Issue 1048, May 04 - 10, 2017

CUISINE

PARADISE AND PARENTING

Tuba A Notable Drink

Queen of May

Page 05

Page 07

VallartaTribune.com

E E FR

Office : 322 222 6678 info@ronmorgan.net

CASA ALEMAN

www.ronmorgan.net

$1,199,000 USD

May 4 - 10, 2017 Year 20 Free Issue 1048

DE I U G

VALLARTA AZTECA INTERNATIONAL FOLKLORE FESTIVAL

OPEN MIC NIGHT AT INCANTO Page 09

Featured Property of the Week Page 12 - 13

LIVING IN LA CRUZ Page 15

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

May 4 - 10, 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 CARNIVAL 3,200 03/05/2017 CRYSTAL CRUISES 940 03/05/2017 DISNEY CRUISES 2,400 04/05/2017 CARNIVAL 3,200 10/05/2017 CRYSTAL 1,070 13/05/2017 CELEBRITY 2,499 14/05/2017 CARNIVAL 3,200 17/05/2017 CARNIVAL 3,200 24/05/2017 CARNIVAL 3,200 31/05/2017

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 May Puerto Vallarta welcomes 22,909 passengers!

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

Cut out and put near your phone for handy reference

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Editor’s

editorial

May 4 - 10, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Note

Jeff Reece

editor@vallartatribune.com

T

raffic came to a standstill in downtown Puerto Vallarta last weekend with parades and bike races. If you were in town I hope you got out to experience some of the great events. Including the live music still playing in local bars, restaurants and lounges there was also Down Vallarta, a downhill mountain bike competition that raced through the streets of Centro Vallarta and the start of the 11th Annual Vallarta Folkloric Dance Festival which continues through this weekend.

Casa Karma is hosting a fundraiser on May 5 in support of Fundacion Careaga, an organisation that supports the community through education, culture and sports. More details are found on page 9.

One of the best charity functions of the year, on May 14 the 13th annual Altruism Festival will take place at the CasaMagna Marriott Resort in Marina Vallarta. Tickets can be pre-purchased through any of the receiving charities including Amigos de La Cruz for $400 pesos or $500 at the door. More details can be found on page 17.

The rest of the month is full of events and treasures as well, including Pride and Restaurant Week. If you’re in town in May you’re in luck!

We are coming upon rainy season and most troubling is the huge amount of trash that lines the rivers and spillways. If you live here during this time of year, you know how fast the water can run down the streets, sweeping pretty much everything in its path into the ocean. In the coming weeks before these rains begin, please take the time to go through your neighbourhood and pick up anything that you wouldn’t want floating next to you in the water.

Where I live we have massive

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

culverts, that over the past six – eight months have filled with garbage, construction materials and vegetation. I’ll be doing my part to help clean these areas and I hope you will too. If you are planning something specific in your area please let me know and I’ll happily broadcast it in the newspaper and through our social media accounts.

Some of the artisan/farmers markets have closed for the season and others remain for a few more weeks if not year round. The Marina, Nuevo and Bucerias markets have closed until November. The Friday Farmers market in Sayulita is open for a couple more weeks, while the last market in La Cruz is on Sunday. The Friday market at Marsol will remain open all summer, Three Hens and a Rooster on Saturdays is open through the summer as well and Mercado Los Mangos, also on Saturday, has some new vendors and will remain open for the coming months.

While many venues are closing up for summer, much more

remain open including Incanto in Old Town, Luna Lounge in Bucerias and Tescalama in La Cruz – all offer excellent dining and live entertainment – but check their schedules to confirm times and entertainers.

Enjoy this perfect weather.

Safe travels, Madeline

Report it to the Department of Ecology at 322 160 3279

Alegre Tours Calendar:

Enjoy this miracle of nature!

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

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

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May 4 - 10, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

local

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Mercado Los Mangos: Open Through June

By Paco Ojeda

N

ot even ten weeks have gone by since Mercado Los Mangos opened its doors to the public for the first time, January 28, and the response from vendors and the public has been so positive, organizers have already decided to extend its season until the end of June. “We had originally intended to remain open until the end of May,” explained Biblioteca Los Mangos Director, Adriana García. “However, the majority of our vendors see extending the season into the summer as a good idea, not to mention the fact that this would make Mercado Los Mangos the first seasonal market to announce such an extension.”

For many vendors, the summer months have advantages and disadvantages. Many express concern about the decrease of international tourism, and the snowbirds that head north to avoid the increased heat and humidity.

On the other hand, a feature that has set Mercado Los Mangos aside from the beginning is the huge draw of locals, in search of quality homemade products at affordable prices. An informal poll among regular customers revealed a keen interest in the season extension. “We will take things one month at a time, and evaluate results to consider extending the season further,” added García.

Another feature that has distinguished Mercado Los Mangos has been its friendly vibe. “Both vendors and clients truly enjoy hanging out at Biblioteca Los

Mangos gardens,” commented Ana Espinoza, who oversees the market’s organization. “We may not have as many vendors as other markets yet, but we are banking on maintaining a festive atmosphere to attract an increasing number of vendors and shoppers in the coming months.

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. You will also find plenty of copies of the Vallarta Tribune. Questions?

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

May 4 - 10, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Talking Tuba- A Notable Drink

By Arlene Pervin few years ago, while at Los Arcos, the amphitheatre in the centre of old Vallarta, watching the dance troupe of folkloric dancers who performed each Friday night, I noticed a man slinging a large gourd, fitted with an improvised piece of plastic pipe that acted as a spout. It was obvious that Mexican ingenuity had devised a specific use of this gourd-like vessel. The man walked the rows of the amphitheatre calling out “tubaaa, la tubaaa”, and poured the liquid into the plastic cups and passed it to the waiting customer.

Most people when they hear the word tuba, think of a huge brass instrument, but now I associate the word to a tropical drink and the signature sight of the tuba vendors that station themselves along the malecon of Puerto Vallarta.

The tuba vendor slings his wares, hung from a three- foot pole that balances across his shoulders.

The large, round, golden- brown gourd hangs from one side, while suspended from the other is a multi-coloured nylon mesh bag filled with plastic cups and a plastic baggie filled with chopped pecans and cubes of fresh apple.

He walks the malecon, the words “tuba, la tuba”, tumbling out. I watch him pour the liquid expertly, from the gourd that holds the brew; not spilling a drop. Then, he adds a few sprinkles of pecan and a few cubes of fresh apple to the cup and hands it to the waiting customer.

Tuba, as it is called in Spanish, is a drink that is made from the sap of the coconut palm. In Mexico, tuba is mostly linked to the area around Colima, south of Puerto Vallarta. Men, called tuberos, climb the coconut palms to collect the sap twice a day. A combination of the harvested sap, coconut water, ice, and sugar make up the drink.

One afternoon I was toting groceries from the neighbourhood supermarket, walking side by side with a man slinging his gourd and wares. I smiled at the man, and said something like “muy pesado”, “very heavy”, in acknowledgment of his load. He turned and said, “quince años,” as he pointed to himself. Fifteen years.

I wondered whether his father before him was a tuba seller.

While tuba selling may go back generations, the drink is not native to Mexico. In the 16th century, Spanish galleons that carried spices, silk and other trade goods also carried the species of palm from which tuba is made. Pilipino sailors not

A

It was a hot and sunny afternoon, when I decided to try my first taste of tuba. only brought the coconut palm with them, but also their knowledge and know-how of making tuba, a popular drink in their native land. The seeds of cultural crossover between Mexico and the Philippines stem from this time and the area around Colima proved a prime growing area.

Tuba is known in many other parts of the world, including India, Africa and Southeast Asia. It has many different names. In Nigeria it is called emu, in southern India, kallu, in Sumatra, tuak, and the Philippines and Borneo, share its Spanish name, tuba. In its alcoholic form, for which it is mostly known in other parts of the world, it is called palm wine, or toddy.

Tuba, in Mexico, is usually consumed as a non-alcoholic drink.

It was a hot and sunny afternoon, when I decided to try my first taste of tuba.

It is a bit hard to describe the flavour. The taste is a bit like a young fruity wine with a refreshing, acidic, fresh flavour. It is easy to imagine the fermented form, as palm wine. As I savoured the drink, I imagine a Tuba tasting event, with wine glasses lined up, and tasters rating each glass for flavour, clarity, sweetness, and bouquet.

Jose Luis, a tuba vendor, told me that every vendor makes his own

mix. I’ve never seen a recipe, nor been told the amount or proportions of each of the ingredients. But like all things passed down generation to generation, it is not the recipe, it is a way of life.

The tuba sellers calls of “tubaaa, la tubaaa,” have a higher pitched tone than the orchestral instrument, but it is their melodic announcement of a drink that is as unique as its name. It is just one of the sights, sounds and taste that is part of the street music of Puerto Vallarta. Definitely, a notable drink.

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May 4 - 10, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Second weekend of the Vallarta $25,000 taco goes for Azteca International Folklore Festival just $7,000 at auction

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ale of taco created by Los Cabos chef benefits local Children’s Foundation The world’s most expensive taco, priced at US $25,000, was auctioned off last week for a steal, netting US $7,000 for the Los Cabos Children’s Foundation.

Created by the executive chef at the Hotel Grand Velas Los Cabos, the deluxe taco won international attention when it was introduced earlier this year.

Juan Licerio Alcalá’s variation on the quintessential Mexican dish is a gold-infused corn tortilla containing Kobe beef, shrimp, the world’s most expensive caviar and a black-truffle Brie cheese, garnished with an “exotic” salsa made from chile morita, ultra premium Ley Diamante .925 tequila and kopi luwak, the rare coffee made from

beans extracted from the excrement of an Asian palm civet, a type of cat.

As far as chef Licerio is concerned, it’s worth the price for “the delicacy, the technique and the harmony.”

But there were few — if any — takers.

So the pricey taco was offered as a prize in a draw. And the draw winner, through a ticket bought as a donation, was the local Children’s Foundation. It turned around and offered it in an auction, with the bidding starting at $500, in conjunction with an event on Friday called Sip & Savor at the Grand Velas.

Included in the auction for the taco was a shot of the Ley Diamante tequila used in the salsa, a bottle of which sells for $3.5 million.

Original: Mexico News Daily.

New rules for importing cars

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duana (the General Customs Administration, or AGA) began enforcing new rules for importing used vehicles into Mexico on May 2, 2017 after months of delay and a huge backlog on cars waiting to be imported.

It is not the intention to limit the number of vehicles imported, but rather to ensure that they comply with the new regulations and that their documents are legitimate, Ricardo Treviño Chapa, the general administrator of AGA said in an interview with the El Universal newspaper.

As of May 2, 2017, used vehicles from the U.S. can only be imported into Mexico at Customs offices in Ciudad Juárez, Piedras Negras, Reynosa, Matamoros, Mexicali, Nogales, Nuevo Laredo, Veracruz and Tijuana.

TO account for the backlog of cars waiting to be imported, offices will be open for an extra two hours, operating from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm.

New rules for commercial importers of used vehicles will begin on May 15, 2017.

Treviño said companies authorized to issue purchase documentation for used vehicles now have more requirements to meet, and that they’ll have a 30-day deadline to deliver the vehicles to a Customs office.

“What are we achieving with these new regulations? A guarantee that the vehicle isn’t stolen, that it works properly, that its emission levels are within those allowed and that the taxes have been paid. Ultimately, the end user, the families that purchase a used vehicle, will have the certainty that it will run,” Treviño said.

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00 dancers from around Mexico, Colombia, Chile and Peru continue to participate in the event that runs from April 27 to May 7.

The coordinator, Juan Antonio Salcedo Padilla, thanks the Tourism Directorate and the Vallartense Institute of Culture for their support.

As well, he thanks the families who are helping to house the performers that come from several areas in Mexico including Baja California, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Colima, Hidalgo, Michoacán, Nuevo

Leon, Oaxaca, Quintana Roo and Sinaloa, and Jalisco as well as Columbia, Chile and Peru.

“There are over 600 of the best dancers selected to participate in this annual festival,” says Salcedo Padilla.

There will be concerts each night until May 7 held at the new outdoor main stage next to the Sheraton Hotel, commonly referred to as the volleyball courts or IPEJAL field. In addition there will be seating for 2000 spectators as well as a carnival and market set

up to enhance the festival as a family friendly event.

7:00 pm – IPEJAL (beside the Sheraton) May 4 – Peru and Columbia May 5 – Vallarta Azteca Youth and Jalisco May 6 – Nayarit, Baja California and CDMX May 7 – Nuevo Leon and Vallarta Azteca 7:00pm – Park Hidalgo May 5 - Columbia For more information visit them at: www.facebook.com/FESTVA

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May 4 - 10, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Paradise

From Here

and Parenting Leza Warkentin

Marcia Blondin

Queen of the May

C

mommyinmexico.wordpress.com

marciavallarta@gmail.com

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had a bit of writer’s block this week. At first I didn’t really know why. Whenever I’d sit down at the computer to type, there seemed to be a wide selection of cute cat videos that would pop up on my Facebook feed all of a sudden. And my kids would say something across the house to their dad, who wouldn’t hear them, and then I’d have to facilitate their communication. Plus, I kept having to go downstairs and open the fridge and find nothing to eat. Then I would need to close it and go back upstairs to read what I’d already typed. Which was this: I should get a cat.

This happens every May, and it’s worse this year because we just finished spring break, for crying out loud. It’s the time of year that causes a particular brand of lethargy in me and in many of my fellow parents and colleagues. You see, May is a month of both interruption and celebration. And that’s good in many many ways, but maybe not so good in a few other ways.

In May, there are several days off for some excellent reasons. We have Dia del Trabajo (known in English-speaking countries as Worker’s Day), which is a day off. We have Cinco de Mayo (known in English-speaking countries as Cinco de Mayo) and we have Teacher’s Day. We have Mother’s Day, and, best of all, we have My Birthday to cap it off (you’re welcome).

Picture May as a parade float where everyone’s dressed up like non-scary clowns, laughing and throwing fistfuls of the good candy to every kid who runs alongside.

Heck, they even have clowns that jump off and run up to the kids who are too shy to join the crowd, so everyone is getting the Twix bars and oversized lollipops and decent sized jawbreakers. They’ve got music that’s actually kinda cool.

The other nine school months (well, except probably December and whichever got Easter this year) are the marching bands that sound like they haven’t practiced together in six months. They are the local politicians’ cars where the mayor

is waving out the windows looking bored or the gas company trucks who throw out rock hard bubble gum. We all wave at them, ‘cause it’s still a parade, but where’s May for crying out loud?

But that’s the thing. May is fun, but she wears me out. If I’m not having a long weekend, then I’m getting up at 5:30 to pretend to exercise (but really listen to Stephen Colbert) and make school lunches.

I’m either sitting on the beach at Cuates y Cuetes or I’m tying lots (and lots) of shoes at recess.

I’m either the Queen of the May (and as a mother turning forty-four, I’ve earned this several times over) or Miss Leza who just caught you out of line and is giving you That Look. No wonder I don’t know what to write. I’m not even sure who I am right now.

It doesn’t help that May is right

beside June, and that means that we are reaching the end of a school cycle. So my motivation is starting to bottom out when it comes to listening to my children read aloud, driving to any kind of enriching after school activity, and spreading peanut butter on bread.

But I have to admit that, as a teacher, I am fully expecting my students’ parents listen to them read each and every night. With enthusiasm. I’m sure that’s different somehow.

And really, I shouldn’t complain at all. I love these four day weeks and these cakes for being a teacher, a mother, and simply being born.

Because, honestly, cake is delicious even when it isn’t really.

And the good news is that there will finally be something in my refrigerator that will be sure to ease up this writer’s block.

asa Karma. For those who have had the pleasure of setting foot in this truly amazing place in Vallarta, you already know how hard it is to explain to others how much magic there is contained in that space. It is a resort hotel in Conchas Chinas sitting on the highway going south with lots of steps going down to the rocky coastline and the water. (That last sentence is for location only!)

I have been to Casa Karma for fundraisers, concerts, dinners, picnics, cocktails, Bloody Sundays (a whole article is needed for that!) but the best use of Casa Karma I have experienced yet, was last Saturday night’s ‘Dolphin Reiki Sound - Healing’ event. More than 25 of us spread our yoga mats in a huge circle on the labyrinth at the edge of the rocky shoreline. Early evening; still an onshore breeze, a calm, friendly group, introducing ourselves, exchanging hugs and finally we began with deep breathing exercises, crystals placed over eyes and hearts, rainsticks, overhead birds and always rhythmic waves breaking against the rocks for background sounds. A back-to-childhood memory visit led by Carlos and Haidee in two languages, visualizing being under the sea looking for dolphins and whales. We were sitting together watching the sun go down an energized hour later. Tears fell, hearts were lifted, awareness boosted; all of us giving thanks to our living, breathing Earth so abundantly close at hand at Casa Karma.

There is so much more coming from this single event including the eventual release of the 400 dolphins currently in captivity in Mexico. When I have details I will pass on the information.

Georgia Darehshori, the owner of Casa Karma, celebrated her 73rd birthday on the last day of April and threw herself a surprise party at – guess where! – Casa Karma. A few guests dressed up in the fashion of the 60’s and 70’s…for some

of us, it wasn’t much of a push!

We danced to the tunes spun by the DJ; enjoyed nibblies by Jim Lee and Sean Carey of Celebrations Vallarta, drank fabulous cocktails poured by Manny and the rest of Casa Karma’s great bar staff, with all the profits donated to the “Grow a Shoe” Program.

With contributions from guests, bar sales, and Georgia matching what was raised, 88 needy kids in Vallarta will get new shoes that will grow along with them.

On Friday, May 5 at 8 pm, another event is planned for Casa Karma: “Cena con Causa”. Founded in 2010, Fundacion Careaga is raising funds that will help support various independent projects including IAMPV (Instituto de Artes Musicales de Puerto Vallarta) and the Los Mangos Library’s Summer Camp Program to name just two.

Cocktails start at 8 pm with a gala dinner being served by Café des Artistes, La Leche and Trio Restaurants. Entertainment, live music and many surprises are in store.

See everyone at Casa Karma…until then that’s it, From Here.

entertainment

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By Request, and Open Mic Nights begin at Incanto

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wight Blake is an accomplished pianist, singer and composer who is passionate about music and loves entertaining. In this special two nights only performance of ‘Name That Song!’ he will perform a variety of songs chosen by the audience during the show. Dwight is well-known for singing the hits from favorite artists like Stevie Wonder, Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, Michael Bublé, among many others. He is quite gifted with a wide range vocally and always brings heartfelt passion to his music. ‘Name That Song’ plays May 6 & 13 at 8:00 p.m.

Singer-songwriter and American Idol finalist David Hernandez returns to Incanto starting May 16th. He first garnered national attention with his powerful voice and affable personality during Season 7 of American Idol, finishing in the Top 12. David began acting and singing at age six, starring in musicals and performing with various theatre companies throughout his home state of Arizona. He currently lives in Hollywood, CA where he is writing and producing music, including his recently released hit single

‘Beautiful’. David Hernandez plays May 16 - 23, all shows 8:00 p.m..

Incanto owner Tracy Parks will host Open Mic Night on Thursdays at 7:00 beginning May 4th. He’ll be joined by popular local singer-songwriter Chris Kenny starting May 18th. She’ll play guitar and you’re invited to sing, play an instrument, dance, read a poem… The list is endless and the stage is yours!

Arrive early for Happy Hour 2:00 - 6:00.

Incanto welcomes Sylvie & Jorge from the popular local band The Zippers. Often likened to jazz great Diana Krall and rocker Chrissie Hynde, Sylvie’s rich, uninhibited vocals, accompanied by the talented Jorge on electric guitar, create an evening of soulful rock and jazz. They will play in the piano bar on Tuesdays at 8:00 starting May 9th. Alberto Cuevas ‘El Diamante’ stars in ‘One Night in Mexico’ accompanied by Salvatore on piano with Special Guests. Next shows May 5, 10, & 12 at 8:00. He will also perform with Mexico City’s drag artist/comedian and Comedy Central alum Hugo Blanquet on May 19 & 26 at 8:00.

Singer/guitarist Audi Rodriguez plays in the piano bar on Sundays starting at 7:00. Singer/guitarist Gabriel Reyes plays on select nights at 5:00. Singer-songwriter Chris Kenny plays jazz/blues/classics resuming on Saturdays starting May 13 at 8:00. And BINGO with Pearl fundraisers are held on Saturdays at 5:00.

For more information and online tickets visit Incanto’s website www.

IncantoVallarta.com.

Incanto’s cafe is open from 9:00 a.m.-11:30 p.m. Tuesday thru Sunday, with piano music by Salvatore starting at 10:00 on the riverside terrace.

Happy Hour is 2:00 - 6:00. Incanto is located at Insurgentes 109 (at the Rio Cuale). Box Office opens at 10:00. Phone them at 322 223 9756 for reservations. Closed Mondays.

May 4 - 10, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

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May 4 - 10, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Medical Matters

Que Paso at UDG CUC Michael Nolan

Pam Thompson

Michael Nolen is the host of ‘The Good Morning Wake Up Show,’ which is broadcast as part of the University of Guadalajara’s 104.3 FM radio station at the CUC campus in Puerto Vallarta. Every Saturday at 9 AM

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

104.3wakeupshow@gmail.com

pamela@healthcareresourcespv.com

Peter Gray Museum Reopens

Kids with Cancer - CANICA

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f you haven’t been to the Peter Gray Museum lately, now is a good time to visit. The trees on the CUC campus are in full spring bloom, and the permanent collection of art was recently rearranged to provide better flow and visibility.

There have also been additions to the art collection, plus significant improvements to the physical facilities and our administrative structure.

The Peter Gray Art museum has reopened with a new exhibit and we invite everyone to come view the beautiful art. It is open Monday through Friday from 10 am to 4 pm; please take time to come to the campus and view this wonderful collection.

The Peter Gray Art Museum is on the campus of Centro Universidad de la Costa (CUC). Park in the lot to the right as you enter the campus. Then simply walk a short distance through campus on the tree-lined main walkway to the museum, which is on the left near the reptile conservancy. If you think you may be lost, just ask any student for directions It is a gem with an extensive art collection on display ranging in scope from 18th century to more contemporary work, by Mexican

P and International artists, both paintings and sculptures. Prominent artists on display include: Joan Miro, Beatriz Castaneda, Carlos Merida, Jose Luis Cuevas, Pedro Coronel, and Pedro Friedeberg, among others. It is delightful!

Peter Gray was a strong advocate for many local cultural activities and the museum was named in his honor in 2005. With his passing, responsibility for the museum passed to a non-profit Board that includes his wife, Buri Gray. She is also on the City Cultural Commission. For further information regarding the museum contact Buri Gray at (322) 221-5285.

On Wednesday, May 10 at 1 pm there will be a showing of a 2011 concert filmed at Wembley Stadium in London of the Rock band, My Chemical Romance, it will be showed in the main auditorium. It is free and open to the public. It

last 91 minutes.

Last but not least, Please tune in to my “Good Morning Wake Up Show” every Saturday morning at 9 am. It can be found at 104.3 FM on your radio or at the following internet link. ​ http://udgtv.com/ radio-puerto-vallarta/en-vivo This week will be talking all about the upcoming Altruism Festival, and how you can help protect sea turtles, with Katherine Comer Santos, Director of The Science Exchange Sea Turtle Internship Program. And of course lots of great music and bad jokes.

Please tune in.

Remember It’s better if you cut the whole pizza into four pieces because you may not be hungry enough to eat six. Happy trails to you, ‘til we meet again.

Michael

erhaps I should not use this space to make a plea, but I am going to anyway. There are a vast amount of local charities in the Banderas Bay area. That is awesome, especially for the people (and critters!) that benefit from them. I tend to go for the ones that do not have much of an English voice or fall through the cracks and of course, are more health-related.

That is why I am speaking up for the group “Canicas” – Kids with Cancer.

Ranging at this time from one year to 19 years of age, all with a diagnosis of some form of cancer and from extremely impoverished families, these children must travel to Guadalajara for their treatments (chemo/radiation) while keeping up with their studies among many other struggles, both large and small.

An incredible center has been created (in Palo Seco/Niño Heroes) where they and their families are able to go for support, homework assistance and donations. The first of each month there is a breakfast for the kids and their families and they also receive dispensas of food (beans, rice, fruit and vegetables), school supplies, hygiene supplies and whatever else we can rustle up for them. 20 bags of pretty much the same things. On this morning as well, there is usually a “platica” of some theme and/or craft project.

As is normally the case here, a few wonderful folks have rallied to the cause after receiving my plea.

This is an ongoing project – every month of the year. So, we need assistance not just in the next couple of months, but all year long and I am attempting to really “plan ahead”. If you are ready, willing and able to assist please email me for a detailed explanation of what is needed, what we are doing.

You can go to my Facebook page, scroll down a bit and you will see some postings of the breakfast

held on Saturday, April 29, 2017.

The photos will touch your hearts, I guarantee you. Probably one of the most heartwarming and humbling experiences I have had in a very long time. Thank you so very much!

If you are in the area the rest of this month, we invite you to attend our upcoming Speakers Program given by Dr. Jaime Zayas (head of the Salud (Health Department) on “Everything You Need to Know about Zika, Dengue and Chinkingunya”. Why not hear data from the expert rather than via the jungle drums of Vallarta? May 22, 2017 at 10am. RSVP and I will send details, location. No charge event. As we move into the rainy season, now more than ever this is important information.

On May 29, 2017 we are so very pleased to have Dra. Adi Dominguez, psychiatrist at our “Breakfast with a Physician.” Dra. Adi has returned to her private practice after a few years off (having had twins!).

She is a star and this is your opportunity to ask her questions! From bi-polar meds to Alzheimer’s she has the info! 9.30 am and RSVP please for details. No charge event.

Our May Clinics are just about full! Who says we are in “low season”? Baloney!

Enjoy this stunning weather and here’s to a dazzling week!

expat

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May 4 - 10, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Two Expats Mexican Charities IRS Tax in Mexico and Deductible Contributions Paul Kurtzweil

Orlando Gotay, Tax Attorney

www.qroo.us

tax@orlandogotay.com

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

Mexico: A Look at the Cost of Pet Care

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eaders of the blog often ask me about the cost of pet care here in Mexico. More specifically, the costs associated with veterinary care, grooming and boarding.

I gathered price data by visiting numerous businesses providing veterinarian and/or pet grooming services.

The businesses ranged from small veterinarian clinics located over pet stores to larger pet spas.

The prices are given in pesos (MXN) and U.S. dollars (USD).

The exchange rate used was 19.25 MXN to 1 USD. Veterinarian Care Consultation: $350 -$500 MXN [$18.18 – $25.97 USD] Health certificate: $250 – $400 MXN [$12.98 – $20.77 USD] Hospitalization*: $1,500 – $2,500 MXN [$77.92 – $129.87 USD] * Price generally does not include consultation, lab tests or medications Blood transfusion: $900 – $2,500 MXN [$46.75 – $129.87 USD] Treatment for parasites: $100 – $300 MXN [$5.19 – $15.58 USD] Vaccinations Rabies: $200 – $250 MXN [$10.38 – $12.98 USD] Bordetella: $220 – $400 MXN [$11.42 – $20.77 USD] Distemper + Parvovirus + Adenovirus + Parainfluenza + Rabies + Leptospirosis: $500 – $600 MXN [$25.97 – $31.16 USD] Feline Distemper + Feline Herpesvirus + Calcivirus: $290 – $400 MXN [$15.06 – $20.77 USD]

Grooming Bath Only Small dog or cat (1-12 kg): $120 – $200 MXN [$6.23 – $10.38 USD] Medium dog (13-25 kg): $130 -$280 MXN [$6.75 – $14.54 USD] Large dog (26 kg and up): $170 – $350 MXN [$8.83 – $18.18 USD] Grooming (Bath + Hair Cut + Nails Cut + Anal Glands Expressed) Small dog or cat (1-12 kg): $185 – $260 MXN [$9.61 – $13.50 USD] Medium dog (13-25 kg): $200 -$320 MXN [$10.38 – $16.62 USD] Large dog (26 kg and up): $300 – $400 MXN [$15.58 – $20.77 USD] Boarding Small dog or cat (1-12 kg): $180 – $230 MXN [$9.35 – $11.94 USD] Medium dog (13-25 kg): $200 -$250 MXN [$10.38 – $12.98 USD] Large dog (26 kg and up): $220 – $300 MXN [$11.42 – $15.58 USD] * the prices above are the average for standard boarding. Some facilities offer upgraded kennels for between $300 – $400 MXN ($15.58 – $20.77 USD) Let’s Wrap This Up I chose Playa del Carmen for my study for two main reasons: 1) there are numerous pet related businesses due to the large population (over 200,000); and 2) we were already in Playa del Carmen anyway. The second reason was really the one that pushed it over the top for me.

Although prices vary across the country, this article can still give you idea of what you can expect to pay if you choose to relocate to Mexico with your fur babies.

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ometime back I noticed interesting language in the US-Mexico tax treaty. The treaty is an agreement for the purpose of minimizing double taxation between both countries.

Article 22 allowed deductions against US income tax for contributions to Mexican charities. Intrigued, I picked up the phone.

The SAT, the Mexican IRS, publishes a regularly updated list of all recognized charities, much like its American counterpart. The lengthy list even has a section of entities that are authorized to receive “donations from abroad”. I was excited, because there it was in the treaty. Authorized Mexican charities, check. The treaty says that deduction amounts are among others, limited to Mexican sourced income. Ok, I get that. Normally, US tax-deductible charitable contributions have to be made to US charities—the “501(c)(3)” organizations you may know about.

I decided to look on the IRS side to make sure this was as it appeared to be. Finding who within the IRS had any clue about this was a task by itself. Finally, I located the

right IRS attorney in Washington.

Friendly guy, but with lots of “oh, hmm, ehmms”. Those tell me I am on to something I should not have asked about.

Asked if the IRS recognized the Mexican charities list, he replied he knew about the list. Pressed again, he admitted no, no recognition. Somewhat cornered, he explained that “something had changed” in Mexican law that made all Mexican charities unrecognized for purposes of the American tax deduction. I asked “what changed, and when?” More ahems. Despite the treaty, no deductions are allowed because there is no recognized Mexican charity that can receive US tax deductible contributions. None? Sounds wishy-washy to me.

Eventually the friendly IRS

lawyer did say that the Treasury Department was in conversations with Mexico on the subject.

My conversations took place in October of last year. Something tells me those conversations may have been quietly shelved after January. I don’t think the Trump administration would like to resuscitate anything that seems to benefit the Mexico in any way.

What burns me is that there is no IRS guidance on this point. I’m sure Mexican charities may do great work. Beware! Someone can make a donation to a Mexican charity in good faith, relying on the treaty and hoping for a US tax deduction, later getting “nailed” for it. Many folks tell me things in Mexico are often not what they appear to be. This may be one of them, but the blame may be on the other side.

Frankies has gone crazy!

A bottle of red house wine plus a Margarita pizza for only $290 pesos from 5 - 11pm

Valid from May 4 - 10, 2017 Open from Tuesday to Saturday from 5-11pm Venustiano Carranza 276 Zona Romรกntica 223 2267

Featured Property of the Week

Turn-Key Vacation Property PENINSULA 16E 2 bed, 2 bath, 1,680 Sq Ft. This amazing beachfront unit truly has it all. Located in the popular north tower of Peninsula Vallarta, this home has amazing views both to the bay, marina and the mountains. With pools, gym, theater room and concierge service, the lifestyle you want at a price you can afford. Some of the features of this home are private entrances to the bedrooms, a wrap-around terrace,

granite kitchen with modern stainless appliances and even two malls out your back door! There are lovely lit walking trails up the adjoining river if you need some variety from exploring the sandy beaches. This lovely corner unit has lots of light, amazing views and is a tremendous value. It is sold unfurnished. http://www.boardwalkrealtypv. com/properties/peninsula-16e/

art & culture

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May 4 - 10, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

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.

Vochol, Herbie the Love Bug’s Mexican cousin

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here’s just something about the VW Beetle that says “get creative with me!” It is one of few car models that looks good with innovative paint jobs, both in terms of color and design.

While the concept of an “art car” has produced some… well… interesting decoration schemes, let’s be frank, most are just ugly collections of junk.

The same can definitely not be said about the Vochol, a VW Beetle (newer version), which was decorated with over 2,277,000 tiny plastic beads, sponsored by the Museo de Arte Popular (Folk Art Museum or MAP) in Mexico City.

To create the work four artisan families noted for their beadwork were hired to design and carefully place each bead.

An estimate 9,000 hours of work, by far most cover the exterior of the car where they were affixed with a special high temperature adhesive.

This means that the car can be driven, but this has never been done. Beadwork can be found in the interior as well, such as the

dashboard and the seat covers, but it is the outside work that is the most eye-catching because here is where the main imagery is.

These represent the religion and culture of the Huichol people (more properly called the Wirrárika), an indigenous group that live in western Mexico, primarily in the states of Jalisco and Nayarit.

The car’s hood has two snakes above clouds, which represent rain, the back has images of offering and a canoe steered by a shaman.

On the sides there are images of the gods of the sun, fire, corn, deer and peyote.

The roof has a large sun and four eagles, representing the union between man and the gods. The project was completed in time for Mexico’s 2010 anniversaries of its independence and the Mexican Revolution, the front fenders contain the phrases “200 years of Independence” and “100 years since the Mexican Revolution” in the Wixarika language.

The name of the piece, Vochol, comes from “vocho” (Mexican Spanish slang for VW Beetle) and

“Huichol.”

The project was originally meant to be on display for the anniversaries, then to be set for auction as a fundraiser for the Museo de Arte Popular.

But the popularity of the piece with the public was such that the museum changed its mind and instead has used the piece to

promote Mexican handcrafts and Huichol culture.

The car has exhibited nearly constantly since 2010, and has toured the United States, Canada and Europe, along with Mexico.

Over 2.27 million people have viewed the car since 2010.

The piece has its own website and Wikipedia article (in five

language versions), quite possibly the only individual Mexican handcraft piece to have such honors.

Vochol has since returned to the Museo de Arte Popular in Mexico City where you can view it Tuesday through Sunday.

(All photos courtesy of the Museo de Arte Popular, unless otherwise indicated)

riviera nayarit

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May 4 - 10, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Living In La Cruz Cindy Bouchard

cindy@VillaAmordelMar.com

Celebrating the Patron Saint of La Cruz!

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y the time you read this La Cruz will have celebrated its annual day of the cross; “Santa Cruz” or in our instance “La Cruz”. Some love it, embrace it and enjoy… and others leave town stating it’s too loud. For sure, it’s hard on the animals, so much banging and music, sometimes to the wee hours of the night. To me it is all about the magical moments (many moments over the ten days).

As my friends and I discussed at the annual parade, which culminates the festivities; this is why we live here! We see the locals at their finest, both in dress and in spirit.

They wear traditional fashions; they sing and dance both on stage and in the streets. They get together and bless their town every night with a religious parade. Best of all they include those of us that love La Cruz de Huanacaxtle as much as they do!

Admittedly the most annoying are the cuetes or cohetes; pyrotechnic noisemakers. They are shot off at dawn and dusk, I’m told, for ten days before religious events to get people out to church. Perso-

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! 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.

nally I think it’s just an excuse for big boys to make noise! They are shot into the air, making a very loud noise and emitting a small smoke effect at the same time. They are not pretty fireworks at all!

Speaking of fireworks - on the final night of the event a castillo (huge firework display often in the shape of a bull) standing 40 feet high, a wood and metal contraption that shoots colorful flames and fireworks into the air in the main plaza. I stand back, way back as I delight in the colourful show.

Similar to small towns everywhere, there is a parade where all participate - from the local ‘queen’ and their princesses to businesses sharing their success. There are horses, lots and lots of horse dancing in the street. My favourite is when the horses march down the

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

May 7 - Salty Paw Jazz Orchestra concert at the Jazz Foundation at 7 pm - Allende 116, el Centro, Puerto Vallarta, just a few feet off the Malecon and across the street from La Bodegita del Medio.

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.

International Altruism Festival (May 14) This festival is celebrating its 13th

beach in front of our inn. I wait for it.

Those who own the dancing horses are so proud of them. Throughout the year we see them training and practicing, sometimes on the beach; always a beautiful sight. The bonding between horse and human is humbling.

Another similarity to towns ‘back home’ is that there are games and rides. Sometimes it feels we are in a parallel universe! One of the carnival games is to throw rocks, yes real rocks, at glass bottles embedded in a wall. It cracks me up. I stand back watching! A few years ago my niece beat all the guys! Her prize?… A beer for each one of them. Fun has a whole new meaning at times like these.

Although these fiestas commence in April the final day, May 3rd is the best. This is the day of the Holy Cross and our Patron saint of La Cruz day. There is always live music, folkloric dance, fireworks and lots of food and drink (and yes, alcohol is very much allowed).

If you haven’t experienced it, diarize it and consider joining us next year!

year, looking to help different associations that provide aid to the people of the Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta. Held at the Marriott hotel in Marina Vallarta with music, drink and food this is one of the most popular charity events of the year, drawing the best restaurants, big crowds and lots of fun!

above all, the perfect conditions for kitesurfing in both Bucerías and La Cruz de Huanacaxtle. Grab a blank and join everyone on the beach to watch this sporting event.

Restaurant Week (May 15 - 31) This restaurant festival takes place for two weeks in the Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta, where some of the best restaurants in Mexico offer three-course prix fixe menus. It’s a fantastic opportunity to try out new eateries.

Hecho en Mexico (May 20) Once again Garza Blanca Resort and Hotel Mousai in Puerto Vallarta will be hosting a colorful tribute to Mexico’s art, culture and traditions with Hecho en México (Made in Mexico) 2017. The cultural event is set to celebrate all things Mexican with a special Mexican Festival that is open to both guests at the hotels as well as locals who wish to purchase tickets for the special event.

Riviera Nayarit Wind Festival (May 19 - 21) This is without a doubt one of the destination’s anchor festivals and it’s among the top 10 best of the year thanks to its wow factor, the amount of participants and,

Vallarta Pride (May 21-28) Vallarta Pride is now an 8-day annual event that pays tribute to the LGBT community with arts and cultural events, concerts, films, beach parties and a lot of fun to

show the world the fabulous diversity of our destination.

Jarretaderas Shore Fishing Festival (May 21) Shore fishing tournaments are held year round in different villages around the Riviera Nayarit, with Jarretaderas next on the list.

The entire purpose of the exercise is for families to come together and have a great time while the participants show off their fishing skills.

Riviera Nayarit Mountain Bike (May 27) Mountain bike lovers rejoice: this is your event, which combines the beach at Litibú with the mountain at Higuera Blanca for an amazing event. Cyclists 18 years and older are welcome to ride till the wheels come off!

Look for more information each week as the events get closer to their date.

charities

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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

May 4 - 10, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Amazing Grace Missions Assisting families in Magisterio & Progreso with necessities and job training and English. slw2014nv@gmail.com American Legion Post 14: raises resources and manpower to improve facilities needing building maintenance americanlegion14.org

Amigos del Magisterio - Food delivered directly to workers at the PV dump, their families and schools in Magisterio and Volcanes. Also, food to New Beginnings, Pasitos de Luz, and Caritas. 100% of donations to the people, no overhead.amigosdelmagisterio.com lysephilrioux@ hotmail.com Asilo San Juan Diego Home for the Elderly - Contact: Lupita Sanchez Covarrubias 222-1257 or malupita88@hotmail.com or mexonline.com\asilosanjuandiego.htm Asociación Down - Assistance to persons with Down’s Syndrome – Contact: Ana Eisenring at 224-9577.

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

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

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.

Casa Hogar - A shelter for orphaned, abandoned, disadvantaged or vulnerable children.

Luz Aurora Arredondo at 221 1908, casahogar_maximocornejo@hotmail.com Centro Comunitario SETACGLBT – Services the GLBT community, including treatment and referrals, education, English classes, HIV testing and counseling. Paco Arjona 224-1974 Clinica de Rehabilitación Santa Barbara - Rehabilitation of the handicapped.

Contact: Laura Lopez Portillo Rodriguez at 224-2754.

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

continued on page 18

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

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

charities

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ADORABLE DOG IN THE SPOTLIGHT... OLIVE

SPCA of Puerto Vallarta

By Janice Gonzalez he SPCAPV has started a new opportunity for businesses to contribute and become sponsors. Thank you to these new sponsors dedicated to making a difference. Write to clare23leach@gmail.com to join us.

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Support our Sponsors Carl Timothy owner of Timothy Real Estate group, “Timothy Real Estate Group is proud to be a sponsor of SPCA de PV. The loving and kind volunteers and workers that dedicate their time to the community are very much appreciated by all neighborhoods. Timothy Real Estate Group sincerely hopes that everyone will consider supporting this wonderful organization. Without these caring people, Vallarta wouldn’t be as special as it is!”

Website: www.timothyrealestategroup.com Bill Wells owner of Elements, “Elements of Design has been serving the Puerto Vallarta community for over ten years.

We offer quality home décor.

In addition, we offer complete interior design services with a friendly bi-lingual staff. We are design consultants and suppliers to several local developers designing and furnishing their public areas as well as model apartments. Stop by our showroom and meet rescue dogs Vuitton and Vera. Website: www.elementspv. com. Alexia owner of Colorizimo Hair Studio, “Colorizimo as an independent small business that has grown and succeeded in Puerto Vallarta over the last twelve years shows our grati-

May 4 - 10, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

by Janice Gonzalez

tude to the local community by supporting associations such as SPCAPV. Every day the SPCAPV makes an incredible difference in the lives of so many dogs. We’re socially committed, environmentally aware, equal rights supporters and pet friendly.” Website: www.colorizimohairsalon.com Visit the Sanctuary Come and spend a rewarding afternoon cuddling the animals at Puerto Vallarta’s SPCA Sanctuary. Our dogs and cats are awaiting “forever homes” and your help is needed to jump start their socialization. The goal is to get these animals adjusted and ready to interact in the real world. The majority of the SPCA animals either come from extremely abusive situations or they have been abandoned. Your love and attention can make up for that sad history. During your visit, you can interact with the animals and even take a dog (or two or three) for a walk.

Reservations to visit the sanctuary need to be made in advance. To make a reservation, contact us at spcapv@gmail.com.

We appreciate any donations you

can bring for our rescues and also please feel free to bring treats for sanctuary staff as they truly appreciate it.

Adopt!

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.

Donate!

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.

O

live is a lovely Labrador mix, almost three years old and weighing 66 pounds.

She is really good with people and would make a wonderful family dog. She is very affectionate and would like to be a “lap” dog! Well behaved she is also good on leash.

We recommend Olive be the only

dog in the household as she tends to be dominant. She is not good with cats.

Olive has been spayed, dewormed and she is up to date on all her vaccines. If you are looking for a lovely dog to add to your family, contact us at spcapv@ gmail.com for an application.

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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.

vallartatribune.com

Ecology and Conservation of Whales, AC. National Coordination Network for the Assistance of Entangled Whales. Biol. Astrid Frisch Jordán, Arce #541. Col. La Primavera Puerto Vallarta, Jal. 48325, Mexico, Tel/Fax: (322) 29 37 851 fibbcatalogo@yahoo.com Families At The Dump: Supporting families living in the landfill or garbage dump thru education and sustainable opportunities. familiesatthedump.org Fundacion Punta de Mita LDG. Ana Lilia Medina Varas de Valdés. ana@fundacionpuntademita.org Tel. (329) 291 5053 Friends of PV Animals Volunteers working to enhance the lives of shelter animals. For info and donations visit friendsofpvanimals.com Grupo Ecológico de Puerto Vallarta: Arq. Luz del Carmen Pérez A cayro_13@hotmail.com grupoecologico.com Horizonte de Paz: Welcoming shelter for men of all ages who are troubled w/alcohol & drug addiction.In great need of cash or material resources Contact MAYNOR Tel 281 0644 horizontedepaz@live.com

VALLARTA SHOPPING AND SERVICES

Hand-made Mexican Tiles, Talavera, Saltillo, Mosaico

for shows & times visit

www.BTPV.org

...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

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

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

Three Hens and a Rooster Market News

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

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

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

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

loria Sue, a.k.a. Mama Vallarta, is back from a family stateside wedding and has returned to her kitchen to create Jewish comfort food for all of us. Her salads are fresh and delicious and, as the weather heats up, far easier to buy all you need from her than it is to make it yourself.

Gloria will happily tell you: You don’t get points for suffering.

Still on food – Pat Wagner is

making pound cake this week with (are you ready?) peaches and cream frosting!

Her dense, heavy, yet still moist pound cake is the best in Vallarta. If chocolate is your fave, then try Pat’s triple chocolate brownies – these are little bite-sized mini cupcakes with almond cream frosting.

Then for dessert try some chocolate or peanut butter fudge!

Her shipment of fabulous new

Throughout the summer we are having a daily 99 peso dinner special-a different feel good, comfort food everyday.

First drink at Dinner is available from 4 to 10 Que Pasa is 2 x 1 Happy Hour is daily from 5 to 8 Aquiles Serdan # 625 Col. Emiliano Zapata Phone: 223-4006 michael@quepasavallarta.com quepasavallarta.com

fabrics have arrived so many new wine tote bags will be unveiled this Saturday…any existing stock is priced to move fast! Pat’s pillow and art clearance sale continues….

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

www.vallartatribune.com

Marsol Friday Market by the Pier

I

n his youth, David Ruesga studied, worked hard at his craft and became a goldsmith. When the price of gold became prohibitive he turned to silver, which he deems “a good metal”. Today, David and his wife, Elizabeth, can be found at the Marsol Market, laying out meters of shiny, bright earrings, bracelets, pendants and necklaces of sterling silver inlaid with semi- and precious stones. Both David and Elizabeth speak English well and have a long history of clientele that returns year after year to buy something special from their favorite silversmith.

David’s new silver wire bracelets are light and malleable to fit snugly but not too tight with some set with sparkling stones. David will explain the differences of various grades of silver, for example; what the stamp .‘ 925’ means and why you should look for it before you buy anything!

Next to David is Ricardo Mazcal, the fourth generation of herbalists in his family. Ricardo practices what he preaches – consuming his remedies daily and using his own creams and lotions. You will

be surprised to learn he is 75 years old and his herbalist great grandmother lived to be 112. Towards the end of her life, she had, according to family lore, a lover less than half her age. Her likely secret? Extracto

de Garanona, which Ricardo highly recommends for both women and men whose hormonal levels have dropped. Try it; you might like it!

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

entertainment

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Farmer’s Markets

M

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

PUERTO VALLARTA 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 BUCERIAS 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

May 4 - 10, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Cole Porter Great music composer rise to us success

By Fred Jacobs

W

hen we left off last week, Cole and his “wife” had decided to give up the lavish and decadent life in Europe and head back to New York and the lights of Broadway. The main reason Cole went to Europe originally, was due to New York audiences not “getting his music”. Cole was far ahead of his time. He was fearless of taboo subjects, and sex was one of his favorites. Europe loved Cole’s music, but the time was right to try New York again.

In 1928, Cole returned to Broadway with the musical “Paris” with now famous songs “Let’s Misbehave” and “Let’s do it”. Cole did this while he still managed musicals running in London and Paris.

His reintroduction to Broadway was a success, but as fate would have it, the stock market crash of 1929, all but shut down luxuries like Broadway plays. Cole fell into a depression and seriously considered giving up song writing. Cole’s current play including the hit song “What Is This Thing Called Love?” were shut down.

Cole’s next chance on Broadway was with “The New Yorkers” (1930) and became an instant hit with a song about a streetwalker, “Love for Sale”. The lyrics were actually considered too explicit for radio at the time, so the song it was recorded and aired as an instrumental only and rapidly became a standard on radio. Cole often referred to the song as being his favorite.

Cole’s next play would also be Fred Astaire’s last stage show, “Gay Divorce” (1932). It featured a hit that probably became Cole’s bestknown song, “Night and Day”. The show ran for a profitable 248 performances, and the rights to the film, “The Gay Divorcee” (1934), were sold to RKO Pictures. The film and the music were a huge hit, with Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers as the leads in the film.

Next up in 1934 was a huge hit with “Anything Goes” starring Ethel Merman. It ran for 420 performances, becoming the fourth longest-running musical of the 1930s, despite the impact of the Great Depression on Broadway.

The music hits from the play were “Anything Goes”, “I Get a Kick out of You”, “All Through the Night” and “You’re the Top”. Tony Awards flowed for the musical.

Cole loved Ethel Merman’s brassy voice and would write music for 5 plays with Merman in mind.

One included “Red, Hot and Blue” (1936), starring Ethel Merman, Jimmy Durante and Bob Hope. By the mid 1930’s, Hollywood also began knocking on Cole’s door.

For the MGN film “Born to Dance” (1936), with James Stewart, Cole wrote the hits “You’d Be So Easy to Love”, “I’ve Got You Under My Skin”, and “Rosalie” (1937), featuring the song “In the Still of the Night”.

By the 1936, the Porters moved to Hollywood, but Cole’s wife did not like the scene there. As well, Cole’s homosexual activities, formerly very discreet, became less so in Hollywood. His wife retreated to

their Paris home. When his filming for “Rosalie” was finished in 1937, Porter headed to Paris to make his peace with Linda, but she remained cool. Cole returned to New York in October 1937 without her. But they were soon reunited by a major accident suffered by Cole.

In October, 1937, Cole was horseback riding with friends, when his horse rolled onto him and crushed his legs, leaving him crippled and in constant pain for the rest of his life.

Though doctors told Cole’s wife and mother that his right leg would have to be amputated, and possibly the left one as well, Cole refused to have the procedure. Linda rushed from Paris to be with him, and supported him in his refusal of amputation. He remained in the hospital for seven months before he was allowed to go home to his New York apartment. He resumed work as soon as he could, finding it took his mind off his pain.

Throughout the 1940’s and early 1950’s Cole continued to write songs, many of which became instant hits and classics. Cole’s wife died in 1954 and by 1958, Cole’s leg injuries continued to cause great pain. After 34 operations, his right

leg finally had to be amputated and replaced with an artificial limb. Cole never wrote another song after the amputation and spent the remaining six years of his life in relative seclusion, seeing only intimate friends.

Cole Porter’s incredible catalogue of music has been sung by all the biggest stars for over 90 years now. Including Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland, Ella Fitzgerald, Liza Minelli, Bette Midler, Alanis Morissette, Sheryl Crow, Elvis Costello, and Natalie Cole among others.

Cole’s top hit songs would have to include “Night and Day”, “Anything Goes”, “Don’t Fence me in”, “I Get a Kick out of You”, “Miss Otis Regrets”, I’ve Got Your Under My Skin”, and “It’s De-Lovely”.

Amazingly, despite his immense catalogue of songs and huge success on the radio and record sales, Cole Porter was only nominated for one Tony, 4 Oscars and 3 Grammy’s. But that pales in comparison to the music he created, that defined a generation...or 3.

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

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May 4 - 10, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

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