Issue 854 August 16 - 22, 2013

Catch us online @ vallartatribune.com

In the Know

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LOCAL HOT SPOTS

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Trials of Travel WHERE´S THE BEEF?

August 16 - 22, 2013 Free Issue 854

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Welcome

Friday Aug 16 - 22 , 2013

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Welcome to Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit

EDITORIAL BOARD Marcia Blondin Raymond C. Beaty Lois Ellison John & Christie Forget Landon Hollander Nancy Van Landingham Robina Oliver STAFF SALES Dora Luz Luna Sales Manager Cel. 044 322 105 0183 dora@vallartatribune.com Sara B. Luna Cel. 322 157 7550 sara@vallartatribune.com M. Yolanda Meza Rojas Cel. 322 134 4191 yoly@vallartatribune.com

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.

For Up-To-Date Information Visit VallartaTribune.com

DRINKING WATER: For the 17th 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.

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of error.

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.

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 Municipal and Transit Police: 322.290.0507 Fire Department: 322.223.9476 Red Cross - Ambulance: 322.222.1533 Consulates American Consulate Nuevo Vallarta: 322.222.0069 24 hrs Guadalajara: 333.268.2145

Immigration: 322.224.7719 Consumer Protection: 01.800.468.8722 Tourism Offices Jalisco: 322.221.2676 Nayarit: 322.297.1006

Canadian Consulate 322.293.2894 24 hrs: 1.800.706.2900

Our Supporters This free Publication is brought to you with the financial support of our advertisers. Without them, we would not be here informing you, our kind readers, of all the weekly wonders of The Bay of Banderas and points south and north.

Please take the time to support the advertisers in our paper.

Christ Church By The Sea Clinica de Rehabilitacion Nayarta Dr. Gerardo Robles Productos Maderados Re/max Marina Restaurant Que Pasa Restaurant Kaiser Maximiliam

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EDITOR Lic. Madeline Milne mmilne@vallartatribune.com

BUSES: A system of urban buses with different routes can bring you from one end of the bay to the other and all the spots in between. Current fare is $6.50 pesos per ticket and passengers must purchase a new ticket every time they board another bus. There are no “transfers”.

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.

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PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS Fernando Gonzalez Corona

Calling in Mexico

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Cover Photo Hotelito Desconocido Costa Alegre Madeline Milne

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

EXPORTING PETS: Fall in 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.

GR

Here is some advice to make your trip a little easier and more enjoyable.

Editorial

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Editors Note: So after two years of living fulltime in Mexico my first set of friends have made the move that everyone else says they ‘wish’ they were brave enough to do. Coming to Mexico in your thirties with only a few pesos in your pocket can be a tough haul but when I speak to those in their fifties or sixties, most say they wish they’d made the move sooner. It’s harder because we don’t have pensions or much in the way of savings and it’s not the easiest place to make a living.

But you reconsider what it means to ‘make a living’ and Mexico can reset your priorities back to simpler times.

Gone are whole isles of shopping I don’t need anymore. Whole department stores that I don’t

Explore Banderas Bay

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uerto Vallarta is located in the middle of Banderas Bay, one of the largest bays in Mexico at nearly 100km in length.

It is bounded in the north by Punta de Mita and in the south by Cabo Corrientes. It straddles the states of Jalisco and Nayarit, divided along the Ameca River. The bay is home to many wonderful communities and an abundance of natural wonders. In the winter and spring seasons you can witness the awe inspiring beauty of the humpback whales as they calve in the warm waters of the bay, in the summer you can experience the majesty of the sea turtles hatching and returning to their watery world. The fall brings renewed vigour to the mountains and rivers with the fresh rains and revived vegetation. No matter when you visit, Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit will share their wonders with you. Here is a selection of some of the many things you can do while visiting us.

Shopping in the Zona Romantica – this charming neigh-

have to stop at on my way home from work just to get a shopping fix. (Good-bye Winner’s) Gone is the constant need to update the throw pillows in my bedroom, and the guest room and the living room and the tv room and on the outdoor patio. And don’t get me started on my need to buy shoes or purses…

Sometimes the challenges can get you down. Most of us who have lived here more than six months have faced an issue or two that tests our will to remain.

It took me about 6 months to stop asking “Why?” and just go with the flow. My son still laments about returning to Canada but,

in all honesty, he never asks for ‘things’ anymore. He doesn’t need the newest, fastest, biggest of anything any longer. Plus he speaks Spanish now and that’s just so cool. It’s a cliché but this is character building whether he likes it or not.

So when my friends got off the plane all wide-eyed and excited to begin this new chapter of their lives, it reminded me just how excited I was when I arrived. And how much my life has changed in these two years. Without a doubt, I am still in love with this country but a fresh set of eyes helps to reaffirm my decision.

bourhood is also called Old Town and is a popular residential area for expats and Mexican families.

Along the main streets you will find shops galore, filled with wonderful authentic crafts, clothing, jewelry, excellent restaurants, spas, theaters and more. Vibrant and friendly, this area offers an excellent day or two (or more!) of exploring. Close to Los Muertos beach, consider ending your day with a sunset margarita at any of the many beachfront restaurants.

Sunsets on the Malecon Sitting on the edge of the Pacific Ocean never fails to give us a sunset each night. Grab a seat at any of the number of excellent bars and restaurants along the malecon, order your favourite cocktail and let it all slip away. Once the sun has set, the malecon comes alive with families out for a stroll, plenty of live entertainment and later in the night, the nightclubs beckon.

Fresh Seafood – The bay is generous and each day we enjoy plentiful fish and seafood. Head to Bucerias where there are a number of excellent seafood restaurants on the beach serving the days catch.

The beach in Bucerias is a pristine eight kms long and an excellent beach to practice Stand-Up Paddle Boarding. During whale season it’s not unusual to see whales breaching and putting on a show just off the beach. Fresh oysters, a shrimp

cocktail or grilled red snapper are some of our favourites.

Sayulita – A short 45 minutes north of the Puerto Vallarta International Airport, Sayulita is the surfers mecca of Riviera Nayarit.

A funky town with a wonderful protected beach, this laid-back town has a hippie vibe with the organic cafes and the yoga studios to prove it. Visit the Huichol Cultural Centre for some wonderful handmade beaded jewelry or grab a surf lesson from one of the many vendors on the beach.

Cooking Classes – Recognized as one of the world’s leading cuisines, there are a number of great schools in the Puerto Vallarta area that will teach you how to master tortilla soup, enchiladas, salsas and more. Fresh seafood, abundant fruit and veggies and a sophisticated community make Vallarta a foodies dream destination. Look for a school that will take you to the markets or introduce you to the farmers and fishermen for a truly cultural experience. Don’t want to cook? Try one of the Food Tours available. Eat like a local and for three hours you will enjoy everything from Tacos to Pazole at the food stands and small comidas around town.

Galleries – It is said there are more galleries per capita in Puerto Vallarta than any other place in Mexico. Many of these galleries

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Friday Aug 16 - 22 , 2013

In the Know A local weekly guide to places, people and things

This week according to Barbara Peters 1. Visit the mini museum above Rolling Stones Leather and ask Leon about the pirates and sailing ships that visited Vallarta in our early history. Paseo Diaz Ordaz 802 (Malecon) 2. To learn more about the traditions of the Huichol see Hilda at Watakame, Libertad 327. She personally knows many of the most esteemed Huichol artists in yarn painting and bead work.

3. Invite a friend to try the comida corrida at the new restaurant on Calle Libertad, Las Margaritas. Excellent Mexican specialties.

4. Ask about art lessons at Galeria Vallarta, Guerrero 187, and browse through a great selection of original artwork. Upstairs in the building that was Vallarta´s first bank.

5. Treat yourself to a complete makeover with a new hair style, color, manicure and pedicure with Delia at

are along the side streets that run through Centro. Stop at the Tourism Office in the Main Plaza for a map or take advantage of their free walking tour. Many galleries carry high quality local crafts, established Mexican and international artists and more.

Canopy Tours, Bungee Jumping, Jet Skis – There is something for every daredevil in Puerto Vallarta. The jungle-mountains lend the perfect back drop to zipline canopy tours while the warm ocean waters below are perfect for diving, snorkeling, swimming or renting a jet ski and exploring the coast line.

Ride the bus - Buses in Puerto Vallarta are an experience all their own. You can tell the general destination of the bus by what is written on the window. Costco, Sheraton, Centro, Mismaloya you can go just about anywhere in this city on the bus. Only six and a half pesos (per bus - there are no transfers) this is a great way to explore the neighbourhoods. Head south on the bus and get a front row seat on some spectacular scenery on your way to the Vallarta Zoo. Or hop the Bucerias bus in front of Walmart and 30 minutes later you are exploring a charming beachside town. Tip: Sit on the non-sunny side of the bus.

Trust me. It gets hot.

Support Local Business One of the most popular reasons

Estetica Vanity, Ignacio Vallarta 165.

6. Café Nativo serves the best coffee and snacks and you can log in to your computer with complimentary WiFi. At Juarez, corner of Guerrero.

7. Buy a stuffed animal to give to a deserving child from the great selection at this new shop- La Pape, Juarez 546.

Barbara Peters has been a Vallarta resident since 1989 when she and her husband Gene opened Galeria Vallarta. A longtime supporter of PV she works to improve ‘Centro’ as well as the cultural/art scene. Editor of About Living Your Dream newsletter and the online Vallarta Shopping Directory, the most complete guide to shopping and dining in Puerto Vallarta.

visitors love Puerto Vallarta is because it’s a thriving city not just geared towards spring-breakers.

A fine example of this is the many small businesses that you can find in ‘Centro’ including galleries, restaurants, clothing stores, spas and more. Venture off the malecon to find the perfect souvenir. Looking for something specific check out the handy vallartashoppingdirectory.blogspot.com Volunteer - There are many wonderful organizations across the Bay that can use your help. Both time or money will be appreciated.

On Tuesdays the SPCA de PV opens up to the public and you can visit with the many animals they have rescued.

On Sundays the Brigada de Basura does a morning of neighbourhood clean-up with the local children and then they all head to Que Pasa restaurant for breakfast, activities and friendship.

They are always looking for more help. Check out the back of this paper for many of the most deserving organizations.

With all of these things to do and much much more, you’ll be wishing you had more time. Don’t despair. We will be here, awaiting your return. Enjoy your time in the beautiful bay and please come back again.

NEWS BITES

Friday Aug 16 - 22 , 2013

Business

Ferromex, the railroad network operator, will allocate 109.8 million dollars to expand its infrastructure in 2013 due to the arrival of new automotive plants in Mexico and the resulting movement of products.

Pemex from Mexico and Ecopetrol from Colombia signed a technical, academic, scientific and administrative cooperation agreement for exploration, production and refining, as well as for petrochemicals and transportation.

Copco, the Swedish industrial firm, will inject 7 million dollars in Zacatecas to build new facilities equipped with the latest technology, including a reconstruction workshop, a distribution center, a training academy and commercial support.

Cemex Nicaragua, a subsidiary of the Mexican cement company, launched two new hightech concretes that are extremely durable, of high quality, efficient and manufactured with environmentally-friendly materials.

Promotora y Operadora de Infraestructura (PINFRA) will resume construction of the Marquesa-Lerma stretch of the Mexico-Toluca highway, with an investment of up to 3.5 billion pesos.

The Flextronics Foundation shared 5,000 dollars with nine low-income students of the Universidad Tecnológica de Tijuana (UTT). The amount will cover one year’s tuition for the students of mechatronic engineering, industrial engineering and industrial operations and processes.

Nestlé México signed a licensing agreement for the refrigerator brands it sells in Mexico to third parties, to strengthen its business model and increase efficiency in its operations in the yogurt and cheese sector.

Flexi, Capa de Ozono, Charly/

Skechers, Coqueta and Audaz, shoe brands, will allocate 10 million dollars to invest in the e-commerce store Dafiti, expanding and strengthening their online sales.

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Exploring the South Shore From Conchas Chinas to Cabo Corrientes

Economy Mexico is one of the few emerging markets to have recorded growth in its GDP potential, according to the Bank of America Merrill Lynch Global Research (BofAML).

Mexico’s economy grew 2.5% annually in the second quarter of 2013, according to forecasts by the Ministry of Finance and Public Credit (SHCP).

Mexico’s international reserves reached 166.994 billion dollars as of July 19, 2013, its second consecutive increase, with a rise of 243 million dollars, informed the Bank of Mexico (Banxico).

Mexico’s price level is 41.57% lower than in the US, according to the Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) indicator and information from the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI).

The transportation subsector in Mexico will receive 191 billion pesos from the federal government to promote and develop 39 projects to increase logistics connectivity and reduce transportation costs in the country, informed the SCT.

Heading south from Puerto Vallarta will find you winding along a jungle highway with spectacular views to the ocean.

The south is an area of tranquility and lush natural spaces.

One of the most diverse areas of the world, the mountains in the South Shore offer perfect viewing for birds, butterflies, orchids and other flora. Fantastic homes cling to the cliffs, luxurious resorts nestle into coves and ever charming beach towns offer water activities, fresh seafood and plenty of welcoming smiles.

Looking for something to do? Consider exploring south of Vallarta this week.

Nogalito With 10 lines, prime river location and a great little restaurant you can spend the whole day enjoying the the Canopy Mundo Nogalito Tour. From Ziplines to bathing in the waterfall, it’s a great way to escape the summer heat.

Mismaloya You can spend a couple days in Mismaloya exploring the beach, the town and the hills behind. Check Bungee Jumping off your bucket list at Encore Bungee & Adventure Park. Build up your courage with a Tequila tour at Tequila Mama Lucia.

Recover at Casa Iguana All Suites Resort. Or for something entirely different spend the day at the Vallarta Zoo where you can hang-out with monkeys and baby tigers and help feed most of the animals. Fingers beware.

Boca de Tomatlan Concha Chinas Start your Sunday right with the scrumptious buffet breakfast overlooking the Bay at El Set Restaurant. The sunsets are pretty delicious here too.

Last town before the highways turns inland; this is a stopping point for those wishing to visit the beach towns that are boat accessible only. There are galleries, restaurants and shops for browsing. Just past Boca you will find the stunning Le Kliff Restaurant under a giant palapa with

proposal inspiring ocean and bay views. Just around the corner you will find the Vallarta Botanical Gardens. Recently recognized as one of the best botanical gardens in North America, it has a huge selection of Orchids and Agave plants. One of the best hideaways in the south shore is Chico’s Paradise. Located on the river, there are excellent swimming pools, waterfalls, a great Mexican restaurant and cool jungle to shade you through the hot summer days.

El Tuito Set inland about 20kms, El Tuito is a typical Mexican village primarily based on ranching. Here you can stop for some excellent BBQ chicken, fill up your tank and chat with the locals. Along the river you will find Villa Azalea, a small boutique hotel and organic farm that takes all the worries off your shoulders. Build on the philosophy of sustainability and luxury comforts, this recently renovated home offers solitude and sophistication. Perfect for a weekend with your love or your ladies or enjoy the $350 peso day pass that includes lunch and use of the facilities.

What do American wellness travellers want?

Wellness Tourism Worldwide has produced an interesting new report ‘U.S. Vacationers: Health, Happiness & Productivity - The Essential Report for Travel, Hospitality & Wellness Industries.’

This report offers a perspective on what American leisure travelers seek, desire and expect during a vacation.

As Americans have increasing challenges to stay healthy, the manner in which leisure time is used is critical to

Vallarta Tribune

well-being. Vacations offer time to connect, decompress, learn new skills and experience life differently. One of the great challenges in the US workforce is the ability for employees to take a vacation.

Wellness Tourism Worldwide believes that promoting leisure travel as a personal strategy for wellness and as a business strategy for economic growth benefits individuals, communities and travel-related businesses.

For any hospitality and tourism business wanting to grow, there is a premium placed on outcome driven programmes and services to improve the customer experience, which are often tied to the guest’s sense of wellbeing. Epidemic levels of stress and obesity, sleep problems and lack of balance between home and work have caused a surging interest in wellness, affecting change in the way hotels, airlines and destinations operate.

Camille Hobeb of Wellness Tourism Worldwide explains, “I have been speaking on the subject now for several years and the report is culmination of research, interviews and a U.S. consumer survey.

This report will be of interest to any travel related business interested in attracting U.S. consumers with a specific interest in wellness.

Originally published at http://www.imtj.com

Your best source for English news in the Bay of Banderas

NEWS

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Major tourism report gives pointers for medical tourism Countries that are attractive to tourists are often very attractive to health and medical tourists, while the problems that affect some countries can also hold back medical tourism.

The fifth Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report ranks 140 countries according to their attractiveness and ability to develop their travel and tourism industries.

The World Economic Forum produced the report in collaboration with Booz & Company, Deloitte, the International Air Transport Association, the World Tourism Organization and the World Travel & Tourism Council.

The 517-page report uses a combination of data from publicly

available sources, international travel and tourism institutions and experts.

The report’s cross-country analysis of the drivers of competitiveness in travel and tourism provides comparative information that is useful in business decision-making for business. It does not include specific information on medical tourism but does offer vital information on visas, government attititudes to tourism, customer safety and transport

infrastructure.

The report also contains detailed country profiles for the 140 economies featured in the study, including a guide to the most prominent travel and tourism competitive advantages and disadvantages of each.

Switzerland, Germany and Austria lead the world in terms of their travel and tourism industry competitiveness with Spain, the United Kingdom, the United States, France, Canada, Sweden and Singapore making up the top ten.

France fell four places from third in 2011 to seventh, while Spain climbed to fourth from eighth.

Also showing strong improvement were the United Kingdom - up two places to fifth - and Canada, up one place to eighth. Alongside Switzerland and Germany, the United States and Singapore maintained their positions, in sixth

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Friday Aug 16 - 22 , 2013

El Foco on C7 Radio: OVERVIEW This Monday on El Foco, we had the pleasure of speaking with Yolanda Sanchez, founder of Pasitos de Luz (Steps of Light). This non-profit has been working with children with disabilities, providing much needed care and therapies, for over a decade. If you would like to support their endeavours and become a sponsor (you can earmark your donations for specific needs, or even a specific child), please visit them at www.pasitosdeluz.org or on their Facebook page. As always, we hope you’ll join us this week on El Foco, Monday at 4:00 pm on 91.9 FM C7radio, to talk about the different facets of community participation in Puerto Vallarta. and 10th places, respectively.

Sweden, the only other country in the top 10 to fall, dropped from fifth to ninth.

New Zealand and Japan improved strongly. Emerging market economies reported mixed levels of progress, with Brazil and India being the only BRIC nations to move up in the rankings. Rising stars include Panama and the Philippines.

With travel and tourism accounting for one in 11 jobs globally, the report highlights that the industry can be a key factor in paving the way for developing and emerging markets to diversify into higher value economic activities.

The lesson for medical tourism is that the most successful countries are not those that offer cheap holidays.

The Met Opera HD Broadcasts are Back!!!

In The News

David J. Rohde hile that might not get everyone excited it has thrilled a coterie of fans in PV. The reason is that the return of this venue was in doubt until very recently.

Last year’s sales did not deem a return to be in the best financial interests of Teatro Vallarta, but an online campaign and the letter writing of a number of devotees changed minds.

WHY SHOULD I CARE? I´M NOT FAN OF OPERA. Here´s the reason: ENTERTAINMENT VALUE. If you like classical music or opera arias and are not sure if you could digest a complete opera, here is your chance to be enlightened AND entertained in a completely different manner.

The HD simulcasts provide so much more than a seat at the Metropolitan Opera House. You won´t get a live voice, but how many people even knowwhat an unmiked voice sounds like today?

Here are a few other details that you might not be aware of.

When you go to live performance you go to your seat, the curtain goes up and the curtain goes down and you watch and listen to what´s in between. With the Met simulcasts there is a star of the Met, not performing that

Mexican Alsea now owns 100% of the coffee shop’s operations in Argentina. The company purchased 18% of the local affiliate from its now former partner for an undisclosed amount and kept 82% of the Chilean subsidiary as part of the same operation

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day, backstage to welcome you to the Met and give information, often a synopsis of Act I. The camera then goes to the orchestra pit and the conductor takes the podium, the overture begins followed by Act I. As the curtain drops the camera is again backstage and one of the principals that day is handed a microphone and interviewed about the opera and his or her role in it.

During other intermissions various tech people can be interviewed. Directors of new productions, conductors, costumers and stagehand are some of the past seasons interviewees.

One example: last season a lake took up most of the stage and had to be drained an removed

safely between acts. The stage director explained that a huge tray containing the lake is moved offstage and then drained, avoiding damage to costly equipment below the main stage.

A GIFT TO PUERTO VALLARTA Last year Teatro Vallarta tried to appeal to all audiences and realized that Mexicans unfortunately were not taking to this art form. Hence they switched to subtitles in english.

I hope you realize how accessible this makes opera and affords a much great viewing enjoyment.

Please give the Met´s HD simulcasts a try and, I believe, you will not be disappointed. The first of the season if “Eugene Onegin” with an all-star cast. Other war horses to be presented this season are Tosca and La Boheme. How many of you remember the music from Kismet?

Stranger in Paradise? Well, much of the score of that musical is based on “Prince Igor” to be presented early in 2014 For times and a list of all presentation go to metoperafamily.org. All performances are on Saturdays and usually start at noon.

Talks in both English and Spanish are given before each performance by Paco Ojeda.

Don´t miss a one.

“Mexican Alsea purchased 100% of Starbucks in the country” El Clarín, 18/07/2013

“Mexican economy grows at fastest pace in six months” Reuters, 25/07/2013 Mexico’s economy expanded in May by the most in six months, helped by strength in the industrial sector, and partially making up for April’s slump. Mexico’s monthly GDP proxy rose by 0.45% in May compared with the prior month, rebounding from an upwardly revised 0.71% contraction in April, according to INEGI.

“Breaking taboo, Mexico government aims to tax food, medicine” Reuters, 26/07/2013 Mexico plans to boost its tax coffers by an extra 50 billion dollars a year with an overhaul that aims to extend sales tax coverage, close tax loopholes and could impose charges on capital gains.

“Car production in Mexico attracting attention” Al Jazeera, 30/07/2013 Mexico’s president is promising to boost the economy to compete with other manufacturing powerhouses.

One industry already attracting foreign attention is car production –hundreds of millions of dollars are being promised by outside investors.

Local

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Friday Aug 16 - 22 , 2013

PV Sea Dive

By Erin Staley oldtownfm.com

By Sue Keevil pvseadive.com

Sidney,BC

The Local Food Movement and Farmers’ Markets – A Win-Win for the Community

Being a Dive Instructor

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armers’ markets are booming in North America, and it’s no wonder. They are colorful, lively attractions that reflect the spirit of a community. Bountiful in “make it, bake it, grow it” selections, farmers’ markets offer a buy-direct option for shoppers who want to guarantee the safety of their food. Over the last decade, food security has become a worldwide concern. Industrial food companies promote global food production with genetically modified produce, limitations on seed varieties and imported food selections. Should something happen to the regional food supply – natural disaster, pest outbreak or quarantine – thousands of people would be severely affected.

Food security is also a concern here in the Banderas Bay area.

Many local farms are used for monocropping, the practice of mass planting the same crop without crop rotation or resting the soil. This practice, while convenient for the farmer, does not add much diversity to the

Salt Spring Island Market

Moss Street Market

local food supply. Vallarta residents are working to reverse this by taking a page from Vancouver Island’s local food movement.

In the 1970s, Vancouver Island grew 90 percent of their food. Over time, residents began relying on food importation, so much so that the percentage dropped to 5 percent. If a crisis were to strike, the food supply would be wiped out. The Vancouver Island community acted quickly. They increased small farm production and started green houses. Today, residents grow 95 percent of their own produce.

The popularity of the local food movement seems to go hand in hand with the increase in North American farmers’ markets. In 1994, the U.S. Department of Agriculture noted that there were 1,755 farmers’ markets in the

U.S. Almost 20 years later, there are over 8,000. A similar growth has occurred in Canada where farmers’ and shoppers unite on food safety practices.

Here in Puerto Vallarta, conscientious consumers are becoming food safety advocates.

They are cultivating gardens and purchasing land for small farm cooperatives. They are also focusing their buying efforts on farmers’ markets where selections have been grown, made or processed locally. As the demand for high-quality, home-grown produce increases; regional food systems will only improve. It’s a win-win for the entire community.

You, too, can join the local food movement right here in Puerto Vallarta. Visit any one of area’s farmers’ markets for a mouth-watering selection of fruits and vegetables. And don’t forget to pick up locally made artisan products including baked goods, handcrafted souvenirs, customized clothing and musthave accessories.

Be sure to mark your calendars as the Old Town Farmers’ Market-Tianguis Cultural will reopen on Saturday, November 2. Located along Basilio Badillo between Olas Altas and Ignacio Vallarta, the Market is open every Saturday from 9:30 am to 2 pm from the first Saturday in November to the last Saturday in May. For more information, visit www.oldtownfm.com or “like” us on Facebook.

Sources: www.ams.usda.gov

his has to be the most satisfying job I have ever done for many reasons, but it´s not all glamour and wild parties, honest, no matter what you may have heard.

A dive instructor is never going to get rich, but, teaching someone to enjoy what you are passionate about really cannot come under the umbrella of work.

You can constantly travel the world, meet cool people, and live a lifestyle that most can only dream about.

There are always jobs to be found, even in a recession, divers will always find the money necessary to fulfil the need to dive. Padi (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) had their most successful year during the recession in the early 2000´s, and it doesn´t seem to be any different now.

Escaping the rigours of life by playing a round of golf, skiing down a black run or diving in the ocean can relax people as much as having a spa day, which incidentally, would wind me up immensely!

I had it fairly easy when I started off as a dive professional as I was offered a job teaching at the college I trained at. Little did I know it would involve working 6 and half days a week, and 16 hours days, but I sure did learn my trade.

Through the experience I gained, I was offered a job in Borneo with a $200 bonus if I could get there within the week!

What a bonus that was when the flights cost $1,200!

This was a new company, so I had nothing to do when I arrived, therefore earned nothing for the first few months until a bit of marketing paid off and I became busy.

Here again, I worked 6 days a week and dived 3 or 4 times

a day, but this was fun as the diving there was simply the best the world has to offer.

Living on a tiny island for 2 years with a poor diet, no electricity, no running water and no alcohol made me crave civilization though.

I swear if I hear someone playing (not very well) yet another Beatles medley on the guitar again, I will, well, swear!

It was all helped by the fact that I managed to smuggle in some local rum to ease the guitar pain.

The decision to move to Puerto Vallarta has to be singly the smartest decision I have ever made.

The need to own my own diving business made moving here the obvious choice.

I had visited Vallarta on a number of occasions the first time I lived in Mexico, and I fell in love with something that I still struggle to define.

Personally, having been a climber in my youth and a diver in my, well, when I got a bit older, the intimacy of the mountains and the ocean are very appealing to me.

Pop this together with the fact that the atmosphere here is super relaxed, the locals are sweet and welcoming, the food is off the chart and it is as pretty a picture, making this the perfect place for anyone to visit or live.

Local

Friday Aug 16 - 22 , 2013

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Paradise and Parenting

This is Paradise...

By Leza Warkentin rhythm2rain@gmail.com

By Marcia Blondin marcia.blondin@ymail.com

Perfect Family Escape

Seaglass Treasures

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elcome to the Paradise Community Center in Old Town Puerto Vallarta.

Every Saturday, all year long, we host The Co-op Market that brings all kinds of interesting products to tourists and locals alike. Lots of food is available including homegrown organic produce, homemade breads, exotic coffee blends and wonderful craftspeople producing clothes, shoes, jewelry and much more.

One of our newer vendors shares a bit of her story and how she came to be involved in our friendly, happy Market. Read on…

“My husband and I took our very first trip together 18 years ago to Puerto Vallarta. We fell in love with the Bay of Banderas, the culture and people. Our love for Vallarta has brought us back here many times over the years. After our last vacation here two years ago we went home to Dallas, but our hearts were still here. On a whim, we decided to move here.

We put our house on the market and sold it in a week. We then set about selling and giving away 99% of our personal belongings and moving here with just our 3 dogs and what would fit in our SUV. From the time we made our decision, it was six months. That was two years ago. It has been a wonderful journey and I haven’t looked back!

The sea inspires me, absolutely. And the memories and feelings that a simple piece of seaglass or other beach treasure can provoke. And the bohemian heart in all of us that reminds us to follow our dreams, to be kind to one another and to mother nature; to enjoy what we have, to laugh and play as often as we can. I’m also inspired by so many others here, expats and nationals alike.

This community embraces art and appreciates what it takes to make something with your own hands.

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After moving here, I kept asking myself what I wanted to do and what inspired me. I started playing around with the idea of making jewelry out of the hundreds of shards of seaglass I had collected and my handcrafted jewelry business went from an idea to a dream to a reality.

The overwhelming response to my pieces from others has been amazing. I’ve heard so many inspiring stories about their favorite beachcombing experience or treasure and what it means to them. It validates that a piece of found seaglass is so much more; it’s a memory, a feeling, a token from the sea. I’ve been honored to create custom pieces for so many other boho souls, from people with terminal illness so that their loved ones can remember that one special adventure, to surfer girls wanting to carry their treasures with them. I’m upcycling a gem that was once trash and turning it into a treasure that will hopefully bring a smile to someone’s face.

My designs are ever evolving and I will continue to mix current trends in with my signature style. I offer custom orders and am always hunting for that next perfect beach treasure! I will be at the Saturday Market Co-Op through August 17th and hope to return at the end of October, ready for a fantastic season!”

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ome people choose vacation spots for the location.

Others always start with price. Still more check for just the right amenities. And I agree, these are definitely good things to ask about before handing out your credit card number.

I’m more than happy when a resort or hotel meets our criteria in these areas. Now that I am a parent, however, there’s an item that tops the list: the likelihood that my children are free to act like kids on vacation are supposed to act without causing some kind of irreversible trauma to my parenting self-esteem.

I absolutely want to know that our vacation spots are family-friendly before I release, into a new lobby full of fascinating and breakable things, two children who may have been eating high-fructose corn syrup snacks and attempting to win mommy’s “Quiet Game” in the car all the way there.

My husband and I have become generous tippers for the longsuffering cleaning staff wherever we stay, feeling like the managers to some unruly, recently signed rock band. We always do as thorough a pre-clean

as we can without a broom or a plunger handy, but I always find that it’s impossible to make a bed look unjumped-in until they come and redo the sheets. I hold out fervent hope that it cannot compare to Billy Idol’s $250,000 tour of hotel room destruction in Thailand a few years ago.

I am happy to report that our latest spot, Mar de Jade, A Yoga, Wellness & Vacation Retreat Center, is not only kid-friendly, it is a lovely oasis of relaxation for parents of every last pint-sized rock star.

Mar de Jade is located in Chacala, a lovely little pueblito

about 100 km north of Puerto Vallarta. It boasts a population of about 300 full-time residents.

Mar de Jade is a beachfront resort set against the jungle at the south end of the little town. It was first opened in 1983 by Dr. Laura del Valle, who wished to practice rural medicine while running a yoga and wellness retreat. While the hotel has certainly grown physically during these last 30 years, the retreats continue, and the spirit of community here is evident to this day. The resort is still run by Dr. Laura del Valle and her family, and they are still operating several community projects, including a kids’ club and an organic farm among others. They also use many locally sourced products throughout the resort, including in the kitchen, and the food is both healthy and delicious.

Mar de Jade is a place where your children can splash in a massive family pool, a kids’ pool, or, in summer, a cold Jacuzzi while you chill out on a deck chair (in deep recline mode) and enjoy a Chacala sunset from the bar. You will also need to towel off once in awhile and enjoy the endless beach with its fine beige sand and gentle surf. Young explorers will enjoy watching hermit crabs and collecting samples of porous volcanic rock.

Be sure to explore little Chacala, with its friendly citizens offering palapa restaurants on the beach and convenient tienditas a block up from the ocean.

Once the kiddos have finally played enough air guitar in the pool, they will crash into bed and leave you on the terrace to truly hear and enjoy those peaceful evening sounds of the tropics, waves crashing, cicadas buzzing, toads galumphing, and , best of all, yourself thinking. Heck, you may never leave.

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Friday Aug 16 - 22 , 2013

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Where’s the Beef?

by Stephanie Madan

I

apologize for that recent excitement at Puerto Vallarta International Airport. Although it had never been my ambition to create an international incident, there are some things you just have to do. Someone had to speak for the dogs.

Amanda, our Westie, and Rachel, our mainly wire hair terrier, joined us on that trip to Puerto Vallarta. It was Rachel’s first visit to our house there.

She was enjoying an extended puppyhood and ever so happy gnawing on anything she could get her teeth into. Paul and I noticed she preferred furniture legs and millwork along the lower edge of walls, but she was not above chomping on those fake plastic tea-light candles set around our pool occasionally to dazzle visitors. An innovative and humane strategy of redirection was called for.

So, I brought chewies with me from Houston. Not innovative, true, but unquestionably humane. Rachel enters her state of purest joy when offered a chewy. She instantly abandons furniture legs, millwork, and plastic faux candles. She jumps into the air quivering with anticipation and executes a double pirouette before she lands; all the while making little squeaks I interpret as endearments meant for the chewy. Amanda, past her puppyhood, considers it deeply uncool to leap for chewies, but she chews on them with enthu-

siasm, if only for old times’ sake The chewies I purchased were beef flavored. They were made from a vegetable base so their appeal was solely the flavor of beef. I emphasize that they were beef flavored and also in their original packaging.

I was not bringing in meaty soup bones, for heaven’s sake.

I define food as a substance one voluntarily places in one’s mouth and swallows. Dog chewies, therefore, are not food.

Chewing gum, therefore, is not food. They are stand- ins for food. Neither is swallowed. If the general population has accepted that chewing gum is nowhere to be found in the food pyramid and if dogs everywhere have determined the same thing regarding chewies, what prevents the crack team of customs agents managing import security at Puerto Vallarta International Airport from doing so? This is how import security is managed by the customs office at Puerto Vallarta International Airport: Press a button – If the light is green, you may continue your journey. If the light is red, you are not going anywhere till the person in charge says so. This is putting a lot of faith in a button.

Seriously, how many threats to Mexico’s well-being have been neutralized via this method?

Well, now we know of at least one.

Paul and I caught the customs’ red light that trip which meant accepting a luggage search before going on our way. I, for one, was cheerful about it. It gave me an opportunity to pretend I am flexible and not easily ruffled. This matters because Paul has mentioned more than once that he knows of fifteen people he would rather travel with than me.

We slung our luggage up on

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an inspection table. A young fellow unzipped my suitcase and noticed the bags of chewies right off. He was stunned by such luck.

He had just prevented criminal entry of numerous prohibited items into Mexico.

He eyed me. He looked again at the chewies and injected his inspection with new vigor. A genuine incident was unfolding at his table. When you are at the bottom of the customs food chain, thwarting an international smuggler is no small thing. The thrill in his expression was truly touching. Sure enough, there were more chewy bags stuffed in whatever air pockets had been available in my suitcase. He told me they were forbidden. I told him that was ridiculous.

The young man laid the chewy bags out on the table and summoned the customs supervisor of the Puerto Vallarta International Airport.

As I have mentioned, there are times when you have to do what you have to do, no matter that it plays out as an international incident. The battle with the customs supervisor began.

She immediately announced to me in broken English and with finality: The chewies are beef.

They are forbidden food. We are taking them.

Her expression was disdainful as she prepared to collect them and be off.

And welcome to you, too. Have some bottled water. Obviously she was making her decision

before collecting all the facts so I began to acquaint her with them.

No, they aren’t forbidden, I conveyed to her in my inventive Spanish. First, they aren’t food.

Dogs don’t eat chewies. If they did, chewies would not be called chewies.

‘Swallowies’ doesn’t resonate as a replacement, but it would not be difficult to come up with something catchy. In any event, chewies would not be their name.

Dogs chew them till the flavors are exhausted and then store them in peculiar places. They do not ingest them. Second, the chewies in question are vegetable based. They are beef-flavored, not beef.

I reached over to pick a chewy bag up to point out the ingredients listed on the label, but that customs supervisor of the Puerto Vallarta International Airport objected with fury more reasonably associated with someone reaching for an automatic weapon. I was not allowed to touch the contraband even if it was my contraband. I wondered,

The true nature of the Puerto Vallarta International Airport customs supervisor was revealed as I continued to debate with her. I regret to report she is a disagreeable sort. She insisted that the vegetable-based chewy was beef each time I voiced my assertion it was not. She did this in a strident voice of increasing volume. The volume part was pure theatrics, considering we were now in each other’s face.

Possibly she was concerned the chewies were freeze-dried cows that would rise up as porterhouse steaks with malicious intent once hydrated.

I concluded I was communicating with the wrong level of management.

I politely asked to speak to the store manager; thinking a bit of levity might improve the atmosphere. As she did not respond in a light-hearted way, I am guessing my Spanish version of that request was imperfect. Instead I was awarded a glare she did not discard as our dialogue continued.

based on my masterful interpretation of body language, if there was some concern I might swallow the evidence. Ha! My point exactly – the swallowing part. I fell back on Plan B and invited her to read for herself the words on the wrapper. The invitation was declined.

Maybe she had lost her reading glasses, but I suspect she just felt like asserting her sweeping power over me. By now a small crowd had formed, comprised of all the people the young fellow on the lowest rung of the customs food chain could muster. The customs office had an incident going and it was his.

Willful obtuseness in others leads to impatience on my part.

I commented to no one in particular that any person possessing a brain knows vegetable-based dog chewies in original packaging pose no threat to the great country of Mexico. She accepted this in the spirit it was conveyed.

Her glare grew fiercer and I was taking less and less pleasure in her company. Accusations of smuggling hurt my feelings and bring out the worst in me. I returned her glare.

The customs supervisor began scribbling something on an official-looking form which she eventually thrust into my hands. I asked her if it included

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9

Friday Aug 16 - 22 , 2013

Dining in Puerto Vallarta

By Gary R. Beck

M

the name of her supervisor so I could report her ghastly manners and defective judgment.

There is no one else, she hissed.

As she scribbled, Paul had wisely edged away from me.

Someone needed to remain free to hire the attorney after they took me into custody. For all we knew, that piece of paper consigned me to a dank and squalid Mexican prison. (Charming prisons may exist all over Mexico, but I had only reality shows to draw on for my information.)

I paused. I saw myself in prison, attired in an orange prison jumpsuit. Orange does not suit me. Jumpsuits are passé. And internet speed would be slow. Cocktail hour would be absent. Sushi would be rare.

(Couldn’t resist that.)

My love for Amanda and Rachel is deep, but rational: Serving a stint in prison would deprive them of a mother and me of almost everything. I hated doing it, but I began a dignified retreat. The supervisor seized the chewies and probably took them home to her own dog, although she does not seem the type to share. It was painful. I was beaten. But I was free.

So, here’s how things ended up: Paul and I got to our car and, once safely off airport premises, I deciphered her scribbles. The words announced the items had been confiscated. Nothing more.

Next, we stopped by a grocery store on the way to the house.

There we discovered Mexican dog chewies on the pet aisle.

The pet aisle is one I had never investigated, for the good reason that we had not before required

replacements for confiscated stowaway chewies. The chewies we spotted were similar to the ones seized. In fact they were so similar the dogs would not be able to tell. I wish I had known that.

I have since familiarized myself with the prohibited items list. Fruits are prohibited. What about that peach-flavored lip gloss I brought into Mexico? Was the Mexican agricultural system compromised as a result of the flavoring in my gloss? This is a slippery slope that Mexico must face squarely and at once. The threat of peach-flavored gloss has been overlooked. What else has been missed?

When the Mexican government heeds my warning and gets moving on this, everyone in the customs office food chain at Puerto Vallarta International Airport will no doubt be instructed to read the labeling.

Flavoring will be given a precise definition. And if the wise heads of the Mexican government decree that the customs supervisor of the Puerto Vallarta Airport must wear an orange jumpsuit and enjoy no internet access for a month or so as penance for being so disagreeable, my hurt feelings will be mollified. I have hope, but I manage my expectations.

Stephanie Madan is an exceptionally peaceable writer who avoids confrontations till she can’t anymore. Her most violent act to date is flinging half of a chocolate pecan pie into the garbage can and covering it with wet coffee grounds. She did this right after eating the first half.

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ost travelers explore the region’s offerings for dining experiences in various cuisines. Puerto Vallarta has slowly risen to the top in culinary opportunities throughout Mexico. Many surveys rank the Bahía de Banderas area second only to the capital city, passing Guadalajara. Here we are blessed with an array of cultures and cuisines ranging from traditional Mexican to gourmet Mexican, Spanish to Italian, Japanese to Indian, South American to German, Austrian and Swiss. That is only the beginning. Prices range from budget like taco stands, street vendors and small cafés to reasonable and moderate, found much lower in price than comparable cities throughout the world. Expensive restaurants in the Puerto Vallarta area offer much more than food; rather an entire evening experience: many places glowing with ambiance, decorated with beautiful local art accentuated by talented performers offering fine music, resulting in a most pleasurable event at prices lower than one has been accustomed.

It is not uncommon to enter a small eatery and discover the chef/owner is from Italy and he makes his own pasta and pizza dough. Very fresh local ingredients are used in every creation, from fruits and vegetables to meats and seafood, adding a vibrant explosion of flavors and smells. All ingredients are made safe though washing in purified water. Support is extended to the Jaliscan farmers who work long hard hours under the blazing sun, producing crops as their families have done for many decades.

For diners who have an interest in learning more about the cuisine of Mexico, consider branching out from the usual tacos and enchiladas when visiting the myriad of places offering good home-cooked traditional food. Have you sampled gringas, sopes, volcanes, molcajete dishes, enmoladas, chilaquiles and molé? Not all chiles are hot and hotter. Poblano [as in chile relleno] and smoky chipotle [especially in a cream sauce] are ranked on the mild side,

yet enhance the preparations with unique flavor. Menudo and pozole are two popular creations enjoyed by the locals and daring gringos.

In addition to hundreds of locally grown vegetables, observe the fruits available for snacks, garnishes, salads, smoothies and desserts: mango, papaya, pineapple, pear, guava, strawberry, cantaloupe, watermelon, lime, apple, banana, coconut, passionfruit, starfruit, tamarind, orange, tangerine, coconut and guayaba. Carmen Miranda’s hat is plenty packed.

Banderas Bay is one of the world’s largest bays, measuring 26 miles from east to west and 20 miles from north to south. The bay starts to the North in Punta Mita which is also the end of the Sierra de Vallejo mountains

and, to the south, ends in Cabo Corrientes, part of the foothills of the Sierra del Cuale mountain range. Logically, Puerto Vallarta teems with fresh fish and seafood. Often found are: tilapia, huachinango [red snapper], dorado [mahi mahi], sea bass, eel, marlin, oyster, clam, mussel, trout, salmon, octopus, crab, lobster, langostino [crayfish], halibut, squid, scallop, tuna and shrimp. Whether eaten raw, grilled, broiled, baked, smoked or sauced with anything from a creamy cilantro to ajillo garlic chile, the freshest fish available is a treat to the taste buds.

There is no need to subsist on “United States-style” hamburgers and pizza. When visiting Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, relax and explore the vast surprising treats right here at your fingertips.

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Friday Aug 16 - 22 , 2013

Restoring History: Hacienda San Jose Acamilpa, Cuernavaca

What does $20m buy you today?

By Madeline Milne acienda San Jose Acamilpa, Cuernavaca What does $20,000,000 dollars buy you in Mexico? Well actually a lot. If you had $20,000,000 burning a hole in your pocket you could purchase this piece of Mexican history.

Step back in time while you tour this magnificent sugar mill and former colonial “Hacienda” with eleven bedrooms and thirteen bathrooms. It is fully restored, completely furnished, located in the municipality of Tlaltizapan, Morelos, located twenty kilometers south of Cuernavaca. Its origins date back to the early 17th century.

The property is about 7,000 2m on approximately six hectares. In all reality it is perfect for a boutique hotel with its close proximity to affluent city of Cuernavaca.

The main house is perfectly restored to be a stunning example of a traditional Hacienda. With two stories that are accessed through beautiful

H

wide arched corridors, there is a natural stone courtyard in front of the house, and a magnificent wall facing the garden, decorated with a central fountain and ponds that continue to an area that previously served as an aqueduct, bringing water to the mill.

Terrace and swimming pool are in front of the central patio and the aquaduct runs through the middle of the pool.

It is a stunning example of and provide easy access to the dining room, bar and outdoor patio.

The garage has a room for five of your finest vehicles, in a barrel vault arch constructed building..

Each hacienda had their own church and this home has a fully restored church in perfect condition, which overlooks the central courtyard with a wide parishioner’s area, a restored altarpiece and choir area. This building maintains its original stone bell tower with a brick dome done in “talavera” style, topped by stone orna-

ments and bells.

If swimming all day isn’t your thing you can also stroll through the exquisite gardens, play a tennis match or ride horses through your lands. Having toured a number of haciendas

and restored 17th century churches, this property is as fine as an example of traditional hacienda as any I’ve seen.

At twenty million, this piece of paradise is going to make you feel a little like Spanish nobility.

Interested? Let me know and I’ll pass on the referral.

Photos supplied by Sotheby’s Int’l Realty Guadalajara.

LOCAL

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11

Wanderings on Olas Altas

By Poncho Davalos

Sunday Fun day Is this the first time you-ve been to in Puerto Vallarta? Well, let me tell you, you need to “live it to believe it.” Puerto Vallarta is not just nightclubs and Los Muertos Beach. The town offers you a lot of things to do. I have been in this paradise almost five years and I had not done ‘the hike’. Probably you’re asking yourself, so, why are you writing about it? Because last Sunday – fun day I finally had the opportunity to do it. Some friends who had done the hike before invited me and I decided to try something new.

We drove from Olas Altas to Boca de Tomatlan which is about 13 kilometers away, after this short drive the adventure started. To be honest, this hike was beyond my expectations, thanks to the rainy season everything was green and beautiful. The first stop was at Playa Colomitos which is a small beautiful beach cove, with the friendlies resident Great Dane is the mascot for the local restaurant on this beach; until now the hike takes about 30 to 40 minutes depending on your physical condition.

The adventure continued almost 30 minutes more, but in my opinion, this was the best part, the part between Playa Colomitos and Las Animas. The beach was amazing and the water was very clear and warm. At this point we were close to our last destination on Las Animas beach. We picked one of the restaurants located in this fishing village and ordered

Friday Aug 16 - 22 , 2013

International Congress of Echocardiography in Puerto Vallarta The National Society of Echocardiography is holding its International Congress of Echocardiography in Puerto Vallarta from the 15th to the 17th of August at the Sheraton Hotel. Many esteemed medical experts will attend and the catch of the day - a fish of almost 3 kilos ( 6.61 lbs )!! We also enjoyed a well-deserved slice of pie we bought from the famous pie lady who sells pecan, chocolate or cheese pie. The chocolate is my favorite.

The fish was so delicious and it was perfect for the 6 of us - we ended up so full and happy. It was almost time to go back home. Two of our friends decide to take the panga back. Their panga ride was about 15 minutes and the cost was 250 pesos ( 20 usd ). The rest of us decided to walk all the way back to Boca de Tomatlan. On the way back I was thinking how lucky I am to live in Puerto Vallarta, I have everything here; fun, beach, mountains, friendly people and nice gay nightclubs/ bars.

Don’t forget, this hike requires you to be average to very physically fit. Wear appropriate shoes and carry water.

Hey guys! For more information where you can hike feel free to e-mail me at Alfonso@tropicasa.com Poncho Davalos is a sales agent for Tropicasa Realty, he can help you to find your dream home contact him or visit www.tropicasa.com for more information.

enjoy the amenities of our city.

Local doctors, hospitals and clinics offer a wide range of medical tourism services and events such as this help to position Puerto Vallarta as a respected destination for medical tourism.

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Friday Aug 16 - 22 , 2013

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Fun on the Riviera Nayarit

By Cat Morgan www.rivieranayaritfun.com

Cheap eats in Nayarit

I

f you have ever been to Nayarit, then you know what I am mean when I write about Tacos.

Prices range from 5 to 12 pesos.

The vendors are everywhere selling tacos, and just about anything else that can be stuffed in a tortilla! Vendors with carts, baskets, buckets and more roam the streets selling their wares, or the Taco Carts find their corners and put a few tables around them so you can sit down to eat. There are also larger restaurants with many tables for sitting and eating.

They typically also serve all kinds of delicious drinks, like Horcheta, (a rice and milk drink) Jamaica (steeped Hibiscus flowers ) and Atole (a hot corn drink), all which have a lot of added sugar. I enjoy making my own Jamaica with a

lot less sugar right at home! The folks that live here seem to have their favorite Taco eateries...I know I do!

Fresh Tortillas I love watching the women in the restaurants and stands hand making tortillas, making tortilla after tortilla for hours on end. I like to tip them personally. What a labor of love! Tortillas, made from corn are still a big part of the mainstay in the Mexico diet. Kernels are cooked with lime to remove the husk, and ground down. They then form the corn in to little round balls, and either pat out by hand, or put in a tortilla press, known as

a tortilladora, and are used only for corn. You can also hand roll them, but I have heard it-s not that easy! You can also purchase the Masa mix to make tortillas as well.

The options of what you can put in a tortilla is endless!

Every town also has a shop that only makes tortillas called a to r t i l l e r i a .

Most tortillerias only make corn, but some make wheat as well. Sometimes you will find a person that travels on a moped or bicycle selling tortillas. If you let them know you would like them on a regular basis they will deliver. Purchasing freshly home/made tortillas is wonderful. Having them delivered is even better!

A Wide Variety of Tacos There is a lot of different tacos.

It took me awhile to figure out what the vendors were selling when I first moved here. For me, I really enjoy the Adobada style.

The Asada, or steak tacos have finely chopped beef. If you have ever ordered a regular beef steak here in Mexico, you know then why they cut their meat into very tiny pieces! The fish and shrimp tacos come fried or grilled. It’s important to watch out for old oil.

Getting the “torista” is no fun at all!

• Tacos de Asador (“spit” or “grill” tacos) may be composed of any of the following: Carne Asada (beef) tacos; tacos de tripita, (Tripe tacos), grilled until crisp; and, Chorizo Asado (traditional Spanish style sausage). Each type is served on two overlapped small tortillas and sometimes garnishes can include guacamole, variety of salsas, onions and cilantro.

• Tacos de Cabeza or head tacos, in which there is a flat punctured metal plate from which steam emerges to cook the head of the cow. These include: Cabeza, a serving of the muscles of the head; Sesos, (“brains”); Legua, (“tongue”) which I have seen a lot; Cachete (“cheeks”); Trompa (“lips”); and, Ojo (“eye”).

• Tacos de Cazo for which a metal bowl filled with lard is typically used as a deep-fryer. Meats for these types of tacos typically include: Tripa (“tripe”, usually from a pig instead of a cow); Suadero (tender beef cuts), Carnitas and Buche (Literally, “beak”, as in bird’s beak; or it is fried pig’s esophagus • Tacos sudados (“sweaty

Friday Aug 16 - 22 , 2013

tacos”) are made by filling soft tortillas with a spicy meat mixture, then placing them in a basket covered with cloth. The covering keeps the tacos warm and traps steam (“sweat”) which softens them.

Tacos Al Pastor de Adobada are made of thin pork steaks seasoned with adobo seasoning, then skewered and overlapped on one another on a vertical rotisserie cooked and flame-broiled as it spins.

• Tacos dorados (fried tacos, literally, “golden tacos”) called flautas (“flute”, because of the shape), or taquitos, for which the tortillas are filled with pre-cooked shredded chicken, beef , rolled into an elongated cylinder and deep-fried until crisp.

• Tacos de pescado (“fish tacos”) originated in Baja, where they consist of grilled or fried fish, lettuce or cabbage, pico de gallo, and a sour cream or a spicy mayonnaise sauce, all placed on top of a corn or flour tortilla.

• Tacos de camarones (“shrimp tacos”) Grilled or fried shrimp are used, usually with the same accompaniments as fish tacos: lettuce or cabbage, pico de gallo, avocado and a sour cream or that spicy citrus/mayonnaise sauce, all placed on top of a corn or flour tortilla.

Most places have a variety of toppings available with whole or sliced red radishes, limes, salt, pickled or grilled chili’s, jalapenos, cucumber slices, and salsas.

Sometimes they also serve delicious small whole grilled onions that come on your plate with the tacos. I don’t know how they sell them for such a low price. For me, I love going out for Cheap Tacos every week. They are tasty, and the people are always friendly.

Dining out for 50 pesos is right in my budget!...not including any Coronas that is!

Cat Morgan is owner of the RivieraNayaritFun Regional Network. Contact her with any comments or questions, or news on the Riviera Nayarit at Cat@RivieraNayaritFun.com

Friday Aug 16 - 22 , 2013

RIVIERA NAYARIT

17

www.vallartatribune.com

Riviera Nayarit starts Restaurant Association

By Riley Hunter

Sayulita Teen Brings National Silver Medal Home with Pride

S

ayulita’s own local boxing hero, Romario Cardenas Ruiz, brought home a silver medal to Sayulita, after a tough loss in the championship bout of the Olimpiada Nacional tournament in Baja. However, cheers, applause, praise and proud-faced friends greeted him upon his return home.

El Sayulero had the chance to sit down with him and his boxing club, to learn his story and his quick rise to the top.

With only 1 year under his belt, it is an amazing accomplishment and a true testament to the professionalism of Romario’s boxing club, Pegando Fuerte or “hitting hard,” which was formed in August 2012. The club was founded by a group of local men that summer, due to their love for boxing, and the desire to keep neighborhood boys out of trouble. Francisco Cadenas, a founding member and boxing enthusiast, remembers how Romario loved to come to his house every Saturday to watch boxing matches on TV. Afterwards, they would practice in the backyard, attempting to emulate the famed warriors.

Romario became fascinated with boxing, due to Francisco’s enthusiasm for the sport.

He soon picked favorites such as the Mexican lightweight, Saul Alvarez “El Canelo,” and Ukraine’s infamousheavyweights, the Klitschko brothers.

Francisco remembers asking Romario at a

young age, “do you like boxing?”

To which his repy was, “I want to fight like El Canelo!” As time passed, Francisco and Romario took their training sessions a little more serious. Romario grew, and as he matured, it became very clear that he would not be a quick lightweight like his idol “El Canelo,” but a big heavy-hitter like the Klitschko brothers. Romario, at 14 years old, stood over 6ft tall and already had the stature of a pro.

Taking a break from training, Francisco and Romario took the day off to go fishing, a true Sayulita tradition.

The tide was rough and their lancha began to take on some big waves. While reeling in a catch, Francisco fell and injured his back, suffering a slipped disc.

Romario helped him back to land, but unfortunately, Francisco would never be able to recover to train Romario again.

However, they did not give up there. Francisco would solicit the help of now club president Cristobal Rosales Perez, and current trainer Oliver Rosales Gomez, who both had experience with training and forming boxing organizations in Nayarit.

They set up a modest gym in Francisco’s back yard and soon began club Pegando Fuerte in the neighborhood of Avestruz.

Not long after the club’s inception, they trained hard and amounted state and municipal selections as well as Romario’s national silver medal.

Romario commented that though their gym is very basic and they do not have the proper equipment, their love for boxing and hard work is what makes them so successful.

The gym, though still very rustic, has a big following and now includes younger children and females. When the club was asked whether Romario’s loss was disheartening, they replied, “disheartening? That is one amazing start!” Romario then commented, “We’ll take a few days to relax, enjoy our accomplishments, and do some fishing; but we will be back training harder than ever this Monday!”

More than a boxing club, this is a family and a community thatbrings Sayulita’s youth together for healthy exercise, knowledge, and friendship. Club Pegando Fuerte is an inspiring and enjoyable group of individuals; we were truly touched here at El Sayulero. If you are interested in helping them purchase equipment in order to ditch the duct-taped bags and old tires, please contact us at riley@ sayulitalife.com Originally published on elsayulero.com

P

uerto Vallarta and the region enjoy a reputation both nationally and internationally, as a gastronomic destination. Restaurants of all types of regional and world cuisines abound and make it obvious to those of us who live here that we are, indeed, lucky. So it may come as a surprise that up until recently, there was no group, association or organization to represent and aid the restaurants of the Riviera Nayarit. Across the Rio Ameca in Puerto Vallarta (Jalisco) is a chapter of CANIRAC (Cámara Nacional de la Industria de Restaurantes y Alimentos / National Chamber of the Food & Restaurant Industry) for the benefit of PV’s restaurateurs.

This May, a group of dedicated restaurant owners, managers and principles began to meet with the goal of forming a group for the Riviera Nayarit and specifically the region spanning from the Rio Ameca (Jarretaderas/Nuevo Vallarta) as far north as Lo de Marcos, which is also the area of the Bahia de Banderas municipality. Thus, has been born the Asociación Restaurantera de Riviera Nayarit.

The purpose and goals of this group are numerous. Imagine having to struggle alone to discern the varying and numerous codes, laws and permits necessary to operate a restaurant, having to handle employee issues as diverse as transportation to and from work, safety and benefits. Imagine having to promote your restaurant without any backing or support. Now imagine having an association that can organize and make available the resources to address these very concerns. The Asociación Restaurantera de Riviera Nayarit is in the formative stages, just now meeting with a local Notario, of establishing a legal entity in order to be able to work within the guidelines of the local municipality and state government to effectively promote the region, events and the restaurants of the Riviera Nayarit. Restaurants that have participated in meetings and support to date include Aduato’s, Black Forest, Café des Artistes del Mar, El Chivero, Falconi Pizza, Frascati, Grupo Marival (Ikuai & Nicksan), Mar y Sol, Oso’s, Raixes (Puerto Bahia), Restaurant Miguel Angel, Sandrina’s, Sandzibar, Tino’s and Yaya’s Café.

INSIDE LA CRUZ sees the establishment of this association as a win/win for the people of the Riviera Nayarit as well as the restaurants. By providing the restaurants a “Chamber of Commerce” style of resource, better organization and improved promotions will ultimately provide a target regional destination which can only benefit ALL commerce in the area. As the Riviera Nayarit prospers, so prosper its inhabitants.

Every restaurant in Riviera Nayarit is invited to join this association. At present, there is no membership fee and members are encouraged to use the Facebook page to promote their daily specials. A comprehensive website is under construction. Additionally, there is a “members-only” Facebook page that provides updates on group activities and minutes of the weekly meetings which currently are held on Thursday mornings at different host restaurants.

Originally published on www.insidelacruz.com

EVENTS

Friday Aug 16 - 22 , 2013

HealthCare Events Hot Topic Mondays

18

www.vallartatribune.com

DANCING IN THE RAIN FESTIVAL

All are no charge events Time: 10:00 am Location: Hospital Amerimed (across from Plaza Marina). Take the elevator to the 3rd floor. After you exit the elevator, veer to your right and you will see a large lobby. Go to the far end of the lobby and the meeting room is located behind the reception area.

Due to limited seating, RSVP is mandatory. pamela@healthcareresourcespv.com Phone 322 107-7007

From August 15-17th a new festival that celebrates the summer rains that bring so much life to Banderas Bay. The Bailando Bajo la Lluvia (Dancing in the Rain) Festival will bring together local restaurants, hotels, artists and more celebrating the life giving rains. A fantastic ‘Dancing in the Rain’ party, with DJ music, dancing, batucada, raffles, games, and lights will close the new Festival at Los Arcos del Malecon and the Main Plaza in downtown Puerto Vallarta.

August 19, 2013 “Mexican Insurance – What the Heck Is This Policy in Spanish?!”

Roberto Castellaños – Mariner’s Insurance Do you have a Mexican Insurance policy? If so, this talk is for you! Or perhaps you are looking for a policy. Mexican policies are even more confusing to understand than International policies! Learn how Mexican policies work – and options!

Friday, August 16

August 26, 2013 “Your Gut!” Dr. Armando Joya – Gastroenterologist/Gastric Surgeon Do I really need a colonoscopy? If so, why? Are anti-parasite meds ok to use? I have H-Pilori – why won’t it go away? These questions and many more will be covered – learn how your gut works and how to deal with “local parasites”.

Saturday, August 17

10:00 am: Free boat rides on the canals of Estero del Salado, led by the biologists who care for Puerto Vallarta’s only urban natural protected area. Before the ride begins, you’ll enjoy a presentation on the value of the rain for this city.

7:00 pm: Inauguration of Julien Levau’s rain, thunder and lightning photo exhibit, followed by rain-themed poetry readings by members of the Inkwell workshop, and musical guest Everardo Camacho at the Naval Museum on the Malecón.

10:00 am: Free boat rides on the Estero del Salado continue.

7:00 pm: Prepa Batucada along the Malecón 8:00 pm: José Manuel Fernández presenting his song to Puerto Vallarta, and the well-known and acclaimed México en La Piel on the Malecón.

8:30 pm: A fantastic ‘Dancing in the Rain’ party, with DJ music, dancing, Batucada, raffles, games, and lots of fun will close the Bailando Bajo la Lluvia Festival with a flourish at Los Arcos del Malecón and Main Plaza in downtown Puerto Vallarta.

Throughout the three day festival, many of the city’s hotels and restaurants are participating in a “rain of promotions” with attractive offers for both locals and visitors.

Non-Profit and Charitable Organizations For visitors to Puerto Vallarta who wish to do a good deed for 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.

Acción En La Cruz: aid financially burdened residents of la Cruz de Huanacaxtle by providing provisions to their families in exchange for community services performed. Originally called Work for Food, is funded through private contributions and is administered by the FUNDACIÓN PUNTA DE MITA, A.C. http://landon5120.wix. com/accionenlacruz American Legion Post 14: Contributes through fund raising resources and manpower to improve Day Cares, Senior Homes, Schools for the Disabled and Deaf, Public Schools in rural areas and other private institutions needing building maintenance www.americanlegion14.org Asilo San Juan Diego Home for the elderly - Contact: Lupita Sanchez Covarrubias 222-1257 or malupita88@hotmail.com or www.mexonline.com\asilosanjuandiego.htm

Asociación Down - The Foundation for assistance to persons with Down’s Syndrome – Contact: Ana Catalina Eisenring at 224-9577.

Banderas Bay Women’s Shelter - Safe shelter for women & children victims of domestic violence.

Enables women to become financially independent through jobs, education and non-interest micro loans, professional counseling for them & their children. www. compassionforthefamily.org Becas Vallarta, A.C. – Provides scholarships to approximately 300 high school and university students. Donations are tax-deductible in Mexico and the USA. Polly Vicars at (322) 223-1371 or Buri Gray at (322) 221-5285. www. puerto-vallarta.com/amf Bucerias Bilingual Community Center support Local families in Bucerias. 16 de Septiembre at calle Matamoros www.buceriasbilingualcommunitycenter.org Casa Hogar - A shelter dedicated to improving the lives of orphaned, abandoned, disadvantaged or vulnerable children.- Contact: Luz Aurora Arredondo at 221-1908, Rita Millan (322) 141-6974. casamaximocornejo@gmail.com

Centro Comunitario SETACGLBT - Provides essential services to the GLBT community, including physical & mental health treatment and referrals, education & recreation, free AA meetings, English classes, HIV testing and counseling. Paco Arjona 224-1974 or paco@setac.com.mx 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 for cats and dogs in Old Town, Puerto Vallarta. Only open Sundays, arrive by 8am, no reservations are taken. Located at 491 Venustiano Carranza Contact: cez@rogers.com or 322-104-6609 CompassionNet Impact - Strategic partnerships & programs that provide for people living in chronic poverty to transform their own lives. Bookmobile, homes, jobs creation, loans, English & computer classes, emergency food, medicine & clothing, etc.

Tax-deductible in Canada & the U.S. Cell: (322) 133-7263. ric@ 4compassion.org 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 Desarrollo Integral de la Familia (DIF) A municipal service, part of the federal System of Family Services that assists not only in times of emergency, but also with ongoing education, health, and training programs for the whole family. Contact City Hall 222-0058 Desayunos para los Niños de Vallarta A.C. Feeding programs, education programs, day care centers for single mothers Candelaria 143 Col. Barrio Santa María Phone: 22 343 11 or 22 225 72 www.facebook.com/ desayunosninosvallarta Discapacitados de Vallarta, A.C. (DIVAC) association of handicapped individuals dedicated to helping one another. - Contact: Ivan Applegate at 221-5153.

Families At The Dump, Supporting the families living in the landfill or garbage dump in Puerto Vallarta thru eduation and sustainable opportunities. FAD is tax deductible in Canada, USA & Mexico. www.familiesatthedump. org info@familiesatthedump.org or 297-7425

Grupo Ecológico de Puerto Vallarta, Contact: Arq. Luz del Carmen Pérez Alvarez cayro_13@ hotmail.com www.grupoecologico.com Horizonte de Paz: Offers a safe, gay-friendly healing shelter for men of all ages who are troubled with alcohol & drug addiction. Need non-perishable foods, clothing, shoes, school & art supplies, gym equipment. Contact Donato Schimizzi: 322 199 9523 or Roberto: 281 0644 dschimizzi@yahoo.com La Brigada de la Basura A weekly meeting of neighborhood children to clean Vallarta Streets.

Contact Que?Pasa 223-4006 Navy League - Meets and greets visiting Naval vessels from all nations, assists in the transportation of donated medical supplies from the U.S., organizes work groups to paint and repair schools and other public/charitable facilities, and operates the local Toys for Tots program. Contacts: Bill Clark at 222 3616 or Jerry Lafferty at 221 6156. www.vallartanavyleague.org.

New Life Mexico - A British Charity working in Mexico.

Challenging Child Poverty with Health and Education

EVENTS

Friday Aug 16 - 22 , 2013

MEXICAN LOTERIA!!

Fundraising Event for PuRR Project Wednesday, August 21 at 5:00 p.m.

Have fun playing Loteria, the Mexican version of bingo, win prizes—and improve your Spanish all at the same time.

Join us in air-conditioned comfort at Los Alcatraces Restaurant (behind Costco) at 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 21, and play for great prizes (restaurant and Starbucks gift certificates, bottles of adult beverages, haircut/

massage gift certificates) — and a 50/50 raffle. Our loteria caller will be Elizabeth Ensor, one of the founding partners of ACT II Entertainment, Vallarta’s newest theatrical entertainment company.

Elizabeth will share info about ACT II’s exciting upcoming theatre season.

Proceeds benefit the 120+ cats residing at PuRR Project,no-kill feline sanctuary north of Vallarta.

Donations 501(c)(3) tax-deductible in the U.S.

PV CLEBRATES WORLD TOURISM DAY

A three day special event at City Hall to celebrate World Tourism Day will be held from September 25 - 27th. A display of paintings from Vallarta´s art galleries, including Galeria Vallarta will take place in the courtyard of the City Hall located in the heart of Vallarta on the main plaza. Music, Salsa dancing, & more with selections of gourmet food from the top restaurants on Sept. 27th. Stay tuned for more details.

Programmes. Contact Philippa.

Vernon pvp@newlifemexico.com.

Paraíso Felino AC Refuge and Adoption Centre for cats and kittens in the Bay of Banderas. Luis Donaldo Colosio #5 La Esperanza San Juan De Abajo, Nayarit Cel. (322) 120-4092 Pasitos de Luz (Mamas Unidas por la Rehabilitación de sus Hijos) - substitute home for low income children with any type of handicap, offers rehabilitation services and special support to their families.

299-4146. www.pasitosdeluz.org Pro Biblioteca de Vallarta Raises funds for Los Mangos Public Library. Tax-deductible receipts for Mexico and USA. Contacts: Ricardo Murrieta at 224-9966 or Jimmie Ellis at 222-1478.

Proyecto Pitillal, “Busca un Amigo” - Association created by underprivileged mothers of paralyzed children who need society’s help. Contact: 299-4495.

Puerto Vallarta Garden Club: Beautify and protecting the environment. Open to all. Mtgs held at Paradise Community Center, third Thursday every month at 11am from October to May. www.vallartagardenclub.com

PuRR Project - A no-kill cat shelter with approx. 250 resident felines living in a natural environment, un-caged, kittens in the Kitten Nursery, on-site clinic with daily veterinarian services. www.purrproject.com Refugio Infantil Santa Esperanza- Shelter for Children.

Donations are tax-deductible in Canada and the U.S. Contact: Madre Mari at 222-7857 or Sudy Coy at 222-5765. www.ccshf.ca Roma’s Kids - Educate the children of the Volcanes and surrounding area, to provide them with the skills necessary to become employable by the major industry here in Puerto Vallarta – tourism: Math, English and computer programs a priority. 100% goes to the kids. www.kids.romamexico.com The International Friendship Club (IFC) - A registered charitable organization in Mexico listed as Club Internacional de la Amistad de Puerto Vallarta A.C. The IFC supports the Cleft Palate Surgery Program & families in need. Funds are raised through Membership & Home Tours. 322-222-5466. www.ifcvallarta. com. ifcvallarta@gmail.com.

19

LIVE MUSIC VENUES Please be sure to contact the venue to confirm all events.

La Bodeguita Del Medio Paseo Diaz Ordaz 858, Malecon” 322.223.1583 Tues-Sun 9:30 2:00 am El Jardin del Pulpo Coral 66, La Cruz de Huanacaxtle” 329.295.5071 10:30 am 12.30 pm La Palapa Pulpito#103, Playa los Muertos” 322.222.5225 Mon-Sun 8:00am 1:00pm Benito’s Paninoteca Bar Nima Bay, Local 12, “Marina Vallarta” 322.209.0287

El Patio de mi Casa Guerrero 311 esq.

Matamoros 322.222.0743 Encore Lazaro Cardenas51, Bucerias

Toys for Tots Vallarta - Is a non-profit organization that is celebrating 15 years in Puerto Vallarta.

Distributes toys and constructs playgrounds for less-advantaged kids in the Puerto Vallarta area during the Christmas holiday period. Contact: Jerry Lafferty 322 221 6156 or Lourdes Bizarro lourdes.bizarro@marriotthotels. com.

SPCA PV – Provides private vet costs for rescued animals, volun-

329.298.0140 Wed-Mon 9:00 am 10:00 pm India Gate Allende 124 Centro 322.223.2424 Mon-Sat 3:00 pm 11:00 pm The River Café Isla del Rio Cuale Local4 Centro 322.223.0788

Vitea Libertad Edificio Malecon 2, Centro” 322.222.8703 El Rio BBQ Bar Felipe Angeles 245 Col Paso Ancho 322.184.1200 Tue-Sun 11:00 am 7:00pm Las Adelitas Av. Fluvial Vallarta 234 322.293.7778 Beboteros Diaz Ordaz 565 Malecon 322.113.0099

teers to create & maintain a data base of adoptions, to walk dogs at the foster home, Casita de Guadalupe, foster homes for dogs & cats, trap & release program for feral cats, etc. www.spcapv.com Un MañanaBrillante (A Brighter Tomorrow) - Partnership of Americans and Canadians to support the ColegioMexicoAmericano. Contact: Margi Baughman mach1@prodigy.net.mx or David Bender dbender@prodigy.net.mx

www.vallartatribune.com

Café Roma Encino 287 Centro Mon-Sun 10:pm -3:00 am Murphy’s Irish Pub Morelos 484 Altos 1, Centro 322.113.0373 Philo’s Delfin15, La Cruz de Huanacaxle”329.295.5068 Thu-Sat 8:30 pm Barcelona Tapas Matamoros esq 31 de Octubre Centro 322.223.0831

El Dorado Pulpito # 102, Playa los Muertos”322.222.4124

Que? Pasa Aquiles Serdan 625, Col Emiliano Zapata 322.223.4006 Trio Guerrero 264 Centro 322.222.2196 Mon-Sat 7:30 pm

Vallarta Botanical Gardens - To build Mexico’s greatest botanical, research & education of plant life, city beautification programs, bird watching, etc. Donations to the Vallarta Botanical Gardens are tax deductible in the USA. Contact: 223-6182 or info@vallartabotanicalgardensac.org.

TRAVEL SPORTS

Friday Aug 16 - 22 , 2013

20

Canelo y Mayweather

By Joel Hansen n one month Canelo Alvarez will be standing across from Floyd Mayweather at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, in front of a delirious crowd, the hopes of millions of Mexican fans (and at least this Canadian) on his 23-year-old shoulders.

Mayweather has seen it all before, has heard dozens of upstarts like Alvarez saying things like “I’m different. What’s happened in the past won’t happen to me. I’m willing to do anything to win,” that he will be the one to end Mayweather’s perfect record of 44 wins.

Alvarez seems convinced that he can be the one to taint the record of the man widely considered to be one of the top 5-6 boxers of all time.

We can’t forget that Alvarez is also unbeaten, But not all unbeaten records are the same, and when it comes to quality of opposition, Mayweather has a fought the best, (well minus the constant ducking of Manny Pacquiao) and he has beaten Oscar De La Hoya, Diego Corrales, Jose Luis Castillo, Juan Manuel Marquez, Shane Mosley, Miguel Cotto, Jesus Chavez, Carlos Hernandez and Robert Guerrero, among many others.

When you look at the caliber of who Alverez has fought its closer

I

to the who’s who of Guadalajara taxi drivers, not exactly the greats of the boxing ring. But Alvarez sincerely believes he’s in the right place at the right time, much as a 21-year-old Mayweather was in 1998 when he faced the great Genaro Hernandez for his first world title. He’s studied Mayweather for years, and he believes he knows what he is in for, Alvarez said he’s working on what he needs to do to win, and is not allowing the hype, Mayweather’s taunts or anything that isn’t productive to creep into his circle.

“I’m a strong-minded fighter,” Alvarez says in such a way that you get he believes it to his core.

“I’m not going to fight the fight he wants me to do. I will fight the fight I need to fight to win.”

In my opinion this fight might be a little early in Canelo’s career, but he is saying all the right things and staying focused on the right things, he has been counseled by many of the great Mexican fighters and I believe he will prove more than a handful for Mayweather.

In a cruel twist of fate I will not be watching this fight with the millions of cheering Mexicans, but I will be back in Canada rooting for the hero of my adopted country.

Be sure to head down to Los Muertos brewpub for all the action.

www.vallartatribune.com

BRAIN TEASERS 21

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SUDOKU easy

Friday Aug 16 - 22 , 2013

Challenge your brain! Sudoku is easy to play and the rules are simple. Fill in the blanks so that each row, each column, and each of the nine 3x3 grids contain only one of each of the numbers 1 through 9.

medium

HUB-WORDS How many words can you make from the letters in the wheel?

Each word must contain the hub letter I. Can you find a 9-letter word and at least 20 other words of five letters or more avoiding proper nouns?

EDUCATION Some other words of five letters or more containing the hub letter I: actin, adieu, antic, audio, audit, canid, cited, coati, cutie, dicot, dicta, edict, indue, nicad, tenia, tonic, tunic, unite, untie, action, atonic, auntie, coined, detain, induce, induct, notice, united, untied, aconite, auction, caution, conduit, noctuid, noticed How many words can you make from the letters in the wheel?

Each word must contain the hub letter A. Can you find a 9-letter word and at least 20 other words of five letters or more avoiding proper nouns?

hard

TRAVEL LIGHT. Can you find the hidden words? They may be horizontal, vertical, diagonal, forwards or backwards. AIRBED, BACKPACK, BATTERIES, BINOCULARS, CAMPFIRE, CAN OPENER, CANVAS, COMPASS, FIRELIGHTER, FIRST AID KIT, FLASK, FOOD, FUEL, GRIDDLE, GROUNDSHEET, HIKING BOOTS, KINDLING, LANTERN, MAPS, MOSQUITO NET, PANS, PEDOMETER, POTS, ROPE, STOVE, TENT, TINDER, TOOLS, TORCH, WATER.

IMPARTIAL Some other words of five letters or more containing the hub letter A: alarm, altar,apart, atria, atrip, maria, matai, plait, prima, raita, riata, tiara, tapir, tiara, trail, tramp, trial, armpit, impair, impala, impart, lariat, primal, air-mail, marital, martial, partial.

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SPCA de PV ADORABLE DOG IN THE SPOTLIGHT...

Friday Aug 16 - 22 , 2013

KEY DISTRIBUTION POINTS

You should be able to find the paper at these locations. If you’ve missed this week’s paper you can always download the current copy at vallartatribune.com e o n li n h us C a tc

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Hotel Zone Villa del Palmar - Vallarta Starbucks – Peninsula

What a good dog, Rio! He is just the sweetest two year old. And, oh so much prettier now than when he first came to us. Rio was deserted by his owner and left to rummage through a neighbor’s trash to get food. After a friend of the SPCA learned of his plight, as well as the neighbor’s plan to have him poisoned, Rio was brought to our Sanctuary. He was loaded with ticks and suffered from a broken front paw which was never set. In the beginning Rio had a few trust issues but he has responded incredibly to all the love and attention he has been getting. He weighs 8 kilos or a little over 17½ pounds.

He gets along great with people and even other dogs. What a cutie!

Please contact us at spcapv@gmail.com.

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Marina Starbucks – Marina RE/MAX Marina Café Cup Casa Velas

VALLARTA May 23, 2013829 June 7 - 17 13,-TRIBUNE 2013

Feb 25 - March 3, 2013 Vallarta Tribune 844841 Vallarta Tribune

The Natural Beauty of OUR Mountain

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Old Town & Centro Paradise Community Centre Freddy Tucan restaurant Los Mercados Timothy Real Estate Pages in the Sun

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Tourist Offices: • Rio Cuale • Main Plaza • Lazaro Cardenas Park American Consulate Canadian Consulate

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Mammals

80

Birds

300

Amphibians and Reptiles

23 23 23

Butterflies

85

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50% of these species are endemic to México.

We propose the area to be designated a

Natural Preserve Because for Vallarta,

Without the Mountain...

There is no future

Nuevo Vallarta Paradise Village La Estancia Vallarta Adventures Starbucks – Paradise Village

Bucerias DeCameron Resort Elements Realty Yo-Yo Mo’s Sports Bar La Cruz de Huanacaxtle Oso’s Restaurant Philos Realty Ikuai Restaurant

www.vallartatribune.com

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Friday Aug 16 - 22 , 2013

ONLY PAPER AVAILABLE IN THE PUERTO VALLARTA AIRPORT REACH MORE LOCALS AND TOURISTS ASK ABOUT SUMMER SPECIALS dora@tribunadelabahia.com.mx

Francisco I Madero # 202, corner Pino Suarez, Emiliano Zapata Olas Altas Reservations 222 6593 www.latiavallarta.com e-mail latiavallarta@hotmail.com

DANCING IN THE RAIN FEST 3 Course menu, with three options to choose, $299 pesos August 15 -18, 2013

TIZOC COMIDA MEXICANA

Authentic Mexican Food!

Seafood & Steaks Mention this ad for ONE GUACAMOLE per table with dinner

Olas Altas 474 , Romantic Zone Reservations 222 8382