo by Maj and Joan Jiwani

OLAS ALTAS FARMERS MARKET Page 09

Featured Property of the Week Page 21

SOUNDS OF MEXICO Page 18

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

April 20 - 26, 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 PASS DATE PRINCESS CRUISES 2,600 04/04/2017 CARNIVAL 3,200 05/04/2017 NORWEGIAN CRUISES 2,240 05/04/2017 HOLLAND AMERICA 1,200 09/04/2017 PRINCESS CRUISES 2,600 11/04/2017 CARNIVAL 3,200 12/04/2017 NORWEGIAN CRUISES 2,240 12/04/2017 CELEBRITY 2,499 14/04/2017 CARNIVAL 3,200 19/04/2017 NORWEGIAN CRUISES 2,240 19/04/2017 CELEBRITY 2,499 20/04/2017 HOLLAND AMERICA 1,850 22/04/2017

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

Consulates American Consulate 24 hrs 01-332-268-2100 Canadian Consulate 322.293.0098 322.293.0099 24 hrs: 1.800.706.2900

In port this month

In the month of April Puerto Vallarta welcomes 38,666 passengers!

CARNIVAL NORWEGIAN CRUISES HOLLAND AMERICA PRINCESS CRUISES

3,200 26/04/2017 2,240 26/04/2017 1,258 29/04/2017 2,400 29/04/2017

Vallarta Tribune is an activity and entertainment guide and merely publishes information as it is provided by the advertiser or event host. We do not assume responsibility in errors or omissions other than to correct them as soon as they are made known to us regarding event schedules, locations and/or prices. In addition, we do not assume any responsibility for erroneous inclusion or exclusion of information except to take reasonable care to ensure accuracy, that permission has been obtained to use it, and to remove it as soon as is practical upon receiving your notification of error. We recommend you always confirm prior to attending or visiting an event or establishment. Weekly publication edited, printed and distributed by Ediciones y Publicaciones Siete Junio, SA de CV Grupo Editorial Tribuna Calle 21 de Marzo # 1174 Col. Lomas del Coapinole Del. El Pitillal, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco México CP 48290 Tel. 226-0800 editor@vallartatribune.com * www.vallartatribune.com * www.facebook.com/vallarta.tribune

Cut out and put near your phone for handy reference

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editorial

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Editor’s

April 20 - 26, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Note

editor@vallartatribune.com

H

appy half-way point! This next weekend is the last of Semana Santa and then thebay will quiet down and most of us who work through high-season will take a much-needed break. But we still have this weekend so, get out and enjoy it! A fitting contribution from Arlene Pervin this week ruminates on her experiences of the sounds of Mexico and for sure those sounds have been amplified these past few days. When it’s all laid down on paper, there is no denying that Mexico is melodic and cacophonous.

Thank you for your thoughtful piece this week, Arlene. A new addition to our group of writers in Rachel Drinkard who has recently arrived on the scene from Alaska.

She interviews Samara Alpern who owns Gold Leaf Smoke Shop, a fitting article on this day of 4/20.

Incanto continues to offer a great line-up plus their breakfasts are the bomb! For those of us who will be here through April and into May there are some big events coming including the Cuisine of the Sun Festival at Villa La Estancia from the 26-29th of April, don't miss the locals discount through the Vallarta Tribune; the Folkloric Dance Festival runs from April 27 – May 7 and features 16 groups from Mexico and South America performing at Park Hidalgo and Los Arcos on the Malecon in the evenings at 7 pm; the Altruism Festival is on May 14 for the 13th year in a row.

This wonderful event raises funds for some twenty charities around the bay and is probably the 'best food and drink festival' for your money (and your altruism).

Starting May 15 and running until the end of the month we have Restaurant Week with select restaurants around the bay offering set menus for low prices. If you’ve been wanting to try a new spot – this is a great time at an even better price. I am about ready to do a road trip. I’m deciding on returning to Punta Perula in Costa

Punta Perula Jalisco Alegre which I visited briefly a couple months back, or taking to the highway and checking out the Aguascalientes fair – reportedly the country’s largest festival. So you can see my dilemma, escape the crowds for more crowds but something new, or escape the crowds for fewer people, to a place I have already been. Decisions, decisions!

By all accounts, Semana Santa has been busy but controlled. Beaches have been kept clean, the streets are crowded but people are happy.

There was still beer in the cooler at Oxxo the other night, another Easter miracle!

Reports say occupancy was 100% last weekend and will again be 100% this weekend. Puerto Vallarta has overcome whatever stigma it held in previous years.

And why not?! With these mountains and beaches, restaurants and clubs, the Malecon and thegreat towns that surround the city there is something for everyone! If you’re here congratulations! If not, well you should plan on it; if not for Semana Santa, then for another time. (Personally, I enjoy November with its cooler weather and dimi-

nishing humidity, warm ocean, the re-opening of all the venues/ restaurants and a smaller influx of tourists.) OK, that’s it for me this week. Please remember we have ongoing Farmer’s Markets and many businesses can still use your patronage before the season officially ends. Say no to that straw – Sin popote, por favor! And respect the environment. Don’t litter, don’t step on the turtles or pull the crocodiles' tails. And stay off the donkey at Andales!

Did you know that in Vallarta the American crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) can be found in the river systems, and mangroves? They are not alligators! Populations occur from the Atlantic and Pacific coasts of southern Mexico to South America as far as Peru and Venezuela. The best place to see these crocodiles (safely) is at Estero El Salado, the nature reserve across from Marina Vallarta, on the road to Boca de Tomates, just in front of the airport, (stay for lunch!) or at El Cora Crocodile Sanctuary, just past Nuevo Vallarta.

Safe travels!

Madeline

Dear Editor,

I

wanted to thank you for all of your kind efforts to help promote the Free Malecon Sculpture Tours that I have led for the last eleven years in support of our public library and cultural center, Bibilioteca Los Mangos.

Please note that the 9:30 AM tour on Tuesday, April 18th will be the last for this season. If you could kindly remove the tour from your weekly calendar of events, I’ll notify you of the details in advance of next season’s first tour on November 14th. These tours

have featured direct contact with two of the artists who have created sculptures on the Malecon, Jim Demetro of the “Vallarta Dancers,” “Woman Washing Clothes” and “Andale Bernardo” sculptures, as well as Mathis Lidice of the «Millennium» sculpture where the tour begins at the north end of the Malecon next to the Hotel Rosita.

Muchas Gracias, Gary Thompson Owner/Director Galeria Pacifico

11th Annual Folkloric Dance Festival on the Malecon

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ixteen dance groups from Mexico and South America will participate in the Eleventh Puerto Vallarta Folkloric Dance Festival. This annual event is organized by Grupo Folklorico Vallarta Azteca.

Held on April 27 through to May 7, the festival kicks off at 6:00 pm on April 27 with a parade that begins at Los Arcos on the Malecon and finishes at IPEJAL, the beach area before Sheraton Bugabilias, where an inauguration ceremony will be held to welcome the more than 600 participating dancers.

IPEJAL will be the festival's main venue with free performances every night at 7:00 pm. In addition, there will be free performances in at Los Arcos del Malecón amphitheater April 27-30, and at Parque

Hidalgo on May 3, 5, 6 & 7. Performances begin at 7:00 pm.

National groups coming from Aguascalientes, Baja California, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Colima, Estado de México, Guanajuato, Jalisco, Hidalgo, Michoacan, Nuevo Leon, Oaxaca and Sinaloa, and international dance companies coming from Chile, Colombia and Peru will participate in the Festival.

A prime opportunity to see some of the traditional costumes that represent a great part of Mexico's history and culture, as well as the music and dance styles. Don’t forget your camera!

More information and a schedule of event can be found on the Festival Vallarta Azteca del Folclor Internacional Facebook page.

Multi-Family Moving Sale April 28 & 29 from 10 - 2pm Collectibles, candles, catering equipment, vintage jewelry, & much more.

127 Calle Rodolfo Gomez in Old Town Café Bohemio Patio

local

April 20 - 26, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

“La Palapa”

Beachfront Condo #102 - 124 Amapas

FOR SALE

Two bedroom, two bathroom, large patio.

104 sq.m – 1120 sq.ft View of the pier and the bay.

Roof-top pool and deck.

Excellent location; walking distance to bars, clubs and restaurants.

Well-maintained building.

Asking price: $425,000 USD E-mail: jade_ent01@hotmail.com

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Jackie Bristow and Vanessa Amaro at Incanto

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ncanto welcomes Folk/Country/ Americana singer-songwriter Jackie Bristow for three nights only, April 20, 21, 22 at 8:00 p.m.

She just wrapped up a tour with Bonnie Raitt and will open for Olivia Newton-John following her performances at Incanto. Born in New Zealand, then transplanted to Australia and now Los Angeles, her beautiful voice and award-winning earnest songs resonate with her audiences. She will be accompanied by talented guitarist Mark Punch.

Soprano Vanessa Amaro will appear on two nights, April 27 & May 2 at 8:00. Born in Mexico City, she has a Degree in Music from the National Conservatory of Music.

Vanessa studied opera further at the International Society of Values of Mexican Artists, singing in workshops created by philanthropist Pepita Serrano, who heads a privately funded non-profit dedicated to promoting music education for children. Vanessa has also won several awards for her singing, including Best Performance at the Carlo

Morelli National Singing Contest in Mexico City. She was also a finalist in the Trujillo International Singing Contest in Peru, where she sang with the Peru Trujillo Symphony Orchestra. She has appeared in several of the main concert halls in Mexico, including the National Museum of Art and the National Museum of Anthropology, where she performed concerts featuring French and Latin American music.

Recently, she has worked as a vocal coach and a singer with a private tour company in Puerto Vallarta. She will be accompanied

by Jean-Guy Comeau (Jay-Gee) on piano.

Argentine duo Bohemia Viva presents ‘A Night in Argentina’ in two concerts at Incanto on Wednesday, April 19 & 26 at 8:00.

Their beautiful harmonizing vocals, coupled with the infusion of various styles and original music combine to create their unique sound.

Alberto Cuevas ‘El Diamante’ stars in ‘One Night in Mexico’ accompacontinued on page 27

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Airbnb eyes branch as popularity grows

Red light, Green Light: Customs to phase out traffic light lottery

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ew procedures to simplify process for travelers entering Mexico The traffic light lottery utilized by Mexican Customs will soon be a quirk of the past.

Changes intended to improve service to travelers include elimination of the traffic signals that randomly select people for a baggage search at Customs entry points.

At present, travelers must press a button when passing through Customs, and those who get a green light are free to go. The unlucky minority who get a red have their bags searched.

The changes will be implemented at Mexico City airport’s Terminal 2 as a pilot project and will include the elimination of Customs declarations forms that

April 20 - 26, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

are completed by travelers coming from abroad.

At airports, baggage will be inspected by x-ray scanners while in transit between planes and baggage carousels in coordination with the Federal Police.

Following the pilot, the new system will be introduced gradually at Terminal 1 in Mexico City and at the international airports in Cancún, Los Cabos, Guadalajara and Monterrey, through which 85% of international travelers arrive in Mexico.

Authorities say the new procedures, which are standard practice internationally, will make it simpler and safer for those travelers, for whom control and inspection measures will be imperceptible.

Original: mexiconewsdaily.com

B

ookings up 195% last year, number of properties 114% The popularity of Airbnb, an online marketplace for short-term accommodation, has been slow to explode in Mexico such as other similar services — Uber, for example.

But growth has now reached the point where the San Francisco-based company is considering setting up a local affiliate, writes business columnist Bárbara Anderson today in the newspaper Milenio.

The popular booking service now has 62,000 accommodation options in Mexico, everything from houses and apartments to mansions, ranches and lofts, an increase of 114% over 2015.

An even higher increase has been seen in the number of visitors accommodated. That figure was 974,000 last year, up 195% over 2015.

That’s still a fraction of Airbnb’s

international bookings, which found accommodations for some 160 million people in 65 cities last year.

Its Mexico bookings are also tiny when viewed against this country’s visitor numbers: just 1% used the portal to book their stay.

The most popular Mexican destinations on the website are Mexico City, where it lists 5,800 properties, the Riviera Maya, Cancun and Puerto Vallarta.

The typical Airbnb tourist is 35 years old and the average length of stay is four days. Of those who came to Mexico last year, 45% were from another Latin American country, 40% from the United States and 12% from Europe.

Anderson wrote that Mexican hosts are estimated to have rented their properties for 25 nights of the year by using the service, earning some 4,000 pesos a month.

Mexican travelers themselves

use the site: 1.135 million booked accommodation on it last year.

In total Airbnb has about 150 million users, according to Wikipedia.

Meanwhile, one very unique Mexican property listed on the portal garnered some international attention earlier this month.

The Argentinean digital news service Infobae reported that the listing for 26-square-meter Casa Tiny, the smallest property on Airbnb, received almost 2 million visits last month.

Located in the Oaxaca beach destination Puerto Escondido, Casa Tiny rents for up to US $120 per night.

Built with simplicity in mind, it offers one bedroom, a bathroom and kitchen on two floors, “a minimalist space with low impact.”

As of today there was little availability until the third week in August.

Original: MexicoNewsDaily

New Airline Route Boosts Mexico, China Connections

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irline connections between China and Mexico got a boost Tuesday when China Southern Airlines’ first flight on the Guangzhou-Vancouver-Mexico City route landed at Mexico City International Airport (MEX).

This route “will allow a significant increase in tourist traffic from one of Mexico’s principal markets on the Asian continent,” the Mexican Tourism Secretariat (Sectur) said in a bulletin.

In welcoming the Chinese delegation of government officials, business owners, executives and tourists at the terminal, Sectur’s undersecretary of planning and policy, Salvador Sanchez, said that one of the

main challenges to keeping the tourism industry growing is finding ways to make each destination more attractive and therefore more competitive.

The president of China Southern Airlines, Wang Changshun, hailed the “successful” landing of the airliner on the first air route to Mexico by the civil aviation industry of continental China.

China Southern Airlines is one of the largest, most important companies in Asia with 700 airliners, Sectur said.

China itself is an important source of tourists and in 2016 Mexico welcomed some 74,300 visitors, an increase of 33.5 percent over 2015 that made it

Mexico’s second most important Asian market.

Sectur expects that in 2017 Mexico will receive approximately 102,000 Chinese visitors.

Total trade between Guangzhou and Mexico is estimated to have shot up to some $10.5 billion in 2016, including more than $8 billion in exports of products like telephones, machinery and electrical devices.

China Southern Airlines will operate the new route with Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners, between Guangzhou and Mexico City via Vancouver, with three flights a week.

Original: LAHT.com

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April 20 - 26, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Chris Kenny’s Birthday Bay at Incanto

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Photos by Kay Nash

crowd of friends and well wishers came out to celebrate local musician Chris Kenny’s birthday and enjoy her solo show at Incanto on April 15th. You can catch Chris on April 22 from 8-10pm for Happy Hour at Incanto in Puerto Vallarta’s charming Old Town neighbourhood.

Marcia Blondin

Chris Kenny

Catherine Beeghly and Emily Murray

Patti Grace, Yolanda Alatorre and Debbi Brolin Egan

Sandi Beddis, Candace Shaw and Cassandra Shaw

Julie Guerrero and Juan Alvarado

Sean Moore Celebrates His 20th

Photos by Kay Nash

S

ean Moore, owner of the popular restaurant, bar, meeting spot, live music venue and more, Nacho Daddy’s on Basilio Badillo in Vallarta’s Old Town celebrated his 20th Anniversary of living in Mexico with friends and fans.

Live music, lots of dancing and plenty of food and drink made this party one to remember.

To your next 20 years felicidades!

Sean Moore and Kay Nash

Tammy Carruthers Prust and Friends

Alegre Tours Calendar:

Alegre Tours

Sept 29-Oct 09-2017 Argentina/ Buenos Aires/IguazuFall/Mendoza Wine Country November 04-11-2017 Cuba Havana and Varadero Beach November 28-December 05-2017 Mexico City/Cernavaca/Valle de Bravo/Xochimilco/Taxco December 15-2017 Mascota/Talpa 1 Day Tour January 13-19-2018 Guanajuato/San Miguel/Leon February 12-15-2018 Tonala Original Special “Shop Till You Drop” Tour Visit Tonala Marketplace and Furniture Expo March 17-24-2018 Merida/Chichen-Itza/Becal/Uxmal

Nacho Daddy

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

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April 20 - 26, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Mercado Los Mangos Benefits Local Farmers

by Paco Ojeda

W

hen Mercado Los Mangos announced a one-month extension of its season, until the end of June, both vendors and the public at large responded enthusiastically. In particular, Mercado Los Mangos is attracting local farmers in search of shaded places to present and sell their products.

“We’ve been very happy since the first Saturday,” commented José Rivera Andrade. He grows chemical-free Thai bananas, along with Jackfruit and soursop in the Puerto Vallarta outskirts. “The trees at Los Mangos provide natural shade, slightly lowering the temperature and protecting or produce. We trust that the Summer months will continue to be prosperous here.”

Mercado Los Mangos regulars have the opportunity to discover produce that is not that common in the region, such as drumstick tree leaves, known locally as moringa. Raquel Castillón and Alvaro Rentería have been creating natural products derived from this Indian tree (Moringa oleifera) whose benefits include reduction of tired-

ness and fatigue; healthy skin-loving vitamins, including Vitamin A and E; immune-boosting powers; muscle growth and stress reduction.

“People have been very welcoming to us,” commented Raquel. “We appreciate the community’s willingness to try new products.”

Another popular vendor is Talit María José Leon, who harvests organic honey twice a year high in the mountains south of Puerto

Vallarta. “Bees love wildflowers and our extraction is completely free of pesticides,” she explains. “People love our products and the vibe at Los Mangos is greatly enhanced by the garden, the shade and the live music. I’d totally recommend it to other vendors.”

Mercados Los Mangos is open every Saturday from 9:30 am to 2:00 pm through the last Saturday in June. 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, or email mercadolosmangos(at)gmail.com.

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

Meet Erik Sasha and Doctor AntoniaofofChiropractic Hecho Meet Fulfer, in Mexico Pasteleria Bakery

by Mary Stehley

the Mega across from the Flamingos cake. One summer when

By Mary Stehley Golf Course in Bucerias. ou wouldn’t normally expect to Antonio was cooking breakTo schedule an appointment in PV find a chiropractor at a farmer’s fast, he made the flourless asha and Antonio call (044) 322-182-5045 or email bahiamarket but Erik Fulfer, DC has delight for some guests.

Lozada are the been providing his services as a chirochiro@gmail.com and in Bucerias (044) They asked to speak to the owners of Hecho in 322-180-7393 or email megachiropractor at the Olas Altas Farmers Market baker and told him that it Mexico Pasteleria Bakery. for six seasons. practic@gmail.com Website: was the second best cake Antonio learned to bake Dr. Fulfer followed in his grandfather’s www.bahiachiropractic.com they had ever tasted. in a four-diamond bed and footsteps who served in WWII and then The Olas Altas Farmers Market offers “Which was the best?” breakfast in upstate New went on to chiropractic school in the 90 booths of “Handmade and HomeAntonio asked. “We bought York and Sasha was in 1950s.

Erik was honorably discharged grown” goodies as well as prepared one at a farmer’s market charge of finding interesfrom the U.S. Army in 1994 after serving foods such as tamales, tacos, pizza, meat pies and homebaked Vallarta on Tuesdays, Bucein Puerto Vallarta while on ting recipes. The bakery four years in the 82nd Airborne Division as an Associate DC, Clinic Director and made ice cream, paella, pizza, Italian goods, as well as musical rias on Wednesdays, and vacation last year.” was founded in 2011 when and the 508th Airborne Battalion. owner.

In 2010 he followed his dream sausage and pasta and baked goods, instruments, blown glass, Marina Vallarta on ThurNeedless to say, they Sasha and Antonio decided earned his undergraduate degree to practice a foreign sday country and Special he, all just steps away tapestries, from the famous baskets, soaps, nights. orders were talking about inAntoto Erik move to Puerto Vallarta. withThey an emphasis on the sciences in along with his wife Michelle and their Los Muertos Beach.

You can find jewelry, clothes, nutalso butters, may be placed at 322 189 nio’s flourless chocolastarted selling preparation for chiropractic school.

He daughter Sofia, moved to Puerto Vallarta. musical instruments, soaps, jewelry, sprouts, cheeses and 7445 or tu_postre@yahoo. te-orange cake. their baked goods at small graduated Life quickly University School He now operates Puerto meat pies, clothes, sprouts, fermented foods.nut butters com. Vallarta’s Delivery anywhere Their desserts include markets. from They ofgained Chiropractic in Marietta, Georgia, only mobile chiropractic service.

On and fermented foods.

We’re open from It is open from 9:30 in the Bay of Banderas is orange buns, cakes, a reputation for the largest chiropractic institution in the Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:30 to 9:30 to 2:00 pm every Saturday from to 2:00 in the Lazaro available. The Olas Altas assorted cookies, quick quality American style country at theAs time, in March 6:00 pudding he brings 17 years of experience the first in November to the Cárdenas Park in Vallarta’s Farmers’ Market offers 90 Saturday breads, bread and desserts. they deve- of 2000.

Erik then successfully passed all four into the comfort of your home, office, last Saturday in April.

We’re located in Emiliano Zapata neighbooths of “Handmade and gluten free white and multi loped their product line parts of the National Board of Chiroresort or spa.

He also serves the north the Lazaro Cárdenas Park in Vallarta’s borhood every Saturday Homegrown” goodies as grain breads. they introduced gluten free of the bay Wednes- foods Emiliano For only practic as wellincluas the Physio fromneighborhood. the first Saturday well as prepared such Zapata Hecho side in Mexico canon Mondays, cakes Exams and breads, 14 pesos an hour, you can park the Therapy Exam.

He then spent the next days and Fridays from 9 to 1 and 2 to 5 in November to thein last as tamales, tacos, homealso be found at the La Cruz ding their best seller, the garage directly beneath the park. nine years in Atlanta gaining experience from his office conveniently located inside Saturday in April. made ice cream, paella, market on Sundays, Nuevo flourless chocolate-orange

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

@

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

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

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

We make gluten free and sugar free items too!

Pasteleria y Reposteria/Bakery

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

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

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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

Summer is Approaching

I

have had a few emails the past week or so from folks here yearround, asking if they have to wait until next fall for our clinics. For some reason, many people think that once the Easter holidays are over, things close up tight here in the area and that life comes to standstill. For anyone that is here for the summer months, one understands this is most definitely not the case.

True, the pace eases up a bit but last summer, for example, we ran our clinics every month (except September) and they were full as were our speakers programs. This is life, not just a few months of vacation for many. We run our errands,

clean the house, do the laundry, and pay the bills albeit a tad slower and earlier in the day as the humidity rises. Emergency services run 24/7 just like the rest of the year.

Doctors see patients in consult just like the rest of the year. People get sick just like the rest of the year.

It’s also that time of year to purchase boxes of zip-lock baggies to store everything from nail polish to envelopes in or you will end up with a gunky mess of many things.

Later in the summer, you can pretty much watch the mold grow on your walls overnight. I tend to not only stock up on the zip-lock bags but also bleach and a couple of good scrub brushes. Throw in extra deodorant and Maizena (Mexican version of cornstarch) which is great for “chafing”.

We all have our own special

April 20 - 26, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

“tips” for summer living in the area – just ask around.

One thing is for sure, bitching about the heat and humidity certainly doesn’t help and it is not a surprise when it arrives so just plan accordingly. Look at the positives! Gorgeous light shows out over the bay. Soft and smooth skin.

More time for reading. More time for movies, movies, movies! (If you would like to be on our “Wednesday movie list” just send me an email!).

Glorious siestas in front of a fan as it is pouring rain outside. More time for friends. It’s a very long list and each person has their own personal favorites.

The summer months are also a good time to take care of a lot of those yearly studies such as a mammogram, Pap smear, colonoscopy. We offer specials year round on these and many other diagnostic studies.

Staying hydrated seems to be the biggest challenge. Dehydration can make the body do some really weird things – from a headache to a seizure so drink tons of water! If you are not peeing often enough, then you need to drink more water.

As we bid “hasta luego” to those heading north for the summer months we look forward to seeing you again in the fall. If you are here all summer then let’s get on with life as we know it, perhaps a tad slower, and enjoy it all.

Animo! Have a sensational week!

Comings and Goings Marcia Blondin

marciavallarta@gmail.com Comings…

The Vallarta Garden Club’s last membership/meet and greet afternoon soiree takes place at Incanto Vallarta from 5 to 7 pm this coming Thursday, April 20th.

This is an open invitation to all of you – tourists, new expats and residents of our city to come and meet the gardeners of Vallarta.

Money is always needed to buy plants, so bring your cash and yes, credit cards are also welcome. Memberships are inexpensive and every little bit counts as a new planting. Think of it like this: ten new members equals one new palm tree. Be a part of the beautification of our city. Be a palm tree!

Same day, Thursday…stick around, have dinner on the terrace after the Garden Club meeting is over and take advantage of the two-for-one tickets (for Garden Club members, only – just another good reason…) to see Jackie Bristow in the Theatre at Incanto. Jackie was born in New Zealand and has just finished a tour with Bonnie Raitt in her home country prior to flying here to be with us. I am looking forward to her debut performance and meeting her afterwards. She is performing Friday and Saturday nights as well – all concerts start at 8 pm sharp.

On Friday, April 21st, upstairs in

the Piano Bar at Incanto, Alberto Cuevas sings some of Mexico’s finest popular songs and a few traditional favourites as well.

Accompanied by Maestro Salvatore on piano, this engaging entertainer is one of Vallarta’s best.

Saturday night, Chris Kenny has the floor in the Piano Bar. Last weekend was her birthday; lots of friends showed up to enjoy her wide range of music and song and to celebrate her 30th birthday (again!). Tracy Parks, the owner of Incanto, has added a few upholstered sofas to his now way-more-comfortable bar. …and Goings Latcho and Andrea, the Blonde Gypsies, have their last show of the season on Tuesday, April 25th.

Then they are off to Europe to visit family. For flamenco music at its finest go and see them in the theatre, 8 pm, at Incanto Vallarta.

VENECIA 290 COL. DIAZ ORDAZ Fluent English Spoken

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

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

Porcelain veneers, crowns and bridges.

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

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Two Expats in Mexico www.qroo.us

Tips to Avoid Being Scammed at a Gas Station While in Mexico

T

1. Money Swap This is the most common one. In fact, a few of my friends have fallen victim to this one.

How it works The money swap occurs when you hand the attendant your money and they swap a bill — usually a $50 for a $500 — and then tell you that you didn’t give them enough money.

The scam works best when there is some form of distraction used. Be wary of attendants who are excessively chatty or if there is a second attendant who comes over to talk to you while the first one is working.

The goal is to make you unsure if you gave them the correct amount or not.

Avoiding it Pay attention! Stop chatting with the passengers in the car and get out so you can observe what the atten-

Paradise

3. Not Resetting the Pump How it works The attendant does not reset the pump to zero before putting fuel in your vehicle.

Avoiding it Pay attention and make sure that the pump is at zero. The attendant will often say “ceros” (zeros) before pumping to confirm this was done.

and Parenting Leza Warkentin

Paul Kurtzweil

ourists that we meet often have a story about how they were scammed, shortchanged or cheated while getting gas in Mexico.

Their unfamiliarity with how things work here – coupled with the fact that their cars have rental tags on them – make them a target for unscrupulous gas station attendants looking to make a quick buck at their expense.

In today’s post, I’m going to tell you about some of the more common scams and how to avoid them.

April 20 - 26, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

dant is doing. It’s also a good idea to count out the bills one at a time as you place them in the attendant’s hand.

If they try to swap a bill and you’re absolutely sure they’re trying to scam you, call them on it. Tell them to return your other bill or you’ll call the police. You may even want to take out your cellphone and start recording the encounter.

This is usually all it takes to rectify the problem. The attendant usually responds with a sheepish grin and then gives you the correct change owed.

2. Shortchanged This is common with tourists because they’re not familiar with the currency here.

How it works This one is pretty self-explanatory.

The attendant gives you insufficient change for the amount of money that you provided.

Avoiding it Pay attention!

If you speak some Spanish (at least you know your numbers), I useful tip is to tell them exactly how much you want back when you give them the money. It throws them off and they usually just hand you the amount you asked for.

4. Credit Card Fraud How it works Your card is skimmed and later cloned. Even if your card has a security chip, that doesn’t stop people from making online purchases.

Avoiding it The easiest way is to avoid using a credit card at a gas station. I always stick to cash.

If you do insist on using a card, watch the attendant carefully to ensure that he or she is not capturing the information with a secondary device.

5. Incorrect Liters How it works The software has been altered and the pump is dispensing fewer liters than it says on the display.

Avoiding it Unfortunately, you’re not going to be able to avoid this one.

In fact, you probably won’t even know you’ve been scammed unless the discrepancy is huge. For example, you pump $500 pesos into your Chevy March and it barely fills up half.

If you feel that you’ve been a victim of this, ask for a receipt and report the incident to Profeco.

There’s not much more you can do unfortunately.

Let’s Wrap This Up I get gas a couple of times a week and I’ve never been the victim of a fraud — at least that I’m aware of.

The secret to my successful streak is that I diligently follow my own advice every time.

mommyinmexico.wordpress.com

Listening and Learning

M

y son was asked to be on a debate team for a school project. I wasn’t sure what the selection criteria was, but I’m not surprised that he was asked. I’d like to say that he was chosen because he is intelligent and capable of great eloquence, which of course is true. But mostly I think it’s because he enjoys arguing a point until it’s lying there, quivering and asking for water, and his teacher thought she might try to use this quality for good.

We raised our children to be vegetarian, so he chose to investigate and debate the reasons for a meat-free diet.

I thought it was great, because we had always emphasized the compassionate side of vegetarianism, and now he was finding out many other reasons for a plantbased diet.

Unbeknownst to me, he grew very interested in the subject beyond the debate and did a lot more digging about the effects of dairy farming on cows and the inhumane conditions on some of the factory egg farms.

We were eating dinner one night when he announced to us that he would like to try being a vegan, because cruelty to animals seemed to include more than just killing and eating them.

He gave a fairly explicit description of the conditions on some of the more mass produced egg farms, which didn’t speak very highly of chickens and their ability to get along in close quarters.

I glanced at his little sister, who was white-faced and staring doubtfully at her omelet, so I cleared my throat and told him that we would be happy to help him limit his intake of any animal products, if we could start slowly and if he would be willing to be involved.

He agreed, and asked me if I would like to join him.

He told me that he understood what I been telling him all these years about compassion for animals and how we as humans had a long way to go. I realized then that a) he

really meant to go through with this and b) I was about to go vegan.

Here’s the deal. Our kids say a lot of things. Like, so many many things.

Sometimes all of the things from all of the kids are being said at the same time. As parents we filter out a lot, because we have to. No human brain can contain those things and still be free of deep neurosis.

They sometimes say things that we have to tell them are not ok, or inappropriate, or downright dangerous. If we don’t, someone else will, like a low-filter classmate who won’t be so worried about their hurt feelings.

But very often our kids say things that require us to listen and to respond as though they make sense and are worth hearing.

The deal is, they need to know that they have ideas worthy of consideration and respect.

When this respect and discussion starts at home with us parents, they can gather confidence to share these thoughts and ideas with others around them.

Not only that, when we model respect for their opinions and then answer with our own, they learn about the responsibility involved in engaging with others thoughtfully.

Much of their life experience is going to require careful listening, partially in order to learn more, and mostly to develop caring relationships with others.

Whew. It’s a big job, this parenting thing. Also this vegan thing. I cried at the Costco cheese sample table today.

But that’s ok. If I am going to raise conscious kids, I’ll put aside the brie for now. And to be honest, I’ve already googled “vegan pie recipes”. I think we’ll be ok for awhile.

entertainment

April 20 - 26, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Last South Side Shuffle of the season

By Steven Miller

S

even years ago a group of Puerto Vallarta merchants created something called the South Side Shuffle. The merchants were the owners of some of our finest shops and galleries, all located on a two-block stretch of Basilio Badillo on the south side of town.

The South Side Shuffle quickly became a hit with locals and visitors alike. By popular demand it was scheduled twice a month, on alternating Fridays. To this day it is generally considered to be the most fun shopping extravaganza on the Mexican Riviera. All of the seventeen participating businesses will be offering complimentary cocktails. As well as a few fun surprises, creating the kind of festive atmosphere everyone can enjoy. Although this two-block stretch (200’s and 300’s) of Basilio Badillo (and the half block of Constitucion Street adjoining it) has some of the finest shopping in Mexico, the new

and improved South Side Shuffle has several great additions, especially in the area of entertainment.

Joining the Shuffle this year are two of Vallarta’s premiere entertainment venues.

Nacho Daddy’s & The Boutique Theatre: a blues nightclub, Tex-Mex Restaurant and dinner theatre all under one roof. Then, up the street is Act II Stages, presenting an entire panoply of international performers of every stripe.

In addition to some of the best shopping and entertainment in town, the Shuffle can also boast four fine restaurants: Di Vino Dante, with its incredible wine list; Puerto Nuevo, with its wonderful seafood; Basilio Beber y Comer, with its great blend of Italian and Mediterranean cuisine; and the aforementioned Nacho Daddy’s with its terrific Tex-Mex kitchen.

One of the greatest things about the Shuffle is its compactness. All seventeen businesses are located on a

two-block stretch of Basilio Badillo, and a block of Constitution Street.

Everything is close, so walking to every business is not a problem. But time is. There is so much to see, four hours is really not enough.

So, for folks with specific interests, we have tried to squeeze all seventeen businesses into a few categories to help you decide where to focus your attention: GALLERIES: Ambos Galeria, Art Vallarta II, Galleria Dante and Kathleen Carrillo Galleries.

JEWELRY STORES: Cassandra Shaw Jewelry, Cerroblanco Gallery, Shazel Jewelry.

FOLK ART AND COLLECTIBLES: Banderas Bay Trading Company, Lucy’s Cucu Cabaña, Peyote People.

ENTERTAINMENT: Act II Stages, Boutique Theatre, Nacho Daddy’s.

DINING: Basilio Beber y Comer, Di Vino Dante, Nacho Daddy´s, Roberto’s Puerto Nuevo.

FASHION: Colecion La Bohemia, Tonalli Tienda.

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

THURSDAY EVENING MARINA MARKET

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

LOS CHATOS

TACO TANGO STICKY FINGERS

The new thrift store has just opened and is working hard to get organized and stocked full of great, ‘new to me’ items. Run by volunteers, everything has been donated and all monies go directly to the charity.

They have new and gently used furniture, clothing, jewelry, books, artwork, toys and all sorts of other household items including the odd

4 SAPORI

BEERBOX PRIME

PORTO BELLO PEPE’S

LAS ALCATRACES

dishwasher and small appliance!

Located right beside Victor's Place, the hours are currently shifting but you should be able to find the doors open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 6pm and during the very popular Thursday Night Market.

What is needed are more volunteers, more stuff to sell and with so many mouths to feed daily please consider dropping off any nonperishable food. If you are heading back to your ‘other’ home consider clearing out your cupboards and closets for items that can be sold or reused by the children at Corazon de Niña.

Volunteer Nancy Nevison often

brings her little pup to work with her and says, “Missy accompanies me most days and we've gotten a lot of donations as people stop to pet her.

Many of the men early morning dog walkers 'look' for her and that gives her Mama a change to mention we need more men's shirts!”

VALLARTA ADVENTURES

CALLE MASTIL

PASEO DE MARINA

C

asa Hogar Corazon de Niña has recently opened a thrift store in the Marina Vallarta area. The home currently provides permanent housing and education for thirty-six kids ranging from babies to 23 years old, all in a loving 'family' environment.

LA FEDERAL

Corazon de Niña opens new store in Marina Vallarta

4 KATRINAS

STARBUCKS

CALLE POPA

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

They even have a large 'piggy bank’ for all your heavy, unused pesos... feeding her with Canadian or American dollars helps to provide a safe home to rescued children from high risk situations including abuse, abandonment and human trafficking.

CALLE TIMON FAJITA BANANA OXXO COFFEE CUP

Drop in or visit www.fundacioncorazon.mx for more info.

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

MED&SPA

TINTOQUE

EL COLEGUITA

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April 20 - 26, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

From Here

My Fitness Journey Katy Saunders

Marcia Blondin

tksaund@gmail.com

marciavallarta@gmail.com

C

F

riendships are difficult to come by when the population of the city where you live turns over every week.

There’s a plethora of people from all countries, walks of life to choose from; they are easy to meet and get to know as everyone is here for the same reason: v-a-c-a-t-i-o-n.

And then, they’re gone.

One time, a few years ago, I met a woman I kept seeing at all the theatres in town. I finally introduced myself and from that moment on a friendship began and has grown to include her family and their families.

Last week, Wanda Grift, her

sister Wendy and I sat on the patio at Incanto, under the shade of ancient trees on the Rio Cuale with such a tiny bit of water in it.

There were birds, cats and iguanas; Salvatore on piano – he can play anything; incredible food (the chef’s story will be an entire article) and more than two hours of chat.

As it goes with friends, the time flew, and then, they were gone.

We will keep in touch and they will come back in the fall.

Safe journeys, Wanda and Wendy, on all your summer adventures.

And that, my lovely friends, is it, From Here.

ongratulations! You made it through the week! I’m guessing you may have had family or friends visiting and if it wasn’t enough distraction, maybe it was the crowds of people and parties going on.

If you didn’t commit to fitness this week, don’t feel too bad.

1. You’re not alone.

2. You can get back on track!

The stadium here in town is a great place to start, there were several events taking place including soccer, volleyball, track and field and there was still lots of place to run. Just being there made you feel like getting up and moving!

Today I will share with you one of my best fitness tips, but before I do I will tell you about my journey to fitness. As a child I was involved mostly in the arts and although I figure skated and played tennis, it wasn’t until I was 25 and took a course to teach fitness that I really started.

I didn’t have a great diet, I had cravings for everything sweet, even though I had never really eaten them growing up. At that time I was unhappy with how I looked. I was a model in my early 20s, and why couldn’t I have that body back?

I was around 15 lbs. more than I wanted to be, and couldn’t get rid of those extra pounds.

It wasn’t until 2000 when I moved to Venice Beach, CA and I thought I would surf my way into shape.

After hours of renting a board in mini waves and barely standing, I decided to join ‘The Gym’.

I say “The Gym” because I’m referring to Gold’s Gym where Arnold started his fitness journey to fame; pictures of him everywhere and bodybuilders wall-to-wall with the hopes of becoming the next Arnold, inspired me to be more fit.

I didn’t know anything besides running. I committed to running each day, the first few times I only ran for 10 minutes, I was exhausted, but I persisted and within a month could run for 30 minutes.

I wanted sports with more interaction, so I took karate and spinning. I must have done 1000 spinning classes within the next

few years, it was the best workout I ever did.

I became a certified spinning instructor, and taught at Gold’s Gym, World Gym, Body Fit and a few smaller studios and before I certified as a trainer, I managed a big box gym. In 2013, I became a fitness competitor and came back to Puerto Vallarta to spend the winter seasons.

Most importantly, my journey has taught me not only about what it means to be fit, but to embrace every aspect living in a more healthy, happy and confident way.

The tip I have to share with you will hopefully motivate you to take the necessary steps to be more active, to get movement back into your life and to become the person that you have in your imagination who is resilient, confident and sexy.

Wear workout clothing as often as possible, and wear them to

work, grocery shopping and sleep in them if you have to! Make sure that they’re the moisture wicking kind, such as clothing made from 100% bamboo or flax, anything natural is best. Alternately, try a lycra polyester mix, with more lycra.

Polyester is synthetic and can trap the heat inside tight clothing. Have at least two pairs of running shoes that fit your toes to have enough wiggle room.

I know it may sound silly, but you will notice other people being active which triggers your subconscious mind. It’s powerful and it works!

Sharing my story and helping others is what I do, so please, send me your questions or comments, email me at: tksaund@gmail.com, I love answering your questions and getting your feedback.

Have a great week and most of all remember..Stay healthy! Stay happy! Stay fit!

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Creative hands of Mexico Leigh Thelmadatter

osomadre@hotmail.com

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

Sliding a rebozo through a wedding ring

T

he rebozo is one of, if not the most, visible element of traditional Mexican women’s dress. Despite the fact that it has almost disappeared in daily use, Mexican women own at least one, and these are almost always pulled out to celebrate Independence Day, if nothing else.

The rebozo is made in various localities in the center and south of the country, but perhaps the finest rebozos are made in the northeast.

Santa María del Río is a small town close to city of San Luis Potosí in the state of the same name.

Despite colonial era buildings reminiscent of towns and cities further south, the natural geography is definitely “norte” with mezquite, cactus and a dry riverbed. The town was established in 1589 by the Franciscans as the Spanish sought to push their control north, out of Mesoamerica and into areas where hunter-gatherer tribes still dominated. To do this, towns like Santa Maria were established and often populated with “more civilized” indigenous people from former Aztec Empire lands. In this case, the migrating people were Otomis. The town was established with a parish, a Franciscan monastery and two neighborhoods, one for the Otomis and one for the native Guachichils.

The town is still unofficially divided into “upper” and “lower” based on this division, but the population is now mestizo.

Perhaps the most lasting cultural element from the past is the introduction of weaving rebozos on backstrap looms using ikat dyeing techniques. These are still made much the same way as those made in the center of Mexico but with one important difference, the use of silk (and today, imitation silk).

This development came later in when haciendas began to experi-

ment with the raising of silkworms.

The material makes for a much finer and delicate piece than those made of cotton. Silk weaving requires a more precise and delicate touch, so these rebozos became a favorite of wealthy women of the city of San Luis Potosi.

Today, silk rebozos are still made and can still be bought, with prices starting at about $7,500 pesos (roughly $350 USD). It is said that the finest of Santa María’s silk rebozos can slip through a wedding ring, and was used as a way to test that the garment was of 100% silk.

There are essentially two types of rebozos made and sold here. Single color ones (also called “chalinas”) have no pattern and come in a wide array of traditional and modern colors, including a shocking pink. The other consists of rebozos with patterns, still made by dying the threads before weaving.

These patterns have changed very little since they were introduced to Santa Maria. There are seven basic designs that can still be found.

All had names but today all are numbered with a few retaining their names. Number 1 is the bolita, the most famous of the Santa María rebozos as it is seen and referenced in a number of songs and movies. It has two colors, generally small black lines/dots on a white

background. Number 2 is called “caramelo” (candy) and is noted for having seven distinct colors.

Number 3 refers to those with S-shaped fretwork. Number 4 is also called ‘pinto abierto’ (also a black and white design). Number 5 refers to a style with a sword or arrow pattern; number 6 refers to a design with birds and number 7 is one with wide fretwork. One that seems to missed being numbered is “barbilla,” but this term refers more to a brown coloring that used to be obtained using local plants.

The ikat designs here are comparable to the rebozo work still done in Tenancingo, State of Mexico, but there are some differences. Tenancingo’s designs are more varied and are still evolving, but continue to be made of cotton.

The knotting of the fringes on those from Santa María is finer.

Silk is no longer produced in San Luis Potosi. Weavers today

April 20 - 26, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

thread count of 3,000, with the silk ones coming in at 3,800.

The fringes are tied of using complicated knotting techniques, similar to macramé, but much finer.

These numerous knots create patterns that are complicated and creative. Traditional ones have names such as duck tail, pine arch and even “make me if you can.” But talented fringe weavers (exclusively women) can make just about any kind of personalized image.

These fringes when finished vary from 7 to over 30 cm long.

It should be noted that the most traditional and best of Santa María’s rebozos are still made on backstrap looms, but cheaper versions are made on pedal looms and even some with more modern technology.

But the local weavers’ association demonstrates that the results of these are inferior to those of the backstrap loom, mostly because the ikat method requires precise placement of the threads. A single rebozo can take between one and two months but generally not longer as a rebozo left on the loom too long can warp.

Like other notable handcraft towns in Mexico, Santa Maria attracts tourism with visitors coming to buy rebozos here. While it receives visitors from all over the world, the biggest time for the town is the traditional Easter week vacation period (Semana Santa).

The negative to this is that many stores have opened in the town offering rebozos, which are not authentic and not even made in Santa Maria. In some cases it is not difficult to spot the fakes, ridiculously cheap prices being a big clue, but in others it is not as clear-cut.

For those who are not expert

Today, silk rebozos are still made and can still be bought, with prices starting at about $7,500 pesos (roughly $350 USD). It is said that the finest of Santa María’s silk rebozos can slip through a wedding ring, and was used as a way to test that the garment was of 100% silk. use silk imported from China as is affords the best quality for the price. The main innovation to Santa María’s work has been the introduction of rayon thread, an artificial silk to make a version that is more affordable. Dyes used to be natural, using local resources, but today this is no longer possible.

Many of the plants are extinct or endangered, and rayon cannot take natural dyes.

The rebozos typically made today are a bit shorter than those of the past, again because of affordability. Most are about two meters long and about 60cm wide, although some can be as long as three meters with widths of up to a meter. Rayon rebozos have a

but still want to buy an authentically made piece (rayon or real silk), there are two reliable places to go: the Rebozo School (Escuela de Rebozo) off the main plaza and the Taller Escuela de Rebocería (often called the “Cooperativa”) on Ocampo Street, one block from the main plaza. The first is better known. Established in 1953 by state and federal agencies, its purpose is to preserve the craft, promote it and assist both students and established artisans with commercialization. It has a store, but there isn’t a hugely wide selection. Most rebozos are sold through government agencies such as FONART. The store also carries other handcrafts from the state, most notably inlay pine and cedar boxes in which many keep the rebozos.

The Cooperative dates from the 1980s and has the same mission as the Escuela. In fact, it owes its existence to a split among Santa María artisans at that time. It also sells rebozos, located at a counter inside the building just off the courtyard. Both places offer visitors the opportunity to see what is going on at that moment.

The Escuela has more fixed exhibits, but if your Spanish is good, the cooperative can give an explanation of the processes.

To shop for a rebozo, it is recommended to check both shops to see what is available. Both take special orders as well. The best time to visit is just before the Easter vacation as they stock up for this vacation period.

Another possibility is the annual Rebozo Fair during the first two weeks of August. While the craft receives support from government agencies, press, intellectuals and more, its survival is not assured.

Weaving the garment is a time-consuming process and while weavers can spend 10-hour days for weeks on a rebozo, a single garment may earn the artisan only $1,000 pesos.

Since Santa Maria is near a major city with industry nearby, there are other options for work.

Frankies has gone crazy!

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mexico

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Mexico- A Translation of Life and Sound

signals the delights of his cart to children in the neighbourhood.

A lady walks the streets with a

sellers display the cracked open pearls of harvest from only a few hundred feet off shore, their plated half shells on view, accented only with a slice of lime and a single word, ostiones.

Sounds become familiar, like friends you recognize. .

A man walks the street carrying a large rattan basket on his head calling “Bolillooooos y Paaaaaan,”the bread, rolls and cookies, fresh from one of the local bakeries. Another man says the single word, “cocadas”, for a pyramid shaped dessert of shredded fresh coconut and honey.

His wooden cart is piled high like a pyramid, with the golden honeyed dessert.

A man walks the streets, blowing a panpipe. He carries a square iron frame that has a hand grinder attached to it. The sound of the flute signals his trade of sharpening knives, scissors and anything that can be honed.

The everyday sounds of living surround one, like the scratching sounds of brooms on sidewalks, or the chink, chink, chink of a chisel on concrete. The sounds of construction, of jackhammers and screeching pulleys, of steel girders rising

I see it as a living, breathing place, where life is lived on the street; a place where sounds announce the day. circular tray on her head, carrying plastic containers filled with custard.

The word “flan, el flan” flows from her lips. Tamale ladies sit on street corners, with boiling pots of water for corn, saying “tamales” to all who pass by. Five-gallon plastic pails filled with their wares sit beside them covered with tea towels. Oyster

Kay Nash

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hen most people think of Puerto Vallarta they think of it as a tourist-oriented paradise; beaches, bikinis, sunshine and tequila. And anything goes. I see it as a living, breathing place, where life is lived on the street; a place where sounds announce the day.

From the persistent parrots call of wraaak, wraaak wraak at dawn, pleading for breakfast, to the notes of da da da dat da da, the jingle that precedes the loudspeaker call of GAAAS, EL GAAAS from the propane truck, to the single word of AGUA, as the water truck cruises the neighbourhood with its ten gallon plastic jugs of water. The melodic repetition of notes and tones permeate the air.

Vendors’ vocalizations announce a single fruit, nut or vegetable. The peanut man says “cacahuates” all day long and sits on the street corner surrounded by a heap of peanuts and a large tin can that he uses for his weight and measure. Plastic bags of peanuts are ready for sale at his side.

On the malecon a man stands beside a terracotta-coloured gourd with a spout fabricated from a threeinch piece of plastic pipe.

A multi-coloured mesh bag contains plastic cups and clear plastic bags tied to the side are filled with diced fresh apples and pieces of pecans. He calls “Tuba, la Tuba” to passersby, announcing the tasty drink made from the coco palm.

Pick- up trucks filled with watermelons, pineapples, corn and strawberries offer their wares. The fruit its own advertisement. The ice cream man rings a bell on his bicycle as he rides his refrigerated cart filled with his frozen treats. The ringing sound

Kay Nash

By Arlene Pervin

April 20 - 26, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

into position contrast with the clatter of tearing down, are the sounds of change and renewal.

Other sounds echo greetings for the day, like the tweeting of birds in the morning as they roost in nearby trees and the sounds of people at their work.

Ladies chop onions and tomatoes and cilantro at taco stands, the chop, chop, chopping sound ricochets off the wooden board, as they prepare bags and bags of pico de gallo.

Other women peel cucumbers and papayas and slice them lengthwise, then display their merchandise in plastic bags as ready- to -eat healthy snacks. A sprinkle of chili adds a dash of color and a hint of picante for added flavor.

Stands that sell fresh fruit juices, have tall sundae type glasses filled with orange or carrot juice, advertising their wares. Green mesh bags of oranges, carrots and limes are stacked beside the street stand.

The large stainless steel juice press is fastened to the table as the man squeezes orange after orange to make a glass of freshly squeezed juice. The sound of the lever, the sound of someone’s livelihood.

On another street corner, there is an old coca-cola cooler filled with ice

and fresh coconuts. There is a worn hardwood plank table set between two trees.

A woman thwacks the top off the coconut with a machete, exposing the soft white center. She punches a hole in the meat with an ice pick, puts a straw in it, and then hands it to her waiting customer.

A man with a wheelbarrow of a tropical fruit displays one in the center. Its bright orange meat, contrasting with the huge black seed, rising from the center, makes a simple matisse-like painting, the wheelbarrow for a canvas. He says the word mamey and offers samples of the fruit. On a different street corner, another wheelbarrow is filled with giant avocados. A sample sliced in half reveals the rich jade green colour of the fruit.and the vendor willingly carves slices for prospective customers.

The delicious taste and richness of each slice sells his jade- green globes. He hardly has to utter the word aguacate, to sell his goods.

Mariachi music sometimes fills the air and the high notes of the trumpet broadcast themselves into the streets carrying the notes of history and culture, of hope and tradition. And on Sunday evenings

At night the geckoes talk and in the mornings I hear the honking bray from the donkey. Then the rooster crows and the church bells clang and the interplay of sounds begin again for another day. The cacophony of sounds in Mexico is part of its fabric and weaves the tapestry of a place.

mexico

April 20 - 26, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Kay Nash

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there is taped music in the municipal band shell in the main square, where couples dance and others are happy to sit, watch and listen.

On many occasions, as one strolls the malecon, one can hear the rattle from the shells that adorn the ankles of the Danzante dancers who perform traditional Aztec dances.

Their headdresses and costumes display an array of color, art and artistic expression.

Even a photograph can’t contain the complexity of designs and colors

in their adornments. The sound of a conch shell blown, as the sun sets, delivers a singular haunting note, and the oompapa notes of a three piece band drifts down the street as the squeals of children’s laughter mixes with crying babies and barking dogs while trucks pick up empty cases of beer bottles, and the church bells clang, all notes of a neighbourhood .

At night the geckoes talk and in the mornings I hear the honking bray from the donkey. Then the rooster crows and the church bells clang and

the interplay of sounds begin again for another day.

The cacophony of sounds in Mexico is part of its fabric and weaves the tapestry of a place.

From aguacates to tamales, I hear the vendors call, announcing a fruit, a dish, a vignette, that is life itself. The melodic repetition of notes and tones that permeate the air make everyday living a translation of sounds. If you listen, you begin to hear and recognize all the variations.

Translation is easy.

ALTRUISM FESTIVAL TICKETS GET YOURS AT THE LA CRUZ INN & AT THE LA CRUZ SUNDAY MARKET AT THE AMIGOS TABLE One of the most popular charity events, the 13th Annual International Festival of Altruism is once again hosted at CasaMagna Marriott Resort Puerto Vallarta and by American Consular Agent, Kelly Trainor.

• Learn about some of the most important local charities and non-profit organizations.

• Enjoy food & drink served by the bay’s best restaurants.

• Be entertained by top dance, musical & cultural groups.

All proceeds donated to Banderas Bay charitable organizations who are in need of a little help, including AMIGOS DE LA CRUZ DE HUANACAXTLE, A.C. Tickets, which include food, drinks and entertainment, cost $400 pesos in advance or $500 pesos at the door.

YOU’RE INVITED DATE: May 14, 2017 WHERE: CasaMagna Marriott in Marina Vallarta WHEN: 6 pm TICKETS: $400 pesos $500 at the door. Event sells out every year. No online sales.

TICKETS CAN BE PURCHASED at: La Cruz Inn - lacruzinn.com La Cruz Sunday Market Amigos table

Contact: Amy Welch - amywelchpdx@comcast.net 503 516 4757 US PH

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

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events

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Events Calendar Have an event you want to promote? Email the details: Where, When, Who and What by Monday 5pm to Editor(at)VallartaTribune.com to be included in that week’s paper.

All events can be found online at www.vallartatribune.com/events NOW ADD YOUR EVENT ONLINE – FREE ONLINE LISTINGS! Oyster Festival (April 23) One of Bucerías’ most iconic events is the yearly Oyster Festival, which celebrates local divers with a popular feast that showcases the sense of community shared by the locals.

They elect a festival queen, search for the largest oyster and offer visitors a delicious selection of dishes.

April 26-29 Cuisine of the Sun International Food and Wine Festival The second season of the Villa La Estancia sponsored International Food Festival, “Cuisine of the Sun” will bring together some of the biggest names in food as well as top chefs from around the world. The starstudded event, curated by Food Network Celebrity Chef and USFOODS Culinary Specialist Penny Davidi. cuisineofthesun.

villagroupresorts.com.

Locals discount available.

April 27 – May 7 11th Annual Puerto Vallarta Folkloric Dance Festival 16 dance groups from around Mexico and South America will present free concerts and demonstrations in traditional folkloric dance.

Opening day parade from Los Arcos on the Malecon to the volleyball courts beside Sheraton Bugambilias.

State Bodyboard Competition (April 28-30) Competition that brings together the local exponents of this type of surf in the main beach of San Pancho, a modality that is a little more fun because of the maneuvers, it becomes a little extreme according to the conditions of the sea.

Children’s Fishing Tournament (April 30) Once again the Riviera

Nayarit CVB celebrates children with a recreational sports event, where they can learn fishing techniques in a family environment at the Marina Riviera Nayarit in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle.

May 14 13th Annual Altruism Festival Casa Magna Marriot in Marina Vallarta. $400 in advance, $500 at the door.

Starts 6pm. Includes food, drink and entertainment.

Proceeds help twenty charities.

Tickets purchased through local charities.

May 15-31 Restaurant Week – local restaurants in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit offer select menus for discounted prices.

A great time to try new establishments! More info at restaurantweekpv.com

April 20 - 26, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Featured Property of the Week

Overlooking Vallarta’s South Shore SOLAMAR 62 2 Bed, 2 Bath, 1,403 sq. Ft. Asking $329,500usd

Food Network Stars at Cuisine of the Sun International Culinary Festival

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his year’s event is set to take place April 26-29, 2017 and will host a variety of events, including elegant dinners, beachside BBQs, poolside beverages, a Chopped Challenge sponsored by SugarFoods, and much, much more.

Cuisine of the Sun | International Food and Wine Festival, will be held at Villa La Estancia Beach Resort & Spa in Riviera Nayarit.

Featuring a line-up of internationally acclaimed chefs, Cuisine of the Sun will showcase the talents, dishes and libations of celebrity chefs from the United States and Latin America.

The four-day festival promises to be a grand affair, with a variety of entertaining activities that are sure to tempt your palate and keep you engaged from beginning to end.

Plan on attending a dinner

alongside famous foodies, absorbing the knowledge of expert chefs and sommeliers during the numerous workshops and demonstrations; you are sure to have a spectacular time.

Local residents and readers of the Vallarta Tribune are invited to attend this multi-day event, and tickets are available with a 20% discount to the regular price.

There are a limited number of tickets available with the local discount, and it’s recommended to purchase your tickets early to avoid disappointment.

Call Villa La Estancia at 322-226-9700 Ext. 5000 to book your ticket, and mention that you are a reader of Vallarta Tribune to have the discount applied.

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his absolutely stunning beachfront corner unit overlooks the golden sands and crystal blue waters of Vallarta’s famed south shore. The open floor plan features a gourmet kitchen with granite counters, custom hardwood cabinets and bar seating. The elegant and tasteful living room and gorgeous indoor dining open to the beautiful covered outdoor terrace overlooking the beach, bay and town! The spacious bedrooms are havens of restful relaxation that take full advantage of the stunning views and include private bathrooms and separate air conditioning zones. Other features of this beautiful beachfront home include: remodeled kitchen and bathrooms, new plumbing, wiring, “mini-split” air conditioning, private laundry room, storage locker and wood beamed ceilings boardwalkrealtypv.com/properties/solamar-62/

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people of vallarta

April 20 - 26, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Gold Leaf Smoke Shop presents the artistic side of cannabis culture

By Rachel Drinkard

W

hat kind of person do you envision when I say “the owner of the local cannabis accessory shop?” Do you picture a soft-spoken, highly educated young mother of two? Do you envision a successful entrepreneur who bootstrapped her own startup by herself to support her family? Do you see a passionate ambassador of the arts and involved community supporter? I might not have a week ago, but that was before I met Samara Alpern.

Alpern’s path to Mexican smoke shop ownership is as unconventional as the shop itself. The self-described hyper overeducated, high-strung Jewish girl and mother of two, opened Gold Leaf Smoke Shop in 2012 to support her family and fill a need she saw in the community.

“At that time there wasn’t even anywhere to buy rolling papers,” she told me over lunch at Mi Cafe.

Today, Gold Leaf is the only dedicated cannabis accessories shop in the Banderas Bay area and boasts the largest selection of vaporizers in all of Mexico.

Like others I’ve met since moving here, Alpern came here to reset her life.

“I just wanted everything to be different,” she said of her life in Albuquerque where she was a recently graduated registered dietician. “I couldn’t tell where the source of pain was and this place was kind of anti-intellectual and I thought maybe I’d like that better.”

“I moved here and I didn’t know anything, but my ignorance was my friend. I went through my hard times and I found a lot of inner strength

Today, Gold Leaf is the only dedicated cannabis accessories shop in the Banderas Bay area and boasts the largest selection of vaporizers in all of Mexico. when I stopped looking for guidance from the people I used to look to...I just decided to close my eyes and trust myself and if it worked out, it worked out and if it didn’t, it didn’t and just keep moving forward. That was one of the healthiest transformations I’ve ever experienced, just giving myself permission to fail and stop listening to other people altogether. I had to reach in deep, stop crying all the time and just...execute.

Stand up and move forward.”

And move forward she did. With ten thousand dollars to her name from selling her car and her belongings in New Mexico, Alpern came to Puerto Vallarta and it wasn’t long after that that she found herself pregnant with her first son, now four, and getting serious about looking for a way to support her family.

“I started small. I was able to learn as I grew on a small scale so I could figure out how importing works and how paying my taxes works and getting my license works, little by little...I’ve just really enjoyed figuring things out and I’ve

been lucky.”

You can tell exactly how much Alpern enjoys her work by the sparkle in her eye when she starts talking about her unique collection of merchandise.

“Our supply of glass is really exciting for me,” she says, stirring her iced tea. “I used to write about food, arts, and music and it’s nice to be in the arts again because I couldn’t really make any money off of art before. That’s a big problem in the creative field, but you can make money off of art with this. It’s called functional glass, these kinds of beautiful glass pieces that are used for smoking.”

Though Alpern isn’t working in a field that one would think directly relates to either of her two degrees, one in art from Tulane and one in nutrition from the University of New Mexico, you can see them in action in her shop. After we finish lunch she offers me a tour of Gold Leaf, located at Lazaro Cardenas #379 in Col. Emiliano Zapata, where she picks up a large glass pipe from

the case and shows me its beautiful jewel toned features with all the reverence of a museum curator.

She appreciates the useful art she shares and it shows in the way she presents her collection.

This is not your average head shop with rasta swag cluttering the walls and the heavy scent of Axe Body Spray mingling with whatever incense was on sale through the distributor. This is a gallery, and you see it in every detail from the meticulous glass display gleaming in the afternoon sunshine to the perfectly arranged pieces around the room. Alpern brings a distinctly dignified air to the business that is both professional and accessible, and she takes pride in being a good neighbor and valued member of the community.

Gold Leaf’s expanding glass collection is currently mostly imported from the US because there’s few Mexican artists working in the medium, but Alpern does work with one local glass artist in Mismaloya and looks forward to

carrying more Mexican artisans, as pieces become available. Outside of the local angle, a higher than usual number of the pieces she carries in her shop have a distinctly feminine quality with delicate shades of pinks and purples and graceful shapes and forms, all arranged carefully in glass cases.

“I’m trying to do my part and carry the coolest stuff,” she says.

“I really want people who come from Seattle or Los Angeles or San Francisco or Victoria to come here and find this store that measures up to what they have up there with really competitive prices and unique merchandise. I want them to go home and tell their friends in New York City about this really cool little shop in Puerto Vallarta that’s not like anything else they’ve ever seen.”

Alpern isn’t all work and no play, though. She makes sure to be home by four every day to spend time with her sons who are clearly her motivation for all that she does.

She’s also involved in the cannabis scene on a national level and stays in touch with others in the industry around the country and even sponsored Mexico’s first cannabis competition, the Príncipe Flor Xochipilli which happened April 14 through 16 in Guerrero. She’s been busy this month with her biggest sale of the year which wraps up on April 20.

“It’s exciting and I’ve been really blessed to come in at this moment.

I’m hoping catch the wave at the right time and be established when legalization comes through but we’ll just have to wait and see. Who knows,” she muses. “It’s just a wild card, and I’m happily going along for the ride!”

riviera nayarit

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April 20 - 26, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Living In La Cruz Cindy Bouchard

cindy@VillaAmordelMar.com

Giving back and doing good for others in La Cruz Introducing Line Bureau

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’ve been intending to write about folks who do good, more good and then top it off with so-muchmore good that I’m filled to the brim with appreciation! My only challenge is that they’re so humble that it’s difficult getting them to answer my questions! In no particular order I’m going to write about some of these wonderful folks over the coming weeks. These people make a huge difference to all of us in La Cruz whether living here, vacationing or just passing thru.

A quick shout out to restaurateurs; one could argue they are making money so they have to do good for others. True indeed; however with a short high season I’m forever amazed how they ‘go with the flow’ making people feel special and helping them to relax; sharing the joys of our region.

Muchisimas gracias a todos!

Today my focus is Line (pronounced Leena) Bureau;

Environmental Chair, Amigos de La Cruz.

Living full-time in La Cruz, Line is originally from Quebec where she co-owned a wholesale and retail linen company. While most of us have a Spanglish way of communicating, the multi-lingual Line flavours her Spanish and English with French.

Line directs the recycling program and the street beautification program and works with the Cetmar students (local vocational technical school for students ages 15-19) and corrals volunteers to help her with recycling.

Line inspires me with her commitment to keeping our town clean. When I asked her why she gives so much of her time and energy to ‘the cause’ she answered, “Working with Amigos de la Cruz gives me the chance to polish our precious pueblo, La Cruz. We do not want to change La Cruz, just polish the Jewel; a precious stone.

I admire everyone in Amigos de la Cruz and am so proud to be part of the team.

Being on the ‘ground’ and talking with the people of La Cruz (nationals and others) I can tell you they love us and appreciate what we are doing.”

Recently Line coordinated a

cleanup plan with the military. She said, “They come just with love and a willingness to help. From the plaza we walked to the beach with the cadets, they were singing.

We started by the ocean and cleaned for one and a half hours focusing on cleaning the arroyo (dry river) separating plastic from trash. As they were taking pictures I asked for one of their T-Shirts; laughing they said you have to earn it! So, I started walking like them through the village with bags full of

trash back to the plaza.”

Special thanks to Linda Ward for supplying garbage bags and to the Delta Group for teaching La Cruz’s new generation to keep our precious town clean.

Before closing I want to thank two prominent board members of Amigos de la Cruz’s who are passing the baton to others.

Communications’ Chair, Shari Decter Hirst’s political history added a passionate, devoted and valuable contribution to the Amigos

board. Taking time to pursue creative interests of her own, Shari is leaving a legacy for others to continue her good works.

Outgoing president, Steve Cross, gave unconditionally over the last many years. Steve, with his own successful construction business and while building his own home, carved out time to help others.

Thank you, Steve; I truly hope you know the difference you made for so many!

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.

riviera nayarit

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April 20 - 26, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

EST W E HE N D T N A Riviera Nayarit AR B S T SPOR U R ANT R ESTA RUZ C A L IN

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

H

ey Everybody!

Easter weekend was a blast! I had a great time with friends, old and new. One of the things I really enjoy living on the Banderas Bay is meeting new people, which is easy here, and on the holidays - even easier! So many more folks are moving and living in Mexico most of the year now. What Fun! OK…here comes Earth Day, April 22nd. Do something kind for our Mother Earth. Reduce, Re-use, Recycle, Re-think! Every little bit makes a difference when adding it all up. Whether you get with a group or on your own, just DO something that helps our environment!

APRIL 22nd “You can Make a Difference at Marina Riviera Nayarit in La Cruz” Here is a great opportunity to help out our oceans and message from Katrina Liana: Marina la Cruz is getting together with the help of our cruising fleet and community. Join us with a morning beach clean, afternoon drag net rally followed by a BBQ Pool Party at the Poolside Deli! Open to everyone who wants to help...ATTENTION: We will need boats and people willing to crew for retrieving trash in the ocean... Reduce, Reuse & Recycle!

Beach Clean-up Crew Meeting 9:30am at Marina la Cruz Poolside Deli. Drag Net Regatta Captains and Clean-up Crew (deck hands) please meet at the Poolside Deli 11:30 am. I will supply all the bags for collecting trash. Please bring gloves, sun block, hats (for shade) and comfortable shoes. Please contact: pr@marinarivieranayarit.com with any questions or information.

Beta Sigma Phi / Clothing Donations “Hi my name is Kim and I am a part of Beta Sigma Phi, an international service sorority, and we distribute gently used clothing to the seniors in both La Cruz and Bucerias communities along with families who are needy. We are asking again for your help in collecting any clothing/shoes, men’s, women’s or children’s to give to those in need. If you have not left yet and have some clothing you would like to donate, please contact the ladies below and we will happily collect them from you. If you have left, please consider

bringing a few pieces of clothing down with you. We distribute to the seniors in December and to the poor in January or early February. If you would like to help, please contact us: Mary Ann in La Cruz @ 329-2913073 maryannmex@gmail.com Until May 31, Kim in Bucerias @ 322-229-4947 kimandkitties@gmail. com, Rita in Bucerias @ 329-2981263 okollock@orcomm.net Thank you!

Most of the restaurants that remain open for the summer months will be changing up their schedule after this last week of Semana Santa.

Here are a couple of changes: Tescalama in La Cruz has some new schedule changes…Happy Hour ever day 5-7pm.The amazing Zoe Wood will now be playing on Wednesdays, Dinner Show and DJ Dance Party!

Dinner show 7-9pm; 9-10 pm, Zoe plays DJ. Thursday is music with Cantus Eterna. LOVE these guys!

They have a terrific selection of soft and hard rock music.

It’s “Ladies Night” Saturday and Sunday with FREE cocktails 7-8:30.

And of course, all the sports on the big screens. Good food, good times!

Check out their Facebook page for all the latest.

Esquina 22 Bar and Lounge in Bucerias also has live music Wednesday and Friday with daily specials Monday-Friday. I love the consistency of Esquina 22’s food in Bucerias. YUM. And as it warms up they will have the AC on by request. They are now closed on Sunday’s for the summer months.

Thanks everyone for connecting this week! One more week of the holiday crowds, then it’s time for beach clean-up, and then we relax on the clean and almost empty beaches! Check the Riviera Nayarit Fun Facebook page for news and all the latest updates. If you’re interested in advertising in the largest English language newspaper please email me at: CatPVTribune@Gmail.com We have some fantastic summer specials! Are you tired of sitting on uncomfortable furniture? Email me at Cat@SOLutionsMexico.com to find the comfort you deserve. Any questions or comments? Email me.

Cat@RivieraNayaritFun.com Have a fun week everyone. AHO!

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: Monday thru Sunday from 5:00-7:00pm Ladies Free Drink Specials - Saturday and Sunday 7:00-8:30 Live Music: Cantus Eterna Friday 5:00 - 7:30

SPORTS! SPORTS! MORE SPORTS! All week NHL and NBA Playoffs!

Major League Baseball!

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

charity

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April 20 - 26, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

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

You can find all of our local charities online at vallartatribune.com Amigos de La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, A.C. contributing to the quality of life in La Cruz through cultural, educational, environmental and charitable assistance programs.

Tax Deductible. www.amigosdelacruz.org Contact Amy Welch amywelchpdx@ comcast.net Alcoholics Anonymous: In English Puerto Vallarta Alanon Club - Basilio Badillo 329 recoverpv.com Amazing Grace Missions Assisting families in Magisterio & Progreso with necessities and job training and English. slw2014nv@gmail.com American Legion Post 14: raises resources and manpower to improve facilities needing building maintenance americanlegion14.org

Fundacion Punta de Mita LDG. Ana Lilia Medina Varas de Valdés. ana@fundacionpuntademita.org Tel. (329) 291 5053 Friends of PV Animals Volunteers working to enhance the lives of shelter animals. For info and donations visit friendsofpvanimals.com

Amigos del Magisterio - Food delivered directly to workers at the PV dump, their families and schools in Magisterio and Volcanes. Also, food to New Beginnings, Pasitos de Luz, and Caritas. 100% of donations to the people, no overhead.amigosdelmagisterio.com lysephilrioux@hotmail.com

university students. Tax-deductible in Mexico and USA. Polly Vicars at (322) 223-1371 or Buri Gray at (322) 221-5285.

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

Asilo San Juan Diego Home for the Elderly - Contact: Lupita Sanchez Covarrubias 222-1257 or malupita88@hotmail.com or mexonline.com\asilosanjuandiego.htm

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

Asociación Down - Assistance to persons with Down’s Syndrome – Contact: Ana Eisenring at 224-9577.

Centro Comunitario SETACGLBT – Services the GLBT community, including treatment and referrals, education, English classes, HIV testing and counseling. Paco Arjona 224-1974

Banderas Bay Women’s Shelter - Safe shelter for women & children victims of domestic violence. compassionforthefamily.org Becas Vallarta, A.C. – Provides scholarships to high school and

Clinica de Rehabilitación Santa Barbara - Rehabilitation of the handicapped.

Contact: Laura Lopez Portillo Rodriguez at 224-2754.

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

Totally self-funded. www.fundacioncorazon.mx Cruz Roja (Red Cross) Handles hospital and emergency service in Vallarta. It is the only facility that is authorized to offer assistance to injured people on the street.

Contact: 222-1533, 222-4973 Desayunos para los Niños de Vallarta A.C. Feeding programs, education programs, day care centers for single mothers. 2234311 or 22225 72 Discapacitados de Vallarta, A.C. (DIVAC) association of handicapped individuals dedicated to helping one another.

Ivan Applegate at 221-5153.

Ecology and Conservation of Whales, AC. National Coordination Network for the Assistance of Entangled Whales. Biol. Astrid Frisch Jordán, Arce #541. Col. La Primavera Puerto Vallarta, Jal. 48325, Mexico, Tel/Fax: (322) 29 37 851 fibbcatalogo@yahoo.com Families At The Dump: Supporting families living in the landfill or garbage dump thru education and sustainable opportunities. familiesatthedump.org

Grupo Ecológico de Puerto Vallarta: Arq. Luz del Carmen Pérez A cayro_13@hotmail. com grupoecologico.com Horizonte de Paz: Welcoming shelter for men of all ages who are troubled w/alcohol & drug addiction.In great need of cash or material resources Contact MAYNOR Tel 281 0644 horizontedepaz@live.com International Friendship Club - Provides medical, educational and social services to those in need in Puerto Vallarta. www. ifcvallarta.com La Brigada de la Basura: A weekly meeting of neighborhood children to clean Vallarta Streets. Contact Que?Pasa 223-4006 Mexico Ministries & Mission, Inc. raises funds to the poor in Vallarta. Contact Fr. Jack+ 044 322 229-1129 christchurchbythesea.org Puerto Vallarta Navy League AC – Distributes toys to needy children on Three Kings Day, constructs playgrounds in underprivileged areas, assists with transportation of donated medical and educational supplies and equipment from US donors, organizes work groups to do painting and light repair work for other charities, schools and government facilities. Contact: Carol Smith (322)137-4902 New Life Mexico - Challenging Child Poverty with health and education programs. Philippa Vernon pvp@newlifemexico.com PEACEAnimals - Free mobile spay/neuter program 39 plus weeks a year plus weekly education program if schools giving permission. We have 501 (c)(3) under the umbrella of BANDERAS BAY CHARITIESS INC (bbcinc) www.peaceanimals.org

charity

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SPCA of Puerto Vallarta

By Janice Gonzalez

H

ere’s word from Mark McCoy from our booth at the Saturday farmers market: “We didn’t have very many visitors come to our SPCA table last Saturday. In fact we weren’t sure we would get enough pesos from sales and donations to pay our weekly 350 peso fee for having a table in the Market. We never know what we are going to sell. Our surprise last Saturday was selling 14 “I love my pero or gato” bumper stickers.

We also sold the final month in our

by Janice Gonzalez

SPCA calendar for 2018. The next step with the calendar is to get a picture of a pet for each month and then we can send all the info off to our printer.

Thanks to our volunteers Pat, David, Michelle and Lynnette.” And thanks Mark for your report.

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@

ADORABLE DOG IN THE SPOTLIGHT...

TIGER

Tiger has been dubbed the perfect dog by everyone at our sanctuary. He just LOVES everyone and is incredibly friendly. Tiger is a Lab/Boxer mix, two years old and weighing 48.4 pounds. He has a medium energy level and is quite well behaved.

He loves cuddling and giving kisses to people and sometimes wants to be a lap dog. He loves cats too and tries to kiss them which they do not appreciate! He is good with other dogs and takes the role of peacemaker if there is a fight that breaks out among them. We think Tiger would be good with children over 5 years of age as he has a wonderful temperament and is very patient. Tiger has been neutered, dewormed and is current on his vaccinations. If you think this guy sound like the perfect addition to your family, contact us at spcapv@gmail.com for an application.

April 20 - 26, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

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.

Jackie Bristow and Vanessa Amaro at Incanto continued from page 5 nied by Salvatore ‘The Mexican Liberace’ on piano. Next shows April 21 & 28 @ 8:00. Latcho & Andrea: The Blond Gypsies play their final show of the season on April 25 at 8:00. Singer and acoustic guitarist Audi Rodriguez plays in the piano bar on Sundays starting at 7:00. On Tuesdays & Thursdays, velvety voiced Cuban singer, Meche de Cuba, plays in the piano bar starting at 8:00. Popular Jazz/ Blues Quartet, Moelle, plays on Sundays at 8:00. Pianist Jay-Gee and singer/guitarist Gabriel Reyes play on select nights at

5:00. Singer-songwriter Chris Kenny plays Jazz/Blues guitar on Saturdays starting at 8:00 in the piano bar. And BINGO with Pearl fundraisers are held most Saturdays at 5:00.

Tickets and more information are available online at Incanto’s website www.IncantoVallarta.com. Breakfast is served 9:00 - 2:00 Tuesday thru Sunday. Evening meal service begins at 4:00 daily. Happy Hour is 2:00 - 6:00. Incanto is located at Insurgentes 109 (at the Rio Cuale). Box Office opens at 10:00 a.m. Phone them at 322 223 9756 for reservations. Closed Mondays.

VALLARTA SHOPPI

Hand-made Mexican Tiles, Talavera, Saltillo, Mosaico

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

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!

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

DO YOU REALLY NEED

THAT STRAW?

THIS SPACE IS FOR YOU CALL US for shows & times visit

www.BTPV.org

IF YOU DON’T NEED THAT STRAW, THEN THE NEXT TIME YOU ORDER A DRINK SAY -

Sin popote, por favor!

...come play with us!

Tickets available -Vallarta Tickets Online -Theatre Box Office

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

225 4982

ING AND SERVICES Three Hens & a Rooster Market News

www.vallartatribune.com

T

wo amazing Boutiques at Three Hens: one, run by Bill of the Fabulous Fabric Fellows and the other by Pat, each designed with their own personal flair. Notice the incredible masks on Bill’s wall – these are so intricately hand painted and decorated – two the same would be simply impossible! And pillows galore! Then there are aprons of every colour – some so frilly and gorgeous nobody would ever wear them while actually cooking! And some uber-manly long ones that restaurants have been buying for their chefs who insist on leaving their kitchens to check on patrons in the dining room.

Pat’s Boutique is stuffed with women’s plus-sized dresses, skirts, beach cover-ups, shawls, blouses, pants and more; all of them priced to sell now! Pat is issuing a LAST CALL until the fall for her freshly grated horseradish and jalapeno jam so come prepared to stock up for summer! She is also producing gluten-free baked goods; if you have a problem with flour, see Pat. On the floor you will find Lisa Love nearly surrounded by beau-

tiful tiles – many of them handpainted by her.

She is also making room for new artistic endeavors so check out her colorful wall hangings made of patchwork – yes, by Lisa.

Gloria Sue is off to her son’s wedding so will not be open until April 26th. Three Hens is looking for vendors for our Summer Market and there are a couple of Boutique spaces for rent. Ask Jeanine, Mother Hen, for details!

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

Marsol Friday Market by the Pier

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

N

ow that Easter is done, everybody is back on track; our hand-painted tiles are dry and ready to pack into your suitcase to be put where in your house? What a lovely reminder to have of your vacation in our spectacular city; so many instantly recognizable Vallartan landmarks – our church, dolphins jumping, the beautifully long Malecon and the arches; wonderful sculptures that dot our downtown streets.

We have some fine artisan jewelers – from gold to sterling silver to copper and brass with all

the attendant price ranges! Noelia and Cristian make most unusual pieces of jewelry and not only combine metals but create macrame’d tiny flowers and leaves that look like they are crocheted – delicate yet durable and beautiful to wear.

Our monthly BAZAAR is coming up towards the end of April – a great time for condo and home owners who are heading north for the summertime to clear out the old and make a little money doing so.

Super for new owners, too, to stop by; pick up a new gently-used fridge

or stove; possibly an extra couch or some patio/terrace furniture to fill up your new condo or apartment!

Small appliances always sell well and don’t forget your closets!

It’s Spring! Get cleaning!

See Sherry at this Friday Market the 21st to reserve a table for the big event Tuesday, April 25th, from 10 to 2 pm.

As he does every Friday Market, singer/guitarist Gabriel Reyes will be on hand to serenade you through the day.

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

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

www.vallartatribune.com

entertainment

30 Farmer’s Markets

M

ost Farmers Markets run from November through April, though a couple are all year round. Typically they start about 9am and end between 1 and 2pm. Each is a little different and all of them are fabulous!

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

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

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

Mercado at Los Mangos Library Los Mangos Saturday 9-2pm Marina Vallarta Market Every Thursday evening until the end of April along the boardwalk in Marina Vallarta. 6-10pm NUEVO VALLARTA Riviera Nayarit Farmers’ Market Tuesday 9-2pm Tianguis Artesanal Nuevo Vallarta Parking lot at the Business Center; Saturday 9-2pm in the Marina Nuevo Vallarta BUCERIAS Forever Spring Wednesday 9 - 1 pm along Lazaro Cardenas LA CRUZ La Cruz Sunday Market Sunday 10-2pm Over 200 vendors. The bay’s largest market along the Marina Riviera Nayarit SAYULITA & SAN PANCHO Mercado del Pueblo Friday 10-2pm on Revolucion Street Great local and organic market with many vendors available only here.

Mercado del Sol in San Pancho at the Plaza del Sol Tuesdays 10-2pm LO DE MARCOS, GUAYABITOS, CHACALA AND LA PEÑITA The Tianguis Lo de Marcos is held on Luis Echeverría street Saturday 9-2pm The Chacala Cultural Market in the main Plaza. Saturday 9-1pm Guayabitos Market on the main plaza in town Monday 8-1pm La Peñita Market on its main plaza.

Thursday 8-1pm

April 20 - 26, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Matt Damon Actor, Screenwriter

By Fred Jacobs att Damon was born October 8, 1970 in the Boston suburb of Cambridge Massachusetts. His father is a stock broker and his mother was a University professor.

Matt’s parents divorced when he was only 2 years old. His mother would raise Matt and his brother.

Matt was always a good student, but a quiet loner until his high school years.

In High School, Matt acted in several high school theater productions. He credits his High School drama teacher, as an important artistic influence. However in those years, his good friend and schoolmate, Ben Affleck, got the “biggest roles and longest speeches”. That would not be the case for long.

After High School, Matt and Ben went in different directions.

Matt went to Harvard but left just one semester shy of getting his degree to take a movie role. Ben meanwhile spent some time in New York City and eventually moved to Los Angeles.

While Matt was at Harvard, he appeared in many plays and wrote a 40-page script for a playwriting class. That script would later become “Good Will Hunting” (1997). It all happened after Matt moved out to Los Angeles and into Ben’s apartment. The two then began seriously working on the script. The film was set in their hometown of Cambridge and drew from their own experiences.

They sold the screenplay to Castle Rock in 1994, when Matt was 24 years old. Following a lengthy dispute with Castle Rock regarding a suitable director, Matt and Ben persuaded Miramax to purchase the screenplay. The two friends moved back to Boston for a year before the film finally went into production, and co-starred Matt, Ben and Robin Williams.

The film was released in

M

December 1997 to rave reviews.

Made with only a budget of $10 million US, the box office for the film would pass $225 Million US. “Good Will Hunting” would go on to earn 9 Oscar nominations including Best Picture, Best Director and Best Actor nomination for Matt Damon.

Matt and Ben would walk away from Oscar night a statue for Best Original Screenplay and Robin Williams would receive an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor.

This impressive debut into Hollywood, would the careers for both Matt and Ben. Matt would then be recruited by Steven Spielberg to appear in “Saving Private Ryan” (1998) along with Tom Hanks-a $500 million dollar box office hit.

The role cemented Matt’s foothold in Hollywood. Matt then co-starred with Edward Norton in the 1998 poker film “Rounders”.

Matt then took on the lead role

in “The Talented Mr. Ripley” (1999) along with Gwyneth Paltrow, Jude Law, Cate Blanchett and Philip Seymour Hoffman. In 2001, we saw Matt along with Hollywood heavyweights George Clooney, Andy Garcia, Brad Pitt and Julia Roberts in “Oceans 11”. A remake of the “Rat Pack” Las Vegas robbery hit from the 1960. This was followed by sequels “Ocean’s 12” (2004) and “Oceans 13” (2007). All major box office hits.

Matt also launched another multi film franchise with the action/ thriller character of Jason Bourne.

“The Bourne Identity” (2002), “The Bourne Supremacy” (2004), “The Bourne Ultimatum” (2007), and the series’ fifth installment, “Jason Bourne” (2016). “The Bourne Legacy” (2012) did not have Matt in the film as he did not want to return for the 4th one. In all, the 5 Bourne film franchise took in over

500 million US. In 2009, Matt costarred with Morgan Freeman in the film “Invictus”, directed by Clint Eastwood. The story of ending apartheid South Africa, Nelson Mandela and rugby, would earn Matt a Best Supporting Actor Oscar nomination. At the Oscars last month, Matt struck Oscar gold as a producer for the film “Manchester by the Sea” starring Casey Affleck (who also won Oscar for Best Actor) and Michelle Williams (nominated Best Supporting Actress).

During all of this, Matt found time to marry in 2005 and has 3 children. At only 47 years of age, Matt already has 31 films under his belt in the past 20 years. What the next 20+ years hold, is something to look forward to.

Fred Jacobs is a full time resident of Puerto Vallarta and the author of 3 books.

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

31

CROSSWORD SOLVE!

games

April 20 - 26, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com