Issue 1059, July 20 - 26, 2017

NEWS

ENTERTAINMENT

Page 06

Page 05

Hurricane Season in Mexico

Pearl’s Gurlz spice things up at Incanto

VallartaTribune.com

Animals have feelings too Page 14

July 20 - 26, 2017 Year 20 Free Issue 1059

DE I U G

a or Ah en l ño pa Es

E E FR

SPCA DE PV

“Triton and Mermaid”

by Carlos Espino (1990) Page 16 creative hands of mexico Page 08

Featured Property of the Week Page 12

CORONA SUNSET FEST THIS WEEKEND Page 19

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

July 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 CARNIVAL MIRACLE 3,200 05/07/2017 CARNIVAL MIRACLE 3,200 12/07/2017 CARNIVAL MIRACLE 3,200 19/07/2017 CARNIVAL MIRACLE 3,200 26/07/2017

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 July Puerto Vallarta welcomes 12, 800 passengers!

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

Cut out and put near your phone for handy reference

02

03

Editor’s

editorial

Note

editor@vallartatribune.com

Lots of events in July and August

DO YOU REALLY NEED

THAT STRAW?

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ext week I head to British Columbia for a month where the plan is to escape the heat and humidity, float down the river on my new giant pineapple floaty and visit with friends and family. Since I’ll be gone most of August it means I will miss the ‘the’ beach party of the season - Cheryl’s Shoebox 2nd Annual Summer Bash will be held on August 6, 2017 at Babel Bar. This all day event raises funds for school supplies and other items for local children. This is their one major fundraising event of the year and of course they could use all the help they can get! Plus its super fun times.

Check out Cheryl’s Shoe Box on facebook for all the details.

Rumour has it that H&M is opening at La Isla on July 27 and the first 300 people through the doors get a 300 peso gift card and if you bring three items of used clothing to donate, they’ll give you 15% off your total. For many ‘fashionistas’ this is a welcome addition to the shopping scene in PV. It will be interesting to see how prices compare to NOB. The Annual Ceviche and Aguachile Festival is back at Lazaro Cardenas Park on July 29 from noon until 7pm. There will be over 30 variations of ceviche and Aguachile for you to try along with entertainment and more. Go early. It sells out.

If you’re still hungry the check out what is probably the most unusual dinner invitation you’ll receive!

“Let’s Have Dinner and Talk About Death” aims to inspire people to talk about an often-not-discussed topic—death and dying. This is a conversation that people simply are not having.

On July 29, a 3 course meal with 3 thought-provoking ques-

tions for you to discuss with your table mates. The evening will conclude with a group discussion. Cost is $299 pesos. Space is limited to 20 people! To reserve your seat, please send an email to jkm@vallartahospicio.com.

And for something a little out of the ordinary, take a trip to Tepic, the capital of Nayarit, to enjoy the Corn Festival, running August 6-15, 2017. A visit Xalisco (a suburb of Tepic) this August can be a great way to experience the Riviera Nayarit and its traditions.

Events including dances, entertainment, horse races and more.

The biggest ear of corn wins a prize. It is also the economic centre for the Huichol and Cora people and a great place to shop for handcrafts and artisan treasures.

Around town, there are plenty of great things happening. Some great shows coming to Incanto, check out Patio de mi Casa for some live music, the Jazz Foundation has some big names planned for the summer, and on the other side of town Cap’t

Don’s has live music and cheap cold beer over the weekends, Solar on Playa Camarones often has Dj music to set the mood as you head into the night.

Stay cool, hydrate and enjoy your time here.

Safe travels, Madeline

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

Sin popote, por favor!

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

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

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.

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usic & comedy drag revue, Pearl’s Gurlz, comes to Incanto for one night only, Saturday, July 22 at 8:30pm.

Starring Angelica, Diva, Mauri & Ghia, four of Vallarta’s legendary drag performers lip-synch their most popular music and comedy numbers. The talent and glamour will be over-the-top, with incredible likenesses of your favorite stars and gorgeous costumes! Incanto owner Tracy Parks’ hilarious version of the Aunt Pearl character from Greater Tuna will host this star-studded evening, as only ‘she’ can! Many have come to know Aunt Pearl more recently for her very successful and fun weekly BINGO fundraisers held on Saturdays at 5pm benefitting local organizations, including the IAMPV Orchestra School and Ballet Folklorico Tradiciones. This special presentation of Pearl’s Gurlz will kick-off the their already mostly sold-out tour of Canada later this month. Tickets are available at Incanto’s website.

Hit comedy Princessas Desesperadas returns for a limited run July 28 & 29, Aug. 4 & 5 and Sept.

1 & 2 at 8:30pm in the cabaret theater. In the piano bar, Azúca plays Gypsy swing/Latin jazz on

July 20 - 26, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Star-studded ‘Pearl’s Gurlz’ spices things up at Incanto and Chef Jorge keeps them coming back!

Wednesdays and Sundays at 7:30pm. Sylvie & Jorge of The Zippers band play Tuesdays at 8pm. Open Mic is Thursdays at 7pm hosted by Tracy Parks, with Chris Kenny on guitar. ‘The Joanie Show’ starring Joan Houston with Salvatore on piano plays on Fridays at 7:30. Chris Kenny’s solo show plays Saturdays at 8pm, followed

by Spanish guitarist Gabriel Reyes at 10pm (also on Fridays). Beat the heat with cold A/C! And enjoy their July daily drink special of 2x1 house cocktails/wine. No cover.

In addition to outstanding nightly entertainment, Incanto has fast become a very popular place for breakfast/brunch served rain or shine, featuring piano music by Salvatore. Starting at 7:45am, Chef Jorge T’ho-il is hard at work in the kitchen preparing the day’s selections. Popular items include, “Aunt Pearl’s Southern Style Eggs Benedict” with freshly baked biscuits, made-to-order omelets, biscuits with sausage gravy, and other

scrumptious selections and daily specials.

A specialty Chef Jorge brought from the Yucatan is the popular Huevos Motuleños (two eggs and black beans served between flash fried tortillas and a special red sauce). Delicious and unique, it originates from his hometown of Merida. Born and raised there, Chef Jorge studied and earned a degree in architecture at the university. Later, he developed other interests including fine cuisine, ultimately opening Yucateco restaurant in Vallarta several years ago.

After the restaurant closed, and a stint running a popular ‘Luncheria’, he joined the successful team at Incanto. One of three full-time chefs, he is responsible for the morning shift and is constantly developing new ideas and menu items to keep Incanto’s customers happy and coming back. In addition, Jorge and Incanto’s Head Chef, Sergio Guzmán, have created a home delivery meal service, which

I Scream, You Scream – Healthy Ice Cream!

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ewly opened Vegan Paradice is an ice cream shop unlike any other, located in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle. This unique ice cream shop offers lactose-free ice cream and different delicious desserts that use no animal products in their creation.

All of the items on the menu are vegan and that includes such treats as: ice cream, sorbet, milkshakes, frappuccinos, freezies, sundaes, smoothies, bananas and strawberries covered with chocolate, ice cream sandwiches, ice cream tacos, cinnamon rolls, pastries and much more!

Some of the delectable ice cream flavours they offer include, toasted coconut, vanilla, strawberry, piñada (pineapple and coconut), chocolate with banana and nuts, mango, plum, soursop, coffee with almonds and amaranth, Choco-mint, banana with cinnamon, lemon pie with moringa and hemp, cereals (sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, peanuts, raisins and oatmeal). Try them all. Dairy free and delicious.

Mar, the ice cream maker, says her special ingredient is love and you can definitely taste it! Come and try this new and fresh option available in Banderas Bay. These ice cream and desserts are for everybody not just vegans!

This cute shop is opened daily from noon to 9:00 pm at Langosta #3, a half a block away from the traffic light in La Cruz

going towards the Marina. Look for them on Facebook and Instagram at Vegan Paradice.

they run on Monday’s when Incanto is closed. Incanto is also open for lunch and dinner until 11pm.

Information and online tickets

are available at www.IncantoVallarta.com. Hours are 9am -11:30pm Tues.- Sun. with all-day meal service. Happy Hour is 2-6pm.

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July 20 - 26, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

New daily flight links two Silicon Valleys

A Mexico Nets $4.33 Billion from Tax Break on Repatriated Money

T

he Mexican government received an additional 76 billion pesos ($4.33 billion) in revenue during the first half of the year thanks to a tax break on capital repatriated from abroad, President Enrique Peña Nieto said Friday.

“I have decided to extend the application of the decree until October,” he said in a speech during an event to mark the 70th anniversary of the Army National Bank.

“The favorable result this initiative has received is another

demonstration of confidence in our country,” the president said.

Under the terms of the decree, funds that are returned to Mexico and kept in the country for at least two years are taxed at a rate of 8 percent. The standard rates of corporate and individual incomes taxes are 30 percent and 35 percent, respectively.

To be eligible for the tax break, the money must go toward industrial plant, technology research and development or financial mechanisms to increase overall investment in productive assets.

Canadian-Mexican Wins Bidding for 6 OilProducing Areas in Mexico

T

he consortium created by Canada’s Sun God Energia and Mexico’s Jaguar Exploracion y Produccion de Hidrocarburos won the bidding on Wednesday for exploration and production (E&P) rights in six of the 10 onshore blocks included in Round 2 of petroleum auctions.

The auction, made possible by the energy industry reforms implemented by President Enrique Peña Nieto’s administration, drew six bidders, who made their offers for E&P rights individually or as part of a consortium.

All the blocks, with the exception of one area in Tabasco state’s Cuencas del Sureste region, are in the Burgos oil-producing area, which sprawls across the northeastern states of Nuevo Leon and Tamaulipas.

Sun God Energia de Mexico and Jaguar Exploracion y Produccion de Hidrocarburos won the E&P rights in five Burgos blocks, whose main expected reserves are of wet gas, and one in Tabasco, where the oil companies expect to find super light crude oil.

The consortium, in the majority of areas, offered the maximum additional royalty of 25 percent set by the Finance and Public Credit Secretariat, while the royalty rate in Tamaulipas was 45 percent.

The consortium created by Mexico’s Iberoamericana de Hidrocarburos and Servicios PJP4 de Mexico won the E&P rights for Area 1 in Burgos.

There were no bidders for three of the oil-producing areas being offered at the auction.

Original: laht.com

eroméxico launches daily service between Guadalajara and San Jose, California. A new airline connection between Guadalajara and San Jose, California, ought to further strengthen the former’s efforts to be recognized as Mexico’s Silicon Valley.

The July 1st inaugural flight of the new Aeroméxico route was given a water cannon salute upon arrival in California’s Silicon Valley, but the San José Mercury noted that a shower of microchips might have been more appropriate.

The daily service will take advantage of the fact that there are strong links between the two cities: more than 20,000 citizens of San Jose can trace their origins back to the Guadalajara region, said San

Jose councilman Johnny Khamis at a celebration yesterday for the new route.

And, he said, it will be good for the businesses that are working with the more than 600 technology companies, such as Intel, Oracle and Dell, that have offices in Mexi-

co’s tech capital.

California welcomed 8 million Mexican visitors in 2016, and three of every 10 Mexican passengers flying to the United States visit the state, reported the newspaper Milenio.

Original: MexicoNewsDaily

Hurricane Season in Mexico

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n the summer months, when temperatures reach their peak in the northern hemisphere, Mexico can be host to hurricanes: powerful storms which are born over the oceans, gather strength, and some eventually make landfall – most usually along Mexico’s Pacific coast, and less often along the shores of the Gulf of Mexico or Yucatán peninsula.

Hurricanes, like earthquakes, are unpredictable natural phenomena. More properly termed as Tropical Cyclones, a hurricane is a cyclone of highest intensity when its sustained-wind speed reaches at least 74 miles per hour. As the storm moves across the sea, it gathers energy and force which dissipate when the storm passes overland. Hurricanes can cause substantial damage to structures and property on or near the coast where it makes landfall, and its residues usually dump drenching rains on affected areas further inland.

Some years can pass-by with little or no hurricane activity; other years can bring a series of hurricanes in quick succession and of varying force.

The most notable hurricane to land on Mexico in recent years was Wilma, which struck the Yucatán peninsula in 2005 and caused widespread damage to Cancún and environs – Mexico’s principal tourist destination. Hurricane Patricia—described by meteorologists as the ‘strongest storm on record’—made landfall on Mexico’s Pacific coast in October 2015, but predictions about widespread

damage and casualties did not come to pass.

Sophisticated weather monitoring systems, communications technology, and modern building specifications now mitigate much of the human risk associated with the storms, although the strongest hurricanes can and do cause widespread damage to property, disrupt power and communications systems, and can severely affect transport systems.

Hurricanes can arrive in Mexico anytime from late spring to late autumn, although most years, hurricane-force storms will usually appear later in the summer or early autumn. It’s impossible to predict precisely how frequent the storms may be, how intense any particular storm may become in any given year, or how many will make landfall.

In Mexico, tropical and hurricane-force storms are most prevalent between July and October — the

hottest months of the year — with September and October usually the most active months. The incidence of hurricane-force storms diminish materially when temperatures cool down from November onward.

People who live and work in hurricane-affected areas are accustomed to annual storm activity and know how to prepare and respond. Contemporary hotel and home structures in Mexico are built to withstand storms and earthquakes; and while none can be said to be wholly-immune from nature’s forces, construction methods used in the most modern structures have significantly mitigated risks.

Homeowners with property situated in storm-prone areas along Mexico’s coasts can insure themselves against physical damage and loss. Fore-warning systems and procedures mean that locals and visitors can prepare and evacuate as necessary.

Original: Mexperience

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6 Reasons Why Mexico is Safer than You Think

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e occasionally receive questions from people asking about the current situation regarding safety and security in Mexico. To provide some perspective, listed here are six reasons which demonstrate how Mexico’s drug-related issues, which remain a body of work to address, do not make Mexico wholly unsafe.

Visitor numbers keep rising: The Bank of Mexico is responsible for collating and publishing foreign visitor statistics. The latest figures reveal that over 35 million foreign tourists arrived in Mexico in 2016, up 9% on the year before, continuing the rising trend over the last several years. Mexico is one of the world’s top-ten most visited nations in the world. Despite some of the negative news-flow, and especially that around the drug-related violence, people keep coming to Mexico.

Statistics from foreign consulate records consistently show that the overwhelming majority of visits to Mexico are trouble-free.

Mexico is evolving into one of the world’s most important economies. Years of sound economic governance, a welcoming economy with policies that encourage free trade and partnership (Mexico has tariff-free trade agreements with 46 countries around the world), coupled with shrewd investment, and relatively low debt (public and private) have created an attractive environment for investors and foreign companies. Mexico is today one of the world’s few ‘trillion-dollar’ economies, and mature nations are keen to work with Mexico.

No foreign resident exodus. In decades now long-past, when Mexico’s economy was less open and less stable, foreign residents would often flee home in the event of a peso crisis. Today, even with the drug-related flare-ups, no such exodus is taking place and, furthermore, we are seeing interest in relocation to Mexico rising substantially. Mexico’s government is expecting its expat communities to grow over the coming decade and beyond, and offers choices in facilitation of this, as welcoming foreign residents—who bring their energy and capital to Mexico—creates significant mutual benefits. If Mexico is a wholly dangerous place to be, why are existing foreign residents staying put and inquiries for relocation to Mexico growing?

The violence is mostly confined to drug-gangs. The research data show that the surge of homicides in Mexico over the last few years has come about through drug-gang members killing other drug-gang members. Tourists, business visitors, and foreign residents are not being targeted by the drug-gangs, and statistics from foreign consulates show that the overwhelming majority of visits to Mexico pass by trouble-free.

Mexico matters: Mexico is a good neighbor to the U.S. and is also one of the world’s most important nations—poised to play important roles in world affairs during this 21st century. Mexico and the U.S. share a very broad range of common interests and both nations work together on issues concerning trade and security in efforts to bring prosperity and well-being to the continent.

Mexico’s underlying story is strong and getting stronger. Notwithstanding the drug-related issues, the country’s macro-economics are in good shape; Mexico has substantial oil and gas reserves as well as considerable mineral and precious metal wealth; it’s also enacting structural reforms across key sectors with the intention to transition the country’s economy from being heavily dependent on oil and manufacturing into a multi-faceted, diverse and sustainable economic environment; foreign visitors keep coming back despite the negative news-flow; Mexico’s free trade agreements are bridges which cultivate understanding, trade and prosperity between the signatories of these accords.

Every day, tourists arrive in Mexico to rest themselves and enjoy its rich culture and heritage; business visitors arrive to trade and cultivate new friendships, and foreign residents living here are going about their lives normally, contributing positively in the Mexican communities they call home. These activities don’t make headlines, but they are indeed the real-life experiences of people visiting and living safely in Mexico.

Original: mexperience.com

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On the Road in Mexico Chuck Bolotin

Chuck.bolotin.writer@ bestplacesintheworldtoretire.com

Chuck Bolotin is the Vice President of Best Places in the World to Retire and he had never tried living outside of the US... until now.

Follow the journey of Chuck and his wife, as they take their large, overstuffed, white van from Los Angeles through Mexico for a year long road trip.

Tips and Observations About Driving Through Mexico, and the Release of Your “Inner Mexican”

Driving… in …

Mexico.

These three words are enough to strike fear into any news watching / Internet reading American. We are led to believe that we would either be kidnapped or just plain murdered within minutes of crossing the border. Even Mexicans who lived in the US advised us against driving in Mexico.

So, in order to add some firsthand experiences into the mix, and at the risk of contradicting common wisdom, I can at least report what we found.

Driving In General

One of the advantages of actually going to a place as opposed to hearing about it is that you find out that many of the stereotypes you had about it are not true.

As one fun example, you may remember the song “Low Rider”

by War and made very popular in a movie by Cheech and Chong.

If you don’t, here are the relevant lyrics: Low rider don’t use no gas now.

July 20 - 26, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Low rider don’t drive too fast.

I definitely saw low riders in LA, where I grew up, but I didn’t see any in Baja; not one. In fact, when driving, as opposed to seeing Tommy Chong, it seemed like everyone was Mario Andretti. On the highways, Mexicans drive very, very fast.

Driving Tips

Quite often, you will find yourself on a non-divided highway (no median; just some paint on asphalt separating you and oncoming traffic); one lane in your direction, one lane in the other, and close to zero shoulder.

Driving in front of you will be a truck or some other vehicle going slower than you would like to go with it’s left turn signal on, yet, you don’t see any place where he or she is going to turn left; there may not even be an intersecting road for 20 miles. What does it mean? It means that the driver is signaling you that it is safe for you to pass on his or her left. Is it? Your call. How do you know if, instead of signaling you that it’s safe to pass, a left turn signal means that the driver is planning to actually turn left, which would result in an ugly crash if you were in the process of passing at the same time? There’s no real answer to this, except for context.

Good luck, and have fun.

When you come to a 4-way stop, it doesn’t really mean, “stop”; it means, “slow down just enough to take a look at crossing traffic, and if no one is there, just go right through”. The only time anyone ever honked their horn at me in Baja was when I stopped… at a 4-way stop. I almost got rear-ended. By the way, this explains how, when I didn’t see the 4-way stop in Mexicali when we first crossed the border and blew right through it, no one even reacted. To them, I was just driving normally.

The only exception to the rolling 4-way stop is when there is a car actually coming from the right or left. Then, you slow down a little more and, if they got there first, you let them pass. Coming to a full stop in any situation seems to be optional, but may actually be dangerous because if someone is following too close to you and doesn’t expect your full stop, you could get rear-ended.

It’s generally best to keep some forward momentum.

There are lots of one-way streets. How will you identify them? Sometimes, there’s a tiny, obscure sign. Many times, there’s not. Just look for other little clues, like all the cars being parked in one

direction (although many times, this is not definitive), or, more definitively, two cars side by side coming directly towards you at 40 miles per hour with no place for you to go but backwards. This happened to me several times, more than once in front of a police officer. Everyone just shrugs it off and moves on.

Just find a place to back up or turn around.

If you see a car coming towards you on the other side of the highway with its emergency lights blinking, they’re most likely trying to tell you that there are cows or other livestock in the road up ahead.

Slow way down and look for farm animals. Then, after you see them, put on your emergency lights for a while as well, to warn drivers coming from the other direction.

This happens all the time. Here’s a portion of a conversation between my wife and me as we drove to Cabo San Lucas: Me: “It’s a really deserted road.”

Jet: “Yes; it’s just us and some cows…”

Me: “… that may make a cameo appearance every one in a while, just like in an Alfred Hitchcock movie.”

Jet: “Yes, and just to scare you.”

Funny as the horror movie analogy may seem, if you hit a cow at 50 miles per hour, you won’t be laughing and it won’t just scare you.

It could total your car or worse. Be mindful of crossing livestock!

In some very odd places, the left turn lane is off to… the right.

You pull in; wait for the light, and then cross traffic, hoping that everyone understands. They do, but you won’t.

Were we never stopped by banditos, held at gunpoint, carjacked, kidnapped or had our throats cut. Not once.

If you are like me, after being in Mexico for a while, you will see a change in how you drive. For me, it has released my “Inner Mexican.”

I love not really stopping at stop signs and pulling into traffic without too much decorum other than a friendly wave… after the fact.

Driving like this may horrify you, but personally, I like it.

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July 20 - 26, 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.

A woman on the forefront of Oaxaca’s handcraft innovation

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t is interesting to note that a number of women have been in the forefront of the rise and transformation of Oaxacan handcrafts, pottery in particular. The work of these women has been instrumental in keeping pottery making a traditional source of income, ironically by transforming what is made.

Santa Maria Atzompa is well known for its utilitarian and decorative pieces, which are marked with the use of a dark-green glaze, called loza verde.

This pottery used to be sold widely in Mexico and even into the United States, but as the glaze contains lead, it is now sold only locally. There is one exception to this, which is the making of chia pets, which were originally made as a novelty related to Easter.

Teodora Blanco Nuñez (19281980) began by making loza verde much like her mother and grandmother did, as this work has been traditionally dominated by women. Atzompa is near the state capital and Doña Teodora sold at the 20 de noviembre market there.

However, the decorative detail of her work stood out, catching the notice of a foreign visitor in the 1970s, who not only bought her entire lot, but became her first patron, encouraging her to continue experimenting.

This experimentation meant slowly moving away from loza verde to unglazed pieces. Most of these pieces are of natural beige, either monotone, or more commonly, with accents of reddish-orange (a clay slip) and/or smaller accents in paint.

Teodora eventually became famous for the creation of female figures with rich decorative detail, which have been playfully called “monas” (lit. female monkey),

“muñecas” (dolls) or just figures.

These dolls are a mix of several Atzompa traditions. The first that stands out is the use of small bits of clay laid over the main body to create raised decoration.

This technique is called “pastillaje,” a term that comes from the decoration of cakes. A number of her pieces are also allegorical, derived from the local tradition of having animal figures that do human activities such as playing musical instruments.

Her work was admired by many collectors including Nelson Rockafeller, who eventually obtained 175 of her pieces. She received numerous national and international awards and addressed the World Crafts Council. Her work made her rich by local standards and assured that even with the disappearance of loza verde, pottery would remain important in this Oaxacan town. However, she remained a “campesina” (rural, farm person) all of her life, spending her earnings on farm animals and the like.

Doña Teodora trained her oldest daughter take over, as per local custom, but it was her oldest son Luis Garcia Blanco who had the greater interest, taking over the main family compound on

Teodora Blanco Nuñez with “muneca” (credit Friends of Oaxaca Folk Art)

Maria Rojas de Garcia (Teodora’s daughter-in-law) applies a lizard onto the tail of a mermaid figure.

Avenida Libertad. A number of other family members have dedicated themselves to the craft, including some who have gone on to receive artistic training; however, none yet have achieved

the same level of recognition as the matriarch.

(Featured photograph courtesy of Friends of Oaxaca Folk Art, all others Alejandro Linares Garcia unless otherwise noted)

THANK YOU, VALLARTA!

With your help, more than 500 meters of beaches were cleaned on 06 May 2017.

On the same day, dozens of Intercam employees and their families throughout the Republic cleaned more than 10 kilometers of Mexico’s coastline.

Just one way Intercam Bank is responsibly caring for our planet.

CENTRO VALLARTA (322) 223-3080

MARINA VALLARTA (322) 209-0696

BUCERIAS/FLAMINGOS (329) 226-6162

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Two Expats in Mexico Paul Kurtzweil www.qroo.us

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

The Dollar Continues to Weaken Against the Mexican Peso

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ately, a few of my neighbors have been grumbling about the fact the U.S. dollar has lost some of its value in the last few months. It went from an all-time high of $21.93 pesos per dollar in January, to its current value of around $17.57 pesos per dollar.

That’s a significant decrease in value but it shouldn’t have come as a surprise to anyone who was paying attention and has, at a minimum, a basic understanding of economics.

The U.S. Election

I hate to open old wounds for any readers who are still a little touchy about the last American presidential election – but it’s relevant to this discussion, so I have to bring it up.

Pre-election

While campaigning for president, Donald Trump laid out a plan to bring jobs back from Mexico and to crack down on illegal immigration.

If he managed these two things, it would be a huge blow to the Mexican economy.

In case you were unaware of this, money sent from back to Mexico from workers –mostly in the U.S. – is the #1 source of foreign income for Mexico. It even surpasses the income that they make from crude oil exports.

The Pew Research Center estimates that there are approximately 5.6 million unauthorized Mexican immigrants living in the States. I’m sure you can see how a tougher enforcement policy might negatively affect money being sent back to Mexico.

Post-election

As soon as Donald Trump was elected, it caused investors to worry about the economic stability of Mexico and the peso plummeted. It continued to drop over the next couple of months as the world waited to see what would happen.

Investors are a skittish group – like a bevy of quail.

For those of us with bank accounts on both sides of the border, we took advantage of this opportunity to exchange dollars for pesos. By the way, those same pesos are worth a lot more nowa-

days. Now that pre-election rhetoric is being replaced with facts and deeds, foreign investors are regaining some of their confidence and are investing in Mexico again.

Much of the investment is in the recently privatized Mexican oil industry. In March of this year, a company from Italy announced the discovery of a significant oil reserve in the Gulf of Mexico off the coast of Tabasco. It’s the first oil discovery in Mexico by a private company since 1938.

Intentionally Devaluing the Dollar There is a current push from President Trump to devalue the dollar in order to be competitive in an international marketplace, increase exports, and bring manufacturing jobs back to the United States. It would be difficult — if not impossible — to achieve those goals if the dollar stays at its current value.

Exchange rates are subject to a wide range of factors and variables, making them virtually impossible to predict with any certainty.

Even the professional analysts are constantly revising their forecasts in response to new information.

If you look at some of their reports from December, you’ll see they were predicting we would have a 20:1 exchange rate right now. It just goes to show you that no one really knows what will happen.

So what does this mean to American expats? Well, it means that our dollar doesn’t go quite as far as it did a few months ago.

That’s the bad news. The good news is that the low cost of living still makes Mexico an attractive place to settle.

As for us, Linda and I are going to watch the exchange rate fluctuate from the comfort of two lounge chairs on the beach.

July 20 - 26, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Paradise

and Parenting Leza Warkentin

mommyinmexico.wordpress.com

I am the preschool coordinator and nursery teacher at the American School of Puerto Vallarta. I am also both unsurprised and not a bit sorry that this list of my favorites is mostly about places to eat. If you can live in Vallarta without appreciating some of the good eatin’ around here, you have to be at least half Vulcan.

O Canada

M

y home country, Canada, is celebrating 150 years of being a nation. I am a proud Canadian, even though I haven’t lived there for about 38% of my life (as an interesting aside, when I figured out this percentage in my head, it was 4am and my mind was idly paging through Interesting Facts About Myself. After I realized that I had spent well over a third of my life in Mexico without fully realizing it, I had a slight panic attack and couldn’t go back to sleep. It’s fun being me).

Now that I have lived in Mexico for so long, many people tell me that I am becoming more Mexican than Canadian, mostly because I can’t sit through a 3pm staff meeting without complaining that it’s my lunch time (one of my favorite parts of Mexico is being able to eat a solid meal right after work).

There is also the fact that I can joke around in Spanish now and people are usually laughing WITH me as opposed to AT my hideous grammar (I recognize that it is entirely possible that my friends have given up on me using Spanish verb tense in any useful fashion).

There is also my great aversion to swimming during the “winter” months, because it feels cold. Think about this: I am cold in a pool in Puerto Vallarta and I insist Vallarta has a winter season. I’m probably lucky I’m still allowed to keep my Canadian passport.

But there are some ways in which you can’t take the Canadian out of the girl, no matter how far south I fly. For example: I would apologize if you stepped on my foot on purpose. And I would mean it. I have given in to my punctuality. I will be the first one at your party by about an hour. Whatever.

I can help you put out appetizers.

I will wait in line, and I expect you to wait in line behind me.

I can kiss you hello and even

think it’s nice, but I’m gonna do the Canadian goodbye wave at the end of the party, ok? It’s a compromise between my affection for my friends and my desire for personal space.

My children are also Canadian, and they are both proud of and fascinated by their citizenship to a country where they have never actually lived. Their English is just as strong as their Spanish, although they don’t have that distinctive Canadian accent that throws the “eh” around and that does odd things to vowels when it gets chatty.

The Boy has hockey paraphernalia in his room, although he probably hasn’t watched an entire game in his life. They wear maple leaf shirts and put Canada stickers on most things they own. They love TimBits and all Cadbury chocolate products.

But, as they have mentioned to me many times, they want to experience the culture to the fullest, as in; they want to go there in winter. I have explained to them many times what it’s like to live in a place where you have to plug your car into your house every night, but they still think it’s something they need to try for themselves.

I’m so glad that they are proud of their second country. My wish for them is that they go to Canada in college and experience the northern life for a few years at least.

If they decide to stay in Canada after growing up in a tropical paradise, I’ll know that I’ve raised a couple of seriously tough human beings.

I’m proud of my very young, very cold, very beautiful home country. I may be far away, but being Canadian is very much a part of who I am. We are excited for the chance to celebrate 150 years with our fellow Canadians. We are honored to be part of a strong, courageous, and overwhelmingly kind population of people. Happy birthday, Canada!

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From Here Marcia Blondin

marciavallarta@gmail.com

C

asa Karma is constantly in flux. Start with an amazing intimate Resort/Boutique Hotel setting, throw an idea or two out there and start inviting people to make it happen and - voila! - another reason to visit Casa Karma has become a reality! Owner Georgia Darehshori has opened the air-conditioned living room of Casa Karma with its grand piano for “Open Piano Night” every Monday. The living room is just off The Bar (where folks flock every Bloody Sunday for refreshments/hangover cures) with floor to ceiling windows overlooking the setting sun in the Bay of Banderas. While various virtuosos come and go, Michael Lindner has become an integral part of Monday nights and has played at the Vatican; need I say one more word? Last Monday also featured Marco from Los Volcanes – a prodigy at 16 years old. The packed, SRO crowd enjoyed cocktails, of course, and tapas by Jim Lee of ‘Living Vallarta’ and an assortment of headliners from Act II Entertainment including “Trinity”, composed of the last three winners of Voice of Vallarta; a very special treat for me.

There were so many influential people, kind mentors, altruistic lovers of Vallarta, and movers and shakers in the audience, I cannot even start to mention names; sure as hell I will forget someone!

Let me just say this: it doesn’t matter what it is - if it’s happening at Casa Karma - just go; disappointment is not an option.

IMMIGRATION ALERT: I have lived in Vallarta for nearly 30 years, have jumped through three FM-3 hoops and finished my FM-2, became an Immigrant and have blithely NOT paid attention to new Immigration laws.

Guess what, people?

I came ‘this close’ to losing everything I hold dear in Mexico. Ignorance of the law is not a defense and I literally threw myself at the mercy of Delegado Regional en Puerto Vallarta, Senor Ezechiel Alvarez Gudino, head of Immigration.

Anyone who carries an FM-3, FM-2, Immigrant Card stating in two languages you are a Permanent Resident of Mexico hear this: NOT ANY MORE. The papers are worthless and are NOT LEGAL DOCUMENTS. And! If you have a proper, new Permanent Resident card and move, get married/divorced, change jobs, etc., you have 90 days to tell Immigration what the changes are.

And, if you don’t, there are multas (fines) adding up in the background.

So, take a day and your papers to Immigration from 9 to 1, Monday to Friday, and check your status. Oh, and do this yourself in person.

DO NOT HIRE SOMEONE ELSE. If you are not fluent in

Spanish, by all means, take a friend who is. I will have more on this extremely important aspect of our lives next week.

The Vallarta Garden Club Meet(ing) and Greet was held last week at Babel Bar for the first time.

What a lovely and fitting place for the Garden Club to get together – this oasis of quiet places to sit and eat or get a margarita handed to you while sprawled in a hammock (they are scattered throughout this city/jungle eatery on the cusp of downtown Vallarta).

Located on the Isla Cuale just past Le Bistro from Insurgentes and beside the swinging bridge off Aquiles Serdan – it is walking distance from everywhere!

New ownership a few months ago has spruced up the restaurant/bar space but it retains a comfortable - come as you are and spend the afternoon - feel to it.

For those who want a change from the beach and the attendant sandiness, check out Babel Bar. Incidentally, The Second Annual Cheryl’s Shoebox Summer Bash will be held at Babel Bar on August 6. Last year was a super great party; let’s do it again!

Jovany Jara – the go-to-guy in Vallarta for vintage clothes, jewelry and other fabulous blast-from-the-past goodies, is having another of his amazing estate sales.

This one will be at Horizon Residences with Open Houses Friday and Saturday, July 28 and 29 but contact Jovany and get in early by appointment starting Monday the 24th.

From what I have heard, the selection is huge and diverse with beautiful collectables and useful things like step ladders.

See Jovany’s ad in this issue for more information.

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

My Fitness Journey Katy Saunders

tksaund@gmail.com

My name is Katy Saunders, I’m a certified personal trainer. My journey to become healthy and fit has been nothing less than an amazing life changing journey. I want to share with you that it is never too late to begin living a life of health, infinite happiness and well-being; just commit to starting. Remember, stay healthy, stay happy, stay fit!

The Wall Sit

W

hat’s a wall sit? It’s just that, sitting with your back against a wall.

How can it benefit my routine? It’s a great isometric and postural exercise. For a simple go-to on a day you want to get in a workout at home or the office, is easy, all you need is a wall. Start by standing with your back facing the wall, your feet should be shoulder width apart and approximately one and a half ft. distance, then lean back and bend your knees to 90 degrees until you’re sitting. Align your back and shoulders upright against the surface of the wall and hold there for up to one minute or longer if you can. I like to hold for three minutes at a time.

The nice thing about the wall sit is that your upper body is resting, so you can do a biceps curl while doing your wall sit, but lets keep it simple for right now. Targeting the muscles isometrically, means that they are working while in a ‘hold’ position, but still actively working none the less.

If you’re just starting out, find this exercise difficult, or like some variation, using an exercise ball placed between the wall and the small (the natural curve) of your back, slowly lower into a squat (or seated) position or with your legs bending to 90 degrees until parallel with the floor and slowly return to standing.

Repeat 15 times for 2 sets and include it in your routine as a lower body leg exercise.

If you prefer to work your hamstring/glute muscles you can do so as well. Instead of slowly lowering into the position, do the opposite.

Move down for a 1 second count and slowly, for a 3 seconds count, come up again. This will work the back of the thigh and buttocks more!

If you’re more advanced and want to make your wall sits more challenging, try doing a biceps curl while in the seated position or an overhead press using light hand weights. With

the weights, start from the shoulders and press up over your head extending your arms up straight. For stronger legs, use only one foot to sit while keeping the other off the ground and alternate with the other foot.

This is an excellent postural exercise. If have shoulders or back and want better posture, and if you’re spending lots of time hunched over a desk, try this: While in the sitting position bring your hands together in front of your chest and raise them above your head to touch the wall, slide your arms down along the wall to your hips and then up again.

Repeat 10 times for 1-2 sets every day. Look at it this way, you’re benefiting from resistance exercise and improving your posture.

If you think you need extra motivation and want to do more wall-sits in a group fitness class, try Orson at Orssfit on Basillo Badillo for some classes or for ladies at their location in Marina Vallarta. For one-on-one classes, Jorge from Yoga Vallarta offers private training sessions.

Remember Fit followers, I love hearing your comments and getting feedback from you. Email me at: tksaund@gmail.com. Be healthy! Be happy, Be fit! Tune in next week for more..

Featured Property of the Week

Quaint home with expansive garden and pool CASA MEDINA La Cruz de Huanacaxtle 2 bed, 2 bath, 2,130sf Asking $339,000usd

S

tep through the exotic door frame and into your piece of paradise!

Tastefully designed singlestory home with large yard and gardens, elegant free-form pool and rock fountain. Great master bathroom with jacuzzi-tub and natural light.

This home offers luxurious areas to enjoy, both indoors and outdoors in this private, fully walled property. Located in a development corridor (CUC) permitting up to six levels of

construction, this lot is spacious enough to expand the existing home into a stunning hacienda, or build up!

The area features great walkability, just a few blocks to the two marina access points, market and the town plaza.

Designed to capture perfect indoor/ outdoor living, with floor to ceiling windows, cantera fountain patio and plenty of light. A must-see opportunity. b o a r d w a l k r e a l t y p v. c o m / properties/casa-medina/

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PRIMARY CARE SPECIALISTS HOSPITALS LABORATORIES DIAGNOSTIC CENTERS OUT-PATIENT FACILITIES AND PHARMACIES

Lake Medical Group Avenida Los Tules 116, Puerto Vallarta Carretera Hidalgo 224, Ajijic

Tel 01 800 681 9396 / 322 293 1553 www.lakemedicalgroup.com

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July 20 - 26, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Evidence that Animals Feel and Have Emotions

By Clare Leach

T

he debate has raged on in the scientific community for years about whether animals, especially dogs and cats, have real emotion. In the past, most studies were done post death to see if they could test brains of dogs particularly to see if they feel. That yielded little usable results.

Gregory Burns, a professor of neuroeconomics at Emory University in Atlanta Georgia, says that dogs use the same area of the brain as humans to feel and that dogs have emotions just like people including, joy, love, excitement, fear, loneliness, sadness etc.

Burns’ research is the result of two years of MRI scans on dogs who are not sedated but trained to sit perfectly still in the machine.

The results show that dogs use the cuadate necleus part of the brain to respond to humans they know. Burns says this shows that dogs have a level of sentience of feeling and understanding comparable to that of a human child. This does not come as a surprise to dog and cat owners who observe feelings in their own pets.

Dogs and cats communicate with their owners and most owners close to their pets will tell you exactly that. We, as humans have historically assumed that lack of speech is proof that animals are “dumb and incapable of true feelings.”

That notion is luckily becoming as outmoded as the world is flat.

Current research through observation and MRI’s and other tests prove that animals have emotions and speach.

Now science knows that evolutionary biology, cognitive ethology (study of animal minds) and social neuroscience support the view that numerous and diverse animals have emotional lives.

Why is this important to our community of Puerto Vallarta?

Because we have a large population of homeless and abandoned dogs and cats that cannot take care of themselves and as compassionate people, we have a duty to help the suffering.

Our ability to help is what makes us human. Would you walk past a injured or abandoned child?

The situation here in Puerto Vallarta has improved over the last twenty years but so much still needs to be done. Homeless animals are everybody’s business. As a community we are only as strong as we treat and take care of our most vulnerable members, the poor,

the children, elderly and yes, animals.

I see many families with pets on leashes being loved and cherished but I also see dogs being kicked, rocks thrown at them and left to with little thought to the immense suffering as well as fear and loneliness.

Awareness is increasing but the suffering continues. Recently I was on a visit to the SPCA de PV Sanctuary with a friend. A beautiful young shiny coated dog named Shiloh was on the lap of a volunteer who was stroking her gently and talking to her in soothing tones.

Shiloh barely conscious had been brought to the sanctuary in a wheel

barrow. She had been left on a roof top to bake in the sun until it literally fried her brain. Despite all efforts to save her, Shiloh had to be put to sleep.

At least she died in someone’s arms wrapped around her instead of alone. It still makes me tear up to remember that sweet dog and her needless death.

Please next time you see a homeless animal, stop and look at their pleading eyes and eager expression and help! The SPCA de PV and many other organizations work tirelessly to find homes for our abandoned and abused animals with success, but it takes money,

ADORABLE DOG IN THE SPOTLIGHT...GOLDIE

by Janice Gonzalez

G

oldie is a spirted two-year-old Labrador mix just a bit over 37 pounds.

This girl has loads of energy and needs open spaces where she can run and drain her energy. She would be ideal for a physically active family or a home with plenty

of room to safely roam and run around.

Once she has expended all that energy she is then ready to snuggle down with her humans. We think she would do great with active teenagers. Goldie is very food motivated so you shouldn’t have trouble with her training.

She is fine with most other dogs but

can be selective when choosing her friends. Goldie is not a fan of felines, however.

Goldie has been spayed, dewormed and vaccinated.

If you are looking for a terrific companion animal for hiking and jogging, this girl is perfect. Contact us at spcapv@gmail.com for an application.

time, vet care and spay and neuter clinics and above all, love.

Here is some info to keep in your phone: Instituto de Proteccion Animal 322 293 3690 (This is a new police unit in Puerto Vallarta.

Dial 066 if you have a ‘pet attack’ emergency You can email these groups as well and they respond quickly. spcapv@gmail.com friendsofpvanimals.com info@purrproject.com clare23leach@gmail.com for the business community to support the SPCA de PV. Have a heart, save a life, together we can make a difference.

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July 20 - 26, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Guadalajara’s sophisticated neighbour, Tlaquepaque

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any of us who live here year round take time during the hot and humid summer months to explore the interior of Mexico. Puerto Vallarta is a four-hour drive from Mexico’s second largest city of Guadalajara. A population of well over seven million, this city and its surrounding suburbs are the ‘silicon valley’ of Mexico. But there are pockets throughout the city with impressive historic buildings and cultural significance in the creation of this beautiful country.

One such place is Tlaquepaque.

Its mansions and gentile style date back to the 19th century, when Tlaquepaque was one of the principal stops en route to Mexico City. It also holds an important place in Mexico’s history: The Plan de Iguala, which set forth the foundation for Mexican Independence from Spain, was signed at the house on the corner of Independencia and Contreras Medellin Streets.

Still renowned for its pottery and glass blowing studios, Tlaquepaque has grown from a small colonial village on the edge of Guadalajara into a trendy neighbourhood accessorized with chic arts and crafts boutiques, posh galleries and upscale restaurants.

Often combined with a trip to its neighbouring town, Tonala, a few days here is not only refreshing from the beach heat but a look into the extraordinary quality and quantity of arts and crafts found across the country.

Travel down Calle Independencia, a converted pedestrian only avenue replete with art galleries, shops and cafes. Step inside to view some of the most fabulous examples of Mexican art and craft the country has to offer including galleries of renowned sculpture Bustamante.

From traditional textiles to totally modern and unique furniture, the galleries are not for the flint. Prices in Tlaquepaque reflect the high level of quality you can be assured of when shopping along the Gallery Row. Branch off into the side streets to find some artist direct pieces and prices.

There are many excellent, renowned restaurants to choose from. Converted haciendas, formerly palatial homes now serve some of Mexico’s most traditional cuisine. The El Patio restaurant lures in diners with the promise of their all-female mariachi band while the traditional menu offers up savoury Mexican treats. Crunchy chiliquilies and café Olla for breakfast or the strikingly proud Chile en Nogada for lunch with a fresh fruit water will send you on your way.

What to Do: Grab a drink, obviously Stop by for a drink at the “El Parian”, which is famous for being the largest cantina in Latin America.

The daily mariachi shows and live entertainment are great amusement and even better is if you can watch the local football team Chivas win a game on the myriad of tv’s. That’s an introduction to soccer, sorry football fandom.

Buy new tiles Check out Cantú, which is located centrally and just round the corner from the Ceramic Museum.

Their tiles are stunning and made in the traditional method, meaning they’re as authentic and high quality as ever.

Even if you don’t want to buy in bulk, swing by and admire the beautiful patterned tiles and mosaics.

One tequila, two tequila…

If tiles aren’t your bag, why not stop by Nuestros Dulces and pick up a souvenir equally as evocative of Mexico: tequila.

This store has one of the widest selections of tequila you could wish for outside of, well, Tequila itself.

They have a selection of over 1000 tequilas from a variety of different brands, meaning that there is something for everyone – from tequila connoisseurs to newbies.

Take a nighttime tour of El Refugio For something a little out of the ordinary and for the Spanish speakers amongst you, take part in a nighttime tour of the Centro Cultural El Refugio.

The tours explore the spookiest legends of the area and the building.

Even the most skeptical will leave as believers.

Where to stay: Casa Harmonia, with its tall ceilings, tasteful Mexican flair and use of love and life as themes for each room, does not disappoint.

With the afternoon sun shining through the centre of this eight-room boutique hotel, the pool is basked in a warm light, the rooms all beckoned with cozy comfort and Mexican textiles.

Rooms on the main floor are cool and offer respite from the Mexican heat with their thick adobe walls.

Rooms on the second floor look down to the colourful pool and garden area while the wrap-around patio with its comfortable loungers encourages settling down and diving back into your novel. Located just two blocks from the centre of Tlaquepaque, this is a great spot to set down for a couple days while you explore.

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July 20 - 26, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Riviera Nayarit Recieves Blue Flag Certifications

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laya Nuevo Vallarta North, the Marina Riviera Nayarit y the Santa María del Oro Lagoon in Nayarit all obtained the Blue Flag certification for the fifth, third and second consecutive years, respectively, for the 20172018 season.

The Blue Flag is awarded by Pronatura México, based on protocols established by Europe’s Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE).

The symbolic raising of the flag for the three destinations took place on Wednesday, July 12, at the Santa María del Oro Lagoon, convened by the Secretary for

Environment and Rural Affairs, or Sederma, by its acronym in Spanish.

Rebeca Sánchez Mijangos, who represents Pronatura México and heads the Blue Flag program, together with Norma Fernández Molina, Tourism Secretary for the State of Nayarit, raised the corresponding flag for this “Enchanted Lagoon” before dozens of people who came to witness the event, as well as representatives from the three levels of government.

Rebeca Sánchez Mijangos acknowledged the work that went into the coordination and all the labor invested over the span of a

year to comply with the 33 parameters established by the FEE, which since 1987 has been giving their recognition to the beaches, marinas and shops that follow the norms regarding water quality, safety, basic services rendered and sustainability.

Meanwhile, Norma Fernández Molina, who was there representing Roberto Sandoval Castañeda, Governor of the State of Nayarit, expressed their gratitude and highlighted the work done by the directors, delegates, secretaries, the Riviera Nayarit Convention and Visitors Bureau, the civil societies and the tourism service providers

for being part of the “chain” that makes this type of certifications possible.

In order to obtain this recognition the coordinated participation of several entities was key, including Federal Maritime and Land Zones (Zofemat, by its acronym in Spanish), Clean Beaches, Ecology, Public Services, Audits, Public Safety, Tourism and Civil Defense.

The Blue Flag certification is valid for one year, which means that at the end of the summer season the different beaches and their conditions are subject once again to a thorough evaluation.

The Facts:

The first Blue Flag in Nayarit was awarded to Playa Nuevo Vallarta North in 2013, which has maintained its certification since then.

The Marina Riviera Nayarit in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle obtained its Blue Flag in 2015, and was the first of its kind to receive this international distinction.

The Santa María del Oro Lagoon raised its First Blue Flag in August 2016.

5th Playa Platanitos Sea Turtle Festival

T

his year’s festival is bigger than ever. In addition to the usual activities in support of the environment there will also be a volleyball tournament, a bicycle circuit and a swimming competition.

It’s turtle nesting and liberation season and Playa Platanitos, a coastal town in the Riviera Nayarit, is preparing for its 5th Sea Turtle Festival, to be held July 22 and 23, 2017.

The event is focused on promoting the care of the environment and the conservation of the sea turtle, as well as driving tourism to a community of less than 100 inhabitants, most of whom are dedicated to commerce, fishing and sustainable tourism.

Five years after its inception, this effort by the community and the Playa Platanitos Eco Commi-

ttee, presided by Eduardo Chávez, has resulted in a festival growing in scope and popularity. Part of its success lies in the fact that it takes place right at the start of summer vacation, which means visitors are free to enjoy its varied offer of sports, cultural and artistic activities.

This year, the 5th Sea Turtle Festival is bigger than ever, as in addition to the usual activities—including an Environmental Tourism Fair—there will also be a volleyball tournament, a bicycle circuit and a swimming competition. And, following tradition, there will be a beauty pageant to select the new Beauty Ambassador.

However, what makes this festival such a standout are its practices in favor of Mother Nature, such as last year’s creation of

the Hummingbird Garden and, of course, the liberation of sea turtle hatchings, which continues to be one of the main attractions of this family event that spurs environmental awareness, especially in children.

According to Lulú Santana, founder of the festival and part of the organizing committee, Playa Platanitos wants to be more than just a “sun and sand” destination and is working towards also being a sustainable destination, a place where respect for nature is front and center.

“People have come to believe in us over the years,” she added.

“Combining tourism with conservation and the environment is a given, because we want Playa Platanitos to grow and develop, but we want it to happen in an orderly and regu-

lated fashion.” She also stated the purpose of the festival is to attract more tourists to Playa Platanitos while sharing the message that it’s better to protect the sea turtle and enjoy sustainable tourism than it is to commercialize its products in return for an economic benefit.

The Convention and Visitors Bureau is extending an open invitation to the general public to visit Playa Platanitos and enjoy the festival. The opening ceremonies

take place on Saturday July 22 at 5:30 p.m. on the dot and it ends at 7 p.m. on Sunday. All of the events are free of charge.

For more information about the V Sea Turtle Festival visit their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ Festival-tortuga-marina-playa-platanitos-374517209416601/ Call 311 230 91 34 or email playa_platanitos_ecologico@ hotmail.com

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mode. There are $100,000 pesos in prizes that will be distributed among the winners of the Open Category (male and female), while the Amateur category will be awarded with products from the sponsors. Activities for everyone include volleyball tournaments, beer pong, along with concerts and DJ’s including performances with Mi Banda El Mexicano by Casimiro Zamudio; Rubén Albarrán DJ Set (Café Tacvba), The Northern Vikings, The Minions, DJ Bola Pirata and DJ Funky Kong and more. All of the activities are free. I know our Nayarit surfers will come out on top! Suerte!

For more information, visit the Facebook pages: AMS San Pancho and Niijima Pro Surf.

The Corona Sunset Fest is a Mexican concept that has become worldwide with five locations in

refrigerators with the Corona logo.

The Corona Girls are out holding up signs for the event. Many townfolk are happy about this event, as it will create needed summer revenue for San Pancho businesses.

However, there are also other concerns about the sewer and water issues.

This time of the year water becomes scarce. With so many people coming this may be an issue.

Also, the new sewer for San Pancho is not connected. Although all of the pipes have been installed under the streets they have not been able to hook up to the water treatment plant across the highway, and according to my anonymous source, the raw sewage continues to go straight into the estuary which has caused a terrible overgrowth of water lettuce which has choked the estuary by sucking up all of the oxygen.

Apparently, all of this falls into the hands of the Banderas Bay Municipality and Oromapas to connect the new treatment plant that is supposedly ready to go. I am hoping that Corona understands the extent of the situation, as they have told folks that everything is under control. I can only hope they are bringing in a lot of port-a-potties! We shall see. To find out more about the Corona Sunset Fest and ticket prices go to www.coronasunsets.com.mx .

Thanks for tuning in this week. Enjoy the summer and pray for more rain! Check out our FB page at RivieraNayaritFun and give us a LIKE. Create a super week…

AHO!

Fun on the Riviera Nayarit Cat Morgan www.rivieranayaritfun.com Cat@RivieraNayaritFun.com Cat Morgan is owner of RivieraNayaritFun.com and also NewEnergyConsciousness.com If you have any questions, comments or Riviera Nayarit news please contact her at Cat@CatMorgan.me

H

ey Everybody! We are already in mid July! It seems like the older I become the faster time flies by! Before we know it, our friends from Canada and the US will be back for the winter months.

For a helpful reminder: As you clear your childrens grand childrens closets, please keep in mind the children in Mexico. Gently used clothing and gifts for Christmas are always needed. You may have read one of my articles before or perhaps viewed on Facebook about Nana’s House. Colin Maruk (owner of Breaker’s Beach Bar in Bucerias) and Estelle Nuebling have been working with this orphanage for two years now, starting when there were twenty-three children who needed aid. Today, that number has risen to twenty-nine.

There have been good changes for Nana’s House as the state has given them land to provide a larger facility for housing. These children have been through so much abuse and heartache. At Nana’s House they are safe; returning to school and some have graduated and gone on to university. Estelle says, “Thank God for Mary Jo and her husband who not only opened their hearts but their home to these children. If you can find a bit of room in your luggage to bring gently used clothing it would be greatly appreciated.”

Here are the sizes that are needed. Girls: 3 girls size 10, 3 girls size 12, teen girls medium and large tops, pants size 5, 7, 9, and ladies 12. Boys: 4 small boys six years old * suggest size 7 or 8, 2 eight year old boys suggest size 10, 1 nine year old boy size 10/12, teen boys are 2 size medium, 2 size large. All of the items can be dropped off at Breaker’s Beach Bar in Bucerias. You may also contact Estelle at: estelle@nuebling.us.

Thank you!

THIS WEEKEND IN SAN PANCHO! San Pancho, also known as the “cultural center” of the Riviera Nayarit is really kicking it up a notch this weekend with two huge events, The Corona Sunset Fest and NIIJIMA AMS Open Surfing Contest 2017 presented by Riviera Nayarit.

The surfing contest takes place on the main beach of San Pancho and will be held July 21 to the 23, open to all ages and nationalities. It is endorsed by the Mexican Federation of Surfing and supported by the Surfing Association and state of Nayarit. The event will begin on Thursday, July 20 at 7:00 p.m. with an opening ceremony in which elements of the Wixárica culture will be included and will end on Sunday July 23.

The categories are: Men’s Open, Women’s Open and City Boys (Amateur) in Short Board

Mexico, and other locations such as like England, China, Italy, and Dubai. These sunset inspired beach festivals are fun-filled with music, activities, food and fireworks lighting up the night sky beginning on July 22 in San Pancho. This is only for adults 18 years and older with proper identification and minors may not enter.

There is an expected 5000 people to attend the events over the weekend.

They are creating a huge elaborate stage and tents along the playa.

The soccer field is being turned into the camp ground. The town’s people are painting and sprucing up the town and their businesses for the event. I have heard from my San Pancho sources that the hotels are filled. Corona has given restaurants new plastic corona chairs and flashy new stand up glass door

art & culture

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A Guide to Puerto Vallarta’s Sculptures – Part Two to the other, there is a plethora of entertaining things to do, especially if you enjoy experiencing the culture, indulging in the arts and relishing in the natural beauty that

surrounds the Mexican beach town.

Of course you will want to visit the downtown area of Puerto Vallarta to experience the magic of the Malecón, a mile long board-

“Triton and Mermaid” by Carlos Espino (1990) Little is known about this bronze sculpture, aside from the fact that its name was changed by local authorities upon its inauguration. “Triton and Mermaid” is and always was the intended name by the artist, however many in Vallarta refer to it as the “Neptune and Nereid” statue. The image of Triton, son of the sea God Poseidon and sea Goddess Amphitrite, as he reaches out to a mermaid is undeniably one of the most fitting statues in Puerto Vallarta, a city where the wonders of the ocean meet with the beauty of the land in a majestic and romantic rendezvous.

“The Roundabout of the Sea”

by Alejandro Colunga (1996) This magnificent and interactive statue has visitors from all over sticking around for a quick rest and ideal photo op.

The bronze collection of eight high-backed chairs, features a series of marine-like creatures and other sea elements that provide both seating and inspiration to many a passerby.

The mixture of surrealism and fantasy has become a favorite of tourists who take the time to appreciate Colunga’s work.

The nostalgic feel and friendly vibes that exude from the resort town of Puerto Vallarta make it the perfect place for the vacation of a lifetime. From one end of the city

walk that hugs the beautiful coastal town. Use this guide to Puerto Vallarta’s sculptures and learn a little about the history and mysticism of some of Puerto Vallarta’s

most coveted treasures.

For the complete list, begin with A Guide to Puerto Vallarta’s Sculptures – Part 1 published in last week’s Vallarta Tribune.

“The Boy on the Seahorse” by Rafael Zamarripa Castañeda (1976)

“Searching for Reason” by Sergio Bustamante (2000) When strolling along the Malecón, in downtown Puerto Vallarta, you’ll be sure to notice this inviting piece of artwork due to the crowds of people who climb up its ladder for the perfect photo op. This monumental sculpture, featuring three curious figures climbing a ladder into the heavens, towers over the others at almost 60 feet high. Bustamante, a famous Mexican artist, channeled his inspiration for the piece from Nobel Peace Prize winner, Bertrand Russell, who often wrote about the convictions of man. “Searching for Reason” represents man’s misguided approach to protecting life on earth through wars, atomic bombs, fear and prejudice.

This statue, a replica of the original, holds a special place in the hearts of the people of Puerto Vallarta because it was the first to be placed on the old Malecón years ago.

The original statue, located at Las Pilitas, near Los Muertos Beach, was knocked over by a strong tropical storm that wreaked havoc in the area. As requested, Zamarripa created a grander version that was moved to the Malecón in 1976.

As one of the most representative figures in Puerto Vallarta, citizens were pleased when the original was returned to its place, only to be swept away again by Hurricane Kenna in 2002.

It would appear that “The Boy on the Seahorse” likes to ride the waves and then return to its glory

Marking the undeniable friendship between the people Puerto Vallarta and Santa Barbara CA, this statue was erected in recognition of the positive exchange that the citizens of the two sisters cities have embarked upon over the years. A similar Friendship Fountain is situated in Santa Barbara. The idea behind the statue lies in an Chumash Indian myth in which indians cross over a rainbow bridge to get to the mainland. Those who look down fall into the water and the Earth goddess turns them into dolphins to prevent them from drowning. The Chumash people consider dolphins to be mankind’s brothers, a true representation of friendship.

on the shores of Puerto Vallarta, where it can now be seen in two places, the original at Las Pilitas,

on the south side of town, and the larger version on the Malecón in downtown Vallarta.

“The Friendship Fountain” by James “Bud” Bottoms and Octavio Gonzalez Gutierrez (1987)

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Recorrido por las Esculturas de Puerto Vallarta­Parte 2 Desde un extremo a otro de la ciudad encontrarás una multitud de entretenidas actividades para hacer, sobre todo si te gusta experimentar la cultura y el arte, y disfrutar de la belleza natural

que rodea esta ciudad costera mexicana.

Te animamos a que visites el centro de la ciudad de Puerto Vallarta y experimentes la magia del Malecón, un paseo marí-

“Tritón y Sirena” por Carlos Espino (1990) Poco se sabe acerca de esta escultura de bronce, aparte del hecho de que su nombre fue cambiado por las autoridades locales desde su inauguración. “Tritón y Sirena” es y siempre fue el nombre pretendido por el artista, sin embargo muchos en Vallarta se refieren a él como la estatua “Neptuno y Nereida”. La imagen de Tritón, hijo del dios del mar Poseidón y de la diosa del mar Anfítrite tratando de alcanzar a una sirena, es sin duda una de las estatuas más adecuadas en Puerto Vallarta, una ciudad donde las maravillas del océano se encuentran con las bellezas de la tierra en un encuentro majestuoso y romántico.

“La Rotonda del Mar” por Alejandro Colunga (1996) Esta magnífica e interactiva estatua está siempre rodeada de visitantes en búsqueda de un descanso o una divertida foto. La colección de bronce de ocho sillas de respaldo alto cuenta con una serie de criaturas marinas y otros elementos de mar que proporcionan comodidad e inspiración a muchos transeúnte. La mezcla de surrealismo y fantasía la ha convertido en una las estatuas favoritas de los turistas, que se toman el tiempo para apreciar la obra de Colunga.

El toque nostálgico y ambiente amistoso que irradia la ciudad turística de Puerto Vallarta en México, lo convierten en el lugar perfecto para unas vacaciones únicas.

“En Busca de la Razón” por Sergio Bustamante (2000) Al pasear por el Malecón, en el centro de Puerto Vallarta, notarás esta acogedora pieza de arte debido a la multitud de personas que suben su escalera para una perfecta sesión de fotos. Esta escultura monumental muestra tres curiosos personajes que suben una escalera al cielo, que se eleva a 9 metros de altura. Bustamante, un famoso artista mexicano, ha encontrado inspiración para esta obra del ganador del Premio Nobel de la Paz, Bertrand Russell, que escribió a menudo sobre las convicciones del hombre. “En Busca de la Razón” representa el erróneo planteamiento del hombre para proteger la vida en la tierra a través de guerras, bombas atómicas, miedo y prejuicios.

Esta estatua, una réplica de la original, tiene un lugar especial en los corazones de la gente de Puerto Vallarta, ya que fue la primer estatua colocada en el antiguo Malecón. La estatua original, ubicada en Las Pilitas cerca de la Playa de los Muertos, fue arrastrada por una fuerte tormenta tropical que causó estragos en la zona. Conforme a lo solicitado, Zamarripa creó una versión más grande que fue trasladada al Malecón en 1976. Como una de las figuras más representativas en Puerto Vallarta, los ciudadanos se mostraron complacidos cuando el original fue devuelto a su lugar, sólo para ser arrastrado nuevamente por el huracán Kenna en 2002. Al parecer, al niño en el Caballito de Mar le gusta montar las olas y para luego regresar glorioso a las costas de Puerto

Marcando la innegable amistad entre el pueblo de Puerto Vallarta y Santa Bárbara CA, esta estatua fue construida en reconocimiento al intercambio positivo entre las dos ciudades hermanas, y una Fuente de la Amistad similar se encuentra en Santa Bárbara.

La idea detrás de la estatua se encuentra en un mito de los indios Chumash, donde al cruzar el puente de arco iris para llegar a tierra firme, los indios que miraban hacia abajo caían al mar y para evitar que se ahoguen la diosa de la Tierra los convertía en delfines.

El pueblo Chumash considera a los delfines como los hermanos de la humanidad.

timo de casi dos kilómetros que abraza a la hermosa ciudad costera. Disfruta de este recorrido por las esculturas de Puerto Vallarta y aprende un poco sobre la historia y la mística de algunos

de los tesoros más codiciados de Puerto Vallarta. Para conocer la lista completa de obras, te recomendamos que comiences con el Recorrido por las Esculturas de Puerto Vallarta ­Parte 1 publicado en el Vallarta Tribune la semana pesada.

“El Caballito de Mar” por Rafael Zamarripa (1976)

Vallarta. Ahora se puede disfrutar de esta estatua en dos lugares, el original de Las Pilitas en el sur

lado de la ciudad y la versión más grande en el Malecón del centro de Vallarta.

“La Fuente de la Amistad” por James “Bud” Bottoms y Octavio González Gutiérrez (1987)

VALLARTA SHOPPING AND SERVICES FABFABRICFELLOWS Aprons - Pillows Masks - Cooling Ties Three Hens & A Rooster Market V. Carranza 466 Saturdays 9 to 1 Contact Bill Kelly at

unonumerobomb@gmail.com

Sherry Vallarta HOME DE’COR

Personal Shopper

Buy & Sell ~ Anything & Everything

sherryvallarta@yahoo.com 044 322 137 7063 Pandamonia Boutique New! Beach-Themed Pillows Summer Special on Wine Bags Women’s Plus-Size Tops & Tunics

Three Hens & A Rooster Market V. Carranza 466 Saturdays 9 to 1 Contact Pat Thunherst Wagner at ptwagner@comcast.net

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!

Hand-made Mexican Tiles, Talavera, Saltillo, Mosaico

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

PUERTO VALLARTA Three Hens and a Rooster Market Saturday 9 – 1pm Year round at Venustiano Carranza 466 in Emiliano Zapata Marsol Friday Market by the Pier Friday 9:30 – 1:30 pm Year round at Marsol Hotel Lobby in Old Town.

SAN PANCHO Mercado del Sol in San Pancho at the Plaza del Sol Tuesdays 10-2pm LA PEÑITA Mercado is every Thursday all year!

Marsol Friday Market by the Pier Three Hens & A Rooster Market on Saturdays

mexicasupplement@gmail.com

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! July 17 – August 11 La Patrona Atlética Madrid Summer Camp will be holding a Summer Camp - San Pancho Campus.

This will include four weeks of training for kids and teens. For more information call 044 (322) 146 7714 or 01 (322) 297 2334 ext. 106.

July 21-23 Abierto Mexicano de Surf (AMS – Mexican Surf Open)

Mexicans and foreigners, professionals and amateurs: all surfers are invited to participate in this competition, which offers 100 thousand pesos in prizes and will take place in San Pancho.

July 22 Corona Sunsets San Pancho Riviera Nayarit This spectacular Sunset Corona concert returns to the Riviera Nayarit, this time to San Pancho, which will host nine national and international DJs led by Duke Dumont, Bakermat and Goldroom.

Thousands of attendees will be on hand to enjoy this magical spectacle held at the Hacienda San Pancho.

July 22-23 V Sea Turtle Festival This festival, held in the community of Platanitos, serves up activities aimed at protecting the environment and the conservation of the sea turtles.

www.vallartatribune.com

Marsol Friday Market by the Pier

I

f you are walking down “Pier Street” aka Fca. Rodriguez, in Old Town Vallarta, stop in and visit the vendors at the Market held every Friday in the Marsol Hotel lobby - one of Vallarta’s oldest beach hotels built more than half a century ago.

The ‘gentrification’ of Fca. Rodriguez began with tearing down the old pier and replacing it with the ultra-modern water taxi/ tour boat ‘station’ we have now.

The Vallarta Garden Club and locale owners, Cindy from Archie’s Wok and Dee from Dee’s Coffee Shop, began making patios, a fab bike rack, breaking out the power hoses, cleaning up, building planters and adding trees and flowers to the mix.

The result is stunning. While you are here, pop in and enjoy our Summer Marketplace. Considerably smaller than mid-winter and with a much more leisurely vibe, shop for everyone on your list and don’t forget you!

Take away a bag of cookies from La Dulce Vida; a container

I

f you are driving into Vallarta on the Libramiento from the northern part of the city or Nuevo Vallarta, Bucerias, etc., you have to go by Three Hens Market. We are two blocks past the small tunnel on the left-hand side, across from the ice factory. Inside our airy courtyard, you will find an astonishing array of goods and services; fabulous gourmet foods and the only place in Mexico where you can buy “La Fortuna” coffee from Chiapas.

Organically-grown by Ausel’s family, the La Fortuna coffee beans are roasted in a brick oven on the plantation and delivered to Vallarta where the coffee is ground (or left as whole beans) and bagged. A medium and dark roast are available; either one will give you a reason to fly out of bed every morning!

Ausel’s partner, Alan, makes peanut brittle from a century-old recipe from Louisiana; Alan remembers going door to door selling the very same peanut brittle as a young boy but, he insists his tastes better because he now uses Mexican peanuts. Try a cup of Ausel’s coffee with Alan’s peanut brittle – a match made in heaven!

(or two) of hand crafted creams from Ricardo that will knock years off your face and some Maz Mix that will make your fat-loss-program as simple as drinking a bottle of water; and jeweled rings, pendants, bracelets, silk collars, feathers for your hair and so much more.

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

Three Hens & A Rooster Market

Pat Wagner has unearthed several small serving trays from her overstuffed suitcase – designed for the cat lover in your life. They are so adorably patterned, it’s almost a shame to use them!

Same at Bill Kelly’s Boutique – the Fab Fabric Fellows have so

many pillow covers featuring cats as Audrey Hepburn (one example!) they should be framed and put on a wall.

Three Hens & A Rooster market is open Saturdays from 9 am to 1 pm at Venustiano Carranza 466 in Old Town Puerto Vallarta.

Everything Must Go Sale

PRIVATE COLLECTION OF FURNITURE, COLLECTABLES, HOME DECOR & MORE CUSTOM DESIGNED AND SELECTED ITEMS BY LONG TIME DESIGNER RON THOMPSON OF THOMPSON DESIGNS.

Friday, July 28th & Saturday, July 29th, Amapas - Conchas Chinas, PV Furniture ◆ Electronics ◆ Cookware ◆ Bedding ◆ Bar ◆ Patio Furnishings ◆ Home Decor

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CONTACT

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7/17/17 3:23 PM

entertainment

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Zsa Zsa Gabor - The Last of Old Hollywood Glamour

By Fred Jacobs

Z

sa Zsa Gabor was born on February 6, 1917, in Budapest Hungary (then the Austro-Hungarian Empire). She was the middle sister of three, Magda (older) and, of course, Eva (younger). Zsa Zsa was schooled at a Swiss boarding school in the 1930s.

Zsa Zsa was “discovered” in 1934 by a well know opera singer of the day who invited her to sing a role in a new operetta of his that would mark her stage debut. In 1936, Zsa Zsa was also crowned Miss Hungary and in 1937, at the age of 20, she would walk down the aisle for the first of nine times, with husband number one, a Turkish diplomat who was twice her age.

As the Nazi march through Europe ramped up during World War II, Zsa Zsa, her sisters and most of the family fled Hungary for the US around 1941, and Zsa Zsa also divorced at this time. In the US, Zsa Zsa and her two sisters, quickly became the hottest invite in social circles. Zsa Zsa also met husband number two, Conrad Hilton, through the social scene

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In 1944, Zsa Zsa co-wrote a novel with Victoria Wolf titled, “Every Man for Himself”, which was

in part written about Zsa Zsa’s own life experiences. But Zsa Zsa turned down an offer to play the leading role in a film version of the classic book “Lady Chatterley’s Lover”, because of its theme. 1949 would see Zsa Zsa take on husband number three with composer, George Saunders.

The marriage again would end in divorce after five years. George went on to marry Zsa Zsa’s older sister Magda, in 1970, before it was annulled.

Zsa Zsa tried several serious acting roles in the 1950s, such as “Moulin Rouge”, “Lovely to Look At” and “We’re Not Married!”, but the decade closed with her in the “B” film “Queen of Outer Space” (1958).

She found much more fame in the tabloid magazines and from stories of her personal life.

An investment banker would become husband number four in 1962 and divorced in 1966. 1966 also saw husband number five

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

Where can I find the Vallarta Tribune?

8 222 667 .net : 322 Office@ronmorgan net an. info

ww w.r

and they married in 1942, but would divorce just five years later.

Between the three Gabor sisters, they would go on to have twenty

come and then go the following year. Zsa Zsa’s beauty and charm, along with her thick Hungarian accent, made her a favorite on TV talk shows in the 1960s and 70s.

She was almost a living cartoon, but she embraced the role.

The 1970s saw husband six and even come and go. In 1983, Zsa Zsa married a Mexican character actor, Felipe De Alba, but it was annulled because her previous marriage was not properly dissolved. Throughout this time, TV seemed much more of a friend to Zsa Zsa than the big screen. She was a frequent guest on shows like Milton Berle, the Bob Hope specials, the Dean Martin roasts, “Love Boat” and Johnny Carson.

In 1986, Zsa Zsa would walk down the aisle for the final time with her prince. Frederic Prinz von Anhalt to be exact. He only got the title of “Prince” after paying Princess Marie-Auguste of Anhalt to adopt him as an adult. As odd as the duo seemed together, Zsa Zsa and Frederic must have worked for the most part.

But as Zsa Zsa’s health declined in later years, allegations of neglect and the milking her bank accounts dry, were alleged by her only child, Francesca Hilton. Francesca alleged von Anhalt “compromised her mother’s dignity, security and health for attention and profit”. She also claimed von Anhalt prohibited Zsa Zsa from having visitors, including her own daughter.

The last fifteen years of Zsa Zsa’s life were filled with medical problem after medical problem. She was basically on life support for the last five years of her life, including feeding tubes. But her pain finally ended in December 2016, just two months shy of her 100th birthday.

It seems von Anhalt’s gravy train finally ended.

LLARTA OF VA PEOPLE Page 18

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 ‘Three Hens and a Rooster Market, Venustiano Carranza 466, on Saturdays’ 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

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July 20 - 26, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com