Issue 1060, July 27 - August 2, 2017 by Vallarta Tribune

EVENTS

riviera nayarit

Art & culture

Page 03

Page 07

Page 09

Ceviche y Aguachile Fest

Projects on the horizon

VallartaTribune.com

July 27 - August 2, 2017 Year 20 Free Issue 1060

DE I U G

a or Ah en l Ăąo pa Es

E E FR

Tin man of TonalĂĄ

Summer break sunset at playa Holi Photo By Madeline Milne

The stages of family travel Page 14

Featured Property of the Week Page 12

things to do! Page 17

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 27 - August 2, 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

Editor’s

Note

editor@vallartatribune.com

Ceviche and Aguachile, yes please!

t has been crazy hot these past few days. I was at the beach this weekend and just walking across the sand to the water burned the soles of my feet. I don’t think I’ve ever had that happen before - and after six years of exclusively wearing flip-flops, you’d think they’d be a

editorial little tougher. Tomorrow I’m off to Canada where I will squish my feet into some ‘real’ shoes again and suffer blisters for the next month. If you are up to braving the hot temperatures then this weekend we have the Ceviche and Aguachile Festival in Lazaro Cardenas Park. This is the third or fourth time for this event and it just keeps getting better. If you are a fan of these seafood dishes, this is a great day – bring a pocket full of pesos and go early as some stands sell out quickly. A group of us went to the Sheraton for their ‘Sunday Brunch’ complete with mimosas and live mariachi band. For about $350 pesos you get all you can eat buffet, all you can drink mimosas (I know, I tested this.) and full use of the pools and facilities. It was very busy; I suspect because of summer vacation but, all in all, a super fun day. There are a few events happening each weekend. Visit vallar-

tatribune.com/eventos and see what’s been posted. Incanto continues to pack the room with their variety of shows. Lots of bars and clubs continue to offer excellent live music throughout the week, including Patio de mi Casa and the Jazz Foundation as well as my fav, El Solar. If you have never done a baby turtle release, now is the time! Baby turtles are starting to hatch. Check out the Campamento Tortuguero Boca De Tomates for daily updates. These little creatures are adorable and you’ll be helping out the local ecology with your support. I hear there are also many baby dolphins in the bay at the moment. Check with some of the local tour companies for a day on the water and maybe you’ll spy a couple of these cuties. That’s it for me this week. Short and sweet and I still have to pack! Safe travels,

DO YOU REALLY NEED

THAT STRAW?

Madeline

Ceviche and Aguachile this weekend!

By Matt McCue

ocal residents and visitors to the area are invited to attend the Festival de Ceviche y Aguachile (Ceviche and Aguachile Festival) at Lazaro Cardenas Park on July 29, which celebrates the local seafood delicacy with participating restaurants, microbreweries, and raicilla producers. With more than 30 different versions (including vegan options) of ceviche and aguachile by 10 local restaurants, the festival will feature local recipes and some international fusion versions of aguachile and ceviche. Although both are similar dishes that both rely on the acidity of citrus juices to cook raw seafood, aguachile is typically has more of a broth or liquid base while ceviche is a comparably dryer product that is typically served on tostadas. The festival was also held this past January, with more than 170kg of seafood consumed by more than 1000 people. Local organizer Edgar

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

Sin popote, por favor! Cisneros, with support of local government, plans to make the event a bi-annual event that promotes local culture and cuisine to the national and international market. The festival is sponsored in part by microbreweries Minerva and Dos Cuentos, local raicilla producers Balam and Ritual de Los Dios, all of whom will have their products on sale at the event. The Festival de Ceviche y Aguachile will be a fun and inexpensive event with a stage for live music throughout the day. The Festival de Ceviche y Aguachile will be held on July 29 from 12-7pm in Lazaro Cardenas Park (Olas Altas and Venustiano Carranza) in Old Town.

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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July 27 - August 2, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

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 Mexicoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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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July 27 - August 2, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

MX seen as winner of first battle in talks There is some optimism after US document makes no mention of tariffs

F Puerto Vallarta’s popular Old Town. The city’s hotel occupancy increased last year by 7%

New tourism director’s ‘strong plan’ for Vallarta By Meagan Drillinger avier Aranda Pedrero became general director of Puerto Vallarta’s tourism board in April, coming to the role with 25 years in the tourism industry. As director, Aranda Pedrero is committed to continuing to market Puerto Vallarta and sister destination Riviera Nayarit as a unit: Puerto Vallarta with its city-meets-beach feel, and Riviera Nayarit for its secluded beaches and jungles. “We have a very strong plan for the next three years together, and we are going to be enforcing all of our best values of the destination,” Aranda Pedrero said. “We have the benefit of the Banderas Bay, as well as the small, Magical towns that surround the region, and all the activities that the mountains behind us offer.” He says that the tourism board is focused on attracting new markets of people and will do so by promoting the cultural, musical and sporting events that Puerto Vallarta has to offer to show the destination off as a haven for young travelers, as well, not just the typical older demographic that tends to flock to its beaches and hotels. Currently the tourism board is in the process of creating this calendar of events that will appeal to the younger markets in hopes to make Vallarta a year-round destination for culture and activities, not just a beach winter escape. To start, the first world invitational Mountain Bike races to be run in Jalisco this November following the route Ferreria de Tula, Union de Tula, Talpa de Allende and Puerto Vallarta. The race spans more than 240 miles and will run over four days. Also in November, the city will host the Pacific Games, a CrossFit event with more than 500 competitors from across North America. Occupancy increased last year by 7%, as well. However, Aranda

Pedrera said that there are no immediate plans for hotel developments in Puerto Vallarta. The city and beach area is small and already quite developed. However, he said, there is much development to be expected south of the city along the Costalegre. Two new luxury hotels are going to be developed, about two hours south of the city. “We don’t consider them to be Puerto Vallarta hotels, exactly, but we do promote that area as part of the Puerto Vallarta experience,” Aranda Pedrera said. What will be developed in the city center is the cruise ship pier. The government is investing $5 million in creating a new commercial area for cruise passengers, which will include a tequila distillery, an art gallery, a food court, a 400-car parking lot and what investors say will be the biggest aquarium in Latin America. The project is scheduled to be unveiled in the first half of next year. In terms of infrastructure, the lateral sides of Avenida Francisco Medina Ascencio, the main avenue that connects the airport with downtown, will be repaired, as well. Both Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit are eagerly anticipating the debut of the Cirque du Soleil theme park that is going to open in conjunction with Vidanta Resorts and Destinations. The project, once completed, is expected to double the amount of tourists that Puerto Vallarta sees annually. Aranda Pedrera said he is excited that this new development will increase the fame of the destination and give travelers another option to visit, but in terms of practicality at how the destination is going to equip itself to handle that dramatic increase in visitors, the details won’t be ironed out until September. Original: travelweekly.com

ears that a push from the United States to renegotiate the terms of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) would have a negative effect on Mexican exports and the economy in general might prove to be unfounded. In fact, the Mexican Institute of Financial Executives (IMEF) believes that Mexico has won the first battle in looming trade talks with its northern neighbor after the U.S. government announced Monday that it would not seek to introduce protectionist measures such as tariffs or new quotas on industrial and agricultural goods entering the country. The Office of the United States Trade Representative released an 18-page document entitled Summary of Objectives for the NAFTA Renegotiation in which it outlined its goals across a range of areas from digital trade to energy, the environment to investment and anti-corruption measures to currency, among others. President of the national economic studies committee of the IMEF, Gabriel Casillas, explained that one of the main points for renegotiation from the U.S. perspective will be the rules of origin, which determine whether a particular product gets preferential treatment under the agreement depending on where it was made or produced. However, some of the measures proposed will benefit not just the United States but Mexico and Canada as well, giving all three an advantage over competitors from other regions of the world. “To update and strengthen the rules of origin, as necessary, to ensure that the benefits of NAFTA go to products genuinely made in the United States and North America,” is the objective as stated in the document. No reference is made in the document to a desire to introduce tariffs on imports from either Canada or Mexico, news that is welcomed in Mexico. “That there are no tariffs on the discussion table and a free market is maintained is a 50% win for Mexico. It’s probable that in the renegotiation process there will be bumps along the way but in the end it will arrive at a good place,” Casillas remarked. There are currently more than 16,000 clauses in the 23-year-old agreement, each one dealing with

NAFTA negotiations will begin August 16 in Washington

a specific product. Another objective is “to ensure that the rules of origin incentivize the sourcing of goods and materials from the United States and North America.” Mechanisms already exist in the agreement that stipulate what percentage of the constituent parts

held in 2018. “Both administrations are very conscious of that and are doing what is possible to meet [the requirements] on time. If for any reason it is delayed and it carries over to the next government, there’s not much to forecast now,” Berrocal remarked.

“That there are no tariffs on the discussion table and a free market is maintained is a 50% win for Mexico. It’s probable that in the renegotiation process there will be bumps along the way but in the end it will arrive at a good place.” of a product need to be sourced from the North American market in order for protectionist mechanisms not to apply, but the U.S. is seeking to make the rules stricter. “If you want to make a car in Mexico and export it to the United States we need it to have at least 62.5% of its parts from the neighboring country so that it can pass free of tariffs. On this matter, they want to increase the origin content measures on some products for the benefit of the U.S.,” Casillas explained. Objectives related to tackling corruption and making labor laws central to a renegotiated NAFTA are also outlined in the document. Casillas conceded that introducing the changes in those areas might be complicated but that they are not necessarily bad for Mexico. “They can be seen as a straitjacket to achieve good things, above all on corruption issues,” he said. IMEF president Adriana Berrocal commented that it would be preferable for NAFTA renegotiations to conclude before Mexico’s presidential election and the United States midterms, both to be

The United States has a trade deficit with Mexico that reached $63 billion last year and the stated objective to “reduce the trade deficit with the NAFTA countries” is seen as a priority for the U.S. in the upcoming talks. Still, both members of the IMEF remain confident that an agreement that benefits all three members of NAFTA will be reached despite President Donald Trump’s occasional rhetoric and Twitter tirades that suggest otherwise. A trade attorney and former counsel for international trade at the Economy Secretariat described the document as “very positive.” “It deals with many of the fears of Mexican officials, particularly on going back to a tariff system . . . . It’s clear the U.S. does not want to move back to tariffs,” Carlos Véjar said in a report by the Financial Times. U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer today announced that the first round of negotiations will be held August 16-20 in Washington, D.C. He said John Melle, assistant trade representative for the western hemisphere, will be the U.S.’ chief negotiator.

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New Projects on the Horizon in Riviera Nayarit By Janeen Christoff

iviera Nayarit is ringing in the occasion in many way as it approaches its 10-year anniversary. A year’s worth of celebrations are scheduled to honor the milestone, but the region is also looking forward with a bevy of new developments. Several new projects are underway that are sure to make the region even more attractive to visitors. New resorts are in the works, as are upgrades to the area’s highway system. A significant new development in the entertainment sector is also nearing completion and scheduled to debut midway through 2018. One of the most important is the completion of the Jala-Bahía de Banderas Highway. The 105-mile highway will make travel from Guadalajara and vice versa much more accessible, reducing drive times from five hours (currently) to just two. The first stretch of road was recently completed, and upcoming segments are due to be finished in December. Las Varas and Las Vara to Bahia de Banderas are slated to begin construction in 2018. Another new highway has just been inaugurated, connecting the Tepic and San Blas while reducing

the drive between the two cities to just 20 minutes. Along with a new dock in San Blas, the coastal town is now much more accessible to visitors. Hotel developments continue to blossom in the relatively young region. They range in scale from mega-resort complexes to more boutique undertakings. One of the largest of the current projects is Costa Canuva CIP. Spanning an area of more than 550 acres and more than four miles of beachfront, the development is expected to add at least 7,000 guestrooms to the area. Plans call for five new luxury hotels, including the area’s first Fairmont hotel. There will also be a PGA golf course co-designed by Lorena Ochoa and Greg Norman. The La Mandarina Complex is another large-scale development. It will be home to the 125-room One&Only Mandarina, which is currently under construction and scheduled to open during late

2018. The complex, located in the Monteon at Compostela, will also feature two polo fields, an equestrian center, two obstacle courses, villas and new hotels including a Rosewood property. It will span more than 630 acres. Smaller additions to Riviera Nayarit’s hotel market include the acquisition and expansion of the Hotel Bel Air in Flamingos—the completion of the second stage of Grand Sirenis Matlali that adds 140 suites to the property. Marival Group will also expand via their first beachfront property set to open in October 2018. An $80 million Iberostar Litibu will also start construction, and the Brisas Group will expand with Hotel Nizuc—the luxury brand for the group. From an entertainment perspective, Grupo Vidanta will open a Cirque du Soleil theme park scheduled in 2018. The immersive theme park will include a water park and nature park as well as an outdoor evening show that will accommodate between 3,000 and 5,000 spectators. Original: travelpulse.com

July 27 - August 2, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Banderas Bay Women’s Shelter Critical Situation for Shelters for Victims of Domestic Violence

n Mexico there are 60 shelters and just over 30 External Resource Centers (centers associated with shelters that offer services of psychologists, social workers and lawyers) for women and their children who are victims of domestic violence. All of the shelters and external resource centers (ERC’s) depend on federal government assistance to help cover their operational costs. This year over 50% of the shelters and external resource have been denied this federal assistance due to technical reasons. The shelters and ERC’s that will not receive assistance will be forced to drastically decrease the services that they offer or close. This financial crisis comes at a time when there is a need for more shelters, ERC’s and other resources. During the last two years Gender Alerts have been announced by the government in 12 states due to a sharp increase in gender related violence and homicides. Puerto Vallarta is among the municipalities that has an active Gender Alert. Additional gender alerts are pending in 8 more states. The state and the municipality governments are responding, but

there is much more to be done. We look forward to the opportunity to work with the government wherever and whenever possible. Banderas Bay Women’s Shelter has responded to this crisis. In Tepic we have opened an ECR where women receive services of psychologists, child psychologists, social workers and lawyers at no charge. The ERC also has an emergency shelter where families can stay up to 4 days while they are processed to go to the Banderas Bay Women’s Shelter or are sent to live somewhere else where their aggressor cannot locate them. In Puerto Vallarta we are distributing fliers in many neighborhoods that include information about domestic violence and a hotline number. We assist women in finding the resources that they need. We have plans to open a ERC in Puerto Vallarta this fall that will provide the same services as the ERC in Tepic. If you are a woman who is in a domestic violence situation or you know of someone who is you can contact us at 322 150 8181 or 322 247 0639. You can also seek assistance by email at unavidasinviolencia@hotmail.com.

Critically Acclaimed Comedy ‘Princesas Desesperadas’ Returns For Limited Run at Incanto

erro Bravo Productions returns to Puerto Vallarta this summer with the Spanish adapted version of Tomas Ustusastegui’s comedy “Princesas Desesperadas”. Under the clever supervision of multi-award winner, director Ramiro Daniel, and with the participation of award-winning actors Juan Pablo Hernandez, Juan Carlos Ramirez, Cesar Trujillo, and Cesar Bravo, “Princesas Desesperadas” is a fast-paced comedy that tells the story of four Disney Princesses who get together fifteen years after their “happily ever afters.” None of them is happy that they are not yet queens, and the sharp vaudeville-esque comedy quickly puts the audience in a voyeuristic situation as each character becomes unraveled as they peel off the tragedy of

their lives piece by piece, drawing the audience into a very private conversation amongst women; a conversation not meant to be heard by anyone else. “Princesas Desesperadas” - in Spanish - began in Puerto Vallarta in April 2014, and has enjoyed overwhelming success ever since, playing to nearly two thousand people and receiving accolades from the media and the public. Pero Bravo’s co-founder Cesar Bravo says, “Those who have seen this joyful production have become ardent – very ardent fans, with some having seen the production seven times!” “Princesas Desesperadas” plays Fridays and Saturdays July 28, 29, August 4, 5 and September 1, 2 at 8:30pm in the cabaret theater.

Please note that all performances are in Spanish. Online tickets are now available at Incanto’s website. In the piano bar, Sylvie & Jorge of The Zippers band play Classic Rock on Tuesdays at 8pm. Azúca plays Gypsy Swing/Latin Jazz/ Cuban Rhythms on Wednesdays and Sundays at 7:30pm. Open Mic Night is on Thursdays at 7pm hosted by Tracy Parks, with Chris Kenny on guitar. Sing, dance, play an instrument… The stage is yours! On Fridays at 7:30pm ‘The Joanie Show’ starring Joan Houston, with Salvatore on piano, features Jazz, Blues, Classics and lots of laughs! Singer/songwriter Chris Kenny plays Jazz, Blues and Rock on acoustic guitar Saturdays at 8pm, followed by Spanish guita-

rist/singer Gabriel Reyes at 10pm for ‘Last Call’ (also on Fridays at 10pm). Bingo with Pearl fundraisers are on Saturdays at 5pm. Lots of fun! Great Prizes! Benefits Ballet

Folklorico Tradiciones, who will also perform.

Online show tickets are available at www.IncantoVallarta.com. Call 322 223 9756 for reservations.

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July 27 - August 2, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Agro-exports boosted with new cargo flights

Site of one of the landslides on the weekend in Nayarit.

Korean Air begins running 3 flights a week between Guadalajara and Vancouver

M New highway closed at least two weeks

Rain-induced landslides close brand-new Jala-Compostela highway in Nayarit

rand-new sections of road on the highway between Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta, closed due to landslides last weekend, could reopen in 15 to 20 days, says the Nayarit office of the federal Secretariat of Communications and Transportation (SCT). Heavy rains have been blamed for the slides on the Jala-Compostela and Ramal-Compostela highways, which were initially expected to remain closed for a month. The Jala-Compostela highway has only been operational since April.

An SCT official said the slides were a result of the instability of the mountainsides above the highways, and predicted it would take several years for the ground to stabilize. Crews will remove some 50,000 cubic meters of material from hillsides above the highway as a temporary measure to get traffic moving again before further work is done to stabilize the ground. At least one 20-meter-high berm will be constructed as a retaining wall.

Original: Mexico News Daily

ADORABLE DOG IN THE SPOTLIGHT...KING by Janice Gonzalez

ing is a two-year old Australian Kelpie mix almost 42 pounds. He is an absolute sweetheart! King is a calm, low energy boy who would be the perfect fit for a loving family. He is very laid back and submissive with other dogs. King is even okay with cats. He is most happy in a calm environment so we prefer a household with children over 5 years of age. King has been vaccinated, dewormed and neutered. If a low energy family dog is what you have been searching for, contact us at spcapv@gmail.com for an application to adopt King.

exican agricultural products are now able to reach the Canadian market in just five hours after Korean Air opened a new cargo route linking the cities of Guadalajara and Vancouver. Flights run three times a week and are dedicated to transporting up to 200 tonnes per week of agricultural products. The first one took off yesterday during an event attended by federal Agriculture Secretary José Eduardo Calzada Rovirosa, who predicted the service, with no stopovers in the United States, will trigger a significant increase in Mexican exports of perishable goods to Canada. It will carry about US $2 million worth of products from Jalisco, Colima, Nayarit, Sonora and Michoacán every week. Calzada also forecast that those exports will grow 20% annually. Until now, such goods had to travel through the United States where they would either await transfer to another flight or travel on by truck, taking as long as 11 days to arrive, said José Medina Blanc of the logistics firm Going. The Korean Air flight has the added benefit of connecting in

The Korean Air flight loads up in Guadalajara.

Vancouver with flights to Seoul, the capital of South Korea, carrying Mexican products closer to the broader Asian market, particularly those of China and Japan. During 2016, the main agricultural exports to Canada were comprised of fresh, refrigerated and some frozen fruits, vegetables and meat, particularly products such as guavas, mangoes, strawberries, blackberries, tomatoes, cabbage, broccoli, coffee, fish and beef. During the inaugural flight ceremony, Jalisco Governor Jorge Aristóteles Sandoval Díaz explained that the new route is part of a comprehensive national policy through which Mexican products are being sold in 160 countries.

“Directing our sights north [to the United States] was a mistake. Looking at the rest of the world is the right answer,” he said. “An example of this is the impressive growth of perishable goods [exports] to destinations different from the United States. Foreign vegetable trade has grown 122% between January and April when compared to the same period last year,” remarked Sandoval. As a result of this new policy, exports of perishable goods now represent 15% of cargo operations in Guadalajara, where electronics once dominated with 90%, added the governor.

Original: Mexico News Daily

Bringing a laptop or tablet on a Mexico-to-U.S. flight? Beware of new security measures

exican authorities say the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has instituted heightened security measures for laptops and tablets on U.S.-bound flights from the country. Mexico’s Transportation Department said in a statement that the measures took effect starting Wednesday (July 19) for “electronics larger than a cellphone.” It recommends passengers carry as few of those devices as possible in carry-on bags and advises that such electronics must undergo separate security checks without cases or covers. In March, U.S. authorities banned cabin electronics on departing flights from 10 airports in the Middle East over concerns that extremists could hide bombs inside laptops. Earlier this month, carriers in Jordan, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, and Turkey announced that they

had been exempted from the ban after they had satisfied U.S. security concerns. On June 28, before those announcements, the Department of Homeland Security released a plan to implement “enhanced security measures” for all commercial flights to the United States. “These measures, both seen and unseen, include enhanced screening of passengers and electronic devices as well as heightened security standards for aircraft and airports,” it said in a statement. It said those measures would apply to 105 countries, 208 airports, 180 airlines and an average of 2,100 daily flights, but it did not specify which ones.

The statement said the DHS and the Transportation Security Administration would work with aviation stakeholders over the coming weeks and months “to ensure these enhanced security measures are fully implemented. Those stakeholders who fail to adopt these requirements with certain time frames run the risk of additional security restrictions being imposed.” The DHS did not respond to inquiries Wednesday. Perry Flint, a spokesman for the International Air Transport Assn. trade group, said the airline industry “is working with regulators to minimize disruption and inconvenience to passengers resulting from these enhanced security measures.” “In the meantime,” Flint said, “we urge passengers to follow the advice of airlines and security regulators regarding when to arrive at the airport.”

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Creative

hands of Mexico Leigh Thelmadatter

osomadre@hotmail.com

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

Tin man of Tonalá

ose Luis Arzola Tovar lives in the famed pottery town of Tonalá, Jalisco, on the edge of the Guadalajara metro area. He is well-known among the artisan community here and has a following of collectors. He does not work in clay, but in tin. The working of sheet tin is not traditional in Tonalá, but rather in San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato, a few hours to the east. Four generations earlier, Arzola’s great grandfather worked in the 1880s by soldering metal items in the streets of San Miguel and neighboring Dolores Hidalgo, along with making items such as toys from sheet tin. His grandfather and father followed suit. The Guanajuato handcraft tradition extends into his mother’s lineage as well, with the making of beeswax figurines and highly decorated candles popular in the southern part of the state. Upon entering Don José’s modest home on Madero Street, one notices immediately the collections that give historic weight to the work that the maestro does. One side of the living room contains tables filled with traditional tin toys from the 20th century up to 1980s, some of which have been made by Arzola and predecessors. The main bedroom wall is filled with old tin folk retablos, naif paintings dedicated to a certain saint or other

Catholic figure either as a petition or in gratitude for a favor received. But the main surprise awaits lucky visitors in the back of the property. Here there is a very small two-room structure that used to be Arzola’s parents’ home. When his father died, the family turned the space into a museum for a multi-generational interest in collecting cultural objects, especially tin handcrafts. The collection was started by Arzola’s grandfather. It includes pieces made by the family over 100 years ago, such as tin frames, toys, and lanterns as well as soldered glass enclosures. From the mother’s side there are candles and beeswax figures and even one piece that is a mix of wax and tin. The museum does not limit itself to work done by the family. Most of the pieces are tin frames surrounding religious icons which come from various parts of Mexico. There are also various wood pieces from all over Mexico, some pre Hispanic ceramics from Jalisco and other areas and more. The two oldest pieces in the collection are both folk retablos on tin, one definitively dated to 1800 and the other likely from the same time, but too badly eroded to be certain. There is also an interesting collection of retablos depicting scenes from Mexico’s history, in particular the Mexican Revolution, noting suffering and escapes from death/injury by famous and not-so-famous partici-

pants in these events. Arzola has been invited to exhibit the collection in museums in various parts of Jalisco and has even had one international exhibition in Buenos Aires. He says much of the interest in the collection is from foreigners, with most visitors to his home from the U.S. and Canada. Don José’s work is based on the tradition demonstrated in the home and museum. He was born in Guanajuato, but when he was only three, the family moved to Monterrey and shortly thereafter to Tonala to the same block where he and various members of his family can still be found. He began working metal with his father at age ten, starting with the soldering of glass enclosures then moving on to working in sheet tin. When he married, he specialized in tinwork, with one brother specializing in the glass structures. Although he still makes tin toys, Arzola is better known for making the intricate frames for religious imagery. In the past, sometimes the family painted the images of the Virgin Mary and saints, but today Arzola focuses on the tinwork to enclose commercially produced images. (This is common for artisans of this type in Guanajuato as well.) His frames are replicas or near-replicas of the pieces found in his museum, using the same materials and techniques for the most part. Exceptions include commercially made elements such as military buttons, but these are sparingly used. The tin is worked only with hand tools on a simple table in the living room. Keeping the tradition alive here is proving difficult and it is very likely that don José will be the last in his family to continue the tinwork. While the family is interested on conserving and promoting the museum/ collection, none of his children have decided to dedicate themselves to craft. He has received support from government agencies and some academics, but the frames and toys have gone out of fashion in Mexican culture. However, the support has translated into the teaching of classes in Tonalá and Tlaquepaque, and the maestro has hopes that one or more of the young students will continue on after him. Interestingly enough, the most eye-catching thing in the maestro’s living room is not the toy collection but the colorful marionettes that cover nearly an entire wall. These figures represent an interest ofD José that began in 2012, after meeting marionette makers in Buenos Aires. He researched the tradition of mario-

July 27 - August 2, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

nettes in Mexico, and especially in western Mexico, finding people to teach him to make and handle the figures. Arzola took what he learned and decided to form a small marionette company that specializing in stories from and about Mexican indigenous people. Arzola’s family is Otomi (a dominant ethnicity in Guanajuato) and has been involved in indigenous groups in Jalisco for some time, leading him to speak a bit of other languages such Nahuatl, Tecuece and Cora, which are important in the history of Jalisco.

Arzola’s home, workshop and museum are on Madero #295 in Tonalá All photos unless otherwise indicated by Leigh Thelmadatter

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24 Hour ‘Rowathon’ for Vallarta Children with Cancer

n Fri, July 28, 2017, Greg and Hillary Kennon of the Kinetic Kennons, along with the members of Crossfit Zapata, will ‘Row to Guadalajara.’ They will row (on a rowing machine) for 24 hours straight to raise money for CANICA, a center in Puerto Vallarta that helps children with cancer. CANICA supports about 30 local families in assisting with the transportation costs to and from Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara, the location of their cancer treatment center. These families typically take a bus from PV to Guadalajara for the treat-

ments. The round trip fare for one mother and child is around 1,520 pesos, or $86 USD. The rowers’ goal is to raise enough money to help each family make at least one trip to their treatment. With that goal, they need your help! Starting at 6:00 pm, Crossfit Zapata will hold a FREE community fiesta that will include food, massages, entertainment, and more (donations accepted). The goal of this event is to row 330 kilometers (the distance from Puerto Vallarta to Guadalajara), to raise money for and promote awareness of CANICA and

the families they support. They hope to help alleviate the financial burdens that come with traveling to and from cancer treatments. Athletes and community members will be rowing for 24 hours straight and all peoples are invited to come party, eat, and participate in this one-of-a-kind charity event that’s set to be held from Friday, July 28th at 6:00 pm until Saturday the 29th at 6:00 pm at Crossfit Zapata, located at Naranjo #330 in Colonia Emiliano Zapata, San Pancho. More information about the event can be found on the Kinetic Kennons Facebook page. As an integral part of the Puerto Vallarta community, Crossfit Zapata is striving to use their fitness skills and abilities to raise awareness and funds for local charities. Your support in this endeavor will help these children to get the treatments they need and together, we can help lighten the financial burden on these families in our community. If you cannot attend the free community fiesta on July 28th, you can make a donation online at YouCaring.com.

Crispy and Crunchy Mexican Salad

ow’s this for an awesome lunch: a heaping bowl of beans, avocado, shrimp, corn, tomatoes and tortilla chips all tossed together with a tangy vinaigrette. Don’t go skipping off to the nearest salad-ery just yet—making your own hearty Mexican salad is super easy. Here is a delicious, flavor-packed recipe to get you started: Mexican Chopped Salad This bright and colorful take on the classic chopped salad includes charred peppers, tangy tomatillos, crunchy jicama and creamy avocado. Ingredients 1 1/4 cups plus 2 tablespoons canola oil 7 tablespoons fresh lime juice 1 1/2 tablespoons minced garlic 1 small jalapeño—stemmed, seeded and minced Kosher salt 6 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves 2 red bell peppers 1 green bell pepper 6 corn tortillas, cut into 2-by-1/4-inch strips 1 cup tightly packed coarsely chopped cilantro 1 tablespoon sugar 1 tablespoon cider vinegar Freshly ground pepper 2 tomatoes, seeded and diced 2 ripe Hass avocados, cut into

1/2-inch dice 1 medium red onion, finely diced 1 small jicama (1 pound), peeled and cut into 1/2-inch dice 5 large tomatillos, husked and cut into thin wedges In a large nonreactive baking dish, mix 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons of the canola oil with 3 tablespoons of the lime juice, the garlic, jalape—o and 1 teaspoon of salt. Add the chicken, turn to coat and let stand at room temperature for 1 hour or refrigerate for up to 4 hours. Roast the red and green peppers under the broiler or directly over a gas flame, turning occasionally, until charred all over, about 10 minutes. Transfer to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap and let steam for 10 minutes. Peel the peppers, discard the stems and seeds, then dice. Meanwhile, in a medium skillet, heat 1/4 cup of the oil until shimmering. Add the tortilla strips and fry over high heat, turning frequently, until golden,

about 2 minutes. Drain on paper towels and sprinkle with salt. In a blender, combine the remaining 3/4 cup of oil with the cilantro, sugar, vinegar and the remaining 1/4 cup of lime juice and puree until smooth. Season the vinaigrette with salt and pepper. Heat a large cast-iron grill pan and lightly rub it with oil. Remove the chicken from the marinade and scrape off any garlic and jalapeño bits. Grill the chicken over moderate heat, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through, 10 to 12 minutes. Transfer to a work surface and let stand for 10 minutes, then cut into 3/4-inch dice. In a large bowl, combine the roasted peppers with the tomatoes, avocados, onion, jicama, tomatillos and chicken. Add the vinaigrette and toss gently to coat; season with salt and pepper. Transfer the salad to a large platter, scatter the fried tortilla strips on top and serve.

July 27 - August 2, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

From Here

Marcia Blondin

marciavallarta@gmail.com

ovany’s “Everything Must Go Sale” is this coming weekend with an Open House Friday and Saturday at Horizon Residences but, you can get a sneak preview by appointment so call 322 260 4943. In Jovany’s own words: “…my client Ron Thompson designed pretty much everything (Ron Thompson Interior Designs). all high-quality shipped from New York and Palm Springs. Oh! And bargains, bargains, bargains!” Had fabulous food and conversation at Seasons P.V., close to Intercam Banco, last week with dear friend Alain Perreault. I wanted poutine without cheese; he wanted with. Then he saw the spaghetti special that we both wanted plus salad and French bread. We asked the impossible – could we share? And we did, with our waiter Cesar making sure everything came out of the kitchen already split in two. Lovely Caesar salad, fries and gravy for me (with cheese for the French Canadian) and Spaghetti Bolognese. It was Happy Hour and freezing cold in there. A quick walk took us to our next meat locker for martinis – Incanto’s piano bar. We joined owner Tracy Parks at the bar for more chatter about upcoming events…this Friday the 28th brings back Princesas Desesperadas, the hilarious story of four Disney princesses disgruntled after 15 years of being wed to princes who will seemingly never be kings; therefore, they shall never be queens. Well….Snow White, Aurora, Belle and Cinderella are played by men. The four get together for some serious Girl Talk aided and abetted by various beverages and recreational goodies to enhance the desperation in their conversation. This show is so freaking funny and has previously sold out every performance in Vallarta. Join me opening night. Oh, Alain Perreault is the Producer of this madcap comedy. Don’t miss it. Curtain is 8:30 pm this Friday in Incanto’s theatre. This Saturday, the 29th, at Fu-

sion Gourmet, is a most unusual event…”Let’s Have Dinner and Talk About Death” starts at 7 pm with a maximum of 20 guests who – besides being royally fed – will be given topics to discuss. Believe me, I will have a full report next week! The Second Annual Cheryl’s Shoebox Summer Bash is a week closer. This charitable event will happen at Babel Bar on the Isla Cuale, Sunday, August 6th, starting at 2 pm with live music, games and hammocks. Last year was wonderful; don’t miss this one – proceeds buy shoes and school supplies for so many underprivileged kids. Cheryl will be there as always; her spirit smiling down on the fun. Went to see Paul Crist at his cozy Hotel Mercurio just off Olas Altas. Mercurio is in the thick of all things ‘Olas Altas’ and so close to the beach on a major, but very quiet street. I am planning to go again soon to sit by the pool and have lunch. What an oasis! Very Mexican Old-World style and full every weekend. While I was waiting for Paul, Bill Hevener walked into the lobby and we sat and talked about Gay Pride events that happened this year and plans for next year that already exceed Everyone’s Wildest Imaginings… Stay Tuned! Immigration Alert, part II My column last week encouraged (terrified??) a number of people who got in touch asking questions about their status. Methinks the Immigration office will be somewhat busier in the next few weeks. As for me, I received a couple more notices via email to fill out more forms; which I did, praying I was understanding the Spanish perfectly. (oh, lord….) Then, I received a letter from Emma Gomez on behalf of her boss, Lic. Edgar Ezechiel Alvarez Gudiño, to go to Immigration, Monday, July 24th to be fingerprinted for my “new immigration document”. I think that calls for a tentative Halleluiah, From Here!

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July 27 - August 2, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

The Tax that Refuses to Die

Finding

Your Happy Rhonda Zarate

Orlando Gotay, Tax Attorney

rhondazaratelifestyle@gmail.com

tax@orlandogotay.com

Rhonda Zarate is a Happy Heart Lifestyle Coach. She helps people find their happiest hearts through coaching, finding their happy home and with her book Find Your Happy Planner at Amazon, Barnes & Noble. You can see what she is up to at rhondazarate.com Wishing you a happy day!

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

Pursue a happy heart

o you wake up on a Monday morning ready to grab your week by the tail? If not and you find yourself dreading when Monday roles around, then maybe you need to pursue with vigor what makes you happy. Life is far too short to feel passionless. Passion is the main name of the game of life. Be who you are and do what makes you happy versus what and who you think others want you to be. A dear friend is on a trek by herself through Europe to celebrate her 50th birthday; a christening of sorts of the next chapter of her life. I am in awe that she is doing this alone and envy her confidence, self-reliance, and determination to simply do whatever she wants while letting nothing stop her. She sent me a picture of a tattoo she has that is on her wrist in her handwriting that simply says, “My Journey.” She was asking my opinion and second-guessing herself. To be honest, tattoos are not something that I have put on my body, but I see the symbolic value of them for

some people and have pondered the thought of doing it myself. My friend was seeking my approval, my thumbs-up, to reassure her she had done the right thing. It suddenly struck me like a lightening bolt, why would my or anyone else’s opinion be of any relevance? It truly is her journey that she is on and why would my vote veto hers? Why do we give others a voice in our lives as to what makes us happy? So, I told her I thought she was a rock star and I loved her tattoo and good for her for doing what makes her happy. This conversation got me to thinking. What makes me happy? Life is a gift and that sometimes I feel I squander that gift a bit by overthinking things. However, I want to be freer and let my personal happiness flow; doing what I want and what makes me feel good. I truly think who we surround ourselves with can squash or blossom our happiness within. We all should stand strong on who we welcome into our lives within our close circles. Your tribe should

embrace you and your unique characteristics that make you happy. A quacky duck is far more interesting than a solo white seagull in a flock of 100 birds. Start thinking today about what makes you happy, no matter how crazy it might be to others. It is all about you. I encourage you to flex your creativity and start tracking your happy moments in a journal so you can pinpoint what brings joy to your heart. Start making space in your day for doing the things that you love, and before you know it your life will grow into the master plan that you designed - made by you, just for you. Five things that bring me joy are reading, massages, movies, cuddling & creating in the kitchen. What are five things that make your heart happy? Homework: Make a list of your top five things that you LOVE to do. Place the list on your fridge so you can see these happy making things every day. Make a promise to yourself that you will do all five of them this week. Enjoy!

he Affordable Care Act – Obamacare--has “dynamic duo” of taxes: The Net Investment Income Tax and the Additional Medicare Tax. Up to a few weeks ago, things looked ‘auspicious’ for a replacement of Obamacare and replacement with X, of course that X being “something else”. Central to the attempts to this was the effort to repeal these two birds, which are particularly galling to ‘wealthy’ people. They are targeted (but the income ‘trigger’ for either tax can be as low as $125,000 if filing married separately). The Net Investment Income Tax applies to individual’s “net investment income” whose incomes are above a certain amount, and it also applies to trusts and estates. In comes the Mexican Land Trust (MLTs), or “fideicomiso”. I want to explore a possible intersection between a “Fido” and the NIIT. In Mexico, ‘Fidos’ are mandatory for foreign ownership of property close to shorelines and national borders. You may have heard the IRS has decreed that MLTs are not “trusts” from a US federal income tax perspective…but that is not true for all MLTs…only those that meet IRS requirements. The main ones: MLT holding only title to residential real property in the

Mexico restricted zone, and MLT neither permitted nor required to engage in any activity beyond holding title. Note: “any activity”. Mexicans don’t care about IRS rules. Perfectly valid MLTs for Mexico purposes may not fold neatly into the IRS’s “MLT is not a trust” ruling. Things like the trust collecting income, administering the property, paying taxes, holding title to more than one property, could be things that cross that red line the IRS drew for MLTs. What does your “Fido” say? If the MLT fails the IRS test, guess what: you have a real trust, and a foreign one at that, requiring reporting on special forms. If that trust also has enough income it could itself end up being subject to the Net Investment Income Tax, on top of all the very bad things that happen to people that own unreported foreign trusts. Is this far fetched? Not at all, I say. How to prevent this? Make sure you (and not the MLT) have the right to collect rents and incomes from the property; ‘actively participate’ in the management of the rental; review your “Fido” to make sure its language may not trigger IRS disqualification; and in the meantime, pray for repeal. You may need extra large candles, at the rate things are going in DC!

Featured Property of the Week

LAS MORAS CASA SHERYL 2 bed, 1.5 bath, 1,635 Sq. Ft.

his pretty 2 story house is the lowest priced property currently available in Las Moras. Downstairs is a living room, dining area and kitchen. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also a half bath and laundry/ storage room. The house is well maintained with comfortable furnishings. The backyard is beautifully landscaped with enough room for al fresco dining. The upstairs has a full bath with a large shower, two bedrooms with large closets and an airy landing at the top of stairs. Both bathrooms and kitchen have

been updated. The living room and bedrooms have new split A/C units. The house has screens on the every window and door. The loca-

tion is perfect, it is in the middle of subdivision, it is very quite. This complex has 24 hour security, and is beautifully landscaped

with a wonderful and large community pool. boardwalkrealtypv.com/ properties/casa-cheryl/

NOW OPEN IN VALLARTA

Use Your Existing Health Insurance in Mexico No enrollment fees No deductibles No out-of pocket expenses

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MANAGED CARE MEDICAL GROUP Accepting over 350 US and International insurance policies, Lake Medical Group offers the most comprehensive care for your insurance policy. No more out of pocket expenses. We handle all the billing between providers and insurance agencies directly, with no additional fees. Accepting: Aetna, Humana, Tricare, VA, Medical Advantage, Bluecross, United Health Care, State Farm, Rocky Mountain Health Plan, Premera Blue Cross, Mutual of Omaha, IMR, and 335 more plans! 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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Two Expats in Mexico

July 27 - August 2, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Paradise

and Parenting

Paul Kurtzweil

Leza Warkentin

www.qroo.us

mommyinmexico.wordpress.com

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.

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.

Fideicomiso or Mexican Corporation?

The Stages of Family Travel

hy did you choose to create a bank trust [fideicomiso] when you bought your condo instead of forming a Mexican corporation and holding the deed under that? The short answer is that the fideicomiso was our only legal option because our condo was purchased for residential use. If the short answer was enough to satisfy your curiosity, feel free to stop reading and go enjoy your day. However, if you’d like a bit more explanation and perhaps some hyperlinks to the applicable laws, I recommend that you keep reading. I’m going to back up a little for those readers who have absolutely no idea what this post is about. This post is referring to foreigners purchasing property in the restricted zone in Mexico. The restricted zone is the land within 50 kilometers of any coast or 100 kilometers of any border. Foreigners are prohibited by the Mexican constitution from having direct ownership over property in this area. Don’t worry; your dream of having a beach house in the Riviera Maya is not dead. Fortunately, Mexico created two ways that foreigners could still purchase property in the restricted zone: 1) by creating a bank trust, known as a fideicomiso; or 2) by forming a Mexican corporation and purchasing the property under that legal entity. The legal basis and specific conditions for these two options are found in Mexico’s Foreign Investment Law (Ley de Inversión Extranjera). Under Article 10 of the law, a Mexican corporation can only be used to purchase properties for non-residential

purposes. Since our condo is our primary residence and it was purchased for that purpose that only left us the fideicomiso option. Residential vs Non-Residential The definitions for “residential” and “non-residential” are found in Article 5 of the Regulation of the Foreign Investment Law and the Foreign Investment National Registry. Residential: Property that is used exclusively for housing by the owner or third parties. Non-Residential: Property intended for non-residential activities, including the following: . Those that are allocated to timeshare; . Those destined to some industrial, commercial or tourist activity and that simultaneously are used for residential purposes; . Those acquired by credit institutions, financial intermediaries and auxiliary credit organizations, for the recovery of debts owed to them that derive from operations proper to their object; . Those used by legal persons for the fulfillment of their corporate purpose, consisting of the disposal, urbanization, construction, and other activities included in the development of real estate projects, up to the moment of their commercialization or sale to third parties, and In general, real estate intended for commercial, industrial, agricultural, livestock, fishing, forestry and service provision activities.

Links:

w w w. d i p u t a d o s . g o b. m x / LeyesBiblio/pdf/44_260617.pdf h tt p s : / / w w w. g o b. m x / c m s / uploads/attachment/file/201462/ R e g u l a t i o n _ Fo r e i g n _ I n v e s t ment_Law.pdf

here are many stages in the life of a parent. There’s the Diaper Stage and the Potty Training Stage and the Big Boy Underwear Stage. There’s the Baby, Toddler, Preschooler and School-Aged continuum. There’s the Pre-Xbox and the My Kid’s Eyeballs are Falling Out phases. And then there are the stages of Traveling with Kids. Our family likes to travel a lot. We aren’t always able to travel due to my husband’s musical work constraints and financial-due-to-no-work constraints, but when we can get away, we are very happy to do so. We will be gone for over a month to Canada this year. In previous visits, we usually stuck pretty close to my parents’ house, basing ourselves around a familiar place where we could make grumpy children take naps and where we could close ourselves into a safe room and hiss at them for embarrassing us in front of extended family members. This time we are going to be doing a lot of traveling within Canada because we figure they

can handle it. Because nothing says emotional control like the pre-teen years. Um. Hang on a sec, I may not have thought this through completely. My children like to visit new places as well, as long as there is a souvenir shop. The only way we got through a whirlwind tour of practically every pyramid in the Yucatan is because a great number of the sacred sites sold mini-versions of themselves in air-conditioned comfort. I present to you this set of stages for traveling parents, so you can refer to it before deciding whether you can take your child on a twenty-two hour cross country road trip. I kind of wish I made this before planning our own. 1) No Concern For Public Shaming – In this phase, babies and toddlers don’t mind lying down on the floor and screaming while you are sweating and trying to drag them through the metal detector. With the Authorities watching. And all the other travelers who enjoy observing someone else lose their minds for once. 2) The Tiny Window of

Competency – Preschoolers can last way longer than toddlers when you want to see, say, the world’s smallest children’s museum or the toy section at a grocery store. Plus, they mostly walk (until they don’t). But beware the closure of the Window. Once it’s closed, it’s not opening again until you’ve ready twenty stories and fallen asleep beside them with your mouth agape. They will be ready for another outing at precisely that moment. 3) Go All Day – The school agers can go, go, go and they will keep you walking long after you are no longer aware that you are still vertical. However, this only applies if they are doing stuff that they enjoy. Which is mostly stuff that you do not enjoy, like amusement park rides and lines of amusement park rides. If you want to do something interesting and educational, they will develop a rash and a stomach virus and a hoarse, unhappy voice that some people refer to as whining. 4) Preteen Tedium – This is boring. Where’s my earphones? I can’t hear you, I have my earphones on. You told me this wouldn’t be boring. That’s as far as I’ve gotten, but I’m really looking forward to the next two stages which I’ve tentatively named: Adolescent Airplane Angst, and Can’t I Stay Home as My Graduation Present? All joking aside, I do enjoy traveling with my family. I think it’s most enjoyable if you come prepared. Insider’s tip: you can always stave off the worst characteristics of each stage by having a great sense of humor, lots of unhealthy snacks, and a decent set of ear plugs.

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July 27 - August 2, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

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.

The Most Magnificent Beaches: Baja California Sur

ithin the creation of any great work of art, you can usually see certain elements of that great work in several previous works, but none of those previous works have all the elements at one time. It is the same with great beaches. You probably have your own list of the elements that make up a great beach. Here’s the list for my wife, Jet Metier: • Warm weather. • A cove or a bay, perhaps with a view of an island. • Warm, clear water (preferably different shades of blue). • White, powdery sand. • Gentle access (no hard slopes), and easy to walk on. • Clear skies. • Few people. • Safe conditions. • Clean, with a place to put trash. • Quiet • Unthreatening marine flora and fauna • A place where the dogs can play safely (not be attacked by other dogs, get swept out to sea, etc.) Here are just a few of the contenders that we visited during our six weeks in the general La Paz, Baja California Sur area, keeping in mind that we visited from the middle of May until the beginning of July, which is off-season, and that there are probably many, many more great beaches we don’t know about.

La Ventana Bay

No surprise here. My wife picked our house in part based on her criteria above. From the house we were renting, I could walk directly down the hill about 7 minutes and be at the beach. There, I could

release our two dogs, who would play in the surf or chase birds, because there was usually either no one there, or just one or two other people, for miles. However, other than our rental home just up the hill, there were no services. On a whim, I decided to put on a diving mask and try snorkeling. Being from Southern California, I was immediately astounded. Within water just two feet deep, I saw several varieties of fish. Within 5 feet depth, I saw coral. If you wanted to, you could just stand in a few feet of water, put on a mask, stick your head in the sea and feel like you were in a giant aquarium.

Balandra The beaches north of La Paz are a kayaker’s paradise, although we saw very few kayakers. In fact, we saw very few people at all, as one beautiful beach after another rolled by on our left. Every once in a while, you would see a restaurant on the shore, with palapas and perhaps some campers. The sea would be glistening as birds stood on exposed rocks perhaps 40 yards from shore. The most famous of these many beauties is Balandra, and if you’ve seen a picture of a beautiful beach near La Paz, it was probably Balandra. There was a concession stand selling dresses and hats and another that rented umbrellas for shade, which was a bit odd, because there were several

palapas available at no charge. Like many of the other bays along the way, the perfectly clear water in Balandra is about two feet deep for what seemed like more than a hundred yards. You can see people 50 yards away, in the sea, standing, talking with one another while holding drinks, or floating by on a raft just a bit higher than knee level of the people standing in the water.

Tecolote

No more than 10 minutes past Balandra, the road dead ended at Playa Tecolote. As you arrive, you have the choice of one large restaurant to the right, and one to the left. In either restaurant, if you buy a meal, you get to use the palapa and their bathrooms. If you don’t, there are still many places further to the right or left you can use for free. We tried each of these restaurants on separate occasions, and both were very, very good, with prices higher than we had become accustomed to in Baja, but perhaps 50% or less of what you would expect to pay in a beach area in Southern California, but with no charge for parking. You can use the bathrooms (not fantastic), get a great meal, shade, and enjoy the white sand and clear, clean, flat water. You can even rent a kayak for a very reasonable amount, and a jet ski as well. However, even

with all these services, there were very few people there; perhaps 25% of capacity, at most. At both restaurants, the waiters loved our dogs and called them by name. We were able to take long walks completely undisturbed. My wife had sea bass, which came as an entire fish, for about $7.50. She loved it.

Bahia de Los Sueños

In my wife and my opinions, I saved the best for last. In order to get to Bahia de Los Sueños from where we stayed in La Ventana, you have to drive to the same road to get to the intersection where you would make a right to get to La Paz, but instead of making a right, you make a left. This takes you through the agricultural area of Los Planes, and then, to more and remote areas. You can go to the public beach to the left, or you can go just a bit further, over a cattle guard, and approach a guard with a gate. We were told to tell him we were going to the restaurant, which we did, and which was enough to get him to lift the gate. We drove on dirt roads for about 8 minutes or so (of course, no guardrails, steep drop-offs, no signs, many alternative choices, etc.), and then, we saw a small sign, which we followed. Suddenly, appearing before us were elegantly placed palm trees, a nice place to park in the shade

over powdery white sand, and a large building. I walked up the stairs, past the three pools and a group of about 10 people eating lunch on the patio of what looked to be about a 5,000 square foot game room with a bar extending almost the entire left side, and kitchen in the back. There was a pool table, other games, and above, on the open second floor (the ceiling must have been close to 30 feet high), ran an elaborate miniature train. To put it mildly, this is not what I had expected to find in this remote place. It was like Citizen Cane had come to Mexico and opened his home to the public. What was this place at the end of the dirt road? The waiter explained that it was a restaurant and that the boutique hotel was up the paved, palm tree shrouded walking path, and we were welcomed in the restaurant… with our dogs! There was no charge for parking or the magnificent view, which we could see through the palm trees. Are there more beaches like the ones I describe above in the La Paz area? Yes, we visited more than we have space to describe here. Also, I am quite certain that, given how all the components of the perfect beach are in abundance in this area for probably more than a hundred miles, there are many, many more, some perhaps even more beautiful. We just haven’t seen them yet.

riviera nayarit

July 27 - August 2, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Mare Nostrum, a Tapas restaurant in La Cruz Life

In La Cruz By Cindy Bouchard Cindy Bouchard, an expat Canadian runs a Boutique Inn, Villa Amor del Mar in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle. She and her husband Chris are living and lovin’ in Vallarta–Nayarit. If you want more info on La Cruz or desire… A very special vacation contact cindy@VillaAmordelMar.com

ecognized as one of the best culinary countries in the world it doesn’t surprise me that Chef Chuss Perez is from Spain, specifically the town of Asturias. I adore Spain and tapas; enjoying small bites of many foods while sharing the experience with friends is my favorite dining experience. Chuss’ original profession was as an actor and theater professor. To pay for his education, he worked in restaurants in Ibiza, Scotland, USA, Peru, Colombia, and Acapulco, until his last job at a Spanish restaurant in Morocco. Chuss was head Chef at Restaurant Rabat, owned by a Prince, the brother of the King of Morocco. Europe’s loss is La Cruz and Vallarta’s gain! Travelling half the world he met and married Silvia Monfil in Spain. Silvia, from Xalapa, Veracruz and Chuss deciding to return to Mexico and run a restaurant contacted their Spanish friend, Yaya, who told them about the building where Roberto’s Xocolat was located. The gorgeous view combined with their tasty food is a marriage made in heaven. Mare Nostrum is Latin for ‘our sea’; its how the Ancient Romans referred to the Mediterranean. Chuss says his intention in La Cruz, apart from bringing the best recipes from the Mediterranean cuisine, is to help promote tourism throughout the year so that all businesses can thrive even in low season. There is so much beauty here, take a drive and come visit, enjoy the view and have a wonderful meal. Eager to extend the season in La Cruz, Chef Chuss and Silvia encourage all to enjoy Mare Nostrum offering a complimentary appetizer or dessert for lunch and/ or dinner if you mention that you read this article. Open for just over a month now, Mare Nostrum’s owners are crea-

ting so much more than fabulous food. They’re also creating a cooking school, a theater, and bringing in a physical trainer. They’ll offer exercise in the mornings on their terrace with that spectacular view overlooking the entire bay. They’ll prepare a healthy breakfast for those who’ve exercised and others too; free coffee included. Chef Chuss Perez, a chef for more than 25 years, told me, “ I love to cook, teach my favourite recipes and talk to customers. I’m always interested in suggestions and opinions. My challenge is to make this one of the best restaurants, not only to eat, but also to relax on the sunny terrace with a good mojito while listening to great music; often live shows. It inspires me to enjoy the spectacular view while being able to create the best food with my hands. My slogan is: “Relax, refresh, leave happy”. I spend my days in the restaurant except Mondays when we close. I like the sea, it is my favorite place to walk and relax.” In their new hometown they say they live simply and have yet

to know many people. I’m a lover of animals and treasure children. Chuss is looking forward to working with youth in our community so that they may understand the world that awaits them outside. He wants to be a positive

influence, teaching them to act and the art of more ancient humanity, the theatre, and make plays. My life is theatre, inspiring children and the kitchen. That is what makes me happy. A quote he created: “Listen,

observe, and learn from children and that will make us a happier life” I anticipate great success for Chuss and Silvia! Day or night, enjoy the beautiful view of the bay and a great meal; for more details call 329 295 6388.

things to do!

July 27 - August 2, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Looking for something to do? Get out and explore!

ere we have listed some of the most important activities in the destination. These include everything from golfing on any of the many courses created by renowned designers to adventure tourism that will get the adrenaline going with activities such as ATV motorcycle tours, zipline adventures, mountain bike excursions, 4X4 jungle tours, birdwatching and more. 1. Golf Few activities compare with the luxury of practicing your swing on one of our impressive golf courses. Puerto Vallarta - Nayarit has positioned itself as one of the best golf destinations in Mexico. The key to its success lies in the combination of its magnificent scenery of mountains, tropical jungle and beach, with the designs by famous names including Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman, Jim Lipe, Robert Von Hagge & Baril and Percy Clifford. 2. Birdwatching Even though San Pancho and San Blas are the very best spots for birdwatchers, in its entirety

the Bay of Banderas and Riviera Nayarit have excellent conditions for viewing birds thanks to its location on the western migratory route for the flocks that travel from North America to the South. In this coastal corridor one can observe 546 species between the coastal plains and the mountains—428 of which are endemic and the rest migratory—making Birdwatching one of the most populatr tourism niches in the region. 3. Polo Every day the so-called “sport of kings” gains more followers in the region. La Patrona Polo & Equestrian Club, located in the town of San Pancho, Nayarit, is a standout, offering a complete competition program between November and May. The club is affiliated with and sponsored by the Mexican Polo Federation and meets the conditions to be a part of the international circuit. To the south of Puerto Vallarta, the town of Costa Alegre also offers exclusive polo events.

4. Coffee Route - Compostela and Xalisco, San Sebastian The municipalities of Compostela and Xalisco are a must for coffee lovers. According to the experts, this is where the best coffee is produced. Some of the brands of this aromatic bean produced in the region are already recognized nationwide while others are being sold in the United States and even as far as Europe. The so-called Coffee Route includes several communities in the municipality of Compostela, where the product is harvested. The tour departs from the municipal seat of Compostela through Vizcarra, Jaltepec, Tepiqueños, Cumbres de Huicicila, Jalizal, Pajaritos, Mezcales and El Molote and ends in Mesillas, generating valuable income for these communities. Head into the mountains around San Sebastian del Oeste in Jalisco and you’ll find organic producers who proudly sell their fresh roasted beans at local markets. 5. Hiking A healthy body is a happy body.

Hiking is a great budget-friendly way to increase your level of activity and reap a ton of health benefits. Few destinations compare with the beauty of the region, and by hiking visitors can discover many spectacular areas that would otherwise be unreachable. There are different companies in the area that offer this service; some hike up the mountains, along the shoreline and others take visitors on tours to the archaeological ruins, where they can discover not only the flora and fauna but also the history, the different lifestyles and the rich culture of the people of Nayarit and Jalisco. 6 Zipline See the beauty of the mountains up close and personal by ziplining through the jungle canopy—it’s an unforgettable experience for those who love nature and adventure. During their “flight” the visitors will enjoy the immensity of the natural scenery of the jungle. 7. Mountain Biking This sport can be practiced with one of the many clubs that

organize pack rides or with the adventurers who head to the hills to ride the nearby mountains. There are guides who are familiar with the many routes where mountain bikers can safely enjoy their ride. 8. ATV Tours Head down jungle paths, cross rivers and splatter some mud at high speed as you travers the farmland and countryside in this mix of wild and “dirty” fun. There are many ATV tours available, including some that include ziplining and another where the ATVs are amphibious vehicles, which takes the entire experience to another level. 9. 4x4 Adventure Nothing boring here! Visitors can indulge in an all-terrain adventure and explore the trails in the Sierra Madre, guided by experts in a 4x4 jeep, fording rivers and visiting ancient and traditional towns. They will see how local families live and how they grow and cultivate their own food—it’s an educational and inspiring trip through the surrounding natural habitat filled with a variety of wildlife, flora and tropical vegetation.

travel

Experiencing the Magic of Mexico in San Sebastian del Oeste

July 27 - August 2, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

lanketing the Mexican countryside is a majestic feeling that enamors visitors and wins the hearts of all those who travel throughout the Latin nation. While the ever popular tourist destinations of Puerto Vallarta, Cancun, Cabo San Lucas rake in the majority of international tourism with their stunning beachfront locales and endless entertainment, there are other magical towns throughout Mexico that offer insight into the charming culture and rich history of the people. These Pueblos Magicos, as recognized by the Mexican Secretary of Tourism, offer an extraordinary opportunity to get to know the real Mexico and the brilliance of its people. Pueblos Mรกgicos Pueblos Mรกgicos is a program that was created in 2001 to recognize and promote the various villages throughout Mexico that attract a great deal of tourism due to their natural beauty, cultural riches and historical relevance. The program allows places like San Sebastian del Oeste, an old mining town founded in 1605 just an hour and a half from Puerto Vallarta, to shine for all those who visit the area. As one of the many magical villages throughout Mexico, this quaint town will treat you to a distinct Mexican experience that is sure to have you falling in love with its enormous charm and simple lifestyle.

Whether taking a day trip from Puerto Vallarta or staying for a week, there are plenty of things to do in San Sebastian. Surrounded by the lush Sierra de la Madre Mountains, this beautiful town is the perfect escape from the heat of nearby Puerto Vallarta. Spend hours roaming around, admiring the moss covered buildings and beautiful architecture of the mining era. Enjoy the plaza at the center of town, where trails of fragrant trees and a small stream create a calming sensation. Head up to Cerro de la Bufa for amazing views of the sunset and a mystical experience amongst the clouds. Or visit Quinta Mary for an exquisite cup of coffee and a chance to see the 100% organic production process. However you fill your days, be sure to the embrace the tranquility of the experience, which will transport you through time to days when electricity and modernity were nonexistent. Every inch of this beautiful town is blanketed in the glory of yesteryears. Once a thriving mining town of 20,000, the now just 600 inhabitants will spend their days making sure you enjoy your stay, so sit back, relax and let the magic of San Sebastian take your breath away. Why not book a tour to explore this beautiful Pueblo Mรกgico on your next visit to Puerto Vallarta and the Bay of Banderas?

viaje

July 27 - August 2, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Experimenta la Magia de México en San Sebastián del Oeste

l campo mexicano enamora a los visitantes y gana el corazón de todos aquellos que viajan por todo este país latino. Mientras que los destinos turísticos cada vez más populares como Puerto Vallarta, Cancún y Cabo San Lucas son los que reciben a la mayoría del turismo internacional –con sus impresionantes escenarios frente al mar y entretenimiento sin fin– hay pueblos mágicos en todo México que ofrecen su encantadora cultura y rica historia. Estos Pueblos Mágicos, reconocidos de esta manera por la Secretaría de Turismo de México, ofrecen una extraordinaria oportunidad para conocer el verdadero México y la brillantez de su gente. Pueblos Mágicos El programa de Pueblos Mágicos se creó en 2001, para reconocer y promover los diversos pueblos de todo México que atraen a una gran cantidad de turismo debido a su

belleza natural, riqueza cultural y relevancia histórica. El programa permite a lugares como San Sebastián del Oeste, un antiguo pueblo minero fundado en 1605 a sólo una hora y media de Puerto Vallarta, lucirse para todos aquellos que visitan la zona. Como uno de los tantos pueblos mágicos de México, esta pintoresca ciudad te brindará una experiencia mexicana distinta que de seguro te enamorará con su enorme encanto y sencillo estilo de vida. Ya sea para un viaje de un día desde Puerto Vallarta o una estancias de una semana, hay muchas cosas por hacer en San Sebastián. Rodeado por las exuberantes montañas de la Sierra Madre, esta hermosa ciudad es el lugar perfecto para escapar del calor de la cercana ciudad de Puerto Vallarta. Ideal para pasar las horas deambulando, admirando los edificios cubiertos de musgo y su

hermosa arquitectura de la época minera. Experimenta la sensación de calma que ofrece este pueblo con su plaza principal cubierta de flores, los senderos de árboles fragantes y el pequeño arroyo. Visita el Cerro de la Bufa para

unas increíbles vistas de la puesta de sol y una experiencia mística entre las nubes. visita la Quinta María para una exquisita taza de café y la oportunidad de ver el proceso de producción 100% orgánico de café local.

Sin importar como llenes tus días, asegúrate de disfrutar de la tranquilidad que te transportará en el tiempo, a los días en que la electricidad y la modernidad eran inexistentes. Cada milímetro de este hermoso pueblo está cubierto de la gloria de antaño. El que una vez fue un próspero pueblo minero de 20.000 habitantes, ahora es un tranquilo lugar con tan sólo 600 habitantes. Entonces ponte cómodo, relájate y deja que la magia de San Sebastián te sorprenda. ¿Por qué no reservar una excursión para explorar este hermoso Pueblo Mágico en tu próxima visita a Puerto Vallarta y Bahia de Banderas?

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

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Personal Shopper

Buy & Sell ~ Anything & Everything

sherryvallarta@yahoo.com 044 322 137 7063 Pandamonia Boutique

For the Cat Lover... Tees - Totes - Magnets Trays - Pillows Three Hens & A Rooster Market V. Carranza 466 Saturdays 9 to 1 Contact Pat Thunherst Wagner at ptwagner@comcast.net Marsol Friday Market by the Pier Three Hens & A Rooster Market on Saturdays

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

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

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Three Hens & A Rooster Market

Peter Hardy cinnamon bun (or two) and a cup of coffee (or two) from Ausel’s exclusive “La Fortuna” brand straight from his family’s coffee plantation in

Chiapas is quite possibly the latest Vallarta version of heaven. Three Hens Market is loaded with artisan bakers who stay up all night to bring our visitors the freshest bagels, cupcakes, lemon bars, bread and so much more. If you ever think of a combination of flavours (a recent example: chocolate and zucchini), mention it to Andrea of La Dulce Vida, chances are it will become an experiment that you can buy next week. Extraordinary, by the way! Pat has been making cushions with some of her latest fabric purchases. So tropical, breezy, light and fun. Not to be outdone, The Fabulous Fabric Fellows are

making Bill’s cooling ties out of 100% cotton (no other fabric is sufficient). The range of patterns and colors are endless and there are pintsized ones for your dogs. We also have sausages, honey, dill pickles, mac and cheese, lemon bars, fruit pies and quiche, Jewish comfort food, perogies and Venezuelan empanadas. A world of jewelry, large and small paintings in oil and acrylic, fab new women’s clothing and tee shirts, herbal treatments and more. Three Hens & A Rooster Market is open Saturdays from 9 am to 1 pm at Venustiano Carranza 466 in Old Town Puerto Vallarta.

Marsol Friday Market by the Pier

ost people who attend local artisan or farmer’s markets are already more discriminating than others and come prepared with empty bags into which they put their purchases. Taking it one step further, return your plastic or Styrofoam containers after gently washing them. They can be sterilized and reused. One step beyond that is to travel with your own piece or two of Tupperware. Say no to straws in your drinks and start packing your own containers. Baby steps, people; we can and must make a difference. About a month ago at the Marsol Friday Market, a gentleman struck up a conversation with our Herbalist, Ricardo Mazcal. Suffering from cancer, this man complained about a painful open lesion on his leg. Ricardo recommended

SPCA of Puerto Vallarta By Janice Gonzalez

he SPCAPV has started a new opportunity for businesses to contribute and become sponsors. Write to clare23leach@gmail.com to join us. Come and spend a rewarding afternoon cuddling the animals at Puerto Vallarta’s SPCA Sanctuary. Our dogs and cats are awaiting “forever homes” and your help is needed to jump start their socialization. The goal is to get these animals adjusted and ready to interact in the real world. The majority of the SPCA animals either come from extremely abusive situations

or they have been abandoned. Your love and attention can make up for that sad history. During your visit, you can interact with the animals and even take a dog (or two or three) for a walk. Reservations to visit the sanctuary need to be made in advance. To make a reservation, contact us at spcapv@gmail.com. We appreciate any donations you can bring for our rescues and also please feel free to bring treats for sanctuary staff as they truly appreciate it. To see our animals available for adoption, visit our Facebook page

he try Guanabana extract and Chilcuague, a plant native to Guanajuato, with a most curious and delicious taste. Ricardo chatted with this same gentleman last week and learned his lesion is much reduced. Another in a long (and getting longer) list of clients Ricardo has helped. His creams and lotions and herbal mixtures – all made by his own hand – are becoming mainstays in households all over the world. Marcia continues to add to her collection of “Mixto” earrings and “Palitos”, painted bamboo sticks for long hair with colorful embellishments. And “Flairs” - hair clips covered with colored ostrich and marabou feathers. Recycling at a whole new level! The Marsol Friday Market by the Pier is open from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm.

at www.facebook.com/spcapv. Go to Photos where you will also find individual Albums for all the animals available as well as a bit of their history. Please be aware that our adoption fee within Mexico is $1,500 pesos. To make donations via PayPal, select the “Donate” option on our Facebook page www.facebook. com/spcapv or on our website at http://spcapv.com/donate/. You can drop off any donations for the SPCA at Hacienda San Angel located at Calle Miramar 336, above Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in El Centro. Get involved…rescue, adopt, foster, volunteer, donate or educate. You can learn more about the

SPCA Puerto Vallarta by checking us out at www.spcapv.com/home or on Facebook.

entertainment

22 By Fred Jacobs

andra was born in Arlington, Virginia on July 26, 1964. Her father was a US Army employee and her mother was a German opera singer. Sandra’s parents met when her father was in charge of the US Army postal service in Europe, based in Nuremburg. Interestingly, Sandra’s grandfather was actually a German rocket scientist. Sandra was raised in Germany and Vienna, Austria for 12 years, and grew up speaking German. Sandra studied ballet and singing as a child and frequently accompanied her mother on tour, taking small parts in her opera productions. Sandra also sang in the opera’s children’s choir at the Staatstheater Nürnberg. In her early teens, the family returned to the US, so Sandra could go to high school, where she was a cheerleader and performed in school theater productions. After graduating in 1982, Sandra went to East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina, where she received a BFA in Drama in 1987. While at University, she performed in many theater productions. After graduating, Sandra moved to New York City, with the dream of becoming an actress. But like most aspiring actresses, it was a tough industry to break into. She supported herself working as a bartender, cocktail waitress, and coat check girl, while auditioning for acting roles during the day. For five years, Sandra struggled to make ends meet. Sandra’s persistence started to pay off when she landed a role in an off-Broadway play “No Time Flat”. The play was not a hit, but the director was impressed by Sandra’s performances and offered her a part in the TV movie “Bionic Showdown: The Six Million Dollar Man and the Bionic Woman” (1989). This led to her being cast in a series of small roles in several independent films as well as in the lead role of the shortlived NBC television version of the film “Working Girl” (1990). Sandra LTURE

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Sandra Bullock: International Movie Star

went on to appear in several films, such as “Love Potion No. 9” (1992), “The Thing Called Love” (1993) and “Fire on the Amazon” (1993). 1993 would become Sandra’s breakout year. She had a prominent supporting role in the science-fiction/action film “Demolition Man” (1993), followed by a leading role in “Speed” opposite Keanu Reeves and Dennis Hopper. Speed was a huge thriller hit and took in $350 million US at the box office worldwide, taking Sandra to a new level and becoming a widely known actress. Sandra then had a string of successes during the mid-1990s including the lead role in the romantic comedy “While You Were Sleeping” (1995). The role earned Sandra her first Golden Globe Award nomination for Best Actress. Sandra followed this with several more moderately successful movies such as “The Net” (1995) and “A Time to Kill” (1996), opposite acting

heavy weights Samuel L. Jackson, Matthew McConaughey and Kevin Spacey. Sandra then was offered a huge paycheck ($11 million US) to make the sequel “Speed 2: Cruise Control” (1997). The film did not have Keanu Reeves and ended up barely breaking even at the box office. Sandra is quoted saying “she regrets making the sequel.” But her star was not badly tarnished as she was selected as one of People magazine’s 50 Most Beautiful People in the World in 1996 and again in 1999. By this time, the savvy businesswoman in Sandra, led her to start her own production company. One of the first projects was “Miss Congeniality” (2000), which Sandra also starred in. It was a financial success that took in $212 million at the box office worldwide and Sandra received another Golden Globe Award nomination for Best Actress. In 2004, Sandra had a supporting role in the film “Crash”, which

won the Oscar for Best Picture. The ensemble cast included, Don Cheadle, Matt Dillon, and Ryan Phillippe. In 2005, Sandra brought us “Miss Congeniality 2”, but it barely broke the $100 million US mark at the box office. In 2006, Sandra reunited onscreen, with her Speed co-star Keanu Reeves, in the romantic drama “The Lake House”. In 2009, Sandra starred in “The Proposal”, with Ryan Reynolds. The film took in $317 million US worldwide, and she received her third Golden Globe Award nomination for Best Actress. Later in 2009, Sandra starred in “The Blind Side”, which she originally turned down the times because she was uncomfortable with portraying a devout Christian. But the film would go on to be a huge box office hit taking in over $300 million US and even earned Sandra her first Oscar statue for Best Actress. In 2011, she starred in the drama “Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close” opposite Tom Hanks, but the film did

not do well at the box office. The film was still nominated for numerous awards, including an Academy Award for Best Picture. In 2013, Sandra starred in the sci-fi film “Gravity”, opposite George Clooney. The film received universal acclaim among critics and was called “the most realistic and beautifully choreographed film ever set in space”. It was a huge box office hit taking in over $700 million US worldwide. Up next, Sandra is set to star in an all-female spin-off of the “Ocean’s Eleven” franchise, titled “Ocean’s Eight” scheduled for release next year. The cast includes Cate Blanchett, Helena Bonham Carter, Anne Hathaway and Rihanna. It should be an interesting mix. At only 52 years old, I’m sure we will see a lot more of Sandra for years to come.

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

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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 27 - August 2, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com