Issue 859, Sept. 20 - 26, 2013

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PARADISE AND PARENTING

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Housebound

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Spa Boom

From a-z we have it all

Sept 20 - 26, 2013 Free Issue 859

17

Bucerias

BEACHES AND MORE

Welcome

Friday Sept 20 - 26, 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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ding event schedules, locations and/or prices.

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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

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This free Publication is brought to you with the financial support of our advertisers. Without them, we would not be 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.

Maximilians Chasers Christ Church By The Sea Cinemex Galerias y Macroplaza Isima Re/max Marina Restaurant Que Pasa Teatro Vallarta

!

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.

AS

PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS Fernando Gonzalez Corona

Calling in Mexico

AC I

COVER PHOTO CLOUDS VALLARTA BUD ELISON

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.

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

Editorial

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Mexi-Go! Expo promotes Vallarta – Nayarit This past weekend I was in Vancouver, BC hosting the MexiGo! Expo. Over two days we saw well over 1000 people through our doors interested in all things Mexico. Exhibitors from across Mexico, including Puerto Vallarta and Nayarit, eagerly welcomed the public in with lots of great information on travel, retirement, investment, real estate, cuisine, art, music and spirits with a very popular Tequila and Mezcal tasting. Seminars were held both days that discussed various destinations for travel

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

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Friday Sept 20 - 26, 2013

In the Know

and property purchasing, doing business in Mexico, planning for retirement, cooking and a 1.5 hour long Tequila tasting presentation. Nearly every seminar was at capacity, with the cooking demonstration standing room only. Admission to the Expo was through donations and when I return to Puerto Vallarta we will be making a donation to Pasitos de Luz. All in all it was a wonderful two days in a gorgeous building in the heart of Yaletown. The weather was beautiful but not too beautiful to keep people outdoors.

Back home in Puerto Vallarta we suffered through some extremely wet conditions, so I hear and see on my Facebook. Puerto

Vallarta seems to have come out the other side of this ‘once in a lifetime’ weather catastrophe relatively unscathed but that is not the case for many of our neighbours.

There is a huge need for financial donations to the Cruz Rojo immediately. On page 4 we have information on where your contributions can be sent. An estimated 1.2 million people were displaced in Mexico as a result of the tropical storms Ingrid and Manuel. Please consider donating whatever you can, as every little bit helps.

In this issue we have published a three to four day road trip through the back roads of Jalisco that I am excited to do in the coming weeks, after the rains subside. In the meantime, I think I will head to Bucerias when I return for some much needed rest and relaxation.

The beach there is a perfect spot to make camp for the day and includes the handy convenience of promptly delivered margaritas.

Please don’t miss the Saturday Market in Old Town from 9am – 1pm at the Paradise Community Centre. If you have comments, good or bad, please don’t hesitate to send them my way.

(Editor(at)Vallartatribune.com) See you on beach, Madeline

My seven things to do involve leaving Puerto Vallarta for the day and traveling 30 minutes north to the coastal town of San Francisco (known as San Pancho to locals).

The Pueblo is quaint and the beach is pristine. Here are the seven things I enjoy most in this wonderful secret location.

1. Coffee: I love a good morning coffee and my favorite spot in San Pancho is Café Paraiso 2. Breakfast: After coffee I enjoy a delicious breakfast at Maria’s 3.Dominos: The San Pancho beach is just the right size. I can see it from one end to the other, but… it gets my pulse going to walk the distance. While watching the waves and birds I play a fun game of Mexican Dominos with my friends at Las Palmas restaurant.

4. Latte: When it is time for a walk, my friends and I venture down the street to Café Arte for a latte and sweet dessert.

5. Dinner: There are a number of places to enjoy dinner with a

full range of prices. For a special evening we imbibe at La Ola Rica Restaurant and Bar 6. To walk off dinner we saunter to the town square where quite often there is live music.

7. Karaoke: When the nights are warm, we stay up late and sing along at the Karaoke bar next to the malecón.

William Michael Born in Denver, Co., William Michael has called the Puerto Vallarta area home for more than eight years. William enjoys walking beaches and volunteering with Becas Vallarta/America-Mexico Foundation , dedicated to assisting students achieve higher education. “I like to make dreams come true,” says William Michael, “whether it’s an individual or company I enjoy the challenge of creating a Win Win situation!”

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 neighbourhood 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.

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 Pozole 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 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.

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

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.

A local weekly guide to places, people and things

William Michael

Free calendar listings in the Vallarta Tribune

LOCAL

Friday Sept 20 - 26, 2013

Ingrid & Manuel Wreck Havoc

By Luis Melgoza

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ther than much needed rain, Puerto Vallarta was spared by the damage inflicted on two-thirds of Mexico’s territory by Ingrid and Manuel. This unprecedented impact caused from moderate to extremely serious damage in all Mexican states, except three. Several states have declared emergency and one, Guerrero, extraordinary emergency. Forty deaths and

more than 1.2 million children, women and men are displaced, many localities in the country are unreachable by land, some can’t be reached even by air at this time. Countless rivers and twenty-one dams have overflowed, eight more dams are reaching capacity. Power and telephone are down in countless localities.

Roads have been washed out or covered by landslides, bridges and tunnels have collapsed making it difficult for Army, Navy

and Red Cross rescuers to get to those isolated by the disaster.

For those driving to Laredo, TX, roads in San Luis Potosi and Tamaulipas, between PV and Laredo, suffered serious damage.

It may be impossible to make it to the border that way.

ACAPULCO FACES HUGE CLEAN-UP

Acapulco is a special case.

Its international airport is flooded and closed to air-traffic, all roads to and from that port are also closed, making the situation in Acapulco worse than in other areas of the country because more than 50,000 tourists --who visited Acapulco for the four-day weekend-- are stranded there, the city simply doesn’t have enough food or medication supplies after the long weekend leading into the slowest weeks of the year for Mexican tourist destinations.

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Erica Fuentes’ and Annemarie Stonewater’s Unholy Trinity

by Casablanca Publishing Casablanca Publishing, today released Unholy Trinity, the longawaited second novel in the Salve Regina saga by acclaimed writers Erica Fuentes and Annemarie Stonewater.

Loosely based on intriguing actual events, Unholy Trinity is a terrifying and spellbinding tale that affirms the predominance of true power ever prevailing over the overt corruption and vying struggle between the powers of Church and State, but only after many unexpected twists and turns into realms that shake the characters’ veritable core of truth and faith.

Both celebrated novelists are full-time residents of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

Unholy Trinity is Fuentes’ twelfth novel and Stonewater’s fifth, and the second co-written by

both of them.

Unholy Trinity is available at major booksellers world-wide in English and Spanish versions, it is also available in Kindle format at Amazon.

Due to dangerous surf conditions, some popular beaches were closed

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Small Business Listings Starting Sept. 20th Great Prices!

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What does this have to do with you and Puerto Vallarta? I’m glad you asked! The Mexican Red Cross is accepting donations to: Cruz Roja Mexicana account 0404 0404 06 at BBVA Bancomer (Branch 683), you may make a deposit to that account at any Bancomer branch.

To transfer money from other Mexican banks to the Mexican Red Cross’ account in Bancomer, use CLABE:012180004040404062.

For transfers from abroad, this is what your bank needs: Account holder: Cruz Roja Mexicana Account # 0404040406 Bank: BBVA Bancomer Branch: 683 Branch Address:Mexico D.F., Palmas, Plaza Mexico SWIFT/BIC Code:BCMRMXMMPYM Every penny counts. Donations, in any amount, can and will save lives.

Translation by Michelle Mayer ue to atmospheric conditions and recent natural phenomena affecting various regions throughout Mexico, some Puerto Vallarta beaches remained on red alert and were closed to recreational activities. Sergio Ramírez López from Puerto Vallarta’s Civil Protection Department, spoke to the Tribune’s Spanish-language sister paper, La Tribuna, and explained that this ordinance on coastal places was established to diminish possible risk to swimmers and other beach goers.

Ramírez López emphasized that this current measure began this past Monday. Red flags have been positioned in areas

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of beaches deemed high risk, alerting the public of potential dangerous tides. These warnings will continue at least through Wednesday, though they could continue for longer.

To further guard the public’s safety, 15 lifeguards have been positioned in places frequented by swimmers. In more remote beaches away from the city, 3 specialists will be making continual runs monitoring tide and atmospheric conditions, along with checking on public safety.

Among the most frequented beaches are Los Muertos, Camarones and Holly, while some of the ones away from the city include Conchas Chinas, Garza Blanca and Boca de Tomates.

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LOCAL

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Friday Sept 20 - 26, 2013

Wanderings on Olas Altas

Banderas Bay Initiative

By Poncho Davalos

By Minerva Zamora www.bbini.org

American Legion a shining model in community involvement

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ast week, Maria and I had the pleasure of meeting up with Dennis Rike, the Commander of the American Legion post 14 in Banderas Bay. We had previously met Dennis as one of our guests on the radio show El Foco (91.9FM C7 Radio, Mondays at 4:00pm). We loved talking with him about the number of projects the American Legion has going on around the bay.

As we believe part of the difficulties charitable organizations (whether environmental or otherwise) face is the lack of awareness of their projects, (which then leads to lower volunteer involvement and lower funding), I wanted to share some of the American Legion’s successes in Puerto Vallarta.

The American Legion is dedicated to creating a support network for US Veterans at home and abroad. Post 14 of the Banderas Bay, as part of the American Legion’s department of Mexico, works closely with veterans living in the region to make sure they can access

healthcare, consular services, and other benefits. Although the American Legion’s main purpose is “Veterans helping veterans”, they have also created an important presence in the communities in which they reside, forming mentoring programs, volunteering their time and expertise to active community improvement projects, and even funding social change endeavors.

The Banderas Bay post has been no exception.

In the past couple of years, the American Legion has tapped into and helped create a network of community activism to be reckoned with. To complete their projects they have worked alongside Navy League, Piratas M.C. (Harley Davidson Riders), His Will His Way ministry, Kelly Trainor-Consular Agent of Puerto Vallarta, and the DIF (Family Integral Development-a Mexican government agency), as well as many other good-willed individuals and businesses of the region.

Through their donation of expertise and manpower, and the generous funding of the Jay-Sadler Project, and other charitable donors, the American Legion and its partners have rehabilitated many of the spaces

WANT THE NEWS IN PUERTO VALLARTA?

meant to support very special parts of our society.

They have fixed playgrounds in San Vicente and Guamuchil, used their electrical and plumbing expertise to restore water to the bathrooms and improve the bathroom and kitchen facilities at a Junior Highschool in Boca de Tomatlán, and successfully fundraised for Busca un Amigo Pitillal. They are currently helping to re-tile the roof at the Santa Barbara Rehabilitation Clinic, establishing a maintenance program for a playground in Aurora, assisting in setting up additional classrooms at the School for the deaf in San Vicente del Mar, and aiding in raising the wall and installing a sidewalk at Busca un Amigo Pitillal.

The voting members of the American Legion are exclusively US veterans, however, they welcome veterans of any country, as well as civilians to join as associate members and join their community service projects. If you would like to become involved with any of these worthwhile initiatives, I invite you to explore their website (www.americanlegion14. org) or join them during their open meetings at Steve’s Bar on Basilio Badillo on the 3rd Tuesday of every month.

Proud to be Mexican

By Pancho Davalos he first memory I have celebrating Dia de la Independencia was when I was eight years old. I remember my mom took me to the main plaza in Monterrey to enjoy the festivities and I was so proud to be Mexican.

As you know last week we celebrated our 203rd anniversary of Mexican independence, being a Mexican sometimes we take this celebration for granted.

But one thing I discover from my foreign friends (from Canada or the States) it’s a really great party.

They’re very happy to live here in Mexico, enjoying the mariachi bands, tasting guacamole, salsa, sometimes tequila, appreciating the culture, food and sharing pride in what is Mexico.

My friend and I had the opportunity to be on the malecón last Sunday, he is not Mexican and this was his first time in this celebration.

I can say it was an amazing experience to share with him.

Mexican tradition has the the Grito de Independencia performed at 11:00 pm and the sitting president exclaims “Viva Mexico!” and calls out the names of the national heroes who gave us independence. my friend and I really

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enjoyed the fireworks show and we had the perfect excuse to eat Mexican dishes (again).

A highlight attraction for us was the stage erected in the middle of the malecón with rousing mariachi music.

A lady was performing incredibly with a lot of soul, dressed in her traditional dress full of colors.

It was great to hear the songs you always hear in weddings or in a quincenera.

My friend was amazed about how we celebrate; all of his previous experiences had taken place with him watching through a television screen My friend is back home now unfortunately, but I know that he choose the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta.

I’m am thrilled because I showed him that Mexico is more than tacos and tequila, is a country full of traditions, colors, heritage and proud country. It doesn’t matter what happens, we always celebrate.

Hey guys! For more information 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.

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LOCAL

Friday Sept 20 - 26, 2013

By Sue Keevil pvseadive.com

By Marcia Blondin marciavallarta@gmail.com

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Benita - our baby bootie/sandal girl - has been creating lovely faux suede handbags with extra wide straps that won’t bite into your shoulder. And they are big with an adjustable strap to help keep your balance when you are loaded down. They come in many colors, are soft and very sexy indeed.

And big. I LOVE that!

Jorge, our silver maestro, has come up with a stunning sterling silver ring with matching earrings. And I mean “matching” - the ring is set with a sparkling garnet baguette that is an inch long! The pure silver earrings are exactly the same size and shape. The color of the stones is brilliantly red; far more clear ruby than traditional garnet red. All of Jorge’s designs are beautiful but this particular trio caught my eye. Check them out fast - at the price he is charging they won’t be around long.

Smokin’ Meats Mark is now making mini sandwiches - a super inexpensive way to try two or three of his meats and cheeses along with yummy condiments before you buy.

Great “little bites” Mark!

There are new honeys (including Sage!) at the Market (yes, the bee kind...) and delicate crocheted earrings all light as feathers and come in many bright colors.

The Artisan Bakery has come out with a huge sourdough/garlic/ cheese loaf. Buy one and call it LUNCH! A couple of weeks ago a gentleman came into our Market and happened upon our Enrique’s photographs and watercolors and not only liked what he saw but had clients in his design business who would buy it! ALL of it! So a price was settled upon, business cards and cell phone numbers were exchanged and Enrique appeared at the man’s condo as requested on time the next day bringing with him his entire stock as it had appeared the day before at Market.

The man wasn’t there. He left minutes before the scheduled meeting according to the building’s concierge. Written messages, emails and phone calls were not responded to.

At first all of us at Market were so happy at Enrique’s great fortune - it is in the center of every artist’s heart, soul and brain that someday, some one will come up and say “I will take EVERYTHING!”. The dream does come true - rarely - but it does come true. A week passed and as the dream slipped further away it left an artist - his name is Enrique - bereft.

Of course it is not the end of the world, it’s happened before and no doubt, it will happen again. Next time you are out shopping and are really happy just browsing and poking around, just say so. The “I’ll be back in five minutes”...”I have to go to the ATM, hold that for me would you?”...”I promise I’ll be back next week for sure”, etc., etc., are all ways to extricate yourself politely but really, unnecessary. Just say, “No thanks”.

See all of you on Saturday and do come hungry!

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PV Sea Dive

This is Paradise...

e are more than half way through September which means we are less than a month away from the end of rainy season. Not that rain has ever interrupted the Saturday Co-op Market; we are blessed with the best location of any marketplace in the Bay of Banderas. We open at 9 am every Saturday of the year at the Paradise Community Center, across the street (Calle Pulpito) from Coco’s Kitchen.

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Headline Grabbers

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here is nothing like a shark attach for grabbing the world’s attention and creating sensational headlines. This only reaffirms people’s fears of sharks by giving them a bad name.

I am not saying that the attacks shouldn’t be reported, but maybe they should be put into context.

Shark attacks undoubtedly sell newspapers, as do scuba diving accidents, while fatal car accidents rarely get national coverage, let alone global. So, I have done a bit of research and have found some figures that will amaze you and hopefully quash any fear of going into the ocean. A 423 year long survey took place from 1580-2003 citing 1,909 fatal shark attacks in total. That gives us a 1 in 11.5 million chance of making the headlines. In the US, over the same period, 38 fatal shark attacks occurred, giving you a 1 in 260 million chance of 5 minutes

of fame. If I told you 150 people worldwide per year (on average) die from a coconut falling on their heads, then that kind of makes the sharks the good guys.

Shark attacks have increased over the past few decades. Why? Well, 50 years ago, people didn’t fly off to far flung places in search of golden beaches and crystal clear waters to go snorkelling, diving, surfing etc., but it’s something people seek to do on a regular basis now. More people in the water equals more attacks.

The decline in sharks is saddening to see as they are amazing to witness in their natural habitat.

I once jumped into a whirlpool of barracuda to see what would happen, and within minutes, a 2+ metre white tip oceanic reef shark came right through the middle and took off with a nice tasty snack.

This all happened right in front of me and was a real thriller.

Sharks don’t want to eat us, they don’t even like the way we taste.

More often than not, if a shark bites a human, it will spit the bits out. Painful I should imagine, but it will leave a great scar! They only attack us because they think we are sea lions or seals. Sharks are very important for the survival of the ocean environment as they are at the top of the food chain. As a predator to most animals, they provide an ecological balance and biological control of other species.

My advice would be to not wear tuna smelling deodorant, don’t go swimming with a bleeding wound and definitely don’t swim like a seal. However, if you take those precautions and still get attacked, curl up into a tight ball.

That way the shark will take you whole and you won’t painfully bleed to death. Just a thought!

In reality, on the list of potential dangers that can be encountered during aquatic recreation, sharks are right at the bottom of the list.

Now that I have hopefully allayed your fear of sharks, I will let you in on this little secret. We have sharks in the bay! Albeit not very many, but the numbers are increasing as this bay is a healthy eco-system. My friends at the Vallarta Yacht Club brought to my attention a shark they caught inside the bay this week. This is the actual photo, and yes, it is a Great White shark pup! These very responsible fishermen released it as soon as they had photographed it, and I am very excited about the prospect of seeing it one day.

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Paradise and Parenting

By Leza Warkentin rhythm2rain@gmail.com

By Erin Staley oldtownfm.com

The OTFM Hits the Road Once Again on its North American Farmers’ Market Tour

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his week we were off to four of Victoria’s thriving farmers’ markets, the third leg of our North American Farmers’ Market Tour. With pumpkin spice lattes and notebooks in hand, our Old Town Farmers’ Market-Tianguis Cultural (OTFM) team headed for the popular Moss Street Market.

Walking through the entrance was a homecoming of sorts as this long-time market was the inspiration for our OTFM. Its approach to producer-only goods and reviving the local economy has been unrivalled, and we couldn’t wait to see what new and exciting products and events the Market had in store for us this season.

We were greeted with row after row of organic produce and artisan food products. In fact, it didn’t take us long to discover one of the markets newest vendors “DoughBoys” and their apple fritters filled with freshly baked local apples. Despite all the edible fun, it was the twenty-five local, organic farmers who took center stage with rainbow displays of fresh fruits and veggies. They happily

shared their growing process with us, taking pride in the market’s reputation as Victoria’s “true” farmers’ market.

After bidding everyone a fond farewell, we headed off to the Bastion Square Market. Located on Victoria’s scenic waterfront, this market provided the perfect “frame” for the works of fine artists and artisans. As we passed through the ceremonial entry arch, we were greeted by the brilliant colors and textures of fine jewelry, leatherworks, prints and photography. We “oohed and aahed” over an endless assortment of artisanal wares – beer bottle goblets, jean purses and shabby chic mason jars filled tasty jams and chunky salsas. Supporting local creativity was definitely the theme of the day at the Bastion Square Public Market, and we were happy to learn from their innovative painters, photographers, sculptures and craftspeople.

With a wave goodbye to our creative friends, we packed up our treasures and headed for the grand opening of the Hudson Public Market. The newest member of Victoria’s market scene, this farmers’ market was designed to foster the island’s passion for food security. Over 10,000 people came out in support of local farmers and food producers. They were joined by what seemed like an endless assortment of vendors.

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Butchers, bakers and even candlestick makers were putting up chalkboard signs to highlight the specials of the day. Our favorite picks included cookbooks from local authors, Victoria Island seed packets and bottled condiments of mouthwatering mixtures.

Our Victoria adventure came to an end at Peninsula Country Market located in the heart of the surrounding farm land.

Everything centers around the “shop local” movement, and shoppers are delighted to peruse through this organic wonderland.

With juicy strawberries, homemade sausages and Gerber daisies in tow, we made our way home to swap notes on the day’s adventures.

The local flavor and festivities were unforgettable, and each market offered something to share with our OTFM vendors and volunteers. Perhaps the biggest “take away” was the sense of community we experienced in Victoria.

It was similar to that of Puerto Vallarta’s market scene, and we have you to thank for your continued support of local markets, farmers, artisans and restaurants.

Stay tuned as we bring you the latest from the Salt Spring Island Farmers Market and annual fall fair. It’s the next stop on our North American Farmers’ Market Tour, a road-trip adventure designed to learn and share the best of what farmers’ markets have to offer.

Don’t forget to mark your calendars as the Old Town Farmers’ Market-Tianguis Cultural will reopen on Saturday, November second. Located along Basilio Badillo between Olas Altas and Ignacio Vallarta, the Old Town Farmers’ Market-Tianguis Cultural 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.

Housebound, Tropical Style

E

very once in awhile I am struck by the differences in my childhood and that of my own children. I don’t recall being overcome by desperation akin to a teacher (ie: me) going through caffeine withdrawal every time the weather made it impossible to go anywhere.

I imagine this was because, for about half the year, we Canadians (particularly those from the Prairie provinces such as Manitoba) venture outside with the knowledge that we could actually die out there without anyone finding us until spring thaw.

I remember that our family stayed inside a great deal in winter, playing a lot of Parcheesi and sampling the many varieties of instant hot chocolate flavors, biding our time and staying alive.

Mind you, during the other half of the year these same Manitobans would leap frog each other in a bid to be the first outside the moment the sun peeped out from behind a cloud.

We didn’t even try to finish dressing first, yanking our lucky sleeveless maple leaf t-shirts over our heads as we ran to the deck to get the barbeque fired up.

My own children, las patas saladas, are not so closely acquainted with their own mortality and have no particular preference for their Old Navy Canadian Logo tank tops.

They are used to spending as much time inside or outside as they wish and they do not know the anxiety of checking the unreliable forecast for a cold snap before scheduling an outdoor event.

Thanks to Tropical Depression Manuel, we are spending a rare day indoors on this holiday Monday, September 16. Right now it is 11:49am and I can’t reasonably start planning a long,

drawn-out bedtime routine for at least 6 more hours.

The other problem we have is that one of the kids has begun to run a fever, possibly out of spite, and thus we are officially housebound.

I really should get out the Uno and start a tournament, but the sick one is not in the mood to lose and the healthy one is not the type to throw a game just to keep the peace.

I am trying to channel the creativity of my own parents, who were the Indoor Activity Champs due to necessity, but all I’ve managed so far is a read-a-thon, which was quiet but short-lived. How did my prairie ancestors get their children interested in things like quilting bees and cribbage? The wracking of my brain for better ideas that don’t involve sewing is becoming somewhat overwhelming.

Happily, I just now stopped to listen and I hear that lovely sound of rain trapping on my roof. All at once it is rather nice to be cozy and safe and not even sweating at this minute.

I look at my two draped over their father on the bed and realize that they are content listening to a story in Spanish that sounds sort of like Rumpelstiltskin, Latin style. I am writing this article, allowing me the delicious excuse to continue avoiding cleaning the room that I had been leaving for a rainy day such as this one.

The best thing of all is just knowing that Puerto Vallarta has an average of 300 days of sun per year, and that I, therefore, have another sixty-four to clean that room.

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In the Midst of a Spa Boom

Mexico is rumoured to have more spas than any other country, from hole-in-the-walls to the most exclusive resort spas imaginable. You can experience it all in Mexico

By Madeline Milne Originally published in Mexi-Go! Magazine

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very day more travelers leave behind their routines to soak up the warm Mexican sun and escape the stress of big city life. Outpacing this growth are the number of spas opening their doors to meet the demands of visitors seeking alternative solutions to looking and feeling their best. Often voted in the top ten for best spas and resorts in the world, Mexico offers travelers and residents alike a wealth of options, but it is pertinent to remember that not all spas are created equal.

“Due to unprecedented demand for spa treatments of all kinds, we find ourselves in the midst of a spa bubble. North Americans have recently caught on to what other countries have been doing for years, indulging in a two-week vacation to pamper themselves and heal from inside out,” said Paulene McNair, a registered nurse and Toronto native.

But how does one decide on the right spa? And what is the difference between the several types of spas there are to choose from, ranging from a day spa to the medical spa? Spas in Mexico not only offer the typical services of face masks, massages and manicures but also New Age and folklore remedies including aromatherapy and herbal baths,

used by the Mayans, as well as advanced medical services such as bio-cell treatments.

“Health spa is an outdated term.

In response to growing demand, there are now destination spas, resort spas, day spas, holistic spas, wellness spas, medi-spas, and medical spas,” said Sharon Sedgwick, long time spa consultant and current owner of Spa Itza in Playa del Carmen.

“Medi-spas and Medical Spas have licensed physicians to undertake procedures whereas a wellness spa is in the German tradition of spas,” she explained.

There is a very thin line separating the various spas and types of services offered.

“They all offer unique services and receive clients who swear by the treatments. But this is simply to pinpoint a potentially dangerous trend with demands for quality spa treatments – is there a parallel supply of qualified, experienced practitioners to provide these therapies?” McNair inquired.

Needless to say, spa hunters must know about the treatments in which they are interested and recognize who are licensed practitioners capable of providing the correct services.

The other possibility is being duped out of your money or worse, receiving a potentially harmful treatment from an unqualified practitioner.

Spa consumers should take

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more precautions when receiving medical and experimental treatments at spas. Services like botox, intravenous vitamins and bio-cell treatments are more frequently offered in medi-spas or medical spas but could be provided in any type of spa adopting a new and catchy title.

The jargon describing the different types of treatment can be confusing yet denote different levels of care. For example, a cosmetology refers to the use of creams and products such as a hydrating mask to enhance the

exterior beauty of skin.

A cosmeceutical, on the other hand, are medicines that contain active pharmaceutical ingredients (API’s) that should be prescribed by licensed physicians. While the former primarily involves the outer layers of skin, the latter impacts the deeper layers.

There are many therapies and medicines available in Mexico that either have not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration or are not practiced on a widespread basis. One such treatment offered at Mexican spas (for a

much cheaper price than in the United States) is mesotherapy.

This involves micro injections of conventional or homeopathic medicines into the middle layers of the skin to treat a variety of conditions.

Some caveats when undertaking this treatment are to ensure that the physician inform you of all the drugs and medical technology which have been approved by the FDA. Also the practitioner should have proper accreditation. Lastly, you should choose a physician that you feel you can trust.

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Dr. Carlos Baldwin, who practices mesotherapy and bio-cell techniques, explained the new paradigm in patient-physician relations that he practices: “The patient has to commit to you, the doctor, to be a partner in a lifelong project.”

Baldwin, who is a general practitioner, and member of the Mexican Society of Aesthetic Medicine and the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine, stresses the shift in mentality from fix-it to preventative medicine.

Travelers to Mexico can come to relax for a few weeks and enjoy economical spa treatments or even start off a new health trajectory. The important thing is to understand the treatments offered and to trust those offering them.

Resorts & Spas in Mexico

CAPELLA PEDEGRAL (Los Cabos; www.capellacabo. com) and its sister resort Capella Ixtapa, tied for the #1 spa in the 2012 Reader’s Poll of Conde Nast Traveler for Mexico and Central America. Both spas received perfect scores for treatments, staff, and facility categories, repeating their 2011 achievements.

HOTEL IXTAPAN SPA & GOLF RESORT (Ixtapan; www.hotelixtapan. com): In operation since 1939, this classic, traditional spa resort has beautiful grounds, excellent golf and great food. It’s also close to the region’s renowned thermal baths.

MANDARA SPA AT THE ONE & ONLY PALMILLA RESORT (Los Cabos; www.palmilla.

oneandonlyresorts.com) is a 22,000 square foot spa that spans six buildings. It’s nestled in the Baja landscape and offers treatments that combine Mexican, Asian and global healing rituals.

Head here for rejuvenating facials, customized body wraps and deeply relaxing massages.

SPA CIELO (Los Cabos; www.spa-cielo. com) is a true medical spa, that blends art and science to make patients look & feel better than they ever thought possible, using lasers, microdemabrasion, fillers and other non-invasive techniques.

RANCHO LA PUERTA (Baja Norte; www.rancholapuerta.com): One of Mexico’s best-known spas, Rancho La Puerta is a spa-vacation original, having opened its doors in 1940. A steady stream of guests return for the

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constantly expanding facilities, spa services, and outdoor opportunities.

MISIÓN DEL SOL RESORT & SPA (Cuernavaca; www.misiondelsol.com): This may be Mexico’s finest spa resort, with every architectural detail designed to soothe body and pamper your senses from meditation rooms and reflexology showers to magnets under your mattress. This full-service spa, with delicious vegetarian cuisine, is a heavenly base for personal renewal.

PARADISE VILLAGE (Nuevo Vallarta; www.paradisevillage.com): Actively promoting the beneficial properties of indigenous Mexican spa therapies and natural treatments in an affordable but professional spa make this one of the top all-around spas in Mexico, plus there’s golf for the non-spa enthusiast.

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Friday Sept 20 - 26, 2013

restaurant.

LE MÉRIDIEN CANCÚN RESORT & SPA (Cancún; www.meridiencancun.com.mx): The Spa del Mar is a state-of-the-art, 1,400-sq.-m (15,069-sq.-ft.) facility bordering the brilliant Caribbean. It has the most complete spa in the area, with inhalation rooms, saunas, Jacuzzis, cold plunges, Swiss showers, a cascading waterfall whirlpool, and fourteen treatment rooms.

THE TIDES RIVIERA MAYA (north of Playa del Carmen; www.tidesr ivieramaya.com): Private, this small, secluded resort offers extraordinary personal service -- some villas come with a butler on call -- and spa treatments. Rooms are spread throughout the jungle, and there’s a beautiful seaside pool and

Life In The Sun

By Kristina Hewlett and Dr. Steven Gordon Whether you are enjoying the summer sun at home or investing in year-round sunshine in a tropical paradise, here are a few truths about sun protection and a few tips to keep your skin healthy: “I use sunscreen every morning, I’m protected” Even broad-spectrum sunscreens that claim to be long lasting provide protection for only two to three hours. Sun protection needs to be reapplied regularly throughout the day, and more so when sweating or playing in the water.

“It’s cloudy, I don’t need sunscreen” Up to 80% of UV rays can

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Friday Sept 20 - 26, 2013

travel through cloud, fog and haze.

Sunburn, free radical production and photo aging all still occur on overcast days.

“I tan easily, so my skin is safe in the sun” A tan does little to protect against sunburn or skin cancer — tans and sunburn are sun damage. A deep dark tan is only equivalent to an SPF 4 sunscreen, which does nothing to protect you from long-term damage.

“Sun exposure is needed to absorb healthy Vitamin D” The skin can only make a limited amount of Vitamin D and after 10 minutes it is saturated.

“For a healthy immune system I recommend all my patients take 2000 IU of liposomal Vitamin D with K2 year-round and limit their sun exposure to a few minutes daily.” says Dr. Katie Branter, ND of Clear Skin Victoria Laser & Wellness Group.

“Skin cancer is not a major risk.”

One in eight people in Canada will get skin cancer in their lifetime. It is one of the most common forms of cancer.

When skin cancer is detected early, it is not necessarily life threatening, but surgery can leave disfiguring scars. If left untreated squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma can spread and become deadly.

“How can I enjoy the sun and have healthy skin?”

The first is to stay covered.

Clothes provide chemical-free and inexpensive sun protection. Most important is a wide-brimmed hat that keeps the sun off your face and ears. It is important to remember that the sun is the strongest and most harmful between 10 am and 4 pm, so covering up and seeking

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shade when possible is the best protection. Secondly, invest in quality sunscreen or sunblock with “broad” or “full spectrum SPF of 30-45 (higher than SPF 45 just means more chemicals and a false sense of protection) and use them every day.

These will protect against both UVA and UVB rays. (UVA breaks down the collagen and skin structure year-round, even through windows even during the winter months and UVB causes sunburn predominantly during peak summer hours).

“All suncreens are the same and irritate my skin” Mineral-based sunblocks containing zinc or titanium oxide sit on the surface of the skin, physically blocking the sun’s rays immediately after application.

Mineral SPF is often a much more natural or pure product and is ideal for sensitive skin because it causes fewer reactions or breakouts. Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing the sun’s rays. Some chemical filters can scatter sunrays, but still mostly just absorb and alter the rays to prevent sunburn. Chemical filters tend to be more irritating to skin and can cause allergic reactions.

They also require application 30 minutes prior to sun exposure.

Treating sunburn & longterm damage If you do get sunburned topical treatments such as fresh aloe vera gel, a chilled green tea compress or undiluted apple cider vinegar can be very soothing.

Skin damage caused by prolonged exposure and burns is a different matter. Sun exposure can break down collagen, which essentially forms the skin’s scaffolding, and can develop brown

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spots or dilated vessels that are visible on the surface of the skin.

Medical lasers are capable of treating most cosmetic concerns caused by sun damage, but seeking medical advice is necessary to choose the best option and to make sure there is early detection of any skin cancer.

Top 10 products and medical laser treatments recommended for the prevention and treatment of sun damage:

SPF

Coola Mineral SPF 30-45 Colorescience SPF 30

Sunforgettables Mineral Powder Dermaquest Tinted ZinClear SPF 30 Keys Island Rx SPF 30

TOPICAL ANTIOXIDANT SERUMS (free radical scavengers) Dermaceutic Serum C25 Vitamin C , A, E, B, B5 & Polyphenols Dermaquest C-Lipoic Antioxidant Serum

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texture, pigmentation and sun damage.

MEDICAL TREATMENTS Cutera LimeLight – an IPL device for the treatment of vascular and pigmented lesions.

Cutera Laser Genesis- a laser device that protects the epidermis, targets microvasculature and stimulates collagen production.

Cutera Pearl Fusion- an ablative laser therapy combination that results in epidermal renewal and dramatic reduction in wrinkles as well as treating uneven skin

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Friday Sept 20 - 26, 2013

Road Tripping Fandango: The back roads of Jalisco A lovely reader sent me a wonderful email with some great road trip ideas for those of us who might be a little more adventurous.

With the dog days of summer on us now, I thought I would share his travel itinerary and encourage you to take the time to explore this wonderful area we call home.

I recommend you check your tires, change your oil, pack a good map, a Spanish phrase book and some pesos. Everything else you can find along the way.

Que vaya bien. …..

Trip by Gordon Hayes f you have not been there, by all means take a trip to Guachinango. It is an old mining town on the order of San Sabastian del Oeste, and is really beautiful with winding streets, and a lovely zocalo, and a church built with beautiful, broken pieces of antique ceramic, The town is still a center of active mining of gold and silver and other minerals.

I

And, during the annual festival (the town Saint’s Day) the town is incredible and with a great different photo wherever one looks.

The main hotel is “Hotel Real de Minas” and is clean, hot water, king size or twin full size beds, and reasonably priced.

Just before arriving to the turn off to Guachinango, is a town on the right called Mixtlan. It is clean and very much like a small western town in the USA. The annual festival (Saint’s Day) is absolutely incredible and much, much more upscale and organized “goings on” than the festival in Gjuachinano.

And do not be concerned, all are invited ......... if you are there, you are one of attendees invited, and treated as such.

Before getting as far as Mixtlan or Guachinagngo you will see a turn to the right, and a sign saying “Los Volcanos.” This is another wonderful “off the path” excursion.

Los Volcanos & sister town Ahuacatepec are centers of huge cattle ranches............ the area is incre-

Banderas Bay Butterfies

By Moralea Milne

Malachite A Malachite butterfly’s green and black colouration helps to camouflage them in their preferred jungle or forested habitats, and I feel like I have outwitted them when I spy one flittering about, laying their eggs on plants in the Acanthaceae family, particularly Ruellia (wild petunia).

With a wingspread of 3.5 to 4 inches, it is a large, bold butterfly, common throughout much of coastal Mexico and as far south as Brazil.

Malachites, like a number of other butterfly species, not only sip nectar from flowers, they will also feast on dung, carrion and rotting fruit. While their food choices don’t sound very appetizing to us, they supply the sustenance required to survive.

dibly beautiful, with an impeccable clean and modern motel with TV, hot water, and a small restaurant which serves a great breakfast made to order, and handmade tortillas. NOTE: I can’t find the card, however it is the only motel in town and the Pemex gas station can give you directions (1/4 mile away?) At the end of the street with the motel on it, is a large restaurant out of long past, which has good food, and nice atmosphere. Los Volcanos is a good town to spend the night before venturing on the highway south/ east towards the coast.

After Los Valcanos is a very clean and modern town called Cuautla, with a statue of a Charro on the highway. The town is to the left and down under some beautiful arches paying tribute to the citizens of the town who now live in the USA. The town is spotless and nice homes, beautiful Zocalo and the economy is mainly from money sent by families in the United States. On the exit from Chautla you will see a large group of stables, and a large Charro Ring....... it is owned and operated by the world famous Mexican Ranchera singer, actor and film producer, Vicente Fernandez.

Continue down the road a little bit, past Ayutla (our current mayor of Puerto Vallarta was previously mayor of Ayutla), and make a right turn on highway 80, going south.

Immediately after Union de Tula there will be a road bearing to the left (with a possible sign saying either Ejutla or El Grullo...you want to go to Ejutla). The road winds through some incredibly

beautiful mountain country and you come to a fork - take the fork to the left (Ejutla) and in a minute or so you will see in the valley below a really, really picturesque town with 2 large churches in different parts of the town, with large monasteries connected to them, one for men (priests) and one for women (nuns). Very unique.

There is a statue of Christ with outstretched hands looking over the town (I think there might be a tram to the top). The town is spotless, clean, with a stream going through it and palm trees on the banks. The entrance road to the town is really well done.

It is probably shortest to back track and take the road back to highway 80 and proceed toward and through La Huerta, and to the coast. Go towards the signs that say Melaque and Puerto Vallarta.

Just after the Y in the road (you go toward Puerto Vallarta) you will see a sign saying La Manzanilla.

Go to La Manzanilla and stay a night or two. It is in Jalisco, but relatively undiscovered by people in Vallarta. It is a small, clean, and beautiful beach town with a few Canadians living year long.

The beach and bay are absolutely beautiful and uncrowded,

with sunsets that are as spectacular, or more so, than we have in Vallarta. There is, for all intents and purposes, one hotel in town .... Hotel Posada Tonala. The rooms are clean, hot water, TV, very nice atmosphere and just across the street from the beach.

Rates at last check were 450 king and 350 double......and negotiable when slow (mid-week?). Except for Monday there is a wonderful coffee and pastry cafe on the main square, and at night (again, except for Monday) on the street of the hotel, same side, is an outside taco/Mexican food stand with long tables and great food. There is also a nice upscale Italian Restaurant up the street on the beach side. At the other end of the street (toward where you entered) there is a lagoon where you can feed crocodiles raw fish......if that is of interest.

After leaving La Manzanilla the road to Puerto Vallarta is really varied and beautiful...... about a 2 1/2 to 3 hour drive. Some of best beaches and exclusive resorts are along this coast. The highway goes past the exit to Tomatlan and through El Tuito, and then to Puerto Vallarta. It makes for a nice 2 or 3 day trip.

Layla´s Restaurant

Beat the Heat Looking to escape the heat of Summer in Puerto Vallarta?

Look no farther!

Vallarta Tribune will bring you refreshing articles, tips and deals all summer.

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CAPOMO PARAISO ENCORE ADVENTURE PARK

EL SET

VALLARTA ZOO TEQUILERA MAMA LUCIA OUTDOOR VALLARTA ADVENTURE

LA CASA DE LA IGUANA

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May 31 - June 6, 2013 Vallarta Tribune 843

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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

Plants

2000

Mammals

80

Birds

300

Amphibians and Reptiles

23 23 23

Butterflies

85

500

50% of these species are endemic to MĂŠxico.

We propose the area to be designated a

Natural Preserve Because for Vallarta,

Without the Mountain...

There is no future

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RIVIERA NAYARIT

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Fun on the Riviera Nayarit

By Cat Morgan www.rivieranayaritfun.com

3rd Annual Taste of La Cruz Announced Playa Bucerias

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ext to La Cruz, and twenty minutes north of Puerto Vallarta are the beautiful beaches of Bucerias. Playa Bucerias, the town’s main beach, rests along a 62-mile (100-kilometer) stretch of Pacific coastline on Bahia Banderas Bay, Mexico’s largest natural bay and one of the world’s deepest, reaching depths of over 3,000 feet (915 meters).

As one of the longest beaches in Banderas Bay, Playa Bucerias extends across over five miles (8 kilometers) of golden sand, shallow water and moderate surf; making it a wonderful place for swimming and boogie boarding.

Bucerias bars and restaurants line the sandy shores and are perfect for relaxing with a tasty margarita, or dancing on the beach to live music during happy hour!

I took a walk on this beautiful long playa, starting from the north end on the edge of La Cruz

de Huanacaxtle. It took about forty minutes to reach the Bucerias Main Plaza. I continued on, reaching Nuevo Vallarta. It was a beautiful long walk, with a stretch of green jungle in-between Bucerias and Nuevo that is protected from development due to the many animals that live there. You could see where all of the sand crabs were living, buried in the humps of sand.

I walked about five minutes on the Nuevo Vallarta playa. The hotels were a bit grander with a lot more loungers out front. Being summertime, not many were lounging, but I could imagine them filled up during the busy season that is coming our way. I headed back into Bucerias, as the entire walk took me about 3.5 hours, and I could really feel it in the muscles of my bare feet! Back in Bucerias, the timing was perfect for a beautiful sunset.

I really love walking on the playa. It clears my mind and frees

T

he Marina Riviera Nayarit has unveiled the official logo/poster for the the 3rd Annual TASTE OF LA CRUZ to be held on Saturday January 18th, 2014 from3:00 until 8:00 PM at the Malecón and Xiriki Amphitheater of the Marina in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle.

This year’s poster model is the Queen of La Cruz (la Reina de las Fiestas Patronales de La Cruz) Edna Cornejo Ovalle.

The yearly event features area businesses, services and restaurants in a beautiful outdoor venue with the Banderas Bay and Puerto Vallarta as backdrop.

In addition, local artisans and

craftsmen offer unique regional art, clothing and food. A select group of musical acts from throughout the region will perform at the Marina’s Xiriki Amphitheater.

The last two events have been phenomenal successes attracting thousands of visitors to La Cruz de Huanacaxtle and the Marina Riviera Nayarit from throughout the Bahia de Banderas / Riviera Nayarit as well as Tepic, San Blas, Guadalajara, Mexico DF, Leon, San Miguel, Guanajuato and Queretaro.

Past exhibitors have been unanimous in their praise of the fiesta in providing an exciting and vibrant platform for the promotion of their businesses. Visitors enjoy the festival atmosphere, deli-

cious food and drink and the variety of intriguing businesses and entrepreneurs in such an impressive venue, all the while grooving to the music.

For out-of-towners, this is a date to target for your visit to the area. Coordination with several area hotels is in the works with dedicated shuttles to and from the event. Details will be announced as received.

Registration for exhibitors will begin in October. In the meantime, any questions, inquiries or pre-registration requests can be directed to landon@tasteoflacruz.com or you may call 322 116 4731.

my soul. Being close to the ocean is why I moved here, on the ever so amazing Riviera Nayarit. The Bucerias beach is perfect for long or short strolls. Take a walk on the playa and breath in some fresh sea air….it does a body and soul good.

See you on the beach!

Cat Morgan, owner of the Riviera Nayarit Fun Regional Network would love to hear from you with any comments, questions, or Riviera Nayarit News.

Contact her at Cat@RivieraNayaritFun.com

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A Canadian Enclave Bucerias, Bahia de Banderas, Nayarit, Mexico

By Madeline Milne Originally Published In Mexi-Go! Magazine

L

ocated about twenty minutes north of Puerto Vallarta, Bucerias is the second largest town (after Vallarta) on Bahia de Banderas. It runs along the northern bend of the Bay between La Cruz Huanxactle and Nuevo Vallarta.

Founded in the 1930’s, Bucerias is home to some 17,000 residents. Most noticeable is the large number of long-term foreign residents from Canada & the US. A quick study of licence plates will show you people from British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and points east have all made the move to Bucerias. Some days every person you meet on the street will be from Canada. A mention of Flin Flon, Red Deer or Kamloops doesn’t raise eyebrows but rather has you asking if they know your cousin’s wife’s brother, Bill.

The town’s name is derived from Buceo which means ‘diving’ as the original inhabitants were oyster fishermen who dove for their catch. You can still watch the divers each morning along the beach with their inner tube floaties and white buckets in hand. Fresh oysters are served daily at many of the local seafood stands. Payo Mariscos in the plaza is a favourite with locals and comes highly recommended, though watch out for the chili sauce – it’s hotter than you can imagine.

Bucerias is a typical sleepy Mexican village with the traditional plaza and church and a thriving Mexican community that is very comfortable with the foreigners who have moved in. For eight kilometers along the clean sandy beach you will find almost no one to interrupt your relaxation. There are few vendors and those that are around seem to be less ‘pushy’ than the ones in Puerto Vallarta or Cabo San Lucas. There is only one all-inclusive resort along the beach at the far south end of town with the rest of the beachfront real estate mostly made up of large homes and about a half-dozen high-rise condominium buildings.

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The Golden-zone, as it is called, has excellent upscale dining, shopping and gorgeous vacation homes.

Most Tuesday evenings in the plaza will find you amid a roaring group of hockey enthusiasts. A lack of ice is no deterrent as men and women stick handle their way around the “rink”. Sticks are supplied by the local Pizza-Sports Bar, Yo-Yo Mo’s. After the settling of scores everyone retires to the bar for cold cervesas and the best pizza in town.

Thursday evenings are slightly more high-brow with the famous art walk, where art lovers are invited to visit the galleries along the main strip as they serve cocktails and snacks. Be sure to stop at Casabor for their famous Tequila Punch and then visit Sandrina’s both for wonderful food and excellent shopping! Bonus: Sandrina’s is owned by a Victoria, BC native.

Each fall through to March, the Humpback whales migrate south to Banderas Bay and it’s common to witness spectacular displays of breaching whales from your beach chair. There are plenty of charter boats in the area that can take you on whale watching tours, most with the guarantee that you will see whales or your money back – clearly indicative that you’ll cross paths with whales during the peak months.

Sea turtles come ashore June

through December to lay eggs.

There are many conservation efforts in place to protect the turtles which were almost hunted to extinction, it is illegal in Mexico to kill sea turtles. Many in the former turtle harvesting communities turned to conservation and eco-tourism in the face of these relatively new laws. Just south of Bucerias, on the beaches of Nuevo Vallarta, there is a turtle nursery that has near daily turtle releases that are open to the public for a small donation. If you spot a turtle coming ashore or find a nest, it is important to mark off the area and alert the authorities.

The local police who cruise the beach on ATV’s can be of assistance, as can most locals.

There are many other activities around Bucerias to enjoy, such as championship golf, horseback riding, birdwatching, ATV tours, snorkeling, diving, sailing, surfing, stand-up paddle boarding, wind surfing, kite surfing, beachcombing etc. There are a plethora of philanthropic opportunities as well, with the local orphanage, animal rescue, sea turtle conservation and more. Investours (www.investours.org/), a local tour company, provides a unique experience, with street-tours of Bucerias that introduce you to the Mexican community and use a portion of your admission fee to support local vendors through

no-interest loans.

Bucerias is a laid-back and casual town with excellent seafood, clean, safe beaches and amenities that cater to a down-toearth market of budget conscious Canadians who appreciate the open spaces and quiet evenings

so removed from the all-inclusive resorts of Nuevo Vallarta or the night clubs of Puerto Vallarta. It feels like a small town in Canada, just with better weather, colder beer and less time commitments.

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art

Friday Sept 20 - 26, 2013

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Milagros, Our Little Miracles

By Marianne Menditto www.colibridesignvallarta.com

I

am sure many of us have seen the rustic and unique religious art coming out of Michoacan.

Wooden crosses and hearts, among other things, hand carved and painted, they are then festooned with little metal figures, taking the shape of many different things, from chickens to typewriters. These little figures are called ‘milagros’ and the folk art that is being made with them is steeped in ancient tradition.

Milagro is the Spanish word for a miracle or a pleasant surprise.

They are sometimes called ‘ex-votos’ or ‘dijes’, referring to the vow one takes in their traditional use. The use of ‘milagros’ is a folk custom in México and the southwestern US that can be traced back to the pre-christian inhabitants of the Iberian peninsula along the coast, especially in Andalusia, Majorca, and Catalonia. The Spanish ‘conquistadores’ brought ‘milagros’ with them from Europe as part of their Catholic faith. The church has at least tacitly allowed the practice for centuries and in many places it actually promotes their use as a source of revenue and as a strong act of devotion on the part of the faithful.

Traditionally, milagros have been used by people to show their sincerity and piousness when asking God, Jesus, the Virgen Mary or a patron saint for help with a special need. They are usually made up of a mix of silver and tin, but can be made of anything from clay to solid gold. Although the tradition has faded in many places, they can still be found, selling in front of churches and cathedrals, or from street vendors in the square outside. People buy them to leave on an altar, in a shrine, or pinned to the clothes of a statue of the saint to whom they wish to pray. They serve as a reminder of the persons’ particular need or desire and their petition.

The symbolism is very personal. A milagro in the shape of a leg can refer to a broken bone, running a marathon, learning to dance...

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according to what the petitioner has in mind.

Milagros are often used as talismans, and can be found in jewelry, or adorning some personal object. They are often carried in a purse or pocket for good luck and protection. A common use in México is to offer a milagro in the shape of eyes to the popular Santa Lucia, who is traditionally depicted carrying a tray with a pair of eyes on it. Sta. Lucia is the patron saint of good vision. Milagros in the shape of the Guadalupana, the Earth Mother, are found everywhere, left in shrines and pilgrimage places all over the country. Priests and caretakers of these places often have to remove milagros quickly to make room for new ones. Traditional healers, called ‘curanderos’, might also bless a milagro and tell their patient to carry it with them as part of the healing process or to ward off evil...or just to change their luck.

In México, milagros are often used to pay a debt to a patron saint for answering ones’ prayers.

This is known as a ‘Manda’. If a

person needs help, say with an arduous journey, they pray to the Santo Niño de Atoche for protection. When they successfully complete their journey, they are bound by the Manda to go to a shrine or church dedicated to El Niño and place a milagro, perhaps in the form of a walking man or a leg, along with a written note giving thanks. This is taken very seriously, as the consequences to ones’ faith for not fulfilling the Manda could be spiritually catastrophic.

So, what do YOU need? Find an appropriate milagro, have it blessed and may your prayers be answered.

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HOROSCOPE

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Horoscope ARIES Managing resources could be a theme this week.

You might want to change tactics if you have debts or other financial issues. Cooperating with key people may be essential to your success. Career matters could make a leap in progress, especially if you make a key decision. Just when you need to be at your shrewdest and most practical a Pisces Full Moon, which is great for parties and celebrations, could give you that spaced-out feeling while bringing a secret to light.

TAURUS Relationships could be intense and also need careful handling. You could be dealing with someone who wants to play their cards close to the chest, so you will need to read between the lines. You could be working with aspects of the law, too. If so, be sure to read the fine print on any documents. The Full Moon could bring things to a head, but try not to overreact even if you’re tempted to. You could be delighted by some upbeat news on the work front, however!

GEMINI

You may be very businesslike and eager to get what you want, but someone

else may be equally determined. Don’t tiptoe around this week - you could lose out.

You might have to work on a strategy that pulls no punches. However, the Full Moon on September 19 could dash your resolve by highlighting your emotions when you really need to be strong. Keep your focus on your goal and try not to let it waver. The Sun’s move into Libra might bring romantic opportunities, too.

Cancer Even though Saturn in your romance zone and Pluto in your relationship zone make a friendly angle this week, you may still wonder what’s hit you. Intense emotions, which could contain traces of anger or resentment, might make it hard to show your caring and loving side. Perhaps something needs to change. However, any changes you do make might have to be quite radical. The Pisces Full Moon could bring a positive and powerful insight if you can be still long enough to catch it.

LEO You might be ready for action, but you might need a stronger approach to getting things done if you want to make headway this week.

Issues linked with home and lifestyle affairs could be in need of some sort of transformation. This might even equate to structural changes to your place so that you can move ahead with new plans. Despite this being a

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no-nonsense week, it does have a spiritual quality to it. It could make you aware that whatever is happening has a reason and a purpose.

VIRGO

You might need to go back to the drawing board concerning a possibly flawed creative project. This could be a week of intense discussions and ongoing conversations around the issue of what should be done next. What you eventually decide may be nothing like your original plan. A romance could also start to unravel, but it might be saved by the Pisces Full Moon, as it encourages expression of those deeper feelings. Surrender to the magic and it may all be OK.

LIBRA You may want to cut back on expenses and consider ways to recycle more things. There’s a rather intense energy focused on your personal financial zone that’s encouraging you to make the most of what you have while learning how to be more resourceful.

In fact, you may be applying these ideas to your home and family life. Although the Sun entering your sign this week brings an energy boost, consider taking a more relaxed schedule on September 19 to coincide with the Full Moon.

SCORPIO

You could find this to be a rather intense week, but then

Friday Sept 20 - 26, 2013

you might also enjoy the challenges that come with it. You could be moving through a period of change, and the current influences seem to be bringing this to a head. Over the coming days don’t be surprised if you feel so squeezed in a certain situation that the decision to do something about it morphs into practical action. Romantic options are showing up for you, too, although you might be busy with other things.

SAGITTARIUS If you find yourself quietly seething over some incident, it could be because you failed to stand up for yourself or compromised too much and now regret it. Perhaps what the current setup is trying to tell you is that it’s time to be clear about who you are and what you want. Get ready for a Full Moon in your home zone, which might make this a great week for a party or get-together, so long as you’re prepared for it to be fun and noisy.

CAPRICORN Pluto turns direct in your sign this week, so you may feel like you’re heading for a mini rebirth over the coming weeks and months. Plus, other powerful influences could be encouraging you to take stock of your needs, especially in connection with your social circle. Whether you make a decision to distance yourself from certain people or it happens naturally, see it as a sign that

the transformation has already begun. It’s onward and upward from here as new friends could come with exciting benefits.

AQUARIUS A chat with a friend could give you a fresh perspective on how to deal with any career or job challenges. Be open to changing your point of view. This may be necessary in order to take advantage of current progressive influences. On another note, don’t let fear or insecurity make you lash out, especially if someone is trying to help you. A Full Moon in your shopping zone midweek might encourage you to want to spend in order to feel good. Enjoy it, but go easy!

PICSES Life happens when you take a walk on the wild side.

Something inside may be urging you on and encouraging you to let go of patterns that have kept you down. You are so much bigger in reality, and in your heart you know it. You might have to lose something in order to gain something, and that could be security, which may be an illusion anyway. Enjoy this week’s Full Moon in your sign. It could coincide with the fulfillment of a desire, goal, or dream.

EVENTS

Friday Sept 20 - 26, 2013

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GLOBALeAPPS congratulates Engage Mexico on its 5th Social Media Conference GLOBALeAPPS is a gold level sponsor of the Engage Mexico, Social Media Conference #5 which will take place the 14th – 17th of November at the Sheraton Resort & Conference Center in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

GLOBALeAPPs has been directly selling mobile apps to businesses in the United States and Mexico for more than 2 years and has just merged with a company in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico named Love Going Social which is a 3 year established marketing, web and social media company.

According to David Tarr “This completes our company as a total e-solutions company.”

GLOBALeAPPS offers a wide variety of e-solutions that can

work in any size business and with any budget.

The fifth Social Media conference is about to take Puerto Vallarta by storm!! Not only will there be plenty of excellent speakers on every subject matter for social media enhancements, but… there will be the experienced team of GLOBALeAPPS, who are certified Apple and Android app developers to answer any questions first hand on what goes into creating the perfect app for any size business.

About Engage Mexico Engage Mexico, Social Media Conference is designed for business owners, community managers, and social media enthusiasts who are eager to learn more about this marketing technique as a way to grow their

business and enhance their web exposure.

There is a special Pre-Conference just for Real Estate marketing in Mexico’s ever changing environment.

Currently, the event’s roster of expert speakers include Jay Handler, Lon Safko, Marco Ayuso, Guillermo Perezbolde, Andre Bourque, Brian Massey, Janet Fauts, Jeff Barrett, Madeline Milne, Alonso Reyes, Juan Luis Chavez, Jamie Turner, Andrea Vahl, Viveka von Rosen, Fernando Labastida, Alvaro Ferreira as well as many others..

For more information and to register for the Engage Mexico, Social Media Conference # 5 please visit www.engagemexico. com.

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CLASSIFIED AD

GRINGO BINGO !!

Thursday, September 26 5:00 p.m.

Proceeds benefit PuRR Project Los Alcatraces--Fluvial Join us in air-conditioned comfort and play Bingo at Los alcatraces on Thursday, September 26, beginning at 5:00 p.m. Compete for great prizes. There’s free parking, great food and drink…and did we mention air conditioning??

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

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 /grupoecologico.com Friends of pv animals Volunteers workingk to enhance the lives of shelter animals. They supplement food, medications and socialization for unwanted and stray cats and dogs housed in PV´s city pound. For info and donations visit www.friendsofpvanimals.com Horizonte de Paz: Offers a safe, whealing 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

EVENTS

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LIVE MUSIC VENUES

329.298.0140 Wed-Mon 9:00 am 10:00 pm

Please be sure to contact the venue to confirm all events.

India Gate Allende 124 Centro 322.223.2424 Mon-Sat 3:00 pm 11:00 pm

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

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 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.

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Friday Sept 20 - 26, 2013

SPCA de PV ADORABLE DOG IN THE SPOTLIGHT... WINSTON

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 Café Roma Encino 287 Centro Mon-Sun 10:pm -3:00 am

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

Sometimes it is just amazing what these little guys can endure, isn’t it? Take the case of Winston here. He is only a three year old Chihuahua mix, about 5 kilos or 11 pounds, and he has been through more trauma than one can imagine in his short life so far. He was discarded by his family and forced to learn how to survive on the street only to be hit by a car. Then it turned out he also had a tick borne disease that required lengthy treatment. After he recovered from that he had to have surgery on his broken leg. He is just now finishing up his swim therapy. But Winston is a survivor and is totally healed. He has only the slightest limp which we expect will go away completely. Even after all he has suffered so far in his life he is just a sweet adorable little dog that truly deserves a loving home. Please contact us at spcapv@gmail.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.

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

Distributes toys and constructs play-

grounds 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, volunteers 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 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.

BRAIN TEASERS

Friday Sept 20 - 26, 2013

easy

22

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medium

Spanish Vocabulary These simple tricks will help you recognize English words you already know!

Most English words that end with TION can be made into Spanish by changing TION to CIÓN.

SUDOKU

hard

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.

English

Spanish

Reservation

Reservación

Conformation

Confirmación

Reception

Recepción

Verification

Verificación

Invitation

Invitación

Cancellation

Cancelación

Celebration

Celebración

Collection

Colección

Revolution

Revolución

Promotion

Promoción

Nation

Nación

Communication Comunicación Conversation

PURR PROJECT FEATURED FELINE

Conversación

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 C

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

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Old Town & Centro Paradise Community Centre Freddy Tucan restaurant Los Mercados Timothy Real Estate Page in the Sun Misha was named after Michelle, one of the volunteers from Vida Vacations who came to the shelter to help us paint casitas. Misha was found on the street with severe damage to her tail, so Dra. Eva removed the damaged part, leaving Misha with a very cute ‘shortie’ tail. She’s tiny for her four-month age, but in very good health and very social.

As with all PuRR adoptees, she’s

Hotel Zone Villa del Palmar - Vallarta Starbucks – Peninsula

been spayed and has her vaccinations…all she needs is a loving home. If you’d like to give Misha a forever home, please send an email to: adopt@purrproject.com.

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

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

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

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Authentic Mexican Food!

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

Olas Altas 474 , Romantic Zone Reservations 222 8382