Vallarta Tribune - Issue 1164 July 25 - 31, 2019

NEWS

FOOD

LA CRUZ

SPCA Urgently Seeking Volunteers

Enjoying Tacos de Carnitas

The Tree House Bar Branches Out

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Page 8

Page17 July 25 - 31, 2019 Year 22 Free Issue 1164

FR EE

GU ID E

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

Cortesía

Resplendent Quetzal (Pharomachrus mocinno)

MAP OF BANDERAS BAY

PAGE 12-13

VALLARTA SHOPPING PAGES 14-15

ENTERTAINMENT PAGES 20-21

CROSSWORD PAGE 22

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editorial

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Editor’s

July 25 - 31, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com

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Note

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editor@vallartatribune.com

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have always been a huge fan of documentaries. While living in the US, I always found time to switch my TV to the local PBS station or the Discovery Channel in search of their latest offerings.

Living in Mexico, I find that there are now many incredible hour-long documentaries available through YouTube and Netflix on every topic you can imagine. And of course, we are talking about on-demand programming, so one can easily find the most suitable time to enjoy these and many other features.

It would seem that lately, PBS must have struck a distribution deal with Netflix, as all of a sudden, I find an increasing number of their Nova documentaries available to watch whenever it suits me. I’ve always admired how their creators and producers manage to break down complex topics, such as black holes or nuclear energy into easyto-digest, bite-size information morsels. One particular documentary I watched this week has stayed on my mind: Decoding the Weather Machine—Discover how Earth’s intricate climate system is changing.

The two-hour feature was premiered by PBS last year and it offers an up-close and well-informed explanation about the relationship between increasingly extreme weather—disastrous hurricanes, widespread droughts and wildfires, withering heat or extreme rainfall, for example—and climate change. One particular aspect of the documentary truly grabbed me: the increasing disappearance of the polar ice caps and the ensuing sea level rise around the globe.

Since sea level changes happen so gradually, they are easy to dismiss—one could look around and think, “this is not happening here.” But the documentary pays a visit to several communities in the Continental United States where the gradual rise in sea level has driven residents to either relocate

Page 10 or build up another story to their homes, given the fact that their market value has plummeted.

Researchers predict that within the next 100 years, several coastal cities around the globe will have changed drastically as a result of climate change, along with the average temperature, worldwide, which will have increased noticeably. 100 years is within the lifetime of our children and our grandchildren.

So it’s not climate change we are talking about. It’s about our climate change. This past weekend, I found myself enjoying brunch at Lindo Mar, by the ocean, and I could see that the ocean could touch the

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edge of the property, and a few plastic chairs and palapas were gently being rocked by the waves.

It was a warm day, of course, so those enjoying the narrow strip of beach didn’t seem to mind having their feet in the water. But then I thought to myself, is the water level that high because of the tide? Is it climate change? Is it both?

On the way back, I noticed a building by the highway with a brand-new solar panel array on its roof, and then I recalled seeing several new ones in different places around the city. “Renewable energy… people are taking action… good call!... must write article about solar panels,” I thought to myself.

And I will. And this publication will continue to share news and information about a broad variety of topics. But from now on, we will always be mindful of ways in which we can feature the effects of climate change in our communities so we can all be more mindful about them.

Go watch that Nova documentary.

It’s thought-provoking!

Enjoy, Paco Ojeda Interim Editor

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welcome

Welcome to Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit

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Cortesía

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

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 25 - 31, 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

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news briefs

July 25 - 31, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com

Riviera Nayarit Receives New Blue Flag Certification

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iviera Nayarit has just announced new Blue Flag certifications for Marina San Blas, along with renewed certification for Nuevo Vallarta Beach North and Marina Riviera Nayarit, in the municipality of Banderas Bay. The Blue Flag is a certification by the Foundation for Environmental Education that a beach, marina, or sustainable boating tourism operator meets its stringent standards.

There are 54 certified beaches and three marinas located in 13 municipalities and six states throughout Mexico, with three beaches located in Puerto Vallarta: Palmares,Playa de Oro and Sheraton. Our country is currently in first place for Blue Flag certification in Latin America, and 13 worldwide. Concerned travelers can visit Blue Flag’s website, where they can check the bathing water quality before visiting a beach. For more information, visit www. blueflag.global. • PO

International Living Praises Puerto Vallarta, Sayulita

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nternational Living, the monthly publication detailing the best places in the world to live, retire, travel and invest, has singled out Puerto Vallarta and Sayulita among ‘21 Great Value Beach Destinations Around the World’ in a recent article. In their choices, they featured ‘pocket friendly beach destinations with their own distinct personality’ in 12 countries, worldwide, including Ecuador, Panama, Portugal and Belize. Of all the countries, Mexico received the highest number of destinations: Cozumel, Tulum, Cancun, Puerto Vallarta and Sayulita.

Founded in 1979 by Bill Bonner, International Living now has offices and writers all over the world. Their very informative website offers a wealth of resources for those looking to relocate to a different country. For more information, visit internationalliving.com • PO

Puerto Vallarta to Launch Uber-like App

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n an effort to improve their services, Puerto Vallarta’s taxi union will soon launch their own cell phone app, called Taxi PVR Oficial. In an interview with Tribuna de la Bahia, Jaime Aguilar Mejia, General Secretary for the Puerto Vallarta Taxi Union, indicated that fares will be lower than those offered by Uber. In addition, fares will be fixed, as opposed to those implemented by Uber, which can vary according to time of day.

Apps for iPhone and Android cell phones are already available at their respective stores. In addition, an official website, taxipvroficial.com, allows direct contact with the group behind the new application, for additional information. Taxi PVR Oficial also has a Facebook page where users can follow news about the new service, or report any problems that may arise while riding a local taxi. • Tribuna de la Bahia

June, Hottest Month on Record

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ccording to the United States’ National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), scorching temperatures made June 2019 the hottest June on record for the globe, bringing Antarctic sea-ice coverage to a new low. The average global temperature in June was 1.71 degrees F above the 20th-century average of 59.9 degrees, making it the hottest June in the 140-year record. Nine of the 10 hottest Junes have occurred since 2010. Last month also was the 43rd consecutive June and 414th consecutive month with above-average global temperatures.

NOAA is an American scientific agency within the United States Department of Commerce that focuses on the conditions of the oceans, major waterways, and the atmosphere. It’s five fundamental activities are monitoring and observing Earth systems with instruments and data collection networks, understanding and describing Earth systems through research and analysis, assessing and predicting the changes of these systems over time, advising and informing the public with important information, and managing resources for the betterment of society, economy and environment. For more information, visit noaa.gov • NOAA

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news briefs

Bucerias Considering Underground Parking for Buses

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ne of the challenges Bucerias faces is the lack of adequate parking for tourism buses near its hotels, a problem increasingly affecting nearby communities, such as Sayulita, San Pancho and Lo de Marcos. To that effect, the Banderas Bay Tourism Department has announced the possibility of an underground parking project at Bucerias’ main plaza. Claudia Guzman, Tourism Director, indicated that a new parking lot, along with a new church, will help alleviate vehicular traffic in an already dense area of the bay. Presently, the large tourism buses that tend to increase in numbers during the summer months, are being assigned to parking areas on the outskirts of town.

She added that the problem is not as noticeable in Sayulita, where buses are directed to the esplanade on the gas station, and in San Pancho, they are not as common as in other destinations within the municipality. In contrast, it is not uncommon to find several dozen buses parked along the Carr. 200 highway lateral in Bucerias. Her dependency is encouraging all tourist destinations within the municipality to account for this important need in their future development plans. • Tribuna de la Bahia

July 25 - 31, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com

Volcano Near Mexico City Continues to Raise Concerns

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ith an ongoing increase of activity over the past few days, the Popocatépetl, an active volcano in central Mexico, continues to raise concerns among residents of nearby communities. “El Popo,” as refered to by locals, is 43 miles southeast from Mexico City and can be seen regularly, depending on atmospheric conditions.

On March 19, fragments of the dome shot within 1-1/2 mile radius, prompting the Scientific Advisory Committee of the Popocatépetl volcano to change the phase of the Yellow Volcanic Warning Light Phase 2 to Yellow Phase 3, a preventive measure against the observed changes. The activity continued to increase through the month of June causing much dust and ash to contaminate the atmosphere around it. This past Saturday, a new series of explosions resulted in further warnings to the population at large, particularly thrillseekers, to not approach the volcano, maintaining a distance of 7.5 miles around its perimeter.

Popocatépetl is one of the most active volcanoes in Mexico and the most famous. It’s had more than 15 major eruptions since the arrival of the Spanish in the 1500s. The last major eruption ocurred in 1947. • PO

Princess Cruises Offers Largest Deployment Ever From West Coast USA to Mexico

A SPCA Urgently Seeking Volunteers

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id you know the SPCA is doing free spay/neuter clinics since March? This project was Janice Chatterton´s latest passion. She recognized that even with all the other free clinics that are already offered in town, there is still such a big need for more free sterilizations, especially in the outskirts of Puerto Vallarta.

To that effect, Puerto Vallarta’s SPCA has started a 2-day free clinic every other week on Mondays and Tuesdays, every week in a different colonia, or neighborhood. Since the beginning of the program, they have been able to fix more than 600 pets.

As the spay/neuter program has increased in size and scope, the need for ongoing volunteers has also increased. The SPCA is looking for volunteers for every clinic who can help with the basic organization (checking in and registering the owners and pets), cleaning instruments, and monitoring the pets when they come out of surgery. No prior experience is necessary, as the SPCA is ready to teach you everything you need to know, and it is not difficult. The required time commitment to participate in this program is 8 am -2 pm.

Even if you can only help one day, please consider donating a morning of your time to help the SPCA prevent hundreds of unwanted puppies and kittens from being born. It is very important and gratifying work.

If you are able to help, please email spcapv@gmail.com. • SPCA

s reported online by Travel Daily News, Princess Cruises is offering its most robust deployment ever from West Coast USA for the 2020-2021 season, visiting destinations in Mexico, Hawaii and the California Coast. Deployment highlights for the 2020-2021 season include a new hometown cruise ship for San Francisco – Ruby Princess – sailing roundtrip to Hawaii, Mexico and the California coast, along with new 16-day Hawaiian Islands cruises roundtrip from Seattle aboard Emerald Princess and Ruby Princess.

Royal Princess returns to the Port of Los Angeles, offering 25 cruises to the Mexican Riviera, including seven-day options to Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlán and Puerto Vallarta.

Shorter, five-day cruises to Cabo San Lucas are also available featuring an overnight stay.

New San Francisco hometown ship Ruby Princess offers three, 10-day cruises to the Mexican Riviera, offering a memorable sail-away under the Golden Gate Bridge. Emerald Princess and Star Princess will sail on Baja Peninsula & Sea of Cortez voyages, visiting Cabo San Lucas (overnight), La Paz, Loreto and Puerto Vallarta, roundtrip from Los Angeles.

Whether ashore or onboard, guests can enjoy the local culture with regionally-inspired menu items such as ceviche, tacos, margaritas and even a premium tequila tasting. Live Mariachi Bands will serenade guests performing traditional songs throughout the ship. • Travel Daily News

local voices

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July 25 - 31, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com

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.

How Bright Is Our Future?

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very drop of water used in Puerto Vallarta is provided

by Seapal. The company which provides us with all water and sewage services is the keystone to all life here. Seapal has a huge responsibility to all Mexicans and ex-pats living here. How is it doing?

Reports from the company show that it is providing an excellent service. Last month, Seapal received its 28th consecutive annual award for good water quality and good sanitary sewer operation from the Federal Ministry of Health.

It is the only organization in Mexico to have had such a long record.

Soraya Topete Camacho, the head of the laboratory department, said “The population can rest assured that they are receiving quality water. Tourists can feel calm, you can open a tap to fill your glass of water and drink it with confidence.” That’s good!

The cool, clear water that we enjoy in Puerto Vallarta is cheap too.

According to data provided by the various water utilities in the country, drinking water rates for the domestic sector in Puerto Vallarta are below those in Los Cabos, Cancun or Acapulco. That’s good too!

But there’s a question. The mission statement of any organization defines what an organization is and its reason for being.

Seapal’s mission statement reads, in part, “We have as a fundamental purpose, to satisfy the needs of potable water and sewerage of the users of Puerto Vallarta, at fair and reasonable prices, with a high level of quality, preserving the ecological environment, thus contributing to the economic and social well-being of the community.” Can’t argue with that.

But in the four words, “PRESERVING THE ECOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT” is where the big question looms. When I refer to the heading “The Hydrological Cycle” on the Seapal website (seapal.gob.mx/

el-ciclo-hidrologico/), I am greeted with a diagram showing evaporation, condensation, precipitation followed by a river, a lake, a water treatment plant and lots of buildings.

No mention of an aquifer anywhere.

That makes no sense because, from the appearance of the three rivers that flow through Puerto Vallarta, there is not enough water from them to support a population of 300,000, let alone the millions of tourists who come each year. There is no desalination plant in P.V., so the water has to be coming from an aquifer or two. If so, is Seapal providing excellent services now, but not “preserving the ecological environment” by looking far enough into the future? That’s the big question.

Geo-Mexico publishes papers about the geography and dynamics of modern Mexico. An article titled “Mexico’s freshwater aquifers: undervalued and overexploited” states that Mexico’s groundwater aquifers are an essential resource and about 64% of public water supplies come from wells sunk into aquifers. According to the National Water Commission, many of the country’s aquifers are overexploited in that more water is withdrawn each year than is naturally replaced.

Hmm! According to our go-to encyclopedia, Wikipedia, “Nearly 50% of the workforce in Puerto Vallarta is employed in tourism-related industries: hotels, restaurants, personal services, and transportation.” No kidding! We all know that. But with no tourists, Puerto Vallarta will be a shadow of the place it is today.

And if Seapal’s water supply (read “aquifer”) is unable to keep on pumping out water for the next fifty or five hundred years, this city will cease to exist.

Would it be too much to ask Seapal to have an independent, professional assessment done of our aquifer and to publish the results by the end of 2019? How much water did the aquifer hold fifty years ago? How much today? What is the current annual net drawdown? Can it be replenished from rainwater?

How? These are the questions to which we need answers.

After all, present residents and those buying in the future could lose much of their life’s savings if their properties become worthless. Much

worse, will be the plight of those Mexicans who depend on tourism and who will become displaced if this source of income dries up. We all need a long-term guarantee of clean, cool water. Seapal has

been greatly appreciated since its inception in 1977, and it is today. We enjoy the best water available. But the company needs to re-assure us that the future is bright too. Without water we won’t be here.

food

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July 25 - 31, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com

Enjoying Tacos de Carnitas Text and photos by Paco Ojeda here is more to tacos than simply a corn or flour tortilla with a filling. Given the many available varieties, one could easily spend several days enjoying Mexico’s favorite dish. One such variety is carnita tacos.

Carnitas literally means ‘little meats.’ It is a pork dish that originated in the state of Michoacan but enjoyed throughout the country.

Pork carnitas are made by braising different sections of the pork in large copper or stainless steel pots for several hours. Once cooked, the meat is finely chopped and usually served in tacos, although not exclusively. There are different types of carnitas, depending on the part of the animal you choose to taste, and aficionados swear by their favorite types, which can come from unexpected places—let’s just say nothing goes to waste!

As the dish has migrated to different parts of the country, its preparation has evolved. For example, in northern states such as Durango and Chihuahua, they are usually braised longer, resulting in a crunchy outside texture and darker meat, whereas in Guanajuato they are served en su jugo, or in the broth that they were cooked in, resulting in more tender meat. In Guadalajara, carnitas are used to prepare tortas ahogadas, an emblematic dish popular in our state capital that consists of a sliced bolillo, a type of savory bread traditionally made in Mexico, stuffed with meat and literally drowned (hence the name, ahogado means drowned) in a brothy sauce.

Just as there are people that swear by their traditional method when it comes to specific dishes (apple pie, barbeque ribs and chili come to mind) most carnitas makers swear by recipes passed on from generation to generation, and heated discussions can take place among fans about the best places to enjoy them. Fortunately for us, there are several choices available to us here in Puerto Vallarta.

As mentioned above, there are many different types of tacos to explore and enjoy, and many vendors (stands or restaurants) specialize in specific types, such that, with very few exceptions (see below) you must go to a carnitas vendor in order to enjoy them. In that regard, you pretty much have three options, described below: Parados (Standing) Eating tacos parados, or

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standing up is usually done at street food stands, and this is arguably the most authentic way to enjoy tacos de carnitas. Given the scenario, many foreigners feel a bit leery of street food in general, and rightly so. For a trustworthy opinion, we contacted Eric Wichner of Vallarta Eats Food Tours, a local tour company that has been helping foreign visitors connect with Puerto Vallarta’s colorful street food scene since 2011. “We offer several walking tours around colonia Emiliano Zapata and when it comes to street tacos, a required stop is Carnitas Lalo, at the corner of Aguacate and Venustiano Carranza Sts.,” comments Eric. “They feature a nice variety of salsas, they are always packed with locals, and they work until they sell out, which can happen early in the day.”

Para Llevar (To Go) It is also possible to purchase the shredded meat para llevar, or to go, and fix your tacos at home.

This can be done at a taco stand, which will sell you the meat, tortillas and salsas, or at a butcher shop, although butchers usually only sell you the meat. This means you need to find salsas and tortillas elsewhere, but know that it is not written in stone that you must enjoy carnitas in tacos, exclusively. Eric recommends Carnicería Colin (Venustiano Carranza St., between Naranjo and Jacarandas) if you only wish to purchase carnitas.

Sentados (Sitting Down) If you wish to enjoy your tacos de carnitas sitting down, a great option is Tacos Neto, in Pitillal (Juarez 219, one block away from the main plaza). Owner Ernesto Meza began his venture in 1988 with a street puesto, or stand after owning his own butcher shop. Realizing that not everybody eats pork, he began offering beef tacos and quesadillas as well. Eventually, he opened a small, 7-table eatery that he ran for 14 years, after which, he opened his much larger, current location.

Aside from tacos de carnitas, you can enjoy other taco varieties there or at three satellite locations, one of which is conveniently located at Plaza Caracol. An added plus: tortillas are handmade on the spot!

Some Helpful Tips Tacos de carnitas are morning tacos. That is, vendors usually prepare enough meat for the day and once they run out, they stop selling the tacos. If you get to a taco stand or restaurant in the afternoon or evening and ask for carnitas,

Freshly chopped salsa and a bit of lime juice sprinkled over a carnita taco create the perfect combination of flavors.

Tacos Neto founder/owner, Ernesto Meza, welcomes restaurant guests at their Pitillal location. chances are you’ll be eating leftover meat.

As mentioned above, there is more to carnitas than simply carnitas, and since tacos are prepared from many different parts of the pork, it helps to know some of the lingo. First-timers will probably want to order tacos de maciza, which is usually lean pork meat. However, keep in mind that some of the most flavorful tacos are prepared with fattier parts of the animal. So, order tacos de surtido, which includes finely chopped pieces of everything.

Some taco stands serve their tacos with tortilla doble, or two tortillas. This is helpful sometimes as fresh tortillas are prone to breaking.

However, two tortillas will fill you up faster than ordering your tacos with tortilla sencilla, or single.

Not all vendors offer sliced lime unless you ask. A few drops of freshly squeezed lime juice will bring out the combined flavors of the meat and your salsa of choice.

Different vendors offer their own unique salsas and condiments to enhance the flavor.

Taco makers keep different meat parts separate, finely chopping what’s needed for each individual taco order.

people

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The Other Mexican Dog

By Paco Ojeda

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espite being the smallest breed of dog, Chihuahuas get all the attention throughout Mexico, around the world, and on the silver screen. They are a common sight around town, and jewelry designer Cassandra Shaw has for years developed an entire advertising campaign centered around her own beloved pets. Of the four endemic dog breeds in Mexico, only two remain. Do you know the other one? Meet the Xoloitzcuintle.

Xoloitzcuintles, or Xolos as they are known colloquialy (sho-loss) are hairless dogs found in toy, miniature and standard sizes. The name comes from two Nahuatl words, Xolotl, the name of an Aztec god, and itzcuintli, meaning dog. In Aztec mythology, Xolotl was the god of both lightning and death. This deity and a dog were believed to lead the soul on its journey to the underworld.

In art, Xolotl was usually depicted as a dog-headed man. On the other hand, the term itzcuintly became the modern Spanish word, escuincle, a word sometimes used to refer to a small child.

It is believed that domesticated dogs first entered North America through Siberia, some 4,500 years after the first humans did, and there is archaeological evidence of Xolos in Mayan, Toltec, Zapotec and Aztec tombs from over 3500 years ago. Xolos were frequently sacrificed and buried along with their owners in order to provide guidance through the journey to the underworld.

Despite their millenial heritage, Xolos did not begin showing up in Mexican dog shows until the late 1940s, but the World Canine Organization (FCI, founded in 1911) was not prepared to acknowledge them as an official breed. However, as awareness of the breed increased, the FCI realized that drastic action was needed to prevent it from going extinct. In the late 1950s, the FCI sanctioned a team of Mexican and British dog authorities to find purebred Xolos in remote areas of Mexico. Eventually, ten such dogs were found and used to revive the breed and on May 1, 1956, they were finally recognized in Mexico and officially by the FCI around the world. It wasn’t until February 1212, however, that a Xolo became one of six new breeds to appear at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show for the first time.

Given their hairless appearance, Xolos are easy to dismiss because they are not particularly attractive in a traditional way.

That said, Mexican personalities such as artists Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo raised Xolos as pets, featuring them frequently in their paintings. Although puppies can be quite noisy and oral, adult Xolos are recognized for their calm demeanor.

As one of four officially recognized breeds of hairless dogs, worldwide, they need special skincare as they are prone to scratches. The fact that they are hairless makes them great pets for those suffering from allergies. In addition, Xolos do not have problems dealing with fleas or ticks.

Other Mexican Native Animals The ajolote or axolotl also derives its name from a Nahuatl term. Also known as ‘the mexican walking fish’ ajolotes (Ambystoma mexicanum) are odd-looking amphibians that reach adulthood without undergoing a metamorphosis. And since they possess the ability to regenerate their limbs, they are frequently used in scientific research. Once a staple in the Aztec diet, these unique creatures are in critical danger of extinction and can presently only be found in the wild in the Xochimilco Lake in Mexico City.

Another animal in relative danger of extinction is the quetzal (Resplendent quetzal), a bird found in southern Mexico and Central America. Like the Xolo, it is featured in Mesoamerican mythology—it was venerated by the ancient Aztecs and Maya—and is considered the national bird of Guatemala. The species is around 14-16 inches long and males feature colorful tails that are much longer, up to 26 inches.

The Aztec god Quetzalcoatl was also known as a feathered serpent.

Ajolote (Ambystoma

mexicanum)

Mexican artist Frida Kahlo at home with two of her beloved cholos.

July 25 - 31, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com

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local voices

July 25 - 31, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com

Famous Mosaics Bubble Gum Barack

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!

A

nd now for something completely different! As you may already know, Barack Obama used to smoke cigarettes.

Not a lot, but… he did. In Michelle Obama’s book Becoming, she talks a little about his smoking.

She always hated it so he kept it away from her, even back when they were dating. You’d think the leader of the free world could go ahead and spark up a lung dart if he wanted to, but you’d be wrong!

Optics my friend. The optics aren’t good. So he had to quit.

Anyone who has quit smoking knows that it’s extremely difficult, and it helps to have something to do with your hands and mouth.

Gum is a popular substitute.

Remember when everyone was up in arms about the tan suit? Well, they lost their minds with the gum

thing too. Barack Obama’s gum chewing made national headlines, and that is no exaggeration. He was disgracing the presidency, they said.

Franz Spohn is an illustrator, sculptor and mosaic artist who is well known for creating huge portraits of famous faces. So he pretty much had to do it. He took 12,784 pieces of gum and created a 6x 6-foot gumball mosaic of Obama’s face.

I mean, wouldn’t you? Of course, you would!

The internet is strangely elusive regarding the current whereabouts of Obama’s Gumball Face; all we can say for sure is that it has been touring the Ripley’s Believe It Or Not museums across the US for some time now. If you run into it, please let us know!

Adorable Dog in the Spotlight: Bentley

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his is one gorgeous little boy! Bentley is a 4 months old Shepherd-Lab mix boy, 19 pounds of fun! He will be a medium-size adult when fully grown. This cute guy loves all dogs,

cats and humans he meets and he would make a great family dog. He has a high energy level and is up for lots of playtime, but also enjoys getting cuddled. Bentley has been neutered, dewormed and vacci-

nated. He is now available for adoption. If you think this black beauty is just what you have been looking for, contact us at spcapv@gmail. com for an application to adopt little Bentley.

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GRAND PALLADIUM VALLARTA HOTEL LA QUINTA DEL SOL

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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

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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

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GRINGO GULTCH CASA KIMBERLY HACIENDA SAN ANGEL AMAPAS

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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

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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 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.

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2 x 1 Corona or Pacifico. 50 pesos Well Drinks.

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

Murphys Puerto Vallarta

Welcome Home Tel. (322) 222 2675, (322) 222 5402, w Celular: 322 175 0412

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.

Yawning Under the Awning Part 3

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his is the final in a three-part series about awnings for your home in Banderas Bay. So far, we have reviewed the benefits of adding an awning to

your home in Mexico. This includes increasing the amount of liveable space in your home or condo. It can reduce the cost of your electricity bills. And it will most likely increase the aesthetics and resale value of your home.

We also covered the

D’RESIDENCES 2B 3 bed, 3 bath, 2,119 sq.ft. $522,750 USD

Y

our home away from home,” D’Residences is a new luxury, boutique development from renowned Architect Octavio Lopez, creator of D’Terrace, La Cima, Paramount Bay and Avalon Residence and Spa. Perfectly located on a gentle slope in the heart of the popular “Zona Romantica,” these extraordinary

residences are designed as true homes; with ample spaces and warm, comfortable details, making way for a lifestyle that will be enjoyed by a select few. This secondfloor unit located on the mountainside of the building will offer privacy and great views. The spacious and elegant residences feature a covered terrace with a

mundodeazulejos@hotmail.com www.talavera-tile.com

different types of awnings available, from vertical to retractable and offered some tips on what to look for when selecting the frame, motor, and cassette.

In this segment, we will review the best options for awning covers. Most folks go with either an outdoor fabric or aluminum blinds. If you are looking for the solution that requires less maintenance, then aluminum is probably the best direction to go. Aluminum blinds are also sturdier than fabric.

The downside of aluminum is that it is more prone to rusting and denting.

If you go the fabric route, you give up some of the benefits of less maintenance and strength. The upside is that you will have far more options when it comes to patterns and colors.

The only fabric you

should consider for awnings is performance fabric. These revolutionary materials repel liquids, resist stains, and are super easy to clean.

They also have color fastness, so they do not fade.

Most people have heard of the brand name Sunbrella, which is a performance fabric. New brands on the market that offer the same quality yet are lower in cost are LiveSmart, Phifer, and Revolution Fabrics.

These companies provide outstanding covers not only for awnings but also for interior and exterior upholstered furniture such as sofas, dining chairs, and headboards. Many covers also offer UV protection, which is so vital in this climate.

Make sure to confirm whether the fabric cover is waterproof or water-resistant.

Laminated fabrics, ones that

are made from vinyl-coated polyester, are waterproof.

Woven fabrics, ones that are made from acrylics, become just water-resistant over time.

If you want to sit under your awning when it rains, opt for waterproof.

An awning that is sewn, rather than glued, tends to last longer. Although glues used today on awnings are much better than in the old days, one that is sewn is going to be more reliable.

Now the fun part: selecting the color.

Don’t let the hundreds of pattern and color options overwhelm you if you have opted for a fabric awning.

Look for a color that complements the overall look of your home or condo, both the outside and the inside.

Remember that light colors block and reflect

sunlight and heat more than dark shades. If you want more shade, consider adding side panels. These additional components make the space feel like an added room.

Awnings, with proper care and maintenance, can last from 15 to 20 years.

Handwash your awning through the season to keep it clean. Have it professionally cleaned every couple of years to keep it waterproof.

Inspect for rust and corrosion regularly so you can treat and coat before it becomes a big problem.

Awnings add so much to a home in Mexico. Many companies offer no-obligation quotes.

Contact me at furniture@ solutionsmexico.com, and I will connect you with some reputable companies in the area.

private splash pool overlooking the bay and town.

The chef’s kitchen showcases a 12 ft. peninsula counter with bar seating and Antolini countertop (Italian Quartz), custom cabinetry and stainless steel appliances.

The bedroom suites are havens of relaxation with spa-style bathrooms and marble accents. Other features include elevator with direct access to the unit, heated splash pool, wet bar and barbeque on the terrace, marble slab floors, indirect lighting details, separately zoned air conditioning, PVC

windows and terrace doors and custom wood cabinetry throughout. Stunning in design and finishings, this property is just two blocks from famed Los Muertos beach and dozens of shops and restaurants that make this area so desirable. The common rooftop entertainment area sets a new standard of luxury entertaining options with infinity-edged pool, jetted tub, bar/lounge, secluded pet “rest stop” and hi-tech surround sound system. A perfect second home, rental property or investment, this contemporary masterpiece

is a must-see for the most sophisticated and discerning clientele that wants a true home in the heart of Puerto Vallarta.

Contact information: BOARDWALK REALTY OF: 322 224 0014

322 223 0001 michael@boardwalkrealtypv.com boardwalkrealtypv.idxbroker. com/idx/details/listing/ a 6 5 0 / 13 5 8 4 / 18 2 - Ro d o l fo-Gomez-2B-Centro-South-Jalisco-13584

local voices

16

Adventurer Byron Ayanoglu: April 21, 1946-July 12, 2019

By Madeline Milne yron reached out to me in 2016 to offer his storytelling services with tales of Chacala and the artist community that resides there. He knew he’d found a hidden gem along our coastline and he wanted to support the local people who make it such a special place (www.vallartatribune.com/chacala-the-hidden-treasure-of-nayarit/). Never once did he offer his impressive resume, instead appealing to my desire to share stories of local spots and people off the well-worn tourist path.

Apparently, he enjoyed writing for the Tribune so much he wrote again the next year and the next and in 2018 Byron penned Byron Recommends, a restaurant review column. This past season he took a break writing for the Tribune but his husband of more than 30 years, Algis Kemezys took up the reins with a series on street art and often graced our cover with his magical photos.

Before they left to return to their lake home in Quebec this past spring, I ran into them in La Comer.

In front of the imported cheeses, while searching for olive oil, we made promises to meet for dinner soon, and I’m sorry I didn’t make it happen because Byron unexpectedly passed away on July 12, 2019, after a short battle with lung cancer.

Larger than life, he was a man you would love on sight with his friendly eyes and well-spoken wisdom, and I suspect I’m not the only one. Through his 73 years, he impressed and dazzled the likes of Anthony Bourdain, drinking him under the table while touring him through Greece in No Reservations, and as Mick Jagger’s personal chef (oh, how I wish I’d made time for that dinner).

B

July 25 - 31, 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.

L He was also a food critic at the Montreal Gazette and Toronto’s Now magazine and a published novelist. The stories of Byron being shared around the globe via social media only go to show that you never know who you might meet in Vallarta.

This spring Byron shared with me his newly completed novel that is set in the neighborhood of Palo Seco and the panteon (cemetery) in 5 de Diciembre. He gave me free rein to publish it when and where I saw fit. For now, I’ll hold on to it, and perhaps in the fall Algis and I can share his last ode to Vallarta in theses pages.

Lord Byron, as he is affectionately called was adventurous and charming and wickedly funny, and I hope you had a chance to enjoy his gifts in the pages of the Vallarta Tribune. For a look at his work in the newspaper, please visit www.vallartatribune.com/author/ byron-ayanoglu.

My sincerest condolences to Algis and all those who loved Byron. Vaya con Dios, amigo.

A friend, Edward Yersh, launched a Go Fund Me campaign to raise money to help Kemezys with death costs and to transition to a new life. www.gofundme.com/f/ byron-ayanoglu-memorial-fund

ast year was our first full year in Vallarta, and at the start of the winter season, it was interesting watching as returning snowbirds renewed acquaintances with locals as well as other migratory returnees.

The reunion process would start when people viewed each other from a distance. Immediately, they would throw their hands in the air, loudly yell someone’s name, and then would rush to each other, arms wide open above their shoulders, embrace each other, jump up and down and proceed to block the way as they laughed and giggled and exchanged greetings.

It was hard to not get caught up in the excitement!

The summer procedure for greeting someone is similar but with a few twists. It is very hot and humid this time of year. Any movement causes you to sweat.

Typically, there is no jumping, throwing your hands in the air, or

making a mad dash for the other person.

Indeed, summer has returned, and while the crowds are not as plentiful, there is still live rock music in and around Puerto Vallarta, you just have to look a little harder to find it. On that note, there are several Facebook groups with live music notifications, and the Vallarta Tribune maintains an online and print version. BUT, unless the venue owners and the bands notify the publishers of these groups…

When you step into a live music venue in the summer, your first thought is, where are the ceiling fans? An unrestricted view of the band is nice, but where are the fans located, and are they fixed or do they rotate and how long before they rotate back your way?

Casually, people arise from their chairs, usually when the fans swing cycle is the farthest away from them, they will extend

their arms to waist level, and then shuffle their way towards a greeting, somewhat resembling a zombie walk. There is no spring to the step, the arms are extended stiffly out front and there is a stumble to the walk as both parties move towards “the hug.”

The exchanges are brief, usually only one cheek kiss, not both.

Be careful though, musicians are usually sweaty by the time they finish setting up. Quick hugs upon entering are ok, but by the end of the evening, after leaving it all on stage, the musicians have worked up a sweat and I would advise a hand slap/fist pump adios, forget the hug.

Speaking of musicians, many of their winter/spring season gigs have run out, but musicians like to eat all year, so many of the smaller venues in Puerto Vallarta will step in and hire some of the bands. This provides a great opportunity to see new bands and try new restaurants and their menus.

As these venues are usually smaller, this also provides an opportunity to get to know the musicians and your fellow “summer” people better. Don’t forget the tip bucket!

This summer, we have visited two new places that we would never have gone to except for the music, Casa Del Hugo in Versalles and AMA VWV located in Los Delfines. Both offered great experiences.

The one constant in town is, we always have fun year round!

local voices

17

Life in la Cruz Cindy Bouchard

cindy@VillaAmordelMar.com

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!

The Tree House Bar Branches Out

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ommunity love is inspiring me... again! Far away from my beloved La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, as I summer in the Pacific Northwest, I’m a little envious; I’m not there to participate with the Tree House gang!

This isn’t the first nor will it be the last neighbourly ‘cause’ that the community has embraced; from helping folks with medical needs, to cleaning the streets and beaches, to raising funds for animals, helping at spay and neuter clinics and helping children on so many levels, the goodness radiates!

Today, I share the most fun charitable contribution I’ve seen yet! Backstory: Marichuy and

Alfredo used to run Philo’s Bar and, sadly, when Philo passed they no longer had jobs. They connected with Wayland and Aruna of the Octopus Garden, taking over the upper floor and aptly naming it The Tree House Bar. Over four seasons they built not only a name for themselves but created a music venue never before seen in La Cruz. Every week they have two or more concerts as well as acoustic nights, open mics and/ or musical jams where musicians get together to play, and Tuesdays they present the Lucido Burrito evening which has become a delectable local favourite.

When the lease ran out, the prospect of losing the music venue mobilized many locals.

Some helped in the search for a new venue, others helped with business and financial planning.

A new location has been secured, right next-door. Same tree, different branch!

Renowned artist Nancy Hache created a gorgeous mural design enrolling others to help paint it.

It looks amazing, and even more amazing is that so many volunteered in the hottest season. I asked why?

Nancy said, “The whole reason I offered to do the mural is that I love anything that means we are beautifying and helping our community. When it was at The Octopus Garden, The Tree House was a fave place for music, dinners and fun nights. Lisa mentioned to me, one day in the pool, that they were going to help Alfredo and Marichuy. I said, ‘Well, I can do a mural to brighten up the new Tree House Bar and Grill.’ The idea grew from there. I met with Alfredo and Marichuy going over ideas and then Carl, Lisa, Greg, Mary and I finalized a vision. I wanted the mural to have a realistic but somewhat whimsical feel and it does. Best of all, it was created with love from the Tree House Gang!”

Carl and Lisa added, “Why? First, we love Alfredo and Marichuy.

They welcomed us, treating us like friends from the beginning.

We just really love them. They’re kind of like our kids. We wanted to see their dreams come true.

Secondly, La Cruz needs them.

They promote music and help our town with charitable activities! We hope they are thriving, long after we’re gone… but mostly, because we love them.”

Linda helped, “because I can... sometimes... I can get hindered because of my age... which I tend to forget. It’s all about giving back.

I’m not rich and can’t afford to give pesos like many people can and do.

All I have is my time and any abilities that might help. That’s what I do. The bonus for me is getting to know so many amazing people in my community while working towards a common goal... and then we all go for margaritas!”

Greg Lucido said, “to keep live music in La Cruz and it’s the home of the Lucido Burrito,” and burst into laughter.

Ann and Tom: “Help was needed and we wanted to be a part of the community spirit! Alfredo and Marichuy are awesome people and it’s so easy to give to people who provide such a marvelous restaurant and music venue.”

Chris and I are so grateful for all the awesome businesses and people who make up our little

July 25 - 31, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com

“Seaside Live Music Mecca.”

Marichuy and Alfredo and their girls are family to us; we love them!

We know Philo would be so proud of Marichuy and Alfredo

and the La Cruz community he adored!

Feel the love when you visit The Tree House Bar and Grill.

Great job, Tree House gang!

local voices

18

Paradise and Parenting Leza Warkentin

mommyinmexico.wordpress.com

Leza is a nursery teacher and preschool coordinator at the American School of Puerto Vallarta.

Vegetarian in Mexico

I

know a lot of people with special food considerations in their diets for a variety of reasons.

There are those who cannot tolerate gluten, dairy, or nuts. Others must alter their diets according to weight loss plans or because of diseases like diabetes. Some choose their diets based on environmental and compassionate reasons, becoming vegetarian or vegan.

When I moved to Vallarta nineteen years ago, I was transitioning to vegetarianism because of a goal I had made for myself when I was a very young girl trying to save all the animals, one stray dog at a time.

I had done some reading that summer that helped me make up my mind. One of the fiction books that I had picked up was absolutely pivotal in my decision to make the year 2000 the one in which I stopped eating meat.

That’s because the plot involved a nation-wide killer plague spread through a bad hamburger slightly undercooked at everyone’s favorite fast food joint.

But the non-fiction reading helped some as well, mentioning very real concerns such as water and land use, environmental impact, world hunger, and

animal welfare. I figured that, since I was already changing my entire life, this might be a good time to make the transition from casual carnivore to a meat-free veggie eater.

At the time, Puerto Vallarta had very few restaurants that catered to my needs, but my favorite part of Mexican cuisine has always been the beans, corn tortillas, fresh produce and salsas. It wasn’t hard to find food that satisfied, but I did wish there were a few more places that I could go and order freely off the menu, or a couple of grocery stores with a few products that I recognized as vegan or vegetarian. However, I stuck to it, and really enjoyed my new lifestyle.

So when I had children, I thought it would be a good idea to offer them only a vegetarian diet. This was less popular in the general opinion of other people than my own change was, because (say it with me, fellow veg heads) “How will they get their protein?”

Nah, you probably don’t want an essay about how protein is by the far the least of my worries (especially once my kids turned into adolescents), but I will say that this has not been an issue.

What has been an issue is that many birthday parties only offered chicken nuggets and hot dogs. If cheese pizza was ordered especially for my kids by the kind

parents, all the meat-eating kiddos wanted was cheese pizza, and my own shy kids would end up at the chip bowl for dinner.

However, my kids have been pretty gracious about that sort of thing, although they pretty much refuse to pick off pepperoni from a pizza as they’ve been instructed to do many times by well-meaning party hosts… because, according to them, it still tastes like a pig’s behind. I can’t disagree, and I’m grateful that they (nearly) always save these comments for home.

Nowadays, Puerto Vallarta offers a wide variety of vegetarian and vegan options in stores and in restaurants. My own children rarely ask for any of these items, because they love their beans and tortillas and eat pasta and pizza anywhere they can get it. They like vegetables about as much as any other kid, but they eat the bare minimum and only because I’m their mother and I said so.

If you are in Vallarta and have particular dietary needs, allow me to suggest a few places from our own list of favorites: River Café – ask for their gluten-free, vegetarian/vegan menu. They prepare the dishes separately to prevent cross-contamination. Say it with me: coconut quinoa. Yum. Planeta Vegetariano – a delicious, fresh food buffet for breakfast, lunch and dinner. This is a casual, economic choice, and you cannot go wrong with the soy ceviche.

Veggitalia Pizza & Osteria Vegetariana – if you crave Italian food (as our family does on the daily), you have to try this place.

There are options for gluten-free diets and for vegans. The hand-made pasta is melt-in-yourmouth delicious.

July 25 - 31, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com

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.

Hematology

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hat is a hematologist?

Hematology is a subdivision of internal medicine that is responsible for the study, diagnosis and treatment of all diseases of the blood and the associated organs in the production of it, such as bone marrow, lymph nodes and spleen. And now, once again, we have a remarkable new specialist in the area, hematologist Dr. Noe Vega. Such a welcome addition to the Puerto Vallarta area!

Young, innovative, up to date on ‘all things blood,’ Dr. Vega is from Ameca, Jalisco where he says he was fortunate enough to grow up surrounded by a wonderful family and friends who have supported him all the way through his professional career. He received his training as a general practitioner at the University of Guadalajara, followed by a specialty in hematology at the Centro Medico Occidente of the IMSS in Guadalajara.

During the latter, he received training in thrombosis and hemostasis at the Ignacio Chavez National Institute of Cardiology and, trained in ‘transplantation of hematopoietic progenitor cells’ at the Twenty-First Century National Medical Cente, both in Mexico City.

When I asked Dr. Vega for examples of specific diseases that he deals with, he says: “As a hematologist, I approach benign and malignant blood diseases, as well as coagulation disorders and everything related to transfusion medicine.

Within the section of benign

hematology, I can diagnose and treat anemia (decrease in red blood cells/hemoglobin).

For example, iron deficiency, folic acid and Vitamin B12 (megaloblastic anemia, autoimmune hemolytic anemia, thalassemia, hereditary spherocytosis, pure red cell aplasia, aplastic anemia, etc. Similarly, alterations in the elevation or decrease in the white blood cell count (leukocytes).

Within the area of thrombosis and hemostasis, I diagnose and treat diseases due to congenital deficiency of coagulation such as hemophilia, Von Willebrand’s Disease, decrease in platelet counts (thrombocytopenia) that may predispose the appearance of bruising and/or hemorrhages, as well as elevation in the platelet count (thrombocytosis). As well, diagnosis and treatment of hereditary thrombophilia. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases such as leukemia, acute and chronic, lymphoma (Hodgkin and Non-Hodgkin), multiple myeloma and others.”

What is the favorite part of your specialty? He believes the best part is to be able to provide comprehensive and personalized care by combining the clinical area with the support of the laboratory team. He is passionate about it and the ‘word of the microscope.’ Today, there have been breakthroughs in the treatment of hematological malignancies, improve the prognosis of these patients.

For further information, questions, appointment regarding Dr. Vega, just send me an email!

Here’s to a wondrous week!

local voices

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July 25 - 31, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com

Vibes & Vices: Booze Cruise @ Marina Vallarta AJ Freeman

cosmiccapt@gmail.com

AJ Freeman is an adventurous spirit, serial friend-maker, 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.

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or some reason, people think I only write positive things in this space, like every trip outdoors is super happy rainbow magic time and I’m just some (under) paid shill with a thesaurus.

I’ll never understand it.

Anyone who has exchanged more than the opening ceremonies with me in person knows that I’m more than happy to say what’s on my mind, and I’ll use this opportunity to prove it by sharing with you what has to rank at the bottom of my recent nautical experiences.

The Vibes: I knew this tour wasn’t designed with me in mind the moment I learned of the launch location. As with all departures from the city’s marina, embarking on this tour requires passing through a stringent security process, and this complication meant that I could not bring items that were illegal in Mexico but would improve my day substantially.

For this reason, I had to make a quick stop on the way to the docks in advance of the 9 am departure so I could stash my imported dried jerky and trail mix for fear they would be seized by customs agents and I would be prosecuted to some extent of the law. Again.

When the legal aspects of the day’s agenda were settled out, we filed into the boarding line, where a photographer offered to take a photo of us to sell to us.

Trusted assistant Nicté had the foresight to bring a camera of her own, mostly because she likes taking pictures of herself, and politely declined before leaving him to ponder his business model on the shore.

We found one of the few empty lawn chairs among the dozens on either of the boat’s double decks as masses of humanity continued to be pumped onto the boat, seemingly from some unseen portal to another universe. The tour staff frantically produced more and more chairs from the

same hole in reality, and eventually, everyone was seated and ready to set sail.

It wasn’t the most auspicious of beginnings but once the boat was finally floating forward, everybody seemed reasonably pleased… well all except for the smallest member of a dozen-member family who had also come to enjoy a day on the water, and done so all wrong.

The baby protested loud and long at who-freakin’-knows-what, tormenting even the people that brought it on the boat. Fortunately Mama Bear had the good sense and common decency to put the infant in her purse and go...idk, away somewhere. Maybe she went for a swim. Either way it was really cool of her.

Just as one noisemaker fell silent, another began a more permanent presentation. An announcer, who started out innocuously enough with standard static about how to use a life vest and where the “emergency bathrooms” were, embarked on what would turn out to be a 6-hour one-man variety show in Spanish and English. He told jokes, pointed out landmarks, engaged passengers, and at one point began to sing the Mexican national anthem for no real reason.

The Vices: And so, I headed for the lower deck to hit the bar for a drink....but if you can believe it, the bar on the booze cruise was closed.

Well, I never!

Something about waiting until after the snorkeling excursion (which does sound like a lesson learned in practice) but still, I was mildly inconvenienced for a short period of time and that simply will not do.

After suffering through the guided seaborne tour of the living postcard that is our piece of the Pacific coast as well as a stop at picturesque Los Arcos, the bar was open and everything went up half a star. A tequila x soda with lime in one hand and a children’s

cup of national beer in the other, I was finally able to enjoy the view from the bow of the boat like a real seafarer.

A few drinks later it was announced that we would be dropped off on a South Shore beach for lunch: marlin quesadilla for yours truly, machaca burritos for the +1. Both turned out to be pretty good (and the crab tacos I ordered because those sadists scheduled lunch for 3:30 were even better) although I did step on some kind of sharp beach stick on my walk to the table, which is totally the restaurant’s fault. They

could have turned the sun down a bit while they were at it.

Our lunches finished, it was time to get back on board the boat and head back toward town.

Folks were in a much better mood after a little food and drink, and even the family who had brought the baby seemed to be in good spirits, probably because the baby was asleep all afternoon.

Quirky quibbles aside, it’s hard to complain too loudly when you’re spending a Thursday afternoon sailing off the sands of Puerto Vallarta… but hey, you wanted it.

The Verdict: I’d be marketing

through my teeth if I said this was the best boat ride ever or anything—remember the pirate ship?—but the fact is that even the worst time I’ve spent in the waters off this town of vibrant vices was a damn decent day.

Better than most have ever lived.

The root of my worldview involves making an honest effort to take something from whatever set of circumstances arise, and as a certain manufacturer of low-grade Mexican beer always reminds us, your happy place can be wherever you find it. Maybe I’ll catch you there.

entertainment

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From Here Marcia Blondin

marciavallarta@gmail.com

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

Rain, Rain

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y week started off beautifully with an invitation to dinner from Georgia and Gholi Darehshori, owners of Casa Karma. Steak Diane was served at their condo overlooking Banderas Bay from very high up. I have never been afraid of heights but looking down from their terrace provoked an instant, brief panic for sea level that my feet are so used to. Clinical psychologist Doctor Gavin Jones was guest of honor. Originally from Wales, Gavin came to Vallarta (via Thailand and Guadalajara) in search of properties and facilities to offer a three-month wellness clinic next summer. Casa Karma chose to be the location! The conversation flowed from Gholi’s boyhood as a nomad in Iran until he was sixteen to Gavin’s vacation-to-vocation working in an exclusive rehabilitation center in Thailand. Fascinating discussions, great food, a pre-ordered glorious sunset, and new friendships cemented as night fell over Puerto Vallarta.

I have nearly finished delivering certificates to winners of The Tribune’s Reader’s Choice Awards. Last week had me in Plaza Marina with old friend Zoli Hargitai at Bio Spa. The “spa” is undoubtedly a misnomer; it is a clinic of the highest order of alternative medicine in Mexico with five doctors and five nurses working around the clock, creating miracles and saving lives. You can have your hair and nails done elsewhere in the mall at Plaza Marina. Later that day, I walked over to see Guillermo Wulff at Barrio Bistro, who won “Best New Restaurant.”

We had a good chuckle about that as the Bistro has been open for four years. This also proves that folks who eat, sleep and breathe in Colonia Emiliano Zapata are stepping out of their comfort zone and (ad)venturing all the way to Versalles. And what a treat dining is at Barrio Bistro.

Ropero de Jovany has been at their new locale for one whole week today! Congrats to new owner Cristobal and Lovely Lila who worked

so hard to move everything over a weekend. The new space (two blocks from my house) feels airier and more spacious. Find Ropero de Jovany at Guerrero and Hidalgo in Centro; the A/C is on; just follow the music.

I have lived in Vallarta for 28 years; in a million-dollar-plus penthouse and houses not worth more than a buck Canadian. They have all shared one major thing: they have leaked like sieves in the rain. So, why is it I have searched out all these wannabe boats to live in? Such serious shelter issues!?

(A shrink would have a ball with this one; wait! Doctor Gavin? Help!).

And, that includes my current abode. Until I hired Hector from “Grupo Repara.” You may know Hector—he is married to Arancha, owner of Babelbar on the Isla Cuale—and has been known to work like a maniac helping during one of their altruistic functions.

Hector came by, measured, took photos, was back within 48 hours with a lean, strong young man who carefully and quickly sealed a seam connecting my neighbor’s

house to mine. We have had four decent storms so far this summer that would have kept me up half the night mopping and wringing out towels. And now, when it starts to rain I continue doing what I am doing, although I do keep glancing at that corner of my house that ran black and green with slime for the last four years. It remains smugly white and clean. A giant shout-out to Hector: he achieved what many have attempted and failed for 28 years; where have you been all my Mexican life? For contact info, send me an email.

Coming up soon at Act II, Tequila Rush reprising their Led Zeppelin Tribute, Thursday, August 1 at 8 pm. If you want to know more go into the Tribune archives March 21 to 27, 2019, and look for “Kashmir,” a review I wrote after the first LZ Tribute at the Roxy.

Babelbar will host the 4th Annual Cheryl’s Shoebox Fundraiser August 4, the most entertaining event of the entire summer. Good food, live music and every expat in town will be there.

Some goofy games are played competing for the grand prize of a wildly tarted-up boot. More next week on who Cheryl was and why there is a Shoebox waiting for you to fill.

Be gentle with one another in the heat; show kindness when you really don’t feel like it.

Come to the Marsol Market every Friday for hugs and shopping and always love the one you’re with, From Here.

July 25 - 31, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com

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.

Tatewari Travels to Western Canada

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bout a year and a half ago I wrote my first article for Puerto Vallarta papers about a spectacular group that remains my favorite, the fiery flamenco group Tatewari. At the time, they had just announced their intention to tour Western Canada. That longplanned endeavor will come to fruition this September 2019.

I have been following Tatewari since 2014 when I first heard them play at a fun venue on the beach next to the pier in colonia Emiliano Zapata. They still play Wednesday nights at Cuates y Cuetes. The group is made up of three fellows who grew up together in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, Esaú Galván and Alberto “Mimi” Ramírez on guitar and Dani Márquez on bass. They began playing music together in prep school. In 2011, they were joined by a Canadian friend, Sonny Davis, on cajon. The group’s repertoire is a combination of very accomplished flamenco guitar, spirited gypsy rumba and a touch of traditional Mexican favorites. They began playing at small venues and events in San Pancho, La Cruz and Puerto Vallarta, their first paying gig being at El Gallo Restaurant in San Pancho. In those days all they had to initiate their enterprise were their guitars, enthusiasm and devotion to their music. As the years

passed they gained recognition and furthered their educations in music including a journey for Esaú to Madrid to study flamenco guitar with maestros at the Academia Cañarroto el Entri.

This year has been one full of activity for Tatewari with the release of their fourth studio album called XII.IV, to commemorate their 12 years playing together. They held release celebrations both at Tree House Bar in their hometown of La Cruz de Huanacaxtle and Incanto in Puerto Vallarta, both with very enthusiastic fans.

A year of challenging organizational work by band member Sonny Davis has paid off, as well as the support of their fans who have contributed both funds and contacts to make this upcoming tour a success. Thanks to this community support, they now have a nice lineup of performances beginning in early September and continuing to the end of the month. Their gofundme site is still active at tatewarimusic. com and taking contributions toward the trip. If you are not in Canada in September, don’t fret. Tatewari has numerous local concerts lined up beginning in the fall as well as their regular performances on Wednesday evenings at Cuates y Cuetes. You can follow their schedule on my website calendar at vallartasounds.com and theirs at tatewarimusic.com.

Happy trails Tatewari! We wish you a great adventure.

entertainment 21 Act II’s Twist & Shout Performs to Sold-Out Audience in Ajicic

July 25 - 31, 2019 www.vallartatribune.com

Upcoming Events

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ct II’s popular live musical comedy show, Twist & Shout, was invited to perform at the Spotlight Club in Ajijic last week. Pedro Islas, the show’s creator, who also portrays Tony the Jaguar, commented that it was a magical evening, with much fun and laughter. He said it was especially funny when his partner, Sarah Lee (played by Faride Talamas) was dancing and came down so hard on the floor that her heel fell off of her shoe! The audience thought it was a part of the show and everyone laughed hilariously!

Twist & Shout is performed in English every Saturday evening at Act II and combines a delightful story with lots of jukebox hits from the 50s and 60s, including songs like 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.

Pedro and Faride are professional actors/musicians and have received rave reviews about this show.

Everyone agrees that it is definitely a “feel-good” type of show, and is perfect entertainment for anyone who loves rock and roll music!

“Pedro and Faride in the original show Twist and Shout were so amazing. They sang all music from the 50’s and 60’s in a cute story about a finale in a singing competition between the two main characters. They were talented, hilarious, and they had such great chemistry together on stage.

Everyone was dancing in their seats to the songs, too!” —Chad S, TripAdvisor Act II’s Summer Concert Series this week features: “A Tribute to Led Zeppelin” Featuring Tequila Rush, one of Vallarta’s premier bands Thursday, August 1 – 8:00 pm (ONE NIGHT ONLY!)

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

Led Zeppelin was an English rock band formed in 1968. With heavy, guitar-driven songs such as Black Sabbath and Deep Purple, the Led Zeppelin band became known as one of the originators of heavy metal music. Their musical style had a wide variety of influences, including blues, psychedelia and folk music.

Tequila Rush has been together for 3 years and has a huge following all around the bay. Led Zeppelin is one of their favorite inspirations, and they perform regularly at hotels and restaurants all over Puerto Vallarta.

The band performed this show recently to a sold-out audience at the Roxy and received rave reviews.

They are excited about performing this tribute once again.

Upcoming local bands featured in the Summer Concert Series include: Lollipop – August 8 Sal de Mar – August 15 Us Two and the Band – August 22.

Act II also features several other programs this week. On Tuesday

night, Bob’s Karaoke Party begins at 8:00 pm (with happy hour from 6-8 pm).

On Wednesday night, the one-and-only UsTwo presents their Best of ABBA & Elton John show, beginning at 7:30 pm, and on Friday at 8:00 pm, El Ornitorrinco (The Platypus) is a stage comedy about relationships in postmodern social networks. (Performed in Spanish) Are you an aspiring Singer?

Dancer? Actor?

Auditions for all of next season’s shows are available right now. Act II is specifically looking for two men for one of its musicals right now. If you would like more information, or are interested in auditioning, contact marsha@act2pv.com. For more information, or to purchase tickets, go to www.act2pv.com.

Act II Entertainment is located at Basilio Badillo at Insurgentes, Colonia Emiliano Zapata. It was voted Best Entertainment Venue by the Vallarta Tribune “Best of Vallarta” Readers’ Poll.

El Salado Estuary 19th Anniversary Celebration (July 27 • 9 am - 2 pm) Puerto Vallarta’s El Salado Estuary is celebrating their 19th anniversary with a special event that will offer 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. For more information, visit their official website, www.aventurateporelsalado.com, in Spanish.

8th Ceviche and Aguachile Festival (July 28 • 1 - 8 pm) Over a dozen local restaurants will present their own innovative recipes showcasing these two traditional dishes. For updated information about the event, please visit Festival del Ceviche y Aguachile PV on Facebook. • PO 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 Health & Wellness Puerto Vallarta (August 4 • 8 am - 6 pm) The Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa provides the setting for this day-long health fair in which you can learn about, and participate in a series of holistic activities, such as yoga and meditation. • facebook.com/ HealthWellnessPV 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 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

22/7/2019

LA Times, Mon, Jul 22, 2019

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22 NFL analyst Tony 23 German "a" 24 Kite-flying need 26 Puts on the line, as money 28 Fluffy, citrusy pie 33 Lousy grade 36 USN noncom 37 Devon delivery vehicle 38 "My mom and dad will kill me!"

41 '90s prime-time soap "__ Place" 43 Less

44 License plate 45 Acquired 46 Family car largely replaced by the minivan and SUV 51 Brief movie role 52 Sure winner 56 Too 59 Voices below soprani 61 __ Carlo 62 Ordinary-sounding state bird of Minnesota 65 Pols from blue states, usually 66 Pecans and pistachios 67 Overnight lodgings 68 Tiny biting insect 69 Latin "that is" 70 Fair-hiring agcy.

71 Slow Churned ice cream brand 1 Bids first 2 Go back to zero 3 For the stock issue price 4 Soup legume 5 Radio hobbyist 6 Letter-shaped beam 7 "Decide now!"

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32 Dimitri's denial 33 Switches to low beams 34 Send forth 35 Sicilian volcano 39 Results 40 Himalayan continent 41 Nanny's bleat 42 ﬔey're laid in 55Down 44 Black-and-white, say 47 Mideast sultanate 48 Journalist Bly 49 Resistance unit

50 Annoying person 53 Without a break ... or what each word in 18-, 28-, 46- and 62-Across has 54 "__ come as no surprise ... " 55 42-Down holders 56 Drama opening 57 Title for an earl 58 Hook's cohort 60 Prefix with sphere 63 East, in Essen 64 White House advisory gp.

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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

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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.