Issue 1061, August 3 - 9, 2017

EVENTS

riviera nayarit

Page 03

Page 17

Summer Beach Bash

August Events

VallartaTribune.com

Mexico is 8th most popular destination Page 06

August 3 - 9, 2017 Year 20 Free Issue 1061

DE I U G

a or Ah en l Ăąo pa Es

E E FR

NEWS

Birdwatching in Vallarta Chachalaca

Mascota, A Step Back In Time Page 16

Featured Property of the Week Page 12

Adorable Dog In The Spotlight... Milo

Page 21

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

August 3 - 9, 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 02/08/2017 CARNIVAL MIRACLE 3,200 09/08/2017 CARNIVAL MIRACLE 3,200 16/08/2017 CARNIVAL MIRACLE 3,200 23/08/2017 CARNIVAL MIRACLE 3,200 30/08/2017

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 August Puerto Vallarta welcomes 16, 000 passengers!

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

Cut out and put near your phone for handy reference

02

03

Editor’s

Note

editor@vallartatribune.com

editorial rolling in the grass isn’t your thing, then there are plenty of other events happening around town. Incanto continues to pack the house with great shows all week long, lots of live music, the markets on Friday at Marsol and Saturday at Three Hens continue all summer long, La Isla is having a ‘grand opening’ event on Thursday – if you’re looking for some good deals, this might be the weekend. I see they are also installing a children’s play area, which is sorely needed for the city.

a carnival and live music in the main plaza as well as numerous events. Jala is northeast of Vallarta on the highway to Guadalajara. It’s about a 2.5 hour drive.

It is a very charming town with beautiful old colonial architecture. You can find a cute hacienda style hotel for under $200 pesos a night, and of course the food is amazing and the people very welcoming.

The town is situated underneath a now defunct volcano that last erupted in 1872 and even cooler, has a lake in its crater.

Summer Beach Bash, Corn Festivals and Volcano Lakes

DO YOU REALLY NEED

THAT STRAW?

I

’m out of town for the 2nd annual Cheryl’s Shoebox Summer Beach Bash ,but I want to let all of you know that this is ‘the weekend event’ to attend. Not only is it the big fundraising event for Cheryl’s Shoebox charity and so your pesos will be going to support a worthy cause, it’s also a ton of fun! Think a bunch of wholesome party games, like three-legged races and balancing eggs on spoons, but add in a bunch of (slightly) tipsy adults and the hilarity ensues. I’m sorry to miss it, as it’s exactly the kind of fun I love – great friends and raucous laughter, all for a good cause. $200 pesos gets you in the door and a couple of cold beverages, along with live music, games and camaraderie. See just below this text for all the details.

If a bunch of goofy adults,

If the weather is just too much, think about hitting a movie at any of the cinemas around town; nicely air-conditioned, and really, the best bang for your buck.

It’s amazing how you can take a family of four to the movies for $300 pesos ($18) including popcorn and drinks!

If you’re thinking about hitting the road to seek respite from the humidity, consider visiting Jala for their annual Corn Festival. It runs August 6-15 and includes

There are lava fields that you can drive through. It’s a surreal landscape. Nearby villages are home to many traditional Huichol people and there are hot springs, waterfalls and lakes all within a few kilometers. It’s an area of great beauty and traditional culture and one worth exploring for a few days.

That’s it for me this week. I wish you all safe and cool travels, Madeline

This Weekend’s Must Attend Event!

Cheryl’s Shoebox 2nd Annual Summer Bash

T

he 2nd annual Cheryl’s Shoebox Summer Bash will be held Sunday, August 6th at BabelBar located on the Isle Cuale. This fundraiser will rock with live music and picnic style games where your favorite restaurants, bars and shops will compete for the title of Cheryl’s Shoebox Summer Beach Bash Champions!

Cheryl’s Shoebox started in 2011 to increase the quality of education in disadvantaged schools throughout the Banderas Bay region by providing shoes, school shoes and

school materials to students as well as educational supplies to teachers.

LOCATION: Babel Bar – Isla Cuale Access on Insurgentes bridge, walk east past The Jazz Cafe Access also available from the Aquiles Serdán Swing Bridge east of Aguacate DATE: Sunday August 6th, 2017 2:00 pm to 8pm PRICE: $200 pesos (includes 1 mixed beverage or 2 beers) Can’t make the event but want to help?

There are 3 simple ways to help with Cheryl’s ShoeBox Visit www.cherylsshoebox.org donate a cash donation through Casa Jojo Foundation.

Casa JoJo Foundation is a 501(c)3 Non Profit and generously handles all PayPal donations made to Cheryl’s Shoebox.

Drop off a pair of shoes at one of our drop off locations listed at cherylsshoebox.org/ shoe-donations/ Volunteer at one of our shoe distributions event.

Please contact Vicki@cherylsshoebox. org for more information.

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

Sin popote, por favor!

entertainment

04

P

erro Bravo Productions recently returned to Vallarta with sold-out opening performances of the critically acclaimed stage comedy, “Princesas Desesperadas”. Performing the Spanish adapted version of Tomas Ustusastegui’s comedy, the play is directed by Ramiro Daniel and stars award-winning actors Juan Pablo Hernandez, Juan Carlos Ramirez, Cesar Trujillo, and Cesar Bravo. It’s a fast-paced comedy that tells the hilarious story of four Disney Princesses

August 3 - 9, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Hit Comedy ‘Princesas Desesperadas’, Ballet Folklorico Tradiciones and ‘Great Jazz Vocalists’ play Incanto fifteen years after their “happily ever afters”. Next performances August 4 & 5 and September 1 & 2 at 8:30pm in the cabaret. Advance reservations are recommended.

Celebrating their one year anniversary, Ballet Folklórico Tradiciones features traditional dances of Mexico. They will perform the ‘Dance

of the Machetes’ from Nayarit and as the Charros and ladies of Jalisco, among several others. The group was founded in 2016 by Director and Choreographer Alexis Guadalupe Jimon Garcia. Adults and youngsters between the ages of 6 and 14 will perform. They have been invited to represent Mexico and the

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.

state of Jalisco in Shanghai, China at an International Folk Art Festival in September. Performances are August 18 & 19 at 7pm.

Captivating storyteller, professional musician and journalist, Paco Ojeda, will present an entertaining lecture entitled Great Jazz Vocalists of the 20th Century on

August 12 at 4pm. Attendees will enjoy audio and video snippets of some of the best jazz voices of the 20th Century, and discover the particular skills jazz singers must develop to stand out among their peers. These events are always fun and informative.

On August 5th from 5-8pm Incanto’s Artist in Residence, Mike Laking, will hold a reception and summer Art Show/Sale with 40% discounts off his photography pieces, some of which are currently displayed at Incanto.

No-host cocktails and complimentary appetizers will be served.

Sylvie & Jorge of The Zippers play Classic Rock on Tuesdays at 8pm. Azúca plays Gypsy Swing/ Latin Jazz on Wednesdays and Sundays at 7:30pm. Open Mic is on Thursdays at 7pm hosted

by Tracy Parks with Chris Kenny on guitar. Fridays at 7:30pm is ‘The Joanie Show’ starring Joan Houston with Salvatore on piano.

Singer/songwriter Chris Kenny plays Saturdays at 8pm, followed by guitarist/singer Gabriel Reyes at 10pm (also on Fridays at 10pm).

Loteria with Bev will take the place of Bingo with Pearl fundraisers on Saturdays in August. Aunt Pearl and local drag personality/Incanto Marketing Director Beverly Fairfax will co-host the first one together on August 5th at 5pm. Proceeds benefit Ballet Folklorico Tradiciones who will also perform.

Enjoy Incanto’s cold A/C, 2x1 house tequila cocktails/shots all day/night in August. No cover.

Tickets are available at www.

IncantoVallarta.com.

Hours 9:00am -11:30pm Tues.- Sun. The cafe is open for casual dining daily, rain or shine, with piano music by Maestro Salvatore starting at 10am. Incanto is located at Insurgentes 109 (at the Rio Cuale).

THANK YOU, VALLARTA!

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

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

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

CENTRO VALLARTA (322) 223-3080

MARINA VALLARTA (322) 209-0696

BUCERIAS/FLAMINGOS (329) 226-6162

news

06

August 3 - 9, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

State allows changes to birth certificates Nayarit is third state to permit modifications regarding gender identity

N Mexico, Home to a Healthy Pharmaceutical Sector

By Sandra Aguilar

M

exico’s pharmaceutical industry is fighting fit and winning market share in several parts of the world due to its innovative products and the amount of vaccines and generic drugs it produces.

In 2015, Mexico was ranked the leading exporter of medical products in Latin America. Switzerland, the United States, Panama, Venezuela and Colombia accounted for the bulk of foreign sales, which were valued at 1.8 billion usd in the reference period. Mexico was also ranked the region’s second-largest producer of generic drugs in 2015, surpassed only by Brazil, according to information furnished by the ProMéxico Sectorial Office for Health, whose director, Blanca Mendoza Avilés, believes increased production and Mexico’s growing prestige can be attributed to greater investment in R&D. Other contributing factors include the country’s stringent health regulations and oversight by the Federal Commission for the Prevention of Health Risks (Cofepris), good manufacturing practices, efficient processes and low costs, says Mendoza, adding that Mexico has also taken full advantage of its trade agreements with other countries.

Under the direction of the National Association of Drug Manufacturers (anafam.org.mx), the short-term goal is to ensure Mexico holds onto—and if possible, strengthens—its leading position in the production and exportation of innovative and generic drugs.

The sector has several growth strategies up its sleeve, but one of the most notable in terms of format and results is Vector Pharma (vector-pharma.com), an international business symposium for the pharmaceutical industry that ANAFAM has been organizing every

year since 2012.

The sixth edition of Vector Pharma took place on June 5, 6 and 7 in Mexico City, where it has been held since its first edition. Although it has existed for a relatively short time, the expo has established itself as one of the most prestigious in America, while its innovative model has set a benchmark for the industry worldwide.

The Mexican pharmaceutical industry is enjoying a period of growth, consolidation and international prestige due to its stringent regulations and the updating of its health registers, says Martínez, who also serves as coordinator of legal affairs for ANAFAM, an organization that represents 28 of Mexico’s largest pharmaceutical companies, which, together account for 65% of the drugs consumed by the country’s health sector.

Since it was founded, ANAFAM has supported research, experimentation, manufacturing, distribution and exportation activities with a view to opening up new business opportunities for the sector.

ProMéxico maintains ongoing dialogue with drug manufacturers and Vector Pharma is a top priority among the projects it has planned for the pharmaceutical sector, alongside the promotion of exports of pharmaceutical products, medical devices, cosmetics and personal healthcare and hygiene products to Latin America, and the positioning of Mexico as a clinical research destination.

Other federal government measures include efforts to attract more foreign investment with a view to strengthening the pharmaceutical industry, the promotion of exports of vaccines and drugs to non-traditional markets and of medical devices to Latin America, and the development of exportable supplies of biotech products.

Original: ProMexico.mx

ayarit this week became the third state in Mexico to allow modifications to birth certificates for gender identity reasons, acknowledging the right to legal equality for transgender people.

The modification to the state’s civil code was supported by 23 members of the local Congress; one voted against it and five abstained.

The reform will allow transgender people to request a change to a birth certificate at civil registry and municipal offices. The new law also stipulates that no civil registry judge will be able to deny requests for reasons of conscience. “. . . the request for gender identity change becomes an administrative procedure . . . bypassing procedures that questioned the identity of trans people and violated their human rights,” said the Democratic Revolution Party (PRD), one of the proponents of the reform.

That party’s national secretary for sexual diversity remarked that the modified law represents significant progress for a sector of the population that has been histo-

rically discriminated against and excluded from benefits granted by the Mexican state to the rest of society.

Michoacán approved a similar set of modifications to its civil code last week, to make it the second state to do so. Mexico City made changes three years ago. Since then, close to 2,000 birth certificates have been changed.

“We’re not only talking about an acknowledgement under civil law, we’re talking about the opportunity to simplify their lives in order to

obtain job and educational opportunities with nothing standing in the way of completing a legal procedure,” said Manuel Granados Covarrubias, legal advisor to the Mexico City government.

The procedure is available to all Mexican citizens and not just those who live in the capital, he said.

Over the last three years, for example, 150 requests were filed by citizens from Estado de México, 130 from Veracruz and 70 from Jalisco.

Original: MexicoNewsDaily.com

Mexico ranks 8th as most visited destination in the world

M

exico has officially increased a notch on the UN World Tourism scale as it takes over eighth place from Turkey.

According to figures from the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Mexico passed Turkey for tourism visits and is closing in on the United Kingdom with more than 38 million visitors last year.

Numbers show Mexico had an increase of several million visitors in 2016, while Turkey had a significant decrease; totaling only 28.3 million country visits last year. This takes Mexico from ninth to eighth place as the most visited country in the world.

Mexico has been on the rise for years as the country continues to move up in the ranks, even setting new records over the past few years.

Given the sometimes-stale Mexico-US relations, figures continue to show that visitors to Mexico from the United States increase each year.

Despite negative politics, about half of the 447 high-volume travel agencies surveyed this spring say that business is up by at least five

percent over the past year with repeat clients who have had great experiences visiting Mexico.

While Riviera Maya area (Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum)is the clear leader in country, other favorite Mexico destinations include Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit. Mazatlan, Merida and the Yucatan Peninsula were also popular while Mexico City and Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo and colonial cities were mentioned as being preferred destinations by about 5% of the travel agents.

Enrique Peña Nieto, president of Mexico, pointed out on his Twitter account that the country has also climbed positions in the Income by Tourist Activities ranking, going from 16 to 14 place.

“These numbers consolidate Mexico as a tourist global power.

Congratulations to all those who work in this sector and have made this possible”.

The United Kingdom, which holds seventh place, is currently only about 600,000 visitors ahead of Mexico.

news

Photos: Courtesy

07

August 3 - 9, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

The investment of 10 million pesos in preventive maintenance

The Marigalante a Vallarta’s iconic pirate ship T

he most famous pirate ship of Puerto Vallarta, the Marigalante, is sailing again in the Bay of Banderas after a complete remodel and newly designed shows.

After undergoing a 10 million peso maintenance and renovation in Mazatlan, Sinoloa, the Marigalante is back in the Bay of Banderas offering its day and night tours. Among the work completed was a new engine and generators, service to the transmission and propeller; total replacement of the bow and stern deck. They reinforced the keel, updated the look and feel of the public areas and reinstallation of dancing fountains and cold smoke machines. A complete facelift!

The boat is made of 100% wood and is an exact replica of the Santa Maria galleon, which was part of the Christopher Columbus expeditions. It has an approximate weight of 700 tons, includes three wooden masts with triangular sails and four

impressive decks with a total capacity of 240 passengers.

The Pirates of the Bay Evening tour is approximately 3.5 hours and includes a full dinner and open bar.

It tours the Bay of Banderas and offers a number of pirate shows, as well as a fireworks display.

During the day, the boat tour is six hours and includes a 2.5 hour stop at the stunning Majahuitas beach which is only accessible by boat and includes a treasure hunt, breakfast and lunch, open bar, beach activities, snorkeling, banana boat rides and more. The trip to and from Majahuitas beach is approximately 1.5 hours each way and includes the pirate themed entertainment that the Marigalante is renowned for.

In full disclosure, the Marigalate is co-owned by the parent company of the Vallarta Tribune. As such, we are able to offer discounted rates for both the day and evening tours – visit vallartatribune.com for more information and to book your tours.

La Marigalante is equipped to serve up to 300 people

Features of Marigalante La Marigalante is equipped to serve up to 300 people.

The ship includes for your safety and enjoyment: three pangas for the show and to aid in navigation and aquatic activities. Eight kayaks. Ten paddleboards for playing in the waves. Two inflatable bananas with a capacity of eight passengers, and 200 snorkel and fin

sets that are sanitized with each tour.

This summer the Marigalante will once again be one of Puerto Vallarta’s main tourist attractions with its refurbished boat and a refreshed pirate show.

More information on www.pirateshipvallarta.com

This summer the Marigalante will once again be one of the main tourist attractions in Puerto Vallarta

The boat is made of 100% wood and is an exact replica of the Santa Maria galleon

local

08

Paradise

Crispy and Crunchy Mexican Salads

G

rilled corn is a staple of summer cooking. Here in Mexico finding fresh sweet corn can be a challenge but the great thing is you can use canned for this recipe. Not unlike a cup of elotes you’ll find along the Malecon at night, here is a slightly more sophisticated version.

The sweet caramel flavor of the corn mixed with the tangy citrus make this a refreshing summer salad with all the flavors of Mexico.

Mexican Grilled-Corn Salad with Citrus Aïoli This sweet, salty corn salad is the perfect picnic side.

Bonus: You can make the aïoli the night before and fold it in right before serving.

Ingredients 10 ears of corn, shucked Salt Pepper 1/2 cup mayonnaise 1/2 teaspoon finely grated lime zest plus 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice 1/2 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest plus 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for brushing 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1 garlic clove, finely grated 1/8 teaspoon cayenne 4 tablespoons unsalted butter,

softened 2 ounces queso fresco, crumbled (1/2 cup) 2 ounces cotija cheese, finely crumbled (1/2 cup) 1/4 cup chopped parsley 1/4 cup chopped cilantro Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the corn and a generous pinch of salt and return to a boil. Remove from the heat, cover and let stand for 5 minutes. Drain the corn and let cool slightly.

Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk the mayonnaise with the lime and lemon zests and juices along with the 1 tablespoon of olive oil, the mustard, garlic and cayenne. Season the citrus aioli with salt.

Light a grill or preheat a grill pan. Brush the corn with olive oil and season with salt.

Grill over high heat, turning occasionally, until lightly charred all over, about 5 minutes.

Transfer to a plate and let cool slightly, then cut the kernels off the cobs; discard the cobs.

In a large bowl, toss the corn with the softened butter. Stir in the citrus aioli.

Add the queso fresco, cotija, parsley and cilantro. Season with salt and pepper and serve warm.

Make Ahead The aioli can be refrigerated overnight.

August 3 - 9, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

and Parenting Leza Warkentin

mommyinmexico.wordpress.com

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

Fifty Years of Marriage

T

his summer, on August the 4th to be exact, my parents will celebrate 50 years of marriage. My brother’s family and our family will celebrate with them by doing something that is their favorite: we will go to their favorite lake and spend a week in a cabin together. My brother and I are really quite glad because neither one of us are very good at planning parties. My sister-in-law is probably even gladder because, while she is great at planning parties, would have had to have planned one without a lot of useful help.

Fifty years, to me, is a very impressive number. If you can be married to someone for fifty consecutive years without at least developing some sort of twitch in your body, it’s incredible.

I love my husband more than my very own self and I am totally cool with fifty years with him, but there are some things I am definitely going to have to overlook.

Like the storytelling in Spanish that is SO FAST I have to ask him to repeat it in English and then I have to ask him to repeat it in Spanish again.

Like him estimating he’ll be done in about an hour when he’s facing a three hour job. And then taking five.

Like me explaining that we are taking an Air Canada flight, having him ask me five minutes later what airline we are taking, and then turning to the lady at the airport help desk and asking about the American Airlines flights.

Of course, on the flip side, he will have to put up with all of my little idiosyncrasies for the next forty-one years as well, but I’m sure that none of you are interested in hearing about those, as they are probably too trivial to be concerned about. Or because they

are probably too embarrassing for me to tell you about.

But my parents have done it, and it’s an amazing accomplishment.

The most amazing part is that they have modeled what it takes to live a successful marriage, and they continue to do so. So much of who I am as a person is because of my parents. And so much of what I now invest into my personal relationships is due to their daily commitment to their marriage and their family. Like: Fifty years of understanding that marriage isn’t 50/50. That raising a happy family isn’t a mathematical equation. That some days it takes all the efforts one person, and some days it takes the other, and most days it’s both. That the only acceptable number is 100% of yourself, no matter what the other person has to give.

Fifty years of respecting the other, especially when the children are watching. Never giving in to frustration and calling them out in front of the kids. Never humiliating the person who has committed to walking down this road with you, no matter how bumpy it gets.

Fifty years of parenting together, one parent walking the floor with a fevered baby all night, the other giving morning baking soda baths

during chicken pox season.

Ironically, I think I finally understood what it took to be a spouse when I walked away from my first marriage, in which I had failed so spectacularly it was almost a visible explosion. I had been very young when I had married my college sweetheart. But I hadn’t been younger than my own parents had been and thus I figured I would do quite well.

But I hadn’t figured in that I was very selfish, and hadn’t experienced anything in life that would equip me for giving 100% of myself to anyone. So I failed badly, and called my parents while sitting in the midst of all these broken pieces of a marriage that I had mostly smashed all by myself.

They got on two phone extensions and gently picked me up and dusted me off while we talked.

They didn’t necessarily agree on everything, because my dad was just desperate to make it better for his girl, and my mom wanted me to look into the mirror and learn something. But they somehow did this together, this putting me back together again. They did it in a way that only a pair of people could do who really knew what it meant to be married.

At the time, all I cared about was that they were on the other end of the phone and that I was still alive.

But eventually, as I built a new relationship with Gilberto, this model became the foundation of what I now understood about marriage.

Marriage isn’t a compromise.

Marriage isn’t just agreeing so you can live in peace. Marriage isn’t about the romance.

Marriage is about building a family. Marriage is about coming together when it counts. Marriage is wading, hand in hand, through the good times, the hard times, the worst times, and never letting go.

And that is something worth celebrating.

local

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August 3 - 9, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Creative

hands of Mexico Leigh Thelmadatter

osomadre@hotmail.com

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

Weaving in San Juan Cancuc, Chiapas

By Laramie Xico Garcia

N

estled in a highland valley about an hour outside San Cristóbal de las Casas, Chiapas, Mexico, lies the small community of San Juan Cancuc. The inhabitants are indigenous Maya and speak their indigenous language, mostly Tseltal. In the tradition of weaving and embroidery unique to each community, the people of San Juan Cancuc have their distinctive fashion emblazoned with bold, geometric patterns.

Many people in the community proudly wear their ancestral clothing.

Styles that have been passed down for generations can be seen being worn while passing through the small town center. However, these labor-intensive fashions take a lot of time to produce and are a high cost for locals. Because of this, locals opt to purchase more affordable clothes like jeans and

t-shirts. You see this change especially in the dress of the men.

The men of San Juan Cancuc wear long white tunics accented by incredible embroidery in fantastical colors. The bold designs cover the cuffs of the long sleeves and the chest area up to around the neck. A thin vertical line extends from the bottom edge of the design to the bottom edge of the garment. The best thing about this garment is that there are large holes under the sleeves that cut down the side slightly. These serve two purposes; when it’s cold you can fold your arms in the sleeves up inside across your chest and when it’s hot, you can remove your arms from the long sleeves and let them hang decoratively.

The women on the other hand wear short sleeve huipils, that have the chest and back blocked with a field of embroidered designs.

At the bottom of the embroidery block, there is one broad vertical line of design on each side of the block that continues down the length of the dress.

Spending an afternoon seeing how these garments are made is always an unforgettable trip.

Juana of San Juan Cancuc, Chiapas proudly shows us one of her complex designs We headed to San Juan Cancuc with a lovely woman I know from San Cristóbal, Marta. We headed to Marta’s sister-in-law’s home. Welcomed by Juana, who is a skilled weaver, and her lovely family, we get to pass the afternoon at their humble home located up a small path through the brush and trees. Here she demonstrates the unique style of weaving to San Juan Cancuc that incorporates embroidered geometric patterns.

Everything is made by hand on the Mayan backstrap loom.

This ancient technique has been passed down for generations.

In the simplest explanation, it involves a series of sticks that the thread is attached to. One end the threads are secured on the stick and then to a pole. The other end is attached to a piece of leather that wraps around the artisan’s waist at her lower back. The loom extends and hangs about six feet between the pole to her waist. Once the strap is attached, the base layer of the textile is started.

White thread is carefully woven between each thread from one side to the other. Once the thread is through, it is then pulled taut with

a long piece of a wooden wedge that is placed through the threads and pulled toward the maker. This process is repeated and you can see the textile begin to form.

As the main cloth is made, there comes a time to add the embellishments. This is where the embroidery technique begins. Juana carefully lays in rows of brightly colored thread. As she weaves each small section, she counts the threads as this is how she knows her design. She actually can’t see her design as she is making it because it is on the reverse side as she weaves. The rows of color begin to take shape as a grid of brightly colored blocks. Her elevenyear-old daughter, Juana, carefully watches her mother as she too is learning this art form.

The pattern design on the garments of San Juan Cancuc are easily recognizable. Intense hues with brilliant pinks and darker tones like deep purples and blacks are arranged in columns of color.

The younger generation can be seen experimenting with patterns including zig zag and floral motifs.

One of these woven pieces takes about three months to complete working on them partially throughout the day.

The weaving demonstration is punctuated by everyday life. The kids, shy at first, quickly warm up to me and Manuel de Jesus can’t get enough of the camera. They play around the yard and want to show us parts of their wonderful life.

Around the house, we discovered chicken coops, a rabbit pen, a small nursery where they are growing coffee plants, a beautiful little vegetable garden abundant with cabbage and plenty of wild edibles growing in the surrounding nature. Little Juana climbed one of the mango trees to pick us some delicious mangoes.

After spending time on the porch weaving with Juana, she prepared a local staple, pozol. This isn’t the

soup some of you might be thinking of. This is a traditional drink made with water and fermented masa (corn dough) – sometimes cacao is added for a different flavor. This drink is what the men drink before and after going out to work for the day instead of eating a regular meal. It is said to provide potent energy for the day’s work.

When Juana’s husband, Manuel de Jesus (not the junior mentioned earlier), returned from worked he greeted us and then the first thing he did was sit down for a large bowl of pozol. We then went to a small shed where he shared some of their honey that they’ve collected from their bees.

It was delicious and I took a small bottle home.

As it was time to end the day, Marta, her daughter and I headed back to San Cristóbal with some extra goodies besides woven goods. We left with honey, a branch of bananas, epazote, cabbage, a rabbit and a great appreciation for this amazing culture.

Special thanks to Mi Milpa Blog for allowing Creative Hands to reblog this post. It is an area of Mexico that is difficult for us to get to because of distance.

Laramie has better photography skills than I!

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From Here

Marcia Blondin

A

Medical Matters

and entrances through the theatre (no mean feat with those gowns and four-inch heels!) and direct involvement with the audience.

It was the most brilliantly funny production I have seen to date.

And when you read the press releases that mention the crazy fans that have seen Princesas many, many times? Yep, that’s me.

They have two more weekends only people, GO! Cheryl’s Shoebox’s Summer Bash is this coming Sunday, August 6th at Babel Bar on the Isla Cuale. It’ll be a great party for a great cause and don’t worry if it rains – the pavilion is covered and there’s lots of room under the roof!

Immigration Alert, part III I left off last week’s column knowing I had to go back to Immigration to be fingerprinted for my new Permanent Resident card.

That was scheduled for Monday, June 24. I went, was fingerprinted and paid my fine for not letting them know about my address change within the 90-day time limit.

Then, four days later (!), I received a letter advising me my card was ready to be picked up!

Because it was late Friday when I checked my email, I go Monday to receive the rest of my happy life in Mexico all encased in a simple plastic card… …and then it was done. I am immensely grateful to Lic. Ezechiel Alvarez Gudino, our head of Immigration, and his patient assistants including Wendy, Emma, Norma and Alvaro all of whom helped me. And fast!

Again, the kindness of the Mexican people – that touched me for the first time in 1986 - made the difference in my whole life today.

Muchisimas gracias…From Here.

Foods that are not recommended: Dairy: Whole milk, half and half, cream, sour cream, whole milk ice cream, yogurt with berries, dried fruit or nuts.

pamela@healthcareresourcespv.com

Grains: Whole wheat, whole wheat breads, rolls, crackers, pasta. Brown or wild rice, barley, oats, whole grains, whole grain cereals, bran, breads, cereals with seeds or nuts, popcorn.

Pamela Thompson operates HealthCare Resources Puerto Vallarta, a multi-faceted, independent, resource network that is here for your total health and well-being. We offer assistance to help find a physician, hospital and diagnostic service for any healthcare needs. www.healthcareresourcespv.com

Fruits: Raw fruits except bananas, melons, dried fruits including prunes, raisins, canned fruit in heavy syrup, prune juice.

Pam Thompson

marciavallarta@gmail.com

s promised last week, here’s the full report on “Let’s Have Dinner & Talk About Death” at Fusion Gourmet. First, the food was great, with three choices for each of the three courses. We were four tables of six so it was easy to chat intimately among ourselves and to discuss the questions put to us by hosts Michael Lindner and Joel Manning, the Directors of “Vallarta Hospice”, an important new service available in Vallarta.

It’s been 50 years since the word ‘hospice’ became a program (1967) to assist the terminally ill to die in peaceful, more home-like surroundings, and Michael and Joel will be offering that service and more, beginning with preventative care. There is plenty I must learn (and plan to) about Vallarta Hospice. So, stay tuned; when I know, you’ll know.

Opening night of Princesas Desesperadas at Incanto last Friday was packed to the rafters – maintaining PD’s perfect record of sold-out, SRO crowds. Doesn’t matter where it’s held; the play sells out. But now I am really thinking Teatro Degollado in Guadalajara. The four princesses know the script and each other so well they can – and do – ad lib with hysterical results. Results that included cracking each other up on stage to the point of being bent over and unable to speak; that set off a chain reaction that roared through the audience more than once, with convulsive, uncontrollable laughing jags.

I was a bit concerned about the size of Incanto’s stage, but Director Ramiro and Producer Alain made some interesting (and lovely) changes that included exits

August 3 - 9, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Diarrhea!

Part 1

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his is not a topic that one likes to chat about during cocktail hour or when one is out to dinner with friends (although I must admit, it certainly doesn’t bother some people to bring their diarrhea issues up with me when I am in a social setting for some reason), but it is most certainly a problem that many people suffer from chronically. And sure, I’ll step up to the plate and say yes, I am one of them.

I am not talking about acute diarrhea from an infection but an ongoing, long term problem caused by various reasons. So, we asked Dra. Mariana Esteva, one of our gastric physicians what she recommends about specific foods to eat, and to avoid for those with chronic diarrhea troubles.

She says to limit foods and beverages that contain sugar, lactose, fructose, high fructose corn syrup and sorbitol. Avoid beverages with caffeine. Eat a small meal or snack every 3 to 4 hours. Avoid spicy foods. My personal opinion?

B-O-R-I-N-G. Foods that are recommended: (and remember if your symptoms get worse after eating specific foods on this list, you should stop eating them!): Dairy: Buttermilk, evaporated, skim and low-fat milk, soy milk, yogurt with live active cultures, powdered milk, low-fat, part-skim and aged cheese. Note: If you have lactose intolerance drinking milk products may aggravate diarrhea!

Try lactose-free products.

Grains: Breads, bagels, rolls, crackers and pasta made from

white or refined flour, white rice, cream of wheat, cereals made from refined grains (puffed rice, cornflakes) without added fiber. Note: Choose grain foods with less than 2 gms of fiber per serving.

Fruits/Vegetables: Fruit juice without pulp, ripe bananas, melon, and most well cooked vegetables without seeds or skins, potatoes without skin, lettuce, strained vegetable juice.

Proteins: Tender, well-cooked meat, pork, poultry, fish, eggs or soy foods made without added fat, smooth nut butters (if tolerated).

Beverages: Water, decaffeinated coffee, decaffeinated tea, soft drinks without caffeine, rehydration beverages. Note: People need 8 to 10 cups of fluid per day. You may need to drink more to replace fluids lost to diarrhea.

Fats: Fats include oil, butter, cream, cream cheese, margarine, mayonnaise, salad dressings.

Note: Limit fats to less than 8 teaspoons per day.

Vegetables: Raw vegetables, fried vegetables, beets, broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, collard greens, corn.

Proteins: Fried meats, luncheon meats, sausage, bacon, hot dogs, nuts.

Beverages: Anything with caffeine, alcoholic beverages.

Other: Sugar alcohols such as xylitol and sorbitol, honey.

Obviously this is not anything written in stone! These are suggestions only and one should speak with a physician or a dietician to create a personalized diet. I have been thinking about putting together a “chronic diarrhea support group” and we can meet with our nutritionist and Dra. Mariana perhaps once a month and share ideas and suggestions. If anyone is interested, please send me an email!

Next week, we will cover an acute diarrhea diet!

Maybe I will see you in the sub-zero produce room at Costco!

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On the Road in Mexico Chuck Bolotin

Chuck.bolotin.writer@ bestplacesintheworldtoretire.com

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

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

Observations About Mexico

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ne of the objectives of our trip is to experience firsthand what it would be like to live in different environments abroad, irrespective of what we thought we knew beforehand. We dubbed it the “Try Everything So You Really Know What You’re Talking About and What You Like Tour”, or for short, “You Don’t Know Until You Go”.

Part of that experience was to get a feel for the locals. Herewith, our view of Mexicans and Mexican food.

Mexicans are Nicer Than Typical Americans in the US Virtually everyone you pass will say “hola”, or “Buenos dias / Buenos tardes / Buenos noches”, and it doesn’t seem to be perfunctory or insincere. Perhaps I’m just naïve, but I don’t think so. It doesn’t look

like they’re smiling just to try to sell me something. Why? Because in fact the vast majority wasn’t trying to sell me anything; they were just walking by.

Here are some other incidents I remember just in six weeks that cause me to come to this conclusion: We were walking on the beach in Tecolote just southeast of La Paz, and came across three young men and a young woman who were just setting up. It was probably obvious to them we were Gringos. In halting English, after saying hello, one of the men offered us a beer. When we demurred, he tried again. Finally, a bit exasperated, he brought out his trump card: “But it’s Tecate!”

We had driven to the parking lot of Baja Ferries to ask questions about taking our dogs. Two men in the car next to us had evidently seen our Arizona license plate (or us) and as soon as we got out of the car, one of them asked us in not perfect English if we needed any help. Was he employed by the ferry company? No. Was he in the hospitality industry or trying to sell us something? No. He was just an ordinary Mexican trying to help out

some evidently bewildered-looking people.

I went to ask the veterinarian in our very small town, Christian Pozo if he knew a place I could rent some kennels for our dogs because the ferry requires them.

He said he didn’t know any place to rent them, but they would probably be cheapest to buy at a members’ only big box store at which he was a member. When I told him I wasn’t a member, he told me he would buy them for us the next time he was there and we could just reimburse him for them. Would your vet do that for you? Later, when he discovered that I wasn’t clear on certain procedures on the ferry because I didn’t speak Spanish very well, he told me not to worry. He would call the ferry company the next day and ask them on our behalf. All I had to do was to come back and he would

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answer my questions, of course, at no charge.

When we were getting our visa paperwork, we had to find a store with Internet access, which we did. The clerk (who spoke close to zero English) an hour or so to help us understand the forms. (Did you know that if you’re from the US, your nationality is “Estadounidense”? I certainly didn’t.) When we tried to give her 50 pesos (less than US $3) for her trouble, she refused. It took us several additional minutes to talk her into it.

Mexican Food Mexicans really know how to cook. And bake. In the entire time we were in Baja and on the ferry, the only average meal we’ve had has been on the ferry, and for a ferry, it was pretty good.

The restaurants are fantastic, and, if you stay away from tourist places, you’ll pay almost embarrassingly low prices for great food.

Also, the portions are often slightly bigger than American portions.

The second best hamburger I ever had in my life was at Las Palmas, in La Ventana, for 70 pesos (about $3.75).

To her surprise and delight, my wife kept ordering fish she never would even have asked about in the States because it would have been “market price”; i.e., too expensive. 140 pesos (a little over $7) for yellowtail. 160 pesos (a little over $8) for sea bass.

Perhaps one of the reasons why the food is so good in Mexico is that it is so fresh and everything, it seems, is made to order. Even the tortillas are great, once again, almost certainly because they are so fresh. We became fans of a local

Second-quarter GDP up 0.6% Finance Secretariat could raise its 2017 growth forecast Economic growth rose during the second quarter, the biggest advance since the second quarter of 2014, the national statistics agency reported.

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exico’s Gross Domestic Product grew 0.6%, representing annual growth of 3%, up from 2.6% in the first quarter.

The growth was driven by the service sector, compensating for stagnant agricultural and industrial output, and was well above estimates of 0.2%.

The improvement confirms analysts’ predictions, the Financial Times reported, as the United States shows signs a more pragmatic and conciliatory approach to trade negotiations. Political turmoil in Washington has also boosted

tortilleria in La Ventana, where they showed us the production process and even let Jet try making some.

The prices in the restaurants are generally much lower in the non-Gringo places in Baja California than in the US and the prices at the supermarkets are just a little lower, so it’s almost cheaper to just eat at restaurants than to buy your food and cook it yourself.

One of the exceptions to this was one day, where at two different supermarkets, I saw a several elaborate and decadent cakes that looked to be maybe 10 inches to a foot in diameter, and about 5 inches tall for 50 pesos each (about $2.75).

Unfortunately, we could only eat one at a time. These were on sale, so the usual price was about double that, at just about $5.50. In addition to these silly prices for cakes, the pastries are great, and the cost is about 40% less than in the US. Don’t go to Mexico and expect to lose weight.

We have three words to describe the pastries we’ve had in Mexico: 1. Phenomenal 2. Cheap 3. I can’t wait to eat another one

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

confidence.

The peso rallied to a 15-month high of 17.45 to the dollar this month.

There might be an upward revision in the 2017 GDP forecast as a result, said the chief economist at

the Secretariat of Finance, Reuters reported.

The forecast was last revised in May, for growth between 1.5% and 2.5%.

Original: MexicoNewsDaily

Report it to the Department of Ecology at 322 160 3279

Enjoy this miracle of nature!

Featured Property of the Week

Tranquility and peace within the city VILLA OASIS – GRINGO GULTCH 5 bed, 4.5 bath, 5,100 sq. ft.

Asking $750,000 USD

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his landmark Gringo Gulch estate nestled along the Cuale River, showcases “postcard” views of the bay, river and Amapas hillside. Perfectly located on a charming cobblestone street, this enchanting home is a tranquil oasis within walking distance of all the great downtown attractions such as the Malecon, town square, colourful art galleries and gourmet restaurants. The incredible great room features beamed, vaulted ceilings, natural rock fireplace and a full-length covered terrace, overflowing with

bougainvillea and framing stunning views.

Perfect for entertaining, the

gorgeous chef’s kitchen boasts an over-sized center island, custom counters and cabinetry and

gorgeous Talavera tile accents.

The elegant dining area seats eight comfortably underneath an impres-

sive cupula.

The master suite is a haven of restful relaxation with lovely views of the pool and gardens.

A walk-in closet, spacious bathroom and attached den/ office make the space super functional. Upstairs is an incredible palapa covered entertainment area with panoramic 360’ degree views. The outdoor area features a tranquil courtyard with stunning crystalline swimming pool, it is a true tropical oasis. b o a r d w a l k r e a l t y p v. c o m / properties/villa-oasis/

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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How To Do Mexico’s Pacific Coast In 7 Days

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exico is known the world over for being one of the most vibrant, exciting and colourful holiday destinations.

In combining cultural traditions, stunning landscapes and high temperatures, it has become a must-visit for all keen travellers.

Mexico’s Pacific Coast remains a largely undiscovered gem, but the twin destinations of Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit are cultivating quite the name for themselves as the new Latin American hotspots.

With so much to do in the area, we have compiled the best way to spend 7 days in one of the world’s most beautiful destinations.

Stick to it completely; use it as inspiration; or just use it to help decide where you want to head to next. Just make sure you don’t miss out on these Mexican jewels.

Day 1: Art and Culture The Pacific Coast of Mexico is a cultural hotspot that provides the perfect start to your week in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit. Discover artistic activities and workshops on River Cuale Island, or head to artistic spots like galleries, theatres, museums and concert halls.

One particular highlight is San Pancho, the cultural capital of Riviera Nayarit with the Entre Amigos community centre, where you can buy art made from recycled materials or partake in activities learning the culture of helping the community.

Day 2: Street Food Tour Bucerias is a perfect area to get an authentic taste of Mexican life; its many beach side places like El Brujo, where you can

enjoy a cold Pacifico and cheese-crusted Shrimp tacos.

If you want to get really hands on, book a tour with Vallarta Food Tours, offering a catalogue of different excursions, from the Original Downtown Tour – a daytime walking tour exploring the best of the Centro and Old Town neighbourhoods – to the Bikes & Bites Tour – a 3-and-a-half hour cycling tour of the eight best food tasting locations.

For more information, visit http://vallartafoodtours.com/ Day 3: A Night as an A-Lister Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit are full of amazing hotels

and spell-binding restaurants.

Casa Velas (http://www.hotelcasavelas.com/) provides Luxury All-Inclusive stays for adults only in lush gardens on the edge of the beach, and the W Punta de Mita (http://www.wpuntademita. com/) guarantees opulent luxury with infinity pools and stunning cuisine.

Round out the night with a stroll along the port side to see the super yachts that dock regularly in Puerto Vallarta or with a spot of bar hopping in Sayulita.

Day 4: Snorkelling / Dolphins On the coast, you will have plenty of opportunities to take to

the water – from scuba diving and snorkelling to explore the magnificent marine life to swimming with dolphins and whale watching tours to create magical memories.

Day 5: Beach / Surf / Paddle Board After all that time in the water, why not try your hand ON the water with a spot of surfing or paddle boarding?

Water sports are plentiful throughout Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit’s 70km golden coastline.

Alternatively, relax on the soft sand and soak up the sun on their picture-perfect beaches.

Head up to Punta de Mita for surfing classes with Wildmex (http://wildmex.com/).

Day 6: Eco-tourism The Botanical Gardens of Puerto Vallarta features a wide collection of rare and local plants and vegetation, and the El Salado Estuary Tour is the perfect opportunity to spot wildlife, including crocodiles.

Meanwhile, Riviera Nayarit is home to 400 species of indigenous and migratory birds – La Tovara National Park in San Blas is an absolute must for nature lovers!

Day 7: Something a bit different Finish off your week in Mexico with a unique twist.

If Day 6 tickled your fancy with wildlife, then Riviera Nayarit offers an even more rewarding experience: the Baby Sea Turtle Release Mission, where thousands of sea turtles hatch along the coastline and head out to the Pacific Ocean.

For something more hair-raising, experience canopy zip lining adventures, ATV Adventure tours and rappelling down a rainforest waterfall!

For more ideas on how to spend a perfect week on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, go to visitpuertovallarta.com/ and www.rivieranayarit.com/.

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Feathered Residents – Chachalacas and other Birds

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urrounded by lush jungle views that will capture your soul, Puerto Vallarta and the Banderas Bay is an amazing environment to enjoy some bird watching. With 100’s of species, many endemic to the area, birdwatchingis a popular activity for thise who visit the area. Check in with your hotel’s tour agency and see if they offer birdwatching tours or hit the streets and jungle yourself. The sweet birdsong of resident parakeets, jays and mourning doves will provide a melodic backdrop to your excursion.

Chachalacas Perhaps one of the most remarkable feathered residents in Puerto Vallarta is the chachalaca, a brown galliformes bird that looks as though it could be a cross between a pheasant and a wild turkey. Although they are generally nervous around people, the tranquil atmosphere of the nearby jungles encourages them to let their guard down so sightings are quite frequent.

As you catch a glimpse of these splendid creatures, you will most likely observe the males high up in the trees where they feel they are king of the jungle as they look for berries, while the females typically position themselves lower in the trees or search the ground vegetation for food.

It is normal for the female to remain within a few feet of her male counterpart and she will eat a short time after the male. The pair will become even closer when the female is pregnant and they will often groom each other.

White Heron This majestic white heron (Garza Blanca in Spanish), for which the local vacation resort is named, is another happy inhabitant of the bay. They can often be seen amongst other water-friendly birds including seagulls and pelicans along the shoreline of the many beaches. Sunrise and sunset are

ideal moments to gaze out along the water to watch these wonderful birds dive after fish.

Parakeets While the parakeets that live throughout the jungle can be challenging to spot up close, you will definitely be able to view them from afar up high in the trees and enjoy their charming birdsong.

From there, you can view the male as he protects his nest, housing his female mate and their babies or eggs.

The jungle termites who create huge nests on the sides of trees are an important part of the local ecosystem; the adult parakeets can often be seen removing the termite nests and moving them close to their own nests where they can provide plenty of delicious termites to their baby parakeets.

Woodpeckers Another lovely bird to enjoy during a birdwatching tour is the woodpecker. While not always clearly visible through the jungle vegetation, you will see their handiwork everywhere you look with the holes they have made in several trees.

Woodpeckers are famous for the distinctive, noisy drilling they perform on tree trunks while searching for insects or constructing a nest.

Birdwatching Tours There are many fun expeditions through the spectacular jungle aimed at guests who appreciate studying wildlife amidst its natural surroundings, from complete novice to seasoned birdwatching enthusiast.

On most tours you will be taught how to detect particular birds just by listening to their songs and chirps while becoming aware of the calls of birds such as macaws and jays. Your guide should also bring attention to any visible nests for viewing and show you specific fruits and berries that are essential to the birds’ diets.

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

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Mascota – A step back in time

By Madeline Milne

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he town of Mascota is a short two-hour drive from Puerto Vallarta, 103 kms into the mountains behind the Bay of Banderas, where it’s a little cooler and there is almost no humidity.

Located in the state of Jalisco, the town has a population of about 14,000 and is primarily based on agriculture. Settled by the Spanish around 1530, Mascota has a long history that predates the Spanish by at least 2,000 years.

From Puerto Vallarta, driving north towards Bucerias, you take the Ixtapa exit just past Home Depot, and drive straight. You literally can’t get lost if you stay on that road. The drive takes you through the town of Ixtapa, past the local jail, through a number of small towns and ranches. The scenery is verdant, with rolling hills, lush farmland, and thick jungle. As you climb the mountain, the jungle disappears and the higher altitude pine and oak forests start to emerge.

This is one of my favourite landscapes and makes me nostalgic for my childhood home near the Okanagan Valley.

Just before the town of San Sebastian del Oeste there is an impressive bridge that spans a drop of over 1000 meters. I recommend stopping and walking to the middle of the bridge just to see how far a kilometer looks from above.

Once you get back on the road you are about 30 - 45 minutes outside of Mascota.

We stayed at Rancho Esmeralda, which is at the entrance to the town. Situated in a rural farm setting, with a number of charming cabins, an outdoor pool and amenities set among fields and surrounded by the embracing mountains. Rancho Esmeralda is set up for self-sufficiency and you should at the least bring snacks

and beverages to tide you over in the morning and evening. It is a great place for families, reunions, or even romantic vacations. Each cabin is set far enough apart for privacy and all come with lovely verandas where you can drink your locally roasted coffee and watch the birds in the morning.

There are a handful of other charming hotels further through the centre of town. All seem to be built in the hacienda style, with inner courtyards. They range from $400 to $1000 pesos a night and may, or may not, include breakfast.

None are particularly modern and quite a few are extremely old dating back hundreds of years. It’s worth stopping in and viewing the inner courtyards and rooms, even just to see the architecture and rustic way of life in years past.

Early in the morning on our way to check out some of the surrounding towns, we stopped at an inviting café just off the main plaza and I had one of the best mochas ever, along with a perfect coconut cookie. Around the main plaza there are a number of coffee shops, most selling locally grown coffee and fresh baked galletas.

We decided to hit the road early to visit the towns of Yerbabuena and Navidad. Heading out of town towards Guadalajara, as you reach

the Pemex, you can stay right and head to GDL or you can lean left and head towards a number of smaller towns. They are only a few kilometers from Mascota along a tight one-lane road that in rainy season should encourage you to exercise caution.

Yerbabuena is as cute as they come. About two kilometers from Mascota, the town is clearly enjoyed by the affluent weekenders from Guadalajara and the grand homes are all set with clay tile roofs and stone foundations.

The tiny plaza has a lovely rose garden and the church is postcard perfect. Apparently there is a very good restaurant along the river but it was early and we had our coffees in hand. Next time.

From Yerbabuena, we carried on to Navidad. This village was settled years ago by French immigrants escaping religious persecution and today the population is tall and slender with fair hair and light green or blue eyes. The town itself is extremely small (pop. 230) and appealing with some interesting mural work at the entrance to the town. We stopped for a short time to visit the plaza and church, which was renovated in the 1980s, and clearly looks like it was renovated in the 80s.

We headed back to Mascota,

taking in some spectacular vistas of volcanoes, valleys, and farmland.

Once in town we stopped at the Museo Estatal de Arqueología.

It is co-sponsored by National Geographic and is very well done.

As is to be expected in a Spanish speaking country, the displays are entirely in Spanish. I thought we were out of luck but thankfully we were found by the only English speaking guide, who was pleased to share his knowledge and practice English with us.

The most prestigious item in their collection is a cut quartz that was exhumed from a burial site found by a local farmer. The quartz is fascinating because it is likely the earliest known cut stone in Latin America and believed to be 5,000- 8,000 years old. The hole that has been drilled through the stone suggests it comes from another culture as the technique is not known in this region – or really anywhere at this point in history.

The placement of the stone signifies its value among the people of the valley who lived here approximately 2,500 year ago.

Personally, I found the exhibit on the petroglyphs absolute fascinating. Unfortunately we were short on time when we learned of their existence. On my next visit – and there will be many – I intend

to spend the day hiking around looking at the petroglyphs.

There is something so tangible about seeing rock carvings that it gives me thrills up my spine. This is one of the most prolific petroglyph sites in Mexico. There are also some fascinating cave paintings in the vicinity.

Having asked around about things we should definitely check out, the Casa de las piedras kept coming up. Just around the corner from the Museum of Archeology, we had the extreme pleasure of visiting with the artist, curator and local resident Señor Francisco Peña. For the past twenty-five years, he has made it his life’s work to cover his home in the stones that he collects from the river. He sorts them based on size and colour and then applies them to everything.

Literally everything, including his bed, the television, the fish tank, the telephone. He is a charming man who speaks wonderful English and will warmly invite you to enjoy his creations. A town treasure, Francisco also has an impressive collection of archival photographs of Mascota and he writes books on local history and genealogy. Very likely this will be the best $10 pesos you have ever spent.

We then moved on to the Temple de la Preciosa Sangre which is an unfinished ruin of a church that was to be built in the late 1800s for the local residents of the town, who had been pushed out of the central church by the newly arriving Spaniards. The ruins feel otherworldly and ancient, with crumbling mortar, winding flowering vines, and the setting sun dappling the walls through the overgrown trees. It seemed as though the castles and churches of my imagined Narnia had come to life.

For a late lunch we headed to Laguna de Juanacatlan home to the world’s largest mocajeta. A molcajete is a lava stone mortal

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Nuevo Vallarta Is Among The 40 Friendliest Cities In Latin America

E and pestle that you can purchase in many tianguis (markets) throughout Mexico. Typically used to grind the ingredients for salsa, it is also used to serve a widely varied dish called Mocajete, which is similar to fajitas but served in an oven-baked mocajeta.

After climbing into the giant mocajeta for some ‘crazy’ photos, we sat down and enjoyed a delicious meal. Just a few weeks before rainy season, the lake was quite dry, but some imagination and the clearly visible, high water mark

suggests the lake laps the base of the restaurant patio.

Satisfied with our meal, we headed back to Rancho Esmeralda where the sun was setting on the valley and the golden hues added vibrancy to the landscape. This valley was a culture-sustaining paradise for thousands of years before the Spanish arrived, and today continues to nourish the local communities.

A visit to Mascota and the nearby towns is highly recommended for those of you who enjoy

driving the back roads. Spanish would be helpful but not necessary, as signs are well marked and a polite smile will get you a helping hand, if needed. Bring a phrase book and prepare your maps prior to setting out, as cell phone service can be spotty in the mountains.

Mexico is much more than the strip of sand around Banderas Bay; the ancient cultures here rival anything you will find elsewhere in the world and are worthy of your exploration.

August Events In Riviera Nayarit The Corn Festival in Jala and Xalisco; the Gastronómica kick off with its group of top chefs; the Grupo Delfin convention; and the Pee Wee Surfing League en Sayulita and San Blas are the top events this month.

Summer is here and it’s a great time in the Riviera Nayarit to enjoy sports, science, culture and culinary events.

The Groups desk of the Riviera Nayarit Convention and Visitors Bureau is lending its support to the following activities: La Patrona Atlético de

Madrid Football Camp (July 17 to August 11) Spain’s Club Atlético de Madrid will be holding a Summer Camp - San Pancho Campus in the Riviera Nayarit at the La Patrona Polo Club (July 17 – August 11). This will include four weeks of training for kids and teens.

Corn Festival (August 6-15) A visit to Jala and Xalisco this August can be a great way to experience the Riviera Nayarit and its traditions.

Located just a short distance from the coast of Nayarit, the communities of Jala and Xalisco plan all sorts of events including

dances, entertainment, horse races and cockfights. The festivities originated with the celebration of Our Lady of the Assumption and in Jala the biggest ear of corn wins a prize.

Gastronómica Kick Off (August 14-16) Top chefs both domestic and international unite in this culinary event that will be held within the Vidanta complex.

Big names in Mexican gastronomy include chefs Paco Roncero, known for his mastery of Spanish vanguard cooking; Aaron Mizrahi and Elías Sapién, both banquet pros; and Betty Vázquez,

xpedia.mx published its yearly list, compiled thanks to recommendations from the travelers themselves, placing the Riviera Nayarit’s nautical neighborhood at no. 8 in the ranking.

Nuevo Vallarta was included in the list of the 40 Friendliest Cities in Latin America at no. 8 thanks to the positive comments by users of the online travel agency, Expedia.mx.

In addition to the recognitions garnered over the past four years, Nuevo Vallarta can now add that of Expedia, which is even more special as it was obtained by recommendation of travelers from around the world. The parameters included hotel staff service as well as factoring in hospitality, comfort and relaxation.

“Latin America is known for the warmth and hospitality of its people,” stated Expedia in the article that accompanied the list of the 40 Friendliest Cities in Latin America.

“Not only that, but its beautiful scenery, natural bounty and delicious traditional dishes make a vacation anywhere on the continent a perfect pairing with local hospitality.”

In that aspect, this nautical residential neighborhood isn’t lacking at all. The development was designed to offer the tourist a luxurious experience without losing the destination’s innate warmth.

At approximately 3 miles long, its exclusive beaches are lined with plush apartments, golf courses and elegant restaurants, and it’s home to over half of the destination’s avai-

the Riviera Nayarit’s Culinary Ambassador.

Grupo Delfin National Convention Program (August 16-19) The National Convention for Scientific and Technological Research of the Pacific is derived from the Inter-Institutional Program to Strengthen Research and the Pacific Graduate Program, and is also known as the Delen Program.

The Delen Program is focused on strengthening the culture of collaboration between centers of higher education and the research centers that are part of the Program via an exchange with professors, researchers and students and the distribution of scientific and technological

lable hotel rooms. Every year Nuevo Vallarta hosts events that welcome an important number of tourists, among them the Riviera Nayarit Half Marathon and 10K, the International Beach Polo Cup, the Laser World Championship, and the Celebrity Golf tournament, among others.

It also boasts a series of firstclass environmental awards and recognitions, including: Blue Flag Certification: It was received in 2013, for Playa Nuevo Vallarta Norte.

This was the first of its kind for a beach in the Riviera Nayarit. Nuevo Vallarta Sur and Nuevo Vallarta Norte I and II each also received a Clean Beach certificate.

EarthCheck Certification: Nuevo Vallarta received the EarthCheck Silver Certificate in August of 2016, once its audit had been completed.

During the same period hotels including Grupo Vidanta, Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta, Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit and Grand Palladium also received an EarthCheck certification.

Clean Tourism Destination: Once again, Nuevo Vallarta brought recognition to the Riviera Nayarit by becoming the first certified Clean Tourism Destination in Mexico, an honor bestowed by the Federal Environmental Protection Agency (Profepa) thanks to its excellent work with Integrated Water Resources Management, Integrated Solid Waste Management, Urban Infrastructure and Natural Resources.

programs.

Some 3,500 attendees are expected to be staying in the destination’s hotels in the area of Nuevo Vallarta.

Sayulita Pee Wee Surfing League (August 19) Sayulita will host this youngsters’ surfing league, which encourages new talent in a sport that has produced big names on a national level.

San Blas Pee Wee Surfing League (August 26) On August 26 it will be San Blas’ turn to receive this traveling tournament, which visits the different seaside villages along the coast of Nayarit in an effort to discover new talent in this extreme sport.

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August 3 - 9, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Yelapa: A quaint town south of Puerto Vallarta

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ucked away on the southern end of Banderas Bay is a charming town just waiting to be explored. Yelapa, which means “the place of gathering” is a quaint fishing village just a short distance from the shores of downtown Puerto Vallarta. This magical village, home to fewer than 600 inhabitants, is the perfect destination for a day trip while staying in Puerto Vallarta and Banderas Bay. The best thing about this secluded town near Puerto Vallarta is its pure simplicity. In Yelapa, time seems to stand still; and while there are a myriad of exciting things to do, the majority of people who visit seek out rest and relaxation.

It’s not uncommon to see visitors and locals strewn about on hammocks and lounge chairs, soaking up the sun and sipping on raicilla, a local alcoholic beverage.

As you enter the small cove where the village is located, you’ll have the perfect view of Yelapa’s small beach scattered with oversized palapas and friendly faces.

After just a few moments in the friendly town, you will become abundantly aware of the tranquility that surrounds you.

Without a car, alarm clock or salesman in sight, you’ll find the peace and tranquility of yesteryears.

Although the people of Yelapa do have access to all the modern technologies that most have become

accustomed to, their dependence on such devices is minimal.

The result – an abundance of positivity and sheer happiness.

As you venture around town, you’ll notice a series of narrow, winding streets and footpaths that seem to lead in all directions. Ask around and you’ll find your way to

the cascading waterfall that is the backdrop to the city.

Take the road less traveled and get lost in the natural beauty that abounds, or simply walk along the coast and watch the fisherman as they bring in the day’s catch.

However you spend your time in Yelapa, one thing’s for sure, you’ll

leave a changed individual.

Getting to Yelapa is fairly easy considering there are no direct roads leading there. Water taxis do, however, leave quite frequently from the shores of Boca de Tomatlan, a small village just 30 minutes from Puerto Vallarta. Hail a panga taxi and enjoy the view as

you pass along the southern coast of Banderas Bay; likewise, the tour agency at your hotel can organize a picturesque tour.

As the wind blows through your hair and the palm peppered mountains pass you by, take a deep breath and prepare yourself for pure mental repose.

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August 3 - 9, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Yelapa: Un Majestuoso Poblado al Sur de Puerto Vallarta

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bicada en el extremo sur de la Bahía de Banderas, esta linda ciudad aguarda ser explorada: Yelapa, cuyo nombre significa ” lugar de encuentro”, es un pintoresco pueblo pesquero que se encuentra ubicado a poca distancia del centro de Puerto Vallarta. Este mágico sitio, hogar de poco menos de 600 habitantes, es el destino perfecto para disfrutar un día de excursión durante tu visita a Puerto Vallarta y Bahia de Banderas.

Lo más sobresaliente de esta apartada ciudad es la simplicidad y sencillez de sus costumbres y estructuras.

En Yelapa, el tiempo parece haberse detenido; y si bien hay una gran cantidad de cosas interesantes que hacer, la mayoría de las personas que la visitan van en busca del descanso y la relajación.

No es extraño encontrar a propios y extraños mientras reposan tendidos en hamacas y tumbonas, tomando el sol y bebiendo raicilla, una bebida alcohólica local.

Desde el momento mismo en que penetras en la pequeña caleta donde se ubica este pueblecito, puedes observar el panorama perfecto de la pequeña playa de

Yelapa, salpicada de palapas de gran tamaño y caras afables.

Después de pasar unos instantes en esta amistosa ciudad, podrás darte cuenta de la pacífica tranquilidad que te rodea. Sin un solo coche, despertadores o vendedores a la vista, aquí podrás encontrar la paz y la tranquilidad de antaño.

Aunque el pueblo de Yelapa tiene acceso a todas las tecnologías modernas a las que la mayoría estamos acostumbrados, la dependencia a este tipo de dispositivos es mínima.

Como resultado, encontrarás un ambiente positivo generalizado y felicidad absoluta.

Conforme te vas aventurando por la ciudad, descubrirás una serie de senderos y calles estrechas y sinuosas que parecen llevarte en todas direcciones.

Pregunta a cualquiera y podrás encontrar el camino que te lleva hasta la cascada, que es el telón de fondo de la ciudad.

Toma el camino menos transitado y piérdete en la imponente belleza natural que prolifera por todas partes, o simplemente disfruta de una caminata a lo largo

de la línea costera y observa mientras los pescadores regresan con la pesca del día.

De cualquiera de las maneras que elijas pasar el tiempo en Yelapa, una cosa es segura, regresarás a casa notando un cambio positivo en tu persona.

Llegar a Yelapa es bastante sencillo, teniendo en consideración que no existen caminos que

te lleven hasta allí. Sin embargo, los taxis acuáticos salen con frecuencia de las costas de Boca de Tomatlán, un pequeño pueblo ubicado a trente minutos de Valalrta.

Pide una panga-taxi y disfruta de las espectaculares vistas a medida que viajas a lo largo de la línea costera del sur de la Bahía de Banderas; así mismo, la agencia

de viajes de su hotele puede organizar un pintoresco paseo para ti.

Conforme sientes el viento soplar por tu cabello y contemplas la belleza de las montañas salpicadas de palmeras, puedes respirar profundamente, y prepararte para disfrutar de un día lleno de paz y tranquilidad en Yelapa: un remanso para el bullicioso y alocado ir y venir de la ciudad.

VALLARTA SHOPPING AND SERVICES

FCA. Rodríguez #168 Puerto Vallarta, Jal. TEL: (322) 222 4793 COL. Emiliano Zapata C.P. 48380 www.hotel-mercurio.com

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

Pandamonia Boutique

BEACH BABES Cover ups ~ Pillows Wine Bags ~ Totes Three Hens & A Rooster Market V. Carranza 466 Saturdays 9 to 1 Contact Pat Thunherst Wagner at ptwagner@comcast.net

Sherry Vallarta HOME DE’COR

Personal Shopper

Buy & Sell ~ Anything & Everything

sherryvallarta@yahoo.com 044 322 137 7063

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

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

mexicasupplement@gmail.com Hand-made Mexican Tiles, Talavera, Saltillo, Mosaico

Marsol Friday Market by the Pier

T 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

he “Pier Street”, Francisca Rodriguez, is home to important businesses including Hotel Mercurio on the ‘other’ side of Olas Altas. Archie’s Wok, one of the first restaurants established in Vallarta and the Marsol Hotel, built more than 50 years ago, are on the beach side of Olas Altas.

Every Friday we celebrate the history of our street with a small Summer Market that becomes packed with vendors and visitors during the winter.

For now, shopping is a leisurely stop on the way to the beach or back from a walk to the end of our magnificent pier; you’ll find us close to the front door in the lobby of the Marsol Hotel.

Talk to David, a goldsmith by trade, now making his designs in more affordable silver. He can

www.vallartatribune.com

Three Hens & A Rooster Market News Adorable Dog In The Spotlight... Milo

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hat on earth is a Jackfruit?

Practically anything you want it to be! A new addition to Three Hens, Chef Juan Ortega brings astonishingly tasty frozen entrees you would swear were prepared with beef, chicken or pork but, guess what? Pure jackfruit – loaded with proteins and vitamins. Try it; you’ll like it!

Pat is catering to Beach Babes this week offering cover-ups (and loads of other women’s plussize clothes in her Pandemonia Boutique), tote bags and more.

Bill Kelly of Fab Fabric Fellows has made some darling big-dog cooling ties. Pure cotton with lots of wild patterns to choose from.

Remember to get one for yourself and be as cool as your pooch on the beach.

Mark Hughes, the long, lanky Pie Guy, originally from Scotland, makes sweet and savoury pies and the most delightful quiches in all Vallarta.

Small servings are now available from Gloria Sue’s cozy Jewish eatery at the front entrance to Three Hens. Try Lolita’s incredible pastries every Market day and remember Lola joins Gloria Sue during the week.

Tee shirts and coffee; sausages and jewelry; perogies and jam/ honey and bagels; paintings, herbs and peanut brittle, fishing tours and bamboo scarves…

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

by Janice Gonzalez

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hat a cute boy he is and full of energy! Milo is a Rat Terrier mix, just two years old and weighing a bit over 13 pounds. He loves his playtime with other dogs regardless of age or size and he is even okay with

SPCA of Puerto Vallarta

By Janice Gonzalez

O

gue…a roll-on disinfectant, antifungal, anaesthetic and more.

Roll this amazing herbal extract on burns or insect bites for immediate relief. It kills arthritic pain in joints, will instantly numb gum/tooth pain and give you sweet-smelling breath while boosting your immune system!

Andrea of La Dulce Vida presents zucchini bread and cupcakes often loaded with Baileys (!). Andrea can make any kind of cake – for your kid’s birthday party or your daughter’s wedding day – talk to her; she is delightful in two languages!

Marcia presents new silk collars, fabulous “Mixto” earrings and “Flairs” – feathers for your hair. enlarge your silver rings or explain the stampings that are required

by Mexican law you will find on all

cats. Milo is very sweet with his humans and loves some lap time after his exercise.

Milo has been neutered, dewormed and vaccinated.

If a lively little guy sounds like the perfect addition to your family, contact us at spcapv@gmail.com for an application.

silver jewelry.

Ricardo has perfected yet another formula using Chilcua-

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

ur good friend Clare Leach has been busy during these hot/humid summer months and has developed another community sponsor. We welcome our newest sponsor Dra. Patricia Garcia and thank Clare for her tireless efforts on our behalf. Here’s what Clare reports regarding our new sponsor: Dra. Patricia Garcia is our newest business sponsor. She is a Dermatologist. She specializes in Melanoma and skin cancer and other skin disorders as well as full screening and evaluation. Dra. Patricia, as her patients call her says, “Dermatology is a profession that allows me to help my patients, not only when they are sick but on a prevention level so they stay healthier. In Vallarta I have found the best kind of patients, I feel we are all a kind of brotherhood. I think just like the eyes are the window to the soul...Dermatology is like the window of our body. I love my job.”

Dra. Patricia has one rescue dog and hopes to have another in the future. “I believe it is our responsibility to take care of these precious animals, to spay and neuter and love them.” Dra. Patricia Garcia Gutierrez, Dermatologist, at Rio Tiber #202. Co Fluvial. Phone: 322 293 7552.

The SPCAPV has started a new opportunity for businesses to contribute and become sponsors.

We thank all our sponsors who are dedicated to making a difference.

If you are interested in helping, write to clare23leach@gmail.com to join us.

During these hot summer months, we have limited tours of our sanctuary. If you are interested, reservations to visit the sanctuary need to be made in advance. To make a reservation, contact us at spcapv@gmail.com. We appreciate any donations you can bring for our rescues and also please feel free to bring treats for sanctuary staff as they truly appreciate it.

To see our animals available for adoption, visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/spcapv.

Go to Photos where you will also find individual Albums for all the animals available as well as a bit of their history. Please be aware that our adoption fee within Mexico is $1,500 pesos.

To make donations via PayPal, select the “Donate” option on our Facebook page www.facebook. com/spcapv or on our website at http://spcapv.com/donate/.

You can drop off any donations for the SPCA at Hacienda San Angel located at Calle Miramar 336, above Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in El Centro.

Get involved…rescue, adopt, foster, volunteer, donate or educate.

You can learn more about the SPCA Puerto Vallarta by checking us out at www.spcapv.com/home or on Facebook.

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August 3 - 9, 2017 www.vallartatribune.com

Ingrid Bergman: A Classic International Actress Part 1

By Fred Jacobs

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ngrid Bergman was born on August 29, 1915, in Stockholm, Sweden. Her father was a Swedish artist and photographer and her mother was German, with a reported Jewish family line. Her mother’s lineage was needed to be kept secret as the political climate in Europe was quickly changing.

Ingrid’s mother died when Ingrid was only two years old, and her father passed away when she was just thirteen. Her father had wanted Ingrid to become an opera star, and had her take voice lessons for three years, before he passed away. But Ingrid always “knew from the beginning that she wanted to be an actress,” sometimes wearing her mother’s clothes and staging plays in her father’s empty studio.

While living with an aunt and uncle, Ingrid received a scholarship to the Swedish state-sponsored Royal Dramatic Theatre School, where Greta Garbo had also earned a similar scholarship some years earlier. After several months at the Academy, Ingrid was given a part in a play, even though this was totally against the rules at the school, where girls were expected to complete three years of study before getting acting roles.

During her first summer vacation from the school, Ingrid was hired by a Swedish film studio, which led to her leave the Royal Dramatic Theatre after just one year, to work in film full-time. Her first film role was a small part in “Munkbrogreven” (1935). Between 1935 and 1939, Ingrid would go on to act in a dozen films in Sweden and make quite the name for herself there.

Then Hollywood came knocking. Ingrid’s first acting role in the US, came when famed Hollywood producer David O. Selznick brought her to America to star in “Intermezzo: A Love Story” (1939), which

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husband of two years and their one year old daughter behind.

Ingrid’s first film in the US, would become a huge success, but nonetheless, Ingrid returned to Sweden for a while. But in 1941, with World War II in full swing, Ingrid made one last film in Sweden and then

returned to the US. She made three more films that same year, “Adam Had Four Sons”, “Rage in Heaven” and “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde”, all well received and box office successes.

In 1942, Ingrid Bergman would take on one of the most successful roles in her career when she

Where can I find the Vallarta Tribune?

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

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was an English language remake of her earlier Swedish film “Intermezzo” (1936). Ingrid did not speak English and was uncertain about her acceptance by the American audience. She actually expected to make this one film and return home to Sweden, where she had left her

co-starred with Humphrey Bogart in the cinematic classic “Casablanca” (1942). The film was a huge hit and won three Oscars at the 16th Academy Awards, including a statue for Best Picture.

In 1943, Ingrid played the part of Maria in the film version of the Ernest Hemingway novel “For Whom the Bell Tolls”, which was also her first color film. When the book rights were sold to Paramount Pictures, Hemingway stated that “Miss Bergman, and no one else should play the part of Maria” even though he had never met Ingrid in person at that point.

His opinion came from only seeing her in a single American film. A few weeks later, the two did actually meet, and after studying her, Hemingway said, “You are Maria!” The film was a huge hit with critics and movie goers alike.

For the role, Ingrid received her first Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.

The following year, Ingrid appeared in the psychological thriller, “Gaslight” (1944) opposite Charles Boyer. Again it was a huge hit and Ingrid won her first Oscar statue, for Best Actress. Bergman next played a nun in “The Bells of St. Mary’s” (1945) opposite Bing Crosby, for which she received her third consecutive nomination for Best Actress.

Ingrid then made a series of films with none other than the master, Alfred Hitchcock. Ingrid starred in his films “Spellbound” (1945), “Notorious” (1946), and “Under Capricorn” (1949). In 1948, Ingrid took on the lead role in “Joan of Arc” (a role she had previously played on Broadway in 1947 and also received a Tony Award for) and earned herself another Oscar nomination for the film version role.

Next week, we’ll look at Ingrid’s continued rising star and how an Italian scandal would shake her career from Hollywood to Washington D.C. Fred Jacobs is a full time resident of Puerto Vallarta and the author of three books.

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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