NEWS
CULTURE
SHOPPING
Turtle Season Begins
Mexico’s Fascination With Spicy Candy
Awning Buying Guide
Page 6
Page 8
Page 15 July 11 - 17, 2019 Year 22 Free Issue 1162
FR EE
GU ID E
ALL-INCLUSIVE NEWS AND ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE FOR PUERTO VALLARTA AND RIVIERA NAYARIT
Mexico’s Favorite Frozen Treat MAP OF BANDERAS BAY
PAGE 12-13
VALLARTA SHOPPING PAGES 14-15
ENTERTAINMENT PAGES 19-21
CROSSWORD PAGE 22
WWW.VALLARTATRIBUNE.COM | FB/VTATRIBUNE | TWITTER @VALLARTATRIBUNE | INSTAGRAM @VALLARTATRIBUNE
editorial
03
Editor’s
July 11 - 17, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com
Note
Page 11
editor@vallartatribune.com
W
e’ve implemented a subtle but important change in this edition of the Vallarta Tribune: The section that we used to call ‘Local’ is now called ‘Local Voices.’ The change allows us to better reflect and celebrate our contributors, who week by week bring different colors to our publication. I’ve had the opportunity to exchange messages with a few of them over the past couple of weeks and let me tell you, they are a feisty bunch! They are all well versed in the topics they have chosen to share with us, they have strong opinions, but are not opinionated. Best of all, they are passionate about their lives and our destination, and quite eager to share that passion with you. They generously share their columns with us without any compensation and, in exchange, we include a bit of information about their lives and/or line of work, along with ways in which you can connect with them directly. They appreciate the privilege of having an ongoing
Page 9 presence in a local newspaper and welcome the opportunity responsibly and respectfully. And most importantly, they are mindful of the time-sensitive demands imposed by a weekly publication schedule and they submit their contributions to us on time! We are extremely grateful for that. If you have an area of expertise in your life or work that you think our readers might benefit from learning through a weekly column, please consider getting in touch with us. We are looking for interesting, ongoing series of articles that can help connect our readers with our destination and its many wonders. The commitment does not have to be weekly. Some contributors share their articles with us every other week; others every few months. That said, we do like the idea of regular, frequent contributions just as we like the idea of running into friends out and about around the city. If this is something that might interest you, please send a message to editor@
Page 16
Photo by Aline Ponce vallartatribune.com to get the ball rolling. As we continue to improve the integration between the print edition of Vallarta Tribune with our website, www.vallartatribune.com and our Facebook page, facebook. com/VtaTribun, we sincerely hope you’ll take the time to peruse our articles in any of the three outlets. And if you prefer to look at past issues online as though you were reading the actual edition, we also publish to issuu.com/vallartatribune. This final option will be helpful, for example, if you follow Via Anderson’s excellent column, Movement as Medicine, as she makes references to past editions this week. Most important, however, is your feedback. If there are topics you’d like to see featured in our pages or have comments about any of the articles we’ve shared with you, do not hesitate to get in touch with us. Enjoy, Paco Ojeda Interim Editor
Page 17
Letters to the Editor
V
allarta Tribune welcomes letters to the editor on any subject, along with comments or suggestions on how we can continue to make this a better publication. We encourage you to submit letters under 250 words before noon each Monday to be possibly included for the following Thursday edition. Due to space constraints, we reserve the right to edit, and publish your submissions in print, online, or not at all. Please submit your letters to editor@vallartatribune.com.
welcome
Welcome to Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit
A
t the Vallarta 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. TIME ZONE: The entire state of Jalisco and the southern part Nayarit are on Central time – if you’re heading further north than Lo de Marcos, Nayarit, remember the time change so you don’t miss your flight. BUSES: A system of urban buses can bring you from El Tuito in the south to San Pancho in the north and all the spots in between. Fares vary according to distances travelled, but the base fare is 10 pesos. If you’re going further than San Pancho, head to the main bus terminal to catch a ‘Pacifico’ bus. TAXIS: There are set fares within defined zones of town. Do not enter a taxi without agreeing on the price with the driver. 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 cheaper than a taxi usually. GETTING AROUND: In many places such as Centro Vallarta and Nuevo Vallarta there are paths for bikes and pedestrians. Please be respectful of these designations. MONEY EXCHANGE: The most hassle-free way to exchange money is to use your debit card in the ATM to withdraw pesos. Exchange houses offer higher rates and banks are remiss to change dollars to pesos if you don’t hold an account with them. Best to use ATM’s that are affiliated with a reputable bank located in well lit secure areas. TIPPING: In general you should tip 10-20% in restaurants and bars. Taxi or Uber drivers – 10-20 pesos. The person who bags your groceries or helps load your car – 10-20 pesos. Don’t forget to tip
Photo by Paco Ojeda
your maid, bell boy, masseuse, the band, the entertainment on your tour. And by all means, tip more if you want, wages are extremely low in Mexico. DRINKING WATER: While Puerto Vallarta’s water has been awarded a certification of purity for 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. Don’t wreck your holiday – buy bottle water. 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. The process is inexpensive and only takes a day or two. You only need a certificate of health from a local vet and check with your airline for additional requirements. 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, politeness is paramount. 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 very expensive. You can go to jail and your vehicle impounded. There are many checkstops on the weekends, and you will be asked to take a breathalizer test 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 often 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 Ana Espinosa
July 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 FIRE DEPARTMENT: 322.223.9476 AMBULANCE: 322.222.1533
Ahoy Cruisers!
IMMIGRATION: 322.224.7719 CONSUMER PROTECTION: 01.800.468.8722 TOURISM OFFICES Jalisco: 322.221.2676 Nayarit: 322.297.1006
CONSULATES American Consulate 24 hrs 01-332-268-2100 Canadian Consulate 322.293.0098 322.293.0099 24 hrs: 1.800.706.2900
In port this month
In the month of June, July and August Puerto Vallarta & Riviera Nayarit welcomes 28,800 passengers! Bienvenido! NAME
CARNIVAL CARNIVAL CARNIVAL CARNIVAL CARNIVAL CARNIVAL CARNIVAL CARNIVAL CARNIVAL
PASS
DATE
3,200 03.07.2019 3,200 10.07.2019 3,200 17.07.2019 3,200 24.07.2019 3,200 31.07.2019 3,200 07.08.2019 3,200 14.08.2019 3,200 21.08.2019 3,200 28.08.2019
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
04
news briefs
05
July 11 - 17, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com
Galleria Dante Gets a Face Lift
S
nowbirds returning to Puerto Vallarta this winter will be pleasantly surprised by a new and improved Galleria Dante. Founded over 30 years ago by Joe and Claire Guarniere, the gallery has grown to become a required stop for art-loving tourists and locals looking for quality pieces to decorate their homes. Through the passing of time, however, remodeling the main building gradually went from aspiration to a priority and gutting the entire structure ultimately became more feasible. “Our roof was damaged by construction and we couldn’t have made it through another rain season,” commented Claire. Once the project is concluded, Galleria Dante will feature a two-story, air-conditioned exhibition space, a conference room, and expanded wine cellar for their DiVino Dante restaurant, next door. In the meantime, adjacent areas of the gallery are open for business • PO
Local Hotel Provides Exhibition Space
H
otel Tropicus, a fairly new hotel in Puerto Vallarta’s Emiliano Zapata Neighborhood (on Insurgentes St., across from Farmacia Guadalajara) is welcoming submissions by local artists. “We think of our hotel as a canvas,” commented partner/manager Noe Lucatero. The hotel features 24 rooms, for which two local artists have been commissioned to create mirrors using paper mache and collage techniques. Rather than tearing down the property and build something new, the owners are keen on preserving a traditional neighborhood building and repurposing materials wherever possible. This can be evidenced in their lobby area, where old doors are used to adorn walls, next to a stunning mural, created by local artist, Tony Collantez. Interested artists can email HotelTropicus@gmail.com for more information. • PO
Telephone Dialing Procedures Updated Next Month Mexico Adds Three Long Weekends to Calendar
M
exico’s Education and Tourism Secretaries have agreed on adding three long weekends to the upcoming school year in hopes of increasing tourismbased revenue throughout the country. The three new puentes, as they are called locally (bridges, in English) will be September 13-16, April 30-May 5, 2020 and May 15-17, 2020. What about education? INEGI, Mexico’s Statistics and Geography Institute, has determined that Mexican nationals reach an average education level equivalent to high school, while the United Nation’s 2015 Education Index Report places the country in 101st place, worldwide—Australia, Denmark and New Zealand in first, second and third place, respectively. • PO
New Flights, Passenger Increase Announced
G M
exico’s Federal Telecommunications Institute has announced new telephone dialing procedures that will go into effect August 3. Some fairly common prefixes, such as 01, 044 and 045 will no longer be necessary for national calls regardless of location, thus standardizing all national calls to 10 digits, regardless of whether you are dialing from a landline or a cell phone. Placing calls to Mexico from abroad will no longer have to add a “1” to the country code (i.e. 52+10 digits, instead of 52+1+10 digits). Emergency numbers remain the same: 911 for emergencies, 068 for the fire department, or 065 for the Red Cross. • PO
rupo Aeroportuario del Pacífio (GAP), the airport management agency that oversees Mexico’s Pacific region, has announced a passenger traffic increase of 9% during the month of June at the company’s 13 airports in the region when compared to the same period of the previous year. In addition, the agency announced the following new flights programmed for Puerto Vallarta: Puerto Vallarta to Ciudad de México: Aeromar Puerto Vallarta to Las Vegas: Sun Country Puerto Vallarta to Phoenix: Volaris Puerto Vallarta to Querétaro: Volaris GAP operates 12 airports throughout Mexico’s Pacific region, including the major cities of Guadalajara and Tijuana, the four tourist destinations of Puerto Vallarta, Los Cabos, La Paz and Manzanillo, and six other mid-sized cities: Hermosillo, Guanajuato, Morelia, Aguascalientes, Mexicali and Los Mochis. • Yahoo Finance
06
news briefs
July 11 - 17, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com
El Salado Estuary Announces Anniversary Celebration
Turtle Season Begins
T
he beginning of Banderas Bay’s annual sea turtle season was officially celebrated this past Friday at Puerto Vallarta’s popular Holi Beach, where 40 nests have already been established. A small ceremony was presided by Rohini Velasco, president of Asociacion de Conservacion de Especies Maravillosas de Bahia de Banderas (Association for the Conservation of Precious Species in Banderas Bay) and Helios Hernandez Hurtado of Puerto Vallarta’s Environmental Department. Thousands of Pacific ridley sea turtles complete their reproductive cycle by migrating to the warm waters of Banderas Bay every year, where they bury their eggs in the sand and returning to sea. Once they are born, the hatchlings instinctively know how to find their way back to the ocean. To ensure that this rite of passage goes on undisturbed, government agencies along with many oceanfront hotels set up special safe areas where eggs are protected and monitored. Sea turtle season begins in June and continues thru December, annually. Sharing the beach with these ancient creatures can be tricky. Public officials recommend that you stay away from sea turtles as they reach the beach in search of a safe place to bury their eggs. Since stealing the eggs is a federal crime and it is in our best interest to protect our environment, please report a turtle sighting by calling 911. • Tribuna de la Bahia
P
uerto Vallarta’s El Salado Estuary is celebrating their 19th anniversary with a special event, to take place on Saturday, July 27, 9 am - 2 pm. The celebration will feature a perfect opportunity to visit this unique ecological habitat, located within the city (along Fco. Medina Ascencio Ave., between Sam’s and Marina Vallarta). There will be free tours of the estuary, raffles and activities for the entire family. In order to participate in the tours, organizers are requesting advanced reservations by visiting their official website, www.aventurateporelsalado.com, in Spanish. Information is also available by calling (322) 201-7361. • PO
City Hall to Install Elevator for Handicap Access
E Members of the National Guard Arrive in Puerto Vallarta
M
embers of Mexico’s National Guard arrived in Puerto Vallarta this past Tuesday in coordination with federal and local authorities to make Puerto Vallarta a safer place for residents and visitors during the next five years. This is part of a nationwide initiative recently set in motion by President of Mexico, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, to increase security and decrease crime rates throughout the country. In a press conference, Jalisco Governor, Enrique Alfaro Ramirez, announced that 410 members of the National Guard are now stationed in Puerto Vallarta. The newly-formed National Guard became operational on June 30, with a nation-wide deployment of 70,000 members. It is expected that this number will increase to 120,000 members by 2021, and to 150,000 by 2023. Their primary goals are to prevent delinquency, preserve public security and combat against delinquency in the whole country. Their first move in Puerto Vallarta will be to contact community leaders throughout the city to better understand each neighborhood’s security challenges and concerns. • PO
ven though Puerto Vallarta’s city hall building is only two stories tall, second-story access has been a challenging process for wheelchair users. This could change by year’s end, according to an initiative put forth by City Council member, Saul Lopez Orozco, who oversees sports-related activities for the municipality. “We have monthly meetings attended by wheelchair-using athletes and we’ve had to carry them upstairs,” he commented. The intention is to install an elevator without altering the structure of the building. “A previous initiative had been submitted but it was not followed up. This time around, I’ve had meetings with advisors to Puerto Vallarta Mayor,
Arturo Davalos Peña, as well as members of the Public Works Department to determine the project’s ideal location.” • Tribuna de la Bahía
local voices
07
Medical Matters Pam Thompson
pamela@healthcareresourcespv.com
Pamela Thompson operates HealthCare Resources Puerto Vallarta, a multi-faceted, independent, resource network that addresses all things related to your health and well-being. They offer assistance to help find a physician, hospital and diagnostic service for any healthcare needs.
Shoulder Pain
W
e receive a lot of requests for appointments from folks with shoulder pain. Some have had it for years, some have just begun with it and sometimes due to an injury. I know how much it hurts if I ‘sleep wrong’ and wake up with a stiff shoulder so I can’t imagine having this type of pain all the time. Ouch! So, I asked our orthopedic, Dr. Joel Galindo (who by the way, is bilingual) a few questions about shoulder pain and here is what he has to say: What is the most common type of shoulder injury? It depends on the patient’s age. Before the age of 40, the most common cause of shoulder pain is shoulder instability, and after the age of 40 the most common cause is rotator cuff pathology. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint, keeping the head of the upper arm bone firmly within the shallow socket of the shoulder. A rotator cuff injury can cause a dull ache in the shoulder, which often worsens when you try to sleep on the involved side. Is surgery always the only answer? Are there other treatments? It really depends on the patient’s diagnosis. Most of the time surgery is—and should be—the last resort. Many patients do well with physical therapy (which should be prescribed by an orthopedic surgeon). There are other treatment options such as cortisone shots to the shoulder (to decrease pain and inflammation) or orthobiologics (stem cells and platelet-rich
plasma). It is important that patients understand that even though there are a lot of articles stating that orthobiologics are like “the fountain of youth,” the truth is that orthobiologics are still experimental. For the best diagnosis studies for shoulders, ultrasound vs. X-ray vs. MRI. Which one is best and why? It really depends on what the doctor is looking for. If the diagnostic suspicion is shoulder arthritis then a shoulder X-ray is more than enough. If the suspicion is for a rotator cuff tear, an ultrasound or MRI can be ordered. For instability cases, the best diagnostic tool is an MR arthrogram (or an MRI if the arthrogram is not available), but a CT scan may be ordered as well for surgical planning. Because we receive so many requests for consults for shoulder pain, we will be adding yet another screening clinic to our monthly clinics. A Shoulder Clinic! As with the other monthly clinics that we do, this will be a screening clinic, offered at a discounted price to include a discounted price on an X-ray. Watch for announcements of this clinic in our newsletters and on Facebook. Dr. Joel Galindo is a board-certified, bilingual orthopedic surgeon who specializes in sports medicine as well. For an appointment with him, just email me! Where in the world is the rain? Sunday night there was one big one but I cannot remember such a small amount of rain this time of year in ages. Where are the downpours, gully washers? Bring them on! We need them! Here’s to a revitalizing week!
July 11 - 17, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com
¡Pica! Spicy!
Mexico’s Fascination With Spicy Candy By Paco Ojeda
T
he whole world knows Mexico has an obsession with these small, hot-tasting pods we call chiles and that many of our traditional dishes contain them. And you know what? They are right! We use chiles even in our candy! Wander into a traditional candy store in town, or the candy aisle at any of the local supermarkets, and you will find a surprising variety of sweets with all kinds of textures and exquisite flavors. Upon close inspection, however, interspersed with all those wonderful milk-based sweets you know and probably enjoy, you will find other “sweets” that aren’t sweet at all. In fact, their flavor can be better described as sweet, sour and spicy all at once, something that Mexican nationals adore, but for many foreigners is usually either love at first sight or utter rejection. Putting nutritional value, caloric intake and other nutritional considerations aside,
Tamarind Pods let’s dive into the spicy world of Mexican candy. Mexico’s love affair with all things spicy predates the Spanish Conquest—we touched base on this notion in last week’s article about chocolate. In fact, chiles are one of the oldest cultivated crops in the Americas. Having originated
in Mexico, chiles were frequently added to sauces and the hot, cocoa-based beverage we now know as hot chocolate. While sugar was not used prior to the arrival of Spanish conquistadors—they introduced sugar from the Caribbean—it is well documented that Mexican natives kept bees and
used their honey to sweeten their food. Have you noticed those sweet amaranth seed candy squares neatly wrapped in cellophane at the supermarket? They are alegrías, a treat of amaranth seed and honey that has remained unchanged since Pre-Columbian times, and have been known as such since the 16th Century. To complete this picture, we are missing an essential ingredient, one for which we also owe Spanish conquistadors bucketloads of gratitude: tamarind. Tamarindus indica, or tamarind, is an odd bird. African in origin, tamarind is a type of tree that produces pod-like fruit that is also a legume. Its pulp has
a very potent flavor, sweet but tart, and sometimes very sour. It takes decades to grow and often requires as much as 100 years to cultivate. If you have walked the Rio Cuale bridge along Ignacio Vallarta St., you have walked past several tamarind trees and may not even be aware of it. To understand how tamarind made it to Mexico, let alone Puerto Vallarta, we must turn back to to the Spanish Conquest. Just as Christopher Columbus was keeping busy claiming Mexico (New Spain, actually) as a Spanish colony, King Ferdinand II of Aragon and Queen Isabella I of Castille, were engaged in the Reconquista, a 1492 quest
culture
09
to expand their Christian kingdom. At the time, there was a rather large Moorish and Jewish population living in Southern Spain that included some of the best doctors, scientists, architects and mathematicians. Given the choice of fleeing to Africa or coming to New Spain, many—including an agronomist or two in tow—chose the new world. They brought tamarind seeds along with them, and the trees thrived in Mexico’s tropical weather. By the end of the 16th Century, tamarind was a staple in Mexico’s diet. At this point, we could dive into the wonderful enhancement tamarind has become to a huge variety of sauces for chicken, pork and fish; savory recipes, or even as a meat tenderizer, but we will continue along the candy aisle.
Dive In! The Chili is Fine!
Are you are ready to dive into the unique world of Mexico’s world of sweet and spicy flavors? Here are a few suggestions: If you haven’t done so, begin by acquainting yourself with the flavor of sweetened tamarind by purchasing a tamarind paleta, or ice pop. To know where to find one, please turn to our article on La Michoacana on the following page. Alternatively, go for an agua de tamarindo at your favorite taco stand (above). Aguas frescas, (literally “fresh waters”) are non-alcoholic beverages prepared by mixing blended fruits with sugar-sweetened water. They are deliciously refreshing, particularly this time of year! To begin your adventure into the land of algo picante, or “something spicy,” and if you are feeling particularly festive, order a tamarind margarita at your favorite local bar or restaurant. They are usually served with a combination of powdered chili, salt and sugar on the glass rim instead of plain salt. Again, you will either love or hate the combination, but I can assure
you that by the second cocktail, you may not even feel that concerned after all. The powder sometimes used by bartenders in margarita cocktails is Tajin, a chile-lime salt that makes everything taste better, especially ripe fruit. A bit of Tajin sprinkled over sliced watermelon goes a long way in enhancing the fruit’s sweet flavor. It is very inexpensive and can be found at local supermarkets and convenience stores. For more on Tajin, google “Tajin is a Lifestyle,” an excellent article written by Daniela Galarza for The New York Times, published June 10, 2019. If you have so far enjoyed your chili trials, it’s time to dive deeper into the pool and try some candies. They are inexpensive enough that you can purchase a small package and simply try its flavor. Some of my favorites include Pelon Pelo Rico, a tamarind paste that you squeeze out of a small container. Another one is Pulparindo (left page). The description on the packaging (hot and salted tamarind pulp candy) may seem like a misnomer, but that’s exactly what it is! You may find many other options on the candy aisles at local supermarkets. And if decide to shop at a traditional Mexican candy store (there are several near the Rio Cuale in the El Centro side) shopkeepers will most likely help you pick something not too spicy for you to try at first.
Finally, A Dare!
You won’t believe your own facial expressions as you try spicy Mexican candies for the first time unless a kind friend takes a photo of you as your taste buds begin taking in the sweet and spicy flavors! Have fun with it! And if you end up with some awesome mugshots, please share them with us by emailing editor@vallartatribune and we’ll feature them on the online version of this article!
July 11 - 17, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com
La Michoacana
Mexico’s Favorite Frozen Treat By Paco Ojeda
T
hey are as ubiquitous throughout Mexico and parts of the US as Burger King. A sight of them from across the street on a sunny day spurs feelings of having reached an oasis in the middle of the dessert. They all look alike and yet are somewhat different from one another. And they all offer something in common: one of Mexico’s favorite, time-honored year-around sweet treats. We are, of course, talking about paletas, or ice pops, and La Michoacana, the amazing conglomerate of family-owned, mostly non-franchised shops that sell them. Known in the US and Canada as popsicles due to the popularity of the eponymous trade brand, paletas are water or milk-based frozen snacks on a stick, available in a multitude of flavors. While their true origin is uncertain, it is well documented that California-based Francis William Epperson, a lemonade salesman, popularized them after patenting the concept of “frozen ice on a stick” in 1923. Although the connection with Mexico is also uncertain, one of the prevailing stories describes a man by the name of Ignacio Alcazar, who after a trip to the US in the early 1940s, returned to his home town of Tocumbo—a small farming community in the state of Michoacan—with the idea of manufacturing so-called paletas using locally grown fruit. Other versions claim that Alcazar was employed by Rafael Malfavon Villanueva, who had started a lime ice pop business in said town. Having stolen a considerable amount of pesos from his employer, Alcazar ran away
to Mexico City where he began opening paleterías, or ice pop shops, of his own. Regardless, the paleta business began flourishing under the name La Michoacana in both locations. Little by little, family members of the shop owners began learning the trade and opening La Michoacana shops throughout Mexico using standardized logos and signage. However, although the shops shared the name, they were hardly a franchise. There was no headquarters or central accounting, nor strategic development plans. In addition, copyright and trademark procedures had not been firmly established in Mexico at the time. Since most of the shop owners had familial ties, they shared trade secrets and lent each other money when times were tough. There have been several efforts to bring La Michoacana shops under a single franchise, but most have been unsuccessful. Nowadays, there are way too many trademark applications related to the brand for the law system to favor any single one. And although there are a handful of “important-looking”
websites with the Michoacana name, offering franchise opportunities, most operate on their own terms, honoring the look and feel of the other shops. Easily identifiable by their logo, most La Michoacana shops offer not only ice pops, but also ice cream in many different flavors, along with aguas frescas. Concerned about their health, wary foreigners can shop for their favorite flavors trusting that the products are prepared and shops maintained with the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene. Today, a town in Mexico has to be truly small for it not to have at least one La Michoacana shop. In Tocumbo, Michoacan, the ice pop tradition continues with an annual ice pop fair celebrated December 25-30 since 1989. Attendees can enjoy over 50 different flavors, from the traditional lime strawberry and vanilla to the exotic alcoholic varieties prepared with mezcal, tequila and beer. By the way, you know you’ve reached the town thanks to the enormous and welcoming ice pop monument at its entrance.
10
local voices
Famous Mosaics —Tokyo Disney Theme Parks
By Emily Murray This summer the Tile Park is taking the show on the road! We’re paying a virtual visit to the most famous mosaics of the world... from China to Spain to the US... tile parks, record-breaking installations, ancient murals, points of interest and so much more. Join us!
T
hese days there are very few places that remain untouched by the Disney franchise. Mickey even has a home in Tokyo! Tokyo Disney and DisneySea are side-by-side theme parks where you’ll find a surprising number of beautiful mosaic contributions in each, from lobby art to abstract standalone sculptures.
One artist’s expression is never quite the same as another’s. Everyone has their own point of view. This is true for any artistic medium. So one neat thing about having mosaics both in both parks is this differentiation of expression. Just as two painters will do two completely different things with the
same paint, the huge differences in each project are fun to check out side by side. Cinderella’s Castle in Tokyo Disneyland This is an almost exact copy of Cinderella’s Castle at Magic Kingdom in Florida, the main difference being the exterior paint job. As in all the other Disney theme parks, this gorgeous castle acts as a backdrop/main stage for all the important happenings and promotions in the park. A little prince or princess’ dream come true, a visit to Tokyo Disney is centered on wonder, discovery, and fun. Every day is worthy of fireworks—sounds a little like Puerto Vallarta. The coloring and styling of the Cinderella pieces look exactly like stills from any Cinderella movie, and the detail they were able to achieve in some cases is outstanding.
July 11 - 17, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com
Tokyo DisneySea The lay of the DisneySea land involves seven themed ports of call, each telling a different perspective on sea life. We’ve got Mediterranean Harbor, Mysterious Island, Mermaid Lagoon, Arabian Coast, Lost River Delta, Port Discovery and American Waterfront. All ages are welcome at Tokyo DisneySea, but it was actually designed to appeal to a grown-up audience. For instance, the park has a nice selection of high-end restaurants that speak to more sophisticated palettes. Oh, and booze. Tokyo Disneyland doesn’t have any, but DisneySea is where you can imbibe to your heart’s content. The mosaics found here are much more organic, more “fantasy” than the Cinderella mosaics. Here, sea glass coloring and flowing shapes call to mind rolling waves. Seashells and pearls, embedded into borders and along walkways, offer texture and interest to already fanciful creations.
The art of mosaic is special for a lot of reasons, but one of them is that it’s truly approachable. Almost anyone can do it. It’s an art form that can be learned in mere seconds and can take an entire lifetime to master. When presented with two collections of such different appeal that you need a double-take to even notice they’re both mosaic, you can zero in on their unique technique. The attention to detail that makes this one so beachy and that one so vintage Disney. These resulting sculptures of massive scale are certainly impressive. But it’s equally amazing that every piece, every minute detail, was attended to by and individual. Every tile is set the way it is because someone put it there, and each contributes to the whole, the collective vision of the group. The word “fantastical” comes to mind. A word that would pretty well describe the world of Disney itself. Those Imagineers really know how to invite wonder.
Would you like a Bank that adapts to your needs
?
Discover all the options that INTERCAM offers you: Trust | Insurance | Personal Loans | Mutual Funds Foreign Exchange | ATM network | Private Banking and much more...
Contact our offices: Marina Office: +52 (322) 209 0696 | Downtown Office: +52 (322) 223 3080 Mega Flamingos Office: +52 (329) 29 661 63 | Sayulita Office: +52 (329) 29 88 921 Find terms and conditions at intercam.com.mx
9
8
PITILLAL
1
az Ord Díaz tavo port Gus l Air Lic. nationa r Inte
6
7
5 3
RIO AMECA
STATE OF NAYARIT
VIE
TOM
NU
EV
OV AL
LA
RTA
S ATE
26
R
A VALL
CA
DE
GRAND MAYAN PARADISE VILLAGE MEZCALES OCCIDENTAL NUEVO VALLARTA 5 HARD ROCK HOTEL GRAND VELAS RIVIERA NAYARIT DREAMS VILLAMAGNA HOTEL MARIVAL 6 RIU JALISCO 4 ACQUA FLAMINGOS RUI PALACE PACIFICO FLAMINGOS VILLA DEL PALMAR FLAMINGOS 4 VILLA LA ESTANCIA 25 4 ROYAL DECAMERON 24 BUCERIAS 23 PUNTA ESMERALDA B NAYAR 29 1 VILLA AMORE DEL MAR 5
7
INA MAR
BAY
6
CA
2
1
BO
VIDANTA
7
27
R B CLU ESTIN CE A W L O TA THE AN PA SALAD LLAR A Y MA A EL TO V IOTT R Y R PLA PUE AR LIA GNA M ME A ND SAM GRA W
8
1
TO SAYULITA
P 22
PLAYA LA MANZANILLA W PUNTA MITA Agustin Flores Contreras Municipal Stadium
GRAND PALLADIUM VALLARTA HOTEL LA QUINTA DEL SOL
123
2nd Annual Reader’s Choice Awards
1000’s of votes for the
‘best of everything’
Restaurants
Best Hotels
Best Salon
Best
Dentist
FRANCISC
O VILLA
PARA
ST. REGIS PUNTA MITA
SHERATON BUGAMBILLIAS
3
ISLAS MARIETAS
in Puerto Vallarta, Banderas Bay and Riviera Nayarit Best
2
MESON DE MITA PUNTA MITA FOUR SEASONS
Best
Happy Hour
All the results are now online at: www.vallartatribune.com/best-of-banderas-bay-2019/
TOWNS & COLONIAS BEACHES
RESORTS MALECON SHOPPING/ARTWALK
BY SEA
LAND & AIR
1. MARINA RIVIERA NAYARIT 2. NUEVO RIVIERA NAYARIT 3. MARINA VALLARTA MARINA 4. CRUISE SHIP TERMINAL 5. LOS MUERTOS PIER/ WATER TAXIS
1. CENTRAL BUS STATION 2. VERSALLES BUS STATION 3. OLD TOWN BUS STATION 4. BUCERIAS BUS STATION 5. INT’L AIRPORT - PVR
SHO
2
1. GA 2. WA 3. CO 4. LA 5. PLA 6. ME 7. WA
BUENOS AIRES
8 9
FLUVIAL
3
PUERTO VALLARTA
5 DE DICIEMBRE
2
VERSALLES
28
CENTRO
12 13
EL R O
SITA
11
GRINGO GULTCH CASA KIMBERLY HACIENDA SAN ANGEL AMAPAS
14
15
CASA CUPOLA RESORTS BY PINNACLE
EL NOGALITO
CONCHAS CHINAS
ES PA AR &S S M INA RT TRE B REG RESO
PLA YA L O SAN S ARC VILL P A M LAYA EMP MAR OS ERC LO ERA INO EDE S M DOR U TRO S PETI ERTO A PI T H S VALALMAR CAN H OTEL PLA LAR RE OTE YA C HYA TT Z ONC LI TA SH SORT L IVA HA NDO OR GRA CO PUERT CASA S CHIN MAR ES ND STA O VA KAR AS F S GAR PLAY IESTA UR RE LLARTMA ZA B A PU AME SOR A LA NTA RIC T HOT NCA R NEGR AN EL M ESO A OUS RT AII
RTA
HOTEL ZONE
NES MARO GRAND A CA PLAY VENTURA E A S BUEN PREMIER AMBILLIA VILLA ATON BUG SHER S ET SECR AMBER N OW S OL O DEL CANT ZA A E T P L C A N OS I SUNS A PEL PLAZ LES U RTA LOS T LY VALLA D FRIEN CAPE AR SUNS DEL PALM NA R IC A VILLA A A ME FIEST HOLI AL RA A PLAY N KRYSTNAVENTU RESORT HILTOENDA BUE E GOLDEN A D IS HACI N PAR E CLUB CROW PARADIS N C R OW
4
4
5 DE DECIMBRE
5
HOT
2
STATE OF JALISCO
BUENAS ARIES
10
MISMALOYA
30
TO EL TUITO
BARCELO
LOS ARCOS
COLOMITOS LA TROVA CASITAS MARAIKA HOTELITO MIO
PUERTO VALLARTA 20
LAS ANIMAS 17
XINALANI RETREAT
QUIMIXTO
MAJAHUITAS MAJAHUITAS RESORT
3
21
BOCA DE TO
HOTEL LAGUNITA
16 11
12
AGUAY
PALAPA MARACUY 19 15
5 DE DICIEMBRE
18
13
5 DE DECIMBRE
CENTRO
OPPING
GOLFING
POINTS OF INTEREST
ALERIAS VALLARTA ALMART/SAMS CLUB OSTCO ISLA AZA CARACOL EGA/ LA COMER BUCERIAS ALMART NUEVO VALLARTA
1. PACIFICO GOLF COURSE 2. BAHIA GOLF COURSE 3. LITIBU GOLF COURSE 4. FLAMINGOS GOLF COURSE 5. EL TIGRE GOLF COURSE 6. & 7 VIDANTA 8. MARINA VALLARTA 9. VISTA VALLARTA
1. TURTLE RESCUE CAMP 2. WHALE OF A TALE HOLE 3. PLAYA ESCONDIDO 4. KISSING BRIDGE 5. EL CORA CROCODILE SANCTUARY 6. PUERTO VALLARTA SIGN 7. ESTERO EL SALADO 8. PITILLAL PLAZA
‘OLD TOWN’
9. 5 DE DEC. CEMETARY 10. MIRADOR CERRO DE LA CRUZ 11. MALECON 12. VIRGIN DE LA GUADALUPE CHURCH 13. LOS ARCOS AMPITHEATRE 14. ISLA CUALE 15. LAZARO CARDENAS PARK 15. OLAS ALTAS FARMERS MARKET
16. HIDALGO PARK 17. THREE HENS MARKET 18. MARSOL MARKET 19. MUNICIPAL MARKET 20. EMILIANO ZAPATA MARKET 21. CUALE CULTRAL CENTER 22. 5 DE DEC MARKET 23. HUANACAXLE MERCADO
5
24. FOREVER SPRING MARKET 25. BUCERIAS ARTWALK 26. RIVIERA FARMERS MARKET 27. MARINA ARTISAN MARKET 28. MOVIE + PICNIC 29. RED CROSS 30. LOS ARCOS NATIONAL PARK
www.vallartatribune.com
BANDERAS BAY SHOPPING AND SERVICES Thinking about selling your property? Virtual tour Market analysis of your property Adverrsing on mullple plaaorms Alfredo Herrera
Call: 322 142 6296 Email: alfredoh@tropicasa.com
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
www.vallartatribune.com MURPHY’S IRISH PUB
Welcome Home
Located on the Historic Malecon across from the lighthouse statue (El Faro) - beautiful sunset views every night! Delicious traditional pub menu. Live Rock Music - Thurs - Sat @10:30pm Watch all sports w 2 satellites. Pool Table. Happy Hour Daily 3 to 6 pm. 2 x 1 Corona or Pacifico. 50 pesos Well Drinks.
484 Morelos - 2nd floor - Centro Vallarta Open daily 11 am
Sheryl Novak
Murphys Puerto Vallarta
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.
Yawning Under an Awning, Part 1
A
s it gets hotter and more humid here in Banderas Bay, we get more requests for solutions that help keep things cooler. People are looking for alternatives to running their air conditioning units full tilt both to save money and to do something better for the environment. One solution I have already written about is window tinting. Another option is installing an awning. There are many benefits to adding an awning to your home in Mexico. Since awnings keep direct sunlight away from your windows, they lower the temperature inside your home. As a result, you should use your air conditioning and fans less and therefore (hopefully) lower your electricity bills. Keeping direct sunlight off your sofa or sectional and other materials will also help keep the colors from fading. In addition to a reduction of up to 25% on your electricity bill, according to the EPA, you will also get a quick return on investment by not having to replace or recover your furniture as quickly. I spoke with Juan Carlos Sanchez, who owns an awning business in the Banderas Bay to find out more. He told me that “in addition to reducing energy costs, awnings add beauty and often more market value to your home. Under some awnings it can get up to 20 degrees cooler and depending on the material used, they can block 90 percent of harmful rays.” There are three categories
of awnings: fixed, retractable, and portable. Fixed and retractable awnings are both permanently mounted to the exterior wall or roof above the gutter. Unlike retractable kinds, fixed awnings are stationary. Retractable awnings give you the option of shade for relief from a little rain or intense sun. You can retract them when preferred. Portable awnings are temporary options. They are not generally well-anchored and therefore are less stable than the other options. Fixed awnings are available with a straight arm or an invisible arm. A straight arm is visible and on the sides of the structure. The arms are usually aluminum and help project the cover of the awning outwards from the wall of the home. Invisible arms support the cover of the awning, so you do not see them unless you are underneath the cover. Retractable awnings are available as a vertical blind for the outside of your house. Alternatively, you can opt for a retractable awning that functions as a temporary roof over a terrace or outdoor living area. Both varieties are available with either a manual cranking or motorized mechanism. Most prefer a motorized awning option, and after-sales research shows that customers who have purchased them report a higher satisfaction level. They are more convenient, particularly for those of us who are getting older and have less muscle strength in our arms. In this article, I covered the benefits and different
types of awnings. Next week, we will cover which colors are best, how much awnings cost and how long you can expect them to last.
Interested in an awning? Contact me at sa.novak@ solutionsmexico.com and I will connect you with some companies in the area.
PINNACLE RESIDENCES 402 2 bed, 2 bath, 1,028 sq.ft. $499,000 USD
P
erfectly placed on the hill adjoining Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone sits Residences by Pinnacle. This comfortable two bed, two bath condo enjoys city and bay views, with spectacular indoor-outdoor living. Kitchen features granite countertops, bar seating both indoor and outdoor, as well as a kitchen island and plenty of top-quality cabinets. Perfect layout for entertaining, with wideopen terrace, stainless grill and outdoor seating for eight. Bedrooms are restful retreats offering supreme tranquility in the back bedroom, and
flexible, open style layout in the front bedroom. Kitchen equipment and linens comply with Pinnacle’s strict quality guidelines. Great rental portfolio. The condo is part of Pinnacle’s rental pool, showings in between renters only. Contact information BOARDWALK REALTY OF: 322 224 0014/ 322 223 0001 john@boardwalkrealtypv.com https://boardwalkrealtypv. idxbroker.com/idx/details/ listing/a650/14755/220-Pulpito-402-Centro-South-Jalisco-14755
Tel. (322) 222 2675, (322) 222 5402, w Celular: 322 175 0412 mundodeazulejos@hotmail.com www.talavera-tile.com
local voices
16
Vanishing World/ Vanishing Home John Warren
john3984@me.com
John Warren is in charge of publicity for the International Friendship Club in Puerto Vallarta (IFC). During the summer, he writes about traveling while also raising environmental awareness.
Peanut Butter and Jellyfish Sandwiches
O
ne of the reasons that “sportsmen” come to Puerto Vallarta is for the deep-sea fishing. But will we never learn? How long will it be before we are eating peanut butter and jellyfish sandwiches instead of the tuna, marlin and other game fish we enjoy? According to the website Fishing Booker, “Puerto Vallarta fishing is the strongest contender for the best in the whole of Mexico’s Pacific. With its three legendary hotspots and its prolific end-ofthe-year marlin seasons, PV never fails to deliver—even to the most demanding of anglers. Banderas Bay is home to light tackle legends such as skipjack, mackerel, mahi-mahi, amberjack, snapper, and—of course—the iconic roosterfish. Looking for something bigger? There are a host of destinations offshore that have earned notoriety all over the world as places where records can be made, and broken. The Marietas Islands, 18 miles from Marina Vallarta and El Morro, a group of rock pinnacles 24 miles west of the Marina, are easily accessible on an eight-hour trip. These are home to a great variety of pelagic fish, including marlin, sailfish, tuna, and wahoo.
But that’s not all. Puerto Vallarta is one of the best places in the world to catch huge yellowfin tuna, as well as blue, black, and striped marlin (not to mention the sailfish).” Sounds like a paradise for fisherpeople! But was the fishing even better in the past? How much has changed in the catches from Puerto Vallarta over the years? Unfortunately, I have no idea, but I can tell you what has happened over at Key West, Florida, which has a sports-fishing history that goes back longer than ours and could portend the future locally. In Key West, tour boats have been taking fishing enthusiasts out for a day for generations. When they return to the dock, the catch is hung on the “hanging board” and photographs are taken of the day’s catch (bottom left). This photo comes from a day’s outing in1958. Notice that the fish on the far left is bigger than the guy who caught it. Is it that “good” in Puerto Vallarta today? Charter companies in Key West have been operating for over 60 years. Many of the photos of the daily catches were stored in Key West’s Monroe County Library. A dozen years ago, they were found by Loren McClechan when, as a grad student, she used them to track the decline in the size of the catches over time. Loren, according to her website, is “a marine ecologist interested
in long term changes to marine animal populations. My research focuses on historical ecology and the applied use of baselines, fisheries conservation, and marine extinction risk and consequences. I aim to quantify ecological change and identify conservation success over centuries and across large geographic areas in order to halt declines and promote recovery of marine animals and ecosystems.” “After checking and measuring 1,275 different trophy fish in the photos, Lorne found that in the 1950s, the biggest fish were typically over six feet long. By the time we get to 2007 when Loren bought a ticket on a deep-sea day cruise and snapped this picture (bottom right). “The biggest fish were averaging only a foot, or maybe a little over. That’s a tremendous change. She figured the average prizewinner dropped from nearly 44 pounds to a measly five pounds—an 88 percent drop. “Is this what we can expect in Puerto Vallarta? Daniel Pauly, a professor at the University of British Columbia, has noticed that North Americans are now consuming more small fish today than we did 50 years ago. Cod, swordfish, and tuna are gradually giving way to herring, sardines, and anchovies. He says, “We are eating the bait and moving on to jellyfish and plankton.” Will kids soon be giving up tuna fish sandwiches for jellyfish sandwiches? Don’t bet against it! Sounds crazy, I know, but then there’s this story about the cannonball jellyfish (Stomolophus meleagris) found off Florida in the Gulf of Mexico. It is now being harvested for human consumption. US fisheries are catching the jellyfish and exporting them to Asia. In the Dallas aquarium, they are feeding real jellyfish peanut butter, and the jellies seem to like it. Puerto Vallarta may soon be facing the day when there are no seared tuna steaks available locally, having to settle for peanut butter and jellyfish sandwiches instead.
July 11 - 17, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com
Busing Banderas Bay Bruce Howells
busbanderasbay@gmail.com
Bruce is a retired Canadian, who along with his wife Velma, took a “mulligan” on life, escaped the cold of Canada and settled in the Vallarta area. Fulfilling a retirement dream of not driving anymore, Bruce uses public transportation to tour the bay and share his tales. Tips and itineraries welcome.
Free From Sciatic Pain
I
n March, I published an article about my efforts to banish my back pain caused by the sciatic nerves. I was tired of constant back and leg pain so decided on a stem cell and ozone therapy treatment available in Vallarta by Dr. Jose Manuel Hernandez. The treatment has an eighty percent success rate, with additional treatment available if required for the less fortunate twenty percent who still experience pain after the treatment. Initially, I was pain-free for several weeks after the surgery. But gradually, the pain returned, a nearly constant pain that was always there. I underwent an additional four weekly ozone injections in my buttocks as well as injections of platelets from my blood during the visits. Every week, I felt a little better, but there was still pain. The ozone acts as an anti-inflammatory, producing a micro-oxidative stimulus that induces auto-repair, modulating the immune system while the blood platelets release growth factors that attract stem cells to initiate healing processes. Doctor Hernandez was not about to settle for “almost better.” With much poking and prodding and stretching, the doctor identified my piriformis muscle and sacroiliac joint as the possible culprits. The piriformis muscle runs from the base of the tailbone, across the buttocks and across the sciatic nerves. Stretching of the piriformis muscle was an option, and there was an endless supply of exercises on YouTube. With continued weekly ozone injections (four) into my piriformis muscle and the exercises, I continued to feel better, but there was still some pain and discomfort. The exercises helped and felt good. Therefore, I decided to increase my exercises and do three reps a day. I proudly told my doctor how much I was exercising, but the pain still persisted. With a smile, he told me to rest a few days, and then exercise no more than five times a
week. Following the doctors’ advice, I had several pain free weeks over the past months, and it always comes as a surprise when I realize “I’ve had no pain today, never even thought about it.” Thank you, Dr. Jose Manuel Hernandez, and your staff, for your attention, care, and your never-quit attitude. Dr. Hernandez is located in the Vallarta Medical Center, next to Plaza Caracol, and is assisted in his daily work by Ana Rodriguez, a psychologist also trained in ozone therapies. Luisa Benitez, an anesthesiologist, assists in the surgery and some follow up office procedures. As is to be expected, Dr. Hernandez and his staff like getting paid, so there was an additional charge for the follow-up procedures, but, to be pain-free after seven months was worth the additional cost. Time will tell if I experience sciatic pain in the future. One of the issues I contended with was the location of my pain: in my buttocks. I was always asking my wife for a bum rub. Bless her heart, she never refused. Although, to be honest, some of the rubs were very quick and short. After many months and visits, when it came time to say “thank you,” I included a hug for the doctor as I skipped out the office, pain-free. With the hot humid weather finally arriving, I have convinced my wife it is too hot to dance, so we will wait for the cooler weather to see if Dr. Hernandez performed a true, dance-allowing miracle. I couldn’t before the treatments, but with modern medicine, I tell my wife there is always hope, once the weather chills a little.
local voices
17
Life in the Slow Lane
July 11 - 17, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com
Movement as Medicine
Kelly Wilson
By Via Anderson
mybucerias404@gmail.com
yogawithvia@gmail.com
Upon retiring in Ontario, Kelly and her husband finally arrived in Puerto Vallarta—via a one-way ticket during the summer of 2017—where they now call Bucerias home. As avid adventurers, they enjoy exploring the entire Banderas Bay area. Kelly owns an online career coaching business and spends time volunteering for various local organizations.
Via Anderson, E-RYT, is a Yoga and movement coach and teaches the Intelligent Movement Forever system of healthy movement in a weekly online class, in private sessions, and at Yoga Vallarta during the high season. She is the author of How to Move Without Pain: A Compendium of Intelligent Movement, to be released in 2019.
What to Do?
9 Easy Ways to Improve Your Mobility and Change Your Life
P
eople ask us what we do here to fill our time. I’m not really keen on the question, mostly because I’m a bit embarrassed of the answer: “Umm, nothing much.” I’m sure we must do something though. Before we know it, it’s time to go to bed at the end of each day. I’m trying to come up with a better answer. Here goes: Upon waking, we review anything on our day’s agenda and incorporate that into our master plan, including what food we’ll need to purchase. Do we need groceries? Probably. We tend to pick up items on a daily basis. With so much fresh produce and seafood available, we just buy ingredients for whatever our dinner meal will be that evening. Appointments are scarce, except for any scheduled chiropractor or dentist visits. Those take up about two time slots per month. So, back to planning the day. Food rules a lot of our decisions. Shall we have breakfast at home, or eat out? A fridge devoid of milk will often be the deciding factor, even though we are fully aware that a fine (free) breakfast could be concocted without a splash of milk. We clean ourselves up and get out on the golf cart to one of our many favourite desayuno destinations. Linger over coffee. A little people watching. See the dogs playing on the street, or the iguana high up in that tree right there. Plan what’s next. Want to take a drive somewhere, discover an area we’ve not been to, stop for lunch? The air-conditioned car is a reprieve from the summer heat. If not cooling off in the car, we’re standing in the pool for long periods of time, reading, eating lunch, doing a crossword, each one of us refilling beverages or snacks while out answering nature. Soon it’s time to cook
dinner, followed by Netflix and bedtime. This all may sound a bit dull. I want you to know, I understand the importance of lifelong learning —keeping the brain active once one retires. I do think “scientifically,” usually while in the pool. I float around and observe water displacement. It changes slightly depending on whether I inhale or exhale. Other times I turn my mind to myrmecology. As I’m sure you know, that is the study of ants. While cooling off in the pool I watch them marching. Not two-by-two, by the way, but single file. Each one follows the exact path of the last one, up the wall, intent on getting somewhere important. Once they’ve reached the target stop, somewhere out of my view, they turn around and come back down, again, using the one path. This makes for curious and quick greeting gestures as they encounter the unending line of ants marching up. To my untrained eye, I’m sure they’re exchanging little hugs before continuing their work. These are crucial observations, I’m sure, I just haven’t figured out who wants to know about them, yet. Until family members and friends arrive next winter the two of us will comfortably hang out together, happily putting in yet another day of eating, exploring, swimming, and generally doing “nothing much.”
I
am often asked if I have a short list of top priority moves that I would recommend over all others. In this article, I have put together such a list. These moves do not need a gym or a class. You can do many of them anytime and anywhere. If they need props, I have indicated where you can get them. You may have to refer to this column’s archives to get a full description of the move. Do them all as a home practice or choose a few and make them a daily habit. Either way, your mobility will improve by leaps and bounds. 1. Naboso Technology insoles. Described 3/7/19. They are not a move by themselves. But if you make this small investment ($50) and use them often, they will change the way you move every
time you move. They will improve your posture, gait, and balance. Available at www.nabosotechnology.com. 2. Three-way ankle mobility stretch. Described 11/29/18. This move will improve the functionality of your knees, feet, and ankles. I recommend using a 6”x12” halfround foam roller. Available on amazon.com.mx or at my studio. 3. Heel lifts with or without a YTU therapy ball. Heel lifts are a simple movement to improve your balance and stretch your toes. Stand in good posture with a wall or another safe point nearby. Lift and lower both heels or alternate left and right. Add a challenge. Place a Yoga Tune Up therapy ball between your feet at floor level. Available on amazon.com.mx or at my studio. 4. Balancing on one foot. Described 11/15/19. Balancing on one foot will improve your balance. Start standing in good posture near a safe point. This move also helps maintain bone density in your hip (femur). 5. Static Back. Described 1/24/19. It requires a couch, a
chair, or a box to rest your knees and feet on while you lie on the floor. This is a great move to relieve lower back pain. Stay as long as you can, up to one hour. 6. Squat to sit, squat to pick up something. There are many ways to squat. I described a resting squat on 2/28/19 and a mini squat at a chair on 3/21/19. Squatting or partial squatting is a good habit. Think about dropping your buttocks behind you to sit on a chair or on the floor or to pick up something on the floor. This habit will save your lower back. And strengthen your core and quads. 7. Supine hypopressives. Described 2/14/19. You will have to check out the Vallarta Tribunes archives for directions. It involves a specific breathing pattern. Hypopressives strengthen your core and your pelvic floor. They also address prolapse and incontinence. 8. Prone chest lift. Described 6/8/19. A simple move that helps strengthen your upper back extensors. Strong back extensors help with posture and reduce your risk of falling. 9. Therapy Balls at your occipital ridge. Rest the base of your skull (occipital ridge) on a horizontal pair of YTU alpha therapy balls in a tote. Nod up and down. Then left and right. Take your time. Release the tension in your neck and shoulders. There you have it! Contact me if you have any questions or comments. Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for education and information only. It is not a substitute for a doctor’s opinion.
local voices
18
July 11 - 17, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com
Paradise and Parenting Leza Warkentin
mommyinmexico.wordpress.com
Leza is a nursery school teacher and preschool coordinator at the American School of Puerto Vallarta.
Pet Rescue
W
e found our sweet Lucy through an organization called MexPup. One of the group’s founders, Patty Marchak, heard that we were looking for a little dog to complete our family, and found us a little mixed beauty with a rescuer in Sayulita. Six months later, we found Max under our car: tiny, dirty, and trembling. I coaxed him out from under, scooped him up, and realized that I couldn’t just leave him behind. The entire family made a decision then and there, and he ended up with a safe place to live from that night on. We did the right thing in both cases. Both dogs needed a home and good care. Of course, they came with baggage. Lucy is terrified of loud noises like fireworks and thunder. She cowers when she senses we are angry, even though we have never laid a hand on her. She wasn’t patient with the children at first, expecting the same rough treatment that she had probably received in her previous life. Max wasn’t house trained. He initially refused to walk on a leash because he was so scared to be out on the street. He is aggressive with dogs he doesn’t know, adopting an “attack or be attacked” philosophy. He is afraid of car rides, and trembles and whines when we go somewhere in a vehicle. He fears most humans that he meets on the street. But our family is populated entirely by dog people. We all love dogs at least as much as humans, and then some. We loved these dogs from the moment they crept cautiously inside our home. The children were gentle and showed them that they had nothing to fear. We took them on short walks and stayed with them during those scary thunderstorms. We crossed the street when we saw other dogs coming. We fed them on a schedule so they knew they would eat every day. We let them come to us for pets and cuddles. If we had to leave them, we left them with people they knew and loved. They became family so quickly that we don’t remember a time they weren’t part of it, and they took on
roles that I truly believe were ones born of deep gratitude. Lucy spends most nights dozing on and off in between her customary security patrols around the house. If I ever have a bout of insomnia, I can count on hearing her padding around the house every couple of hours. checking in on every bedroom with a sleeping family member and then heading back to bed. Max is our comedic relief and our intermediary in teen communication. If my kids are having a surly kinda day, I adopt Max’s voice (deep and cartoony, naturally), and we have a chat that usually ends with everyone laughing and Max’s head tilted all the way to one side, clearly wondering what kind of cracked-up humans he’s landed himself with. Both dogs have been in our lives during some truly traumatic moments: the passing of dear friends, several fairly serious health crises, etc. And in all of my memories of grief, fear and pain, there’s a dog pressing his or her body against my lap, offering the kind of silent comfort only a compassionate friend can provide. When there’s a sick child, there’s a dog resting quietly beside them. When there are tears, there’s a friendly tongue attempting to wipe them away. When there are fears and insecurities, there’s a furry body, always offering protection regardless of the threat. When you rescue an animal, you are showing your kindness and compassion to a helpless creature who needs protection. You are quite possibility saving their lives. But, as our family found out, they will save you too, over and over again. You may rescue an animal from very dire circumstances, but I can guarantee they will rescue you in more ways than you could ever imagine. Visit www.spcapv.com for more information.
SPCAPV News URGENT: Flyers to VANCOUVER and EDMONTON needed!
S
ummertime in Puerto Vallarta has a different pace. We tend to see fewer tourists in town, and as such, there are less available flights heading up north. This is a challenging time for us, as we adopt most of our dogs to Canada and the US by relying on the amazing help of volunteers—tourists, actually—who are kind enough to take their flight back home bringing along a dog or two for us to their new home destination. Right now, WestJet has already started their heat embargo, which means they will not allow any pets
as cargo anymore until October. So we are urgently seeking Air Transat flyers to Vancouver and Edmonton who can help us take our dogs to their new families, who are already anxiously waiting for their new babies. We make it very easy for you. We have staff who will help you check the dogs in at the Puerto Vallarta airport, and you will meet up with a staff member at the arrival customs who will clear the dog. All it will take you is a little more time on both ends to help us. If you can help, please email us at spcapv@ gmail.com
Cuddle Time
If you are interested in visiting and giving our dogs some cuddles, walks or just receiving puppy kisses at our state-of-the-art sanctuary just outside of town, contact us at spcapv@gmail.com to schedule a tour. Tours leave from the Costco parking lot only on Thursdays during the summer months and reservations are required. 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.
Adorable Dog in the Spotlight: Shady
T
his lovely girl is Shady, our floppyeared pirate girl! When Shady was rescued and examined, she had ulcers in both eyes. Shady received surgery, but one of her eyes couldn't be saved, so now Shady is a pirate girl! Her other eye sees well, only requires eye drops daily. Shady is about 2 years old, a Labrador mix girl, weighing 42 pounds. This pup has lots of energy and loves playtime with other dogs and her toys. She is very social and enjoys the company of her humans. Shady has been spayed, dewormed and vaccinated. We are now accepting applications for her adoption. If you think this gorgeous girl would be a great addition to your family, contact us at spcapv@gmail.com for an application.
entertainment
19
From Here
July 11 - 17, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com
Life in la Cruz
Marcia Blondin
Cindy Bouchard
Aside from contributing regularly to the Tribune for several years, Marcia is a skilled artisan, specialized in repurposing recycled jewelry and selling her creations at the Marsol Friday Market by the Pier.
Originally from Canada, Cindy Bouchard runs Villa Amor del Mar, a boutique inn, in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle. Along with Chris, her husband, they are living and loving it in Vallarta Nayarit! She and her husband, Chris, are living and lovin’ in Banderas Bay. If you want more info on La Cruz or desire a very special vacation, drop her a line!
marciavallarta@gmail.com
Comfortably Numb
Y
ou’ve Come a Long Way, Baby” popped into my head during intermission of soprano Mary Porter’s first concert at Incanto’s theatre in Vallarta. Four months ago, for Mary Porter, Puerto Vallarta existed only on a map in Western Mexico. In sixteen weeks she came for vacation, was enchanted by Vallarta’s magic, moved here permanently knowing nobody, went to Incanto to hear tenor Enrique de Allendein concert (I sat right behind her), sang during Open Mike Night at Incanto and badda-bing, landed her own show. Quite a collection of accomplishments in a short time, wouldn’t you say? She sang her favorite songs, invited tenor Alejandro Peña to join her onstage for a solo and a duet before he had to run to a previous engagement in Pitillal to sing with mariachi. Pianist Dennis Crow made an appearance with a couple of young men from the Ballet Folklorico Tradiciones who danced to Gershwin! A brilliant addition to the program! The stage was elegant with white roses and Derek Carkner! Many members of the Vallarta Gay Men’s Chorus were in the audience to cheer on their new director who accompanied Mary beautifully on the piano. We will be seeing much more of Mary Porter as she continues to blaze trails in Vallarta: Brava! I attended the Tribute to Pink Floyd at Act II Stages last week. The Pacific Rock Company did a commendable job of capturing the essence of one of the finest British bands ever. The concert ran longer (delighting die-hard fans) than
cindy@VillaAmordelMar.com
many people anticipated, including my companion for the evening— my exquisite friend Jovany. I was assured by lead singer/bass player Ron, that the second half would be even better than the first, and it was! The finale “Comfortably Numb” was absolute perfection. (A note here to thank Act II’s Mr. Marsha - aka Howard Ross, who installed bass woofers under the seats. Wow!) Kudos to sound tech Sebastien LePage who is putting together this Summer Concert Series that will feature local musicians. The incredible band Tequila Rush will be onstage Thursday, August 1. I will let you know the program. Artist’s Cooperative Update: no news yet on our locale of choice. Keep the positive energy flowing, please! And contact me at marciavallarta@gmail.com if you are interested in joining us. The fabulous vintage clothing store “Ropero de Jovany” is moving July 15 to Hidalgo 227 on the corner of Guerrero in Centro Vallarta. Jovany’s manager, Cristobal, is now the new owner. Congratulations Cris and good luck with the move. My sister Patrice is here, and we are eating our way through Vallarta. Our mutual friend Lil has joined us from Vancouver for her first visit to Vallarta in 15 years. She is helping us eat! Our first significant rain was this past Sunday night. Incidentally, for all you newcomers to our tropical summer—remember when there is lightning, UNPLUG your cell phones and computers. Trust me on this. Take care of one another, always. Be kind daily and remember to find me at Marsol Friday Market by the Pier for free hugs, From Here.
Riquisimo Ribs! Another Delectable Option in La Cruz!
I
know I’m not alone in saying that Toño’s ribs are finger-licking, lip-smacking, melt-in-your-mouth yummy. My father-in-law remarked after an evening of all-you-can-eat ribs, “These are the best ribs I’ve had in my whole life!” Las Costillas de Toño owners, Juan Antonio Ortega and his beautiful wife, Laura Mendoza, serve guests with love. Toño has lived in La Cruz all his life and Laura moved here from Puebla seventeen years ago. They met at Enrique’s Glorieta restaurant where Laura was a waitress. They have two wonderful children, Toñito and Elizabeth. Laura and Toño love their families, our town and the tranquility, beauty and kindness of the people. They are grateful that they are surrounded by a large family in the ‘town of the cross.’ When Toño was about thirteen, he left high school and went to work in a restaurant where barbeque ribs (and many other items) were prepared. That job lasted approximately seven years. When the restaurant closed, he knew the
recipe and was a master at barbecuing ribs. Alfredo, his brotherin-law, asked him to work with him making the ribs and Toño was eager to oblige. That was about eight years ago and the success of rib night is undeniable. Along with working with his sister Marichuy and brother-in-law Alfredo at the Treehouse Bar, Laura and Toño cater small events for friends and family. People requested them personally and they created a home service, including delivery both in La Cruz and in Bucerias. When a friend asked if they could put a table out at their family home to eat there and enjoy the ribs more often they answered: “Why not?” They put two tables out the first Saturday, and five tables were filled. The following Saturday they were full again. They made a decision to continue this business and were thrilled when the municipality decided to redo the street. Now they are on the newest and nicest street in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle. What a blessing! They have a great clientele and will open more in the Fall-Winter months, but during the Summer they’re only open Saturdays for six hours. Their clientele includes locals, both nationals and expats, and tourists
too. People are welcome to bring their own alcoholic beverages. Seeing people happy and satisfied with their ribs is their ultimate pleasure. And when guests tell them that they liked their dinner very much. Toño says, “We aspire to be one of the most sought-after BBQ rib restaurants in the bay!” They like the growth of La Cruz, particularly the marina and the main entrance to town with all the wonderful people it welcomes. Toño’s favorite water sport is surfing but he says he’s not very good at it. They both love cooking at home and one of their favorite recipes is ‘ceviche de pescado en cuadrito’ which translated is, fish ceviche with fish that is cubed, not ground. They’d like La Cruz to always celebrate the traditions of our town; the parades, the charrería (dancing horses), the festivals, and to always keep the tranquility of our quaint fishing village. Their wish for La Cruz, forevermore, is to always be a clean town with all basic services, bringing lots of tourism so that businesses prosper, providing locals with all the work they choose. “We want all to give good service to tourists and, of course, we always want our town to remain very safe.” Both Laura and Toño agree their greatest pride is their family and with their efforts, little by little they are moving forward every day. They thank all who support them, and La Cruz in general, attracting more tourists to visit and enjoy the culinary pleasures they prepare with much love to please their customers. To confirm they’re open call (322) 132-5541 or check their facebook page, Las Costillas De Toño.
entertainment
20
Summer Music Christie Seeley
vezelay@mac.com
Christie is a steadfast promoter of local music and musicians. Learn more about her explorations at www.vallartasounds.com.
Arriba La Cruz de Huanacaxtle— The Album
W
olfgang (Lobo) Fink and Esaú Galván, both of La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, presented their second
album together this year on June 25 at a local venue. Prior to the show, I asked Esaú to tell me about the new CD, Arriba La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, “You’re going to love it!” he said. “It’s tons of fun”. Well, I knew that to be true, as I’ve been watching them perform together through the season,
witnessing a beautiful and jovial relationship growing between the two. Indeed, they are having fun! I was not prepared, however, for the truly playful spirit of the first track of the album, Flamenco Mexicana. In this piece, they celebrate the everyday joyful pleasures of living in Banderas Bay Area, from the cries of the tamale vendors to that of the surfers of which Lobo is one. Lobo was originally intrigued with the idea of surfing while living in Puerto Escondido in southern Oaxaca, where the famous Mexican pipeline’s waves are both majestic and intimidating. It wasn’t until he came to La Cruz that he ventured out to try surfing, tho. The term el tubo refers to the barrel where the wave is hollow when it is breaking. The song carrying that name on this album definitely captures the imagination of even a non-surfer, conveying the feeling of waiting for—and experiencing—the spectacular thrill of riding the wave. In another selection, Lobo tells of the change he experienced moving from the sophisticated mountain area of San Miguel de Allende with its flamenco and gypsy rumba music to the “banda” style of music in the blossoming coastal town of La Cruz de Huanacaxtle. In Las Tubas de Huanacaxtle, Dani Marquez of Tatewari and Groove House Studio, who produced the CD, plays on his bass guitar the sound of the famous tuba prevalent in the music of that genre. Of all the selections in this album, perhaps the most surprising and unique is a beautiful piece called Soledad Iraní which Lobo and Esaú recorded with friend Ali Gholami who vocalizes the poignant lyrics in Farsi. Following that is the haunting Baladas del Moro which carries us back to Spain where flamenco originated. Lobo has departed for a visit to his second home of Bavaria but we are all betting on his Fall return. How could he resist? Esaú will be playing solo this summer at several venues. Stay tuned for his schedule or check the calendar on my website: vallartasounds. com, for his performances. You can pick up a copy of the new CD, Arriba La Cruz de Huanacaxtle with Esaú Wednesdays at Cuates y Cuetes at his group Tatewari’s performances from 6-8PM.
July 11 - 17, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com
Act II Announces Summer Entertainment Act II’s summer season is in full swing! Come and enjoy a cool drink in the comfortable, air-conditioned Encore Bar, and then delight in some of the best live entertainment in town!
A
ct II is #2 in “Things to Do” in Puerto Vallarta ~Trip Advisor #1 Entertainment Venue Here’s what’s happening at ActII this week: Saturday, July 13 – 7:30 pm “Twist & Shout” Act II’s hugely popular “sleeper hit” of the season, returns to the Red Room on Saturday nights this summer. Take a journey back to the time of poodle skirts and rock ‘n roll, with the dynamic duo of Pedro Islas and Faride Talama who present a high-energy, hilarious musical comedy, with songs such as “I Wanna Be Loved By You,” “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You,” “Be My Baby,” “Lollipop,” “I Only Want to Be With You,” “Twist and Shout,” and more. You will want to get up and dance along with them! This unforgettable show has a unique format and is full of singing, comedy, and dancing to the rhythms that changed the world! Tuesday, July 16 – 8:00 pm Karaoke Night! Karaoke Night is the most popular, most welcoming and most fun karaoke party in the bay. Happy hour drink specials are offered 6 - 8 PM, and free karaoke begins at 8 PM! Our beautiful Encore Lounge has a fully-stocked, air-conditioned bar, and features the best karaoke in town! It’s the place where many of your favorite singers/actors from your favorite shows pop in to sing with the locals! Wednesday, July 17 – 7:30 pm “The Best of ABBA and Elton John” After its incredibly successful, sold-out run this year, Us Two is thrilled to be able to present their #1 show, “The Best of ABBA and Elton John” during the summer season! In a musical tribute to the timeless music of two unforgettable acts, ABBA and Elton John, UsTwo will perform songs that you remember, such as “Mama Mia,” “Dancing Queen,” “Chiquitita,”
“Sad Song,” “Candle in the Wind,” “Rocket Man,” and many more. Their repertoire changes with each performance, but these amazing vocalists (and their live band) will treat you to an unforgettable evening of music and an evening to remember! Friday, July 19 – 8:30 pm “El Ornitorrinco” (The Platypus) The Platypus is a hilarious stageplay about relationships in postmodern social networks. It begins with the story of Ana and Paco, who have had a loving, but boring relationship for several years. Ana is a student, working on her thesis about “the platypus,” a curious, unclassifiable and exotic animal. Paco decides to add some excitement when he asks Ana about the possibility of having an “open” relationship. This triggers a discussion around their desires for experimentation, posing the possibility of how infidelity could help them rediscover their passions, fears and realities! Recommended for adults only. Performed in Spanish. Are You an Actor? Dancer? Singer? Act II is still casting for next season’s shows! Auditions are scheduled for Saturday, June 29. Contact Marsha Ward Ross at act2entertainmentproductions@ gmail.com for details. Tickets can be purchased online at act2pv.com or at the box office, opening at 4:00pm on show days. The Act II Entertainment Stages complex is located on the corner of Insurgentes and Basilio Badillo in Zona Romantica. For more information, call (322) 222-1512, or follow Act II on Facebook.
21
entertainment Live Music Calendar
This listing features bars and restaurants that may have live music and ongoing acts, if there are no acts listed, check with the venue as they may still have events planned. Schedules can change without notice. We do not take responsibility for misinformation. Email editor@vallartatribune.com to update or add listings.
VALLARTA Babel Bar (Aquiles Serdán 437, Isla del Cuale) Fri: Faralae 7-9 pm Sat: Nacho and Diego 1 – 3 pm Sat: Oscar & Raul 7-9 pm Sun: Esau & Lobo 1 - 3 pm
July 11 - 17, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com
Upcoming Events
Que/Pasa (625 Aquiles Serdan) Tues: The Change at 7-10pm Sun: Sylvie&The Zippers 7 – 10 pm Roxy Rockhouse (Ignacio L Vallarta 275) Nightly music after 11 pm with house band Aloha Bar (Plaza Parabien #16) Thur: Dr. Groove 10pm
Blakes Restaurant and Bar (Plaza Los Glorias #16) Chasers Sports Bar (Avenida Mexico 570A) Fri: Gecko Band 8 – 11 pm
Captain Don’s (Honduras 126) Fri: Tequila Rush 8 - 11 pm Sat: Da Crew 8 - 11 pm
NUEVO VALLARTA
Cuates y Cuetes (Francisca Rodriquez 101) Tues: Moruno at 8:30 – 10pm Wed: Tatewari 6:00 – 8:00 pm Sun: Moruno at 8:30 – 10 pm
Eddies (Boulevard Nayarit 70) Weekly – Live music 6:30 – 9:30
Daquiri Dick’s (Malecon and Lazaro Cardenas) Sun: Esaú Galvan 7:30 – 9:30 pm
Ernestos Good Grub (Calle Perra,Jarretaderas)
El Barracuda (Boulevard Nayarit 70-8)
Estudio Café (Paseo de la Marina 31) El Oasis de Holi (River mouth by La Isla Mall) Sat: Dr. Groove 6 pm El Rio BBQ, (Paso Ancho) Sun: The Cheko Ruiz Band at 3 p.m.
Jardin Montenegro Restaurant Blvd. Nuevo Vallarta #220 – Nuevo Vallarta
BUCERIAS
Incanto (Insurgentes 109) Dennis Crow, Piano Sing-along - Most evenings 9:30 PM Sun: Joby & Tongo 5 PM Sun: Benji Gutierrez, Piano 7:30 PM Tues: Victor and Anais 5 PM Tues: Lady Zen 7:30 PM Wed: Bob Bruneau, Piano 5 PM Wed: The Renteria Brothers 7:30 PM Thurs: Edgar Roxha 5 PM Thurs: Open Mic 7:30 PM Fri: Joan Houston 5 PM Fri: Zoe & Leon with The Renteria Brothers 7:30 PM Sat: Benji Gutierrez & Aaron Hernandez 7:30 PM
Encore Restaurant & Lounge (51 Lazaro Cardenas | Bucerias)
Kelly’s Pour Favor Saloon and Cookhouse (Lazaro Cardenas 245) Mon: Hoochie Coochie Men 8 - 11 pm Wed: Tequila Rush 8 – 11 pm Thurs: 3Tones 8 – 11 pm Fri: Dr. Groove 8 – 11 pm Sat: Soul Trip 8 – 11 pm Sun: No music during low season
Ana Bananas (Tiburón #42 | La Cruz) Sun: Live Music 7 pm
La Casa de La Hugo (Hamburgo 146, Versalles) La Ingrata (Abasolo 169) Late night DJ most nights
El Chivero (Avenida Pacifico 9, Centro | Bucerias) Drunken Duck(Avenida Mexico, Centro | Bucerias) Wed: The Gecko Band 9 pm Sun: The Gecko Band 5pm JAX Bar and Grill (Avenida Mexico 17, Bucerias)
LA CRUZ
Mexican Ceramics Adventure – Lecture and Demonstration (July 13 • 11 am - 1 pm) A fun, easy, no fuss introduction to Ceramics! This two-hour class will take you on a journey through all the aspects of ceramics, from live demos of wheel-thrown pottery, to hand building with slabs and coils of clay, we will explore examples of everything our studio has to offer. ART Vallarta • Pilitas 213 • www.artvallarta.com SPCAPV Champagne Brunch (July 27 • 10 am - 2 pm) Monies raised will support the SPCAPV’s goals, which include sterilization, adoption and healthcare efforts for companion animals in the Puerto Vallarta area. The event will take place at Hacienda San Angel. For more information, please email spcapv@gmail.com El Salado Estuary 19th Anniversary Celebration (July 27 • 9 am - 2 pm) Please read more details about this event on pg. 6. Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (August 3 • 7 pm and 9:30 pm) A jukebox musical based on the eponymous 1994 film. Teatro Vallarta • facebook.com/teatrovallarta Democrats Abroad Costa Banderas Chapter Special Summer Social (August 4 • 10 am) Enjoy a private tour of the gardens by founder, Bob Price. Then, enjoy an a la carte brunch at their restaurant. Admission for non-members is $200 MXN per person. Transportation not included. Vallarta Botanical Garden
Greene Tomato (Town Square, La Cruz) OSO’s Oyster Bar ( La Cruz Marina) Sat: The Remedy 7 pm Britannia (Coral, La Cruz) Tues: Open mic with The Turn 7pm
Cheryl’s Shoebox 4th Annual Summer Bash (August 4 • 2 - 8 pm) This fundraiser will feature live music and picnic-style games where your favorite restaurants, bars and shops compete for the title of Cheryl’s Shoebox Summer Beach Bash Champions! Babel Bar, Isla Rio Cuale
La Cruz Inn (36 Calle Marlin | La Cruz)
Murphy’s Irish Pub (484 Morelos, Malecon) Thur: Adriana and the Freaks at 10 pm Fri: Adriana and the Freaks at 10 pm Sat: Adriana and the Freaks at 10 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
Buzzos (In front of Bungalows Princess | Bucerias)
Harness the Power of Painting (July 12 • 1:30 - 4:30 pm) This class is for both beginning and experienced acrylic painters. Painter Douglas Simonson has 35 years of experience painting in acrylics and he will work with you in whatever area of painting you want to focus on. He can also help total beginners who don’t yet know what they want to focus on! ART Vallarta • Pilitas 213 • www.artvallarta.com
SAYULITA & SAN PANCHO El Atico Hookah (Sayulita) Don Pato (Marlin 12, Sayulita) Live music nightly Jack’s Cantina (Sayulita beside bus terminal) Faro Mita (Higuera Blanca)
View these listings and more online at www.vallartatribune.com/eventos/live-music-calendar/
22
games
July 11 - 17, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com
Anglican Church Puerto Vallarta
Iglesia Anglicana Puerto Vallarta
Worldwide Anglican Communion Anglican Church in North America
Puerto Vallarta (322)-308-0022
Read the first edition of the Best of Banderas Bay and Riviera Nayarit guide online www.vallartatribune.com
64
pages of information designed to make your stay in the area the best! From the best beaches to the best activities and more, you can download and view online at www.vallartatribune.com and watch for copies at your favourite Vallar taTribune distribution points.