Vallarta Tribune - Issue 1149 April 11 - 17, 2019 by Vallarta Tribune

NEWS

HOLIDAYS

VIBES &VICES -

Vidanta launches Mexican cruiseship

Semana Santa - All the things you need!

AJ reviews the local correctional spa

Page 6

Page 9

Page 26 April 11 - 17, 2019 Year 22 Free Issue 1149

FR EE

GU ID E

ALL-INCLUSIVE NEWS AND ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE FOR VALLARTA AND RIVIERA NAYARIT

Spring Time Blooms Around the Bay page 8

MAP OF BANDERAS BAY

PAGE 16-17

VALLARTA SHOPPING PAGES 28-29

EVENTS PAGES 22-23

CROSSWORD PAGE 30

WWW.VALLARTATRIBUNE.COM | FB/VTATRIBUNE | TWITTER @VALLARTATRIBUNE | INSTAGRAM @VALLARTATRIBUNE

welcome

Welcome to Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit

t the Tribune we want you to have the best experience possible while you explore Puerto Vallarta, the Bay of Banderas and Riviera Nayarit. Here are some helpful tips for traveling.

the past two decades, the quality of the water tested at the source varies greatly from what comes out of the tap at the other end. So do be careful. If you want to be doubly sure, you can pick up bottled water just about anywhere.

TIME ZONE: The entire state of Jalisco is on Central Time, as is the southern part of the State of Nayarit starting from Lo de Marcos in the north.

EXPORTING PETS: Falling in love with the street dog outside your hotel is easy to do and it’s also easy to bring them home with you too. The process is inexpensive and only takes a day or two. You need a certificate of health from a local vet among other things. For the most up-to-date information contact the Puerto Vallarta SPCA at spcapv@ gmail.com.

BUSES: A system of urban buses with different routes can bring you from one end of the bay to the other and all the spots in between. If you’re going further than San Pancho, head to the main bus terminal to catch a ‘Pacifico’ bus. Current fare is 10.00 pesos. TAXIS: There are set rates within defined zones of town. Do not enter a taxi without agreeing on the price with the driver first. Make a note of the taxi number in case you leave something behind. Drivers typically do not carry change. UBER: New in 2017 to Puerto Vallarta, Uber is still experiencing some growing pains particularly in the state of Nayarit. Uber is about 25-50% cheaper than a taxi, but this is subject to change. The benefits of using Uber are set fares and the ability to follow up directly with your driver if there is an incident or you leave an item behind. MONEY EXCHANGE: Typically a bank will give you a higher rate of exchange than the exchange booths (Caja de Cambio). You will need your passport. Better yet, use your bank card to withdraw funds from any ATM. Note that ATM’s in the banks are the safest to use and charge lower fees. DRINKING WATER: While Puerto Vallarta’s water has been awarded a certification of purity for

COMMON SENSE: Just as you wouldn’t walk around your hometown drunk and belligerent, it is not acceptable to do that here. While Mexico is a tolerant culture, basic politeness is appreciated. Don’t pee in the streets. Don’t flash your money or expensive gadgets. Pay attention to your surroundings. Know where you are going. Pay your bills (and don’t forget to tip). And have fun! DRINKING AND DRIVING: First off – just don’t. The consequences are not worth it. Taxis or Ubers are cheap and plentiful. Fines are as much as 12,000 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 guilt is presumed until your innocence can be proven. This is a very difficult lesson to learn if you are visiting from the United States or Canada. Immediately contact your consulate for assistance.

Director Noemi Zamora noemi.zamora@cps.media Editor Lic. Madeline Milne mmilne@Vallartatribune.com Sales Team editor@vallartatribune.com Designer Cynthia Estela Andrade Gutiérrez cysandra@gmail.com Web Manager Oscar Grajeda

April 11 - 17, 2019 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. 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

IMMIGRATION: 322.224.7719 CONSUMER PROTECTION: 01.800.468.8722

FIRE DEPARTMENT: 322.223.9476 AMBULANCE: 322.222.1533

TOURISM OFFICES Jalisco: 322.221.2676 Nayarit: 322.297.1006

Ahoy Cruisers! NAME

PASS

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

DATE

CARNIVAL SPLENDOR 3,200 27.03.2019 ROYAL PRINCESS 3,600 27.03.2019 NIEUW AMSTERDAM 2,106 28.03.2019 VOLENDAM 1,850 31.03.2019 CARNIVAL 3,200 02.04.2019 PRINCESS CRUISES 3,600 03.04.2019 MS AMADEA 694 03.04.2019 HOLLAND AMERICA 2,106 04.04.2019 CELEBRETY 2,850 05.04.2019 HOLLAND AMERICA 1,850 06.04.2019 PRINCESS CRUISES 2,400 08.04.2019 CARNIVAL 3,200 10.04.2019 HOLLAND AMERICA 2,104 10.04.2019 PRINCESS CRUISES 3,600 10.04.2019 NORWEGIAN CRUISES 4,004 10.04.2019 HOLLAND AMERICA 2,106 11.04.2019 CARNIVAL 3,200 17.04.2019 PRINCESS CRUISES 3,600 17.04.2019

In the month of April Puerto Vallarta & Riviera Nayarit welcomes 66,828 passengers! Bienvenido! NAME

PASS

DATE

NORWEGIAN CRUISES 4,004 17.04.2019 HOLLAND AMERICA 2,106 18.04.2019 PRINCESS CRUISES 3,080 21.04.2019 PRINCESS CRUISES 1,974 21.04.2019 CARNIVAL 3,200 24.04.2019 PRINCESS CRUISES 3,600 24.04.2019 NORWEGIAN CRUISES 4,004 24.04.2019 DISNEY CRUISES LINE 2,400 25.04.2019 HOLLAND AMERICA 2,106 25.04.2019 HOLLAND AMERICA 1,840 27.04.2019

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 * www.vallartatribune.com * https://www.facebook.com/VtaTribune/

Cut out and put near your phone for handy reference

editorial

Editor’s

Note

editor@vallartatribune.com

As the crowds descend upon us

f you’re still in town and reading this week’s newspaper it may be too late for you to escape. Semana Santa begins on Friday when schools let out and the children are released for a two-week holiday. Families from across Mexico, as well as Easter/Spring breakers from Canada and the USA will be swarming the beaches around the bay and in Riviera Nayarit. It’s a noisy, hectic time with parties and fireworks competing with church bells and rockets to see who can be the loudest. There was a time you needed to stock up on food, alcohol and cash from the ATM but with recent development/ expansions, you’re probably okay to find the basics around town. That said, keep your tank full, and a few pesos in your wallet, just in case.

There’s not much you can do about the noise, except appreciate the enthusiasm that these visitors have in enjoying everything this slice of paradise offers. If nothing else now is an important time to collar and tag your pets. The loud noises and excessive traffic can cause pets to get lost easily. Do them a favor and make it easier to find their way home to you. A few years ago I thought it would be a good idea to clean up the park behind colonia Las Gaviotas that is also home to the CANICA clubhouse (where children with cancer and their families can meet for support) and in conjunction with local businesses and charities host a fundraiser – that plan has unfortunately gone completely sideways but reemerged as GraffitiFest. This weekend, Saturday and Sunday there will be tons of local graffiti artists/muralists on hand creating

April 11 - 17, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com

new fresh artwork, as well as classes for children, live music and some other coordinated events. Admission is free. Pop over if you’re interested in seeing how they make their magic happen. Info on this week’s Events page. For those of you in the know, AJ has a full page detailing his latest exploits. It’s a thing of beauty. Hilarious but disturbing. Infuriating but insightful. Just stop what you’re doing and go read it now, I’ll wait. … Was I right?! Something’s have come up for me so I’m out of town for a week or so. It was not intentional, I swear! Fingers crossed, I’ll be back next week. Until then, embrace the crowds. Go with the flow. Buy some earplugs. Safe travels, Madeline

DO YOU REALLY NEED

THAT STRAW?

Free Malecon Sculpture Tours Finishes for the Season

he Free Malecon Sculpture Tours that Galeria Pacifico has been sponsoring during the high season on Tuesday mornings at 9:30 for the last thirteen years will occur for the wrap up this season next Tuesday, April 16, and will resume again mid-November. The Free Sunset Malecon Sculpture Tours that they began hosting last season on Thursdays at 6:00pm finish on April 11, and will also resume in mid-November. Both of these tours feature Galeria Pacifico´s owner, Gary Thompson, as the guide, and he is assisted by Memo Lira of Vallarta 101 Walking Tours. The sculpture tours are in support of our non-profit library and cultural center, Bibioteca Los Mangos, which receives no

government funding and gratefully accepts donations offered. The morning tours start at the north end of the Malecon by the rear of the Hotel Rosita, which provides seating next to the Millennium Sculpture. They are assisted by Lalo Valdez of Papeleria Valdez, which provides handouts on this sculpture. Its creator, who signs his work Mathis Lidice but is known as Professor Fernando Baños, explains the symbols of this monumental work. In between the sculptures along the Malecon, Kevin Simpson of Colectika Gallery talks about the Huichol Indian designs that are created using black stones embedded in the pavement of the Malecon. The tour lasts about an

hour and a half and ends at Galeria Pacifico, just up 80 feet from the Malecon at 174 Aldama Street.

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

Sin popote, por favor!

news

April 11 - 17, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com

Pretty park is pretty, not trashy By Emily Murray

pring is springing, April is here! As with every year around this time, we’re noticing a shift in local traffic as some of our snowbird friends begin heading home, and the typical vacationer (at least for the moment) looks more like a Spring Breaker. This week and last, we’re making a big push for several of the celebration benches to be completed. We’re so excited, we love them all! Last week was a flurry of sketching fun new designs, and some folks with a keen eye might have noticed a few different techniques being used. Depending on what design the bench sponsor created, we sometimes use a projector so we get the lines just right. Other times we can just freehand the design in permanent marker, but chalk still works like a charm for many things. Dany sketched a beautiful jungle scene on one of the benches, with gorgeous flowering birds of paradise framed by big, fat, lush

leaves. That bench really needed a chalk sketch because the deep jungle colors will be extremely important to the design. Speaking of verdant, healthy plant life and unspoiled nature, we want to talk about caring for our park together. We know the lack of garbage cans in the park is a bad situation. We’re working on making it better, but your participation in picking up after your own self is appreciated. If you can’t locate a garbage can, and just leave your trash where you were sitting, someone else has to go find a garbage can and take your trash to it. Oftentimes, it’s us. And we’re kind of busy working. Please take responsibility for the impact you make on our shared space. We are working on more trashcans in the park, but there are always receptacles located at the north and southwest corners of the park, along the Malecon walkway. Please use them, and thank you!

Vidanta launches new luxury cruise line Vidanta Cruises will operate a 298-passenger cruise ship in Mexican waters

exico’s largest hotel and resort conglomerate has announced the launch of a Mexican cruise line. With its new Vidanta Cruises, Nayarit-based Grupo Vidanta now has travel operations on both land and sea. The company told a ceremony in Mexico City this past week that it has invested 2.7 billion pesos (US $139 million) in the 153-meter Vidanta Elegant. The ship will carry up to 298

passengers in its 149 cabins and suites and offer a crew-passenger ratio of 1-1 instead of the usual 1-5 in order to ensure a private and exclusive experience for customers. The Vidanta Elegant has six public decks equipped with a wide range of gourmet restaurant options, 11 bars and lounges, a virtual reality area, a spa and gym, several Jacuzzis and an open-air swimming pool on the top deck. Grupo Vidanta vice-president Iván Chávez highlighted the launch as a historic moment for the national travel industry. “For the first time in history, Mexicans will be able to board a luxury cruise in their own country.

It’s outrageous that to take a luxury cruise we [currently] have to get on a plane and fly to another country, only to board a ship that much of the time takes us back to visit our own coastline.” He said Vidanta will apply its 45 years of experience in the luxury resort business to a sea-going vacation experience. The company plans to begin offering cruises in the fall. It will operate out of Vidanta’s resort in Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit, docking in the new Puerto Magico cruise ship terminal and give travelers the option for a cruise and resort vacation. Original: www.travelweekly.com

PVR sees increased flight traffic

he operators of the Puerto Valalrta International Airport, Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacifico, S.A.B. de C.V. (“GAP”) announced terminal passenger traffic figures forMarch 2019. In March 2019, total passengers increased by 5.7% at the

Company’s 13 airports, compared to the same period of the previous year. Domestic passenger traffic increased by 3.9%, while international passenger traffic increased by 7.8% compared to 2018 figures. In Puerto Vallarta we saw a 4%

increase in domestic travel from January – March 2019 with about 352,000 passengers. In the same time frame International travellers to PVR increased by 3.2% to 1,257,000. Original: www.aeropuertosgap. com.mx

news

April 11 - 17, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com

US expected to nominate new Mexico Ambassador

resident Trump is expected to nominate a Washington attorney, Christopher Landau, to be the next United States ambassador to Mexico, the White House said this week. Trump’s planned appointment comes at a time of tense relations between the U.S. and Mexico and nearly one year after the resignation of the previous U.S. ambassador, Roberta Jacobson, who was one of several highprofile State Department officials to step down during the Trump presidency. Landau, a 55-year-old graduate of Harvard Law School, is a constitutional and appellate attorney who has argued before the Supreme Court. Before entering private practice, he was a law clerk for conservative Supreme Court Justices Antonin Scalia and Clarence Thomas. He is currently

a partner at the law firm of Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan. If Landau’s nomination is approved, he will be responsible for managing the increasingly fraught relationship between two longtime allies, which has been strained since Trump’s election by the president’s frequent criticism of Mexico on matters of immigration, trade and security and his persistent push to build a border wall between the two countries. “The bilateral agenda is intensely complex at this point in time,” said Duncan Wood, director of the Mexico Institute at the Wilson Center, a Washington-based think tank. One of the most pressing issues is the U.S. Mexico Canada Agreement, a trade pact designed to replace the North American Free Trade Agreement. It has yet to be ratified by the three countries,

in part because of recent tariffs imposed by the U.S. on steel and aluminum imported from Mexico and Canada. Another complicated subject is immigration, with the U.S. pressuring Mexico to do more to stop Central Americans from heading north and Mexico calling on the U.S. to take a more humanitarian approach to immigration enforcement. Conflict over the political crisis in Venezuela may be on the horizon. While Trump has floated the idea of a military intervention into the South American country to oust President Nicolas Maduro, Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has repeatedly affirmed his respect for Venezuela’s sovereignty. “It’s very, very important that there is an ambassador right now,” said Wood. Landau does not have diplo-

matic experience, although he studied Latin America while an undergraduate at Harvard College. He was born in Spain and spent part of his childhood in Latin America, according to the White House, which noted that he is fluent in Spanish.

Blue Flag Beaches in Puerto Vallarta

Original: www.latimes.com

Here is a list of local Blue Flag beaches

id you know that the beach at Garza Blanca Preserve Resort and Spa in Puerto Vallarta has the international Blue Flag accreditation? This means that Garza Blanca’s beach is recognized as environmentally healthy per the strict standards of the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). The FEE is a nonprofit non-governmental organization that started in Europe but is now a worldwide organization. The Blue Flag is a trademark used by the FEE to indicate that beaches and marinas around the world are environmentally friendly, clean and safe. The Blue Flag program started in France in 1985 and today, has become a global program with 44 countries participating. In addition to issues of accessibility and safety, the most important part of a Blue flag accreditation is the month testing of the waters to maintain their status. Mexico has a total of 53 Blue Flag beaches. Ten of them are located in the Puerto Vallarta area. And one of two of the blue flag accredited marinas in Mexico is here in La Cruz de Huancaxtle. Water Quality is Paramount The Blue Flag program requires that beaches achieve ‘excellent bathing water quality’ and must reach the water quality standard set by the Blue Flag program, or the standard set by their own muni-

He is the son of George Landau, a career U.S. diplomat who shaped policy in Latin America throughout the 1970s and 1980s and who served as U.S. ambassador to Chile, Paraguay and Venezuela.

Jalisco 1.- Puerto Vallarta 2.- Amapas 3.- Camarones 4.- Conchas Chinas I 5.- Conchas Chinas II 6.- Garza Blanca 7.- Palmares 8.- Playa de Oro 9.- Sheraton

Nayarit Bahía de Banderas 1.- Nuevo Vallarta Norte cipality, whichever is higher. Water samples must be taken every 31 days from the areas of the beach with the highest concentration of swimmers, as well as at water inflow sites such as river mouths. The water samples must be drawn by an independent technician, and must be tested for chemicals and microbes by an independent laboratory with national or international accreditation. In addition to testing for microbes and chemicals, there must be no visible pollution in the water, such as oil film on the surface of the water, or plastic containers floating in the water. If the water is not clean, the beach can lose its Blue Flag for the season. Education is where change starts The Blue Flag program requi-

rements state that if specific sensitive natural areas (including Marine Protected Areas) exist near a Blue Flag beach, it is strongly recommended that some of the educational activities address these sensitive natural areas. Bathing water quality information must be displayed on the Blue Flag information board. The information must also clearly explain how the water quality results relate to the imperative criteria for water quality, with specific reference to sampling frequency and the conditions under which Blue Flag status can be withdrawn. Keeping it clean In order to be a member of the Blue Flag program, the local authority or beach operator should establish a beach management committee. The beach mana-

gement committee should ensure compliance with all environmental management criteria, including Coastal and Marine Protected Area requirements if appropriate, as well as all environmental laws and regulations in the jurisdiction. The beach must be clean. Part of environmental management is ensuring the sand itself as well as all surrounding areas are free from trash and debris. Waste disposal bins must be available at the beach in adequate numbers, and regularly maintained. Safe beaches for all At Blue Flag beaches, safety is one of the primary concerns. Lifeguards must be present and easily recognizable, must be trained in life saving procedures, and must have public rescue equipment and first aid kits. A beach must be accessible

Santa María del Oro 1.- Laguna Santa María del Oro Marinas Bahía de Banderas 1. Marina Rivera Nayarit, La Cruz de Huanacaxtle

to all (regardless of age, gender, political views, religion, or physical ability), and it is preferable that free access be granted to the public, in order to be eligible for Blue Flag accreditation. Blue Flag accreditation is a voluntary program with numerous strict requirements in several categories. Here is a short summary of some of the requirements. You can learn more at http://www.blueflag. global. Source: Garza Blanca

spring

April 11 - 17, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com

My Life In Vallarta

Spring Flowers

By Lois Ellison

Gary R. Beck

Lois Ellison and her photographer husband Bud have had an ongoing love affair with Mexico and Puerto Vallarta since the 1980’s. Lois enjoys sharing her experiences and impressions of the Mexican people and culture.

Gary R. Beck first visited Puerto Vallarta in February 1979. From San Francisco, CA via Toledo, OH. and East Lansing, MI., where he was educated in horticulture at Michigan State University and worked in flower hybridizing before his livelihood turned to the restaurant business in the San Francisco area, working as a food server and wine buyer for 20+ years. He is a freelance writer focusing mainly on our city, restaurants, shops, plays and concerts with his published articles. He is the author of the popular local restaurant guide, “Beck’s Best”.

garyrbeck1@yahoo.com

loell87@yahoo.com

Change of Seasons

here are many different ways to know when there is a change of seasons. The easiest one is the calendar. A couple weeks ago, we had the official start of spring, sometimes referred to as the vernal equinox. Here in Mexico, as in many Latin cultures, it is called La Primavera. What a wonderful melodic word. I looked up primavera to find out its origins. Now I’m not a Latin scholar by any means but from what I can tell, it comes from two words and basically means “first look”. That’s especially appropriate for those living in colder climates where the crocus is literally the first sign of better things to come, weather-wise. But you really don’t need a calendar to know it is spring. Slowly, as the days become longer the nights are shorter. As winter progressed here in Vallarta, the sunsets gradually moved from behind the southern tip of the Bay towards the horizon straight from shore. If you want to plan a sunset dinner, 6:30 no longer works and once we go on Daylight Savings Time, you may just want to watch the sunset with your after dinner coffee. Of course there are no crocuses here. What we have are glorious trees: primavera trees, with their profusion of yellow flowers, soon to be followed by lush green leaves, and the Amapas trees; exploding with pink blossoms. You might be lucky enough to see a jacarandas tree, but there aren’t as many as there once were. In other ways the change of seasons is more subtle here than in other places. As we transition towards the rainy season, this becomes the “dusty season”. Some years back, before the cobblestones were concreted in place, every car or bus that passed generated giant clouds of dust that left a blanket over every

plant, vehicle and building. It’s not so bad now but at certain times you may find yourself with an eyeful or mouthful of bits of grit. You’ll also notice that the trees on the mountains around us have lost that bright green hue. The tops of some have a dry brownish tinge, almost seeming to cry out for water. The Cuale river runs more slowly now, exposing the rocks along her banks and finally seeping into the Bay as a meandering trickle. As we walk on the Malecon in the morning, spring is marked by the disappearance of the snowbirds. It doesn’t happen overnight. One morning we notice that we haven’t seen Smiley for several days. Next it’s the woman with the sad eyes or the happy couple holding hands. They drift north just as they arrived in the fall; one or two at a time, never saying goodbye. The crowds dwindle down to a few and then it’s just you, the sweepers, the pigeons, a few dogs and the other year-round folks. Summer will bring a flock of national tourists but until then the mornings are quiet. If you are one of those leaving this paradise and heading north, spring may be a sad time. Back at home you’ll start counting the months until your next visit. The time will pass and you’ll return. Puerto Vallarta will be waiting for you. Until then, que les viaje bien.

pring brings fresh breezes, bright blue skies and rising temperatures. But one must not overlook what Nature has in store for our pleasure: There are four spectacular tree species that can be spotted all over as we welcome spring back to the Bahía de Banderas. Bauhinia Orchid Trees, Arbol de las Orquideas, have fragrant flowers of magenta and lavender with five overlapping petals and bloom from February to April. While the flowers resemble orchids, it is not a member of the orchid family but the pea family [Leguminosae]. In Mexico, it may be called Pata de Vaca [“cow’s foot” because the petals are shaped like a cow’s hoof.] It is also known as Butterfly Tree. Bauhinias can grow up to 8m and are deciduous, with around 200 varieties. Once the flowers have finished blooming, long seed pods are produced. Allow the pods to dry, thus ripening the seeds inside, germinate wrapped in damp paper towels, then plant in a tray with bottom holes for drainage or a small pot filled with good garden loam. Llamarada or Spathodea Impossible to miss are the huge bright orange clusters of flowers of the Llamarada, [also listed as Spathodea] known as Flame of the Forest, Pichkari, Nandi Flame or African Tulip Tree. Individual cup-shaped blossoms resemble tulips. Though not a spring bulb, a most impressive spring flowering tree. Native to the tropical dry forests of Africa, one can see why it thrives here. It grows up to 25m. The wood is soft and favored by hole-digging and -building birds. Tabebuia: Primavera Primaveras [Tabebuia cassinoides], also known as Ipe or Trumpet Tree, bloom after the

pink Amapa. The 3 to 11cm wide blossoms may remind one of petunias. Seed-containing pods grow quite long, split sending seeds into the wind. The trees grow up to 50m and are deciduous in the dry season. Bees and hummingbirds enjoy as honey trees for its nectar. TraditioPink Amapa

Orchid Tree

nally used by indigenous Amazons for making hunting bows, it is known also as “Pau d’arco” [bow stick]. Tabebuia: Amapa The Amapa tree [Tabebuia impetiginosa] blooms before the foliage [it is deciduous] with tubular soft pink blossoms also called Pink Ipe, Pink Lapacho, Lapacho Negro and Taheebo. The species has been used medicinally especially as a tea, growing all through Mexico down to northern Argentina with heights reaching 30m. The seeds are winged and dispersed by the wind like little butterflies. Not only stunning in springtime, both Amapa and Primavera provide excellent wood for fine furniture making, being termite resistant. Amapa wood is obscura [dark] while Primavera is madera blanca [light colored]. Enjoy these fleeting spring flowers as many prepare to head back to the cold North and a new cascade of spring blooms.

semana santa

April 11 - 17, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com

Celebrating Semana Understanding Palm Sunday Santa in Banderas Bay

emana Santa is just a few days away (April 14 – 28, 2019) and soon the beaches and streets will be more crowded. There are always many events planned for this week-long event and this year is no different. More than just a chance to escape to the beach with your family, Semana Santa is the most important religious week in Mexico. Each community celebrates the holiday with its own regional flavour, however, popular with the whole country is the breaking of cascarones, colored egg shells filled with confetti, over the heads of friends and family. Churches will be filled with those attending Mass on Good Friday and Easter Sunday, and families will take this opportunity to be together. Semana Santa (Holy Week April 14-20) is the week leading up to Easter. This is a very important holiday in Mexico. Most schools have two weeks vacation at this time, both Semana Santa and the following week, which is referred to as Semana de Pascua (April 21-28). There are abundant religious celebrations, but it’s also a time when Mexican families head to the beaches and tourist attractions. Travel During Holy Week: Since schools in Mexico have a two-week vacation period at this time, this is effectively spring break for Mexicans. This tends to be the hottest and driest time of year through most of the country, making the beach a magnet for those wanting to escape hot city streets. So if you’re planning to travel to Mexico during this time, be prepared for crowds on beaches and at tourist attractions, and make hotel and travel reservations well in advance. Religious Celebrations: The religious observances of Semana Santa do not take a back seat to beach fun, however. Processions and passion plays take place all through the country, though different areas celebrate in different ways and certain communities have more effusive celebrations. Among those places where Holy Week is celebrated en grande are Taxco, Pátzcuaro, Oaxaca and San Cristobal de las Casas. Jesus’ final days are evoked in the rituals that take place during the week. Palm Sunday - Domingo de Ramos On the Sunday prior to Easter, known as Palm Sunday, the

arrival of Jesus in Jerusalem is commemorated. According to the Bible Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey and the people in the streets laid down palm branches in his path. In many towns and villages in Mexico on this day there are processions reenacting Jesus’ triumphal entry, and woven palms are sold outside churches. Maundy Thursday - Jueves Santo The Thursday of Holy Week is known as Maundy Thursday or Holy Thursday. This day commemorates the washing of the feet of the apostles, the Last Supper and Jesus’ arrest in Gethsemane. Some Mexican traditions for Maundy Thursday include visiting seven churches to recall the vigil the apostles kept in the garden while Jesus prayed before his arrest, foot-washing ceremonies and of course Mass with Holy Communion. Good Friday - Viernes Santo Good Friday recalls the crucifixion of Christ. On this day there are solemn religious processions in which statues of Christ and the Virgin Mary are carried through town. Often the participants of these processions dress in costumes to evoke the time of Jesus. Passion plays, dramatic recreations of the crucifixion of Christ, are presented in many communities. The largest takes place in Iztapalapa, south of Mexico City, where over a million people gather every year for the Via Crucis. Holy Saturday - Sabado de Gloria In some places there is a custom of burning Judas in effigy because of his betrayal of Jesus, now this has become a festive occasion. Cardboard or paper mache figures are constructed, sometimes with firecrackers attached, and then burned. Often the Judas figures are made to look like Satan, but sometimes they are made to resemble political figures. Easter Sunday - Domingo de Pascua You won’t come across any mention of the Easter Bunny or chocolate eggs on Easter Sunday in Mexico. This is generally a day when people go to Mass and celebrate quietly with their families, though in some places there are festivities with fireworks, and jubilant processions with music and dancing.

n 2019 Palm Sunday or Domingo de Ramos is the final Sunday of Lent on April 14th, the beginning of Holy Week, and commemorates the triumphant arrival of Christ in Jerusalem, days before he was crucified. Palm Sunday is known as such because the faithful will often receive palm fronds, which they use to participate in the reenactment of Christ's arrival in Jerusalem. In the Gospels, Jesus entered Jerusalem riding a young donkey, and to the lavish praise of the townspeople who threw clothes, or possibly palms or small branches, in front of him as a sign of homage. This was a customary practice for people of great respect. Palm branches are widely recognized symbol of peace and victory, hence their preferred use on Palm Sunday. The use of a donkey instead of a horse is highly symbolic, it represents the humble arrival of someone in peace, as opposed to arriving on a steed in war. With nearly 83% of Mexican’s population being Catholic, it is not

surprising that Palm Sunday is an important affair. Around the Church square is packed with worshippers queuing to enter the church. They sing joyous songs of celebration and wave their palms and then enter the church to be blessed. Meanwhile, skilled crafts people sell palms in all shapes and sizes to the crowd. During Palm Sunday Mass, palms are distributed to parishioners who carry them in a ritual procession into church. The palms are blessed and many people will

fashion them into small crosses or other items of personal devotion. These may be returned to the church, or kept for the year. Because the palms are blessed, they may not be discarded as trash. Instead, they are appropriately gathered at the church and incinerated to create the ashes that will be used in the follow year's Ash Wednesday observance. The colors of the Mass on Palm Sunday are red and white, symbolizing the redemption in blood that Christ paid for the world.

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Christ Church by the Sea All are invited to worship with us during this Holy Week in the Anglican ~ Episcopalian Tradition PALM SUNDAY ~ APRIL 14 ~ 10 AM Jesus enters Jerusalem

MAUNDY THURSDAY ~ April 18 ~ 6 PM The Last Supper and night of Betrayal

GOOD FRIDAY ~ APRIL 19 ~ 10 AM The Crucifixion and Death of Jesus on Calvary

EASTER SUNDAY ~ APRIL 21 ~ 10 AM Celebration of the Resurrection

Plaza Genovesa ~ Center Courtyard Palapa Av. Francisco Medina Ascencio 2015 CHRISTCHURCHBYTHESEA.ORG MYPVCHURCH@GMAIL.COM

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Record number participating in this years Restaurant Week in May

he 15th edition of Restaurant Week has announced the participating restaurants in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit. A record 61 restaurants will take part up from last years 59 from May 15 – June 10, 2019. Restaurants will be offering a wide variety of cuisines, and is an excellent opportunity for guests to enjoy many of the very best restaurants at reduced prices. A popular dining event that continues to grow each year, participating restaurants will each offer three price-fixed three-course menus. Taxes and beverages are not included. The price categories for 2019 are: $289, $399 and $466 pesos. Founded in 2005 Restaurant Week was inspired by foodie festivals from other major tourist destinations. When it was established, Restaurant Week intended to boost a slower time in the season. Today, May is a very active month in

which many events take place, but Restaurant Week is still one of the most popular and was extended to almost four weeks to give more visitors and residents a chance to experience new restaurants. The record breaking participating restaurants this year include: Amadeo’s Bistro, Archie’s Wok, Azafrán, Barcelona Tapas, Barrio Bistro, Bistro Limón, Bistro Teresa, Organic Bistro (Hotel Cielo Rojo), Blanca Blue, Boccon di

Vino, Boquería Hidalgo, Café des Artistes, Coco Tropical, Daiquiri Dick’s, Di Vino Dante, Eclecticos, El Arrayán, El Dorado, El Patrón Viva Vallarta, Seagulls, Hacienda San Ángel Gourmet, Joe Jack’s Fish Shack, Kaiser Maximilian, La Cappella, La Cigale, La Leche, La Palapa, Layla’s Restaurant, Le Bistro Cafe, Le Kliff, Lobster Paradise, Lupita Mexican & Seafood, Mark’s Bar & Grill, Merida Grill, Mikado, Nicksan, No Way Jose!, Ocean Grill, Ookii Sushi, OPA Greek Bistro, Oso’s Fish Market Restaurant, Pal’Mar Sea Food & Grilled Garage, Pezlimon, Pizzeria La Dolce, Porto Bello, Icú Restaurant, River Café, Sapori di Sicilia, Seasons PV, Serrano’s Meat House, Si Señor Beach, Sonora House, Spice Market, The Blue Shrimp, The Iguana, Tintoque, Trio Mediterranean, Tuna Blanca, Umai, Venazu and Vitea. More details at restaurantweekpv.com

April 11 - 17, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com

The Private (Tax) Bill Collector Orlando Gotay, Tax Attorney tax@orlandogotay.com

Orlando Gotay is a California licensed tax attorney (with a Master of Laws in Taxation) admitted to practice before the IRS, the U.S. Tax Court and other taxing agencies. His love of things Mexican has led him to devote part of his practice to 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. It is informational only and not meant as legal advice.

Extension Mysteries

s we come down to the final stretch, it is important to review what must be done if you cannot file by the April 15 income tax due date. If you need extra time to file, you are not alone. Over 10 million extensions are granted each year, according to the IRS. An extension means different things to different people. If you reside outside the U.S. you are eligible for different treatment than your cousin in Tulsa. If as of the due date of the return you are a citizen or green card holder, and you live outside the U.S., you are eligible for an automatic two month extension to file *and* pay the tax due on the return. It’s a special deal for expats. It exempts from penalties for not filing and not paying by the due date. For 60 days, you would be exempt. Interest from April 15, however, is always due. The IRS describes this extension as “automatic”: I dread the word. It is automatically granted, but the IRS is not a mind reader. To get this extension, you let the IRS know -by a statement on the return itself when filing. There is no form. If you are unable

to file within the 2-month extension period, you may be able to get an additional 4-month extension of time to file your return, for a total of 6 months, by using the “regular” extension (Form 4868), filed by the new extended date. The tax must be paid at that time, or the failure to pay penalty begins. Remember, stateside people must file form 4868 to request their “automatic” extension. Their extension is filing only, they are expected to pay tax in full by the date due. Don’t forget to check state requirements for extensions. They will grant extensions on various terms. Some are truly automatic; some honor federal extensions (they may just mean the form 4868 extension). Call to make sure. The Foreign Bank Account Report (FBAR) has a deadline of April 15, 2019, but it has an actually “do nothing, relax, it’s really automatic” 6 month extension until October 2019. If you e-file, skip this: Time of filing is established by a post office postmark. If you use Fedex, UPS or DHL check for the proper physical address on the IRS.gov website. Only approved categories of service count as “day of mailing = day of filing”. The IRS website has the details. File on time!

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Paradise and Parenting

April 11 - 17, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com

Health and Wellness

Leza Warkentin

Cat Morgan cat@NewEnergyConsciousness.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.

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

mommyinmexico.wordpress.com

Teachable Moments

think most parents at least try to impart all the good values to their kids. Kindness, respect, honesty, these are all things that parents try to teach their offspring. But I do think that every one of us, no matter what we might say, have certain values that we emphasize more strongly than others. For example, I have worked hard to help my children understand the challenges faced by any type of minority in our world. I bring issues to their attention that would help them understand that our modern society still has a long way to go. If they are aware, then perhaps they will work towards solutions, or at least not contribute to the problems. So, naturally, I have been vocal in my beliefs in equality for women. I try to demonstrate the joy I take in my career choice, and how the home life/work life balance is achievable for both men and women. My husband and I consciously co-parent, make parenting decisions together, and discuss the process with our kids. But, unfortunately, I can also be a bit hypocritical at times, and now that I have teenagers, they can see right through that. Yes, I’m a strong, independent woman who works hard. I am also deeply, irrationally, and loudly afraid of all rodents. And I still expect Gilberto to deal with any situations that involve them. Also, I expect him to deal with the situation humanely (I just saw an article of a woman who photographs mice with tiny teddy bears. I can’t live with them, but you should have seen them cuddle those bears). Naturally, when I discovered there was a furry little creature who had taken up residence behind the oven (by turning on the oven and having it run up behind the dish rack), I began to vocally indicate that this wasn’t cool. Our two dogs joined in with their own frenzied declarations, thrilled with the idea of a good hunt. My children, wondering if one of my limbs was

RivieraNayaritFun.com

being severed with a pair of rusty scissors, descended the stairs to find out. I wasn’t able to form real words, but I could continue to shriek at dog whistle pitch and point at the fridge, where the rat (THE RAT) had run to escape the cacophony of feminine hysteria and joyful canine barking. Once my children had ascertained that there were no rusty scissors, I had all my limbs, and we had been invaded by an animal that could fit under the fridge, they began to rub their foreheads and sigh a bit (sometimes they just look exactly like their dad). And I knew (although I was unable to change course because A RAT was UNDER MY FRIDGE) that I had done it again. I was watering down my life’s message by behaving like I needed to loosen my corset and get my fancy paper fan for the vapors I was having. My son said, “yeah, I’m out, I’m in an online match. Call dad, he’ll take care of it when he gets home.” But guess what. My daughter took me by my elbow and sat me on the couch, head between my knees (this is a true story). She barricaded the kitchen and calmed the dogs down. She started moving the furniture around to try to flush out the rat (THE RAT) and maybe catch it with a box trap. I watched her for a few minutes, understanding that a) she is the absolute bomb and b) I could now sit up without feeling like I was going to faint. Incredibly, I stood up and helped her move the oven, if only to begin the load road of dignity recovery. Gilberto finally came home and is now huddled with our daughter in the kitchen, coming up with an appropriate intervention. I’ve heard “mom” and “really not ok” being bandied about in Spanish, so I think they are going to find a way to send our extra visitor his walking papers tonight. My son and I are helping the best way we can – by staying out of the way. And I’m feeling pretty good about the forecast for feminism in our household right now.

Coffee and Your Nervous System

Mate. This is a common Central American tea that is popular in the U.S. It is packed with antioxidants boosting your immune system, boosts your memory, and gets your digestive system set up for the day. The Nettle and Oatstraw strengthen your blood and calm your body while nourishing and repairing your nervous system, with an all day boost.

here’s a habit that keeps many of us trapped in our modern world. It’s a big money maker and so programmed in our culture that many of us don’t give it a second thought every day. The reality is that a lot of folks can’t do without their morning cup Teeccino of joe; that perk of caffeine for the Teeccino tastes like coffee. It’s “pick-me-up” that gets one going. Most people don’t realize coffee loaded with a prebiotic known as is a potent herb. You may not Inulin. A component of chicory root, realize that coffee is a medicinal this fiber supports a good popuplant that belongs to the family of lation of gut flora. Inulin passes herbs known as ‘nervines’. Coffee through your large intestine and is listed as a nervine because it is eaten by your “good” bacteria interacts with your nervous system. (like bifidus and lactobacillus). This can either help, or hurt you depending on what kind of coffee, Afternoons with Lemon Balm (like unfiltered and boiled) you + Green Tea (Matcha) drink and how much you consume. Drinking Green Tea has There are benefits and risks to numerous beneficial properties. drinking coffee. Coffee can even Did you know that the National be used as a colonic to aid health. Cancer Institute published inforHowever, when it comes to your mation that Green Tea actually central nervous system, most prevents tumor growth? It’s also herbalists agree and view coffee as a powerful remedy for your heart; a strong nervine medicine that can balancing cholesterol levels and be beneficial when used sparingly promoting better circulation. It can - meaning once a week or less. I also aid in weight loss! One of the know that some of you reading BEST things about this green tea this right now are literally cringing! blend is that it boosts your memory WHAT?? Live without coffee? HOW and protects against neurodegewill I ever be able to get through nerative disease. The Lemon Balm the morning or the day? Leading is a fabulous accompaniment to herbalists believe coffee throws our Green Tea with the lovely lemon mental and emotional balance out of bouquet, and also is an effective whack, causing a number of related health problems from overuse. Ready for Some Good News? There are a number of other caffeinated nervines that can be brewed together with calming herbs that gives you a boost of energy, but also nourishing and won’t cause stress, anxiety or jitters. New Recipes Here are recipes that do contain some caffeine, however, the herbs that are also good for your nervous system and mind. It’s a win-win! Yerba Mate + Oatstraw + Nettle In the morning try a cup of Yerba

remedy for stress and anxiety, yet boosts your concentration. The Perfect Evening Tea: Adaptogen Night Time Brew Adaptogens are herbs that work with your hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal systems to normalize your body’s stress response. If you have read any of my previous articles on the Neural Pathways about the Stress/Flight or Flight hormones, this is what this is referring to. Herbs like Alma, Ashwagandha, Holy Basil, Rhodiloa and many others help your body-mind differentiate between a hard day’s work, and a mountain lion chasing you. Our bodies have become addicted to stress and survival. Continuous stress sends hormones/ neurotransmitters of cortisol and adrenaline, and norepinephrine (used as a drug to raise blood pressure) to our bodies, creating addictions. Our minds and bodies create patterns where survival mode feels normal. Our bodies respond as a flight or flight condition, continually releasing the hormones, which turn on the aspects of our genes that create disease. We are only meant to be in high stress for less than 15 minutes, the return to homeostasis. These patterns are so well engraved, taking an adaptogen every night will assist in turn off your thinking brain so one can begin the process of healing; coming back into homeostasis and balance. A night-time adaptogen you can try is Tulsi (aka Holy Basil.) It promotes proper flow of oxygen and chi (energy). Also a pain killer and immune-modulator (works to balance out your immune function). Try it with Holy Basil and delicious lavender or chamomile. Your body will feel refreshed when you wake up the next day. Why not give these a try? Find better balance. Change your hormones and turn on genes that create health and wellness! INJOY!

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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

Apapacho!

papacho! It sounds like one should say ‘bless you!’ after hearing that word, right? This word has a Náhuatl origin but in Spanish translates basically to “hug or caress with the soul”. This

is also the name of a very inspiring program at Biblioteca Los Mangos. Developed, implemented and run by Adriana Garcia, Los Mangos director and Candace Kaye early childhood development specialist, they say that “the program was created to support the deve-

lopment of early literacy skills for young children with their parents. Apapacho is not a program that teaches reading. Rather, Apapacho is a series of research based child development principles and human values put into action. During the six meeting times that comprise each session, the experience path of the program goes from the brain to the hearts as a natural journey. We understand that we are hugging with the soul in Apapacho while we build the young child’s capacity to 1) experience, express, and regulate emotions; 2) form close secure interpersonal relationships; and 3) explore the environment and learn within the context of family and cultural expectations.” This program is not just ‘story time for kids’. Oh, it is so much more! They tell me: “The Apapacho

April 11 - 17, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com

team designs, proposes and conducts activities that impact in a very positive way the family dynamics of building relationships, the young child’s sense of achievement and the confidence of the parents in their task as life trainers in the community, culture, society that is ours. The interactive nature of the relationship between a child and his caregivers is essential to the developing brain as it forms the complex web of visual, language, motor, and social-emotional connections necessary for later literacy learning. These positive relationships lead to trust, which then gives a child the resilience to face new challenges, actively explore, and focus on the task of learning.” The pending issue of these programs, specifically Apapacho, is to reach out to the most disadvantaged families in our community, to those who do not reach the library due to economic reasons or because they do not have anyone to support themselves for the care of other children in the family. A free program, Apapacho is funded by private donations that does not offer miraculous results, but rather builds a foundation to make a difference in the early childhood years, so the child learns through natural play to support development and most importantly, builds a powerful bond of a positive life-long attachment between parents and children.

Apapacho has been a watershed in the literacy programs at Los Mangos Library for several reasons, the most important because, based on the results of parent’s interviews, they decided that all reading promotion activities should involve in some way - the family. For example, Story Time directed to boys and girls from 6 months of age and up to 12 years old - has become the weekly family reading space. I could write pages on Biblioteca Los Mangos. If you have never been, then put this on your to-do list! Young and old alike can and should visit (and support) our local library which was built and is run purely on donations. Located on Francisco Villa, close to Costco it is a plethora of activity, for everyone, all ages and languages. They have meeting rooms available, classes of all types and so much more. Who does not remember as a child, spending time at their local library? I certainly do. It was my haven. My escape. And in this time of electronics, emails and fancy equipment, don’t we all need a little slice of peacefulness from time to time? How can you help? Just send me an email! Bravo and hats off to Adriana and Candace for this program and all of the programs at Los Mangos. Two quiet and unsung heroes in our community. Here’s to an inspirational week!

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

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From Here Marcia Blondin

marciavallarta@gmail.com

Long-time columnist Marcia Blondin resurrects this preview/review column each season devoted to local entertainment that she has had the pleasure of seeing lately or in seasons past.

Three Tenors

eems I have so little to do this week with the Palm Cabaret’s last day this season on Thursday, April 11th and my postponement of Chicago at Act II Entertainment until Saturday the 13th, I have put “Comings and Goings” back to bed until the fall. So, if you want to find out what and who I recommend this week, you will have to read through everything! It has been an extraordinarily emotional week. We said goodbye to Francine Peters with ‘celebrations’ all around Old Town – her ‘hood – with great food, music, tight gatherings of people, bright colors, laughter and at the end of it all, the underlying emptiness of it all is still there: Francine is gone, and nothing we did while she was alive was enough to keep her among us. That’s a terrible sadness that will have to gradually ease up on its own sweet time. Rest in peace, please, Frannie. Between the announcement of Francine’s passing and her Celebrations, a medium born in Viet Nam namedKennedy Morgan took the stage at the Palm Cabaret in a show produced by Mark McCoy, Cassandra Shaw’shusband. I know many of the people there were hoping Kennedy would/could get in touch with Francine’s spirit but, if I understood him correctly, souls

need time to adjust to their new surroundings, so perhaps it was just too soon. Kennedy did manage to link up with a half dozen departed souls related to people in the audience; it was a fascinating hour or two. So intriguing, I totally lost track of time. Kennedy Morgan will be part of next season’s lineup at the Palm. To say it will be ‘something completely different’ would be putting it mildly. I plan to sit down with Kennedy soon for a chat. In the meanwhile, you can contact him on Facebook for private readings. This coming Friday, at Incanto at 7:30 in the Piano Bar, watch and listen to Patsy Meyer with the fantastic Mark Hartman on piano. At eight, I will go downstairs for Spencer Day’s concert with Zoe and Leon with Alex Gonzalez on percussion. A full report next week. On to the Three Tenors. The first, Rodolfo, Vallarta’s beloved blind singer who has roved our Malecon for years carrying his heavy battery-powered speaker and microphone. We have enjoyed his twice-weekly performances atCoco Tropical since January. Now it’s time for his voice to rest up a bit and he can devote more time to his serious study of the piano. If you want Rodolfo to entertain for an end-of-season/birthday/anniversary party, do get in touch with me. Tenor Number Two – young Pata Salada Alejandro Peña. A twen-

SPCA of Puerto Vallarta By Janice Gonzalez

ast week’s Olas Altas Farmers Market was pretty slow but we want to send out a big hug and thanks to Sharon Trigg. She managed all by herself due to some scheduling conflicts with our volunteers. We really appreciated it! Now we are bracing for the upcoming Semana Santa crowds. Please be sure to stop by and say hello before the

season ends. Last market day is Saturday, April 27. Wendy and I will be there wishing everyone a wonderful summer. While there be sure and check out the merchandise we have available for a nominal donation. Thanks so much in advance for your purchases and donations. It is a win-win for everyone! When you make a purchase you are making a donation to our organization to ensure our continued

ty-nine-year-old with a lifetime of glorious songs to choose from to delight his future audiences. Julie Guerrero has Alejandro enter taining her customers in her resto Ńo Way Jose´ and brought him to Jim and David´s house party a couple of weeks ago, where he sang Ńessum Dorma´ at my request a cappella. Alejandro´s debut performance took place at Incanto April 2nd. The sold-out audience listened to Mexican folk songs, German lieder, English love songs and more. Mark Hartman was sensitive as always, listening carefully to the singers he accompanies brilliantly on piano. At the end of his show, Alejandro invited Enrique de Allende to join him on stage for the last song. My heart sank for a second because there had been no operatic arias. To my instant joy, of COURSE, they sang Ńessum Dorma´ from Turandot!!! O M G ! it was tremendously powerful! An instantaneous standing ovation. Amazing. So, Enrique de Allende is Tenor Number Three.

April 11 - 17, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com

Ruggedly handsome, ex-pro-soccer player, now singer (thank all the gods for that) sold out his second show, flies to Mexico City for a couple of concerts then returns to Vallarta. New show scheduled for Alejandro Peña, at Incanto, Good Friday at 8 pm. Next concert for Enrique de Allende, Monday,

April 22nd, also at Incanto, 8 pm. They will each appear at the other´s show, AND both of these newly-scheduled concerts will be different productions. So, if you´ve seen them before – just do it again! Hug each other long and hard always, every day, From Here.

ADORABLE DOG IN THE SPOTLIGHT... DANCER & SAMMY by Janice Gonzalez ancer is a Lab mix weighing almost 40 pounds and is between 1.5 and 2 years old. Sammy is a Border Terrier mix also between 1.5 and 2 years of age and weighing 11 pounds. These two dogs are bonded at the hip and we do not want to separate them. Where one goes you find the other. Life has not been kind to either one of them and to have a home together would be their version of paradise Dancer had a rough early start in life as evidenced by her scars. She is a survivor of distemper and

has been left with a slight tic in her back leg. But for all her early suffering, she has blossomed into a wonderfully sweet, joyful and loving companion animal. She has a medium high energy level and is very playful. Sammy has a medium high energy level and loves his playtime with all his canine pals but mostly he loves Dancer. They are both okay around cats and they both love their people too. They have been sterilized, dewormed and vaccinated and are now ready for their forever home and. If you would like to take this

pair into you home contact us at spcapv@gmail.com for an application to adopt.

success rescuing the abused and abandoned dogs here in Vallarta. If you are interested in visiting any of our rescues at our state of the art sanctuary outside of town, contact us at spcapv@gmail.com to schedule a tour. Tours leave from the Costco parking lot on Thursdays during low season and reservations are required. 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, harnesses 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 soft or inflatable donut ones). Our rescues are now fed a total raw diet so please refrain from bringing any dog food or treats. The mission of SPCA de PV is to help fund and promote sterilization, adoption and healthcare

efforts for companion animals in the Puerto Vallarta area, with the goal of eliminating the euthanasia of healthy and adoptable animals. 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/. Get involved…rescue, adopt, foster, volunteer, donate or educate. You can learn more about the SPCA Puerto Vallarta by checking us out at www.spcapv. com/home or on Facebook.

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April 11 - 17, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com

Welcome Home Featured Property Popular development on the beach LOS TULES 20-301 2 bed / 2 bath, 1,936 sq.ft. $279,000 USD

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.

Sparkling glass makes home look new

I W

alking down the red-brick paths of Los Tules transports you to a time past, direct to your double entrance PH, just 20 meters from the sandy beach. On-site amenities include eight pools, five tennis courts, minimart, acres of landscape grounds, a restaurant-bar and 1 km of beach, making this one of the most sought after oceanfront developments in the bay. This corner unit has an expansive covered terrace, perfect

for dining and relaxing in addition to two balconies. The unit overlooks a pool and has partial ocean views. The home is sold turn-key, and is a perfect private residence or investment property. Please note the easy 36 steps to this lovely condo. Contact information: BOARDWALK REALTY OF: 322 224 0014/ 322 223 0001 john@boardwalkrealtypv.com b o a r d w a l k r e a l t y p v. c o m / properties/los-tules-20/

don't know about you, but I love sparkling crystal-clear glass. Unfortunately, after ten years in our condo, I noticed that the glass shower doors were starting to show their age. Even though we used a squeegee to wipe off excess water after every shower, used various cleaning solutions and cleaned our shower doors weekly, time still took its toll. I did some online research and tried some of the recommended approaches. We tried using a variety of different solutions made from regular household cleaners as well as several commercial-grade cleaners. Although they did help somewhat, we were unable to find any solution that would bring the glass back to that new, sparkling look we so wanted. Last week, I decided to try out a new service available in Puerto Vallarta that offers to restore glass back to almost new condition. This company advertises that it uses a nanotech material that will clean the glass and keep it looking new longer. Anything that saves detergent and maintenance sounds good to me. Before I reveal the results, it is important to know what causes our glass to become cloudy. Two main culprits keep your glass looking crystal-clear â&#x20AC;&#x201C; hard water and soap scum. According to Alex RodrĂguez who owns the glass cleaning company, the hard water in our area contains calcium and magnesium, among other minerals that make it prone to causing build up. When we finish showering, any water that is left on the glass eventually evaporates leaving behind the calcium and magnesium. These hard water spots are hard to remove even with vinegar and water and good old-fashioned elbow grease. In addition to mineral build-up,

soap scum also causes glass to become cloudy over time. Especially if you use a bar of soap instead of liquid soap, the calcium and magnesium ions in our water can combine to add another layer of cloudiness to the glass. Having exhausted the options of do-it-yourself, I contacted Alex. He and his employees showed up as promised. First, they did an inspection of the glass. Alex pointed out some minor scratches

on the outside of the glass. These were likely caused accidentally with a ring during cleaning. He also took pictures of the glass so that we could later compare the results. First, Alex and his team wiped down the glass to ensure it was clean. By hand, they applied a paste to the glass, wiping in a circular motion. As they continued, they carefully inspected to ensure the mineral stains, and soap scum stains were coming off. After rinsing with water, they buffed the glass with a handheld machine. When finished, I was amazed at how the glass shower doors looked brand new. Even the scratches were gone. I didn't hesitate in asking them to clean our remaining shower doors and the glass railing on our balcony which had some mineral build-up. Although there is a little dust that settles after that you may have to clean up, I was very impressed with the results. Want more info? Contact me at sa.novak@solutionsmexico.com.

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Live Music!

...and always, always our smoked ribs!

Felipe Angeles 245 • Paso Ancho, PV • 322.222.2510

STATE OF JALISCO

BUENAS ARIES

Tue. 4:00 • The Jokers Wed. 4:00 • The Zippers Thu. 4:00 • La Trez Cuartoz Fri. 4:00 • Bob & Gilberto Sat. 4:20 • Brimstone Sun. 3:00 • Cheko Ruiz Band

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Rent our 2nd floor terrace for special events (14 - 40 guests) Promotions

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Enjoy spaghetti in tomato sauce only $99 pesos or a Margarita pizza for only $ 99 pesos

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Open Monday to Saturday from 5-11pm Now with air conditioning

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FRANCISCO VILLA 1319 322-225-2202 FLUVIAL VALLARTA (FTE. A KUBLIS) BAHÍA DE BANDERAS PLAZA LAS PALMAS LOCAL 58 329-688-2536 SAN VICENTE-NAY. (JUNTO A CINEPOLIS) OPTICAOCIVALLARTA

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April 11 - 17, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com

Nuevo Vallarta successfully hosts the first ever Surfing with Nixon surf day for children with disabilities in Mexico

urfing with Nixon is the leading charity in the US to promote surfing as a form of therapy for children on the autism spectrum. Since 2014, the charity, founded and lovingly run by the couple Daniel and Shari Romney, has hosted free surf days for hundreds of children on the autism spectrum. Each year their surf events get bigger and bigger, as more parents realize the benefits that surf therapy can bring to their kids. The couple know all about having a child with disability and the challenges it can pose for a family. Nixon is their son. He is 11 years old, is on the autism spectrum and also has other special needs. He was born deaf, is non-verbal and only recovered his sight at age 3. He has Cerebral Palsy. That is a lot to contend with for any parent. However, both Daniel and Shari were determined to identify the things that Nixon loved doing, and surfing just happened to be top of that list! Fast forward to 14th March 2019, and Daniel, Shari and their young family (Nixon is one of four siblings) are on the beach in Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico, to run the first ever Surfing with Nixon day outside the US. Riviera Nayarit is world-renowned for its surfing spots and so was the natural choice. Twenty five kids and thirty professional surfers were all set to hit the water and ride those waves. Daniel had contacted Pasitos de Luz, a local and much-loved daycare and therapy centre for kids with disabilities, to see whether they would like to take part. ‘Of course!’ was the answer. Pasitos supports children with disabilities from low-income Mexican families, offering completely free therapy and daycare to children with autism spectrum conditions, Down Syndrome, learning disabilities, Cerebral Palsy, among many others special needs. They do all this with no government or local authority funding. Before Surfing with Nixon, some of these kids had never been on the beach or experienced the sea, and so this was a first-time experience for them. They absolutely loved it! For three hours, top surfers from surf schools including Sayulita Surf Co., Sayulita Surf School,

Okala Vallarta Surf School, Tron and Bucerías Surf & SUP, patiently supported kids as young as three to lie on their board, face forward and ride the waves. Some of the older children, including 17 year old Kapila who has Asperger

Syndrome, managed to stand up and ride all the way to the beach. All the children and surfers had huge smiles on their faces. So what next for Surfing with Nixon in Riviera Nayarit? Daniel and Shari’s dream is for

this to become an annual event, involving more local charities, benefiting more children and raising more awareness in Mexico about surfing as a great therapy for people with disabilities. They would also like to bring

on board (excuse the pun!) some major sponsors, such as Quiksilver, Roxy and Hurley, to make this dream become a reality. So keep an eye on the beaches of Nuevo Vallarta for the next Surfing with Nixon event!

Anglican Church Puerto Vallarta Formerly Christ Church by the Sea

Sunday 10:00 a.m. English-Traditional Holy Communion All faiths welcome-Casual dress Celebrating our 19th year in Puerto Vallarta Across from airport, northbound service road next to Sixt and Thrifty Car Rental Blvd Fco. Medina 7936, Puerto Vallarta

Father Jack Wehrs/Lay-minister Fer Sandoval e mail: jackandshirley1@att.net Text 1 619 300 7377 Tel 044 322 229 1129

www.anglicanchurchpuertovallarta.org Complimentary parking at Sixt Rental Car

local Movement as Medicine

By Via Anderson

yogawithvia@gmail.com

Via Anderson, E-RYT 500, is a yoga and movement coach and teaches a weekly Intelligent Movement Forever class on Thursday at 1 pm at Yoga Vallarta. She also teaches online and in private sessions at her studio. This 76-year-old grandmother practices what she preaches and teaches. She is the author of “How to Move Out of Pain: A Compendium of Intelligent Movement,” to be released in 2019.

Head Carrying Can Heal Your Spine

o you think carrying objects on your head is only good for people living in other countries? Or for the vendors on our beaches? You may want to reconsider and borrow this practice for yourself. Adding head carrying to your movement practice is healthy and therapeutic. It will strengthen and restore your neck muscles. These are the muscles that you have used, abused, and overworked with Forward Head Posture. It will reduce chronic neck tension. Head carrying slows down spinal degeneration. In our culture,

spinal degeneration begins around age 20. In indigenous cultures where head-carrying is common, spinal degeneration begins around age 50. The muscles of your spine, activate very differently when you have a weight on your head. Your spine reacts vertically to support the load. Your head pushes up into the load. As a result, the spine lengthens, extends, and re-aligns itself. You get taller! The more slouched you are, the more height you will gain! Your Mother was right when she told you could improve your posture by walking around with a book on your head. Optimal head/neck alignment is guaranteed when you

FARMERS MARKET: Saturday: Olas Altas at the park Lázaro Cárdenas de 9:00am a 2:00pm. Sunday: La Cruz de Huanacaxtle in the Marina de 9:00am a 2:00pm. Monday: Guayabitos Nayarit de 9:00am a 2:00pm. Tuesday: Nvo Vallarta in the Paradise Village de 9:00am a 2:00pm. Jueves: Marina Vallarta de 5:00pm a 10:00pm

carry weight on your head. Ester Gokhale, posture expert, lists these benefits of carrying a weight on your head: • Helps you find your vertical axis; stimulates alignment of bones and joints. • Strengths longus colli muscles deep in the neck; helps to prevent spinal compression. • Relaxes superficial neck muscles which we tend to overuse. Including your levator scapulae, scalene, sternocleidomastoid, splenius and trapezius muscles. • Evokes a feeling of groundedness similar to meditation. A 1979 study asked subjects how they felt after they carried a 15 kg (33 lb) object on their head, compared to in their hand. The findings were dramatic: • after hand carrying: arm and muscles fatigue, felt shorter, short of breath. • after head carrying: sensation of lightness, felt taller, felt respiratory freedom If you are ready to try it, I suggest that you buy a small, round, 1 kilo (2.5 lbs.) weight plate in the sporting goods section at Soriano or Walmart or on Amazon Mexico. A book will work too, but it is harder to find a book that is the right size and the right weight. Start by stacking your head over your ribcage before you put the

Fb TYBikinisYmas ty-bikinis-mas@hotmail.com (322) 137-0477 Made to size!!

Photo credit: Lori Voga

April 11 - 17, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com

weight plate on your head. Keep the weight plate in place for 3, 6, or 9 minutes. Start small. Walk from one room to another. Another option is to place a yoga block on your head. Hold on to the block. Push up into your hands and the block. Repeat often during your day. Repetition will create new neural pathways in your body for the changes that will result. Summing Up: Head carrying improves your posture and reduces your neck

tension. It helps to prevent spinal compression and improves respiration. You may want to add it to your movement practice. Reference: Perrin, Roger. Reeducation vertebrale, Principes Techniques. Librarie Le Francois. Paris. Medical disclaimer: This information presented here is for educational purposes only. It does not substitute for the professional judgment of a medical professional.

local

A Table

in the Corner

Bronwen White

walesbw@gmail.com

Bronwen White, originally from London, England, has moved here from the United States where she lived in many of its great cities. Having always loved Mexico, she has now moved to Puerto Vallarta and is embarking on her journey of discovering the delights of the local culinary scene.

TRIO:Traditional European Food Wine and Service

trio consists of three components, in this case a winning combination of Food, Wine and Service. Owners and chefs Bernard Guth and Ulf Henriksson opened up over 20 years ago. They also own nearby Vitea, although Trio is more Bernard’s baby. It has a lovely Mediterranean ambiance and covers three floors. I am partial to the second story with its stone bar and little balcony overlooking Calle Guerrero. Bernard is responsible for the extensive wine cellar, boasting over 2,000 bottles – ask for their veteran sommelier who will steer you in the right direction while you prepare to enjoy some of the very best food in town. First a basket of wondrous breads appears and it takes every inch of my somewhat weak will power not to take a nosedive into it. But nosedive I will if I order their terrine of rich foie gras. Appetizers veer toward the piscine, grilled oysters, Spanish mackerel ceviche, tropical shrimp salad, calamari. The Carpaccio is delectable, served in the classic manner with aged balsamic vinegar and shaved Parmesan and a popular favorite is the Lebanese

salad with beets, parsley and marinated goat cheese. The soups here are particularly fine, I love to the artichoke one, and I’m not really very keen on artichokes! Choose from a four-course prix fixe menu or regular seasonal offerings. The rack of lamb comes in two sizes depending on your appetite. It’s pink and succulent, served with ravioli, eggplant and peppers and zucchini mint sauce.

Entrees are matched with perfect herbal accompaniments, chicken with rosemary, rabbit with garlic parsley, duckling with lavender and fennel confit. Trio shines at its Italianate dishes, ricotta spinach ravioli, papadelle with shrimp, risotto with shrimp and asparagus, whole grain fettuccini and sides are often gnocchi, dumpling and the aforementioned ravioli. The pan-roasted sea bass is a crowd pleaser prepared with sauerkraut, a staple from France’s Alsace region. I like the Spanish style shrimp, sautéed with peppers, onions and brandy with white beans. I digress but I do wish Mexico had more dishes starring the lowly bean France has her cassoulet, Spain its fabada, Cuba its black beans, New Orleans its red beans, Costa Rica its gallo pinto, Texas its chile con carne (granted that one started off in Mexico). Here it is too often an afterthought, a sad little smear of refried beans alongside a dollop of rice. Mexico, please elevate the bean to its rightful place in the food pantheon! For dessert, cake isn’t usually my go to but do order the black forest. Bernard hails from that beautiful German region and makes a definitive one. Recently I asked Bernard’s opinion about a very trendy restaurant in Mexico City to which he gave the canny comment “they try too hard”. Trio does not try too hard, the food has an easy assurance, their tried and true dishes given a deft spin which insures that their patrons become repeat customers. Like me. Trio: Calle Guerrero #264, Colonia Centro

April 11 - 17, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com

River Café Benefit for Daughter of Local Musicians Christie Seeley

vezelay@mac.com

From Oakland, California to Puerto Vallarta…lured by music of guitars and sounds of the sea. vallartasounds.com

n 2010 when I starting coming regularly to Puerto Vallarta, my nightly stop for dinner and music was La Palapa Restaurant on the beach just south of the pier in the Zona Romantica. There I met Raul Simental and spent many evenings listening to his music and enjoying getting to know him. Raul is a troubadour par excellence! His idol, the renowned Oscar Chavez, certainly influences his style. Raul entertained us nightly with traditional Latin American as well as international pieces, always a bit on the poetic side, which I adored. Time passes and things change and now Raul is a regular performer at River Cafe, a beautiful restaurant/bar on the scenic Cuale River. He just recently celebrated his two-year anniversary playing there. Raul, a single father, has always been dedicated to his daughters and saw to it that they had a wonderful home life and excellent education. Recently, his oldest daughter, a young doctor fulfilling her dream of combining her work with travel on a cruise ship, was diagnosed with cancer. This is, of course, devastating to the family

and her treatment requires not only stamina but great expense. Raul’s musician friends and River Cafe have organized a benefit to be held on Friday, April 12 to raise money for her care. The event will not only be a great help to the family but also a fun and lively evening filled with hope, food and libations. The line up for the evening is impressive and composed of faithful friends who have performed over the years with Raul and hold him and his family in great esteem. River Cafe will provide a wonderful meal and drinks. I hope we as a community will step up and support Raul and his family at this important time in their lives. This is an opportunity to show our appreciation to the local people who share their lives with us. Reservations can be made at River Cafe 223-0788 or on their website: www.rivercafe.com.mx. Even if you cannot attend the event, donations will certainly be appreciated. They can be dropped off at River Cafe. See my website vallartasounds. com for more details.

April 11 - 17, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com

Creative hands of Mexico Leigh Thelmadatter

osomadre@hotmail.com Tlanchana figures: Mexicano 101

Leigh Thelmadatter is a professor at Tec de Monterrey, Mexico City, Wikipedian, and semi-professional researcher on Mexican handcrafts and folk arts. She has a blog called Creative Hands of Mexico and has just published a book on Mexican paper maché called Mexican Cartoneria. creativehandsofmexicodotorg.wordpress.com

Mountain mermaids

t is a strange sight, mermaid figures defining formerly small mountain town just west of Mexico City over 500 km from the nearest coast. They are locally called Tlanchanas, a name that comes from Nahuatl meaning “mother spirit from the water.” Their origins are not the seas, but rather the shallow lakes that used to dominate this area in the Valley of Toluca marked by the giant, often snow-covered Nevado de Toluca volcano. The myth is from the Mazatlincan people and predates even the Aztec conquest of this region. The myth states that the waters of the valley were ruled by a creature that was half

woman and half serpent. It was said that at times she could be glimpsed among the reeds and other aquatic vegetation, nude on an island. If she took a liking to a human, she could change

Two Expats in Mexico Paul Kurtzweil www.qroo.us

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

Retiring in Mexico: Financial Requirements for Residency

f you plan on making Mexico your retirement home, I strongly recommend that you apply for either temporary or permanent residency. It will make your life a lot easier and give you access to

more services. In order to qualify for either temporary or permanent residency, you’ll have to prove that you have the financial means to support yourself. The specific financial requirements will vary depending on which residency you’re applying for and if you have any special circumstances (e.g. family ties in Mexico). For the purpose of this post, I’m going to keep it simple and assume that you’re the average retiree from

her serpent lower half to legs to peruse him. If he refused her advances, she would drag him down to the depths of the water. When the Spanish conquered the Valley of Toluca, they worked to eradicate all pre-Hispanic beliefs from the native peoples. But the Tlanchana persisted. So the Spanish changed tactics as well as the Tlanchana’s form to that of a European mermaid. Metepec has a centuries-old tradition of pottery, making both utilitarian and decorative works

since long before the conquest. One way to promote the new mermaid figure was to create them in clay. Over time, the disappearance of most of the lakes and wetlands, as well as the growth of the pottery industry, converted the Tlanchana into a symbol of this economic activity as well as local history. Today, Metepec is no longer a small rural community but rather a suburb of the city of Toluca and even a bedroom community for western Mexico City. But in some

parts of the municipality and surrounding towns, the tradition of pottery making not only still exists but has made the town a “Pueblo Mágico” part of the federal government’s efforts to promote tourism. It is best known for its Trees of Life, but clay mermaid figures are very common, along with plaque depicting the sun and moon. It is definitely worth a day trip from Mexico City to the historic center, both to see the mermaids and to bring home a piece of history.

the U.S. or Canada who wants to retire in Mexico. Temporary Resident Card You have a few options with this one. You only have to meet one of the following: Foreign Source Income (e.g. Pensions and/or Employment): An average monthly income (after taxes) of at least 300 days of the Mexican minimum wage: 300 X $102.68 = $30,804 pesos, or about $1,621 USD*. You must show proof (original documents and copies of each) for the previous 6 months. Savings / Investments: Investments or bank accounts with an average monthly balance of at least 5,000 days worth of minimum wage: 5,000 X $102.68 = $513,400 pesos, or about $27,021 USD*. You must show proof (original documents and copies of each) for the previous 12 months. Own Real Estate: You own real estate in Mexico valued at over 40,000 days of minimum wage: 40,000 X $102.68 = $4,107,200 pesos, or about $216,168 USD*.

Permanent Resident Card Generally speaking, people who immigrate to Mexico are required to complete four years as a temporary resident, after which they can obtain their permanent residency; however, Mexico made an exception for foreign retirees/ pensioners. They can apply for permanent residency right away — provided they meet all the qualifications. You only have to meet one of the following: Retirement Benefit (e.g Pension): An average monthly retirement income (after taxes) greater than 500 days of the Mexican minimum wage: 500 X $102.68 = $51,340 pesos, or about $2,702 USD* You must show proof (original documents and copies of each) for the previous 6 months. Savings / Investments: Investments or bank accounts with an average monthly balance of at least 20,000 days worth of minimum wage: 20,000 X $102.68 = $2,053,600 pesos, or about $108,084 USD*. You must show proof (original

documents and copies of each) for the previous 12 months. Spouses and Dependents You’ll have to add 100 days of the minimum wage to the figures above per dependent. 100 X $102.68 = $10,268 pesos or about $540 USD*. The process to apply for a temporary or permanent resident card will begin outside of Mexico at a Mexican Consulate. They will review your application, conduct an interview and assess whether or not you meet all the requirements. Since the financial requirements are originally set in pesos, each consulate has to determine what the equivalent value would be in the local currency. The exchange rate used for that conversion will determine the actual dollar amounts required and those numbers often vary from consulate to consulate. Updated January 2019 due to the increase in Mexico’s minimum wage from $88.36 MXN per day to $102.68 MXN per day. * Exchange rate used 19 MXN to 1 USD

events

April 11 - 17, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com

Upcoming Spring events in April and May 2nd Riviera Nayarit Rock Festival: April 19 • Rock enthusiasts should head to Explanada Mezcales for twelve hours of uninterrupted beats dropped by Spanish rock sensations Maldita Vecindad, Inspector, Genitallica, among nine other national bands. Over 15,000 attendees from around Mexico and the world are expected to join the musical celebration, in addition to several local food and souvenir stands that will be present at the festival. Tickets are set at USD$25 per person. Cuisine of the Sun: April 23 – 26 • For the third consecutive year, Food Network celebrity chef and USFOODS culinary specialist, Penny Davidi will bring together some of the biggest names in the food and wine industry for an event filled with talent, recipes and flair for gourmet cuisine. Taking place at the AAA Four-Diamond Villa La Estancia Flamingos, the four-day event will feature elegant dinners, beachside BBQs, poolside snacks, cooking classes, contests and

much more. Confirmed names include celebrity chef and revered cocktail mixologist Nick Liberato, star of Top Chef Boston and Top Chef Mexico Katsuji Tanabe and the region’s gastronomy ambassador, Betty Vasquez. 2019 Jaguar Polo Cup: April 25 – 28 • A perfect farewell to polo season in Riviera Nayarit, the Jaguar Polo Cup will unite polo fanatics from around the globe at La Patrona Polo & Equestrian Club in San Pancho. In addition to the tournament, the four-day event will feature a movie night, culinary tastings, live music and polo clinics and classes for novices looking to play the “sport of kings.” RHA Festival: April 26-27 • Techno music aficionados will dance to the beat of some of the best global house legends including Guy Gerber, Viceroy, Bones, Jonas Rathsman, Tom & Collins, and more. Meaning water flowing in wixárika, the language of the region’s indigenous people, RHA embraces the native Huichol

culture in a paradisiacal beach setting, providing amazing views and picture-perfect moments throughout the duration of the festival. General admission tickets begin at USD$95 per person. Restaurant Week May 15 – June 10 • 61 participating restaurants from Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit will offer a wide variety of cuisines, and an excellent opportunity for guests to enjoy the many flavors of the destination at reduced prices. Participating restaurants offer special, three-course menus (appetizers, main course and dessert), with three different options, at fixed prices (tips and beverages not included). This year, there will be three menu price categories to choose: $289, $399 and $466 pesos. Riviera Nayarit Wind Festival: May 17 - 19 • Celebrated in the family-friendly resort town of Nuevo Vallarta, participants from all over will gather for a weekend filled with water activities in what is known as one of

Vallarta Aztec Folklore Festival 2019 April 29 – May 5, 2019 Dancers from around the country will participate in the 13th annual Aztec Folklore Festival. Nightly shows along the malecon and in other venues around the city will showcase the traditional costumes and dances of the different states and indigenous groups in Mexico.

Puerto Vallarta Open 2019

GraffitiFest Saturday April 13-Sunday April 14 10am – 8pm More than 100 urban artists locally and internationally will be painting in various points around the city, a

live music festival and activities for all ages. Most held at El Cora Park behind Col. Las Caviotas across from Canica. Look for GraffitiFest on Facebook.

April 29 – May 5, 2019 Professional Tennis returns to Vallarta with the ATP Challenger Tour, Puerto Vallarta Open. A high level of professional tennis with players from all over the world including Mexico’s top players. Held at Parota Park in the north Hotel Zone beside Marbella Condominiums.

Celebrate Passover Seder

uerto Vallarta Jewish Community invites you to our Passover Seder on Friday, April 19, 2019 at 6:30 PM. The location is the River Café on the River Cuale.

Volunteers are needed as greeters, to read Hebrew parts, hand out and collect Haggadahs, kippas, to perform the lighting of the candle ceremony, and to help children

with the Four Questions. For special needs, general questions, general questions, and to volunteer, please contact Donna at: helth1@sbcglobal.net

the destination’s marquee festivals. From downwind to freestyle and regatta slalom, the event promotes the sport of windsurfing, taking advantage of Riviera Nayarit’s

idyllic beaches which provide the perfect setting for it. Ticket prices vary based on category and date of purchase.

Artisan and Farmer’s Markets in Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit

very year at the end of October through the first week of November we welcome back the many artisan and farmer’s markets that pop-up around the bay and north through the towns of Riviera Nayarit. These markets represent local producers, artisans and entrepreneurs selling homemade food, organic products, arts and crafts, jewelry and more. They are an excellent resource for fresh baked treats, hard to find items and unique souvenirs. Here is an up to date list for most markets, if you know of another please email and we’ll add it to the list. Editor@vallartatribune.com

Friday Marsol Friday Market by the Pier - 9:30 am -1:30 pm Open every Friday all year located on Francisca Rodriguez Sayulita Mercado del Pueblo - 10 am -2 pm – On Calle Revolucion before the bridge Southside Shuffle every second week from 6 pm - 10 pm On Basilio Badillo, Old Town

Saturday

Olas Altas Farmer’s Market - 9:30 am - 2 pm at Lazaro Cardenas Parks, Old Town Three Hens & a Rooster Market 9 am - 1:00 pm at the Lions Club, Madero # 280 Old Town Tianguis Lo de Marcos – Located at Main plaza Nuevo Vallarta Market- 9am - 3pm Located at the gazebo on the malecon

Sunday

Huanacaxtle Farmer’s Market - 9 am -3pm Located at La Cruz Marina

Tuesday

Riviera Market 9am - 2 pm In Nuevo Vallarta in the parking lot behind the Casino.

Wednesday

Bucerias Forever Spring Market - 9 am - 1pm In the parking lot of Chedraui Bucerias Vallarta ArtWalk - 6 pm - 10 pm Various locations in downtown vallartaartwalk.com

Thursday

Bucerias ArtWalk - 7-9pm - along Lazaro Cardenas Marina Vallarta Night Market- 6 pm -10 pm along the marina boardwalk

events

23 This listing features ongoing acts and events at bars, restaurants and venues. We do not take responsibity for misinformation. Contact the venue if you have questions. Email editor@vallartatribune.com to update or add listings.

VALLARTA Bambinos Trattoria (Aguacate #314) Tues: Beatles Tribute 8 pm Thur: Legends of Rock & Roll 8 pm Sat: Frankie Valli & Four Seasons 8 pm Babel Bar (Aquiles Serdán 437, Isla del Cuale) Mon: Dueto Tajin 1 – 3 pm Tue: Lobo & Esau 1 – 3 pm Wed: El Sindrome de Willy 1 - 3 pm Thur: Moruno 1 - 3 pm Thur: Oscar & Miguel 6:30 – 8:30 pm Fri: Cesar MediAna 1 – 3 pm Fri: Moruno 6:30 – 8:30 pm Sat: Oscar & Raul 1 – 3 pm Sat: Faralae 6:30 – 8:30 pm Sun: Media Luna 1 - 3 pm Bistro Teresa (Zaragoza 160 4th floor) Wed: Zoe & Leon 6-8 pm Blakes Restaurant and Bar (Plaza Los Glorias #16) Tues: Tres Cuartoz jam 3 – 6 pm Sat: Tres Cuartoz 2:30 – 5:30 pm Café Roma (Encino 287 near flea market) Thurs: The Others 6 – 9 pm Sat: Tequila Rush 6 – 9 pm

Live Music Calendar Incanto (Insurgentes 109) Mon:Joby & Tongo 5 pm Mon: Zoe & Leon with Renteria Bros 7:30 pm Tue: George Gracia 5 pm Wed: Jay-Gee, Piano 5:00 pm Wed: Salsa dancing lessons 8pm Thurs: Edgar Roxha 5:00 pm Thurs: Media Luna & Open mic 7:30 pm Fri: Joan Houston 5:00 pm Fri: Dennis Crow 9:30 pm see calendar Sat: Zarapes de Neon 7:30 pm Sun: Red Suitcase Band 7:30 pm Sun: Salsa dancing lessons 8pm Sun: Mike Rodriguez Select Sundays See calendar Mark Hartman, Piano. Select 9:30pm. See Calendar

Warique (Aquiles Serdan 280) Mon: Luis Ortega 7 – 10pm Wed: Luis Ortega 7 – 10pm Thurs: Mikki Prost 7 – 10 pm Fri: Luis Ortega 7 – 10pm Sat: Ever Hernandez 7 - 10 pm Winston’s Bar and Grill (Peru by the Shell) Wed: The Slassics 3 – 6 pm Fri: Paranoia 3-6 pm Sun: The Change 3 – 6 pm

NUEVO VALLARTA

Kelly’s Pour Favor Saloon and Cookhouse (Lazaro Cardenas 245) Mon: Hoochie Coochie Men 8 - 11 pm Tue: Trez Cuartoz 8:30 – 11:30 pm Wed: Tequila Rush 8 – 11 pm Thurs: 3Tones 8 – 11 pm Fri: The Others 8:30 – 11:30 pm Sat: Soul Trip 8 – 11 pm Sun: Dr Groove 9 - 12 am

Dona Tere Restaurant Wed: 6:30 - 8:30 pm - La Patrona - Mariachi Trio Fri: 7-9 pm - Jaque Mate - Jazz Sat: 7-9 pm - Korsari - Rock ‘n Roll

Ana Bananas (Tiburón #42 | La Cruz) Mon: Soul Trip 7pm Fri: JAM 7 pm Sun: Rhythm Roosters 7 pm

Eddies Weekly – Live music 6:30 – 9:30 Sat and Sun – Live music 10 -1pm

La Casa de La Hugo (Hamburgo 146, Versalles) Fri: Stoli 7pm Sat: Dr. Groove 10 pm

El Barracuda Sat. - Los Disponibles 9pm – 11pm

Greene Tomatoe (Town Square La Cruz) Wed: The Traveling Band around 8 pm Thur: Ivan and Mike around 7pm Fri: Rock in Trio around 8 pm Sat: Crazy Boys 8 pm

Ernestos Sat. Easy Listening Favorites 6:30 pm–9:00 pm

OSO’s Oyster Bar ( La Cruz Marina) Thur: The Remedy, Open Mic 7 pm Sat: The Remedy 7 pm

Estudio Café Mon: Easy Listening Favorites 7-9pm Thurs: Oldies 7-9pm Sun: Easy Listening Favorites 10am - noon

Masala (La Cruz) Thurs: Blue Knote 7 – 9pm

La Ingrata (Abasolo 169) Sun: Soul Trip 1 am – 3 am

Cuates y Cuetes (Francisca Rodriquez 101) Wed: Tatewari 8 - 10 pm

Murphy’s Irish Pub (484 Morelos, Malecon) Thurs: Anna and the Others 10:30pm Fri: Trez Cuartoz 10:30pm Sat: Anna and the Others 10:30pm

Jardin Montenegro Restaurant Blvd. Nuevo Vallarta #220 – Nuevo Vallarta Daily except Tues: Martin Maya & Martin Montenegro 9:30 am – 1:00 pm

Nacho Daddy (287 Basilio Badillo) Tue: Cat Daddy’s 8:30 pm Wed: Joker Band 8:30 pm Fri: Texas Embassy Blues Band 8:30 pm

BUCERIAS & NORTH SHORE

Que/Pasa (625 Aquiles Serdan) Mon: Bob Tansen & Son 7 - 9 pm Tues: James Morgan 7 – 9 pm Wed: The Change 7:30 - 10:30 pm Thurs: Stolie 7 – 10 pm Fri: Gloria & Da Crew 6:30 - 9:30 pm Sat: The Hoochie Coochie Men 7 – 10 pm

Encore Restaurant & Lounge (51 Lazaro Cardenas | Bucerias) Thu: Live Jazz 7 - 10 pm Fri: Live Jazz 7 - 10 pm

El Oasis de Holi (River mouth by La Isla Mall) Tue: Dr. Groove 6 pm Sun: The Others 5 pm El Rio BBQ, (Paso Ancho) Tues: The Jokers 4 p.m. Wed: The Zippers 4 p.m. Thur: La Trez Cuartoz 4 p.m. Fri: Bob & Gilberto 4 p.m. Sat: Brimstone 4:20 p.m. Sun: The Cheko Ruiz Band 3 p.m.

JAX Bar and Grill (Avenida Mexico 17, Bucerias) Wed: Anna and The Others 8:30 pm Thurs: Trez Cuatroz 8:30 pm Sun: Mexpats 3 pm Sun: Black Mamba 8:30 pm Punta Esmeralda Beach Club (Highway from Bucerias to La Cruz) Wed: Damaged Goods 7:30 – 9:30pm Sun: Damaged Goods 7:30 – 9:30pm

Kelekai’s (Liberdad 516, Col. Playa Grande) Sun: The Bay Roots 2 - 5 pm

McCarthy’s Irish Pub (Francisco Medina) Sat: Tequila Rush 10 pm

El Bar at Food Park PV Sat: The Black Tequila 9:00 pm

Drunken Duck (Avenida Mexico, Centro | Bucerias) Tue: Andra & The Crazzy Boys 9 pm Wed: The Gecko Band 9 pm Thur: Soul Trip 9 pm Fri: Rob Cavazzini & Fede 5 pm Fri: Andra & The Crazzy Boys 9 pm Sat: Da Crew 9 pm Sun: The Gecko Band 5pm

Chasers Sports Bar (Avenida Mexico 570A) Fri: Gloria & Da Crew 5 – 7 pm Fri: Gecko Band 8 – 11 pm Sat: Cesar Medina 8 pm

Captain Don’s (Honduras 126) Fri: Tequila Rush 8 - 11 pm Sat: Da Crew 8 - 11 pm

Daquiri Dick’s Tue: Esaú Galván Flamenco Guitar 7- 9:30 pm

April 11 - 17, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com

Revolution Restaurant & Bar (Matamoros #235 Col. Centro) Sat: The Sunset Raiders 8 pm

Buzzos (In front of Bungalows Princess | Bucerias) Sat: Sweet and Sour 6 – 9pm El Chivero (Avenida Pacifico 9, Centro | Bucerias) Sat: The Gecko Band 3pm

Roxy Rockhouse (Ignacio L Vallarta 275) Gringo Loco Cantina Thurs: Gecko Band 8 – 11 pm (Francisco I. Madero 403) Thu: Martin (solo) 7 - 10 pm Nightly music after 11 pm with house band Sat: The Change 7 - 10 pm

View these listings and more online at www.vallartatribune.com/eventos/live-music-calendar/

Britannia (Coral, La Cruz) Tues: Open mic with The Turn 7pm La Cruz Inn (36 Calle Marlin | La Cruz) Sat: Music in the Street with Matt 4 to 7:30 pm Thurs: Tres Aires 5:30 to 7:45 pm Black Forest (16 Marlin, La Cruz) Fri: Gypsy Flamenco 7:30 pm

SAYULITA & SAN PANCHO El Atico Hookah (Sayulita) Tue: Soul Trip 9:30pm Jack’s Cantina (Sayulita beside bus terminal) Thurs: Tequila Rush 8 pm Faro Mita (Higuera Blanca) Fri: Soul Trip 7:30pm

entertainment

April 11 - 17, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com

Looking for Some Great Entertainment during Semana Santa?

Act II Has Some GREAT Shows for You to See!

es... Puerto Vallarta’s “winter” season is winding down, but Act II still sizzles with top-notch shows! Although the Main Stage winter musical productions end in April, many musical cabaret and drag shows continue through May! And... after a 2-year hiatus, the #1 blockbuster musical, Avenue Q, returns to Act II for a 3-week run, starting on May 6!! Act II is THE PLACE to go for live entertainment! With multiple shows every night, and featuring fabulous stage plays and Broadway musicals, as well as live cabaret and drag shows, Act II brings to you the “BEST OF THE BEST” performers in the Banderas Bay! Many of their shows sell out, so

check the schedule below and get your tickets now so that you don’t miss out! Act II is the “#1 Entertainment Venue” ~TripAdvisor (Hot off the press!) “#1 Performing Arts Venue” ~Vallarta Tribune!

Breaking News! Little Shop of Horrors, PV’s #1 musical is closing this week on Thursday, April 18! Nunsense Amen, a hilarious musical about 5 nuns, being played by 5 men, is closing this week on Sunday, April 14.

Chicago, The Musical, has TWO SHOWS LEFT! Don’t miss your chance to see this incredible production! Tickets to all shows are available today at act2pv.com. A big thank you to so many of you who have written TripAdvisor reviews on our shows! We couldn’t have done this without you! Also, it’s not too late to write a review of YOUR favorite show, too! Just go to www.tripadvisor.com. Be sure and check this week’s schedule which is printed below. Many of our shows sell out, so get your tickets now at act2pv.com!

Act II Shows, April 5 - April 12

FABULOUS FRIDAY, April 12 7:30 - PV’s #1 Songstress, Diana Villamonte - “I Will Always Love You,” a Whitney Houston Tribute. (This show always sells out! Get your ticket now for April 19!) 9:30 - Hedda Lettuce, starring in “Gringa in Paradise” (Winner Funniest Drag Show 2017/18

SENSATIONAL SATURDAY, April 13 7:00 - Chicago, the Musical - A NuName Production - Sells out every week. Get your ticket now! (Just two more shows!) 7:30 - “Twist & Shout,” song, dance and schtick, celebrating music of the 50s and 60s (Just two more shows!) 9:30 - Mama Tits, the 6’7” hilarious drag diva, starring in “Triple D”

SUPER SUNDAY, April 14 7:00 - Nunsense, Amen! A hilarious musical about 5 nuns who are played by men! (Final Show!) 7:30 - “Best of ABBA & Elton,” starring Us Two and their LIVE BAND (This show sells out every week, so it is important to get your tickets early!) 9:30 - “Dueling Drag Divas,“ starring Emmy Award-winner, Chi Chi Rones, and JoAnna (Final Show!)

MARVELOUS MONDAY,April 15 7:30 - PV’s #1 Songstress & Runner-up in Voice of Mexico, Diana Villamonte, starring in “More Motown & Beyond” (Tickets sell out, so get yours early!) 9:30 - Mama Tits, the 6’7” hilarious drag diva, starring in “Triple D”

TERRIFIC TUESDAY, April 16 7:30 - Hedda Lettuce starring in “Hedda Sings the Blues” 9:30 - Sutton Lee Seymour, starring in “Dragflix.” She sings, she dances, and she entertains!! Not to be missed! (Show closing April 18)

WONDERFUL WEDNESDAY, April 17 7:30 - Us Two – 3rd Wednesday - “Oldies, Volume 2!” This show features the best songs from the 80’s and 90’s! 9:30 – (Opening Night!) JoAnna, the Gal with a Gazillion Voices! Drag, comedy, live singing and impersonations! THRILLING THURSDAY, April 18 7:00 - Little Shop of Horrors (Final Show!) features Act II’s very own Danny Mininni as “Mr Mushnik!” 9:30 - Sutton Lee Seymour, starring in “Dragflix.” She sings, she dances, and she entertains!! Not to be missed! (Final Show!) Act II has been voted the #1 Entertainment Venue in Puerto Vallarta! For more information about the venue or shows, check out the 1100+ reviews on TripAdvisor, or go to www.act2pv.com. The box office is also open every day from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm.

Spencer Day returns with Zoe & Leon, Enrique de Allende and Alejandro Peña held over!

inger-songwriter, Spencer Day, returns to Incanto for one performance only of ‘Musica Sin Fronteras! Songs and Stories’, in collaboration with local artists Zoe & Leon with Alex Gonzalez on percussion. Spencer’s velvety smooth vocals blend with their fiery Latin guitars and earthy rhythms in this one time performance, April 12 at 8pm. Also, see Zoe & Leon on Mondays at Incanto with The Renteria Bros. at 7:30pm. Visit Incanto’s website for more information and online tickets for all shows. Patsy Meyer is an Emmy Award-nominated singer, songwriter, and percussionist. Meyer’s unique style blends soulful vocals, jazz, spicy Latin/ world percussion, and a vibrant stage persona. The Cincinnati Post’s review of her show opener for Kenny Rankin proclaimed her “the finest female voice in the territory.” A long-time resident of

and Patsy Meyer, Tatewari, and Cousin Alice at Incanto Los Angeles Patsy wrote songs for TV and film, and appeared in clubs throughout Southern California with her own band. One performance only, Friday, April 12 at 7:30pm accompanied by award-winning pianist and Music Director, Mark Hartman and local musicians Rafael Zermano on guitar and Roberto Falcon on bass. Tenor Alejandro Peña recently made his Incanto debut to a sold-out performance and multiple standing ovations. His exquisite tenor vocals moved and mesmerized the audience and there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. He will present another special evening of music, by popular demand, featuring wellloved arias and contemporary hits accompanied by Bob Bruneau at the piano. April 19 at 7pm. NYC Bistro Award-winning veteran cabaret star, Kathy

‘Babe’ Robinson, appears in Incanto’s piano bar for a limited run accompanied Music Director, Mark Hartman. ‘Babe’, as she is known as on stage performs in well-known US nightspots including The Rrazz Room (w/ Michael Ferreri), Bob Egan’s Supper Club. Now playing through April 16. The UK’s Cousin Alice’s unique singing and playing are gritty, heartfelt and sweet, delivered with humor and a captivating personality. She performs a collection of vintage jazzy swing and acoustic blues covers and originals. Now playing through April 14. Tatewari, the exceptional flamenco group, will return to Incanto on April 13 at 8pm with another extraordinary show celebrating life and love with tangos, burlerías, solea, guajira, rumba, ballads, dance, and jaleo with special guest vocalist, Perla

Alarcón. Classically trained vocalist Enrique de Allende recently made his Incanto debut to packed houses and standing ovations. Described by legendary music producer, David Foster, as having “a very sweet but powerful voice”, Enrique sings many of your well-known favorites. April 22 at 8pm, accompanied by Jean-Guy Comeau at the piano. Extended again through April, Naked Boys Singing! is a fun, sassy enduring musical comedy now celebrating twenty-years off-Broadway. The all-Latino ensemble cast features six young local actors who sing and dance their way into your heart. Presented in English, now playing through April 27. Media Luna plays fiery flamenco, huapango, rock originals, and covers. They welcome a variety of special

guest musicians to join them. Final shows April 11 & 18 at 7pm. Located at Insurgentes 109 (at the Rio Cuale) open 9am-11:30pm daily. Breakfast 9am-2pm. Lunch 12pm-11pm. Evening menu 4-11pm. Happy Hour 4-6pm 2x1 show tickets to select shows 4-5pm daily. Information and online tickets visit www. IncantoVallarta.com Incantopv@gmail.com 322 223-9756

Vallarta Tribune Annual Reader’s Choice Awards 2019 BEST COFFEE SHOP (Puerto Vallarta) A page in the Sun Puerto Café Dee’s Coffee

BEST FLORIST (Puerto Vallarta) Flowers to Go Eder Flores Luxury Flowers PV Florart

BEST REAL ESTATE BROKERAGE (North Shore) Elements Realty Bienvenidos Real Estate Riviera Partners Realty

BEST PLACE FOR A MARG Joe Jack’s Fish Shack Margarita Grill No Way José

BEST TRAVEL AGENCY Superior Tours Mex-ECO Tours Vallarta Explore

BEST CHIROPRATOR Erik Fulfer Rachel Grosik Susan Colby

AS VOTED ON BY THE READER’S OF THE VALLARTA TRIBUNE

All the results are now online at: www.vallartatribune.com/best-of-banderas-bay-2019

local

Vibes & Vices:

La Fisicalia

AJ Freeman

cosmiccapt@gmail.com

AJ Freeman is an adventurous spirit, serial friendmaker, and general enthusiast. He lives his everyday life hoping to demonstrate the nearly infinite potential for discovery and wonder on this small wet rock orbiting a dim yellow star in the backwoods of the Milky

t was a productive and fulfilling start to the week...I had been invited to a scientific conference at an Unnamed All-Inclusive Hotel (no hard feelings, guys) and was excited for several days of lectures on one of my favorite subjects. Little did I know I was in for the experience of a lifetime...but not the one I expected. After a welcome party at the hotel the previous evening, the morning of the first presentations came. I arrived onsite and took my seat between a senior Cambridge professor and an actual NASA employee, furiously working my purple pen to keep notes on the advanced material. Lunchtime came, and after a meal of a few mediocre egg rolls and what was possibly the single okayest cheeseburger in paradise, I started to pack up and head back upstairs to take in the afternoon's lectures. Started to.â&#x20AC;¨â&#x20AC;¨As I moved toward the exit of the cafeteria, an understimulated hotel staffer approached me and asked if I had paid for my meal, accusing me of hamburglary and insisting that I owed the frankly ridiculous sum of $25. I calmly explained that I was an invited guest of the conference taking place, an explanation that apparently did not satisfy the man in the collared shirt. I reached for my phone to contact the event organizer and clear everything up only to discover that it was dead (sorry my nose isn't pressed up against the thing all day, I know that is expected of us in 2019). A dispute arose as to who was responsible for settling the tab...I admit, I got pretty worked up over the whole thing. Apparently I was in need of relaxation...luckily, today I would get it. Buffet Secret Service produced a phone of his own, which was very much alive. He punched in a few numbers, and in what seemed like seconds a brightly decorated vehicle appeared on the scene. Before I knew it, I was the fortunate

recipient of a police escort north of the airport to the neighborhood of Las Juntas, home of La Fisicalia Correctional Spa. The Vibes: Secured at the wrist to the open-air passenger platform for safety or something, I felt the cool highway breeze whip pleasantly through my hair as we sped up 200 toward our destination for the evening. I made conversation with my security detail on the ride, mostly about current events such as my impending stay at La Fisicalia. Upon my arrival at the accommodations, I learned that the establishment was based in part on the sensory deprivation concept that has become popular with some demographics in recent years. I was encouraged to remove all my bracelets, necklaces, and other character design elements to fully immerse myself in the experience. Although I was initially hesitant, the staff was very convincing in their desire to have me get into the spirit of the setting. I hadn't actually seen my wrists in years, so it was a unique opportunity for self-examination. After being processed and photographed (I assume for advertising purposes, happens to me pretty regularly), I was shown to my quarters. A minimalist space was dominated by stately grey tones and empty of every imaginable object except for a molded concrete toilet, which could only be flushed from outside. I thought it showed a commitment to service by the staff. At first I was told that I would only be provided with hourly lodging--a standard practice in accommodations of a certain caliber--but as the door closed behind me the bellhop informed me that my stay might possibly be extended overnight, allowing me to experience a full rotation of The Earth in the healing embrace of the correctional spa. A customer service agent later came to confirm this, leaving me to unwind after a short day on the cold concrete floor. She added that

I would at least get to enjoy a room to myself while adjacent suites were occupied by 5 or 6 guests. Some call that "solitary confinement," but I preferred to think of it as VIP treatment. For full disclosure, I found the lack of certainty regarding the length of my stay somewhat unprofessional for my American sensibilities and asked to speak with the manager in my best imitation of a Midwestern mother. The staff, hearing my concerns, offered me a complimentary Mace facial for my inconvenience, which I declined as I am unfortunately allergic to Mace. Still, it's the thought that counts. The Vices: Left to my own devices without any of my own devices, I discovered other ways to help me make the most of my stay at La Fisicalia. Following the lead of ORLANDO HECTOR, the gentleman who had previously enjoyed a stay in my room and made his mark in three-inch letters on the ceiling, I scrawled out my own in the wall-size guestbook using a button from my cargo shorts. With the lack of distractions, my creativity was unlocked already. Some time later, I was offered a refreshment: rebottled water. It seemed a bit oily, which I attributed to some kind of health food thing... maybe it was alkaline or charcoal-activated or whatever. In any event, it was a bit too fancy for me so I didn't drink much. I pride myself on being able to foster camaraderie in a wide range of scenarios, a skill which served me well during my stay at La Fisicalia. I forged a connection with several large cockroaches that crawled out of the toilet in my quarters during the evening. For hours we played catch with one of my shoes until our game was broken up by a hungry sparrow, who had apparently also caught wind of the cuisine offered at these friendly confines. Isolation in the chamber was a chance to be alone with my thoughts, a luxury we are rarely afforded in our modern world. I considered that every decision I had made in my 31 years had led

April 11 - 17, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com

me here, and pondered what it meant to start April Fools' Day at a conference on the furthest reaches of space and end it in this room exploring the deepest recesses of my mind. My preset wakeup call came at approximately 7am as flights began to depart from the airport nearby, but I found it unnecessary as the excitement of being invited to La Fisicalia hadn't worn off since the moment I stepped off the shuttle, and I had been unable to sleep. Some time later, room service arrived: tortillas--dyed grey to match my room's decor, an inspired touch--along with some kind of food liquid and what could have possibly been eggs. It was probably vegan, which reflected the correctional spa's focus on a holistic approach. I'm not sure why, but I wasn't feeling very hungry. The daily activity schedule offered plenty of options for passing the time. I meditated. I took a short nap. I performed a bit of karaoke. I used my very limited mathleticism to figure out that a mile was about 1,730 steps for me, and put several of them on my internal FitBit during the day. I inquired repeatedly about early check-out and was told I would have to wait the full 24 hours. The commitment to their method was admirable, but I was ready to go for a smoke. "There must be some kind of way out of here," said this joker to a guy next door. He didn't get the reference, a profound reminder that my reality is only my own. Some time later, a

representative from the front desk came to my room to inform me that my stay at La Fisicalia was at an end. I'm notoriously terrible with hotel check-out times, and so I truly appreciated the reminder...another example of the exceptional caliber of service. I had heard rumors that the staff at La Fisicalia had a reputation for taking valuables from their guests while they slept, one which I happily discovered was wholly unfounded. In fact, I was pleasantly surprised to find all my party apparati safely in my backpack where I had surreptitiously stashed them while being checked in because you can't be too careful. Once I had served my time in journalistic endeavour, I gathered my things and headed for the nearest Oxxo to retox myself with a few cold cans. The return trip to town was not included with the excursion, and so after I drank all 3 x 37 pesos on a highway bus stop, I set off for La Chingona for my first meal in about 30 hours because I said I'd catch you there, dammit. The Verdict: Although the facilities could use some redecorating in my opinion and the amenities don't quite fit with my interests, I can see La Fisicalia getting a lot of repeat business. In fact, I was intrigued to see that the correctional spa had a community outreach program that offered free day passes and seemed to take a focus on the disadvantaged. Sadly, I'm not sure it's really for me...probably won't catch me there again.

local

April 11 - 17, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com

Three times in a weekend! Nirvana!

IFC Invites you In

Christie Seeley

John Warren

From Oakland, California to Puerto Vallarta…lured by music of guitars and sounds of the sea. vallartasounds.com

John Warren is in charge of Publicity for the International Friendship Club (IFC). His articles describe the programs and charities that IFC supports, the sources of income of IFC and the social experiences, lectures and classes that members can enjoy. During the summer John writes about Puerto Vallarta.

vezelay@mac.com

john3984@me.com

ast Thursday marked the 25th anniversary of a great loss, that of Kurt Cobain, a loss to his generation and the music world in general. Having teens in my household at the time, it seemed the world of free expression in the form of underground music had come to an abrupt end. The New York Times wrote a very rich article with recommendations for reading about the legend and also shared some tremendously inspiring videos that made me understand even fuller what my children were talking about. See the New York Times article for more: https://www.nytimes. com/2019/04/05/arts/music/kurt-cobain-nirvana-death.html Speaking of “Nirvana”, on the weekend I had the opportunity to enjoy the remarkable Mediterranean and jazz manouche music of Moruno three times! Friday night at Babel Bar I enjoyed Diego Mateos on guitar and Nacho Flores playing guitar, mandolin, bazooki and Arabian Oud and beautiful belly dancer Aisha Santy—a fabulous show to be repeated only once more this season. At the Olas Altas Market on Saturday Moruno played the big stage for four hours with guest violinist, Carlos Rodríguez. That was a real treat reminding me of the early days when Osmar Esquivel (now of Gato Negro in Leon) played with them. Carlos is a wonderful addition to their already marvelous sound. Having spent a fun afternoon at the movies with friends, I finished my Sunday at Cuates y Cuetes and there they were again! With Oscar Terrazas on sax it was a whole different show. What a treat to hear so much variety from them in such a short time! The movie I saw with musical friends from Media Luna and Tajín, was filmed in Puerto Vallarta and, indeed, was quite entertaining! I loved the music of Los Enanitos Verdes from the 90’s Latin Rock era. Speaking of Media Luna they have only two more shows this season at Incanto before heading

It’s A Wrap!

out for summertime pursuits. You don’t want to miss their exciting and energetic Latin Fusion music. This Thursday, April 11 and the following Thursday, April 18 at 7:00 PM they will entertain us with their full band and remarkable music. Colombian Guilio Urango on accordion will be their special guest! (Incantovallarta. com for tickets) There is also still time to catch

the fabulous fiery flamenco music of Tatewari at Incanto with guest vocalist the lovely and talented Perla Alarcón on April 13 at 8:00–probably the last such show this season. Music has such a profound influence on our lives, don’t let opportunities to hear the best Puerto Vallarta has to offer slip by! For further details, see my website: vallartasounds.com

he International Friendship Club (IFC) has finished its 34th successful season of Home Tours, Dine Arounds, bridge games and classes, lectures, movie nights, yoga and meetings. Phew! The club had its Farewell Brunch last Sunday at Le Bistro Restaurant on the island in the Rio Cuale, where management, chefs and staff provided an excellent meal to over a hundred members and friends. Kharla Barragan brought thirty of her singing group, ALAS - Escuela de canto, to entertain the crowd and had them clapping along with the music and smiling with joy. The morning ended with raffle tickets drawn for dozens of prizes that were supplied by generous donors. Each year our “Preferred Merchants” of IFC step up and help with our efforts to raise money for our programs and charities by donating goods and services in the form of gift certificates for our raffle. Many thanks to all those businesses and people who have helped. The many restaurants who gave us certificates include Eclectico’s, Layla’s, No Way Jose, Casa Traditional, Roberto’s, Trio, Le Bistro, Blue Shrimp/Si Senior Restaurant, No Se Nada, 4 Sapori, Tacuba (Victor’s), Las Palomas Doradas, Portobello, Route 66, Nacho Daddy’s, and Mariachiles. Passes for entertainment came from Incanto, Zapeda Sailing and Tours, Vallarta Botanical Gardens, Act 11 Main Stage, Cassandra Shaw Jewelry, Galeria June Rosen Lopez, Be Yees Jewelry, Zapotec Art, Marina Salon Spa Massage, Alexander A. haircut and style, Millennium Spa, Salsa Salon. What a caring community we live in! Thank you! The season to raise money runs from late November to the end of March; a scant four months. That’s when Puerto Vallarta is flooded with visitors and snowbirds. However, for the next eight months, the club’s income will be non-existent, but its help to the community will continue through the long, hot months of

summer. The doctors involved with the cleft palate flew in from Guadalajara last week and continued the work that they have been doing with children born with cleft palates and lips for the last thirty-four years. They will be in town another two or three times before the end of the year. The club provides monthly income to many of the twenty or so charities it supports. New mom’s with HIV will still get milk for their babies through the AIDS organization, SETAC. Pasitos de Luz will receive money to help their children who need physical therapy, meals, and love. Casa Hogar Maximo Cornejo, which provides a home for children abandoned in the streets, will continue to get IFC’s financial support. Anti-venom serum for scorpion stings will be purchased and sent to Mayto, an oceanside community with hardly any medical care. Clinica Sta. Barbara de Rehabiltacion Vallarta is a family rehab center where IFC’s donations offset costs of treatment for individuals with little financial means to pay. The club has agreed to fund an “Apapacho” program at the Biblioteca Los Mangos that helps new parents learn how to read to their children and instills a strong sense of communication between infant and parent. IAMPV will receive help to buy new music stands and sheet music. The Volcanes Community Education Project will get help to pay their teachers’ salaries. The list goes on, and so does the need for the IFC’s support to the community. The club provides vital support to hundreds of Mexican children. None of it would be possible without the help of its homeowners, its volunteers and the business owners of Puerto Vallarta. Muchas, muchas gracias!!

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Personal Shopper

Buy & Sell ~ Anything & Everything

sherryvallarta@yahoo.com 044 322 137 7063 MARSOL FRIDAY MARKET BY THE PIER CADA VIERNES 9:30 am - 1:30 pm Find us at: Show Room @ SUCESOS BOUTIQUE Tuesday Market @ Nuevo Vallarta Thursday Market @ La Marina Vallarta Sunday Market @ La Cruz de Huanacaxtle

www.palmaleone.com

20% OFF PEARL NECKLACES AUGUSTIN RODRIGUEZ 315, DOWNTOWN

2018 & 2019 WINNER! Vallarta Tribune’s “Best Clothing Store in Vallarta” LEMONGRASSPV.COM

ART ARTE JEWELRY JOYERÍA CRAFTS ARTESANÍA CLOTHING ROPA PASTRY PASTELES HOME DECOR MUEBLES HERBALIST HERBALISTA FOOD COMIDA MUSIC MÚSICA HOTEL MARSOL 103 FRANCISCA RODRIGUEZ OLAS ALTAS

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2nd Annual Reader’s Choice Awards

1000’s of votes for the

‘best of everything’ in Puerto Vallarta, Banderas Bay and Riviera Nayarit Best

Restaurants

Best Hotels

Best

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Dentist

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MURPHY’S IRISH PUB

All the resultsLocated are now at: Malecon across on online the Historic www.vallartatribune.com/best-of-banderas-bay-2019/ from the lighthouse statue (El Faro) beautiful sunset views every night!

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

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

Murphys Puerto Vallarta

Marsol Friday Market by the Pier by Marcia Blondin

El Guapo

www.vallartatribune.com

ulio “Guapo” has his extensive collection of leather goods at the far back wall of Marsol Market. From huaraches to beautiful sandals; coin purses to belts, Julio has leather in every color, shape, and style. If you just need a wallet or a sizeable hand-tooled purse or maybe a computer bag

for your laptop, Julio likely has it in stock. If not, he will have it next week. April 19th is Good Friday, and yes, the Marsol Market WILL BE OPEN! The Marsol Friday Market by the Pier presents, accompanied by live music: Walking tours and guide books; cotton wine/gift bags, and Louisiana peanut brittle. Herbal extracts, creams, and potions by Ricardo

Mazcal. 100% cotton clothing and crocheted items. Talavera pottery, and Huichol crafts. Fun art, greeting cards, and fabric handbags; Bark art, and animal-rescue info. Home décor advice from Sherry; dog and human baked treats by Kim. Corn-husk flowers, Mexican nuts, candies, hot sandwiches, and fine-art paintings. Pickled beets, sauerkraut, smoked meat,

artisanal tequila, and essential oils. Jewelry made with: sterling silver; faceted glass and semi-precious stones; repurposed fabrics; leather for men and women; sea glass and beach tile; estate, antique jewelry, and more. Join us year-round at the Marsol Friday Market by the Pier. Open from 9:30 am to

1:30 pm.

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

games

April 11 - 17, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com

Vintage Spoon Jewelry & Boutique

2nd Annual Reader’s Choice Awards

1000’s of votes for the

Basilio Badillo 325, Puerto Vallarta, México www.chantelvintagespoonjewelry.com

‘best of everything’

Olas Altas Farmers Market Park Lázaro Cárdenas Saturdays 9-2

in Puerto Vallarta, Banderas Bay and Riviera Nayarit Best

Restaurants

Best Hotels

Best Salon

Best

Dentist

Handcrafted in Puerto Vallarta, México

Best

Happy Hour

All the results are now online at: www.vallartatribune.com/best-of-banderas-bay-2019/

La Cruz Market La Cruz de Huanacaxtle Marina Sundays 9-2