Issue 1029, December 22 - 28, 2016 by Vallarta Tribune

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Holiday

CHRISTMAS IN MEXICO

Dec 22 - 28, 2016 Year 19 Free Issue 1029

Vallarta mexican sanctuary

Riviera Nayarit Nuevo Vallarta

FR EE

Archive

welcome

Welcome to Puerto Vallarta

and Riviera Nayarit Here is some advice to make your trip a little easier and more enjoyable. TIME ZONE: The entire state of Jalisco is on Central Time, as is the southern part of the State of Nayarit starting from Guayabitos in the north. BUSES: A system of urban buses with different routes can bring you from one end of the bay to the other and all the spots in between. Current fare in Puerto Vallarta is $7.50 pesos per ticket and passengers must purchase a new ticket every time they board another bus. There are no “transfers”. TAXIS: There are set rates within defined zones of town. Do not enter a taxi without agreeing on the price with the driver first. Price is per trip not person. MONEY EXCHANGE: Although you may have to wait in line for a few minutes, banks will give you a higher rate of exchange than the exchange booths (caja de cambio). You will need your passport. Better yet, use your bank card to withdraw funds from any ATM machine. Note that ATM’s in the banks are the safest to use and generally charge lower fees. DRINKING WATER: For the 18th year in a row, Puerto Vallarta’s water has been awarded a certification of purity for human consumption. The quality of the water tested at the purification plant varies greatly from what comes out of the tap at the other end. So do be careful. If you want to be doubly sure, you can pick up bottled water just about anywhere. EXPORTING PETS: Falling love with the street dog outside your hotel or a puppy on the Malecon doesn’t mean they can’t come home with you. The process is fairly inexpensive and only takes a day or two. You need a certificate of health from a local vet among other things. The time of year that pets can travel in the cargo section of the plane may be your biggest challenge. For the most up-to-date information contact the Puerto Vallarta SPCA at spcapv@gmail.com. COMMON SENSE: Just as you wouldn’t walk around your hometown drunk and beligerent, it is not acceptable to do that here. While Mexicans are a forgiving bunch, basic politeness is appreciated. For the guys, peeing in public is a major faux pas and if you are caught, can get you tossed in jail or an expensive fine. Pay attention to your surroundings. Pay your bills. Be courteous. And have fun! DRINKING AND DRIVING: First off – just don’t. The consequences are not worth it. Taxis are cheap and plentiful. Fines are as much as 10,000 pesos. You can be taken to jail and your vehicle impounded. There are many checkstops on the weekends and you will be asked to blow if they suspect you have been drinking. LEGAL SYSTEM: Not knowing the law is not an valid excuse in Mexico or anywhere. If you find yourself caught in a legal situation be aware that guilt is presumed until your innocence can be proven. This is a very difficult lesson to learn if you are visiting from the United States or Canada in particular. Immediately contact your consulate for assistance. Director Noemi Zamora noemizamorareynoso@gmail.com Editor Lic. Madeline Milne mmilne@Vallartatribune.com Sales Team Information office ventastribuna7@yahoo.com Designer Cynthia E. Andrade G. cysandra@gmail.com cisandra@vallartatribune.com

Dec 22 - 28, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Calling in Mexico Calling phones in Mexico can be tricky as it is different than in the US or Canada. 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 (for the U.S. and Canada the 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, then the 10 digit number including area code. Outside of the area code (but still within Mexico) dial 045 and then the 10 digit phone number. Cell phone to cell phone only requires the 10 digit number. Phone Cards Phone cards (“tarjetas telefonicas”) for use in pay phones can be bought at newstands and in pharmacies in denominations of 30, 50 and 100 pesos. Pay phones do not accept coins. When buying a phone card for pay phone use, specify that you would like a “tarjeta LADA,” because pre-paid cell phone cards are also sold in the same establishments. Calling Toll-Free Numbers Some toll free numbers work from Mexico to the US and Canada, but many do not. 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: 060 Red Cross: 065 Fire Department: 322.223.9476 Ambulance: 322.222.1533

Immigration: 322.224.7719

Consulates American Consulate Consumer Protection: Nuevo Vallarta: 01.800.468.8722 322.222.0069 24 hrs Guadalajara: 333.268.2145 Tourism Offices Canadian Consulate Jalisco: 322.221.2676 322.293.0098 Nayarit: 322.297.1006 322.293.0099 24 hrs: 1.800.706.2900

Ahoy Cruisers! Day Ship Passengers 6-Dec Ruby Princess 3,080 7-Dec Westerdam 1,916 7-Dec Norwegian Jewel 2,376 8-Dec Island Princess 1,975 8-Dec Veendam 1,350 13-Dec Ruby Princess 3,080 14-Dec Carnival Miracle 2,124 14-Dec Westerdam 1,916 14-Dec Norwegian Jewel 2,376 15-Dec Oceania Sirena 684 21-Dec Carnival Miracle 2,124 21-Dec Westerdam 1,916 22-Dec Norwegian Jewel 2,376

Day Ship Passengers 23-Dec Norwegian Jewel 2,376 24-Dec Amsterdam 1,380 25-Dec Grand Princess 2,600 26-Dec Ruby Princess 3,080 28-Dec Carnival Miracle 2,124 28-Dec Westerdam 1,916 29-Dec Norwegian Jewel 2,376 29-Dec Oceania Sirena 684

In port this month

In the month of December Puerto Vallarta welcomes 43,829 passengers!

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

Editor’s

editorial

Note

editor@vallartatribune.com

ell, this is a first in my four years with the Vallarta Tribune. Forty big fat pages. My boss is thrilled. Thank you, everyone, for all your support over the years. It’s been a bit of a slough but it’s also been very rewarding to see the paper in its glory today. Please remember that this free community paper is paid for by the financial support of our advertisers. If you happen to pursue one of their establishments please do make an effort to let them know their support of the Vallarta Tribune, brought you to them. Also good to know - advertisers get copies of the newspaper, so stop by one to grab the next edition. There are some great things happening on the north side of the bay. Lots of new restaurants opening and entertainment venues with fabulous line-ups. Bucerias and La Cruz are hopping! If you haven’t had a chance to visit those towns, I highly recommend it! In Bucerias, you can catch a great show at Luna Lounge and they have really good ribs. The newly opened Elaine’s Restaurant offers fine dining from a renowned chef. And Esquina 22 has a Christmas dinner menu for only $459 pesos. You don’t have to shop for a turkey, or hit seventeen grocery stores looking for cranberries. Easy peasy. Don’t forget to make a reservation regardless of where you’ll be dining

The Staff of Vallarta Tribune Wishes all of you this week; it’s busy across the bay and you’ll want to make sure they have enough turkey for you too! In La Cruz, the new sports bar/ restaurant Tescalama offers five huge high def. TV’s for all your sporting event needs and they have a great menu with wonderful food, including a Caesar salad that everyone raves about! If you’re not into sports, their ocean view of La Cruz and the bay is hard to beat. It’s the best of both worlds. Also new is Organic Love. This charming little spot offers healthy locally sourced food that tastes great too! Win, win! I know I promised a list of charity events that you could volunteer for but it has been really challenging getting any complete information. There aren’t really the traditional soup kitchen events that you may be used to up north. Here is what I do know: DIF Vallarta is collecting toys, new and gently used, for disadvantaged children. They are collecting them at their offices on Av. Paseo de las Palmas in Colonia Barrio Santa Maria until January 3rd when they will be gathered and handed out around the city by DIF employees and volunteers on January 6th. More details at: call (322) 225-9936, extensions 179 and 160. December 24th at Que?Pasa there is a Christmas Eve event with live music and a traditional holiday meal, as well a gift giveaway to about 500 local children. Michael, the owner of Que?Pasa is hoping you’ll join him and the staff in this heartwarming evening. It starts at

6 pm. Christmas with Children of the Dump is a popular charity/event where a number of organisations bring gifts to the families who live around the city dump. This occurs on Christmas Day at 10:30-11am. All the volunteers meet at the Walmart/Sam’s parking lot and go to the site from there. You’ll be assigned a task and it is usually a full day of volunteering. www. facebook.com/ChristmasAtTheDumpPV/ for details. In Bucerias on Christmas Day, a group goes to the village of El Guamuchil about 15 minutes north of Bucerias, where they hand out bags of food and toy bags for the kids. You can contact Michael Murphy at Bienvenidos Real Estate in Bucerias for more details. 329 298 1733 I have heard that there is a group who sets up at the Blue Chairs on Los Muertos beach and hands out gifts to the vendors’ children. I'm sure if you showed up with a couple wrapped gifts and a desire to help out, they’d put you to work. Now, there are many organisations that do wonderful work all year and they are always looking for volunteers and donations (cash is good!) check on page 38 for a list of some of the organisations around town. I wish all of you a wonderful holiday however you might choose to spend your time. Thank you for your ever-ongoing support. Feliz Navidad! Madeline

and no reservation needed, just show up at the Millennium sculpture next to the Hotel Rosita at the north end of the Malecon. In the meanwhile it would be great to be included in your listing of events for our eleventh season, and thanks for listing us last year. I've really been enjoying your chro-

nicles of visiting some of the nearby areas like Mascota and Cajon de Peña. Muchas Gracias,

What to do if you see a turtle laying eggs Maintain a minimum 10m distance If you take photos, don’t use a flash Don’t block the turtle from returning to the ocean Don’t step on or dig around the nest area Report it to the Department of Ecology at 322 160 3279

Enjoy this miracle of nature!

Letters to the Editor Dear Editor, Happy Holidays to you Madeline and your staff. Maybe after the rush is over you'll have a chance to join me on one of the Free Malecon Sculpture Tours I lead every Tuesday morning at 9:30 through the middle of April. You're invited

Gary Thompson Owner/Director Galeria Pacifico

Havre No.111 Col. Versalles Fluent English Spoken

Porcelain veneers, crowns and bridges. Dental implants Dentures Go to www.pvsmile.com.mx for address and directions

04 Friday, December 30, 2016 6 to 10 pm cocktails

iguel Angel was born in 1971 in Lagos de Moreno, Jalisco, Mexico. He studied Fine Arts at the Cabañas Cultural Instituto from 1992 to 1995, and specialized in wood and stone carving courses in 1996. This period marks the beginning of his fascination with color in sculpture. In 1997, Miguel Angel traveled to the city of Florence, Italy, where he lived until 2007. For four years, he directed the design area of a ceramic factory (cotto) in the town of Strada in Chianti. For three years, he was a professor of sculpture at the ADA art academy, also in Florence. Between 2006 and 2011 he developed his work and participated in events in Mexico, Italy, Colombia and USA. Miguel Angel is a great admirer and lover of art nouveau, geometry, insects, animals and plants in general. “During the 10 years I was in Italy I was fortunate to work with many different artists and in many

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Dec 22 - 28, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Miguel Angel Martin del Campo presents “Cosmonautos” at Galleria Dante

different techniques, including painting, etching, fresco, sculpture and installation. In three-dimensional art, bronze has always

been my favored medium. I like to mix bronze with resins, ceramic and other materials. Each creation is the result

of the past, present and future. My work revolves mainly around three elements: Metamorphosis, Change and Movement. Nothing

is created and destroyed, only transformed.”. “I like to use the 4 elements motif in my work. In my bronze sculptures the direction and color of the hair pertains to water, wind, fire and earth. Most of my pieces “move up”. This has to do with their own direction as they are looking for the light of the sun. They want to levitate, to leave the reality of the earth, to leave the ground in order to meld with the same space which contains them. Some almost touch the earth and others seem to be levitating or taking off for flight. Most of the art pieces have no arms because they are becoming beings in continual transformation. The hair is light, following in the direction of the light. The light is fire, the heat of the sun and is mythologized in the sun that gives and receives light. The eyes are closed on the face which is in a deep sleep which is where the impossible can become the possible. My main objective is to provoke in the viewer an instant of light, well-being, a thought…… …..a smile.”

Say No to Paper Lanterns

exico is renowned for its use of fireworks and now sky lanterns (or Chinese lanterns) are becoming popular. These paper lanterns are released during holidays, weddings and fiestas. Sure, they look beautiful but similar to released balloons, sky lanterns all return to earth as litter and potential fire hazards, especially with the Palapa roofs we have here in Puerto Vallarta and across the Riviera Nayarit. They are often marketed as “biodegradable” or “earth- friendly,” both untrue. Sky lanterns are made with treated paper, wires and/or a bamboo ring that do not burn up and have to land somewhere. They can travel for miles and always land as dangerous litter. Sky lanterns have caused huge

structure fires and wildfires. This flaming aerial trash has caused serious burns to humans and killed animals that eat them or become entangled in their fallen remains. With no way to gauge where or when they will land, these lanterns can very well land in the bay and become a death trap for turtles, whales, dolphins and more of our valued habitat. Entire countries have banned the use of sky lanterns, including Austria, Australia, Brazil, New Zealand, Spain, Germany and parts of Canada. Here in Mexico, there are no such bans but that shouldn’t stop you from appreciating the danger that these lanterns pose and think twice before setting any off.

holiday

Dec 22 - 28, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Christmas in Mexico

n Mexico, Christmas is celebrated from the December 12th to January 6th. While there are many similar traditions, most have their own unique Mexican flavor. Here are a few things you might experience this holiday season. From December 16th to Christmas Eve, children often perform the ‘Posada’ processions or Posadas. Posada is Spanish for Inn or Lodging. There are nine Posadas that celebrate the part of the Christmas story where Joseph and Mary looked for somewhere to stay. In each Posada, children are given candles and a board, with painted clay figures of Mary riding on a donkey and Joseph, to visit around the streets with. They call at the houses of friends and neighbors and sing a song at each home. The song they sing is about Joseph and Mary asking for a room in the house. But the children are told that there is no room in the house and that they must go away. Eventually they are told there is room and are welcomed in!

When the children go into the house they say prayers of thanks and then they have a party with food, games and fireworks. Each night a different house holds the Posada party. At the final Posada, on Christmas Eve, a manger and figures of shepherds are put on to the board. When the Posada house has been found, a baby Jesus is put into the manger and then families go to a midnight Church service. After the Church service there are more fireworks to celebrate the start of Christmas. As well as the posada’s, another type of Christmas play known as Pastorelas (The Shepherds). These tell the story of the shepherds going to find the baby Jesus and are often very funny. The devil tries to stop them by tempting them along the way. But the shepherds always get there in the end, often with the help of the Archangel Michael, who comes and beats the devil! Nativity scenes, known as the ‘nacimiento’, are very popular in Mexico. They are often very large, with the figures being life size!

Sometimes a whole room in a house is used for the nacimiento, although this is less common now. The figures are often made of clay and are traditionally passed down through families. As well as the normal figures of the Mary, Joseph, Jesus, the Shepherds and Three Kings, there are often lots of other figures of different people, including women making tortillas, people selling food and different animals and birds, like flamingos! The figures can be bought from markets in cities all over Mexico.

The baby Jesus is normally added to the scene during the evening of Christmas Eve. The Three Kings are added at Epiphany. Christmas Eve is known as ‘Noche Buena’ and is a family day. People often take part in the final Posada and then in the evening have the main Christmas meal. At midnight, many people go to a Midnight Mass service, known as the ‘Misa de Gallo’ (Mass of the Rooster). There are lots of fireworks to celebrate Christmas Day.

People in Mexico also celebrate ‘los santos inocentes’ or ‘Day of the Innocent Saints’ on December 28th and it’s very much like April Fools Day in USA. In some areas in Mexico children expect Santa Claus to come on December 24th. In the south of Mexico children expect presents on January 6th at Epiphany, which is known as ‘el Dia de los Reyes’. On el Dia de los Reyes the presents are left by the Three Kings (or Magi). If you’ve had a visit from Santa on Christmas Eve, you might also get some candy on el Dia de los Reyes! It’s traditional to eat a special cake called ‘Rosca de Reyes’ (Three Kings Cake) on Epiphany. A figure of Baby Jesus is hidden inside the cake. Whoever has the baby Jesus in their piece of cake is the ‘Godparent’ of Jesus for that year. Another important day, is Candelaria (also known as Candlemas) on the 2nd February and it marks the end of the Mexican Christmas celebrations. Lots of Mexicans have a party for Candelaria, usually feasting on traditional tamales.

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Vallarta to host F big New Year’s Celebration

uerto Vallarta’s municipal government is preparing to have a great year-end with the arrival of thousands of visitors, who welcome the New Year in Puerto Vallarta. As part of these festivities, the Director of Municipal Tourism, Ramón González Lomelí, announced that the city will inaugurate information and tourist booths to help visitors in the certified Blue Flag beaches of Palmares, Camarones and Playa de Oro, Which will be added to the current booths on the Malecón, maritime terminal, Municipal Palace, Parque Hidalgo and Parque Lázaro Cárdenas. Through the month of December there are many events held in the city promoting local tourism including events at Lazaro Cardenas Park and Hidalgo Park as well as at the Los Arcos amphitheater. Gonzalez Lomeli explained that to close the year there will be a big party in the area of the Malecon that will include music and traditional fireworks. He said that it is of great interest for the Municipal President, Arturo Dávalos, that the residents enjoy in harmony of the New Year celebrations, and that tourist leave with a positive impression of the city.

ederal Secretary of Tourism Enrique de la Madrid Cordero presented the Viajemos Todos por México (Let’s All Travel In Mexico) and Mejora Tu Hotel (Improve Your Hotel) social tourism programs in the Riviera Nayarit. During the event held at the Marina Riviera Nayarit in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, Jorge Gómez, Secretary of the Government of Nayarit (representing Governor Roberto Sandoval); Omar Camarena, Secretary of State; and José Gómez, Mayor of Bahía de Banderas were present to welcome Mexico’s top tourism official and his associates. Important representatives from the hotel, academic and business sectors also attended the press conference. Enrique de la Madrid stated the Viajemos Todos por México program was a successful endeavor by the Federal Government. “This is more than a government program, this is a movement,” he declared. “We’d like to insist on the importance of businesses to play their part and that we look at it as an opportunity to create great packages for Mexicans, especially during the low season.” Among other things, he stressed the need for reasonable hotel rates and airfare and for the promotion of more travel among Mexican citizens—the idea is for those who already travel to do it more often, and for those haven’t had the opportunity to travel to be able do so. Regarding the Mejora Tu Hotel program, they stated it focused on expanding banking options so hoteliers can obtain credit with

Dec 22 - 28, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Social Tourism Programs in the Riviera Nayarit

competitive interest and installment plans, which were very difficult to obtain before. Tourism already represents 8.7% of Mexico’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This year’s data has registered approximately nine million Mexicans who work directly or indirectly within the industry, which is the country’s fastest growing economic sector. Thirty-five million foreign visitors visit the country each year, spending approximately

USD$19 billion. Domestic travel indicates 220 million trips within the country, pointing to the necessity of creating additional infrastructure. During the press conference it was also shared that four million visitors are expected to arrive this year at Puerto Vallarta’s Lic. Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport, which also connects them to the Riviera Nayarit—a number that will set a new record.

Night of the Radishes Festival in Oaxaca, Mexico

hile Canadians and Americans have pumpkins for Halloween, Oaxacans have the radish for Christmas! One of my favourite of the festivals and customs in Mexico, though unique to Oaxaca is the night of the Radishes. The Night of the Radishes is one of the most anticipated celebrations in Oaxaca. Every year, the humble radish is carved into beautiful, intricate sculptures of animals, dancers, saints, conquerors, kings and everything else imaginable. Once Oaxaca’s radish-artists are done with this vegetable, it barely resembles something you might eat at the dinner table. Nobody really knows how this festival started, although it is believed to have originated in 1897, when the then mayor of

the city started the first exhibition of radish art. In the last century, markets during Christmas eve

sold salt-dried fish and vegetables for customers coming out of the midnight mass. To differentiate the

items from one another, vendors sculpted their radishes into tiny figures, sometimes even decora-

ting them with other vegetables such as onions or lettuce. The radishes seemed to be a hit with the housewives then, as these women sought out the most interesting sculptures to add to the air of cheer to their Christmas tables. Every year since the first exhibition, the best displays receive cash prizes. Radish artists begin carving three days before the festival, which is held on December 23. Children are taught this unique craft on the morning of the festival itself. By the afternoon of the festival, the Zocalo is filled with contestants all eager to display their fabulous sculptures. Over time, some artists started toying with other vegetables such as flowers or corn husks for their masterpieces. By nighttime on the 23rd, the winners are announced but the celebrations are not yet over. Come December 24, the Zocalo comes to life again, this time with parades of floats designed by the many different churches in Oaxaca. Original: www.donquijote.org

Dec 22 - 28, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Santa and the Taxman

Orlando Gotay, Tax Attorney tax@orlandogotay.com

Orlando Gotay is a California licensed tax attorney (with a Master of Laws in Taxation) admitted to practice before the IRS, the U.S. Tax Court and other taxing agencies. His love of things Mexican has led him to devote part of his practice to the tax matters of U.S. expats in Mexico. He can be reached at tax@orlandogotay.com. This is solely informational, not legal advice; consult your advisor.

veryone loves gifts. You, me (thank you!) and the IRS. Yes, there is a federal gift tax. No need to panic…just read on and learn. Connecticut also has a gift tax. What’s a gift? It’s any property you give away without getting or expecting to get something of at least equal value back. You can see how a typical gift is a “gift”. Less obvious: items you sell at less than actual value, where you could be making a partial gift -the difference. Donors are on the hook for any gift tax due, not the person receiving gifts. Also, there is no income tax due by the person receiving the property. U.S. citizens and U.S. residents are subject to the gift tax. The annual exclusion from gift tax: you can make gifts to any person up to that amount, free of gift tax. For 2016 and 2017 the exclusion is $14,000. With your U.S. citizen spouse you could make a split gift to, say, your grandson, of up to $28,000 and not have to pay gift tax. Because the exclusion is annual, some people give one gift on Dec. 31, and another the day after that, taking advantage of both annual exclusions back to back.

Do you come from a community property state? If you gift community property, it must be split between spouses and a return filed even if no tax due. Some gifts can be excluded, such as those paid on behalf of an individual for educational or medical expenses. Gifts worth more than the exclusion amount must be reported on a gift tax return, as is gift “splitting” by spouses. Speaking of spouses, you can gift unlimited amounts to your U.S. citizen spouse. Notice I said citizen. If the spouse is not a citizen (such as a green card holder) there is an annual limit of $148,000. If on the other hand, your generous non-citizen spouse gifts you something valued at more than $100,000, you, the U.S. citizen, must report that gift with a special information return. No gift tax is due from a receiving a foreign gift, but there’s a hefty penalty if you don’t let the IRS know you got it. As you can see, gifts are ways in which you can express your love and affection, and also gradually distribute your estate during life, hopefully leaving less for Uncle Sam.

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Dec 22 - 28, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

My Life In Vallarta By Lois Ellison

loell87@yahoo.com

‘Tis The Season

t seems like only yesterday we were ringing in 2016, and now here we are with Christmas just a few short days away. Here in Mexico, the day is focused on family and faith, instead of rampant consumerism. Wandering around town you will see traditional decorations and maybe even encounter a posada. Squeals of delight ring out as children attack the ubiquitous piñatas. Baby Jesus will appear in nativity scenes on Christmas Eve and families will come together to pray and celebrate. Gifts for children are given on Three Kings Day in

January. What you won’t see is the struggle many of these people face on a daily basis just to put food on their tables and provide the essentials of life that most of take for granted. This notion was illustrated the other morning as we passed by one of the many constructions projects currently disrupting our tranquility. It was early. Workers had started to arrive and were waiting to begin their day. Even though it would be hours before the sales office opened, it was lit up revealing fine furnishings and several screens with continuous video showing how the luxurious condos would look when finished.

A couple of workers sat mesmerized by those videos. One can only imagine what was running through their minds. This was a lifestyle they would never attain, let alone even imagine. After toiling ceaselessly day after day on this project, they return to their homes and a lifestyle YOU cannot imagine. Some live in houses with dirt floors. Some have no hot water. Some have huge families crammed into only one or two rooms. Many exist on the edge of poverty. I think you get the picture. Are you wondering what this has to do with Christmas?

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Maybe you are staying in a hotel or condo where maid service is provided. Consider leaving her a generous tip. It may help her to buy a small gift for her child or buy some food. When you are shopping, show your appreciation to the person who bags your groceries by giving them a tip of ten pesos or more. These people are either senior citizens or school age children who receive no wages and rely solely on the kindness of customers like you.

Look around you. Every day that you here enjoying yourself, whether it is for a week or for six months, there are dozens of people working hard to make it memorable and comfortable for you. Most of them do this for minimum wage (which in January goes up to

a whopping $8 per DAY) but some have no guaranteed income, and must rely on sales they make while wandering the beach or tips they may be fortunate enough to receive. The gulf between our lifestyle and theirs is enormous and never more so than during the holidays.

Dec 22 - 28, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

These are just a few examples of the people who can benefit from a small act of generosity. There are countless ways in which you can make a huge difference in someone’s life, with little cost to yourself. While I’m on the subject of cost, we all hear the cries of “two for one” and “almost free” as we wander about town. Well, with the exchange rates of today, especially for the US dollar, things are literally almost free. At the same time, inflation has started

creeping into the daily lives of our hosts. This really is not the time to hunt for the best bargain. You are already getting a terrific bargain. And always remember, if you see a price tag on something on a shop, it isn’t appropriate to haggle. We’re all here as guests in this fantastic piece of paradise. Doesn’t it make sense to improve the quality of life for those around us? So this holiday season and beyond, dig deep. After all, ‘tis the season.

A true neighborhood bar! The “CHEERS” of PV with daily specials, all the sports, live music, pool table, events and much more!

Don’t forget the KIDS!

Drop off your Christmas presents! We are expecting over 500 children this year. Aquiles Serdan # 625 Col. Emiliano Zapata Phone: 223-4006 michael@quepasavallarta.com quepasavallarta.com

2 x 1 on all Food from 4 to 6 pm with this ad

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Medical

Dec 22 - 28, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Are the resolutions

from your annual HOA meeting enforceable?

Matters Pam Thompson

Roberto Ortiz de Montellano Farias

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

Roberto Ortiz de Montellano is a Mexican-Licensed Attorney at Law with over twenty years of professional legal experience. He started his own practice in Puerto Vallarta two years ago. His areas of expertise focuses primarily on Real Estate Law, Business Law and Estate Planning. www.ortizdemontellano.com

roberto@ortizdemontellano.com

pamela@healthcareresourcespv.com

Pick your Passion – Charitable Giving

here is a vast difference between the “public sector” and the “private sector” when it comes to hospital and medical services. The Regional Hospital is the state-run hospital and sadly, they lack sufficient resources to serve the underprivileged population of our area. The staff do the very best that they can with the meager supplies that they receive. I think that they can do more with duct tape than anyone I know. They serve an overwhelming amount of people from the critically ill to the massive amount of newborns that are born there. You will often see in my newsletters and my Facebook page requests for items as well as photos of some of the donations that many kind-hearted people bring to my office. I thave someone from the Regional Hospital that I know pick up and take the items to Regional where they are distributed by the staff there. I am not big on handing out donations to people personally as I believe that these folks should be able to keep as much pride as possible. Patients there need to have someone provide them with soap, shampoo – absolute basics. Many of the newborns don’t even have a receiving blanket or “onsie” to go home in. So, in my heart I have no doubt that when a patient receives a small packet of hygiene supplies or a new mother receives a couple of newborn outfits and a baby blanket, this will not “fix” their economic situation but it most certainly will be very much appreciated at the moment. The ladies that give me boxes of crocheted/knitted newborn hats or the quilted baby blankets have made these with love in their hands and hearts and I like to think that the receiving person knows this.

The same goes for the soap, shampoo, washcloths, deodorant and everything else that these kindhearted folks donate. We are always in need of medical supplies as well, from bandages to diabetic supplies. During the holiday season, as is common every year, donations for nearly all charities increase and of course, toys for kids (which is great by the way) but I like to try to remind people that items are needed year round – not just at the holidays. I have way more ideas than I do time but I would so very much like to put a group of people together who would be willing to “lend a hand” at various times. Whether it be going to visit someone who is at Regional and has no family/friends, take a few supplies, chat a bit, to perhaps assisting a spouse of a patient in one of the private hospitals as well; maybe take them to lunch or offering to drive them to do errands. Oftentimes these folks are tourists who came here for a dream vacation and one of them ends up being critically ill, leaving the partner/spouse pretty much lost. Of course I do what I can to assist but sometimes they need a “non-medical” person to chat with, hang out with. If you would be interested in assisting once in a while please do email me. You will hear me say “pick your passion” when it comes to charitable organizations here. There are many deserving groups and organizations! And bless them all! I do hope that the act of giving can be carried throughout the year and not just during the holidays. You are welcome to email me directly for our “Wish List”. “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.” - Dr. Seuss Have a merry week!

OA season is just around the corner. It is that time of the year when you’ll discuss with your fellow neighbors how your homeowners’ association will be administrated in 2017 and who will be in charge of this administration. This discussion will take place at your annual homeowners’ ordinary meeting. The Mexican law requires for this ordinary meeting to take place during the first trimester of the year. At this ordinary meeting, specific issues should be addressed and voted on. It is extremely important that the result of the voting and the resolutions are properly reflected in the minutes from your homeowners’ meeting. If this is not the case, you can then have problems trying to enforce the resolutions from your homeowners’ ordinary meeting. So what should the minutes from a homeowners’ ordinary meeting include? The Civil Code for the State of Jalisco establishes that a homeowners’ ordinary meeting should deal with the following items: The general financial report on the condominium for the previous year, The election of the members of the Board of Directors, The appointment of the Administrator, and The approval of the income and expense budget for the following year. In the minutes, the full names of the

Francisco I. Madero # 396 (Corner of Aguacate) Tel. (322) 223 2995 eye-metrics@hotmail.com Col. Emiliano Zapata, Puerto Vallarta, Jal.

members of the Board of Directors should be included. The same applies for the Administrator since these two bodies will have the legal representation of the HOA. It is also extremely important that the income and expense budgets are included on a spreadsheet as an addendum to the minutes. This way you’ll be able to prove how much a homeowner is obligated to pay in dues for the following year and how much the Administrator was allowed to spend. So my homeowners’ ordinary meeting took place and I have the minutes, what’s next? The minutes should be in Spanish and they should be signed by whoever acted as President and Secretary at the meeting. Then the minutes should be notarized and recorded in the Public Registry of Property. Once you have concluded this last part, your minutes are completely legal and can be enforced against any homeowner, the Administrator or a third party. Having an organized HOA is not easy, there are many interests involved and reaching a consensus is a very difficult task. This is one of the reasons why the resolutions from your HOA meeting should be clearly written and notarized. This way they are legal, and you can have some peace of mind about the way your HOA is managed.

Mega Comercial Bucerías 2A (Frente a Cajas) Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit Tel. (329) 298 0760 eye-metrics@prodigy.net.mx

local

From Here

Paradise

and Parenting

Marcia Blondin

Leza Warkentin

marciavallarta@gmail.com

mommyinmexico.wordpress.com

Christmas Wishes

ell, it’s that most wonderful time of the year again, known to some people as “Christmas” and know to me as “The First Day of My Winter Break”. I celebrate this time of the year by a) staying in my yoga pants for at least twenty-four hours without once doing yoga b) baking chocolate chip mint cookies “for the children” while conveniently forgetting that I’m the only one who likes mint in the cookies and c) trying to avoid leaving the house under any circumstances. While I love having these two weeks as a break from my job and, more importantly, a break from making school lunches, I find it difficult to really decompress those first few days. I become aware that a huge chunk of my identity, or at least the chunk that is organized and somewhat logical, is tied into my career. I become listless, a little short-tempered and a lot impatient with everyone around me. I lose at table games like Clue. I burn dinner or salt it to the point of inedibility. I pull all the clothing out of the closets in order to organize them, but lose interest halfway through folding The Boy’s t-shirt collection. It’s important to get into the happy holiday groove as quickly as possible, because the break is short and the kids will remember vividly and forever the Christmases that you ruin. Our family has certain holiday traditions that help us maintain the happy memories even when there are piles of clothing on the floor and we’ve gone out for pizza for the third night in a row. These include: Long, intricate fabrications about why Santa can’t bring an Xbox One to our house, but does indeed bring them to a few of our friends’ houses. This year there will be an extra chapter on why Santa’s gifts are late this year that has to do with some of Santa’s elves who went rogue and are now spreading mischief all along the Mexican/American border. Baking and decorating Santa’s favorite cookies which coincidentally are also Mom’s favorite cookies.

Dec 22 - 28, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Vegetarian Christmas dinner which my parents always say they enjoy very much. Oddly, this year they couldn’t find a single flight before Christmas Eve, so they’ll be having the turkey with my brother this year. They were able to sound upbeat about it, though, the troopers. Beach day on Christmas day, partly to escape our now trash-littered home, and also because I like to send photos to our Canadian relatives who are all housebound due to the -42 wind chill. A family photo with Santa Claus at Galerias, which is now almost impossible to achieve. This is because The Boy and The Girl are at a stage of emotional development where it’s very uncool to be seen photographed with either Santa Claus or parents. Someday it will work out again, once they are old enough to find it ironically stylish. At that point I am hoping to find matching ugly Christmas sweaters. Christmas movies that are now overwhelmingly chosen based on hilarity rather than sentimentality. I want to get all nostalgic and teary over The Polar Express, It’s a Wonderful Life and A Christmas Carol (what’s more Christmas than Dickens, for heaven’s sake?), and the rest of the crew out-votes me for National Lampoon’s Christmas, Elf and Home Alone. By the way, did you know there’s an even more violently painful sequel to Home Alone? Don’t worry, I won’t tell your kids. However you spend your holiday season, I hope it’s happy. From my family to all of you and yours, I wish you a very happy holiday and the warmest of season’s greetings. I wish you a Christmas movie marathon that is free of swinging paint cans and people falling heavily from ladders. I wish you a beach day next to a palm tree, watching Santa parasail. I wish you a family photo where at least 60% of the people are actually looking at the camera. I wish you all the light of this holiday season. May you avoid stepping on the Christmas Lego, may your eggnog be Kirkland and may your heart be full of the love of those who surround you.

ave you ever gone for a walk in the evening and noticed all the paintings half tucked under the pedestrian bridge? They are all different sizes, subjects, painters and prices. All of the artists are approachable and most are eager to paint what you want so if you see something that comes close to what you are looking for, talk to them! Almost all of them speak English. The artistic abilities run the gamut from primary school-level to the Sistine Chapel so there are bound to be fabulous paintings to discover! While we are on the subject of artists, I stopped in to chat with Joan Kagan at Red Gate Pottery on Lazaro Cardenas. In the course of a few minutes, Joan made two bowls and didn’t drop a vowel in the process. Amazing to watch a potter at work; they seemingly don’t need eyes; just their fingers gently touching and pushing, dipping into water on occasion and then the wheel stops turning and a bowl exists where a lump of clay was minutes before. Amazing. And beautiful. And no, she will NOT teach me! I shall have to be content with purchasing Joan’s finely crafted ‘objets’. A quick note as I blew through the Olas Altas Farmers Market on Saturday – Mark Hughes will have mincemeat pies this coming weekend. Mark makes mincemeat once a year and he begins the process using a recipe from 1830 that advises starting the mix THREE MONTHS before Christmas and also insists on weekly top-ups of BRANDY: Start queuing….N O W. Tracy Parks is closer than ever to opening his theatre, ‘Incanto’, on the Rio Cuale. This multi-level indoor/outdoor space will have a soundproof theatre, a couple of places to eat and drink including a piano bar. It will be stylish and comfortable; the menu promises good, simple fare at affordable prices. The setting on the river could not be more tranquil. Inside, where the dust is currently still flying, local photographer Mike Laking will show his extraordinary work for the coming year. Some of the performers expected early January are well known to local ex-pats; others flying in from Europe are relatively unknown in Vallarta but quite famous in their respective countries. More information as it becomes leak-

able. (By the way, many thanks to Tracy Parks who gave me a quick tour because I mentioned I might have to tear down the black out curtains to see what the hell was going on inside his building I pass by every day!) Had lunch with Georgia Darehshori at ‘La Penita’ last Saturday. This small, bright eatery has been open for a couple of months. Located only a block from the beach/ Parque Lazaro Cardenas, the menu is varied with specials posted daily on outdoor chalkboards. There is even a kid’s menu! Georgia had battered shrimp with a variety of dipping sauces and I, too, had shrimp but bathed in garlic and olive oil and served with fresh parmesan over spaghetti. Delicious – both plates. It seems a slightly out-of-the-way place. It isn’t, geographically, it just feels “far from the madding crowd”. ‘La Penita’ is a clean, tastefully decorated place to stop, drop your bags and breathe; eat well, have a cold beer or margarita and carry on with your day. On that well-fed note; that’s it From Here.

local

Dec 22 - 28, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Vibrant Living Marcella Castellanos

marcella@marcellacastellanos.com

Marcella is a bilingual certified wellness lifestyle coach. Her mission is to help you gain more energy, adapt healthier habits, improve digestion and look and feel your best. She offers personalized coaching and group programs helping you incorporate clean eating, movement, and essential oils to support physical and emotional health. To receive health and wellness updates about natural, healthy living in Vallarta sign up for her newsletter at www.marcellacastellanos.com.

Holiday Love Blend

ith the holidays in full swing, one of my all- time favorites ever is pumpkin pie! But I have to keep my eyes and tummy in check or I will start the New Year feeling sorry that I added extra pounds. If you’re like me, you love the cheer and abundance of spirit that come with the holidays. To bring the pumpkin pie flavor alive and invigorate memories of family gatherings and love in the air, here is a healthier version in a fun smoothie recipe that will be

kind to your waistline: The first fruit ingredient calls for mamey, which grows in abundance in tropical climates such as this one. It’s very sweet and has similarities to a sweet potato or pumpkin. It looks similar to a potato before it’s cut open and when cut open, it’s as orange as a pumpkin. Enjoy this comforting, spicy holiday treat: 8 ounces (236 ml) unsweetened almond milk* 2 cups baby spinach 1/2 a mamey or 1/2 cup pure canned pumpkin 1 cup fresh or frozen mango or even banana if you prefer

2- 3 tablespoons peanut or almond butter 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon cinnamon Ice if needed First, add the liquid to the blender, then the spinach, then mamey or pumpkin. Next add the nut butter, then mango, then the seasonings. Blend for about 45 seconds to 1 minute until creamy. If it’s too thick add about 2 oz. of water. Remember to explore and adjust to your liking! Happy Holidays! If you would like to gain more energy,

lose unwanted pounds that seem to hold you back, sleep better, lose the bloat and feel healthier and sexier this New Year, go to my Facebook page: Marcella Castellanos and sign up for the FREE 7 Day Skinny Black Dress Challenge! I’m so excited to be leading a group of women looking for positive change in their life through this challenge to start the New Year right. There will be free bonuses and giveaways with this challenge, too! Invite a friend, and let’s do this!!

Creative hands of Mexico Leigh Thelmadatter

osomadre@hotmail.com

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

The whackable icon

ew things identify Mexico like the piñata does. Believe it or not, the traditional piñata is a syncretism between the Orient (via Europe) and indigenous traditions. The modern Mexican piñata has its origins in the early colonial period, but there are a number of cultures which have similar traditions. Before the arrival of the Spanish, both the Mayans and the Aztecs had rituals in which an old, decorated, pot filled with offerings would be broken for a deity. The Mayan tradition even had those breaking the pot blindfolded. The European tradition came to the continent from China, and was there associated with Lent, not Christmas. In the very early colonial period, the Spanish would co-opt certain native traditions and give them Christian meanings. The pot offering among the Aztecs was for the god Huitzilopochtli, whose birthday was celebrated in December. It was not difficult to make the shift from an offering for an infant god to an offering for the coming Baby Jesus. The first record of the now-familiar Mexican tradition is from 1586 at the monastery of Acolman, State of Mexico, an hour or so north of Mexico City. For this reason, this small town, with a wonderfully preserved 16th century structure, is considered the birthplace of the Mexican piñata. The first piñatas were decorated clay pots, with cardboard cones and crepe paper covering them. The original tradition put seven cones/points on the pot to represent the Seven Deadly Sins and used as an evangelization tool. The person hitting with a stick represents the struggle against evil, the blindfold represented faith and the breaking and falling of the goodies

G TM REAT AS GIF T

RIS

represented the rewards of heaven for defeating evil. Now with between five and nine points, the traditional piñata has lost its evangelical aspect, and is most commonly seen in December during the Posadas, small neighborhood plays which reenact the search of Mary and Joseph to find lodging in Bethlehem before the birth of Jesus. Piñatas can still be made with pots (with a particular oblong type favored for the purpose), but almost all piñatas are now made using paper mache (cartonería), which is lighter, cheaper and safer upon breaking. The making and breaking of piñatas is found all other Mexico and in parts of the United States, especially in areas with large Mexican populations. Piñatas have also become popular for birthdays, in part because the use of paper mache allows for the making of a wide variety of shapes, with cartoon figures being particularly popular among children. But the ninepointed piñatas of the Posadas, remain the most traditional and the most meaningful.

SEX PLEASE WE’RE SIXTY IDE

AN AMERICAN FARCE by Michael Parker & Susan Parker

COMEDY DINNER THEATRE FOR CHARITY DATES: FEBRUARY 28, MARCH 1, 5, 7, 8 2017 TIMES: 4 evening performances, 1 matinee on Sunday, March 5 LOCATION: Restaurante Langosta DIEZ, La Cruz Centro DONATION TICKET PRICE: front row table reserved 800 MXN, general table 500 MXN, theatre seating 250 MXN PROCEEDS GO TO: benefit Amigos de La Cruz de Huancaxtle, A.C.

To buy tickets and for more information visit:

www.amigosdelacruz.org

AMIGOS

DE LA CRUZ

PRODUCED BY SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT WITH SAMUEL FRENCH, INC. w w w. a m i g o s d e l a c r u z . o rg

Johnny Cash The Man In Black”

entertainment

Dec 22 - 28, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Three Hens & a Rooster Market

Merv Buchanan merv@uvs.com

I J

ohnny Cash, the legendary “man in black” was a giant in country music, as well as one of the founding fathers of rock’n’roll. His highly personal songs, like “I Walk The Line” and “Folsom Prison Blues”, about subjects anyone could relate to, were delivered in terms everyone could understand. He is a long-standing member of both the country and rock’n’roll hall of fame. In 1971, his image as “the common man who cares” was solidified forever by his hit song “Man In Black”. He was born dirt poor in Arkansas, one of seven children, in 1932. As a child, he worked in the cotton fields, went to school and absorbed the variety of music he heard in church and on the family radio. Upon graduating from high school, he moved to Michigan and worked at an auto plant, until he joined the air force, in 1950. In 1954, after serving overseas, he left the air force, got married and moved to Memphis. Here he worked as an appliance salesman, played his guitar when he could, and developed his narrative song-writing style. In 1955, he formed “The Tennessee Three”, with guitarist Luther Perkins and bassist Marshall Grant and signed with Sun records. His first record “Hey Porter”, released the same year, was a modest hit. But his 1956 follow-up, “I walk The Line”, featuring his deep baritone drawl and simple “chick-a-boom, chick-a-boom” rhythm, made him a household name. His unique sound, dark, brooding looks and hell-raising reputation made him an icon, the original “country music outlaw”. He left Sun in 1958 for Columbia Records, where he remained for almost 30 years. During the sixties, in a swirl of infidelity, alcoholism and drug addiction, his career, marriage and personal life fell apart. But at his lowest point, he met June Carter, of the famous Carter Family, probably the earliest, successful country/bluegrass music groups. They were instant soul mates. But his bad

reputation made her afraid to get close to him, for fear of getting burned. Her feelings at the time made abundantly clear in the song “Ring Of Fire” which she co-wrote with Merle Kilgore. The song was first recorded by her sister Anita. But when Cash heard it, he insisted on recording it too, racking up another monster hit in the process. Cash and Carter were married in 1968. From the start, June made it her life’s work to save Johnny from himself. But it was no easy task. She would flush his drugs down the toilet and they would argue for hours over it. He would promise not to do it again, but a few days later, he would come home, or worse yet, stumble onto a concert stage, stoned out of his mind. This went on for years, but June’s dedication finally paid off and Cash's life and career were finally turned around. Through it all, Cash’s popularity as a concert attraction flourished. His live concert album “San Quentin” introduced us to “A Boy Named Sue” the biggest hit of his career. Who can forget poetry like “kickin’ and a’gougin in the mud and the blood and the beer”? There was also “The Johnny Cash Show”, on ABC and a Grammy for his contributions to Bob Dylan’s “Nashville Skyline” album. In the eighties he toured and recorded with Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings and Kris Kristofferson, as The Highwaymen. He also toured with The Carter Family until the late nineties, while recording a series of “roots music” albums for the American Recordings label. His career was fittingly capped in 2002 by his heart-wrenching music video for the Nine Inch Nails’ song “Hurt”, for which he won a Grammy and the “MTV Video Of The Year” award. Not too shabby for a 70 year old. John R. Cash passed away on September 12th, 2003. More than 1,000 fans and music industry people attended his funeral, near his home in Hendersonville, Tennessee. He was laid to rest next to June Carter Cash, his wife of 34 years, who passed away just 4 months earlier.

f you love slightly worn cotton denim clothes; you have to visit Carol-lynn’s “tattered couture” boutique, upstairs at Three Hens Market. She embellishes skirts, jeans and shorts with bits of lace and ribbons and bows. Comfortable and different. She also carries some vintage skirts that have just arrived in time for Christmas. Also, check Carol-lynn’s new mirrors; decorated with flight of fancy. Pat Wagner – whose freshly-grated horseradish has folks lining up to buy it – has made “everything peanut” for this week but will not say exactly what she will have. Not content with her black bean salsa, corn salsa and jalapeno jam, she is introducing two different kinds of soup. Again, she’s not giving up any

info so drop by Three Hens for food surprises this last Saturday Market before Christmas! Pat knows she has an abundance of fabric wine (or vodka, or rum…) bags that give “taking a bottle” to a party a lot of panache. Marcia has a couple of fine leather coats and jackets. If you are heading to Guadalajara or other destinations away from the beach; they are priced to sell quickly! Half of the Fabulous Fabric Fellows are making Christmas wreaths like crazy; the minute one gets done it’s sold so hurry down this Saturday and make your front door festive. Three Hens and a Rooster Market is every Saturday and Wednesday from 9 to 1 at Venustiano Carranza 466.

Unite in the movement

# sinpopote

Daily we use 500,000,000 popotes (straws) 1 person will use 38,000 popotes in their lifetime. In Mexico 95% are non-recyclable Taking over 100 years to biodegrade.

Please take care of your environment and stop using straws. The next time you order a drink, say “sin popote, por favor.”

entertainment

Dec 22 - 28, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

The Boutique Theater – Comings and Goings This Week and the Next

Marcia Blondin

marciavallarta@gmail.com Comings…. The Boutique Theatre is bowing out of 2016 with an encore performance of ‘Love Letters’ starring founders/directors Ken and Karrie Sebryk. If you missed this bittersweet, romantic, almost-true-love story, do go and see it. Especially if you know and love Ken and Karrie (who among us does not?), the characters they portray are so NOT them and they are utterly believable as such misguided creatures. ‘Love Letters’ will run December 29, 30 and 31st. In the meantime, there is one more weekend of ‘A Christmas Carol’, adapted by T.J. Hartung. From all reports, Mr. Dickens would be delighted! Christmas is coming to Casa Karma on the night of the 24th. Owner Georgia Darehshori tells me there are a few choice seats left for this extravagant evening full of great music provided by one of the world’s most recognised jazz pianists, Ms. Janette Mason. Kim Kuzma will sing as only she can – her voice powerful with perfect control. Her nearly four-octave range can pick you from up from your seat and she can and will set you down gently when she purrs like a kitten. Dynamic - is Kim - in one word. I forgot! Beautiful, too, sorry! This incredible evening under the stars is being catered by Celebrations Vallarta…you have to look at the menu that you’ll find next to Casa Karma’s invitation in this issue. Nobody in Vallarta does food quite like Jim Lee. He is brilliant. If you are concerned about drinking and driving – and you should be – Casa Karma is offering free transportation from town. There is also a big toy drive happening all week at Casa Karma. You are welcome to drop any toys off anytime to Casa Kar-

ma’s street/highway-level lobby. They will be distributed to the children of the city’s dump. And, of course, with Christmas falling on a Sunday, what better place to have a ‘Bloody Merry’ than the Bloody Bar at Casa Karma with all the elegant, outrageously great offerings you can stuff into your glass? Like shrimp, asparagus, crispy bacon and…I am jumping too far ahead! Now you know where to go for Christmas Eve. See you there! And Goings… The Tribune held their Christmas Posada last weekend. A lot of the people responsible for creating the newspaper you are holding in your hands or reading online were there. We ate excellent tacos al pastor, the Coronitas were chillin’ on ice and everyone received a lovely gift. Viva la Tribuna! Back to the Boutique Theatre for the nicest Christmas concert I have been to in decades. What a superb job everyone did; I sat up in the balcony for the first time and had an unimpeded view of the whole theatre and the acoustics were just fine. I am hoping for this to be an annual event; there’s a broad hint to everyone who was involved – Syng Choir, Time 2 Play and to all their guests who truly wowed a packed house. Do this again. The production quality was super with musicians and choir members moving on and off the stage with ease; everyone knew their places, the smiles from the singers and their truly lovely voices poured out gifts of love to their audience. We, who were there, were well and truly blessed. Thank you all from our hearts to yours.

n original twist on Charles Dickens’ classic, “A Christmas Carol,” is set to perform Dec. 22, 23 and 24, closing Christmas Eve. T.J. Hartung, a long-time contributor to Puerto Vallarta theater, has adapted the timeless holiday story. It is presented as a radio-style show, set in the 1970s, somewhere in Middle America. The cost is just $200 pesos, as The Boutique’s holiday gift to you and yours. The show stars Stephen Dellinger, Amy Frank, Steve Jackson, and Catherine Beeghly. Mikki Prost continues her new show, an original tribute to Brenda Lee. “Little Miss Dynamite: The Life and Times of Brenda Lee,” performs at 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays, Dec. 21; and, on Jan. 4, 11, and 18. On Wednesday, Dec. 28, meet the PV band “Time 2 Play” and friends for an original Open-Mic variety show at 7 p.m. Admission is just 50 pesos. To round out the year, Ken and Karrie Sebryk, founding directors of The Boutique, will give three encore performances of “Love Letters” on Dec. 29, 30 and 31. Reviewer Marcia Blondin called it “a tour de force in both their careers – they invoked smiles and laughter, wistfulness and pain, and poked hard at that peculiar longing each of us has close to our hearts … that love will conquer all, and knowing intellectually that, of course, it cannot.” January 2017 Lynne Dellinger will direct the play “The Kitchen Witches,” Jan. 5-14. The hilarious comedy, about two long-time cooking show rivals, stars Cat Meders, Alice Averett, Joe Murphy and Robert Grant. Auditions will be held in late January for a Broadway-style review, directed by Ralph Hyman. Auditioners will be asked to sing their favorite Broadway show for consideration. From Jan. 26-Feb. 11, Dana Zeller presents her original cabaret show, “Women on the Edge: Songs from Broadway and Beyond.” February 2017 The popular band “Time 2 Play” returns to the stage for several engagements throughout the season. Don’t miss their sell-out shows celebrating love for Valen-

tine’s Day, Feb. 13 and 14. Feb. 16-25, the singing group Vallarta Vocalistas Ensemble takes the stage. The Boutique is proud to be Vallarta’s exclusive venue for the return of blues legend Tim Williams. His shows, highlighting his amazing guitar and story-telling talents, will be Feb. 28, and March 14. New in 2017: Opportunities for personal growth Eight live presentations by Vallarta thinkers and performers are planned in Tuesday TED talks, from 10 a.m. to noon. “Many Malalas: The Courageous Pursuit of Education in Pakistan” with Millard Mott, Jan. 10. “Psychopaths Who Walk Among Us” with Miriam Green, Jan. 24. “Telepathy, Synchronicity and the Afterlife,” Jerry Kroth, Feb. 7. “Own Your Own Voice,” Marc Zeller, Feb. 21. “Creative Living: A Work in Progress,” Dan Grippo, March 7. “Diary of a Dairy Queen and Spicy Tales from the Taco Belle,” Joanna and Chi Chi Rones, March 21. “Artificial Intelligence: Opportunity and Threat,” John Wilson-Bugbee, April 4. “American Journey: Tales from a Troubadour,” Larry Long, April 18. The series is produced by Norma Schuh. Tickets cost $250 pesos per session. The Boutique Dinner Theatre offers exciting evenings of dinner-and-a-show options. The theatre is located upstairs at Nacho Daddy, 287 Basilio Badillo. Delicious threecourse dinners are served at 5 p.m., with the shows at 6 p.m. On Wednesdays only, the shows start at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $250 pesos for the show only; or $525 pesos for dinner and the show. For information call 322-192-4616. On Mondays, enjoy free Nacho Daddy Karaoke from 7-11 p.m., with your hosts in song, Fast Eddie and Catherine Beeghly.

entertainment

Dec 22 - 28, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Amberley Beatty A Multi-Talented Canadian Entertainer Merv Buchanan merv@uvs.com

opular Canadian entertainer Amberley Beatty is well known in Canada and the US for her tribute shows “The legendary Patsy Cline”, “Honky Tonk Gal” (Loretta Lynn) and “When Girls Ruled The Radio” (a tribute to the female pop stars of the 50s and 60s), as well as her appearances, as herself, at dances, concerts, conventions and rodeos. She is also an emerging recording artist, currently working on her 5th album. This new album, for Calgary-based Trend Records, will feature all original songs, a first for the artist. Her 2015 cover of Hank Cochran's classic “She's Got You”, a song made famous by the late Patsy Cline, was popular with Canadian country and easy listening radio programmers. And her recent concert tours from Saskatchewan to Cape Breton Island were usually sellouts, as was her Patsy Cline show last winter, at The Luna lounge, in Bucerias. Some entertainers are quick describe tribute artists as “just karaoke singers”, but that is an unfair label. Karaoke singers don't need to look, sound and act like the artist who's songs they sing. And they don't need to

know the words. To pay a convincing tribute to a famous star, a tribute artist must know the star's repertoire inside out, as well as sound, look and dress like the star, often with the help of elaborate costumes, makeup and wigs. Amberley Beatty's experience as a Shakespearean actress, bandleader, hairstylist and fashion model provides some insight into what it takes to be successful in this field. Getting into character is an important part of being a convincing tribute artist. More than simply singing like the star the artist is paying tribute to, re-creating the speech patterns, accent, body language and performance style is what causes an audience to “temporarily suspend its disbelief”. In fact, successful tribute artists are able to transport an audience back in time, or to anywhere from a Kentucky barn dance to a beach party in Key West. Audiences everywhere agree that this particular ability is one that Amberley Beatty is especially adept at. Vintage rock'n'roll and country music has a huge following among the many Americans

and Canadians who spend their winters in Mexico and Amberley Beatty's various shows fit squarely into this category. As popular as indigenous music is here, most visitors also enjoy some “music from home”. So it comes as no surprise that Amberley's shows draw very well both here and what Canadian TV funnymen Bob and Doug MacKenzie called “the great white north”. From the music of the 50's and 60's on into the 21st century, Amberley Beatty's talent, versatility, enthusiasm and pure show-

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manship have made her one of Canada's leading tribute artists. But only after years of paying her dues in dance halls, hockey rinks and theatres across the continent. These days, her endless stream of bookings keeps her away from her young family more than she likes. But she wisely looks upon it as the price of success. The intrepid Ms. Beatty will be visiting Banderas Bay to perform early in the new year. Information about her upcoming performances will be available in this paper.

Christmas

Eve

Concert Under the Stars at Casa K

Christmas

Concert Under the Stars at Casa Karma

FOOD PRESENTATIONS

Christmas Eve 2016

Concert Under the Stars at Casa Karma Passed Hors d’oeuvres at Cocktail Hour

Succulent Brown Butter Seared Lobster Christmas EveSpoons 2016 with an Avocad FOOD PRESENTATIONS *

Peppercorn Beef Tenderloin Bruschetta topped with Shaved Bleu Cheese & Roasted

Passed Hors d’oeuvres at Cocktail HourFOOD PRESENTATIONS

Smoked Salmon Wonton Cups with Sweet Lemon Crème Fraiche, Caramelized Red Succulent Brown Butter Seared Lobster Spoons with an Avocado Salsa * *

HerbHors Crusted ForksHour with a Rosemary-Mint Essence d’oeuvresLamb at Chipotle Cocktail Peppercorn Beef Tenderloin Bruschetta topped with Shaved Bleu Cheese &Passed Roasted Raspberry Glaze * * Succulent Brown Butter Seared Lobster Spoons with an Avocado Salsa Fried Country Brie with a Wild Fig & Candied Pecan Drizzle Smoked Salmon Wonton Cups with Sweet Lemon Crème Fraiche, Caramelized Red Onion &* Caviar Confetti * Peppercorn Beef Tenderloin Bruschetta topped with Shaved Bleu Cheese & Roasted Raspberry Chipotle Glaze * Herb Crusted Lamb Forks with a Rosemary-Mint Essence * Smoked Salmon Wonton Cups with Sweet Lemon Crème Fraiche,served CaramelizedDuring Red Onion & Caviar Confetti Tapas Plate Intermission Featuring traditional favorites, not so traditional holiday jazz * Fried Country Brie with a Wild Fig & Candied Pecan Drizzle Crispy Boneless Short Rib & Sweet Potato Skewer with Garlic & Swee and original Christmas songs written by Herb Crusted Lamb Forks with a Rosemary-Mint Essence *

JAZZ

world renowned

Blackened Snapper Medallion with Pink Champagne-Roasted Red Grape & F Fried Country Brie with a Wild Fig & Candied Pecan Drizzle *

Tapas Plate served During Intermission

The Ultimate Caprese Endive Spoon with Grey Goose-Infused Pear Pianist Crispy Boneless Short Rib & Sweet Potato Skewer with Garlic & Sweet Chile Jam

Janette Mason

the incomparable songstress

Fresh Mozzarella, Hearts of Palm and Chive Garnish. Topped with Dueling Drizzle *

Tapas Plate servedBasil DuringTangle Intermission Snapper Medallion with Pink Champagne-Roasted Red Grape & Fresh KimBlackened Kuzma Crispy Boneless Short Rib & Sweet Potato Skewer with Garlic & Sweet Chile Jam *

The Ultimate Caprese Endive Spoon with Grey Goose-Infused Pear Tomatoes, *

Dessert Martini Station

SATURDAY DECEMBER 24

FreshatMozzarella, Hearts of Palm and Chive Garnish. ToppedBlackened with Dueling Drizzle Peso & Balsamic Snapper Medallion withofPinkBasil Champagne-Roasted Red Grape & Fresh Basil Tangle Doors open 8:00pm A Bananas Foster Martini served with Vanilla Custard, Frosted Cranberries & *

The Ultimate Caprese Endive Spoon with Grey Goose-Infused Pear Tomatoes,

TICKETS $2500 PESOS / $125 USD TICKETS INCLUDE: OPEN PREMIUM BAR FABULOUS FOOD BY CELEBRATIONS VALLARTA COMPLIMENTARY TRANSPORTATION FROM THE MARINA AND EL CENTRO A Bananas Foster & VALET PARKING

Mozzarella, Hearts of Palm and Chive Garnish. Topped with Dueling Drizzle of Basil Peso & Balsamic Dessert MartiniFreshStation Martini served with Vanilla Custard, Frosted Cranberries & Amaretto Chocolate

Dessert Martini Station A Bananas Foster Martini served with Vanilla Custard, Frosted Cranberries & Amaretto Chocolate TOY COLLECTION SANTA’S HELPERS WILL BE COLLECTING TOYS FOR CHRISTMAS AT THE DUMP

FOR TICKETS OR MORE INFORMATION:

322-221-6047 • info@casakarma.net

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Dec 22 - 28, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Mexican sanctuary: Puerto Vallarta maintain By John Gottberg Anderson

atch a cruise boat west from this tropical Mexican resort town, and in an hour you’ll be in a place where you can snorkel or kayak with dolphins and giant sea turtles. Parque Nacional Islas Marietas (Marieta Islands National Park) is a true treasure of Mexico’s Pacific coast. Yet these rocky volcanic islets at the mouth of Banderas Bay, near Punta de Mita, are too often overlooked by visitors to Puerto Vallarta. I made travel arrangements for a day’s trip with Vallarta Adventures, the leading tour provider in this Jalisco city of 300,000. The Marieta Islands are a 35,000-acre bird sanctuary, so setting foot anywhere above the high-tide mark — except on a couple of designated trails — is forbidden. At least 92 species of birds, including fork-tailed frigatebirds and blue-footed boobies, nest on these islands. Oceanographer Jacques Cousteau led the effort to legally protect the archipelago in 2005. The isles’ best-known feature is the Playa del Amor (“Beach of Love”), more commonly known as Hidden Beach. It’s periodically closed for coral restoration, as it was for 16 weeks last summer, but when visitors are welcomed, it is incomparable. The beach can only be accessed by swimmers, who enter at low tide through a short tunnel. Like a crater lake with an ocean outlet, it cannot be seen from the water. It is indeed a magical place, and strict visitation guidelines limit the number of daily visitors to protect the ecosystem. Vallarta Adventures (vallarta-adventures.com) provides equipment and instruction for snorkeling, diving, kayaking and even stand-up paddling, along with food and beverage. It also offers about 20 other tours in the Puerto Vallarta region, ranging from active (sailing,

off-roading, jungle zip-lining) to tours of colonial towns, visits to tequila factories and a folkloric music-anddance production, “Rhythms of the Night,” in the isolated beach hamlet of Las Caletas.

Old romance still burns Broad Banderas Bay is 26 miles across, its gentle surf washing Pacific beaches from Punta de Mita to Yelapa. Every sort of vessel, from cruise liners and navy ships to re-created pirate galleons, plies its waters. Puerto Vallarta is the urban hub. In the Old Town area, colorful fishing boats cast off each morning within sight of the historic Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, and visitors parade beside local families down the broad Malecón promenade. The Rio Cuale, which flows

from the Sierra Madre del Sur into the Pacific, divides Vallarta Centro (downtown) from the Zona Romantica, a favored address for many of the 40,000 Americans and Europeans who make their homes in

and around this city. In fact, a lot of the romance in the latter neighborhood is of the LGBTQ variety, widely accepted here. Budget cafes are so tightly stacked with small hotels along the sands of Playa los

Muertos (“Beach of the Dead”) that the main street here, Olas Altas, is often known as “Restaurant Row.” Wooded Isla Cuale, which may be approached by swaying suspension bridges across its name-

vallarta

Dec 22 - 28, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

ns its authenticity while catering to tourists

of Emperor Maximilian, in the mid-1860s. On weekends, English-language services are offered along with Spanish in Our Lady of Guadalupe, and municipal bands perform concerts in the square.

sake river, is home to the colorful Mercado Municipal, a market whose merchants sell both food and crafts. The fabled ’60s romance between actors Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton blossomed here: Near the

Bridge of the Iguana (Burton had starred in director John Huston’s 1963 movie, “The Night of the Iguana,” filmed in nearby Mismaloya) stands a stylized statue of the pair embracing. Indeed, Taylor and Burton appear to be more idolized in Vallarta half a century after their famous romance than they ever were in Hollywood. El Malecón (literally “the breakwater”) extends north along the Pacific shore for nearly a mile. Lined with statues and modern sculptures — including the evocative “Boy on a Seahorse” (“El Caballito”) by Rafael Zamarripa — the pedestrian promenade was revitalized in 2011. At its widest point, the Plaza de Armas extends two blocks east to the city’s landmark church. Although it was built in the early 1900s, the crown atop its steeple is said to have been designed after a tiara worn by Carlota, royal consort

Fine dining in abundance Mindful of tourist traffic, many galleries, bars and restaurants are concentrated along the east side of the Malecón. Among them are branches of the highly commercialized Señor Frog’s, whose Kermitlike trademark is seen at souvenir shops throughout the city. I avoid establishments that serve umbrella drinks, heading instead for places like the rustic La Bodeguita del Medio (labodeguitadelmedio.com. mx), a Cuban cafe whose original Havana tables were frequented by Ernest Hemingway, or La Dolce Vita (dolcevita.com.mx), an authentic Italian restaurant. Of my three favorite Puerto Vallarta restaurants, only one is within easy walking distance of the Malecón. This is the Café des Artistes (cafedesartistes.com),

whose ambience is like that of an elegant country cottage in Provence. It’s been owned and operated for more than 20 years by chef Thierry Blouet, a Puerto Ricoborn Frenchman who promotes regional cuisine through events like the Festival Gourmet International Vallarta each November. The farm-to-table movement hasn’t yet captured the Puerto Vallarta culinary movement, but Blouet tries as much as possible to locally source vegetables and meats. Seafood, of course, is not a problem here. Specialties of the house include a creamy shrimp and pumpkin soup and prawns in a plum-and-habañero mole sauce with a carrot-and-asparagus tamale. Two other outstanding Puerto Vallarta restaurants are La Leche (lalecherestaurant.com), close to the elegant Fiesta Americana hotel (fiestaamericana.com) in the Zona Hotelera Norte (midway between downtown and the international airport), and the Vista Grill (vistagrill.com), a gourmet hillside eatery with a classic menu and a broad sunset view across the historic church and Banderas Bay. For a little local flavor, however, it’s worth checking out Vallarta Food Tours (vallartafoodtours. com). Guides such as Ricardo (Lobo) Lopez, a California transplant, lead three-hour walking tours through various neighborhoods well off the tourist track — stopping at family-owned cafes for fresh tacos and tortillas, ceviche tostadas, refreshing beverages like horchata (made from rice and cinnamon), and perhaps even some authentic Jalisco tequila.

A slow road to tourism Puerto Vallarta was founded in 1851 as a coastal supply depot for salt and silver mines. It didn’t formally incorporate until 1918. Tourism grew slowly beginning in the 1930s, picking up substantially after a Guadalajara-to-Puerto Vallarta air route was established in 1954. The Burton-Taylor affair attracted Hollywood’s attention: Since that time, and especially since the mid-1980s, tourism has soared. Most new hotel construction has been north of the city, especially around the beautiful marina and planned community of Nuevo Vallarta. A few more intimate modern hotels are on the south side of Banderas Bay, beneath such hillside enclaves as Conchas Chinas, where many expatriates live. Still more head to charming Punta de Mita and Sayulita, 25 miles north. Once enveloped by thick jungle, Sayulita was discovered by surfers in the late 1960s. Now a town of about 5,000, its eclectic nature has made it a magnet for adventuresome younger people and gallery lovers. Here, palm-fringed cobblestone lanes, flanked by shops selling handmade beachwear and Huichol folk crafts, turn to golden sand as they approach the beach, where fresh ceviche is served in shaded huts. Besides surfing and stand-up paddling (Sayulita was home to the 2015 world SUP championships), visitors can snorkel, fish and ride horses. The town offers plenty of budget lodging, an English-speaking doctor and several Internet cafes. Original: The Register-Guard

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SPCA of Puerto Vallarta By Janice Gonzalez

ishing everyone a very Merry Christmas. Doing any last minute shopping? Stop by our table at the farmers market on Saturday and pick up our 2017 SPCA calendar. Everyone loves them and each month features loving companion animals of friends in town. Just $250 pesos! While you are there, you can donate your old tired sheets or towels. These are always useful at the sanctuary and we have a basket for collection at the market stand. Another way to spread the love is to sponsor one of our special rescues. You can even donate as a gift to a loved one and we will send a certificate for you to put in their stocking. Email us at spcapv@gmail.com or go directly to our donation link at www. spcapv.com/donate. Be sure to write in the comments which dog you would like to sponsor and in whose name. We will send you a gift certificate with the names and the dog’s story. For our Canadian friends, you can donate at www.pvcarescue.com. Come and spend a rewarding afternoon cuddling the animals at Puerto Vallarta’s SPCA Sanctuary. Our dogs and cats are awaiting “forever homes” and your help is needed to jump start their socialization. The goal is to get these animals adjusted

charity SPCA de PV ADORABLE DOG IN

and ready to interact in the real world. The majority of the SPCA animals either come from extremely abusive situations or they have been abandoned. Your love and attention can make up for that sad history. During your visit, you can interact with the animals and even take a dog (or two or three) for a walk. Reservations to visit the sanctuary need to be made in advance. To make a reservation, contact us at spcapv@gmail.com. We appreciate any donations you can bring for our rescues and also please feel free to bring treats for sanctuary staff as they truly appreciate it. To see our animals available for adoption, visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/spcapv. Go to Photos where you will also find individual Albums for all the animals available as well as a bit of their history. Please be aware that our adoption fee within Mexico is $1,500 pesos. To make donations via PayPal, select the “Donate” option on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/spcapv or on our website at http://spcapv.com/donate/. You can drop off any donations for the SPCA at Hacienda San Angel located at Calle Miramar 336, above Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in El Centro. Get involved…rescue, adopt, foster, volunteer, donate or educate. Contact us at spcapv@gmail.com. You can learn more about the SPCA Puerto Vallarta by checking us out at www.spcapv.com/home or on Facebook.

Dec 22 - 28, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

THE SPOTLIGHT… TUCKER by Janice Gonzalez

his is one lovable little Terrier mix. Tucker is just a year old and weighs 15 pounds. He has a sweet mellow personality. Tucker is playful as you would expect but prefers to snuggle in your lap. He

is good with other dogs and is even okay around felines. Tucker has been neutered, dewormed and up to date on all his vaccines. Now he just needs that special human to take him home and love him. Is it you? Contact us a spcapv@gmail.com for an application.

charity

Talk to their hearts By John Warren

elson Mandela said “If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his own language, that goes to his heart.” If the tourist or the ex-pat in Puerto Vallarta is able to speak a few words of Spanish to the taxi-driver or the store clerk it is almost always met with a beaming smile and enthusiastic encouragement to speak more Spanish. It feels good. It goes to their heart! If the taxi-driver or store clerk can speak English it goes to our hearts. But the impact on their lives can, over a lifetime, be financially signi-

he biggest news of 2016 is the completion of Casa Connor! In 2011 Casa Connor was a dream for Peter & Teena Oudman and it has been their life and breath for the past five years. The couple has dedicated themselves to building a facility for children with special needs with the help of a dedicated board of directors and many compassionate donors. Their vision was focused on building a facility that could have the space, required equipment and respite capacity for disabled children; one that would make the children feel special. Their passion has been driven by their grandson Connor who passed away in 2011 from Hunters Syndrome at the age of 15. Grateful for the compassion and care that Connor received throughout his short life span, Peter and Teena wanted to give back by helping the special needs community of Pasitos de Luz in the Bay of Banderas. Their vision was to build a castle for Pasitos children so the children could feel magic in their lives every day. These dreams have become a reality and were enabled through the generosity of Peter and Teena Oudman and an amazing number of people who donated time, effort

ficant. It can mean larger tips for the taxi-driver or more sales for the store clerk. The same is true for professionals such as lawyers, doctors and dentists. If they are fluent in English their potential for income increases exponentially. The International Friendship Club (IFC) starts 30 or 40 Mexicans on the road to speaking and understanding English each year in January by providing free English lessons to children and adults who want to expand their horizons and their opportunities. Lessons will be held at the IFC Clubhouse, which is located at the northeast corner of the bridge where Insurgentes crosses the

River Cuale, on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:15 to 5:30, starting on 17th January and continuing until 30th March. Assessment of the students and registration will be on Tuesday 10th January at 4:15pm. Any Mexican is welcome to register providing they are over 8 years old. So if you know of any friend or member of the staff where you live or, perhaps, a waiter you know who would like to learn basic English please have them come to the IFC Clubhouse on Tuesday 10th at 4:15. If you would like to commit your time for ten weeks on Tuesdays and Thursday afternoons to be a teacher please email Etta Jacobs, the coordinator of the program, at ettaajacobs@gmail.com and discuss it with her. -0The IFC starts its classic film

Dec 22 - 28, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

series on Monday 26th. Movies will be shown weekly at the clubhouse (see below) and the contribution requested to the club’s coffers is only 40pesos and that includes free popcorn! Doors open at 6:30 and so does the cash bar. The movies start at 7:00pm. Everyone is welcome. On Monday 26th the movie is The Night of the Iguana, the same one that launched the sleepy fishing village of Puerto Vallarta into the bustling tourist mecca that it is today. In the 1930’s, Puerto Vallarta was becoming a tourist destination but very much off the beaten path. However, in 1964 the village became famous with the release of John Huston’s movie version of Tennessee Williams’ The Night of the Iguana. The movie showcased the beauty of Mismaloya Beach while the paparazzi publicized the adulterous affair between Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. This publicity helped to attract foreign investors in the 1970s and the rest is history. On 2nd January Captains Courageous hits the silver screen. First released 80 years ago in 1937 and based on the book by Rudyard Kipling it tells the story of how spoiled Harvey Cheyne (Freddie Bartholomew) is suspended from

Pasito de Luz and Casa Connor

Watch for more information on our Casa Connor Open House Thursday February 9th at 10:00 am! Please hold the date to visit us! and funds. Sincerest thanks, gratitude and our hearts go out to Eagle Wings, Bachas Restaurant, Secrets Vallarta Bay Puerto Vallarta, Now Amber Puerto Vallarta, Brian Collins family, Weenings family, Emmanuel Christian Reformed Church in Calgary and to the many, many more anonymous and other donors.

A million thank yous – mil gracias. Casa Connor is now ready to start offering services!! From January 9,2017 the children of Pasitos de Luz will be transported by bus and van from Monday to Friday to their new wonderful space. In addition, the new facility will increase our capacity for more children to receive

daily attention and services. The current facilities located at Exiquio Corona 545 Col Bobadilla, will serve as a collection point for children. In addition, the current site will remain open to provide physical therapy services to children who only attend for one-hour therapy sessions. Casa Connor is ready, but we still need your help, please. The building needs to be equipped with items such as tables, chairs, beds, chalkboards, televisions, mattresses, etc. If you are able to help and are interested in learning more about what kind of furniture is needed at Casa Connor, please send an email to donate@pasitosdeluz.org. Watch for more information on our Casa Connor Open House Thursday February 9th at 10:00 am! Please hold the date to visit us! Padrino Program - We are looking for 500 sponsors who can help with $30 US per month or $300 US per year. In this way we will ensure we can provide care, therapy, education and treatments for the children at Casa Connor. Please visit http:// www.pasitosdeluz.org/campaing and discover how you can change

boarding school, his businessman father (Melvyn Douglas) takes him to Europe on a business trip. When the rebellious lad falls overboard from the steamship, he is saved from death by humble fisherman Manuel Fidello (Spencer Tracy) and forced by the captain of the fishing schooner (Lionel Barrymore) to become a low-ranking member of the ship’s crew alongside the captain’s own son (Mickey Rooney). On 9th January a classic movie of the post war period The Third Man will be shown. One review of the movie is…. “Several factors contribute to make The Third Man as powerful and as stunningly original now as it was when it premiered to great acclaim in 1949. Graham Green’s taut story and wonderfully snappy dialogue provide a strong foundation for some outstanding performances. Then there are the dank and glorious ruins of Vienna, exquisitely captured by Robert Krasker’s Oscar-winning camerawork. And there’s that music, a lone zither plucking jauntily away throughout the movie, even at the scene of a murder.” If you like the classics this is a great movie to watch. The IFC Home Tours will start again on Tuesday 3rd January.

a child’s life. Best Wishes for Happiest Holidays! We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for all of your help and for believing in Pasitos de Luz. Everyday we are thankful for everything we receive from you and for the joy we receive from Pasitos de Luz children! Our donors make everything possible! We receive no ongoing government funding and rely on private donations. In addition to the donors who helped make Casa Connor a reality, we also want to express our deepest gratitude to the Canadian Children's Shelter of Hope and the United States Children's Shelter of Hope who facilitate donations and tax receipts in excess of $100,000 pesos annually. Secrets, Now Amber, Mayan Rental, Dahl Foundation, Richard Reed Foundation, Eagle Wings Foundation, Oxxo and Sorianna have also provided financial donations of $100,000 pesos or more. Donations in excess of $50,000 pesos are deeply appreciated from Hard Rock Hotel, Elengorn Realtors, and New Life Line. And to all our donors - thank you from the bottom of our hearts- every peso helps! Pasitosdeluz.org

Dec 22 - 28, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

A FUN-FILLED

FASHION

SHOW

Tradition rules the day in La Cruz

WEDNESDAY JANUARY 11 at 1:00PM

Oso’s Fish Market Restaurant, La Cruz Marina

475 MXN / $23.75 USD Tickets include: one margarita or iced tea, luncheon and the fashion show Proceeds go to benefit Amigos de La Cruz de Huancaxtle, A.C.

To buy tickets and for more information visit:

www.amigosdelacruz.org

DRAWS/PRIZES

RI CE

B ION

’S A I R

FAS

BU E C A L P

AMIGOS

DE LA CRUZ

www.amigosdelacruz.org

radition has always been one of the essential characteristics of la Cruz de Huanacaxtle. A fishing village for generations, this town has been modernized thanks to the construction of the Riviera Nayarit Marina —the largest and most modern along the Pacific. When visiting La Cruz, as the locals call it, you will have the opportunity to witness postcardworthy scenes such as the arrival of fishermen on the pier in their boats loaded with a variety of fish. The marina is equipped with all the services needed for a comfortable stay: bathrooms and showers, security, electricity and fueling stations. This modern development also has a yacht club, business center, sky bar, restaurant, seafood market, pier and one of the best-equipped shipyards in the country. All of these maritime and fishing charms wouldn’t be complete without the golden beach of La Cruz, which covers five kilometers (three miles) and is divided into five sections: El Tizate, Cruz de Huanacaxtle, La Manzanilla, Piedra Blanca and Arena Blanca. For those who visit La Cruz, they know the true allure is the vibrant music scene with many

well-known musicians, both local and international, calling La Cruz home. Jam nights at the local bars are a musical experience others pay big ticket prices for. Enjoy activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving and surfing (in winter the waves reach heights adequate for this sport), and of course fishing, one of the main activities of La Cruz thanks to the abundance of species such as tuna, marlin and mahi-mahi. Perhaps the biggest weekly draw though is the Sunday Farmers Market that takes place from November through April along the Marina Boardwalk. Over 200 vendors display mostly locally produced and handmade items ranging from baked goods, prepared foods, organic produce, clothing, jewelry, art, beauty and health products and more. There is also live music, events and more each week. Imagine fishing tournaments held under the glowing light of a full moon, colorful festivals with the ocean as the guest of honor. Tie up your yacht in this town where tradition still abounds. All of this and more awaits you in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, where the “tree that hears” anticipates the sound of your voice.

riviera nayarit

Bright and Shiny, Nuevo Vallarta Dazzles

uevo Vallarta is one of the most visited and exclusive beach destinations of Mexico, bringing together luxury and the abundance of nature and an enchanting escape with excellent hospitality, comfort and entertainment. This entryway into the Riviera Nayarit also has the second highest number of hotels in the country, with a first class infrastructure easily seen in the impeccable and vast golf courses, luxurious condominiums, exclusive restaurants and two of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most important marinas. Nuevo Vallarta is a lively destination with its five kilometer (three-mile) shoreline of golden beaches, where visitors can delight in the turquoise-blue ocean and fine sands as well as the various activities offered in this unbeatable climate. The hotels and resorts of Nuevo Vallarta are listed among the most exclusive and luxurious of beach destinations on an international scale. Some of these establishments have received the Five Diamond distinction, awarded by the American Automobile Association (AAA) to hotels that offer the finest and most luxurious of lodging, ambiance and hospitality. Hanging gardens, endless pools that visually meld into the ocean and luxurious suites are just some of the tempting delights tucked away in these buildings with elegant architecture and surrounded by the natural wonders of the tropics and the beauty of the Pacific coast. Nuevo Vallarta is also home

to the most exclusive restaurants of the Riviera Nayarit with menus offering everything from the intense tastes of Mexican and regional cuisine to a la carte gourmet delicacies that guarantee a unique culinary experience and are sure to please even the most demanding of palates. The hotels and resorts of Nuevo Vallarta, in addition to luxury and comfort, also offer a variety of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy their stay to the fullest. Options include beach sports, golf, scuba diving, surfing, yoga classes, gym equipment and sports fields and courts as well as sophisticated spas where you can enjoy revitalizing treatments for mind, body and spirit such as hydrotherapy, sauna treatments, and hydro-reflexology, among others. Adventurous visitors can admire an important variety of flora and fauna of the region such as white herons, iguanas and a variety of fish species. When touring the piers, you can observe beautiful ships displaying flags from remote countries and foreign sailors milling about. These visitors have discovered this paradise, and deemed it one of the most glorious of destinations on their globetrotting itinerary. And as the sun sinks below the horizon and paints the skies with luminous tones of orange, pink and purple, the festive nightlife calls to those visitors eager to continue their adventures in one of the exclusive bars and restaurants located in area hotels or fashionable independent establishments.

Dec 22 - 28, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

T S E W E N E H D T N A R A B S T SPOR U R ANT R ESTA RUZ C A L IN

La Cruz Welcomes New Restaurant and Sports Bar

JOIN U CHR IS S FOR TMA S DINN ER RE G U LA

R ME

By Richard Kiss

W WHAT’S HAPPENING AT TESCALAMA Happy Hour: Wednesday and Friday from 5:00-7:00 2x1 National Drinks, Half Price Pizzas on Wednesday Live Music: Zoe Wood every Thursday 7-9pm SPORTS! SPORTS! MORE SPORTS! World Junior Hockey Championship Dec. 26 - Jan. 5. Opening Day: Canada vs Russia! NCAA Football - See the bowl games! Final Weeks of the Regular NFL Season College Football Playoffs: Dec. 31: 2:00PM; Washington vs. Alabama; 6:00PM Ohio St. vs. Clemson.

FOR ALL YOUR SPORTS AND EVENTS ENTERTAINMENT High def big screen TV’s and the best audio system around! Don’t miss anything! Open 7 days a week!

5 T V’S

329 295-6083 FB/Tescalama La Cruz tescalamalacruz.com

hat do an Australian surfer, a retired banker and the scion of a Mexican restaurant family have in common? They are the proprietors of a new restaurant and bar; Tescalama! Named for the 300-year-old tree adjacent to the entrance, Richard, Fernando and Keith have brought a new and unique concept to the Riviera Nayarit. But what is it? The five large high definition TV’s with the most sophisticated audiovisual system in the Riviera Nayarit scream ‘sports bar’. Open air on three sides with views of Banderas Bay you can watch all your favorite sports while enjoying the beautiful climate that brings us all here in the first place. No need to feel guilty watching the important game in a smoky, confined bar! And for those not interested in the sports, enjoy the view and ambience with your favorite beverage and the food. Ah, the food! A quick perusal of the menu and you are no longer in a sports bar but in a fine dining restaurant with great options at a reasonable price. Try the fish stuffed with shrimp,

or the Chile Relleno, the Spaghetti Tescalama (seafood with a red sauce) Many are enjoying our Cesar Salads with our Parmesan cheese round.; not your typical sports bar grub at all! So what is Tescalama? A sports bar with great food or a great restaurant with all the sports? All of the above and more. Live music with Zoe Wood (from La Cruz), occasional dancing, late night cocktails; it is all of the above. With the food prepared by a great kitchen staff led by head chef Christian, who represents the best of the new generation of Mexican chefs and cheerfully served to you by our friendly wait staff led by Tony and Jesus (Chuy to his friends, and everyone wants to be his friend) Tescalama is the go-to-spot for locals, tourists and ex-pats! Come on by! Check out our Facebook page and give us a LIKE! facebook. com/tescalama.lacruz View our Website for the full menu and photos at tescalamalacruz.com. From myself, Keith, Fernando and the Tescalama staff we wish everyone the happiest of holidays. We look forward to seeing you soon. Richard Kiss.

Olas Altas Farmers’ Market

This week at the Farmers’ Market you will find great things! Old Town, Puerto Vallarta is a vibrant neighbourhood that draws visitors from around the world. Many expats and ‘snowbirds’ call this area home because it is overflowing with a richness of events, restaurants, public spaces and the famous Los Muertos beach.

For those looking for the perfect mementos, there are world-class artisans who create original jewelry out of silver, gold and pewter embellished with gemstones, pearls, and beads. There are also fused glass, paper mache, wooden items and ceramics, all handmade and created locally.

Located at the corner of Olas Altas and Lazaro Cardenas, the Olas Altas Market is simple to find. If you are driving, there is an underground parkade directly beneath the park. You can catch just about any bus heading south and walk, at most, a couple blocks, or grab a taxi, they are cheap and plentiful. You can even ride along the newly marked bike path on the malecon!

For the heath conscious, there are potions, lotions and even a chiropractor to give you an adjustment. From healthy foods to body lotions, sunscreens and homeopathic remedies, there is something for everyone in this market.

Plan to spend the day exploring the market, maybe grab lunch and enjoy the live entertainment, and then check out the neighbourhood after the market. Pack your beach bag and head to Playa Los Muertos for some beachside fun!

Heriberto Saucedo Pérez Artista Diseñador Cel. 3222.190 56 32 Fb: Heriko Joyeria herikojoyeria@hotmail.com

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s Alta ket Olas ers’ Mar A ANZ Farm ARR V

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IGNACIO L. VALLARTA

For those that reside in Puerto Vallarta, even for a short while, there are many delicious foods to purchase and take home – you’ll never have to cook again! Items such as jams and spreads, organic, gluten

Many local charities use the market space to help promote their worthy causes. You can often find tickets to events or items for purchase that benefit the PV SPCA, or Pasitos de Luz or the Corazon de Niña Home, for example.

PINO SUAREZ

Every Saturday from November to April in the Lazaro Cardenas park, you can find about 80 vendors setting up at 9am to sell their wares through the day (until 2pm). Once held to strict standards, these vendors only sell items that they themselves have produced locally. This gives the Olas Altas Market a wonderful uniqueness and treasure trove of beautiful items.

free and artisan baked goods and flavourful authentic foods such as traditionally prepared tamales and empanadas. Grab enough for a snack or get plenty for a week’s worth of meals. There are also roasted nuts and candies, cakes and pies, fresh produce, seafood and more.

IO B ASIL

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Located in Park Lazaro Cardenas, Old Town in Puerto Vallarta. Find us on Facebook at Olas Altas Farmers Market.

riviera nayarit

Dec 22 - 28, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Three Top Restaurants found in Riviera Nayarit

he chosen restaurants include El Delfín in the Garza Canela Hotel in San Blas, Carolina in The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort in Bahía de Banderas and Emiliano Cocina y Vino in Tepic. The list of “120 Best Restaurants in Mexico” was recently published in the 2017 La Guía México Gastronómico and three of Nayarit’s restaurants were on it for the second year in a row; the list is considered by experts as the most complete of its kind in the country. “As a tourism destination that uses gastronomy as one of the foundations for our promotions it’s very important for us to have our restaurants recognized for their quality,” said Marc Murphy, Managing Director of the Riviera Nayarit Convention and Visitors Bureau. “We want to congratulate our culinary ambassador, Chef Betty Vázquez, and Chefs José Meza and Marco Valdivia, two young talents who are making their mark.” One of the selected establishments is the El Delfín restaurant in the Garza Canela hotel in San Blas, led by the Riviera Nayarit’s Culinary Ambassador, Chef Betty Vázquez. Located in The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort on the Riviera

Nayarit’s Glamour Peninsula, Carolina is the pride and joy of Chef José Meza. Last but not least, the prestigious list showcased Tepic’s Emiliano Cocina y Vino, with Chef Marco Valdivia heading the kitchen. The ranking of La Guía México Gastronómico pays tribute to all the culinary tendencies in domestic cuisine. Fifty members of the Editorial Board of Voters on Mexican Cuisine visited the restaurants anonymously.

What’s cooking in Riviera Nayarit this January?

Sea Turtles in Riviera Nayarit

atching a sea turtle lay its eggs or liberating its hatchlings are unforgettable experiences for all who have done it firsthand. It’s one of the most popular activities especially for families with kids in the Riviera Nayarit home to over 10 turtle camps. The destination has over 10 turtle camps along its five coastal municipalities from Bahía de Banderas to Tecuala, where they liberate over one million baby turtles during nesting season (June to February). The most common turtle on the coast of Nayarit is the Olive Ridley turtle, which nests three times a year. A young litter of Hawksville turtles has been sighted, and the situation of the Leatherback and Black turtles is much more delicate as they are already critically endangered. Below please find a list of points to follow in accordance with the Official Mexican Regulation NOM-162-SEMARNAT-2012, which protects the endangered sea turtle: The first and most important is humans must not intervene in the birth process (only properly certified experts may do so). Under no circumstances may the hatchlings, eggs or adult turtles be retained. Manipulating, touching, approaching or bothering the nesting turtles or liberated hatchlings is not allowed. Digging in the nests or touching the deposited eggs is not allowed. · Lights, flash or noise are not allowed when a sea turtle is sighted. People must remain 10 meters away from any nesting turtle. The camps in the Riviera Nayarit include those in Nuevo Vallarta, Carreyeros, Sayulita, San Pancho, Lo de Marcos, Punta Raza, El Naranjo, Boca de Chila, Platanitos, San Blas, Los Corchos, El Sesteo and La Puntilla.

he year begins with the Vallarta Cup Race Series and the Nuevo Vallarta Art Festival, the Patron Saint Festivities for Our Lady of Peace in La Cruz and Bucerías and the International Migratory Bird Festival in San Blas. The year is still not over and the Groups and Events desk at the Riviera Nayarit Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) is already working on what’s coming up for 2017 and lending their support to the first events of the year. “As a tourism destination we are known for hosting dozens of events throughout the year, and that’s exactly how we’re ending 2016 and kicking off 2017,” said Marc Murphy, Managing Director of the Riviera Nayarit CVB. Vallarta Cup Race Series (January 7, 14, 21 and 28) About 20 sailboats will participate in this series of races, which not only serve as competition but also inspire moments of camaraderie among the assistants thanks to the traditional Saturday theme parties held after every race at the Vallarta Yacht Club in Nuevo Vallarta. vallartayachtclub.org/ Art Festival (January 7, 14, 21 and 28) The festival starts in January and continues through the high season, presenting artwork to strengthen cultural tourism in

the Riviera Nayarit. Every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. different artists will gather at the Marina Nuevo Vallarta for an exhibition of paintings and sculpture. 2° Boom Beach Festival (January 14 and 15) It’s all about fun during this Stand Up Paddle (SUP) and surfing competition in Lo de Marcos, held to promote sports and environmental awareness. This is a great excuse to go camping for a weekend and try out your balance on a board. facebook.com/boombeachfestival/ Our Lady of Peace Patron Saint Festivities (January 16 - 24) In order to celebrate their patron saint, local citizens head out on a maritime pilgrimage on their gaily-festooned boats from La Cruz de Huanacaxtle to Bucerías. XIII San Blas International Migratory Bird Festival (January 29 - February 5) San Blas is undoubtedly one of the top migratory and endemic bird watching areas on the continent. Several artistic and cultural activities revolving around the birds will be held during the festival, as well as tours along the traditional observation routes. facebook.com/fiamsanblas

riviera nayarit

Dec 22 - 28, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Fun on the Riviera Nayarit

Cat Morgan www.rivieranayaritfun.com Cat@RivieraNayaritFun.com

ey Everybody, Happy Holidays! Here in Mexico the majority of folks are Catholic or Christian. However, from November 1st to January 15th there are 29 holidays observed by seven major religions. This is how our world is; an amazing place filled with different people and cultures. Saying Happy Holidays can simply mean that you wish everyone happiness no matter what their persuasion. Live, Love, and let live! Bucerias Art Walk / Thursdays 7-9pm Every Thursday is the Bucerias Art Walk on the Southside of the arroyo (river), over by Mark’s Bar and Grill, and all the way down to Encore Restaurant. (Both fabulous, by the way.) It’s an enjoyable evening visiting the Bucerias art galleries, sipping on wine and snacking on appies that the galleries offer while taking in the beautiful art, and perhaps a special purchase. It’s a great opportunity to get the last of your Christmas shopping completed. Jan Marie Boutique has a great selection from small to large items that make for the perfect gift. While you’re strolling about be sure to stop by Doug and Linda’s casa, #52 Lazaro Cardenas, for their art exhibit of Rigoberto Mora and Doug’s paintings. Rigo has been painting beautiful oils and watercolors of dancing ladies and tigers, with Doug is still creating his crazy fun “Fish” art. Doug and Linda’s casa is also where the Bucerias Singers rehearse every year. The Bucerias Singers will be strolling up and down the avenue singing

Christmas carols this week. I had the privilege of singing with them for a couple of years; what a wonderful experience! If you’re in San Pancho, and want to get a last minute gifts please stop at the Entreamigos Community Center, close to the entrance of town on the main drag. Always remember how you choose to spend your money is a powerful and effective way to create the world that we want to live in. When you shop at Entreamigos you contribute to the education, the environment and to the community. They have a lot of fun items…check them out! Happy Birthday Nancy Hache! A few days ago I was out in Bucerias in the early evening. I just happened to run into friends, Nancy and Brian Hache, their son Jeff and his wife Mel. They were going into the new Bucerias restaurant Las Lupita for her birthday dinner. They have really decorated up the street with banners and lights; it’s so nice I had to take a couple of photos. Happy Birthday mi amiga! May you have many more wonderful years celebrating life. Esquina 22 Bar and Lounge / Bucerias I need to write an apology begging forgiveness from Alain and Arturo, the owners of Esquina 22, and the entertainment for a misquote a couple of papers ago. I wrote that the live music is on Thurs, Fri and Sat, which, is incorrect! Esquina 22 has live music on Wednesday with Cesar Medina, Thursday with Checko and Alex, and Friday with Ricardo Cruces, all beginning at 7pm with weekly food and drink specials. Happy

Hour -2X1 National Drinks, Beer and House Wine from 3-7pm. OK! I feel better now! Sorry guys! While many folks will be cooking up their turkey dinners at home and entertaining with friends, others enjoy going out to celebrate. There are so many places to choose from.

The most important days are the days spent with the people we love, and who love us. Wherever you find yourself, have a joyous celebration with family and friends. Many blessings of love. For any questions please email me at Cat@RivieraNayaritFun.com AHO!

riviera nayarit

Dec 22 - 28, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Luna Lounge Bucerias Contin Class Entertainment to th By: Debbie White

he exciting new season of entertainment is in full swing at Luna Lounge in Bucerias. The crowds poured in on Monday for the last night of BBQ Ribs and music by Hangar. Tuesday produced a full audience for the all new, Crazy Bitches Show featuring Miss Diva Divine and the girls with their risqué parodies and tributes to some of our most treasured musical icons. Last Friday night’s Tribute Show was one of my all-time favorites. Luna Lounge welcomed back Renee Armand and Paul Aleman in their show, Rocky Mountain High: The John Denver Tribute. Renee was a John Denver band member for six years, during the height of John’s popularity and provided incredible harmonies for John’s songs. As I listened to Renee perform, I recognized the same magnificent background vocals that I’ve heard on John Denver albums. Renee and Paul delivered these favorite songs in a beautiful, creative and honest way, just as they were meant to be communicated. Paul’s gentle, yet precise acoustic guitar accompaniment,

along with his gorgeous vocals was spellbinding. They also threw in some extra fun with Renee’s popular, original song, “Boney Fingers,” along with “Avocado” performed to the tune of “Desperado.” Renee’s beautiful, original, soul searching song about Mexico captured our hearts. Rocky Mountain High was an amazing show, performed by two extremely talented, accomplished musicians with a passion for the music of John Denver. Coming up at Luna Lounge are two nights of Christmas fun with A Tribute to Jimmy Buffett starring the impressive Brian Neale. The Christmas night show is sold out, but there are still tickets for the dinner/show on Monday, December 26th at 6:30 pm. Even if you’re not an official “Parrot

Head,” you’ll love “Cheese Burger in Paradise” and all those tropic rock favorites! The Bryan Adams New Year’s Eve Tribute Show on Saturday, December 31st is the perfect way to bring in the New Year. You love hearing favorites like, “Cuts Like A Knife,” “Run to You” and “It’s Only Love,” performed to perfection by Doug Varty. The evening starts off with Luna Lounge’s special holiday dinner, followed by a cutting edge

La Cruz de Huanacaxtle

by Alef Gallardo

nues to Brings World he North Shore

musical performance and a party all in one. This show is almost sold out! Keep in mind that most Luna Lounge Tribute Shows sell out, so don’t delay in booking your favorites as soon as possible. Also,

throughout December and January, Monday nights will feature BBQ Ribs and music by the band, Hanger. Starting in the month of January, The Crazy Bitches, will be featured 2 nights a week. Each Tuesday and Wednesday night at 7 pm, there will be a dinner/show presentation of this fun drag show. The girls have put together an entertaining show that you’re going to love. And part of the laughter and fun is seeing how the audience members react to the show! So don’t let the entertainment season pass you by. Book early so you don’t miss any of the good times at Luna Lounge! For more information about the shows go to: lunaloungebucerias.com. For questions or tickets email hugh@lunaloungebucerias.com. Luna Lounge is located at Av. Mexico #27, Bucerias, Nayarit. Tel. # 329-298-3242. CORRECTION: Kim Kuzma isn’t scheduled at Luna Lounge Bucerias this season.

Little town of La Cruz offers Organic Love

n this little organic kitchen & shop located in the quiet fishing village of La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, here in this magical spot a promise is made to present a healthy, tasty and nutritional alternative to neighbors, friends, guests and to whomever ventures into this beautiful village. Chef Alef hopes to show that it’s possible to eat tasty and exciting flavors without disregarding a desire to know that you are eating natural and with respect towards our planet. They offer breakfasts with eggs that are locally produced on an organic farm and vegetables that are farmed in the area and grown naturally without chemicals, as well as bowls of organic yogurt and fresh fruit served with homemade granola and gluten-free seeds. Organic Love offers a large variety of fresh drinks, hot or cold, including: smoothies, juices and their own homemade kombucha or a variety of coffee drinks; more or

less anything you might desire to start your day, to have the energy to finish your day, something sweet to end the day or maybe something to help cure that hangover so you can enjoy another day at the beach. For your lunch they offer a whole wheat bread made in their kitchen. They mix their favorite bread flour with whole wheat flour and add flax seed, sunflower seeds, coconut oil, Himalayan salt and a whole bunch of Mexican compassion, then slice it in half and fill it with avocado, calabaza fried in organic coconut oil, pickled cabbage and a selection of seasonal vegetables and organic salads. Another delicious dish on offer is a fusion of an Italian pesto made in house and spirals of lightly fried zucchini - it’s is a really big hit because it’s truly a vegan alternative to eating a pasta. Yum! Aren’t you hungry now? Organic Love can be found at #14 Delphin in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle

ELAINE’S BUCERIAS GREAT FOOD, GREAT ENTERTAINMENT & GREAT FUN Francisco I. Madero #134 Sur in Bucerias - CA/US: 780-628-5363 MEX: 329-298-1149 www.elainesbucerias.com

ELAINES FINE DINING WE ARE OPEN!! -

Our Award winning Chef has put together a Menu guaranteed to provide an incredibily unique Dining Experience. Signature Dishes, Fine Wines and Liquors, Incredible Service and even a Cigar Bar. Live Entertainment is provided nightly by Mr. Clinton Gallagher, performing St Louis Style R & B. Dining, Dancing and Romancing Poolside under the Stars. A great way to spend an evening.

Happy New Year Party at Elaines Bucerias Reservations Recommended, 322 135 6791 www.elainesbucerias.com TICKETS AVAILABLE AT VILLAS DEL SOL, FCO. I MADERO 134, BUCERIAS NAYARIT 322 135 6791

www.elainesbucerias.com

Legends Bucerias will feature an amazing dinner with Entertainment by Clinton Gallagher and The Gecko Band to rock in the New Year! Only $1500 Pesos Limited seating. Reservations required. www.elainesbucerias.com

events

Farmer’s Markets

Events Calendar Have an event you want to promote? Email the details: Where, When, Who and What by Monday 5pm to Editor(at) VallartaTribune.com to be included in that week’s paper. December 24 Que?Pasa Noche Buena 2016 The Que?Pasa Toy Drive culminates with our very special Christmas Eve party starting at 6pm. Live music, special holiday menu. Toy give away. Santa! December 24 Christmas Eve Concert Under the Stars Casa Karma 8pm $2500 pesos. RSVP info@casakarma.net December 24 8th Annual Community Candlelight Christmas Services 4pm Paradise Church in Act II Main Stage Theater December 25 8th Annual Community Candlelight Christmas Services 10:30am Paradise Church in Act II Main Stage Theater December 26 Chanukah Party at The River Café at 6:30 pm. The evening will consist of the candle lighting, a delicious dinner, singing, and raffles. The adult price is $40 USD and $28 USD for children under the age of 12. Facebook.com/Puerto-Vallarta-Jewish-Community December 27-28 Doll Making Workshop This two day workshop taught by doll designer Rebecca Roth and hosted at the fabulous Hacienda Mosaico will teach you how to create your very own Mermaid (Merman) cloth doll. originalfriendsdolls@gmail.com December 28 Charity Bingo at Nacho Daddy Cards on sale at 3pm – Bingo starts at 4pm Live music by Stolie from 3-4pm Fundraising for Pasitos de Luz and Colina Spay and Neuter Clinic December 28-30 11th Sinergiarte Festival Colectivo San Pancho organizes this grand artistic and cultural festival January 3 IFC Home Tours - Visit 4 stunning Vallarta homes. Leave Sea Monkey Restaurant on the Malecon at 10:30am - 3 Hours. $600 pesos www.toursforvallarta.com January 4 Purr Project Bingo

Dec 22 - 28, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Margarita Grill – Basilio Badillo 5pm Fundraiser for the kitties of Vallarta. 3 bingo cards $100mx January 4 IFC Home Tours - Visit 4 stunning Vallarta homes. Leave Sea Monkey Restaurant on the Malecon at 10:30am - 3 Hours. $600 pesos www.toursforvallarta.com January 8 Auditions for the MEDICAL CABARET @ Octopus’s Garden 6pm Register now at Octopus’s Garden, Coral #66 in La Cruz or contact Patricia Spencer spencerp@live.ca To benefit Amigos de La Cruz de Huancaxtle, A.C. Medical Program. More information at www.amigosdelacruz.org January 10 IFC Home Tours - Visit 4 stunning Vallarta homes. Leave Sea Monkey Restaurant on the Malecon at 10:30am - 3 Hours. $600 pesos www.toursforvallarta.com January 11 Charity Bingo at Nacho Daddy Cards on sale at 3pm – Bingo starts at 4pm Live music by Stolie from 3-4pm Fundraising for Pasitos de Luz and Colina Spay and Neuter Clinic January 11 Fashion Show - Hosted by Gloria’s Place (Bucerias) To benefit Amigos de La Cruz de Huancaxtle, A.C. at Oso’s Fish Restaurant, Calle de Mar #4 (La Cruz Marina) Lunch and a Cocktail Word is the Firemen of La Cruz will model along with noted locals, contact Patricia Spencer, spencerp@live.ca More information at www. amigosdelacruz.org

ost Farmers Markets run from November through April, though a couple are all year round. Typically they start about 9am and end between 1 and 2pm. Each is a little different and all of them are fabulous!

PUERTO VALLARTA Saturday 9:00 -2:00pm Olas Altas Market Runs until April 29th in Park Lazaro Cardenas Saturday 9 – 1pm and Wednesday 9-1pm Three Hens and a Rooster Market Year round at Venustiano Carranza 466 in Emiliano Zapata Friday 9 – 1pm Marsol Friday Market by the Pier Year round at Marsol Hotel Lobby in Old Town. Thursday 6 – 10pm Marina Vallarta Market Every Thursday evening until the end of April along the boardwalk in Marina Vallarta.

NUEVO VALLARTA Tuesday 9-2pm Riviera Nayarit Farmers’ Market Parking lot at the Business Center; Saturday 9-2pm Tianguis Artesanal Nuevo Vallarta in the Marina Nuevo Vallarta

BUCERIAS Monday 9-1pm Monday Market – along Lazaro Cardenas Wednesday 9 - 1 pm Forever Spring along Lazaro Cardenas

LA CRUZ Sunday 10-2pm La Cruz Sunday Market - over 200 vendors. The Bay’s largest market along the Marina Riviera Nayarit

SAYULITA & SAN PANCHO

January 11 IFC Home Tours - Visit 4 stunning Vallarta homes. Leave Sea Monkey Restaurant on the Malecon at 10:30am - 3 Hours. $600 pesos www.toursforvallarta.com

Friday 10-2pm Mercado del Pueblo on Revolucion Street in Sayulita. Great market with many venders available only here. Much is organic and local. Tuesdays 10-2pm Mercado del Sol in San Pancho at the Plaza del Sol

January 14 Deja New/Alexander A Salon Fashion Show - all proceeds to Pasitos de Luz at River Cafe - doors open 12:30 SOLD OUT – Waitlist email Barb Bremner at condo211@yahoo.ca

LO DE MARCOS, GUAYABITOS, CHACALA AND LA PEÑITA

January 17 IFC Home Tours - Visit 4 stunning Vallarta homes. Leave Sea Monkey Restaurant on the Malecon at 10:30am - 3 Hours. $600 pesos www.toursforvallarta.com January 17 Annual classical concert at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, Puerto Vallarta. 8pm Everyone welcome.

Saturday 9-2pm The Tianguis Lo de Marcos is held on Luis Echeverría street Saturday 9-1pm The Chacala Cultural Market in the main Plaza. (Opening Nov.19) Monday 8-1pm Guayabitos Market on the main plaza in town Thursday 8-1pm La Peñita Market on its main plaza.

local

Dec 22 - 28, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Bette Midler The Divine Miss M

Part 2

By Fred Jacobs

ast week, we followed Bette from childhood in Hawaii, to her trek to New York where she found success on Broadway, becoming an underground cult icon preforming at a gay bath house, receiving a Grammy for her first album, and an Emmy for her first TV special. This week, we’ll look at her continued singing success and Hollywood knocking on her door. In 1979, Bette made her big screen debut in “The Rose”. Her character was loosely based on rock legend Janis Joplin and the associated drug addicted rise to Rock stardom. The film was a box office hit and earned Bette her first Oscar nomination, while the soundtrack topped the music charts and earned Bette another Grammy for the title song. By 1985, Bette’s singing reputation landed her an invitation to be part of the “We Are The World” recording for African Relief. She joined the likes of Michael Jackson, Lionel Richie and Quincy Jones to help raise over $20 million US (in today’s money terms) in just four months of sales of the hit single. Throughout the 1980’s Bette found herself in several movies, including “Down and Out in Beverly Hills” (1985), which began her successful comedic acting career. She followed that role with several more comedies such as “Ruthless People” (1986), “Outrageous Fortune” (1987), and “Big Business” (1988). 1988 also gave us the more serious side of Bette on the big screen in “Beaches”. Again the soundtrack accompanying the hit film was an instant chart hit as well. The title song earned Grammys for Song of the Year and Record of the Year. By 1990, Bette had released her seventh studio album, which brought us the hit song “From a Distance” and earned double Platinum status. 1991 saw Bette land the lead role in

the Woody Allen comedy “Scenes from a Mall”. Surprisingly Bette actually turned down the lead role in “Sister Act” (1992) which eventually went to Whoopi Goldberg. Bette team up with James Caan in “For The Boys” in 1991. The film was a comedy/drama set in the World War II era. The main characters were loosely based on Bob Hope and Marth Raye, who were a mainstay in the USO efforts to entertain the troops during the war. Again the soundtrack and Bette climbed the music charts.

In 1996 Bette was on the big screen in “The First Wives Club” alongside Diane Keaton and Goldie Hawn. The hilarious look at divorce and revenge on their ex-husbands, was a box off hit and earned over $180 million US, worldwide. Throughout the first decade of the new millennium, Bette concentrated on her music again with more albums and several concert tours. By 2008, Bette had begun a two year run at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. Her voice was also a mainstay on radio everywhere.

Since her early days of success, Bette has always been “giving back” and worked with numerous smaller charity groups quietly, especially in her beloved New York City. Bette even founded the New York Restoration Project (NYRP) in 1995. It was a non-profit organization with the goal of revitalizing neglected neighborhood parks in economically disadvantaged areas of New York City. Despite her outrageous onstage and onscreen characters, Bette’s personal life could not be more

different. She has had a quiet and relatively “normal” home life. She is happily married to her husband Martin since 1984 and has one daughter, Sophie. Whether on the New York stage, recording studio, TV, or the big screen, Bette has entertained us for almost 50 years and she shows no sign of slowing down at the age of 71. Fred Jacobs is a full time resident of Puerto Vallarta and the author of three books.

Where can I find the Vallarta Tribune? Over the past month we have been making small changes to our distribution locations; hopefully making it easier for you to find a copy. The Tribune will be available for pick up at the tourist offices in the main plaza as well as in Park Lazaro Cardenas, in Puerto Vallarta. You can shop and pick up

a copy of the Tribune at the Friday Marsol Market, the Saturday Olas Altas Market and at the Amigo’s de La Cruz table at the La Cruz Sunday Market. In addition to all of our advertisers, look for the Vallarta Tribune in restaurants, resorts, galleries and salons around the Bay of Banderas and north into

Sayulita and San Pancho. We distribute 10,000 copies in high season from Mismaloya to San Pancho each week. Marina Vallarta: Benittos, The Coffee Cup, Re/Max, San Javier Hospital Nuevo Vallarta: Eddies, Barracuda’s, Nopalitos, US Consulate,

Chasers Sports Bar Bucerias: Mark’s, Sandrina’s, Yo-Yo Mo’s, Luna Lounge, Esquina 22 La Cruz: Oso’s Oyster Bar, Octopus Garden, Tescamala Sayulita: Don Pedro’s, Punta Sayulita, Choco Banana, Sayulita Wine Shop San Pancho: Hotel Cielo Rojo

VALLARTA SHOPPI

Wheeling Vallarta Segway Tours

for shows & times visit

www.BTPV.org

Located across from McDonald’s

322-223-8014 31 de Octubre 107 Col. Centro Puerto Vallarta Malecon

...come play with us!

Tickets available -Vallarta Tickets -Theatre Box Office

287 Basilio Badillo in Old Town Box Office Phone: 044-322-728-6878

English Spoken Puerto Vallarta & Banderas Bay Real Estate * Trusts * Wills * Inmigration * Civil Criminal Specializing in Immigration. Real Estate. Condominium Law

Cell. 322 278 6694 felixzaratelawyer@gmail.com

“Remodeling and Renovations”

apero riche

THURSDAY-SUNDAY 5-7PM

Fine Art and Furniture

MEXICO

Rentals, Sales, Management

Juarez 599 El Centro 322 222 1383, 322 111 6359 www.colibridesignvallarta.com galeriacolibri@gmail.com

Are you selling your home? Over 50,000 readers each month with delivery from Mismaloya to Sayulita and the only paper distributed at the airport in International arrivals. Contact editor@vallartatribune. com to learn more!

This chic European custom arrives beachside Thursday, September 22 at 5 pm. Enjoy late afternoon sophisticated cocktails and help yourself to complimentary snacks at the bar. From 5 to 7 pm every Thursday to Sunday, nibble on delicious bites that will change daily. After work, after shopping, after a long day at the beach, indulge yourself in Sapphire Ocean Club’s casual, urbane atmosphere. www.sapphire.mx Malecon 1 Playa Los Muertos

ING AND SERVICES

www.vallartatribune.com

Marsol Friday Market by the Pier

ast chance at the Marsol Friday Market to buy Christmas presents! Consider gifting Kim’s pastries; she’s had to add an additional table to display the seasonal goodies that include: angel food cake (with homemade lemon curd), sticky buns, beignets, butter tarts, muffins, scones, cookies (huge peanut butter…soft and decadent!) and much more. And, Kim never forgets her doggie-type friends. By the way, all the proceeds of her homemade pet treats go directly to Las Animas Dog Rescue Association. Give something completely different this Holiday Season: gift a Psychic Reading done by ex-pat Canadian Kathryn. They can be done face to face personally or distant readings are also possible and viable. Invite Kathryn to your Christmas Posada to do tarot card readings for your guests. A caring, insightful gift for someone you love. Paper made from tree bark involving intricate designs is centuries old and is made by only a few families in Mexico. The Marsol Market is lucky indeed to have our own “papel amate” designer. Fermin can and will explain the long, long process of creating these unusual and gorgeous pieces to decorate your home and/or office. The most difficult will be in choosing your favourite composition; they are all exquisite. Don’t forget to have all your treasures wrapped up beautifully by Carla and Starla! The Marsol Friday Market by the Pier is open from 9:30 to 1:30 pm.

FELIZ NAVIDAD MARSOL FRIDAY MARKET BY THE PIER CADA VIERNES 9:30 am - 1:30 pm OLD FURNITURE, NEW BEGINNINGS WE PICK IT UP AT YOUR DOOR!

LET YOUR DONATION OF GENTLY USED FURNITURE / HOUSEHOLD ITEMS HAVE A HUGE IMPACT THROUGH US! WE MAKE DONATION AS SIMPLE AS POSSIBLE, PICKING IT UP AT YOUR DOOR AND ISSUING A RECEIPT ON THE SPOT. IT HAS NEVER BEEN EASIER TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN OUR COMMUNITY! YOUR DONATIONS ALLOW US TO PROVIDE A SAFE, STABLE, LOVING HOME FOR 24 GIRLS - ALL FROM HIGH RISK SITUATIONS INCLUDING ABANDONMENT, ABUSE & EXPLOITATION - WHEREIN THEY NOW HAVE A SENSE OF PERMENANCE, ACCESS TO SCHOLARSHIPS FOR ALL LEVELS OF EDUCATION PLUS ONGOING COUNSELING, MEDICAL/DENTAL ATTENTION AND MORE BY DONATING, YOU ARE HELPING US CHANGE THE COURSE OF HISTORY ONE GIRL AT A TIME!!

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL: 224 9209 322 217 2401, 322 180 8086 CASAHOGARCORAZONDENINA@HOTMAIL.COM WWW.FUNDACIONCORAZON.MX

ART ARTE JEWELRY JOYERÍA CRAFTS ARTESANÍA CLOTHING ROPA PASTRY PASTELES HOME DECOR MUEBLES HERBALIST HERBALISTA FOOD COMIDA MUSIC MÚSICA

HOTEL MARSOL

103 FRANCISCA RODRIGUEZ OLAS ALTAS

charity

Dec 22 - 28, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Non - Profit and Charitable Organizations For visitors to Puerto Vallarta who wish to support the less privileged in our paradise, this is a list of some of the many organizations that could benefit from such kind gestures. If you would like your organization recognized here, please email details to editor@vallartatribune.com. Amigos de La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, A.C. contributing to the quality of life in La Cruz through cultural, educational, environmental and charitable assistance programs. Tax Deductible. www.amigosdelacruz.org Contact Amy Welch amywelchpdx@comcast.net Alcoholics Anonymous: In English Puerto Vallarta Alanon Club - Basilio Badillo 329 recoverpv.com Amazing Grace Missions Assisting families in Magisterio & Progreso with necessities and job training and English. slw2014nv@gmail.com American Legion Post 14: raises resources and manpower to improve facilities needing building maintenance americanlegion14.org Amigos del Magisterio - Food delivered directly to workers at the PV dump, their families and schools in Magisterio and Volcanes. Also, food to New Beginnings, Pasitos de Luz, and Caritas. 100% of donations to the people, no overhead.amigosdelmagisterio.com lysephilrioux@hotmail.com Asilo San Juan Diego Home for the Elderly Contact: Lupita Sanchez Covarrubias 222-1257 or malupita88@hotmail.com or mexonline. com\asilosanjuandiego.htm Asociación Down - Assistance to persons with Down’s Syndrome – Contact: Ana Eisenring at 224-9577. Banderas Bay Women’s Shelter - Safe shelter for women & children victims of domestic violence. compassionforthefamily.org

Becas Vallarta, A.C. – Provides scholarships to high school and university students. Tax-deductible in Mexico and USA. Polly Vicars at (322) 223-1371 or Buri Gray at (322) 221-5285. CANICA - Centre for Children with Cancer. Provides aid for treatment and services including transportation to GDL. Contact Director, Evelia Basañes 322-123-5688. Casa Hogar - A shelter for orphaned, abandoned, disadvantaged or vulnerable children. Luz Aurora Arredondo at 221 1908, casahogar_maximocornejo@hotmail.com Centro Comunitario SETAC-GLBT – Services the GLBT community, including treatment and referrals, education, English classes, HIV testing and counseling. Paco Arjona 224-1974 Clinica de Rehabilitación Santa Barbara Rehabilitation of the handicapped. Contact: Laura Lopez Portillo Rodriguez at 224-2754. COLINA Spay and Neuter Clinic - Free and by-donation sterilization clinic in Old Town. Only open Saturdays, Contact: cez@rogers. com or 322-104-6609 CompassionNet Impact – Transforming the lives of people living in chronic poverty. Job creation, education, emergency & more. Tax-deductible. Cell: (322) 133-7263 or ric@ 4compassion.org Corazon de Nina A safe, loving, home-environment for 40+ children and youth rescued from high-risk situations. Donations & volunteers always welcome! Totally self-funded. www.fundacioncorazon.mx Cruz Roja (Red Cross) - Handles hospital and emergency service in Vallarta. It is the only facility that is authorized to offer assistance to injured people on the street. Contact: 222-1533, 222-4973

Desayunos para los Niños de Vallarta A.C. Feeding programs, education programs, day care centers for single mothers. 2234311 or 22225 72 Discapacitados de Vallarta, A.C. (DIVAC) association of handicapped individuals dedicated to helping one another. Ivan Applegate at 221-5153. Ecology and Conservation of Whales, AC. National Coordination Network for the Assistance of Entangled Whales. Biol. Astrid Frisch Jordán, Arce #541. Col. La Primavera Puerto Vallarta, Jal. 48325, Mexico, Tel/Fax: (322) 29 37 851 fibbcatalogo@yahoo.com Families At The Dump: Supporting families living in the landfill or garbage dump thru education and sustainable opportunities. familiesatthedump.org Fundacion Punta de Mita LDG. Ana Lilia Medina Varas de Valdés. ana@fundacionpuntademita.org Tel. (329) 291 5053 Friends of PV Animals Volunteers working to enhance the lives of shelter animals. For info and donations visit friendsofpvanimals.com Grupo Ecológico de Puerto Vallarta: Arq. Luz del Carmen Pérez A cayro_13@hotmail.com grupoecologico.com Horizonte de Paz: Welcoming shelter for men of all ages who are troubled w/alcohol & drug addiction.In great need of cash or material resources Contact MAYNOR Tel 281 0644 horizontedepaz@live.com International Friendship Club - Provides medical, educational and social services to those in need in Puerto Vallarta. www. ifcvallarta.com La Brigada de la Basura: A weekly meeting of neighborhood children to clean Vallarta Streets. Contact Que?Pasa 223-4006 Mexico Ministries & Mission, Inc. raises funds to the poor in Vallarta. Contact Fr. Jack+ 044 322 229-1129 christchurchbythesea.org Navy League - assists in the transportation of donated medical supplies from the U.S., organizes work groups to paint and repair facilities New Life Mexico - Challenging Child Poverty with health and education programs. Philippa Vernon pvp@newlifemexico.com Paraíso Felino AC Refuge and Adoption Centre for cats and kittens in the Bay of Banderas. Luis Donaldo Cel. (322) 120-4092 Pasitos de Luz - substitute home for low income children with any type of handicap, offers rehabilitation services and more. 299-4146. pasitosdeluz.org PEACEAnimals - Free mobile spay/neuter clinic operating 48 weeks a year, primarily in Puerto Vallarta. Tax-deductible. peaceanimals.org

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December 19, 2016 Grr by Lynn Lempel

Dec 22 - 28, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

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December 19, 2016 Grr by Lynn Lempel

CROSS

20/12/2016

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