Issue 1090, February 22 - 28, 2018 by Vallarta Tribune

entertainment

Amberley Beatty stars as Patsy Cline at Incanto Page 18

Events

Chili Cook-Off this weekend at El Rio BBQ Page 26

Polo Anyone? La Patrona opening for dinner Page 28

February 22 - 28, 2018 Year 20 Free Issue 1090

FR EE

GU ID E

VallartaTribune.com

riviera nayarit

18th Annual San Pancho Music Festival this weekend

CROSSWORD paGE 37

VALLARTA SHOPPING paGES 34-35

EVENTS CALENDAR PAGE 25

AN AMERICAN FARCE

Whose Wives are They Anyway? by Michael Parker

COMEDY DINNER THEATRE FOR CHARITY FEB 27 & 28, MARCH 2, 4, 6 & 7 5 evening performances, 1 matinee on March 4 Restaurante Langosta DIEZ, La Cruz Centro DONATION TICKET PRICES: front row table reserved 800MXN, general table 600MXN, theatre seating 300 MXN Proceeds go to benefit Amigos de La Cruz de Huancaxtle, A.C.

AMIGOS

DE LA CRUZ

To buy tickets and for more information visit:

www.amigosdelacruz.org PRODUCED BY SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT WITH SAMUEL FRENCH, INC.

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 editor@vallartatribune.com Designer Cynthia E. Andrade G. cysandra@gmail.com

February 22 - 28, 2018 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 AZAMARA QUEST 694 03/02/2018 COSTA LUMINOSA 2,826 04/02/2018 RUBY PRINCESS 3,782 06/02/2018 CARNIVAL SPLENDOR 3,200 07/02/2018 CORAL PRINCESS 1,974 07/02/2018 OOSTERDAM 1,848 08/02/2018 GRAND PRINCESS 2,600 10/02/2018 RUBY PRINCESS 3,782 13/02/2018 CARNIVAL SPLENDOR 3,200 14/02/2018 OOSTERDAM 1,848 15/02/2018 GRAND PRINCESS 2,600 20/02/2018 CARNIVAL SPLENDOR 3,200 21/02/2018

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 February Puerto Vallarta welcomes 36,602 passengers! NAME PASS DATE OOSTERDAM 1,848 22/02/2018 CARNIVAL SPLENDOR 3,200 28/02/2018

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

editorial

Editor’s

DO YOU REALLY NEED

Note

editor@vallartatribune.com

We welcome your letters, if they’re not rude!

have so much to say this week and have been struck down by what seems to be gearing up to be a nasty flu… There are a couple of events this week that need a shout out and then I'm off to bed! It’s the chili cook-off at EL Rio BBQ and Bar up in Paso Ancho. One of my fave venues for its natural beauty and delicious ribs. This Saturday for 250 pesos you get to sample all the chili you’d like and vote for your favorite. You also get an order of riblets and a drink. There is live music and a raffle for two bottles of Patron. All the details are in this week's newspaper. The event supports the Jay Sadler Project which in turn supports the children in the community. Don't forget to wear your chili eatin’ boots. It is the 18th Annual San Pancho Music Festival all weekend. The music takes place on two stages and starts at 5pm each night. This event continues to grow each year and attract local and international talent. And San Pancho is a cool little town – check it out! The schedule is in this week’s pages.

February 22 - 28, 2018 www.vallartatribune.com

THAT STRAW?

Last week was another busy one. My husband and I celebrated Valentine's Day with the 51 children of Corazon de Niña and all the other guests at the Open Your Heart Gala. What Melissa and Juan and all the volunteers continue to do for these children is nothing short of inspiring. Watching the kids dance and interact with the guests, I couldn’t help but lament how anyone couldn’t love and protect them enough; they are all so beautiful and full of life. It was a very humbling experience. Corazon de Niña has regular fundraising events including a humanitarian brunch every Tuesday, a monthly breakfast at the Marriott and coming up in March a Garden Party – Art Auction. And on Sunday we went to the What a Drag event, now in its fourth year, the organizers had to move venues to accommodate everyone who wanted a ticket. Over 500 attendees cheered on six straight men who went full-drag to compete in the name of charity. It is as hilarious as you think it is! But more so, almost 900,000 pesos were raised in one evening to support the Banderas Bay Woman’s Shelter. If you don’t know the shelter, you should. It is the only one between here and Guadalajara and the one in GDL is only open part-time. It helps women and their children get their lives back from abusive husbands, fathers, and family. In the

past few years, they have rehomed 50 women and 250 children including providing housing, counseling, job training, education and more. The work they do is phenomenal, but a drop in the bucket of what is truly needed in this country. Please support them in any way you can. Finally, Cat Morgan's article really rattled some keyboards last week. A flurry of emails hit my inbox like a sledgehammer. I will happily republish letters received that are respectfully written, but many of these were not. Real estate development, particularly in Old Town, is a contentious issue, but we are here to provide information, not hunt down corrupt developers or attack the government. If you have something you’d like to share with the readers of the Tribune, by all means, send an email and space permitting, we will happily reprint, though we reserve the right to edit for length or clarity or just to ignore if they're abusive. See Cat’s column this week for her response and a selection of the letters received and some truly shocking photos. It is a shame that rules and regulations and the environment can be so blatantly ignored in the name of money. And that’s all I say about that. Have a great week! Get out and enjoy the bay. Safe travels,

and just kept humming but not dispensing the pesos. I immediately called over the Bank Manager. He worked on the machine for 30 minutes. Nada. He said the transaction had not gone through. I immediately went home, checked online and the money had been withdrawn from my Canadian Bank account. Went back to CI Banco and the manager assured me the money would be credited to my bank account within three days. Has not

happened. My Canadian Bank has started an investigation. CI Banco staff have been no help at all resolving the problem. I did not know it, but the ATM’S this bank uses have a bad reputation. I’m not optimistic about getting my money back. But I hope I can help others avoid losing their money to a CI BANCO ATM ripoff. Have a great PV day!

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

Sin popote, por favor!

Madeline

Dear Editor

would first like to say how much I enjoy visiting Puerto Vallarta. The Mexican people here are great hosts! But I must warn visitors to avoid using CI Banco ATM machines. On February 13 I attempted to withdraw 10,000 pesos ($692.78 CDN) from the CI BANCO ATM downtown in Olas Atlas. I had on a previous occasion withdrawn this sum here without a problem. On this day after concluding the transaction, the ATM went berserk

Jay Weiler

Where Is This? Sandra Cesca

rickly pear cactus pads, called Nopal, are full of taste and nutrition. After the spines are removed, steam them whole and serve with rice and chicken mole or eat cut up in a cactus salad or with scrambled eggs, soups or in a breakfast smoothie. Find this on a guided walk

around historic Vallarta with PuertoVallartaWalkingTours.com. Stroll the cobblestone streets, typical of Spanish Colonial architecture, while absorbing the sights, smells and sounds of daily life. Visit markets, historic buildings, and workshops. Get immersed in the culture while exploring areas you might not find on your own. www.puer tovallar tawalkingtours.com

Next week at the Farmers’ Market you will find great things!

Karen Mical Designs

Karen Mical Karen Mical Designs

Designs

CHILEAN ARTISAN WHOLE GRAIN BREAD

Original

Handmade Original

Wearable Handmade

Original

Art

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Love it when healthy meets delicious? Don’t miss out!

karenmicaldesigns@yahoo.com

Art

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Long time family recipe all the way from Chile to your plate. Flax, sesame, and sunflower seeds are some of the ingredients that make for this healthy, nutritious, and delicious bread. facebook.com/TheChileanBread

Cel: 322 143 3809

karenmicaldesigns@yahoo.com

FB Karen Mical Designs

Meet Chelow by Mary Stehley he first time I saw Chelow’s jewelry at the market seven years ago I thought to myself, “This girl is on to something.” At that time I didn’t know Chelow, but as I’ve gotten to know this beautiful, young Mexican woman over the past several years I understand that her vibrant personality, love of Mexico and her sense of design are all intertwined. Owner/designer Chelow began designing jewelry in 2004. Inspired by nature, the Mexican culture and most importantly, her clients, Chelow creates “fall in love with” pieces that will enhance the style and femininity of the wearer and keep you coming back for more. “One of our most-loved lines is Gypsy,” Chelow says.

T Try our more than fifty flavors in aguas frescas We cover events

mibarrarefresca@gmail.com cel. 3221274968

El Taco Ranchero Tacos, burritos, quesadillas, huaraches y sopes lamancha90@hotmail.com

“It is inspired by our time on the beahes and surfing in colorful Sayulita.” One of the most appealing aspects of Chelow’s jewelry is that each piece is easily converted into many designs, styles and sizes. “The necklaces are fully adjustable, matching the outfits my clients love to wear,” explains Chelow. “For example, one necklace can be fashioned into many styles-short, long, wrap or double wrap. It’s like you’re buying four or five looks with just one purchase.” All Chelow designs are hand crafted by Chelow and her partner, Jorge. They use natural stones—turquoise, quarts, tiger eye, coral, amethyst, aqua marine, amazonite, opal, jade, tourmaline and topaz. They also use cultivated pearls and

Swarovski crystals in combination with .925 silver, 24 kt gold plating, handmade Mexican brass, cow and kangaroo leather and suede. Chelow follows the fashion trends when coming up with new designs each season. This year she has a new line called Artisan Foundry. ”Artisan foundry is when you make a piece of jewelry around a natural stone without using machinery or technology. You use only old techniques and your hands, a torch

325 Basilio Badillo

322 222 0869 Marcelwordl1@hotmail.com

Cel. 449 198 4281

bluber1979@gmail.com

and a lot of creativity,” explains Chelow. Chelow’s new passion is dancing. Dancing inspires Chelow to experience creative feedback. Her favorite dances are tango, salsa, bachata, kizomba and zouk. “Dancing helps me find myself and to know myself more deeply. With my dance teacher and boyfriend Mauricio I have been able to discover parts of my essence, creativity and inspiration that I didn’t know before.”

NARISA’S THAI CUISINE Authentic Thai Dishes

Serving the Local Markets & Home Catering Home Delivery & Pick Up Service thaicuisinepv@gmail.com Tel: (332) 222-8331 Cell: (322) 888-9840

@libellulaphotography You can find Chelow this Saturday at the Olas Altas Farmer’s Market or visit her at her store at 156 Basilio Badillo in Old Town. She is also at the Sunday market in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle. You can contact her at 322 147 7292, on facebook (chelowvallarta), www.chelowvallarta.com or chelow84@hotmail.com. Olas Altas Farmers Market The Olas Altas Farmers Market is a North American style market that celebrates the tradition and culture of Mexico’s outdoor tianguis

markets. It focuses on nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit of Puerto Vallartans. All OAFM products are either locally grown or handmade within 75 kilometers of the city. We’re open from 9:30 to 2:00 pm every Saturday from the first Saturday in November to the last Saturday in April. We’re located in the Lazaro Cárdenas Park in Vallarta’s Emiliano Zapata neighborhood. For only 20 pesos an hour, you can park in the garage directly beneath the park.

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

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

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

Pruebe nuestra única y original paella y tortilla Española Try our unique and original paella and Spanish tortilla Tenemos servicio para eventos privados Contact us to cater your private events Tel:2254273 • Celular:3223038922 • Mail: nochipam@hotmail.com

news

Agave Shortage Raises Prices on Tequila

n the heartland of the tequila industry, in Mexico’s western state of Jalisco, a worsening shortage of agave caused by mounting demand for the liquor from New York to Tokyo has many producers worried. The price of Agave tequilana, the blue-tinged, spikey-leaved succulent used to make the alcoholic drink, has risen six-fold in the past two years, squeezing smaller distillers’ margins and leading to concerns that shortages could hit even the larger players. In front of a huge metal oven that cooks agave for tequila, one farmer near the town of Amatitan said he had been forced to use young plants to compensate for the shortage of fully grown agave, which take seven to eight years to reach maturity. He asked not to be identified because he did not want his clients to know he was using immature plants. The younger plants produce less tequila, meaning more plants have to be pulled up early from a limited supply - creating a downward spiral. “They are using four-year-old plants because there aren’t any others. I can guarantee it because I have sold them,” said Marco Polo Magdaleno, a worried grower in Guanajuato, one of the states allowed to produce tequila according to strict denomination of origin rules. More than a dozen tequila industry experts interviewed by Reuters said that the early harvesting will mean the shortage is even worse in 2018. Already, the 17.7 million blue agaves planted in 2011 in Mexico for use this year fall far short of the 42 million the industry needs to supply 140 registered companies, according to figures from the Tequila Regulatory Council (CRT) and the National Tequila Industry Chamber (CNIT). The shortages are likely to continue until 2021, as improved planting strategies take years to bear fruit, according to producers. The result is agave prices at 22 pesos ($1.18) per kilo - up from 3.85 pesos in 2016. Those higher prices mean that low-cost tequila producers, which make a cheaper, less pure drink that once dominated the market, find it harder to compete with premium players. “It doesn’t make sense for tequila to be a cheap drink

February 22 - 28, 2018 www.vallartatribune.com

Canada Wins The VI Flamingos CanAm-Mex Riviera Nayarit 2018 Cup A total of 108 players from Canada, the United States, and Mexico enjoyed a friendly competition at the Flamingos Golf Club.

C because agave requires a big investment,” said Luis Velasco, CNIT’s president. Small-scale distillers of quality tequilas are also feeling the pinch and some warn that drinkers are seeking alternative tipples. “At more than 20 pesos per kilo, it’s impossible to compete with other spirits like vodka and whisky,” said Salvador Rosales, manager of smaller producer Tequila Cascahuin, in El Arenal, a rural town in Jalisco. “If we continue like this a lot of companies will disappear,” he said. Exports to the United States of pure tequila jumped by 198 percent over the past decade, while cheaper blended tequila exports rose by just 11 percent, CNIT data shows. Over the same time, Mexican production declined 4 percent, with blended tequila leading the fall. GLOBAL DEMAND As it sheds its image as a fiery booze drunk by desperados and fratboys, while moving into the ranks of top-shelf liquors, the tequila industry has seen a flurry of deals in recent years. In January, Bacardi Ltd [BACLTD.UL] said it would buy fine tequila maker Patron Spirits International for $5.1 billion. In 2017, after years of speculation, Mexico’s Beckmann family launched an initial public offering of Jose Cuervo (CUERVO.MX), raising more than $900 million. And Britain’s Diageo Plc (DGE.L) swapped its Bushmills Irish whiskey label for full ownership of the high-end Don Julio tequila in 2014. The question posed by many distillers is how to keep pace with tequila’s success. “The growth has overtaken us. It’s a crisis of success of the industry,” said Francisco Soltero, director of strategic planning at

Patron, which buys agave under various contracts. “We thought that we were going to grow a certain amount, and we’re growing double,” he said. Large sellers such as Patron and Tequila Sauza say they have not experienced problems paying for agave, and forecast that their inventories will keep growing. “If you sell value, the costs don’t worry you,” Soltero said. Tequila Sauza, which mostly grows its own agave, does not foresee supply problems, chief executive Servando Calderon said. But some think it is simply a matter of time before the higher production costs and scarcity pressures bigger players. “We are sure this will have a strong impact on the big firms such as Cuervo or Sauza,” said Raul Garcia, President of the National Committee for Agave Production in Tequila, a group that includes most agave producers in the country. “We don’t see that the problem will be resolved soon, and that’s what worries us.” Demand is also being driven by other, fashionable agave-derived products, including agave syrup and health supplement inulin, which use the equivalent of 20 percent of the plants needed in 2018, the CRT said. And rising prices are leading to growing theft, driving out smaller producers, said Jose de Jesus, a producer of blue agave in Tepatitlan. Criminals come to the area with large trucks in the middle of the night to steal agave, he said. According to the CRT last year 15,000 plants were reported stolen, more than triple the number in 2016. ($1 = 18.7096 Mexican pesos) Writing by Christine Murray; Editing by Frank Jack Daniel, Daniel Flynn and Rosalba O’Brien

www.reuters.com

anada was crowned champion at the VI International Flamingos Can-Am-Mex Riviera Nayarit 2018 Cup, which took place last February 17 at the Flamingos Golf Club.    For the sixth consecutive year, teams from Canada, the United States, and Mexico came together for this sports competition with a total of 108 participants, 36 per team in men’s and women’s categories, all amateur.   This is the fourth time the Canadian team takes home the Flamingos Cup, as they had already won in 2013, 2014, and 2016. Mexico won the cup in 2015 and 2017, with the United States being the only team that has not secured a win. Because it’s a strictly amateur competition, the main purpose is for the players to enjoy their time together and generate an enriching intercultural exchange, according to Enrique Gómez Javaloyes, Operations Director for the Flamingos Golf Club.  “What we want is for players from all three nationalities to spend time together on the golf course; the essence of this is not so much the competition as it is the camaraderie.”

The game and the results The game took place during an 18-hole round, divided in two nines. The first nine holes were played in the Scramble format and the rest on Best Score. They competed by in couples amongst themselves, one couple per team.   At the end of the tournament, the golfers enjoyed a friendly dinner, followed by the awards ceremony, where there was also a raffle of over 100 prizes and gifts on behalf of the sponsors.  Included among the sponsors are the Riviera Nayarit, Vector, Honda, Tequila Herradura, Grupo Modelo, Pueblo Náutico Boutique Marina, Taylor Made, Alesso, Club Car, Sabal Playa, Careaga Asociados, Jacobsen, After Golf & Sports, Los Muertos, Crismar, Distribuidora Montero, and Rain Bird, plus restaurants Mark’s in Bucerías, Rincón de Buenos Aires and Osos.   The winner of the first format was Mexico with 22 points, although after the Best Score final results were tallied it was Canada that came out ahead in first place with 41.5 points; Mexico in second place with 34 points; and the United States in third place with 33.5 points.

Dead last finish for cross-country skier

Mexican Olympian crossed finish line 26 minutes after the winner but was all smiles

ne of the four members of Mexico’s Winter Olympics team had never skied until last year and yesterday it showed, but so did Olympic spirit. German Madrazo finished dead last in the men’s 15-kilometer cross-country race at the PyeongChang winter games in South Korea — but he arrived at the finish line all smiles. And despite his poor showing — he came in 26 minutes after gold-medal winner Dario Cologna of Switzerland — he was given a hero’s welcome. Cologna was among those who showed their Olympic spirit by

greeting Madrazo at the finish line and lifting him into the air. The 43-year-old proudly carried a Mexican flag in the final stretch of the race. Fellow team member Sarah Schleper was eliminated Thursday after a fall in the women’s giant slalom. Original: Mexico News Daily

news

Film triggers boom for Michoacán guitars

February 22 - 28, 2018 www.vallartatribune.com

Six appear to be in running for president López Obrador, Anaya, Meade officially declared presidential candidates

Designer of the instrument used in Coco hails from Paracho, famous for its guitar makers

popular animated film whose concept is based on the Day of the Dead has been good for a small Michoacán town dedicated to making guitars and other stringed instruments. A now iconic guitar appears in the Disney-Pixar film Coco and has created renewed interest in Paracho de Verduzco, long renowned for a guitar-making tradition that dates back to the 18th century. The interest has been sparked by the fact that an artisan who trained there designed the white Coco guitar. Germán Vázquez, 65, left for the United States in the 1970s, but took with him his knowledge of and love for the craft. Today, the film’s popularity in Mexico and around the world has put Paracho in the center of a guitar-buying frenzy. “It’s impressive, everyone’s gone loco for Coco,” shopkeeper Claudia Rodríguez de Velásquez told National Public Radio. “We have a long list of back orders,” she added, explaining that ever since Coco debuted late last year she can’t keep the famous white guitars on her shelves. The family’s factory is working round the clock, churning out 1,500 guitars a week, she said. Before Coco, she explained, 90% of their guitars were the usual tan colors, but now white instruments dominate the orders. All sorts of stringed instruments are manufactured in the Paracho, and their makers are also receiving renewed attention.

César Iván Lemus is a third-generation artisan who specializes in manufacturing guitarrones, a very large, deep-bodied six-string acoustic bass favored by mariachi bands. He said he’s filling orders as fast as he can, selling mainly to mariachi schools and stores in Texas and California. “We are so proud that Pixar turned to a Mexican artisan to design Coco‘s guitar,” he said. “And not just any Mexican, but a former Paracho resident,” he added beaming. The town is gearing up to celebrate Germán Vázquez, one of its most prominent guitar makers in recent times, this weekend. In preparation, residents decorated several streets to look like Santa Cecilia, the fictional village in the film, and covered a large bronze guitar statue at the town’s entrance in white. Coco was a box office hit around the world, raking in more than US $700 million. The film got an early release in Mexico, coinciding with Day of the Dead festivities, and became the highest-grossing movie of all time here. At the 75th Golden Globe Awards, Coco won Best Animated Feature Film and was nominated for Best Original Song. The film was nominated in both categories by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences for its upcoming Academy Awards ceremony, which will take place on March 4.

Original: Mexico News Daily

he three leading presidential hopefuls formally accepted their parties’ nominations yesterday, while three independent candidates are poised to join them on the ballot for the July 1 election. Andrés Manuel López Obrador, Ricardo Anaya and José Antonio Meade held competing rallies in Mexico City at which they articulated their campaign platforms in their official acceptance speeches. López Obrador, the candidate for the National Regeneration Movement, or Morena party, promised that if he succeeds in winning the election he would fulfill all of his campaign promises. “There will be no disappointment,” declared the 64-year-old veteran of Mexican politics. Widely known as AMLO, the candidate also said that he will act “with stubbornness . . . and perseverance verging on madness” to put an end to corruption. Among the 56 commitments outlined by the current front-runner in the polls were to stamp out nepotism in the government, reduce the salaries of high-ranking officials, disband the intelligence agency CISEN, rigorously punish human rights violations and not raise taxes. The third-time candidate also addressed United States President Donald Trump’s border wall proposal. “If he insists on building the wall, we’re going to turn to the United Nations to defend the rights of Mexicans,” López Obrador said. “I’m conscious of my historic responsibility,” he added. Also supporting López Obrador’s candidacy are the Labor Party (PT) and the Social Encounter Party (PES), forming a coalition called Together We’ll Make History. At the National Auditorium, Ricardo Anaya officially became the candidate for the right-left coalition known as For Mexico in Front. The three-way alliance is made up of the conservative National Action Party (PAN), the leftist Democratic Revolutionary Party (PRD) and the smaller Citizens’

Movement Party (MC). Anaya, 38, is the youngest of the candidates but in his acceptance speech he declared that he was well and truly prepared to take on the top job. “I’m ready so that together we achieve the change that Mexico needs today,” he said. He too pledged to put an end to corruption as well as spiraling levels of violence and inequality. In a thinly veiled attack on López Obrador, Anya said “what Mexico needs is not a messiah . . . what Mexico needs is the unequivocal enforcement of the law.” He also said that he would increase the minimum wage and improve education to support an economy that is based on “knowledge” rather than “manufacturing.” Anaya also took a swipe at the current administration, charging that it had allowed the United States to walk all over Mexico. “Mexico will never again be treated like a doormat for the United States, as it has been in this government,” he declared. The third major party candidate, José Antonio Meade, will represent an alliance led by the ruling Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) but also including the Ecologist Green Party of Mexico (PVEM) and the New Alliance Party (PANAL). In his speech, the former finance secretary said that if he wins the election, Mexicans will receive personal support from the government he leads. “Needs are always personal; the support of the government will be as well . . .” he said, adding that the support would include things such as scholarships, medicine and backing for small businesses. Meade’s candidacy represents the first time ever that the PRI has chosen a candidate from outside its own ranks. However, he is lagging a distant third in the polls and faces an uphill battle to prove that he represents change despite representing a party that has been plagued by

corruption scandals. Meade, 48, vowed to crack down on crime and impunity and recognized that many Mexicans are angry about the current state of the country and its political affairs. For the first time ever, three independent candidates are also almost certain to appear on the ballot in what will be a crowded six-person race. Margarita Zavala, Jaime Rodríguez and Armando Ríos Piter have all collected the required number of signatures to qualify to appear on the ballot and are now awaiting verification and ratification of their candidacies from the National Electoral Institute (INE). Zavala, a former first lady, quit the PAN last year after it became clear that she would not become its candidate, and instead chose to pursue an independent path to the presidency. Rodríguez, widely known as El Bronco, was the first independent governor of a Mexican state but left his position at the helm of the Nuevo León government at the end of last year to focus on his run at the presidency. Ríos Piter is a federal senator representing the state of Guerrero. All three only have single-digit support in polls and analysts doubt that any has a chance of winning but they represent alternatives for voters who are dissatisfied with the government and other major parties. The indigenous candidate known as Marichuy fell well short of the 866,000 signatures required to appear on the ballot as did another independent aspirant, Pedro Ferriz. The official campaign period starts at the end of next month. Political risk analysts at Eurasia Group said Friday that if current polling trends continue “the race will become more competitive between the two front runners,” but added “voter intentions have historically shifted throughout the campaign season, so much could change.” Original: Mexico News Daily

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February 22 - 28, 2018 www.vallartatribune.com

Medical Matters Pam Thompson

pamela@healthcareresourcespv.com

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

Heart Stuff

ebruary is our Heart Health Month and the response to our speakers programs has been overwhelming. I am continually reminded of how proud I am as to how very lucky we are to have such extraordinary physicians here in the area, of all specialties of course and this month, specifically focusing on our cardiologists. They are bi-lingual. They are compassionate. They are well-educated. They are patient and they are kind. In the US/Canada when a person needs to have an echocardiogram, a treadmill or a Holter monitor, it is a technician (and a highly qualified one of course!) that does the study but here, the cardiologist does the actual study. A number of years ago, I asked Dr. Adolfo Curiel some questions about treadmill stress tests.

What exactly is a treadmill stress test? Dr. Curiel: Exercise is a common physiological stress used to elicit cardiovascular abnormalities not present at rest and as well, to determine adequacy of cardiac function. Exercise electrocardiography (stress test) is one of the most frequently used, non-invasive modes used to assess patients with suspected or proven cardiovascular disease. The test is mainly used to estimate prognosis and to determine functional capacity, the likelihood and extent of coronary artery disease and the effects of therapy. Why would a person need a treadmill stress test? Dr. Curiel: The most frequent indications for exercise testing are to aid in establishing the diagnosis of CAD (Coronary Artery Disease), to determine the functional capa-

city and prognosis. Exercise testing is considered appropriate for the purpose of diagnosis in most adults with an intermediate probability of CAD. Also, in patients undergoing initial evaluation with suspected or known CAD. Other indications would be post-myocardial infarction (before, early and late afterwards for prognostic assessment and prescription activity) and in patients after re-vascularization (after angioplasty, after stent placement or after coronary artery bypass graft surgery). How is the test performed? Dr. Curiel: Patient is instructed to not eat, drink caffeinated beverages or smoke for three hours before the test. Wear comfortable clothing, shoes. Unusual physical

exertion should be avoided pre-testing. Brief history and physical exam is performed and patients should be advised of risks and benefits of the procedure. After the cables are connected to the treadmill, walking is demonstrated to the patient. The heart rate, blood pressure and EKG are recorded at the end of each stage of exercise and after stopping exercise. How is the test interpreted?

What is looked for? Dr. Curiel: There are several EKG measurements that are assessed. The most important is the measurement of the ST segment displacement in the T-wave. Using these measurements, the test is determined to be positive or negative. There are also some non-EKG observations such as blood pressure, heart rate response, maximal work capacity that are measured. It is important to note that the characterization of chest discomfort can be a useful diagnostic tool, particularly when the symptom complex is compatible with typical angina. In other words, we can say that the test is positive because of the symptoms even if we do not have EKG changes. Is it a reliable test? Dr. Curiel: The sensitivity of the exercise EKG in patients with Coronary Artery Disease is approximately 75%, specificity is 80% All of our cardiologists perform treadmill stress tests in their offices. If you would like to schedule, please email me and we can get you set up! Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s to a peachy week!

Venecia 290 Col. DĂaz Ordaz Fluent English Spoken Porcelain veneers, crowns and bridges. Dental implants, Dentures Go to www.pvsmile.com.mx for address and directions

Welcome Home

Sheryl Novak

sa.novak@solutionsmexico.com

Sheryl Novak is an expat Canadian who has owned a home in Mexico for over ten years. She is the owner of SOLutions Mexico and The Furniture Store by SOLutions Mexico. She is an expert on sourcing all styles of furniture for all sizes of budgets, in Mexico.

Buyer Beware â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Return Policies and Warranties in Mexico

eturn policies and warranties are not necessarily the same in Mexico as they are in Canada and US. When purchasing

furniture or any large item, always ask to see both policies. Reputable retailers have no problem providing this information. In Mexico, legally binding agreements are those in writing and Spanish. English is only for courtesy. Upon delivery, always unwrap and carefully inspect the item before you sign shipping receipts. Do not let delivery people pressure you to

sign quickly. Once you have signed, it means you accept the article as is. If there is damage or it is incorrect, contact the retailer immediately. If you cannot reach them, tell the shipper to take it back. Once you sign for the article, you will have little if any recourse. After you have signed for the item, any problems that arise are considered warranty issues. Most warranties cover defaults in materials and manufacturing for a limited period. Warranties are the responsibility of the manufacturer, not the retailer. If the retailer assists, it is a courtesy, not an obligation. Manufacturers prefer to repair rather than replace items and use third-party companies to handle warranty repairs. There is no legal obligation for the manufacturer to rectify the issue promptly during the warranty period. The promptness and ability of their third-party repair company to fix the problem vary depending on the quality of their employees. Some manufacturers conduct regular training and testing. Most do not which means the service is often lacking in promptness and ability to diagnose and fix the issue. In Mexico, should you have an issue with your dishwasher or washing machine for example, and you have a renter coming in two days, be prepared with a backup plan. As with most warranty work, it can take weeks or months to resolve. A call to the retailer most often results in them telling you to contact the manufacturer. Calling the retailer or manufacturer repeatedly and in anger can make the issue worse. There is an unwritten code that complainers should wait even longer as a life lesson. Threatening to make a call to PROFECA (ProcuradurĂa Federal del Consumidor) will not get you much further. PROFECA is a conciliation based service. Their focus is to get the two parties together to work out an amicable solution. It is not a legal body, so there are no penalties should talks break down. The time frame to work an issue through PROFECA will often take longer than waiting for the third party repair company. Should you decide to pursue a legal route, be prepared for a long wait and legal costs often more than what it cost to purchase. My advice? Always inspect your purchases before signing the shipping receipt. For the issues that arise, resolve them with friendliness and be prepared with a lot of patience and a backup plan. Buying a condo? Email furniture@solutionsmexico.com for a complimentary furniture checklist from the Vallarta Tribune.

local Que Paso The (Foreign) at UDG CUC Gift that Keeps on Giving

February 22 - 28, 2018 www.vallartatribune.com

Michael Nolan

Orlando Gotay, Tax Attorney

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

Orlando Gotay is a California licensed tax attorney (with a Master of Laws in Taxation) admitted to practice before the IRS, the U.S. Tax Court and other taxing agencies. His love of things Mexican has led him to devote part of his practice to the federal and state tax matters of U.S. expats in Mexico. He can be reached at tax@orlandogotay.com or Facebook: GotayTaxLawyer. This is just a most general outline, and is of course, informational only and not meant as legal advice.

FREE MOVIES Every Wednesday and Friday at 1 pm in the main auditorium we show full-length films – free and open to the general public. Friday February 23 we will be showing, “CRONOS”, a 1993 movie directed by Guillermo del Toro. Staring Frderico Luppi and Ron Perlman. There will be another UDG Social Service Brigade this Saturday February 24 at the main plaza in the Buenos Aires neighborhood from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm The Brigade is a university program that is held once a month in a different community in the Puerto Vallarta area. The University will offer health care, legal advice, self-construction of public housing, psychological health, nutritional, financial accounting services, and physical fitness. The Brigades helps disadvantaged communities in the region; University teachers, social service providers and students of UdG Central University Costa will be there to help. The program’s goal is a commitment to social equity and improving the living conditions of the socially disadvantaged, by offering basic services to those in need. The program seeks to create a greater social awareness among students of the University Center of the Coast of the University of Guadalajara. For more information, please contact Mtra.Guadalupe María Gómez Basulto - lupita.

Marcia Blondin

tax@orlandogotay.com

104.3wakeupshow@gmail.com

basulto@cuc.udg.mx or Mtra. Paola Cortés Almanzar paola.cortes@ cuc.udg.mx On Tuesday February 27 at 11 am in the main auditorium we will have a live music concert with ANTIGONE RISING from New York City. This band has toured with Joan Jett, Sheryl Crow, Aerosmith and The Rolling Stones. This will be a standing room only event so please get there early. It is FREE and open to the public. The international film festival will begin on March 12. More information to come in the following weeks! We encourage you to look at the UDG CUC web site each week to get the latest news about all the events taking place. www.cuc.udg.mx And be sure to tune in to The Good Morning Wake Up Show every Saturday morning at 9 am. 104.3 FM or on the web at h tt p : / / u d g t v. c o m / radio-puerto-vallarta/en-vivo And please remember: “If you see someone without a smile give them yours.”

he IRS gets very antsy when it comes to things foreign. I am going to hereby coin “Orlando’s General Rule of Sospechosidad” (that last word is made up, it’s meant to be “suspiciousness”): If it’s foreign, there’s likely a special IRS rule nearby. And what would you know, today’s topic, foreign gifts, does indeed have one. That leads to my Second General Rule: Where there’s a rule, there’s the trap for the unwary! We all like gifts. But there is something special about gifts (and bequests) that come from foreign persons. Did you know, a bequest is a gift that comes from the afterlife! (Actually, from the estate of the dearly departed). If you receive a gift from a foreign person and it is over a certain amount, you have to report it to the IRS. As with some of these things, reporting does not mean you necessarily pay tax on it, it’s just a report that the gift took place. The IRS is especially interested in knowing about foreign gifts (or bequests) of $100,000 or more during the year. They are wise to splitting gifts to “limbo” one’s way around the rule, so related people’s gifts are all added up. If foreign spouse A and B give you sepa-

marciavallarta@gmail.com

rate gifts of $50,000 and $60,000 it meets the test. Over $100,000 in gift from related persons, report you must! Note: I can think of a US person dying having a foreign estate, which means that any bequest from such estate is foreign. It’s reportable if over the amount. Gifts from foreign corporations and trusts are reportable at much lower thresholds, $15,797. If a real person is related to the corporation (for example, by ownership) any gifts from them count toward the corporation thresholds. Generally speaking, “gifts” from foreign corporations and trusts are a bad idea. Lastly, you can have a “gift” even if it did not come wrapped with a bow. If the corporation allowed you to use property it owns, without paying, guess what—that is a gift, to the extent of the fair market value of that use. Worse, some of those corporate gifts may also be taxable to you as regular income…what a gift that is. Told you there are traps. These gifts and bequests are reported on Form 3520, Annual Return to Report Transactions with Foreign Trusts and Receipt of Certain Foreign Gifts. Gift away! ¡Gracias!

ello Karaoke”, Donald Moline’s cheeky yet loving words just before he presented the World Premiere of “Canciones de Vallarta” at Incanto. Donald, a Grammy award-winning cellist with over sixty years of playing with the some of the finest orchestra’s in the world, premiered John Henry Kreitler’s “Songs of Vallarta” playing to a track. Donald told me over coffee last week that his score for the three songs was covered with instructions on what the orchestra was doing while he played his solo cello onstage. The virtual orchestra was created by composer John Henry who was sitting with his wife Patsy, their daughter and her friend, right behind me in the sold-out theatre. The first half of the concert had Jean-Guy Comeau on piano accompanying Donald on cello. I think Jean-Guy is the most sensitive pianist I have ever heard; he can make a piano whisper. Watching him play with such grace the notes are almost unnecessary. What I love about the performing arts in Vallarta is the ability to approach musicians and composers after a concert and talk about it. And, I hope they enjoy the immediate feedback as much as the audience humbly requests an autograph, photographs or hugs from me. (I have a great job.) There are still a few tickets left for the Saturday, February 24th performance. Go and be immersed in whale song and true joyousness. On the afternoon of the 24th at 4 pm, the Vallarta Vocalista Ensemble takes the stage at Incanto for their second concert this season. Opening night for them is the 22nd and I can’t go because I am in my boutique at Venustiano Carranza 466 for “A Courtyard Evening of Local Color” from 5 to 8 pm. You, my readers, can attend both! I will have a full report on both events next week. The Vallarta Garden Club took in $600,000 pesos at their Fiesta Azul fundraiser last month. To celebrate, a group of VGC members are going to the Palm Cabaret Wednesday, the 28th of February,

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From Here

February 22 - 28, 2018 www.vallartatribune.com

Byron Ayanoglu

byron.ayanoglu@gmail.com

Byron is a memoirist, travel columnist, cookbook author, restaurant reviewer and novelist. He is currently working on his sixth novel which is tellingly entitled Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

E to see Brendan and James who performed so beautifully during the event. I hope we will see and hear Miss Amy Armstrong who was MC at the Fiesta Azul. The last meeting of the VGC featured David Tarrant from San Miguel de Allende who talked about many of the gardens in that city I have yet to see. My favorite part of the slideshow was seeing the late, great Canadian figure skater Toller Cranston’s exuberant (what else could it be?) fern gardens. Speaking of San Miguel Allende, my friend Christina Ruckel, invited me to her spectacular new penthouse for her very first cocktail party last week. Christina and Gary Cook own the remarkable bed and breakfast, Casa de los Chiqueados in San Miguel. When I met Christina and Gary a year ago, she invited me to stay with them and started sending me her newsletters every few months. I STILL haven’t made it to SMA and so many of my friends and colleagues spend summers there. One day... The cocktail party was thrown in honor of Gary’s cousin Sherry and her husband Ed. Lots of people enjoyed catered “snacks” by the Gringo Gourmet starring Scotty McIntire himself, who introduced me to Christina in 2017, and some of her most interesting friends, like Connie the beautiful publisher from Iowa. The surroundings, the sumptuous food, the lovely people and great conversations left me smiling for the balance of the week, From Here!

agle-size hawks circle the baby-blue, skimming the highest peaks of the tropical trees. The verdant mountain-side sweeps down meaningfully to the coast and its majestic bay. To the north, it beckons to a Promised Land that towers in the most-distant mists of this stately ocean’s shores. To the south, an embroidered sequence of angelic coves lead to the infinity of Latin America’s coastline. Directly below, nestles metropolitan Vallarta, whose historic centre now extends in all directions to occupy land reclaimed from the jungle and made accessible to the burgeoning population of locals and to world-class resort-installations, tall hotels, marinas, airports, that rival the best anywhere. Straight ahead is the endless Pacific with its siren’s song of adventure and treasure that await its explorers. I watch as the fog rolls into the middle of the bay, tinting it metallic grey, with wings of dazzling sunshine on either side. And just in time for the main event, the fog melts into a sunset that paints this universe-of-pleasure with an astonishing range of reds and oranges, a splendiferous herald of the velvet night ahead, with its own array of unalloyed delights. This is my view as I dine at Las Carmelitas, the well- appointed restaurant fancifully installed on the highest landing of the mountain that rises behind the city. Any higher than this and one would be in an airplane. Or, in San Sebastian. The restaurant, which is invisible to the naked eye in the daytime, can be spotted glimmering way above Vallarta at night, like some kind of unattainable Nirvana. It can actually be attained, but with a degree or two of challenge. Getting to your table up there takes about half an hour in a private car or taxi, after which there is a ten-minute uphill climb on a steep ramp to

reach the dining room. If at all mobile enough to attempt it you’ll be well rewarded. The internationally minded menu offers all our favorites, among which I much enjoyed lively, crisply-fried calamari and butter-soft tuna sashimi. And that view, my goodness; what a spectacle! LAS CARMELITAS Straight up the mountain behind downtown Puerto Vallarta Res.: 322-293-3112

photo by Algis Kemezys

The View at Las Carmelitas

The view

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February 22 - 28, 2018 www.vallartatribune.com

La Cocina

Change for Good By Gaby García

s change difficult at the Library? The library is a venerable institution by Puerto Vallarta standards. In our town, restaurants open and close in one or two seasons, hotels change name, expand, close and change to something else in four or five years, real estate offices expand and shrink according to the market and people come and go as birds in the sky. Anything that is there for more than ten years begins to be a part of our culture and the Library Los Mangos with twenty-one years is here to stay. Our annual auction is eighteen years old and it was ready for some changes. This year we decided to see if making our biggest annual fundraiser event a little more formal would make it more successful. We did not make the selection for the Live Auction, but rather we asked Gary Thompson of Galeria Pacifico and John Strawn of The Loft Gallery to do that. We limited the size of the works, as we could either get very small pieces that tended to get lost amongst the bigger ones, or we would get huge works that could not be handled with care or that were difficult to place. This time the size was limited to pieces that you can fit in a car, or hang in a wall more easily. We also decided to limit the number of free pieces, as we wanted to increase the quality of

James Nash

Twitter @JamesNashPV

A believer that a simple, flavourful meal shared with friends is one of our life’s true joys, a local resident of Vallarta, James (aka Jimmy) shares his knowledge and passion for the culinary arts, local architecture and real estate.

Your life, your lifestyle! the gifts. We also posted all works on our website and produced a catalog. How difficult was it? It was very difficult. But the most difficult part of it all was having a second auction 15 days after the main one. We wanted to test having a private auction, in a private setting, with a selected number of sculptures and paintings and a selected audience that paid 1,000 pesos to attend. Again Gary and John helped us with the curating and Robert Buckheimer and Federico Leon de la Vega donated their time to help us auction the works of art. Did we make mistakes? Surely! We sold a piece in pesos when it should had been sold in dollars! We hurt the feelings of a

couple of artists, we shone the lights in our auctioneers’ eyes too much and we overworked our staff! So, yes, change is hard at the library, as it is anywhere else. With this experience, I can tell you that next year’s auction is already taking shape and it will be a three-day event for the whole of Puerto Vallarta’s community; a private auction on the first night, a popular auction, art and design expo on the second night and an open full day with an art and music fair on the last day. This will re-shape the idea of our auction and hopefully modify it to last another eighteen years. Since I am helping the library only to pass it on in better condition to the next generation of volunteers, art and education lovers, literacy believers and donors, I hope they agree that my actions have protected and fortified this most Vallartense institution. For more details about the outcome of our two Art Sale and Auction events, visit: www.bibliotecalosmangos.org

any people spend a fair bit of their first years here in Vallarta hanging by the beaches and living the good life. Food and drinks often flow fairly freely during these days, and the simple pleasure of being in the sunshine with friends is a welcome relief for many. After all, you bought your home or condominium in many cases to be able to enjoy a place where we have over 300 days a year of sunshine and some fantastic

restaurants and bars. My first few years here I met many people via local meet up groups, many who were on local chat boards where you could ask all the questions you could think of as you navigate your way thru a new culture and a new language. For many people, these groups offer a connection to a city and most likely a new social circle. I did also learn that in many cases it is best to keep these questions to everyday things, like where to buy good produce or find those evasive items you miss from back home. Fortunately, I also met a group of

¡ I´m FRIDA, I'm FREE ! MONOLOGUE -MAPPING

Feb 24 20:00 hrs TERCERA LLAMADA PV Gonzalez Gallo 103 (FRENTE A MACROPLAZA ) ENGLISH SUBTITLES

322-115-1995

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February 22 - 28, 2018 www.vallartatribune.com

Paradise and Parenting Leza Warkentin

mommyinmexico.wordpress.com

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

Room for Us All

Y people who through their journey to live in our beautiful bay area, they had connected with the many local communities and individuals who are in need. One of the challenges living in a world where your language skills are still developing is finding a way to volunteer in a meaningful way to help make your new home a bit better place for those who are struggling in life. When you come to a location for a few weeks a year, it is often all about recharging the batteries, but even for those who spend a few months each year enjoying all that Vallarta has to offer often sees them spending a few hours or a day each week helping to others. It may be that lunch program run at a local church, or perhaps volunteering at one of several local orphanages. Running weekly home tours to raise money for much needed medical procedures, or helping to offer free spay and neuter clinics to reduce the number of stray animals. I could easily fill a page with the number of individuals and organizations at work in the bay area, and

those would be even before I got into the ones run by local organizations like the Lions Club or Rotary. Now don’t get me wrong, many people participate even while sitting on the beach by donating the funds to help keep all these organizations going. Funding for most programs here is grassroots and in my experience has some of the lowest overhead costs possible. In many cases, the volunteers fund everything, so it is 100% donations in, 100% donations out. The reasons people often come to Vallarta are pretty simple, great food, great beaches, and affordable or luxury vacations are available with almost guaranteed sunshine. The reason that people come back year after year and many times look to own a home here is they find that a true sense of community is strong in our Banderas Bay region. Join us and live your life in a place filled with gratitude and love, where you can be on the beach one day and helping a child have a better quality of life the next one! What better lifestyle could there be?

ou often hear about problems that girls experience in their peer groups and friendships in the pre-teen and teen years. It’s a phenomenon that inspired the movie “Mean Girls”. We tend to accept it as a normal part of childhood. But I don’t think we should. Girls AND boys look for ways to belong, especially in the pre-teen and teen years. They are developing an identity apart from their parents, and they are searching for a family outside of their immediate one where they feel accepted for who they are – their tribe, as I like to call it. When they lose their place in their tribe, it can be devastating; like being kicked out of a family, like losing a piece of themselves. My daughter recently went through something like this. She has a group of friends online because they live far from each other and they communicate through a web messaging site. She owns an Ipod Touch and uses the site when she has WiFi. She and one of the other girls had had a disagreement recently, and the other girl had begun to ask their friends to block my daughter. Some

of they did, and it was very painful for her to watch them drop away, one by one. She came to me in tears and we talked it all through. It was one of those moments as a mother where my inner Mama Bear began to lumber up on her haunches and growl softly, attempting to stifle the Reasoning and Teaching portions of my brain. I listened to her (muting the growling just a moment), and then I waited a minute to respond. I measured my words, because what I WANTED to say wasn’t helpful, and it was struggling against the restraints of my prefrontal cortex. Instead I asked her what she said that might have contributed to the other child’s anger. I asked if there was any responsibility she might need to take for that. Then, I asked her what we could do (I said “we” so she understood that she wasn’t alone and that I wasn’t going anywhere). We devised a plan of apologizing for the part she may have played in the misunderstanding, telling the friends she wished them well, and then letting go. We talked about the value of friendship, but that hanging on to hear constantly hurtful things

wasn’t the right thing to do for her OR for the other girl if there was going to be anything to learn from this. And then we talked about the friends she had who lifted her up, and helped her be a better person, and who wanted good things for her (there were several). With good friends, we can achieve so much. And we want to achieve. We don’t want to curl up in the mire of hurt feelings and gossip. We want to stand up, climb higher, and make our dreams come true. That same week my daughter’s class put on a wax museum where they had to depict characters from the American and Mexican revolution. My daughter took on the role of Juana Belem Gutierrez de Mendoza on the Mexican Revolution day. She had to research her character and then write a speech that would inform the visitors to the wax museum who she was. What I learned from my daughter was that Juana was a revolutionary, a feminist, a poet and a journalist in the early 1900’s. She didn’t have time to worry about hurt feelings or what people may have thought of her. I am pretty sure she heard people call her names that would have caused her pain. She even spent time in prison for her activism. But she stood up and fought for the rights of all human beings in her country, and didn’t stop no matter what it cost. We don’t have to accept that gossip and social exclusion is a natural part of childhood. We can show them that we are on this planet to do so much more, that our relationships and our actions can mean so much more. We can show them what strong women can do. And we can help them rise to a level where there’s room for us all.

real estate

February 22 - 28, 2018 www.vallartatribune.com

Real Estate on the Bay

Cat Morgan www.rivieranayaritfun.com Cat@RivieraNayaritFun.com Cat Morgan is owner of RivieraNayaritFun.com and also NewEnergyConsciousness.com If you have any questions, comments or Riviera Nayarit news please contact her at Cat@CatMorgan.me In regards to my previous article, I have received letters (some respectful and others quite rude) on 105 Sail View’s construction and the issues that have been created with this project, such as the walking path that connected both sides of Old Town, no pedestrian path to the highway and pier, as well as removing a natural flyway for flocks of birds coming down from mountains or the sea, and problems for the residents and owners of Loma del Mar located directly next door to 105 Sail View. Construction has created an extremely small space in-between the buildings and many units have lost their view and sunlight. I am not an insensitive person, and I am truly sorry for this experience of course. Obviously, when constructing buildings, there is going to be trucks, noise and a lot of dust involved. There is no way to get around those issues until the completion of the project. I am sending the letters received to the one owner that I met in person to potentially discover more information on their intentions and will keep everyone apprised of his response. I would also like our readers to understand that I am not an “investigative reporter” for the Vallarta Tribune. My last article was simply depicting my experience of the evening and thoughts of the new architecture. My article topics will vary; however, most of the forthcoming articles will be more of a Q&A in regards to perspectives of everyone; including builders, architects, the Nationals that live here, expats and snowbirds, shop owners and the folks that work in the real estate industry, as well as vacationers for their opinions. There will be positive and negative responses to my questions, as everyone chooses their own perspectives. Puerto Vallarta proper and downtown is no longer the ‘small town’ it once was and is expanding into a city as the expat community and vacation investment properties expand into the area. These new condos are all in presale and are

not having any problems selling out. Without this high demand, the new structures would not be going up. We will all be discovering what is going to be done for the infrastructure to support the new projects, as one can only assume the city officials are contemplating how to address this issue. Although with all of this new construction going on, I feel downtown retains many gifts offering the Mexico charm we love, terrific restaurants, shops, shows and entertainment along with hiking areas and beautiful beaches. Thank you for reading and I am certainly hoping that next week’s article will bring more delight to our readers! If you would like to write please email me at Cat@CatMorgan.me Create a good week! Thank you. Photos courtesy of Caroline Berry, Resident of Loma Del Mar Condominiums Dear Cat, Congratulations on having a new real estate column in the Vallarta Tribune. You mention that you will be interviewing a variety of people involved, including the public, about new developments. You might want to check in with the neighbors of these new developments, as well as community organizations, especially in the Old Town / Romantic Zone so heavily impacted by the large mega-projects going up. I understand this is an upbeat market for real estate developers, but I’d encourage you to include some reflections on the impact all this heavy, large-scale construction has on the ecological environment, sense of neighborhood, and the infrastructure of the city. Perhaps you are unaware of the particular history of the 105 Sail View project you profiled in your first column (Feb 15-21 issue). This narrow strip of greenway was a walking path that connected two sides of Old Town and provided a direct pedestrian path to both the highway and the pier. In recent years it had been lovingly landscaped by the talented gardener at

before Loma del Mar Condominiums and others. It was used by countless local workers to get to work every day, as well as many tourists and local residents. Utilities also had lines running underground. The city sold off the greenway to developers without public notice or any hearings, even though it appeared on city maps as a pedestrian street. Efforts to review what should be openly public deeds for the land were stymied. As for the construction project itself, aside from eliminating the greenway completely and dwarfing the established existing condominium developments all around it, it has blocked countless lovely mountain views and cool mountain airflow for neighbors and removed a natural gateway for flocks of birds coming down from the mountains or up from the sea.

before

after The developers regularly use public streets and condominium entryways for their heavy construction equipment, sometimes running concrete trucks and other heavy equipment late into the night, and the pier side of the building is lit up all night bathing nearby residences with nighttime light. The developers say they treat their employees well, as they should. Being considerate of one’s neighbors would also be a nice “development”. Sincerely Dan Grippo Resident, Loma del Mar Condomiums I just read the rhapsodic report written in the Real Estate on the Bay column of the construction project “105 Sail View” (or, as those of us who have endured the piercing noises and filth of this construction for 2 years and 4 months

from 0800 to dark at least 6 and sometimes 7 days a week, call it - the Project from Hell). The new publicity foto still doesn’t show how this totally inconsiderate building is situated only 2 meters from long existing condos. What view and light and air that some existing 13 condos here in Loma del Mar had, has been replaced by a concrete wall 5 feet away. All of our windows to the east have been grossly splattered with concrete for over a year. Last summer we were engulfed with mosquitos, while a pond of stagnant water persisted just off my balcony that overlooks the patio of my downstairs neighbor that fell into the excavation over a year ago and has yet to be replaced. Oft times when people ask me how the project is going they also ask, “Have the people affected been offered any compensation?” That always brings a laugh. T. Favello

after

local

February 22 - 28, 2018 www.vallartatribune.com

ADORABLE DOG IN THE Review: Duende Presents an Unforgettable Musical Experience SPOTLIGHT...PERLA By Debbie White

by Janice Gonzalez erla would make a great family dog! She is very sweet and just loves her people. She is between 5-6 years of age, a Terrier mix weighing a bit less than 29 pounds. Perla is missing a paw on one of her back legs and we think she may have been born that way. She is in no way hampered

and loves to run and play with all the other dogs she meets. She is even good with the felines. Perla has been spayed, dewormed and vaccinated. She is now ready for a loving family to call her own, so if you have been searching for the perfect family dog contact us at spcapv@gmail.com for an application to adopt Perla.

he goal of the musical trio, Duende is to give the audience new ways to think about the music that we all love. To imagine, create, arrange and share it with all people who love music! The spirit of Duende is born of struggle and suffering. True creativity has this spirit flowing through its music, art and words. Duende is infused with extraordinary musical talent, creativity, art, dance and hybrid instruments which leads to an unique, exciting and captivating musical experience. The music is eclectic and covers both classical and popular. The extraordinary blending of the fivestring cello (with a range from cello to bass), the five-string violin (covering violin to viola), acoustic guitar and percussion (including various drums and some unique percussion instruments) create a exquisite and satisfying sound. Their goal is to find different melodies and rhythms and present them in new and creative ways. Luis Razon on cello, flute, drums, etc… is a musical wizard and demonstrates a complete mastery of the music and playing in perfectly in synch with Lily on percussion and Geo on guitar and violin. Each member of Duende is an accomplished musician. Geo is an amazing violinist and guitarist. Lily in all her beauty, grace and expertise is riveting as a dancer and gives a brilliant performance on percussion and vocals. This season, they are adding keyboard and electric guitar to the show. Duende’s sound is magic. It is a true collaborative effort as Geo writes the music and Lilly and Luis practice all summer, learning the new rhythms and passing creative suggestions back and forth. They have been putting in 12 hour practice days preparing for the new show.Geo will be singing a few new songs and Lilly will be bringing some new, original dance style to the performance. Duende will always keep evolving and that’s what makes them so interesting. Duende is all about 3 souls sharing, collaborating and connecting with world music in the “Muzo” ways. To enhance and create a full sound with just 3 musicians, Duende uses state of the art synchronized double looping. There are no back tracks, just music from these exceptional musi-

cians. We hear the melody in the background and it’s fascinating to see how well the looping works to create a complete sound. Duende brings a unique sound to Banderas Bay this coming season… from the classics to Rumba, pop, rock, gypsy, flamenco and now some African inspired rhythms from Geo’s recent time

in South Africa. Always fresh and innovative! Come and see how the culture of Africa has flavored the new presentation. Dudende performs at Incanto Vallarta on Friday, and at Octopus Garden in La Cruz (on the North Shore) . Go to www.lunarumba. com for more information and ticket sales. or call 322 158 2716.

One night only Amberley Beatty stars as Patsy Cline at Incanto

ong recognized as the leading Patsy Cline tribute artist in North America, Amberley Beatty brings a whole new dimension to the country music legend in ‘Real Patsy’. In the early sixties, Patsy Cline took country music uptown, with songs like “I Fall To Pieces”,“Walking After Midnight” and Willie Nelson’s “Crazy”, successfully melding country, pop and blues. Beatty’s Patsy Cline tribute is spoton, capturing every nuance of every song. One performance only, Mar. 3 at 9:30pm. Singer Hulda Hix and her new band return with Vibology, presenting a unique sound through a creative blend of traditional reggae with popular American music. Feb. 27 Mar. 7, 22 at 9:30pm. Well-Strung is a New York City based foursome that blends vocals and strings, fusing classical music with today’s pop hits. They have had a very successful run this season, selling out show after show at Incanto. Final shows now playing through Feb. 28. The Vallarta Vocalista Ensemble presents its 2018 concert series, In Perfect Harmony: From Baroque to Broadway, with six performances starting Feb. 22. Concerts will include the seldom-heard baroque jewel, Durante’s “Magnificat”, excerpts from “Les Miserables”, Mexican favorites and well-loved jazz standards. Lobo (formerly of Willie & Lobo) will present two special solo concerts featuring a blend of Gypsy, Latin, Celtic, Flamenco, Middle Eastern, Tango and Salsa on on Feb. 25 and Mar. 25 at 7pm. Early reservations are recommended. Instituto des Artes Musicales Puerto Vallarta (IAMPV) presents the second of two cello recitals performed by Grammy Award Winning Cellist Donald Moline, with Jean-Guy Comeau at the piano. Event proceeds support musical education for children in Puerto Vallarta. Feb. 24 at 7pm. Paco Ojeda on Music presents A Cappella Music celebrating the wonders of the human voice with special guests Vallarta Vocalista Ensemble, and Benjamin Schatz, also known as Rachel of the The Kinsey Sicks. Feb. 26 at 4pm. Media Luna presents several shows featuring their full band and Special Guest musicians. They play Flamenco, Rumba, Rock and Huapango in an exciting, highenergy performance. Feb. 26 at 9:30pm. ‘Fun and uplifting’ perfectly

describes Incanto’s ‘Gospelicious’ Gospel Brunch, that is light on religion and BIG on entertainment. Hosted by Tracy Parks and featuring The Holy Host Singers with creator and Musical Director/David Troy Francis and the Resurrection Band. Now every Sunday at 12pm through March. Classic stage comedy ‘Greater Tuna’, starring Ron Spencer and Tracy Parks is now playing. With twenty-two characters played by just two actors, it’s a wild ride to

smalltown Tuna, TX, chock-full of eccentric characters with small minds and big hearts. Directed by Karen Baker. Next performances Feb. 22 at 4pm, Feb. 27 at 7pm. More details on all the shows and to buy tickets online, visit www. IncantoVallarta.com with no online booking fees. Box Office hours are 9am to 11:30pm daily. Casual dining is always available. Happy Hour 2-6pm daily. Incanto is located at Insurgentes 109 (at the Rio Cuale). Call 322 223 9756 for reservations.

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27. MARINA ARTISAN MARKET 28. MOVIE + PICNIC 29. RED CROSS 30. LOS ARCOS NATIONAL PARK

“Real Patsy” Starring Amberley Beatty Merv Buchanan merv@uvs.com

n the early sixties, recording star Patsy Cline brought a new kind of country music to the world with songs like “I Fall To Pieces”,“Walking After Midnight” and Willie Nelson’s timeless “Crazy”, the top jukebox earner of all time. She created a new musical genre, successfully melding, country, pop and blues styles, like no one before her. Patsy Cline became the standard by which female country singers were judged for generations. Her concerts were sell-outs. Her performances on The Grand Ol’ Opry were popular with millions in the U.S.A. and Canada. And her records reached the top of the country and pop charts and remain popular today, despite her untimely death in a 1963 plane crash. She was truly one of a kind. Elmira Ontario based Amberley Beatty, says “practice makes perfect” and the proof of that is evident in the wonderful Patsy Cline tribes she has performed countless times, to the delight of fans across North America. A multi-talented entertainer, she is an accomplished singer, songwriter, recording artist and actress. Besides fronting concert and dance bands, recording five albums and touring the continent, she has also performed lead roles in theatrical productions, including Oliver and Anne of Green Gables. But it’s her fresh, new take on Patsy Cline’s concert performances that has both fans and critics talking. No one else does Cline with the accuracy, passion and depth of Amberley Beatty. “I love great songs and I love Patsy Cline” says Amberley. This may be why she plays the late star so brilliantly. I first witnessed Amberley Beatty’s Patsy Cline tribute at the famous Lancaster Opera House, in upstate New York. Her personification of Cline was so realistic and so deep, it took my breath away. As a longtime Cline fan, I had difficulty taking it all in. The lady “walked the walk” and “talked the talk”,

nailing every nuance of every song, centre-stage or strolling through the aisles, singing and joking with the audience, as Cline did, with her famous 100ft microphone cord. No history lesson, this was hit after hit after hit, followed by thunderous applause. Long recognized as the leading Patsy Cline tribute artist in Canada and the USA, Amberley Beatty brings a whole new dimension to the genre, just as Cline did to country and pop music. Her performances are heartfelt, sometimes irreverent, but always highly entertaining. And over the years she has managed to create a host of new fans for Patsy Cline and herself. Equally comfortable in a colourful “Opry” outfit, or a full-length gown, Ms. Beatty destroys the stereotype image of Patsy Cline as a country bumpkin in a cowboy hat. She spotlights a side of Cline witnessed only by those lucky enough to have attended one of her concerts in the early 60s. The Patsy Cline story is well know to music fans everywhere. Real Patsy is all about the music. Says Amberley “you can read about Patsy Cline’s life on The Internet, but a live concert provides an opportunity to really appreciate her. My mission is to bring Patsy Cline’s songs, personality and entertaining style to life, even if it’s only for 90 minutes”. Ms. Beatty introduces her Real Patsy show to Puerto Vallarta for the first time with a concert at the Incanto Theatre, on Saturday, March 3rd, at 9:30PM. On Sunday, March 4th, she appears at an exclusive dinner show at The Luna Lounge, in Bucerias, followed by a show at La Pina Colada, in Guayabitos, on March 6th. She wraps up her “Mexican mini-tour” with shows in Mazatlan on March 7th, 8th and 9th. More information about these shows is available on the various venue web sites and here in The Vallarta Tribune.

entertainment

February 22 - 28, 2018 www.vallartatribune.com

Christ Church by the Sea

Worldwide Anglican Communion- Parish of the Diocese of Western Mexico

Services Sunday 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 4 to 12yrs

Lent Weds 5p.m.soup-salad/Story of God-MorganFreeman

English-Traditional Holy Communion All faiths welcome-Casual Dress

Join us at the Becas Ball March 9th – Club Regina Christ Church by the Sea has always welcomed people from all walks of life and denominations. We are open to all race creeds political and sexual orientation. Christ Church by the Sea has been serving Puerto Vallarta for 17 years supporting schools, teaching English language, serving the hospitals with layettes for the new born, serving in prison ministry and the handicapped schools Across from airport, northbound service road next to Sixt and Thrifty Car Rental Blvd. Fco. Medina 7936, Puerto Vallarta Questions? Father Jack Wehrs e mail: jackandshirley1@att.net Text 1 619 300 7377 Tel 044 322 229 1129

Web site: www.christchurchbythesea.com Complimentary parking at Sixt Rental Car

local

February 22 - 28, 2018 www.vallartatribune.com

7th Annual Riverfest March 2nd, 3rd and 4th!

Purim is Coming! Celebrate this Jewish holiday in Vallarta

he 7th annual Riverfest music festival is being held at El Rio BBQ Bar on March 2nd, 3rd and 4th! All proceeds go to Pasitos de Luz - a centre for children with severe physical and/ or psychological illnesses. The line up of talent for the 2018 Riverfest is one of the best we have ever had and the cost for this event is remarkable!! For entry, donate just 50 pesos on Friday and Sunday and 100 pesos on Saturday (at the gate only) and take in the music and supporting activities. Here is a look at the weekend! Friday March 2nd - Los Imposibles (TNT) at 2:00 pm followed by the ever popular Bob and Gilberto from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. There will also be 50/50 draw. Saturday March 3rd - gate opens 11:30 am and music starts at 12:00 noon. Musicians include Paul Fracassi, Stolie, Soul Trip, The Jamaican Brothers, Cat Daddy, La Trez Cuartoz and Sylvie & the Zippers. Enjoy a day full of fun including artisan vendors, silent auction of over 100 items, 50/50 draws. You can purchase beverages and our buffet including barbecue from El Rio BBQ, Barcelona’s Tapas paella and Italian from Pasta Fresca from 2:00 pm to 4:30 pm. Also enjoy a short guest appearance by some of the Pasitos de Luz children at 2:00 pm. You can even get your hair cut at the event by Alex Daoud from Alexander A Salon, who

By Donna Feldman

donates all his proceeds for the day to Pasitos! Sunday March 4th - Riverfest presents another day of live music to support Pasitos de Luz with Media Luna starting the afternoon’s music at 1:00 pm followed by Puerto Vallarta’s #1 Mariachi– Real de America at 2 p.m., and PV’s favourite brother band–Los Bambinos at 3:30 p.m. El Rio BBQ • Bar will bring back its Sunday Mexican Grill Buffet (1 p.m. - 5 p.m.) as well, featuring its famous slow-smoked ribs, handmade tortillas and quesadillas,

Upcoming Events

f you have an event you’d like to include here, please email editor@vallar tatr ibune.com. Non-profit/community events are listed free of charge. For a calendar of all events visit vallartatribune. com/eventos Tuesdays – Malecon Sculpture Tour from 9-11am - Meet the artists, learn about the sculptures that line the Malecon and support the local library. Starts in front of the Millennium Sculpture (in front of MacDonalds) Wednesdays – Vallarta Artwalk from 6-10pm through 13 galleries in Centro. See advertisement for more details. Thursdays – Evening Malecon Sculpture Tour. Starts at 6pm at

Galeria Pacific on Aldama in Centro and ends at Demetro Galeria across from Lazaro Cardenas Park. Friday February 23-25 18th Annual San Pancho Music Festival – each night starting at 5pm this free music festival fills the streets with live music and lots of great food, art, crafts and more to purchase. Two stages. Schedule on page 33 this week. Saturday, February 24 Annual Chili Cook Off -Vote for your favourite chili, live music, raffle prizes and more in support of local charities. $250 peso admission includes order of riblets, drink and all you can eat chili. 1-5pm at El Rio BBQ & Bar in Paso Ancho. Wednesday, February 28

grilled chicken and smoked marlin ensalada, with Chef Hollis at the helm. These fundraisers along with donations are the only funds available to Pasitos De Luz so that we can continue to offer free services to 120 families and more! Our goal is to be helping 200 families by 2020 and our waitlist is significant. Join us so you can you can be a part of helping a great cause and can say, ‘I donated today.’ For information - contact condo211@yahoo.ca

urim what? Purim who? On the eve of February 28, 2018, (the 13th of Adar), a joyous holiday will be celebrated. Why? Because the good guys won. Let me explain, in the 4th century BC, the Persian Empire covered 127 lands. All the Jews were subjects of the Empire. King Ahasuerus’ wife, Queen Vashi, did not obey him, so she was executed. Needing a new queen, he held a beauty pageant. A lovely girl named Esther caught his eye and even though she refused to divulge her nationality, she became the new Queen of Persia. Meanwhile, the tyrant, Jew-hating Haman, was appointed prime minister. Esther’s cousin and the leader of the Jews was Mordechai. He refused to bow down to Haman per the king’s orders. Haman was furious. He convinced the king to issue a decree to exterminate all of the Jews on the 13th of Adar. While Mordechai gathered all of the Jews to repent, fast, and pray to God, Esther asked the king and Haman to join her for a feast. As beautiful as Esther was, she was also a brave and gutsy lady. She told King Ahasuerus that she was

Jewish. Obviously the King really loved her because Haman was hung and Mordechai was appointed as Prime Minister. A new decree was issued that granted the Jews the right to defend themselves against enemies. On the 13th of Adar, they were able to defeat most of their enemies. The battle was successfully over the next day and they celebrated and rested. To celebrate Purim today, children wear costumes representing the historical people. The Magellan is read. Every time Haman’s name or anything to do with him is said, everyone boos, stamps their feet and makes noise and at the end of the service, ‘hamantachens’, a 3-sided cookie with fruit, nuts, or chocolate filling that represents Haman’s 3-sides and possibly 3-sided ears, is served. Experience Purim on Wednesday, February 28, by celebrating this joyous holiday with the Puerto Vallarta Jewish Community at 6pm. We will meet at Calles Venezuela and Paraguay on the concrete plateau over-looking the beach and ocean where we will read the Magellan. Dinner will follow at Pan y Que? Bring a cushion, blanket, etc. and a flashlight if you have one. Please RSVP by February 24th to: helth1@sbcglobal.net

More events can be found at www.vallartatribune.com Purim celebration with the Puerto Vallarta Jewish Community at 6 pm. Meet at Calles Venezuela and Paraguay over-looking the ocean where we will read the Magellah. Enjoy hamantashen. Dinner will follow at ¿Pan y Que Please RSVP by February 24 to: helth1@sbcglobal.net Thursday, March 1-4 WesMex in Nuevo Vallarta. One of the preeminent sailing competitions in Mexico. It will used as a qualified for the Mexican Sailing Team to represent the country in various international competitions. Friday, March 2-4 7th Annual Riverfest – Three days for live music, food, silent auction items and great times with

good friends in support of Pasitos de Luz. At El Rio BBQ & Bar. More details in these pages. Sunday, March 4 Run On Wings 5k walk or run / 10k cycle.  Registration 7:30 am, 8 am start Sign up $200 mxn. Sports Center Punta de Mita Includes t-shirts for the first 180 participants and raffle. Wednesday, March 7 Year of the Dog Champagne Brunch for SPCAdePV – Starting at 11am at Casa Kimberly, this delicious brunch includes prime rib and eggs benedictas well as champagne, fashions from Maracuya and much more. Tickets 500 pesos. Email spcapv@gmail.com

Sunday, March 11 Artists for Orphans. A Garden Party - Silent Art Auction held at La Hacienda De Carlota from 2-5 pm. 500.00 pesos Tickets available at: Casandra Shaw Jewelry, 276 Basillo Badillo and Corazon de nina Thrift Store , Bay 8 in Marina Vallarta For more information email Kerfontc@yahoo.ca Thursday, March 15 – 18 Chacala Music Festival is this season and they are looking for musicians, vendors, sponsors and volunteers. If you interested contact them at https://www.chacalamusicfestival. com/

events

February 22 - 28, 2018 www.vallartatribune.com

Time to Vote for your Favourite Chili and Help Support Local Charities

Vallarta to host National Stand-up Paddle Board Championships in March

ow celebrating its 6th year the Annual Charity Chili Cook-Off is set for Saturday, February 24 from 1-5 pm at El Rio BBQ Bar in Paso Ancho. Depending on where you hail from, chili is a personal choice. Does it have hamburger or chuck in it? Sweet and spicy or savoury, rich with veggies or a thin sauce? Now is your chance to tell the world, or at least Puerto Vallarta, what makes a chili, real chili! Fpr a 250 peso donation you will have an “All you can eat” chili feast, featuring recipes from 16+ popular area bars and restaurants and sponsors - all competing for trophies and bragging rights. Winners will be chosen by popular vote from attendees and by ‘professional’ judges. In addition to all that chili, an order of El Rio’s famous smoked riblets and an agua fresca are also included. Regular El Rio menu items will also be available for purchase. Entertainment will be provided by several cookin’ musical groups. Emcees Pearl Burrus and Vera Carp are two of the 22 zany characters from Greater Tuna, a satirical comedy about small towns, small minds and big hearts, now playing at Incanto in Puerto Vallarta. All 22 characters are portrayed by two men, Tracy Parks and Ron Spencer. There are 42 lightning fast costume changes during the show, which will keep you laughing from start to finish. For tickets please visit www.IncantoVallarta.com. What makes chili go down better than Tequila? Nothing! So be sure to bring a non-perishable food item per free raffle ticket to win one of two bottles of PATRON Tequila will be raffled off. Food will be distributed

to those in need. All proceeds from the cook-off go to local charities and the community: Estancia Sabrina Projecto Busca un Amigo A.C. – Day care center for children with disabilities. DIF New Life Home for Boys – Young boys who have had a troubled past. Scholarships to play Torpedos American Football. This year, one boy was awarded a full scholarship to Monterrey Institute of Technology to play football. DIF is a Mexican public institution of social assistance that focuses on strengthening and developing the welfare of the Mexican families. Torpedos American Football A.C. – Pop Warner youth football for boys and girls ages 7 to 17. Donations are made for equipment. Jay Sadler Community Relations Projects A.C.– In 2017, 30 projects completed. In 2016, 18 projects, and over the past 5 years, 100 projects completed. www.jaysadlerproject.com Tickets can be purchased at the door or in advance from any of the event’s sponsors: Nacho Daddy, Captain Don’s, Casa Anita, DZ Route 66, Escondida Sports Bar, Kelly’s Pour Favor, Luke’s Bar, Murphy’s Irish Pub, Lighthouse Specialty Foods, El Torito Sports Bar, 104.3

Radio Station, Torpedos American Football and Navy League/R.I.S.E. Confirmed Professional Judges: Gary Beck, Paul Mayer, Matt McCue, Jim Lee. For more information contact Dennis Rike of the Jay Sadler Project (www.jaysadlerproject.com) dennis2rike(at)hotmail.com El Rio BBQ is located in Paso Ancho, in a beautiful setting alongside the Cuale River. Doors open at 1 pm. Directions: from the south or El Centro/Old Town, take the Libramiento through the small tunnel, then turn right at the signal just past the bridge. From the north, turn left at the signal after the large tunnel and just before the bridge. Free parking will be available. The 04 blue bus from Old Town, which you can catch on Lazaro Cardenas, drops you off at El Rio’s front entrance. The Jay Sadler Project Community Relations (COMREL) program provides necessary resources to improve various charities and non-profit institutions in the Banderas Bay area. The Jay Sadler Project is an approved IJAH Charity and works with the Foundation Punta de Mita. The Foundation can issue a tax deductible 501 C receipt for donations from the US and similar receipts for donations received from Canada and Mexico.

uerto Vallarta will host the National Stand Up Paddle Championships from March 14 to 18. The event will is expected to have 80 competitors who will seek to qualify for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. The event will enclude both the competition and a corresponding festival, allowing people to enjoy the sport as a spectator or competitor. It is the first event of the year for the Stand-up Paddle Boarding

Association and will be headquartered in Puerto Vallarta, in addition to a day of competition in Quimixto, south of the city. This is an important competition as winners will be qualifiers for the Olympic Games of Tokyo 2020, where paddle will be making its debut as an Olympic sport. Felix Garcia, technical director of the Association, said that Puerto Vallarta is the best location for this event, which will be held at Playa Camaron.

A Garden Party - Artist for Orphans A Benefit for: The Corazon de Nina Foundation

n Sunday March 11, 2018 from 2:00pm-4:00pm at Hacienda De Carlota - 388 Lazaro Cardenas Puerto Vallarta Silent Art Auction - Music with “Piel Canela” Tapas and more... Ticket price is 500.00 pesos

Tickets available at: Cassandra Shaw Jewelry, 276 Basillo Badillo and Corazon de Niña Thrift Store, Bay 8 in Marina Vallarta For more information email Kerfontc@yahoo.ca

Year of the Dog Brunch Fundraiser for SPCA de PV The Chinese zodiac for 2018 is the Dog, and in its honour a champagne brunch and fashion show will be held at the Iguana Restaurant in Casa Kimberly on Wednesday, March 7 at 11:00 am to benefit the work of the SPCA of PV. Who doesn’t love brunch? And one with champagne is even better. For only 595 pesos you can enjoy fantastic service in a beautiful setting with unlimited bacon and a fashion show featuring many local celebrities in Designs by Maracuyá, fashions from Tanina Croche and jewelry from Cassandra Shaw. And it all supports the animals in

the care of the SPCA de PV. Through individual donations and fund raising events such as this, the tireless volunteers rescue, rehabilitate and find permanent homes for over 200 animals each year. This event is being entirely underwritten by Hacienda San Angel owner Janice Chatterton, so 100% percent of the proceeds will go to the SPCA de PV. This event sells out each year. Do not miss it! Email to spcapv(at) gmail.com, or stop by the Olas Altas Farmers Market on Saturdays to get your tickets today!

events

February 22 - 28, 2018 www.vallartatribune.com

Learn more about Vallarta’s Malecon Sculptures

fter officially starting its eleventh season in November, the Free Malecon Sculpture Tour that is sponsored by Galeria Pacifico and led by its owner, Gary Thompson will now happen every Tuesday morning at 9:30 through the middle of April. No reservations are required and one must only show by 9:30am at the "Millennium" sculpture next to the Hotel Rosita at the north end of the Malecon ocean promenade. The tour starts with the artist Mathis Lidice explaining the symbols included in the "Millennium" installation and the story behind its creation. Thompson then talks about each sculpture as the group walks south on the Malecon, while Kevin Simpson of Collectika and Peyote People galleries explains the numerous symbols in relief in the pavement that relate to the belief system of the Huichol Indians who live in the Sierra Madre Mountains northeast of Vallarta. The tour takes about two

hours, but Thompson looks for seating in the shade at each sculpture whenever possible. The tour ends at Galeria Pacifico’s location at 174 Aldama Street where free beverages are

provided and on most weeks the artist Jim Demetro is often present to talk about his sculptures in PV, which include the "Dancers of Vallarta," "Woman Washing Clothes," and the burro

Galeria Gallery hours are 11 am to 7 pm Monday - Saturday. Demetro Galeria, located next to Page in the Sun, offers sculpting classes for all levels. Lázaro Cárdenas 169 Puerto Vallarta, México 52 1 322 222 3411 ext 601 jimdemetro1@gmail.com www.demetro.net

sculpture in Lazaro Cardenas Park, "Andale Bernardo." A representative of Vallarta’s public library is also present to accept no pressure donations, since the Biblioteca Los Mangos

receives only tiny fraction of its budget from the government. More information on the tour may be found at GaleriaPacifico. com or by calling 322 222 1982.

riviera nayarit

Polo Anyone?

Chukkas and Bubbles and more in San Pancho By Anita Draycott

orth Americans might describe polo as hockey on horseback. However, Argentinean Ignacio Figueras (known as Nacho), who is the most famous professional polo player today, describes the game as “more like playing golf in an earthquake.” If you’re keen on watching some earth-pounding chukkas, head to La Patrona Polo & Equestrian Club in San Pancho, the only one in the state of Nayarit, founded in 2,000. The mainly Swiss investors who own the parent company, Tierra Tropical, have ambitious plans beyond polo and equestrian facilities. Director General, Rubén Carrillo, told me that they will build a hacienda-style hotel and ranch on La Patrona grounds where the horsey set can stay and board their steeds. Their new Beach Club will open on March 1 in San Pancho on the property that was formerly Costa Azul. Dinners will be served Thursday through Saturday. A spa, meditation and yoga center is also on the drawing board. The company chef, who oversees the polo brunch, Gastronomic Centre for special functions and the Beach Club is the talented Hugo Ahumada who apprenticed for many years with Thierry

Blouet (executive chef of Café des Artistes in PV and Tuna Blanca in Punta Mita). Much of the fresh produce and herbs is harvested from La Patrona’s own organic gardens. Polo originated in Persia around the 6th century and has been called the “sport of kings” because it actually counts princes and kings among its participants. Indeed, if you go for the Sunday Polo Brunch at La Patrona, you will be treated like royalty. Our waiter brought us unlimited Mimosas as we enjoyed the bountiful brunch consisting of salads, guacamole, cheeses and cold cuts followed by heaping platters of barbequed meats and grilled veggies. Judging from the handsome architecture and furnishings of the threefloor polo lounge, the commodious stables and the quality and presentation of the food, one gets the impression that La Patrona is a first-class operation. Around noon and before we got too tipsy from all the bubbles, the announcer summoned the players to ride out onto the field and be introduced. The Sunday we attended there was an exhibition match with players, both male and female, from Mexico, Canada and the U.S. Polo, I learned, is the only

contact sport in which both sexes compete together. A game consists of four to eight seven-minute chukkas (periods) with four players on each team. For those of us who know next to nothing about the game, the bi-lingual announcer brought each exciting pass, strike and goal to life as the players and their mounts galloped fast and furiously up and down the field. After the last chukka, the crowd applauded, the players and their steeds took their “bows.” Aside from polo, La Patrona offers facilities and lessons for riding, jumping and dressage. You may also arrange to go horseback riding along the beach or through the jungles of San Pancho. La Patrona also organizes gastronomic and cultural events. Sunday Polo Brunches at La Patrona Polo & Equestrian Club take place from November until April. The cost, 800 pesos per person, includes mimosas, brunch and the match. Plan to arrive around 11 a.m. www.lapatronaclub.com

Anita Draycott is a freelance travel journalist from Toronto who has chosen to spend her winters in the Riviera Nayarit area for the last dozen years.

February 22 - 28, 2018 www.vallartatribune.com

The Bucerias Beat

riviera nayarit

February 22 - 28, 2018 www.vallartatribune.com

The Bucerias Beat

By Kiri Westby

kiri.westby@gmail.com

Kiri Westby is an international activist and a writer, whose unique blogs have been featured on HuffPost and Good Morning America, and translated into multiple languages. Kiri is a mother of two and a practicing Buddhist, who was born in Boulder, Colorado, but has lived all over the globe. She recently rias Beatrelocated with her family to Bucerias. Nayarit.

same food bank sustains more than 400 families per month, and dispenses almost double that amount over the Christmas holidays! In John’s memory, thousands of people have been fed and, more important, an efficient system for distributing muchneeded resources has been maintained for almost a decade. That system was put to the test in 2015 when regional flooding The JOMFB volunteers double down over the holidays, adding cookies and toys for kids, left thousands homeless. The as well as toiletries for adults. Food Bank kicked into overdrive, handing out an additional 610 dispensas, and sending fourteen have shown the food bank. Our each month is very rewarding. It recently reported that the world’s ho was John Ozzello truckloads of disaster relief aid. fundraisers are always a great is a labor of love and we want to billionaires made enough money and why is there a local Much of the Food Bank’s success time! Of course, without the give back to the country that has in 2017 to end global hunger seven times over! If only a few a food bank named after is due to the sustained efforts of support of Glenn and Tanya accepted us.” In 2010 tragedy struck and of them could have met John, or him? If you’ve spent any signi- Sandi and Randy Nystrom, who Newkirk, (owner›s of YoYo Mo›s ficant time in Bucerias, you’ve have run things for the past nine & The Drunken Duck), the food John passed away suddenly. be fortunate enough to spend an probably heard his name in refe- years (taking over a few months bank would not be where it is It was quite a blow to our small afternoon with Sandi and Randy, rence to feeding hungry families, after it began!). I chatted with today. And today, we have a town and to all of us who loved perhaps we could end hunger but how did it all begin? This Sandi about the impact the Food wonderful team of regular volun- him. He ignited a sense of service entirely. But for now, one only week’s column aims to dig a little Bank has had on Bucerias, but teers and managers who have and vision in all he met. As the has to venture a few blocks East deeper; to discover the mission also the profound effect it has taken on a lot of responsibili- food bank’s website so poignantly of Highway 200 in Bucerias to behind the name, and to spend a had on her and her husband ties. This, in turn, has allowed us reminds us, Mother Theresa see that poverty still affects our The Bucerias Beat personally. few buy moments ourBank’s to free up some time to enjoy a taught, “If you can’t feed 100 immediate community. If you want d Randy (right) suppliestaking for somestock of theof Food first “dispensas.” nsas includecommunity rice, beans, corn flour, oil, pasta, puree. She said, “We are very little retirement. The amount of people, then just feed one.” At to help tackle that problem effeccontributions andsalt, thesugar, and legacy we may leave in our wake. thankful for all the support that people that we are able to help the same time, Time Magazine tively, visit http://www.buceriasI am fortunate to have spent the community and businesses foodbank.com/take-action to get time with John when he was involved. alive and can attest to his natural I spoke to John’s widow Lisa sense of humor, his love for today, who resides back in Colofamily and community, and his rado with her children, and she fierce commitment to bettering wanted to relate that she “feels the world. He and his wife Lisa so proud that his name is still moved to Bucerias in 2008 with attached to a community that he a goal to figure out what was loved deeply.” None of us know needed in local healthcare and when our time on earth will end, address that need. They successbut if we can spend the time we do have helping others overcome fully established the region’s first hardship, perhaps we too will be homecare services, providing lucky enough to leave behind a in-home nursing for many of the name that’s worth memorializing. area’s sick and elderly. Within John (left) and Randy (right) a year of residence, John was buy supplies for some of the Food elected President of Amigos De Bank’s first “dispensas.” Today, Bucerias, a group “dedicated to dispensas include rice, beans, the protection and enhancement corn flour, oil, pasta, salt, sugar, of the quality of life in Bucerias in and puree. cooperation with all residents and The JOMFB volunteers double visitors.” down over the holidays, adding As President, John saw the cookies and toys for kids, as well need for a local food bank and as toiletries for adults. worked diligently to set up distriJohn (left) and Randy (right) buy supplies for some of the Food Bank’s first “dispensas.” bution centers to funnel food to John (left) and Randy supplies forsugar, some of the Food Bank’s first “dispensas.” Today, dispensas include(right) rice, beans,buy corn flour, oil, pasta, salt, and puree. our area’s hungry. Today, that

The Bucerias Beat

A Legacy of Love

The JOMFB volunteers double down over the holidays, adding cookies as well as toiletries for adults.

Today, dispensas include rice, beans, corn flour, oil, pasta, salt, sugar, and puree.

Great Vacation Rental just off the Malecon 3 bed, 1.5 bath, 1264 sq.ft. Asking $179,500 usd

his charming and spacious “loft-style” home is just two block from the iconic “Malecon” Boardwalk and features a huge central living area and lovely outdoor patio to let in plenty of light and breeze. The open kitchen and lofted lounge area is perfect for entertaining and enjoying the views and gentle ocean

breezes! Upstairs are two bedrooms, that share a remodeled bathroom with the master opening onto a lovely terrace with views to the Malecon and bay! The cozy downstairs bedroom would also make a great commercial space or garaje. www.boardwalkrealtypv.com/ properties/casa-joel

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February 22 - 28, 2018 www.vallartatribune.com

Luna Lounge Bucerias Keeps the ‘Good Times’ Rollin’ With Dinner Shows on The North Shore By Debbie White

una Lounge’s dinner shows are incredibly popular this season, as more North Shore residents and visitors discover these world class ‹tribute shows.› Every night has been selling out and the entertainment has been exceptional! More shows continue throughout the months of February and March, so come enjoy a fantastic meal and a great musical performance! ‘The Crazy Bitches’ are back every Tuesday and Wednesday with new music, fabulous costumes and naughty humor. After a wonderful meal from the grill, Miss Diva Divine and her gals will entertain you with musical parodies and adult comedy starring celebrities like, Beyoncé, Celine Dion, Cher, Madonna, Tina Turner, and more! Last week, Luna Lounge welcomed back Chris and Geoff Dahl as ‘The Blues Brothers.’ We

loved their entertaining tribute to Jake and Elwood from Chicago. This tribute show continues to be a Luna Lounge favorite, with a new show added for February 26. Last Sunday, we enjoyed Joni Lambert’s ‘Celine Dion Tribute Show.’ Joni performed as Celine, singing her greatest hits like, “My Heart Will Go On” and “The Power of Love.”

Coming up on Thursday and Friday, Feb. 22 & 23, world famous musician, Cliff Edwards, performs his ‘Eric Clapton Tribute Show.’ We’ll hear favorites like, “Tears in Heaven,” “Lay Down Sally” and “Cocaine.” Singer, composer, guitarist and Rock n’ Roll Hall of Famer, Eric Clapton will be portrayed in a world-class tribute performance! There are a few tickets left

for the 23rd. On Saturday, Feb 24., Luna Lounge is excited to present, ‘Bohemia Viva: The Sound Garden.’ This is a truly original and unique performance that you won’t want to miss. Argentinian duo, Bohemia Viva, will perform a wonderful selection of inspiring Latin music and favorite pop tunes performed in Spanish. The harmonies that

Andrea and Luis create are incredible and Luis’ guitar accompaniment is outstanding. Andrea and Luis will speak to the audience in English and translations will be given for the songs. Experience ‘live music’ at its best with Bohemia Viva! Don’t miss the ‘ZZ Top Tribute’ on Sunday, Feb. 25, featuring classics like, “Legs,” “Gimmie All Your Lovin’” and “Sharp Dressed Man.” And on Sunday, Feb. 26, Chris and Geoff Dahl return with an encore performance of The Blues Brothers tribute show, ‘Soul Brothers.’ The audience just loved their shows last week and this is your last chance to catch this popular act. And in March, you’ll see Miss Conception Mar. 3, Patsy Cline Mar. 4, Bon Jovi Mar. 8, Amy Armstrong Mar 10, Bryan Adams Mar. 11, Rod Stewart Mar. 15, St. Patrick’s Day Show Mar. 17,Kenny Rogers Mar. 22 and Dwight Blake and The Groove Band Mar 24. For tickets and information about Luna Lounge shows, go to www.lunaloungebucerias.com . And remember to bring your friends and guests along with you for an evening of fine dining and worldclass entertainment!

riviera nayarit

February 22 - 28, 2018 www.vallartatribune.com

Life in la Cruz Cindy Bouchard

cindy@VillaAmordelMar.com

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

The H’art Project: Kids creating peace and love in two countries

his is a story of inspiration, love and what has become a mission of peace. I believe that anytime children learn about others in another country, then create a bond with them peace emanates. Barb Sihota, a primary school teacher in Richmond, BC, Canada started hatching this model of peace not fully realizing the impact on so many.

When I asked Barb what inspired her to create this project. ”Invited to share in Chris and Cindy’s twentieth wedding anniversary in Mexico I wondered what do we get as a gift?” I work in a grade three class with a teacher that was very flexible with project work and since Cindy is a fan of hearts I wanted to give her hearts. I saw a wall of hearts in a magazine and the light went on in my head that was what I was going to do; have the children make a heart. The heart done by the student who did the Mexican flag is everyone’s favourite! That student painted to the tune of his own drum and did not follow instructions! Who

can curb an artist to change his ways! Lol. The children loved the idea and their mission was to have Cindy cry tears of joy and amazement! (It worked!) We had discussions around giving someone memories, what love means to them, doing something for someone even if you don’t personally know them. They were very particular, careful, patient and focused while painting; on a mission to make it their best artwork ever. The kids love that they are truly international artists now! They are excited about the artwork hanging in the lobby of a hotel, but I think unaware of the honour that this is.” Fast forward to this year and Barb and her friend Fiona, who now resides a major portion of the year in La Cruz and teaches English at the local school, created what I call a mission of Love and Peace, between the school in Richmond and the one in La Cruz. Barb worked with her students ‘back home’ and brought their artwork and hung it on the school wall here. Then she brought all the materials for the children here to do the same, taking those artworks back to Richmond. She enrolled many of us to help, which was such a pleasure. The rockstar of the day… other than the children and of course Barb, was ten-year-old Diego who I asked to assist translate what Barb was teaching. We couldn’t have done it without him. Barb’s overriding goal was peace, “Working to bridge a cultural gap and build an awareness of other countries other than Canada and their own little community of Richmond. To teach our Canadian children, both born and recent immigrants, that there are other children that are not as fortunate as they are and to be aware of the global community and not just their immediate surroundings. Building peace through h’art pals (kinda like a penpal).”

I received the ultimate compliment, which is so humbling “To think it all started out of a place of love in the heart of Cindy. Your inspiration and ability to bring people together makes this a perfect bridge between two little schools. You never know. Perhaps the idea will spread further and more kids will be brought together by h’art!!!” Thanks to Barb and the team she brought together! For the longer version of this story please check our blog; http://www.villaamordelmar.com/blog/

Your weekly schedule of

Artisan Markets & Events

inVallarta and Riviera Nayarit

There are regular markets called ‘tianguis’ that occur in many neighbourhoods throughout the week. You can usually buy fruits and veggies, clothing, household items. The markets and events here represent local producers, artisans and entrepreneurs. Unless noted (*) most run from the first week of November through April. FRIDAY *Marsol Friday Market by the Pier - 9:30 am -1:30 pm Open every Friday all year located on Francisca Rodriguez street Sayulita Mercado del Pueblo - 9am -2 pm SATURDAY Olas Altas Farmer’s Market - 9:30 am - 2 pm at Lazaro Cardenas Park *Three Hens & a Rooster Market 9 am - 1:00 pm Every Saturday all year, locate at Venustiano Carranza 466 SUNDAY Huanacaxtle Farmer’s Market - 9am -3pm - Located at La Cruz Marina TUESDAY Riviera Market 9am - 2 pm Located in Nuevo Vallarta in the parking lot behind the Casino. WEDNESDAY Bucerias Forever Spring Market - 9am - 1pm -Lazaro Cardenas / Javier Mina - Opposite La Vida condos *Vallarta ArtWalk - 6 pm - 10 pm See their map for locations. Bohemio Artisans Co op - 625 Lazaro Cardenas, Old Town Wednesday, Friday and Sunday 10 - 2 THURSDAY Bucerias ArtWalk - 7-9pm - along Lazaro Cardenas Marina Vallarta Night Market- 6 pm -10 pm - along the marina

riviera nayarit

18th Annual San Pancho Music Festival Feb. 23-25

Punta de Mita Expedia’s “Best Place To Visit In 2018”

he annual 3-day Music Festival will be held Friday, Feb. 23rd through Sunday, Feb. 25th, 2018 in San Pancho’s Plaza del Sol. The Music Festival features regional, national and international artists on two alternating stages. The event begins at 5pm each day, with performances up until 11pm each night. A wide variety of food, beverage and arts and crafts will be available for purchase in and around the Plaza. A limited number of tables and chairs will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, so it is recommended that visitors bring their own chairs or blankets. The Music Festival is supported by the generous donations of attendees, local residents, and businesses in San Pancho. Make your tax deductible donation to the San Pancho Music Festival by visiting our website: https://sanpanchomusicfestival.com/ CD’s and merchandise will be for sale at the Festival, and 100% of the proceeds go directly to the performing artists.

SCHEDULE FOR THE 2018 SAN PANCHO MUSIC FESTIVAL VIERNES/FRIDAY February 23 5:00pm - 5:45pm Stage 1 Grupo Fantasy 5:45pm - 6:15pm Stage 2 Juan Vilmos 6:15pm - 7:00pm Stage 1 Steve Goldberg and Los Olvidados 7:00pm - 7:30pm Stage 2 Karen Bentley Pollick & Don Slepian 7:30pm - 8:15pm Stage 1 Moonset 8:15pm - 8:45pm Stage 2 Steve O’Connor and Zoe Chilco 8:45pm - 9:30pm Stage 1 Dave Fisher w/ Tony Kovacic & Aaron Fisher 9:30pm - 10:00pm Stage 2 Jenna and Rolf (Preview) 10:00pm - 11:00pm Stage 1 Panta Rei SABADO/SATURDAY February 24 5:00pm - 5:45pm Stage 1 Julio Cabrera Quartet 5:45pm - 6:15pm Stage 2 Las Naves/Valentín Gonzalez 6:15pm - 7:00pm Stage 1 Tatewari 7:00pm - 7:30pm Stage 1. Beto, Carlos, and Andy 7:30pm - 8:15pm Stage 1 Jenna and Rolf 8:15pm - 8:45pm Stage 2 Frida’s Eyebrow 8:45pm - 9:30pm Stage 1 Jeff Oster (feat. Michael Manring, Celso Alberti, and Chas Eller) 9:30pm - 10:00pm Stage 2 Frida’s Eyebrow 10:00pm - 11:00pm Stage 1 Ensemble TImbon Big Band DOMINGO/SUNDAY February 25 5:00pm - 5:45pm Stage 1 Soul Trip 5:45pm - 6:15pm Stage 2 Limonea 6:15pm - 7:00pm Stage 1 La Patrona 7:00pm - 7:30pm Stage 2 James Gelfand and Chas Eller 7:30pm - 8:15pm Stage 1 Ojo de Agua 8:15pm - 8:45pm Stage 2 Swing Break Quintet 8:45pm - 9:30pm Stage 1 Grim Factory 9:30pm - 10:00pm Stage 2 Juny, Andy & Friends 10:00pm - 11:00pm Stage 1 Caravane https://sanpanchomusicfestival.com/

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One of the largest online travel providers in the world found the best places in Mexico for an escape—and the Punta de Mita was one of them!

unta de Mita, in the Riviera Nayarit was included by Expedia Mexico among the Top 10 Best Places to Visit in 2018. These destinations made the list thanks to their impressive landscapes or their incredible attractions.   In this case, the Riviera Nayarit’s coastal town stood out for its luxurious and exclusive hotel accommodations, as well as the many opportunities it offers for fishing, humpback whale watching, or visiting one of the top golf resorts

in the world.   Expedia.com is one of the largest online travel sites in the world with over 2 million users. According to the article published on Blog.Expedia.mx, “Every year we strive to showcase the places that should be on every traveler’s go-to list, and this year was no exception.” The article also pointed out five things to do in Punta de Mita:   Admire the kaleidoscopic flora and fauna on a snorkeling or diving

tour. Indulge your palate at any of its traditional seafood restaurants at the water’s edge.  For surfing aficionados, Punta Mita offers several places for both beginners and more experienced surfers.  Playing golf by the sea at one of the two courses designed by superstar Jack Nicklaus.  There’s also the possibility of moving away from the beach a little and enjoy zip-lining or mountain biking.

New Nayarit highway links Jala, Compostela

54-kilometer stretch reduces travel time between Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta

new 5-billion-peso (US $269 million) stretch of highway in the Pacific coast state of Nayarit will help to reduce travel time between Guadalajara and the resort city of Puerto Vallarta. The four-lane, 54-kilometer road runs between the municipalities of Jala and Compostela, cutting the journey between the two tourist destinations to just over 30 minutes. An additional 14-kilometer stretch of road goes into the center of the second of the two pueblos mágicos, or magic towns. The federal Secretariat of Communications and Transportation (SCT) estimates that more than 6,400 vehicles will use the new road on a daily basis and it will benefit 110,000 residents who live in the region. At an official opening ceremony, President Enrique Peña Nieto said that 39 of 52 highway projects his administration committed to build

have now been completed. The president also recognized the impact that the new highway will have on improving connectivity between the states of Jalisco and Nayarit. Both Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Vallarta will receive a boost in tourist numbers similar to when the highway between Mexico City and Acapulco first opened, Peña Nieto said. Federal Transportation Secretary Gerardo Ruiz Esparza added

that the new highway will help to reduce the number of accidents in the region. Ruiz also recognized the efforts of the construction companies that worked on the project and praised the contribution of the state-owned development bank Banobras and the National Infrastructure Fund (Fonadin). Ruiz said that another new stretch of highway in Nayarit between Las Varas and Compostela is 90% complete and will open

Where can I find the Vallarta Tribune?

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February 22 - 28, 2018 www.vallartatribune.com

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In Puerto Vallarta the Vallarta Tribune is available for pick up at the tourist offices in the main plaza as well as in Park Lazaro Cardenas. You can shop and pick up a copy of the Tribune at the Friday Marsol Market, the Olas Altas Farmer’s

Market and the ‘Three Hens and a Rooster Market, 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. We distribute 10,000 copies in high season every Thursday. Marina Vallarta: Benittos, The Coffee Cup, Re/Max, San Javier Hospital, Marriot Resort

Nuevo Vallarta: Eddies, Barracuda’s, Nopalitos, US Consulate, Chasers Sports Bar. Bucerias: SolMexico, Yo-Yo Mo’s, Luna Lounge, Esquina 22 La Cruz: Oso’s Oyster Bar, Octopus Garden, Britannia Pub

BANDERAS BAY SHOPPING AND SERVICES Three Hens & A Rooster Market on Saturdays

LOCAL FOOD. LOCAL PLACES. LOCAL PEOPLE Enjoy a Culinary & Cultural Journey though Old Town, Pitillal & Downtown Neighborhoods of Puerto Vallarta! MX: 322-222-6117 US: 1888-360-9847

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vallartafoodtours.com

Tel. (322) 222 2675, (322) 222 5402, w Celular: 322 175 0412 mundodeazulejos@hotmail.com www.talavera-tile.com

Marsol Friday Market by the Pier

aime is a Honey Maestro – he knows what his bees eat and why. Happy bees are essential for human happiness; ask him about that, he’ll tell you why. Honey bees are in danger all over the world and Jaime knows why and how you can help. And, Jaime’s honey and other products are as sweet as he is! Claudia is new to Marsol Friday Market and has beautiful handwoven baskets and pottery; she will happily explain their origins. Our favorite monthly event is coming up next week: Join us for our BAZAAR, next Tuesday, February 27th from 10 am to 2 pm. You can check with Sherry this Friday Market to see if there are spaces available if you have a closet or two to clean out. It’s always a fun few hours and there are some fabulous home furnishings coming up for sale.

When was the last time you had angel food cake? One taste of Kim McKindle’s angel food cake will pop you right back to childhood! There is a reason most bakers in Vallarta won’t even try to bake it – our high humidity is the biggest deterrent so get some while you can! Kim’s is served with her homemade lemon curd. Fabulous! See you for Market and next Tuesday for our great Baazar! The Marsol Friday Market by the Pier is open from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm.

Pandamonia Boutique Wine Bags ~ Fruit Breads Fudge ~ Horseradish Pillows ~ Clothing and more

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

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

www.vallartatribune.com FABFABRICFELLOWS

MURPHY’S irish pub Located on the Historic Malecon across from the lighthouse statue (El Faro) beautiful sunset views every night!

Aprons - Pillows Masks - Cooling Ties

Delicious traditional pub menu. Live Rock Music - Wed - Sat @10:30pm Watch all sports w 2 satellites. Pool Table.

Three Hens & A Rooster Market V. Carranza 466 Saturdays 9 to 1 Contact Bill Kelly at

484 Morelos - 2nd floor - Centro Vallarta Open daily 11 am

unonumerobomb@gmail.com www.thewitcherysalon.com

Murphys Puerto Vallarta

Three Hens & A Rooster Market News

veryone loves ice cream, right? And now, you can enjoy freshly made ice cream at Three Hens; try the mango – delicious. Venezuelan food is selling out fast every week. See Luz for arepas. Bill Kelly has some exciting new aprons on display (on him!) Bring your ideas if you can’t find your ideal apron and he’ll get it done. Right next door, Pat Wagner’s Pandemonia Boutique continues with fifty percent off clothes and shoes. Marcia’s new “Palitos” - bamboo sticks for your hair – are embellished with sparkly jewels and chunks of mother-of-pearl. All three of these boutiques will be open this Thursday evening, February 22, from 5 to 8 pm for the first

“Courtyard Evening of Local Color”, presented by the new Art Guild PV. The afternoon/early evening event will present new, upcoming painters from Vallarta and el Tuito, as well as ceramics by Froylan, textile collages by Carol-Lynn. We hope to see new works by Quetzal! There will be tequila tasting and wine and gourmet treats created by Vallarta Chef Mavi Graf. It will be the start of something great. For delicious food ready to take home, a welcoming atmosphere to casually shop and sample treats, Three Hens offers new and exciting products every week of the year. Three Hens & A Rooster Market is open every Saturday from 9 am to 1 pm at Venustiano Carranza 466 in Old Town Vallarta.

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

Sherry Vallarta

MARSOL FRIDAY MARKET BY THE PIER BAZAAR TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 27. 10am to 2pm

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MARSOL HOTEL BY THE PIER 103 FRANCISCA RODRIGUEZ OLAS ALTAS

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

mexicasupplement@gmail.com

bazaar Tuesday, JANUARY 16, 10 am to 2 pm Furniture, HOME ITEMS, clothes and more

MARSOL HOTEL 103 Francisca Rodriguez

charities

February 22 - 28, 2018 www.vallartatribune.com

Would you like to live here? SPCA of Puerto Vallarta

ave you ever thought about what it would be like to live in PV for a week, a season or the rest of your life? And where you might like to live? The Home Tours, run by the International Friendship Club (IFC) will give you a peek at some of the beautiful homes that are perched high in the hills of Conchas Chinas, clinging to the cliffs above Banderas Bay or nestled behind high walls and surrounded by gardens close to the market in the colonia of Emiliano Zapata. The tours run every Tuesday and Wednesday mornings and start from the Sea Monkey Restaurant, located on Aquiles Serdan on the beach, at 10:30. Seating on our comfortable, air-conditioned buses is limited, so it’s best to buy your

ickets are now on sale for our upcoming fundraiser. Enjoy an incredible champagne brunch at The Iguana in Casa Kimberly. If you haven’t been to Casa Kimberly before, you will enjoy the stunning views at this gorgeous boutique hotel while dining on a large variety of dishes that includes prime rib and Eggs Benedict. Our guests will be treated to Designs by Maracuyá, fashions from Tanina Croche and jewelry by our friend Cassandra Shaw. The fundraiser is totally underwritten by our founder, Janice Chatterton, with 100% of the proceeds going to the SPCA. On March 7, doors open at 11:00 and the ticket price is $595 pesos. You can contact us at spcapv@ gmail.com to purchase a ticket or stop by our table at the Olas Altas Farmers Market on Saturday to pick up a ticket. Special thanks to Lorraine Luba-Foster for dropping off a donation of leashes and collars at the Olas Altas Farmers Market this

past Saturday. Be sure and come by to visit us. You can find us at the Olas Altas Farmers Market each Saturday from 9:00 am until closing at 2:00 pm. The market is located in Lázaro Cárdenas Park. This is in addition to our presence at the Marina Art & Market each Thursday from 6:00 pm until 10:00 pm. Be sure to come by and say hello. You can pick up one of our special “Kiss my Mutt” t-shirts, a gorgeous 2018 calendar or even a special bag made locally by our friend Lisa Love. All these items and a few other goodies can be yours for a small donation which helps support our rescue efforts. Your donations are always welcome and needed! We have scheduled tours to our sanctuary, by reservation only, on Tuesdays and Thursdays. If you have your own transportation, please let us know. To reserve a spot on a tour, contact us at spcapv@gmail.com. We appreciate any donations you can bring for our rescues and

if going to the sanctuary, please feel free to bring treats for the staff as they truly appreciate it. Those items we ALWAYS need include: collars and leashes; toys and more toys! both stuffed and hard plastic (no soft plastic as they can chew off pieces and swallow); large towels; blankets; sweaters and coats; post-surgical cones (both the cone shaped and donut inflatable ones). Our rescues are now fed a total raw diet so please refrain from bringing any dog food or treats, but we do have healthy homemade treats available (at cost) for the dogs when you visit the sanctuary. To see our animals available for adoption, visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/spcapv. There are photos and also individual albums of our rescues as well as a bit of their history. Please be aware that our adoption fee within Mexico is $2,000 pesos. Contact us at spcapv@gmail.com to obtain an adoption application. 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 the Olas Altas Farmers Market, the Marina Art & Market or 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.

those are involved in…………… Students at the British American School are required to perform community service as part of their curriculum and they have chosen to help a home for the elderly and a kindergarten. At the home for the old folks the Grade 10 students have been involved in interviewing the residents and then writing and publishing a book of their memoirs. I’d love to read it and hear the voices from the past speak of life in Mexico over the last seventy or eighty years. Fascinating! It’s a heart-warming experience for the two generations to get together. The home is always in need of items to make the elders lives a little better and the students have suggested that we fund the purchase of books, games, small

tables and a speaker for playing music. At the Kindergarten Gonzalo Chapela y Blanco the Grade 12 students are designing health related activities such as hand-washing and tooth-brushing. They also make and share nutritious snacks and lunches with the tiny mites. During the next few months they are planning to design and build a safe crossing for the street in front of the kindergarten. IFC has supported ALAS, Escuela de Canto, since its inception in 2013, when Kharla Baragon decided to use her professional talents to teach song and dance to children from all types of families. Some of them are able to pay for their lessons but half of them are not. Kharla also brings in a

psychologist to help with some personal situations that come from difficult family situations. The group performs many times each year in communities around town such as Plaza Caracol, Teatro Vallarta and Stages with occasional opportunities to sing at a special event at a resort like Vidanta. It’s a tough job to raise money for this sort of thing but IFC believes that the opportunities and love given to these students by Kharla is life-changing. One of her students is now working at Actll and another is at university studying to be a teacher. The goals of IFC are to make the lives of Mexicans in Jalisco a little better and to provide an enjoyable place to meet and make friends for ex-pats. Please join us.

By Janice Gonzalez

tickets a day or so before online at www.ifctoursforvallarta.com or at our office which is at the northeast corner of Insurgentes where the bridge crosses the River Cuale. For details about IFC go to www.ifcvallarta.com Tours last about three hours and require the ability to walk on cobbled streets and to climb quite a few stairs. You will enjoy the commentary of our knowledgeable docents who will be able to answer all your questions about the homes, life in Puerto Vallarta and the International Friendship Club (IFC). The tour costs $600 pesos and all of the profits are used by the IFC to support its cleft palate program and to provide financial help to about 20 charities here in Puerto Vallarta.

What’s on at I.F.C ? By John Warren

he International Friendship Club, popularly known as the IFC, has been around in Puerto Vallarta since 1985 when a group of ex-pats decided to raise money to give Mexican kids free surgery and care to fix cleft palates and cleft lips. The money came from touring visitors and residents of PV through some of the nicest homes here and using the money raised to help the children. We still do both. For details of the home tours please see www.toursforvallarta.com IFC has grown over the last third of a century and now helps about twenty charities and has a wide array of activities that help members learn and play. Some of the activities offered during next week are bridge lessons, social

bridge, Spanish lessons for four different levels of ability, a movie night (The Good, The Bad and The Ugly), contemplative dialogue, games of bunco, a history lecture abut Mexico, restorative yoga, a new members’ orientation night and the Friday night dinearound. Details of all these events can be found at www.ifcvallarta.com. Everyone is welcome to come to any or all events. Income generated from the IFC Home Tours and other activities is used to support not only the cleft palate program but also our free dental outreach program in Boca de Tomatlan and our English teaching program. The charities we support fall into two major categories, education and social services. Here’s what a couple of

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February 22 - 28, 2018 www.vallartatribune.com

Los Bambinos sensational Dinner-Show a hit for 2018!

uring the past decade, Los Bambinos have earned their name as the most successful independent musical group in Puerto Vallarta. When it comes to noteworthy musicians in Puerto Vallarta, there are a lot of fish in the sea. The Morales brothers however always strive to set themselves apart from the competition. The group has taken strategic steps to grow their musical skills, to set in motion a unique and unforgettable expression of their talent for their growing community of supporters. Los Bambinos was the first local group to self- produce and manage their own weekly performances. The experience performing at the Santa Barbara Theatre (over on Olas Altas street, in 2005-2007) was a significant step in Los Bambino’s career. These shows taught the group to select musical arrangements, animate their audience and harness stage anxieties. During this time, demand for private performances at weddings, anniversaries and parties exploded, and their public stage experience shined in these events. Now in 2018, the group takes their business to the next level, as they bring restaurant talent into the musical experience they offer the Puerto Vallarta community. Los Bambinos new Dinner-Show venture features Italian chefs (yes, they too are brothers!) and

WWW.VALLARTATRIBUNE.COM

an all-star wait staff that does not miss a beat. Positive feedback and satisfied comments on the restaurant are non-stop. The group is humbled as they can take their love for performing to the next level. Come to Bambinos Trattoria to feed your body with an authentic Italian meal, while Los Bambinos nourish your soul with heartfelt harmony and masterful music Los Bambino’s six weekly, 8-10 PM shows: Monday & Tuesday Beatle Mania: Tribute to the Beatles Wednesday & Thursday Big Girls Don’t Cry featuring Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons Friday & Saturday Fiesta Latina | Latin Party Each of their shows highlights the tasteful mix of traditional and International tunes that Vallarta loves about this talented group.  Los Bambinos present their shows at Bambinos Trattoria (www.bambinostrattoria.com) located at Aguacate #314, at the corner of Carranza street in Old Town Puerto Vallarta, just before Mundo de Azulejos. Dinner seating begins at 6:30 PM Music starts at 8:00 PM. Bambinos Trattoria is Find show and ticket Information online or (322) 222-4357, English spoken. See you at Bambinos Trattoria!

local

February 22 - 28, 2018 www.vallartatribune.com

Hospiten Offers Prenatal Classes for Expecting Parents By Daniel Moreno

he private hospital, Hospiten is offering clases in Puerto Vallarta in pre natal care and childbirth to families who are in the last trimester of their pregancies. Clarissa Encina, Prenatal Educator and Doula, helps to educate expecting parents by discussing breastfeeding, pregnancy care, professional accompaniment in childbirth and of course the most quiered and discussed what to do at the time of delivery. Clarissa offers that, â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is a course designed to inform expec-

tant parents about the process of birth of their baby, helping them to trust in the normal process of childbirth and the capacity of the woman.â&#x20AC;? She emphasized the anatomy and psychology of childbirth, stages and phases of labor, giving birth, management of contractions, natural strategies to relieve pain (relaxation, breathing, massage, use of heat and cold, attention focus, music, hydrotherapy , aromatherapy), positions and movements that facilitate labor (use of ball,

rebozo, pressure techniques), general medical intervention, use of epidural block and cesarean section, creating a delivery plan, postpartum (physical, emotional and home care) ), baby care at home and breastfeeding. Participants were also taught how to tie the rebozo correctly to carry the baby, what to do when the newborn cries, the proper way to bathe the baby and basic details when welcoming to a new member of the family.