Issue 862, October 11 - 17, 2013

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Oct 11 - 17, 2013 Free Issue 862

Art & Culture IRERI TOPETE

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Travel

THE MONARCH EXPERIENCE

Welcome

Friday Oct 11 - 17, 2013

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Welcome to Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit Here is some advice to make your trip a little easier and more enjoyable.

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

COVER PHOTO Mexican Craft Madeline Milne

PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS Fernando Gonzalez Corona DIRECTOR Lic. Victor Falcon victorfalcon@outlook.com EDITOR Lic. Madeline Milne mmilne@vallartatribune.com EDITORIAL BOARD Marcia Blondin Raymond C. Beaty Lois Ellison John & Christie Forget Landon Hollander Nancy Van Landingham Robina Oliver SALES Dora Luz Luna Sales Manager Cel. 044 322 105 0183 dora@vallartatribune.com DESIGNER Cynthia Estela Andrade G. cisandra@vallartatribune.com

For Up-To-Date Information Visit 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”.

TAXIS: There are set rates within defined zones of town.

Do not enter a taxi without agreeing on the price with the driver first. Price is per trip not person.

MONEY EXCHANGE: Although you may have to wait in line for a few minutes, banks will give you a higher rate of exchange than the exchange booths (caja de cambio). You will need your passport.

Better yet, use your bank card to withdraw funds from any ATM machine. Note that ATM’s in the banks are the safest to use and generally charge lower fees.

DRINKING WATER: For the 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.

EXPORTING PETS: Fall in love with the street dog outside your hotel or a puppy on the Malecon

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doesn’t mean they can’t come home with you. The process is fairly inexpensive and only takes a day or two. You need a certificate of health from a local vet among other things. The time of year that pets can travel in the cargo section of the plane may be your biggest challenge. For the most up-to-date information contact the Puerto Vallarta SPCA at spcapv@gmail.com.

COMMON SENSE: Just as you wouldn’t walk around your hometown drunk and beligerent, it is not acceptable to do that here. While Mexicans are a forgiving bunch, basic politeness is appreciated. For the guys, peeing in public is a major faux pas and if you are caught, can get you tossed in jail or an expensive fine. Pay attention to your surroundings.

Pay your bills. Be courteous.

And have fun!

DRINKING AND DRIVING: First off – just don’t. The consequences are not worth it. Taxis are cheap and plentiful. Fines are as much as 10,000 pesos.

You can be taken to jail and your vehicle impounded. There are many checkstops on the weekends and you will be asked to blow if they suspect you have been drinking.

LEGAL SYSTEM: Not knowing the law is not an valid excuse in Mexico or anywhere. If you find yourself caught in a legal situation be aware that guilt is presumed until your innocence can be proven.

This is a very difficult lesson to learn if you are visiting from the United States or Canada in particular. Immediately contact your consulate for assistance.

Calling in Mexico Calling phones in Mexico can be tricky as it is different than in the US or Canada. There are different codes you need to use depending if you are calling landlines or cellular phones and if they are local or long distance.

Long-distance calls from within Mexico For national long-distance calls (within Mexico) the code is 01 plus the area code and phone number.

For international long-distance calls, first dial 00, then the country code (for the U.S. and Canada the country code is 1, so you would dial 00 + 1 + area code + 7 digit number).

Calling Cell Phones (from a land line) If you are calling from a landline within the area code of the Mexican cell phone number dial 044, then the 10 digit number including area code. Outside of the area code (but still within Mexico) dial 045 and then the 10 digit phone number. Cell phone to cell phone only requires the 10 digit number.

Phone Cards Phone cards (“tarjetas telefonicas”) for use in pay phones can be bought at newstands and in pharmacies in denominations of 30, 50 and 100 pesos.

Pay phones do not accept coins.

When buying a phone card for pay phone use, specify that you would like a “tarjeta LADA,” because pre-paid cell phone cards are also sold in the same establishments.

Calling Toll-Free Numbers Some toll free numbers work from Mexico to the US and Canada, but many do not.

You need to dial a different prefix.

To call the following toll free prefixes, dial as follows: 800 numbers Dial 001-880-then the number 866 numbers Dial 001-883-then the number 877 numbers Dial 001-882-then the number 888 numbers Dial 001-881-then the number

Emergencies: 060 Red Cross: 065 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

Editorial

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Friday Oct 11 - 17, 2013

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

Lynnette Fairclough

Editor’s Note

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’m late with this tonight because I spent the evening with dear friend, Gary Beck, at the Russian Ballet. It was fancy as it sounds.

Now, I’m a novice when it comes to ballet, and aside from the Nutcracker when I was a kid and that creepy movie with Natalie Portman, I have no real knowledge of what makes good ballet. The standing ovation at the end was a pretty strong indicator that the Russians came and conquered our little theater in Puerto Vallarta.

When I wasn’t wondering which dancers were sleeping together, who was the mean girl in the group and assessing the dancers in tights… muscle structure, I was enthralled with the leaping and

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

Russian State Ballet Don Quijote, at Teatro Vallarta

the spinning, the symmetry, the costumes, the comedy; it was all very engaging. The six year-old ballerina in me left enamored and starry-eyed.

I am also a novice when it comes to Opera. For the second year in a row, Teatro Vallarta is presenting live HD broadcasts from the New York Metropolitan Opera. I’m going to give it a shot and see if I can’t class myself up a bit or at the very least, enjoy some more tights.

Upcoming Operas are La Nariz on October 26th, Tosca on November 9th and Falstaff on

December 14th. More information on Teatro Vallarta, and all its shows, can be found at www. teatrovallarta.com Winter season is just around the corner, calendars are filling up fast but I haven’t heard much about Halloween or Day of the Dead. If you have an event at the end of the moth you’d like to share with the readers of the Tribune, please send me an email. Who knows, maybe I’ll show up in tights.

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

Madeline@vallartatribune.com

Forwarded to the Tribune, Lynnette recommends these great activities to really experience the quality of life we enjoy everyday in Puerto Vallarta. She sent us eight and who are we to try to cut down on the fun!

Sundays on the beach with best friends – Sunday is family day and a great time to see families playing at the beach Trying different restaurants with Wednesday Dinner Club (with phones/texts/emails turned off) They meet each week at a different restaurant. Email Ray Beatty for more information. beatynyc@msn.com Volunteering at Colina spay & neuter clinic, SPCAPV Sanctuary and at the Acopio – All are listed in the Vallarta Tribune Volunteering at the Farmers Market or Biblioteca Los Mangos with the SPCA – Saturdays at the market of the library.

An afternoon at the air conditioned movies – find the listings and times in the Tribune each week

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An afternoon at Teatro Vallarta in Centro watching Opera simulcast from the Met in New York.

Horseback riding from Paso Ancho with the locals Visit the famous Vallarta Botanical Gardens and enjoy a free guided tour

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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.

Would you like to share your favourite things to do in Banderas Bay? Each week we feature a local resident who shares their insider tips with us. Send your 7 Things to mmilne@vallartatribune.com

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

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

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

Check out the back of this paper for many of the most deserving organizations.

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

NEWS

Friday Oct 11 - 17, 2013

“The US and Mexico base the renewal of their alliance on economic integration,”

“Mexico could make North America the world leader in oil production,”

“The future of film is in Latin America, says Venice festival director,”

US Vice President Joe Biden, and Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto, ratified the renewal of the strategic alliance between both countries, based on a shared vision: to make North America the driver of the global economy in the 21st century, based on common interests and commercial integration

Mexico is poised to join the North American oil revolution as a new government is moving to significantly modify 75-year-old constitutional restrictions against foreign involvement in the oil sector, allowing US firms to go in for the first time and help develop the country’s sizable untapped reserves.

Mexican David Pablos (Mexico City, 1982), one of the continent’s rising stars, was welcomed with applause after the screening of his film La vida después. The film was shown in the “Horizons” section that features more experimental films.

Washington Times, 12/09/2013

“The Mexican government increases taxes to reduce inequality,”

“OEM investments ride the Mexican wave,”

Mexican artist Mariana Castillo Deball has received the prestigious Nationalgalerie award for young art in Berlin, while the award for film, which includes a 13,500dollar prize, was also awarded to a Mexican, Víctor Ramírez.

Le Monde, 11/09/2013

Mexico’s attractiveness as an investment location is increasing rapidly, with economic growth fueling ‘invest in Mexico’ campaigns overseas to capture all available Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).

According to the government, these measures will increase public resources from 1.4% of the GDP to 3% by 2018.

News Bites

Aeroméxico became one of the first 14 airlines in the world to fly with the most modern and equipped aircraft, the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, in September 2013.

Mexico will be the first country in Latin America with General Motors (GM) OnStar technology, which offers online safety and communications solutions for Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac owners.

Sherwin-Williams, the US paint firm, finalized the purchase of its Mexican peer Comex’s business in the US and Canada for 165 million dollars, with debt.

Automotive World, 02/09/2013

Money Bits

Cemex will combine its assets with the US Concrete Supply Co. in a new company that will produce concrete in North and South Carolina.

Cuauhtémoc Moctezuma plans to diversify and increase its market share in 2014 with a new version of its Indio beer, which will either be a light beer or one with higher alcohol content.

BBVA Bancomer will grant 10.86 billion pesos in credit to Mexican SMBs that operate internationally. The financing will be in dollars, with securities from the National Foreign Trade Bank (Bancomext) and will be aimed at more than 11,000 customers.

In support of the Puerto Vallarta Men’s Chorus

O Globo, 06/09/2013

“Mexican artists receive National galerie award in Berlin,” Deutsche Welle, 20/09/2013

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Dine OUT in Vallarta

Mexico in the World News

El País, 21/09/2013

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Mexico’s international reserves were 170.927 billion dollars in the week of September 20, 2013, a 374 million-dollar increase, and reached a new historic record, according to the Bank of Mexico (Banxico).

More than one in every 25 businesses in New York is owned

by Mexicans, with annual gains in excess of 17 billion dollars, informed the General Consulate of Mexico in New York.

Mexico exported more than 6 billion dollars in art and antiques between January and July 2013, 47% more than in the same period of 2012, according to Banxico’s statistics.

Mexico captured 8.305 billion dollars in currency from international travelers between January and July 2013, 7.2% more than in the same period of 2012, informed the Ministry of Tourism (Sectur) with data from Banxico.

The Mexican peso is the 8th most active currency in the world for financial transactions and the leader among emerging countries, according to a survey by the Bank of International Settlements (BIS).

MUSIC: Share the sounds and sights of Puerto Vallarta Men’s Chorus as we fill the night air with music! With Banderas Bay as the backdrop join us for our FREE CONCERT AT LOS ARCOS AMPHITHEATER. Commencing at 7:30 PM on Sunday, November 3, it will include a preview PVMC’s December 15 Holiday Concert “Magica Navidad” and an introduction to the Dine OUT event.

DINING: Sixteen of Puerto Vallarta’s restaurants have agreed to donate a percentage of their proceeds to PVMC for the two (2) day Dine OUT. On Tuesday, November 5 and Tuesday, November 12, you can support the Chorus by simply having breakfast, lunch or dinner at one of these restaurants. Invite friends to join you!

Golden Fork Restaurants are donating 20% to the chorus, while Silver Spoon Restaurants are donating 15%. Cuisine, price points and locations vary.

MORE MUSIC! PVMC will host another free concert at Los Arcos Amphitheater on Sunday, November 17, at 7:30 PM. For more information on the restaurants and available menus, please visit www.pvmenschorus.org

WHY? “See and support PVMC as we make history. We are so much more than just another male choral group providing entertainment.

As the first group of its kind in Mexico, we demonstrate our multi-cultural approach to quality music. As gay men (and some straight men too), we want you to see who we are—everyday men who love to sing and give back to our community!” - Richard Canter, President PVMC Leadership Team

BARS:

Free Concerts:

Before or after dinner stop by La Margarita Latino Bar on Tuesday, November 5 and Garbo’s Piano Bar on Tuesday, November 12.

These two bars are generously supporting the event and are fun places to hang out!

Sunday, November 3 and Sunday, November 17.

Dine OUT:

Tuesday, November 5 and Tuesday, November 12.

NEWS

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Día de los Muertos in Puerto Vallarta The city of Puerto Vallarta prepares for Day of the Dead celebrations with the installation of altars downtown from October 30th to November 2nd. In addition to the traditional celebrations around town, the city will also host two events.

On November 1st, free Pan de Muertos and chocolate will be served at Plaza Lázaro Cárdenas, and on November

2nd, Calle Agustín Rodríguez (in front of the Mercado del Cuale municipal market) will be closed to traffic where there will be festivities including a performance by the Xiutla folkloric dancers, Mariachi music, jineteo or dancing horse riding, Charro, great food and crafts. Be sure to mark this event on your calendar for a truly unique experience!

Lawyers confront authorities over pothole problem in ‘Bachelajara’

By Duncan Tucker Originally posted on duncantucker. wordpress.com

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ditor’s Note: Not unlike our own roads here in Puerto Vallarta, it seems residents of Guadalajara are tired of the potholes / or as I like to call them albercas.

Fed up of driving along roads riddled with potholes, a group of Guadalajara-based lawyers have banded together and are preparing legal action to force the local authorities to carry out adequate road repairs.

The lawyers will bring a collective lawsuit against the Guadalajara and Zapopan municipal governments and the state departments of mobility, infrastructure and public works for negligence in the construction and maintenance of the city’s streets.

The attorneys are not seeking compensation for damages caused by potholes; they simply want a judicial authority to ensure that the authorities properly use

their allocated budgets for fixing the road surfaces.

“When I see a pothole I think of an act of corruption because it means that someone did not do things right, i.e. they had a budget, they spent it and it did not work, which also means that they will then spend again,” Roberto Illanes, one of the lawyers involved, told Spanish-language daily Mural.

Legalized in Mexico in February 2012, collective lawsuits enable groups of up to 30 people to jointly sue entities such as companies or government bodies.

The lawyers aim to file the lawsuit in December 2013 or January 2014. Aside from taking legal action, they will also ask the public University of Guadalajara and Mexico City’s UNAM to carry out investigations into how best to build roads.

Guadalajara’s road surfaces have become so uneven during the rainy season that some have dubbed the city “Bachelajara” (bache is pothole in Spanish).

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Friday Oct 11 - 17, 2013

Wanderings on Olas Altas

By Poncho Davalos alfonso@tropicasa.com

Sun, Beach, Party and ….

PVR Music+Culture

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ne of the events many of us are eagerly waiting for is PVR Music + Culture 2013. This five-day event will take place November 27 to December 1st, here in the hot leading destination for LGBT travellers, Puerto Vallarta.

The festival is perfectly timed to take place during the US Thanksgiving weekend, so you’ll already have a long-weekend off of work and it is featuring an incredible blend of home-grown musical talent paired with a worldclass line-up of internationally recognized DJ’s. It’s a winning combination.

In addition to a spectacular line up of music and culture spanning five days and five nights, Puerto Vallarta’s beautiful beaches and epic nightlife set the stage for the perfect vacation and ultimate getaway for North American travellers, global tourists and Mexican locals alike.

Over thirty community partners and locally-operated businesses join with PVR 2013 Festival in welcoming visitors to Zona Romantica, Mexico’s utmost LGBT-friendly destination. This phenomenal mix of international talent, great music, fun parties

All of them in different locations in the Romantic Zone.

Is time to pamper yourself?

You’ve been working hard and you deserve a break. A great option is to rent a condo or villa during your stay. Sometimes a little privacy goes a long way.

There are plenty of great options available for all the budgets and services. It depends on what do you want. It is always is better set a budget first and analyze the options available.

First time in Puerto Vallarta? and local flavour during the US Thanksgiving weekend make PVR 2013 music+culture the perfect combination for all LGBT event-goers to visit Puerto Vallarta this November.

Fiesta time !

Event line-up is: November 27 Welcome Sunset Party November 28 – Thanksgiving Party, November 30 – SPLASH during the day, and the legendary WHITE PARTY in the evening.

December 1 - ADIOS PVR! Lots of parties all during the night.

I know this five days celebration will be awesome, and I want you have a good time in Puerto Vallarta. As one of the top LGBT Mexican destinations, Puerto Vallarta is accepting of moderate affection in public or holding hands, and the age of consent in Mexico is 18 years old.

Hey guys! For more information where the parties will be 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. Follow me on twitter @ADTropicasaPV

El Foco on C7 Radio: OVERVIEW Claudia Lovera, president of the Vallarta Bird Festival organizing committee, graciously joined us for this week’s broadcast of El Foco. Considering Mexico is ranked as the 5th country in the world by number of endemic bird species, and that the World Tourism Organization estimates 21% of eco-tourists define bird-watching activities as extremely important during their trips, the Vallarta Bird Festival will be an important player in promoting this activity in the Banderas Bay Region.

In addition to inviting us to participate in the 3rd Vallarta Bird Festival which will take place next year, from March 6th to the 9th, Claudia and her team are making a general call to anyone who would like to help as organizing volunteers, bird-guides, vendors for their organic market, and sponsors. If you would like to get involved, you can contact them at 22-274-07 or puertovallartabirdfestival@gmail.com If you would like to know more about the engaging civil sector in our region, join us tune in to 91.9 FM C7 Radio on Mondays at 4:00 pm (4:50 pm for the English summary sponsored by Vallarta Tribune) and join us on twitter @C7ElFoco.

Don’t forget to tune in next week at 4:00 pm on C7 Jalisco Radio 91.9 FM or at 4:50 to tune into the English summary brought to you by the Vallarta Tribune.

LOCAL

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Friday Oct 11 - 17, 2013

PV Sea Dive

By Sue Keevil pvseadive.com

I Think The Holiday Is Over

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ersonally, after having eighteen months of being super busy, I have enjoyed a month of “working” three or four days a week. This is about to stop though. I will miss my lazy days of doing whatever I please, but my ever expanding waistline is ready for busy days again, and today was one of them.

I was up and ready at to go at eight o´clock (I prefer having only one eight o´clock in my day) to meet my certified divers , who were really up for a day of fun diving at the Marietas, along with two guys doing their first two dives of their open water course. With the truck loaded, I was at the marina by 8.30 to load the boat. This tank humping and equipment carrying should really stop my clothes from any further shrinkage.

With everyone on board, we set off on our eighty minute journey to the islands. Well, it should have taken eighty minutes, but the dolphins were playing everywhere we looked, so my captain slowed and followed them, allowing some cool photo´s to be taken. We did this stop-start action for about the next half an hour or so until we reached the islands.

We had a fifteen year old lad with us who is crazy about diving. His mum however, was not so crazy about it. I watched her getting slightly anxious about the dive, and then she said she thought she would snorkel, and explained that she had only come along to be with her son. Nah, I thought. She was certified and really sweet, so I split the groups up to leave the two of us together.

After everyone else was in the water and heading off diving, I got her geared up. I explained to her that I had carried all of her equipment to the boat, so she may as well do some lazy snorkelling, and we will see what will happen. She perched on the side of the boat, and in her own time fell back into the ocean. I got her swimming around on the surface for a couple

By Erin Staley oldtownfm.com

Next Stop on the North American Farmers’ Market Tour - Urban Farming

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of minutes while she relaxed a bit, then asked her if she wanted to pop on down to the bottom, which she could see, since the water was so clear. To my surprise, she lifted her hose up to let the air out of her jacket and then calmly descended. I will admit she held my hand for most of the dive, but I can´t blame her for that!

Upon surfacing fourty minutes later, she squealed and talked very excitedly about the huge lobster she had seen along with all the pretty coral, the giant green moray and the abundance of tropical fish. (Getting a nervous diver comfortable in the water is one of the most pleasurable parts of being an instructor.)

Her son was equally thrilled with the tunnels and caves he was taken through, and the amount of morays he had spotted. Needless to say, when dive two happened, mum and son were in the water first, eagerly awaiting the dive. It was a total pleasure to be in the water with these two, and I did the whole dive with my chest puffed out. My belly naturally followed!

Back on the boat, everyone is looking very smug with their day and they are all excitedly chatting about the many places they have all dived or want to dive. I was secretly dreaming of being able to fit back into my extra small wetsuit!

his week, the Old Town Farmer’s Market-Tianguis Cultural team dove into an issue that is dear to our hearts – the urban farm movement. Simply put, urban farming harvests high quality, good-for-you foods on private, unused land within a city.

For the last three decades, this movement has developed out of response to the rising concerns of food production. According to cityfarmer.org, 50 percent of the world’s population has been living in urban locations since 2002. Societies have woken up to the seriousness of civilization’s exploitation of the earth’s natural resources. With global climate changes, water pollution and top soil depletion, practical solutions are needed more than ever.

Urban farming is one of these solutions. It has been wildly successful around the world.

So much so that we devoted a few days to check out two urban farms: Sole Food Street Farms in Vancouver and Mason Street City Farm in Victoria.

With four locations throughout Vancouver, Sole Food Street Farms transforms private, unused plots into urban farms. It is managed by Cultivate Canada, a nonprofit organization uniting farming, land stewardship and community well-being. Besides producing delicious fruits and veggies, they nurture the human spirit. Inner city residents – many of whom are overcoming addiction or mental illness – work at Soul Food Farms. They play an active role in growing chemical-free produce which is then sold to area restaurants and farmers’ markets.

According to solefoodfarms. org, “production from these very intensive urban spaces can be 15-25 times higher than more

conventional ‘open field’ farm plantings.” In order to maximize their efforts, Sole Food Street Farms uses moveable planters.

These wooden boxes yield 20-30 tons of produce a year. Not only does the system save on space and prevent contamination, but it allows for easy transport. Should a landowner need his valuable property once again, the staff will simply wheel the farm out with a forklift.

The Mason Street City Farm Next was next on our urban farming itinerary. Tucked in the heart of Victoria’s North Park neighborhood, this quarter-acre farm abounds with rows of veggies, herb boxes and honey pots. It even has its own flock of egg-laying chickens.

Started by the Mason family in early 1900s, the farm was like many in the community. With time, the farm took on the personality of its various owners and their earth-friendly interests. But by the late 1990s, the Mason Street City Farm had been abandoned.

Thanks to Angela Moran and Jesse Brown, the farm has been revitalized. Moran, a Niagara Falls native, used her experience as an international WWOOF farmer (volunteers who live on and work on organic farms) to cultivate a working and learning environment. Today, she and Brown teach apprentices how to work the farming system while distributing wholesale products to Victoria’s restaurants, farmers’ markets and corner grocery stores.

Moran and Brown encourage

others to duplicate the Mason Street City Farm model. They want people around the world to realize the benefits of innovative farming methods and social responsibility. The farming duo also details the creation of Victoria’s first greenhouse aquaponic system. Over 20,000 liters of water function as thermal mass, extending the Mason Street City Farm’s growing season for year-round food production.

Both the Sole Food Street Farms and the Mason Street City Farm impressed upon us the importance of investing in the future of food production.

Urban farms are a viable option in Puerto Vallarta, and one that could sustain the health of our community. Our belief in its benefits goes hand in hand with our Old Town Farmers’ Market “make it, bake it, grow it” philosophy. We believe in supporting responsible food production. And we encourage you to support those area farmers, markets and restaurants who share a passion for high quality, good-for-you foods.

Be sure to join us as we present the best of Vallarta’s producer-only foods and products. Opening day is Saturday, November 2. 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.

LOCAL

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By Leza Warkentin rhythm2rain@gmail.com

By Marcia Blondin marciavallarta@gmail.com

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offers a taste of everything she makes and all of it is so delicious!

And then to add to her already large list of condiments the most expensive spice in the world Saffron. YUMMY! So, why is it I haven’t heard a peep from anyone who has helped a tourist? Does it mean nobody in Vallarta has bothered to help a tourist? Or does it just mean nobody has bothered to write about it and email me? Tourists are our single most valued asset in the whole Bay of Banderas!

They feed us, clothe us, let us buy cars and an occasional martini!

And, really, a tourist doesn’t have to be “in trouble” they just have to be recognized as the most important people in Vallarta. As expats it is our duty to take care of them.

Shop keepers wouldn’t have stores, realtors would be jobless, the Bay would be empty of tours and so on and so forth; so get with it people! Reach out and help someone, make their day and their vacation extra special. Then email me with details.

See you Saturday at the Farmer’s Market. Bring a tourist!

Friday Oct 11 - 17, 2013

Paradise and Parenting

This is Paradise...

reetings to all and welcome to the Paradise Community Center on Pulpito, in the heart of Old Vallarta.

Every Saturday from 9 to 1 the Center hosts the Co-op Farmer’s Market and everyone is invited to visit and shop. This newspaper, The Vallarta Tribune, is morphing again into an exciting new look that’s easier to read, more recognizable and the ink won’t come off on your paws. Congratulations on yet another giant step forward by our editor Madeline. Brava, chica!

Last weeks Farmer’s Market welcomed back a handful of ‘old’ vendors. It was lovely to see them and the dozens of new inventive items for sale. Every passing Saturday will see more and more returning to our fold, so don’t miss a day! I would say the Market traffic was triple that of the week before and included our esteemed editor with Julie, a new addition to the Tribune. Always nice to see you Ms. Milne and Company.

From diva “Jan’s Specialty Condiments” comes a fabulous new addition: Pineapple Chutney with Saffron. I personally can’t wait to try it this Saturday. Jan always

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This Magic Moment

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think we all have those magical moments when we feel like the best parents ever. If they come to you more than once a day on average, I would like your phone number and/or home address.

However if they come for you as they do for me, they are sweet for the rareness of them, sort of like good berries in Vallarta grocery stores.

Everyone’s moments are different, of course. I imagine there are those who love witnessing their children do something for the first time (especially if they do it before their brother’s kids), or start their homework without being nagged to the moment of parental expiration.

When my son started soccer, my husband couldn’t stop “just mentioning” this fact to absolute strangers while buying milk, and laid out his practice gear for him every day.

My moments come when I stumble upon my children playing together. Now, don’t get me wrong, they play together a lot.

But the day-to-day stuff involves a lot of karate-chopping and long bouts of one trying to barricade oneself from the other.

This kind of play certainly has its place, but it’s not the kind that brings a secret smile of tenderness to my lips.

The karate-chop sort of play has brought an ever-deepening bracket of lines on both sides of my mouth, sort of like a badge of motherhood honor. But parental pride? Hum. Keep reading.

The play I’m talking about has to do with a bubble of sibling camaraderie that parents are not allowed to enter, but to lurk around, angling for a good photo.

You may recognize the scenario: I will be finishing up some sort of cleaning drudgery I have been avoiding until the DEFCON 1 stage of mold, and I will suddenly realize that the house has become Too Quiet.

We all know that Too Quiet is either a sign that a) they are doing something productive or b) we’re going to have to call the contractor

again. The first option proves that I’m a die-hard optimist. I’ll hold my breath and light-foot it up the stairs, banking on the element of surprise, and peek around the corner to their rooms. And, if it’s a magical day, I’ll find them sitting together on the floor, using their cars, rocket ships, Littlest Pet Shop toys, Bat Man guys, and empty cereal boxes to create a world that doesn’t include me and isn’t meant to.

You might ask yourselves why I am taking credit for this and using it as my special source of pride as a mother. I was always determined to have two children less than two years apart because I envisioned them as playmates, allowing me to perhaps have a 10 minute shower without disruption (well, this was a naïve fancy regardless.

If I shower at 6am I have a shot at it). Many of my family and friends thought that this was a bit reckless, because of the sleeplessness, the diapers, the sleeplessness, the back-breaking labor of carrying and bending down, the sleeplessness, etc.

And actually they were right.

But all through the haze of the first few years, I hung on to my vision of sibling besties like it was my last dollar. I worked hard on it, creating elaborate games and play scenarios for them with all sorts of stuff like giant painted boxes, paper mache, and kiddie pools.

And now, when the dogs disappear for an hour and slink back decked out (in truly embarrassed splendor) in homemade Super Pooch capes and masks, I take that moment to feel like best mom material.

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Ireri Topete Interview Painting and Printmaking

by Marianne Menditto www.colibridesignvallarta.com www.galeriacolibri.blogspot.com

Marianne: The workshop fee is so reasonable, is there an additional charge for materials?

happy results

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y motivation for doing this series of artist interviews is to support the visual arts here in our community. I found a like-minded soul in Maestra Ireri Topete who teaches painting & printmaking at the Centro Cultural Cuale. I was impressed by her dedication and deep caring, her attentive manner of instruction.

Her words reflect the light within her. I hope my translations have done well by her. At least it was great exercise for my gray matter!

This interview was conducted by a combination of visits to her classroom and by e- mail.

Ireri: The students need to buy the materials that they will personally use, such as metal plates, printing paper, tools, etc. Occasionally we put in together to buy materials and some materials in common use are provided for by the workshop.

Marianne: Maestra, please tell us about the presses & other equipment here in the printshop.

Marianne: How & when did you come to teach here at the Centro Cultural Cuale?

Ireri: In 1992, I obtained a scholarship to the State Council for Culture and the Arts, given by the State of Jalisco, in the category of “Young Creator”. I was just finishing my degree in painting in the School of the Visual Arts at the University of Guadalajara. After 5 years of living in Guadalajara, I was anxious to get back to Puerto Vallarta and start my tenure of social service that was required by the terms of my scholarship.

My first proposal to the city was to give a watercolor workshop for 3 months. The workshop was so well liked that I was given the privelege of founding the “Taller Libre de Pintura” and so it was born here. I’ve been the director here for 16 years, during which time I’ve had the chance to work with a great many children, teenagers & adults, starting them off in the world of painting.

During all of those years in the workshops of the Centro Cultural Cuale, I had the opportunity to share, learn and above all to contribute to the development of teaching methods and spreading the awareness of the visual arts in my community.

From 2010 until the present, I’ve been at the helm of the “Taller de Artes Graficas, La Raya”. The graphic arts had become a very important tool in my personal development as an artist & for that reason I decided to assume directorship of the workshops in printmaking. It’s a constant challenge to bring along the project that the class is working on, so that

Marianne: So, it seems you’ve been allowed to make your own choice of artistic media for the classes.

we all like it once it’s done. The workshop itself has its own history.

It’s been working now for 13 years, with a great variety of teachers & students having passed through its doors.

Ireri: Yes, fortunately, I’ve always had the liberty to decide which programs to teach, just as I had done with the painting classes and now with the printmaking shop.

Marianne: Which printmaking techniques do you offer in “Taller La Raya”?

Ireri: We have the opportunity here to work in traditional relief techniques, such as linoleum and wood-cut block printing, and the metal plate intaglio techniques in their variations, aquatint, dry point, mezzotint, engraving & more.

Ireri: The workshop is equipped with a rolling press which has a platen (printing bed) measuring 130cm x 90 cm (52” x 36”) along with the basic tools to carve or etch print plates and to apply inks. We have a stock of materials including inks with which the students will be making their proofs & editions.

The studio also has a Lithographic press, which for the moment is in disrepair, in time we will have it refurbished & put back in service.

We also have an interest to develop a less toxic method of producing our printing plates, instead of using acids, we’ll be using electrolysis. We hope to have this working very shortly.

Marianne: How does the electrolysis work?

Ireri: It works with a solution of salts & electrical charges that attack the metal plates, so it’s considered a less toxic technique.

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Marianne: How many students can you handle per session?

of my ‘Project of Scholarship for the National system of Creators of Art’ (SNCA-CONACULTA), of which I’m currently a member.

This particular project will be ongoing for the next 3 years. At this time, I’m a part of the SNCA as an ‘Artistic Creator’. This is a distinction that the artists of México have as a stimulus for creation.

It’s very difficult to gain access to this program & I’m very fortunate to have been granted this honor to support my work consistently during the last 20 years.

Ireri: The workspace is not very large, so we have a nice long table outside on the covered patio that we use for designing & developing the pieces. The interior space is used as the printing area. Using this arrangement, we can average 10 to 12 people at the same time, just not in the same space.

Marianne: Do you work on your own projects during the workshops as a way of teaching the techniques?

Ireri: Sometimes I work on my own projects, but not very often.

The way I like to teach is by giving some demonstrations & then to dedicate personal attention to each student. I go from one to another attending to the needs of each according to their own projects. I prefer to work in my own studio at home, so that I’m not distracted by my students needs.

Marianne: Do you assign subject matter to your students?

Ireri: I enjoy influencing the students on technical matters, but each student has complete liberty to choose their own ideas & projects. Sometimes we’ll develop a special project all together, under a suggested theme, just as we’re doing now, working on a project called “La Calaca Press”, an international exchange.

Marianne: Oh, that sounds interesting, tell us more about that!

Ireri: “La Calaca Press Proyecto” is an international exchange of graphic works. The call for artists is organized by the Nicaraguan artist Carlos Barberena, who is now living in Chicago. This is the third year that printmakers from around the world have been called to participate. We, as the group “Taller La Raya”, have sent 14 editions, all produced by the workshop participants. In total, we’ve sent in 210 images & will receive 168 in return, or 12 images per participant. Before we hand them out, we’ll be presenting the entire collection in an exhibition to coincide with Dia de los Muertos. This year “La Calaca Press” joins with the world & México in homage to José Guadalupe Posada, at 100 years since his death. 2013 has

Marianne: Maestra, thank you for your insightful words & for sharing your beautiful world with us. Is there anything you’d like to add?

been declared the national “Year of Posada” in México. Posada, of course, is the artist/author of “La Catrina” and recognized for his graphic works as the most popular engraver in the history of Mexican art. To sum it up, “La Calaca Press” is an international event that we are very pleased to participate in, as the work produced by our little studio “La Raya” will be brought to many diverse locations worldwide.

Marianne: How has teaching influenced your own artistic evolution?

Ireri: My personal development has been constant. I always

love to learn, exchange feedback and share. This has given me the opportunity to work on many diverse projects and workshops in México. Additionally, my work has taken off on an international level as well, so I’m happy & motivated to follow my path. There have been so many experiences over the years which have permitted me to do what I love... produce & teach. I’ve had the opportunity to come to know so very many coworkers & teachers.

Shortly now, I’ll be taking a trip to Serbia on an artistic adventure. I’m going to stay 10 days in the monastery Studenica, built in the 12th century. I’ll be painting

there, I’m so happy & excited! The latest of my projects have been done outside of México. I’ve had such great opportunities to exhibit in other countries, in the U.S., Canada, Holland, Spain, Japan, S. America & Serbia. All this has kept me quite active & in a constant state of evolution.

Marianne: How exciting...we’ll be looking forward to your paintings! Are you continuing with your series of Artist Books?

Ireri: Yes, right now, I’m working on the next one, entitled ”De Sol, Agua y Sal”...a visual record of life in ‘el Puerto’. This work forms part

Ireri: I will always be glad to welcome all those interested in the Arts to join in any of our artistic workshops. I feel that the Arts are an important part of the development of humanity. Vallarta is so fortunate to have our Cultural Center in this tranquil & beautiful setting here on the Isla del Rio Cuale. I’m so happy that here in Puerto Vallarta, we have the vision to bring the community a cultural project that is a counterpoint to the accelerated & disordered growth we’re experiencing.

I believe in Culture & the Arts as a medium for recognition of identity & creativity. Lastly, I hope that in Vallarta we have the vision & sensitivity to inspire & propel Culture & the Arts, on behalf of all those involved, including myself with my little grain of sand.

To see Ireri’s work http://www. ireritopete.blogspot.com

Real estate 10

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Friday Oct 11 - 17, 2013

Buying a Pre-Construction Property in Puerto Vallarta: What the Savvy Investor Needs to Know

By Miguel Fernandez miguel@g3mex.com www.g3mex.com and pvlifestyle.com

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e’ve seen a resurgence of pre-construction offerings all around the Bay of Banderas. Many of these projects and developments offer some very interesting pre-construction prices for buyers.

As a rule, pre-construction projects will afford you the opportunity to purchase property at lower than market value prices, which is always appealing. But how secure is it? You ask yourself, “What if something happens with the funding during construction, and the project is never completed?” Or, what if, as in a few cases, there is a zoning problem and it’s tied up in litigation, and you are not able to title your property correctly? There are a number of things that you may need to consider when purchasing pre-construction properties.

That’s why it’s essential that you do a lot of research prior to signing a purchase sale agreement. AND (we can’t emphasize this enough) another great reason why you should work with a seasoned real estate agent who knows how to research the appropriate information, and either knows the developer, or has sold his product in the past.

Look Closely at the Reputation of the Developer • Check that the Mexico real estate developer has a good reputation and track record. Is the developer backed by a realistic marketing plan and other reputable companies?

• Are there other projects that the developer has constructed?

• Have people had issues with the developer? If so, is there a

guarantee that they are improving their business practices?

• Does the agent that you’re working with have experience or past sales with the developer?

The internet is an invaluable resource for looking at other projects from the developer. Often times you can get the real story from previous investors to find out what their experience has been.

You may even look into contacting someone who is living in a completed development. Most importantly, talk frankly to your agent. G3MEX, like other agencies, will want to you feel satisfied with your investment. Agents stake their reputation on their client’s long term satisfaction.

Agencies also have close working relationships with lawyers and notaries, which gives them the inside track on what is going on in the market. Vallarta-Nayarit is small, so people will know quickly who is reputable and who is acting in the best interest of their clients or investors.

Purchase Agreement Carefully review the purchase agreement with your broker and lawyer and look for plans and specifications for your particular unit and the common areas, construction calendar and penalty clause in case of non-compliance.

Also, look closely at the rules and regulations for the condominium construction and payment sche-

dule. If these items are included in the contract, you as the buyer are more protected in the case of non-compliance, and they indicate a stronger dedication from the developer. It is also very important that you ask how far along establishment of the condo regime is in the project.

This will give you a sense of the professionalism and efficiency the developer, and of how quickly the project is progressing.

Amenities and finishes If you have been promised specific amenities, also ensure that they are included in the contract, with all relevant details. If they aren’t in the contract, chances are they’re not included. It is also not a bad idea for the developer to include the type and quality of finishes of the condo/house, e.g., appliances, floors, sinks, etc. And, if possible, get the makes and models of these items. Most contracts have a clause which allows the developers to change these and also the distribution and size of the unit (which will be indicated in the condo regime). It’s VERY important that this information be as specific and clear as possible.

Negotiation It is entirely fair to make a reasonable offer, and negotiate points on the contract, including amenities, price, payment schedule, discounts, etc. Again, just be sure that they are included in the contract!

Is There a Payment Schedule?

Purchasing a pre-construction property requires that you analyze the amount of risk you wish to assume. Frequently people think that re-sales are a better investment in a down economy, but, seasoned investors and realtors understand that managing a strict payment schedule with a

pre-construction investment is key.

• Does the seller permit payments to go into escrow?

• Are payments to be based on construction milestones?

• How much money is requested at the beginning of the construction period and how much at the back end?

• At what point do you receive the title?

• To take this to another level, you may also request a completion bond, which will be paid by you to guarantee the delivery of the finished product or the reimbursement of your payments. The cost associated with this depends on the way the developer is able to present the information to the company that offers the bond.

Can You Use Financing for a Pre-Construction Investment?

Frequently pre-construction projects offer payment plans running the course of the construction process, which translates into interest-free short-term financing. This is great for people who don’t have the entire dollar amount up front, and need time to

raise funds. Some big developers also offer in-house short-term financing plans once the physical delivery has been realized.

For bank financing, and if you are a non-Mexican, pre-construction properties might have some limitations-- compared with a resale. Banks can’t offer financing services unless a property title exists (though, there are some exceptions).

Bear in mind that with a pre-construction project many developers will not usually obtain an individual title until 90%-95% completion.

In the end, purchasing Mexican properties in the pre-construction phase is ideal for you as an investor, as you are given access to excellent properties for considerably discounted prices; provided with an “automatic” appreciation on the property as soon as the project is consolidated, titled and working to good standards; and able to receive the healthy appreciation seen in many of Mexico’s leading tourist areas, such as Puerto Vallarta and the Riviera Nayarit.

Banderas Bay Butterfies

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by Moralea Milne

White Peacock (Anartia jatrophae) The white peacock was the first butterfly I ever photographed. At the time I wasn’t even interested in butterflies, one just landed a few feet from me and stayed put while I clicked a single shot on one of the first digital Kodak cameras. It was a case of beginner’s luck; no butterfly photo has ever been that simple again.

The white peacock is another common

butterfly that can be found year round throughout Mexico, except for the drier central areas. It uses many flower families as host plants for its caterpillars, including plants in the verbena family, wild Mexican petunia, and water hyssop (Bacopa). The resulting caterpillars are black with branched spines.

Dry season butterflies are larger and paler than the wet season forms.

Orchid Conservatory coming to Puerto Vallarta The Puerto Vallarta Botanical Gardens are lining up an ambitious ecotourism project for the conservation of Mexican orchids.

Slated to be an investment of approximately $400,000, it received a kick start from a generous U.S. benefactor who will match dollar for dollar up to $100,000 from now through December 31, 2013.

Additional fund raising efforts will follow.

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NATURE

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Neil Gerlowski, the Botanical Gardens’ Executive Director, says that this project will serve as a live museum and classroom for students of all ages.

It will also work towards the conservation of orchids which are now being illegally harvested in nature, resulting in the loss of an extensive variety of orchids due to contraband.

The Conservatory will allow orchid lovers a place to appreciate and purchase an orchid without bringing harm to the ecosystem.

TOMATELO

A PECHO

it’s important that you know

TOMATELO

A PECHO

it’s important that you know

Join us in the fight against breast cancer If you are over 40 and still have not got your mammogram.

Book your appointment with the most professional team!

Av. Francisco Villa 1459, Los Sauces Tel. 224 8622 rp_diagnostik@outlook.com * www.div.com.mx

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Friday Oct 11 - 17, 2013

CAPOMO PARAISO ENCORE ADVENTURE PARK

EL SET

VALLARTA ZOO TEQUILERA MAMA LUCIA LA CASA DE LA IGUANA

OUTDOOR VALLARTA ADVENTURE

TEQUILERA VALLARTA DON CHENDO BOTANICAL GARDENS

EL INDIO CANOPY CANOPY LAS JUNTAS Y LOS VERANOS

Layla´s Restaurant

NATURE 14

Friday Oct 11 - 17, 2013

The Monarch Experience Written and photos

By Jim Thorsell

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s the summer heat winds down and we look forward to the coming ‘snowbird migration’ in Mexico one of nature’s greatest migrations has already begun.

Arriving in mid-November every year, up to one billion Monarchs arrive and cover the trees in a blanket of orange and black. During the cooler winter months the insects tend to mostly cling to the tree branches but on sunny days and in the last month before they leave in mid-April, they swarm in a colorful and magical mass through the air.

From southern Canada it takes

four successive generations of Monarch butterflies to complete the migratory cycle through to the high forests of Michoacan State in central Mexico. How the surviving generations find there way is one of the great mysteries of nature.

To view this natural spectacle visitors need to hike or ride horses two-three km up to the high ridges of the biosphere reserve (2400 M /8000 feet). Tours and guides are found in the local villages of Zitacuaro and Anganguelo or more distantly from the city of Morelia. Locally here in Puerto

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Vallarta there are a number of tour operators that offer Monarch Tours.

The Monarch Butterfly Monarch butterflies are not able to survive the cold winters of most of North America so they migrate south and west each autumn to escape the cold weather. The monarch migration usually starts in about October of each year, but can start earlier if the weather turns cold sooner.

The monarch butterflies will spend their winter hibernation in Mexico and some parts of Southern California where it is warm all year long. If the monarch

will migrate to Mexico and hibernate in oyamel fir trees. If the monarch butterfly lives west of the Rocky Mountains, then it will hibernate in and around Pacific Grove, California in eucalyptus trees.

Monarch butterflies use the very same trees each and every year when they migrate, despite the fact that they aren’t the same butterflies that were there last year. These are the new fourth generation monarch butterflies, so how do they know which trees

Monarchs use the exact same trees each year when they migrate, despite the fact that they aren’t the same butterflies that were there the previous year. lives in the Eastern states, usually east of the Rocky Mountains, it

plants are plentiful.

Monarch butterflies only lay their eggs on milkweed, and caterpillars only eat milkweed.

But like many environmental issues, milkweed is disappearing for various reasons. We often remove milkweed from our own yards because it doesn’t smell very good or we think it is a weed.

But what we need to realize is that monarch butterflies need the milkweed in order to survive, and the monarch butterfly population is dwindling. Conservationists have created many projects to protect Monarch butterfly, most often through permission to use land for conservation.

Some work with government agencies and local people to establish land protection and educate people about helping Monarchs. You can visit the Michoacan Reforestation and Habitat Protection Fund, which is a project to help balance the needs of Monarchs with the needs of people who live where the butterflies like to spend the winter.

For more information visit: http://www.monarchbutterflyfund. org Additional material by http:// www.monarch-butterfly.com

Monarch butterflies are the only insect that migrates to a warmer climate that is 2,500 miles away each year.

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are the right ones to hibernate in?

The Monarch butterfly migrates for 2 reasons. They cannot withstand freezing weather in the northern and central continental climates in the winter. Also, the larval food plants do not grow in their winter overwintering sites, so the spring generation must fly back north to places where the

SPORTS

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Friday Oct 11 - 17, 2013

Reggie Jackson is Mr. October, I don’t know of any Mr. Augusts or Seùor Febreros

By Joel Hansen ell, I am back. I know that all four of my loyal readers have been holding their breath waiting for my mostly rambling, mostly pointless, take on the sporting world.

If you turned to this page hoping to read your horoscope, only to be disappointed with my return I can tell you that your moon is in the first half of Jupiter and that you will spend the next couple minutes reading something that will probably confuse you and create a sense of slight unsettling.

In matters of money it is now a good time to invest a few pesos with Grupo Modelo to help ease you through this troubling time.

October has always been my favourite month of the year. In my opinion there isn't a better month

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for sports. The NFL is at the quarter mark and unless you are a Jacksonville Jaguars fan your team is still most likely in it.

Hockey and basketball are just kicking off the regular season and baseball's long, slow grind has finally reached the playoffs.

I love playoff baseball. I do not think that any other sport can come close to the in-game drama. The one-on-one battle between pitcher and batter; how much sway and influence the manager has over the game with each and every decision. No other sport can compare.

In hockey, for example, what can a coach do to influence the actual outcome?

Nothing really. He can tell Sidney Crosby to go score a goal

or Luongo to make a key save, but ultimately it is up to the player to do it. In basketball? Give the ball to Kobe and get out of the way, even I can coach that.

In baseball, you can send the runner, switch pitchers, hit and run, play percentages.

Now of course the player needs to execute, but it is based directly on what the manager puts into play. There is so much strategy going into every pitch, every at bat, then add to the fact that hitting a 95 mile an hour cut fast ball is nearly impossible it makes for an intense, unique viewing experience.

Life has borrowed an old cliche about being down to your last out in the bottom of the ninth and then hitting the game winning

home run. It is used because it is such a dramatic turn of events that only baseball can deliver, maybe sudden death overtime in hockey can deliver the same instant drama, but that wasn't turned into a cliche so I will stick with baseball.

This leads me back to my love of October which is even closer to my heart now that I live in Mexico full time. October signifies the first month of noticeably cooler weather after the stifling summer; the return of the cruise ships; the first of the snowbirds and the first of the tourists.

As a local, I finally get to see some different faces at the bar.

Out on the malecon the timeshare guys don't have to ask me with that hopeful desperation

if I might finally be interested in playing the game, even though they know me and know that I am decidedly not interested.

October means I get to spend my days (like last Sunday), waking up and making my way to Que Pasa, where I have my usual breakfast of all you can eat pancakes, watched my beloved Eagles crush the vile Giants, the St. Louis Cardinals scuffle against the Pirates and finally the Canucks beat the Flames, then topped it all off with one of the best burgers in PV. It's days like that, that make me love October.

You can find me most of the time at Que Pasa, where I will buy you a beer and bore you with my point of view.

Friday Oct 11 - 17, 2013

riviera nayarit 16

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Campamento Tortuguero: “Sayulita! This is a We Thing!”

By Riley Hunter

Originally published on http:// news.sayulitalife.com

E

l Sayulero has covered Campamento Tortuguero Sayulita (CTS) before, but we continue to be amazed

by Sayulita’s caring community, progressive people, and the awesome organizations that strive to protect Sayulita and her nature for the betterment of our little pueblo! We know that the natural environment and the beauty of Sayulita is what drew most of us here. It is also what keeps vacationers visiting our beautiful beaches and helps local business, vacation rentals, and families flourish.

El Sayulero set out to interview CTS volunteers, and we found a great one. Kirsten Michel is a long-time activist and friend of all earthly beings and natures creations! Kirsten came to Sayulita after seeing El Sayulero’s water bowl article that SayulitAnimals wrote to help Sayulita’s strays. She is an advocate for doing things “for a loving, not a living,” and that is how she has lived her impressive life of protecting our environment and its inhabitants. She loudly and proudly sings the praises of CTS and the volunteers who have done and continue to do a wonderful job of turtle egg protection as well as delicate augmentation of the turtle’s reproductive success.

Kirsten would want us to get to the point on how the community can help and get involved with Campamento Tortuguero, so we will get to that first! These are her words on how to most effectively help the efforts of CTS while enjoying yourself, learning, and experiencing nature and life!

There are many ways to partici-

pate. Of course funds for supplies can always help tremendously, but also people’s support and energy is priceless. This is a ‘we thing’; a community effort. Fun for all ages!

I have seen older folks, guys from the bar, surfers, and people of all ages fall in love and awe with these baby turtles. It is the great age equalizer! Around baby turtles, everyone is an excited, google-eyed, five-year-old!

• It’s turtle season! Volunteer your support or time now! (AugOct is the highest time for nesting and births). Lots of help and support needed now.

• 7:30 pm: offer to volunteer (officially or unofficially). Arrive at a big white flag on beach at 7:30 and ask an “official” CTS Volunteer how you can help! Things like cleaning the beach of plastics, clearing pathways for babies to walk, putting up protection lines, anything will help!

• 8:00 pm: Everyone’s favorite!

Come down to beach for baby turtle release at the white flag or in front of CTS, which is right next to La Terrazola! We have to move locations often because other creatures that are natural preda-

tors to baby sea turtles are very smart! The birds and fish learn quickly where we release the baby turtles, so we have to vary the location often. Remember, we don’t allow dogs or flash.

Dogs might be tempted for a little sea turtle snack, and the baby turtles are actually confused by manmade light and unfortunately this is part of the reason why only 1% of sea turtles survive to adulthood. They use the light of the moon to guide them to the ocean, and if there are camera flashes, flashlights, or even restaurant lights on near them, they might have trouble getting to the beach.

• 11:00pm – 4:00am, 6:00am – 8:00am: We walk the entire Sayuilta Beach with trained volunteer/patrol people and learn all you can about how to help turtles!

How to track and locate markings, nests, and mother turtles. You’ll be fortunate enough to witness the birthing process and help record data, collect eggs, and to bury the eggs safely in the CTS nesting ground! You’ll learn about statistics of survival, how to properly mark nests in the camp, how to be a positive and protective presence

on the beach to ward off poachers and much more!

• Anytime: Reduce, reuse, recycle! Any time of the day and anywhere you can always find ways to cut down on use of plastics and disposable products.

By using less and consuming less, there will be less trash that reaches our collective beaches and ocean! Like Woodsy Owl always said, ”Give a Hoot, Don’t Pollute!”

• Support and Cheer on Local Volunteers - “Like” their page on Facebook and go up to a volunteer and mention that you appreciate the work they are doing. It really makes it worthwhile to volunteers when someone from the community takes a moment out of their day to say, “Good job turtle friends!” Remember we are all doing this for a loving not a living.

El Sayulero learned many things during our interview, e.g., you must wash your hands in a sand bath before touching baby turtles, around 1% of baby turtles survive to adulthood, they are extremely sensitive to manmade light and it can often cause them

lose their path to the shore (as they naturally rely on the moon as a guide), sea turtles have been alive for more than 100 million years, with 10 years of conservation you will generally see an increase in population (as they are seeing in San Pancho), and many other amazing facts. However, the most impressive was that biologist and CTS volunteer Alejandra has made CTS a registered organization with the Mexican government as well as Red Tortugero AC. This further helps the effort in the region to protect these endangered species!

Whether a vacationer or resident, do something different with your time in Sayulita. Learn something new and spend time with these beautiful aquatic creatures.

It is something we are very fortunate to be able to experience in life. Also, pack some extra batteries, garbage bags, ponchos, or anything to help out CTS! Chances are, you will make some new turtle and human friends!

Both the sea turtles and all those involved with Campamento Tortuguero Sayulita are quite amazing creatures indeed.

RIVIERA NAYARIT

www.vallartatribune.com

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Friday Oct 11 - 17, 2013

Fun on the Riviera Nayarit

By Cat Morgan www.rivieranayaritfun.com

Two Fishing Tournaments This October!

Two fishing tournaments are scheduled this October. First, this weekend, will be the La Cruz de Huanacasxtle Fishing Tournament. Tepic’s Sport Fishing Club is hosting and organizing the 2nd International Fishing Tournament in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, from October 9-13, 2013.

There is more than $300,000 usd of prizes for the winners of this tournament. In the first International Sport Fishing Tournament, the number of participating vessels for attendance was a record with a total of fifty boats entered, an amount that had not been recorded in previous tournaments.

It all starts on Wednesday, October 9th with the welcoming day, and ending on Sunday, October 13th for the last day of

fishing and the closing ceremonies. There is sure to be a big crowd and plenty of partying!

Please visit http://www.alllacruz.com/2nd-international-fishing-tournament-la-cruz-mexico for the entire schedule of events for the 2nd Annual International Sport Fishing Tournament in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle.

Lo De Marcos Surf Fishing Tournament This fishing tournament is being put on by the Club de Pesca de Orilla Surf Fishing Tepic A. C. on the 26th and 27th of October in beautiful Lo de Marcos, located about 10 minutes north of San Pancho on the 200 road.

Entry fee is 200 pesos and includes a shirt to the first 100 registrants.

Pretty much whatever bites for the largest fish, all fishing is from the beach. Bait is not allowed!

Last year the prizes were 5000 peso and fishing rods.

It starts at 2:00am on October 26th. Up and out early!!! The deadline for registration is 10 seconds before it starts. Women are encouraged to participate.

Also, if you need a rod and reel, stop by Coco Loco Sports & Outdoors located on Main Street in Lo de Marcos, who are also helping to promote this event. For more information please call (311) 132-7352 or (311) 122-9141.

Thanks for reading, and see

you on the beach!

Cat Morgan is the owner of the Riviera Nayarit Fun Regional Network. Contact her at Cat@

RivieraNayaritFun.com with any questions, comments or Riviera Nayarit news.

A Taste of La Cruz is Accepting Registrations T he Marina Riviera Nayarit in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle has officially opened registration for the 3rd Annual TASTE OF LA CRUZ to be held Saturday January 18, 2014 on the Malecon of the La Cruz Marina and with live music in the central Xiriki Amphitheater.

Entrepreneurs, businesses, service providers, restaurants and artists who wish to participate in this yearly fair/expo where they can promote and sell their services and goods now have advance notice to better schedule high season activities. Last year’s registration didn’t open until late November and many businesses and restaurants already had prior commitments. Event organizers want to give potential exhibitors plenty of flexibility in their high season scheduling but stressed that the spaces on the Marina Malecon will be assigned in the order that they are paid.

Last year TASTE OF LA CRUZ attracted participants from throughout the Bahia de Banderas and from as far away as Guadalajara, Tepic and San Sebastian. This year’s sponsor/exhibitors are: Snowbird Construction Mgm’t.

(La Cruz), A Hand In The Kitchen (Bucerias), Puerto Bahia (La Cruz), Los Arroyos Verdes(Bucerias), Café des Artistes (Puerto Vallarta/Punta de Mita), CMQ Group (Puerto Vallarta), Frascati Restaurant (La Cruz) and Oso’s Oyster Bar & Fish Market Restaurant (La Cruz). The Nayarit Convention and Visitors Bureau’s official promotional entity, RIVIERA NAYARIT is lending its full support to the January event.

Anyone wishing to register or obtain further information can contact event organizers at landon@tasteoflacruz, visit the website athttp://www.tasteoflacruz.com/ or phone 322-116-4731 or 329-295-5534.

www.vallartatribune.com

EVENTS

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Friday Oct 11 - 17, 2013

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

La Bodeguita Del Medio Paseo Diaz Ordaz 858, Malecon” 322.223.1583 Tu-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 329.298.0140 Wed-Mon 9:00 am 10:00 pm India Gate Allende 124 Centro 322.223.2424 Mon-Sat 3:00 pm 11:00 pm The River Café Isla del Rio Cuale Local4 Centro 322.223.0788

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

Beboteros Diaz Ordaz 565 Malecon 322.113.0099 Café Roma Encino 287 Centro Mon-Sun 10:pm -3:00 am Murphy’s Irish Pub Morelos 484 Altos 1, Centro 322.113.0373 Philo’s Delfin15, La Cruz de Huanacaxle”329.295.5068 Thu-Sat 8:30 pm Barcelona Tapas Matamoros esq 31 de Octubre Centro 322.223.0831

El Dorado Pulpito # 102, Playa los Muertos”322.222.4124

Que? Pasa Aquiles Serdan 625, Col Emiliano Zapata 322.223.4006

CONFERENCES First International Congress of Psycology October 16 to 18 Riviera Nayarit, México MARIVAL RESORT III International Congress of Health October 18 to 20, 2013 Puerto Vallarta, México Hotel Holiday Inn Puerto Vallarta

ArtWalk October 30, 2013 May 28, 2014 www.vallartaartwalk.com

October 17 Vallarta Garden Club Meeting Bob Price will speak on Beautification in the Current Political Climate of P.V. Paradise Community Center at 11 a.m.

October 17-20 Vallarta-Nayarit Gastronomica 2013 A gourmet weekend bringing together some of the world’s best chefs, sommeliers and gastronomy experts. Held at various locations around the bay. More information is online at vallartanayaritgastronomica.com November 14 Act II kick-off with A Chorus Line Act II Entertainment’s kicks of the season with its newest produc-

tion, A Chorus Line, opening November 14th.

November 14-17 Engage Mexico Social Media Conference #5 Held at the Puerto Vallarta Sheraton Engage Mexico is a social media conference with experienced International Speakers.

November 14-23 XIX Festival Gourmet International Thirty top level chefs arrive in Puerto Vallarta from different cities around Mexico and the world to participate.

There will be special happenings all week long, including

the opening at the Los Muertos Beach Pier, and the farewell at the St. Regis and Café des Artistes Punta Mita.

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EVENTS

Friday Oct 11 - 17, 2013

www.vallartatribune.com

CLASSIFIEDS

IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS Emergency Phone Numbers The police station or the fire department is 060. For Non-Emergency calls, dial (322) 290-0507 for the Police Dep & (322) 224-7701 for the Fire Department.

Ambulance Services Red Cross Ambulance: 222-1533 Global Ambulance: 226-1014

Hospitals Ameri-Med Hospital: 226-2080 Cornerstone Hospital: 224-9400 San Javier Hospital: 226-1010 Medasist Hospital: 223-0444 C.M.Q. Hospital: 223-1919 I.M.S.S. Hospital: 224-3838 Regional Hospital: 224-4000

UROLOGIST Dr. Pedro López Cueto

Other Important Phone Numbers American Consulate: (322)222-0069 or 01-333-268-2145 Canadian Consulate: (322) 293-0098 Motor Vehicle Dept: 224-8484 Consumer Protection (PROFECO): 225-0000 Immigration Office: 221-1380 National Telegraph: 224-7970 Electric Company (CFE): 071 Water Company (SEAPAL): 223-1516 Municipal Services: 223-2500 Tourist Protection: 223-2500 Ministerio Publico: 222-1762 Animal Protection: 221-0078 Wake-Up Service: 031

Tel. (322) 22 5 11 83 www.anku.com.mx

Free Classified - Garage Sales - Lost and Found - Charity Events - Important Anouncements

Emergency Phone for Sayulita Dial 066 from any standard land line. Dial 080 from Mexican cell phones. To report suspicious activity in Sayulita, please dial 045-322-141-5994.

Emergency Numbers for Bucerias & La Cruz Numbers for the Police Department in case of emergency are 291-0049 and 291-0666.

General emergency number: 066 Police, Bucerias & La Cruz: 298-1020 Civil Protection (Fire, Ambulance): 291-0295 Ambulance, Santa Rosa Clinic: 298-0157

Now where can I find?...

One-Stop Vallarta Shopping Directory

I

first stumbled across the Vallarta Shopping Directory while trying to source some very specific tiles and aside from the one shop I was familiar with in Old Town, I had no idea how to go about finding other shops that might carry the hand-painted Loteria tiles I’ve begun collecting.

While I didn’t find any local shops with those particular tiles, it did give me the opportunity to check out many other wonderful shops around the city.

So if you don’t know about it, now you do; the Vallarta Shopping

Directory. It is a very complete and always up-to-date online directory and simple to navigate.

You will find the major boutiques, jewelry stores, leather stores, organic and other food products, beauty shops and spas, restaurants and cafes, real estate offices, art and craft galleries, interior décor, consignment stores, sports equipment, boutique hotels, drug stores and nutrition, and services.

As a bonus they have just added a page for Bucerias, and other Nayarit locations.

Please recommend this direc-

tory to your friends who are planning a trip to Vallarta so they can find Vallarta´s favorite spots.

New locations are continually being listed, so you can keep up with the latest new places to shop

and eat.

You can check it out at http:// Va l l a r t a s h o p p i n g d i r e c t o r y. blogspot.com and also like their page on Facebook/Vallarta Shopping Directory.

Charities

Friday Oct 11 - 17, 2013

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,

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Non-Profit and Charitable Organizations abandoned, disadvantaged or vulnerable children.- Contact: Luz Aurora Arredondo at 221-1908, Rita Millan (322) 141-6974. casamaximocornejo@gmail.com

Discapacitados de Vallarta, A.C. (DIVAC) association of handicapped individuals dedicated to helping one another. - Contact: Ivan Applegate at 221-5153.

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

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

Clinica de Rehabilitación Santa Barbara - Rehabilitation of the handicapped. Contact: Laura Lopez Portillo Rodriguez at 224-2754.

Grupo Ecológico de Puerto Vallarta, Contact: Arq. Luz del Carmen Pérez Alvarez cayro_13@ hotmail.com /grupoecologico.com

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

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 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 PEACEAnimals - Free mobile spay/neuter clinic operating 48 weeks a year, primarily in Puerto Vallarta. 90-100 cats and dogs sterilized weekly, doing the greatest good for the greatest number of animals. 501 (c) (3) status with tax-deductible status in Canada and Mexico. www.peaceanimals.org Pro Biblioteca de Vallarta Raises funds for Los Mangos Public Library. Tax-deductible receipts for Mexico and USA. Contacts: Ricardo Murrieta at 224-9966 or Jimmie Ellis at 222-1478.

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

Puerto Vallarta Garden Club: Beautify and protecting the environment. Open to all. Mtgs held at Paradise Community Center, third Thursday every month at 11am from October to May. www.vallartagardenclub.com PuRR Project - A no-kill cat shelter with approx. 250 resident felines living in a natural environment, un-caged, kittens in the Kitten Nursery, on-site clinic with daily veterinarian services. www.purrproject.com Refugio Infantil Santa Esperanza- Shelter for Children.

Donations are tax-deductible in Canada and the U.S. Contact: Madre Mari at 222-7857 or Sudy Coy at 222-5765. www.ccshf.ca Roma’s Kids - Educate the children of the Volcanes and surrounding area, to provide them with the skills necessary to become employable by the major industry here in Puerto Vallarta – tourism: Math, English and computer

programs a priority. 100% goes to the kids. www.kids.romamexico.com The International Friendship Club (IFC) - A registered charitable organization in Mexico listed as Club Internacional de la Amistad de Puerto Vallarta A.C. The IFC supports the Cleft Palate Surgery Program & families in need. Funds are raised through Membership & Home Tours. 322-222-5466. www.ifcvallarta. com. ifcvallarta@gmail.com.

Toys for Tots Vallarta - Is a non-profit organization that is celebrating 15 years in Puerto Vallarta. Distributes toys and constructs playgrounds for less-advantaged kids in the Puerto Vallarta area during the Christmas holiday period. Contact: Jerry Lafferty 322 221 6156 or Lourdes Bizarro lourdes.bizarro@marriotthotels.com.

SPCA PV – Provides private vet costs for rescued animals, 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.

Vallarta Saludable (Healthy) - Preventing a collapse of Mexico’s healthcare system by cutting Puerto Vallarta’s diabetes costs in half through organics, stevias, cooking workshops, serums reversing dialysis and reality show. Donations NAOTF.org U.S. tax deductible, Suzy Chaffee suzynativevoices@aol.com

HOROSCOPE

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Horoscope Aries

Surprising information will reach your ears when Mercury is quincunx Uranus in Aries on Tuesday. This nugget of news will rock your world! Clear out the clutter in your home on Wednesday. It’s time to toss aside items that aren’t wanted or needed. Be very discreet on Thursday. Think carefully before sharing your deepest secrets with another. Create a new goal list on Sunday. Remember, you’ve evolved over the years. Don’t waste your energy in pursuit of outdated ambitions.

Taurus Relationship issues could arise on Monday. A lover might want more personal space.

Your vitality could hit a low point on Tuesday. A good night’s sleep may be just what the doctor ordered. Confusion could boggle your mind when your ruler Venus squares Neptune on Thursday.

Strive to think clearly. An associate may ask you for a loan on Saturday. Keep a firm grip on your wallet! Don’t fall for any financial sob stories this weekend.

Gemini A rival will challenge you when Venus enters your zone of competitors on Monday. Call on your smarts to outwit any opponent. Your agenda may change without warning on Tuesday. Try to go with the flow as much as possible. Rejuvenate your lifestyle on Friday. Quit a bad habit and walk on the path of wellness.

A new companion will come into your life on Sunday. This person will be very clever! He or she will expand your mental horizons.

Cancer Celebrate the simple joys of living on Tuesday. Watch the beauty of the sky at sunrise and sunset. You’ll be tempted to overindulge your appetites when the Moon opposes Jupiter in Cancer on Friday.

Remember, too much ice cream will add inches to your waistline! A partner could be in a quarrelsome mood on Saturday. Don’t waste your breath bickering over unimportant matters. A lost item will be returned to you on Sunday.

LEO A friend may ask you to invest in a financial scheme on Tuesday. Only put

Friday Oct 11 - 17, 2013

KEY DISTRIBUTION POINTS

in money you can afford to lose.

You’ll be very cheerful when the Moon sextiles your ruler Sun on Wednesday. The smile on your face will inspire others to grin.

The boss could increase your workload on Friday. This person knows you’ll plow through the projects quickly! Don’t rush to judgment on Saturday. You don’t have all the facts regarding a particular situation.

Virgo Household repairs may be needed on Tuesday. A leaky faucet will demand that you brush up on your plumbing skills. Try not to worry on Thursday. Your fears are unfounded regarding a certain issue. A flash of insight will zing into your brain when the Moon sextiles your ruler Mercury on Friday. Use your newfound wisdom to resolve a difficult dilemma. Be blunt with a loved one on Sunday. This individual won’t get the message unless you speak plainly.

Libra Generate good karma on Monday.

Think about devoting your time to a worthy cause. A colleague may be up to no good on Tuesday.

Don’t get involved in the malicious games this individual plays. Your emotions will hit a new level of intensity on Friday. Your heart will lead your head in all life circumstances. Extravagance will be your middle name when the Sun in Libra squares Jupiter on Saturday.

It wouldn’t be a good idea to hit the shopping mall.

Scorpio Don’t follow the crowd on Monday. It’s important to be yourself regardless of what others think. Catalog the pros and cons of a lover’s behavior when Mercury conjuncts Saturn in Scorpio on Tuesday. If the minus list is long, hit the delete button on the relationship. A friend will ask for your advice on Friday, but this person might need professional guidance. Search for a moment of Zen on Sunday. Find a quiet nook in which to unwind this weekend.

Sagittarius Update your wardrobe when Venus enters Sagittarius on Monday.

It’s a great time to overhaul your image. Pay close attention to detail on Wednesday. A careless error will prove to be very costly

later. You’ll possess a new sense of boldness on Thursday. No one will be allowed to intimidate you!

Don’t procrastinate on Saturday.

A certain matter requires that you take quick action or the boat will sail without you. A wish may finally come true on Sunday.

Capricorn Forgive yourself for a past mistake on Tuesday - you’re only human. It’s time to move on both mentally and emotionally. Determination is the key to your success on Wednesday. If you keep trying, you’ll finally win the prize! Be careful of your movements when the Moon in Capricorn squares Uranus on Friday. Look both ways before crossing a busy street. You may feel under a lot of pressure on Saturday. Practice deep breathing if you get stressed out this weekend.

Aquarius

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 Tourist Offices: • Rio Cuale • Main Plaza • Lazaro Cardenas Park American Consulate Canadian Consulate Old Town & Centro Paradise Community Centre Freddy Tucan Restaurant Los Mercados Timothy Real Estate Page in the Sun

Hotel Zone Villa del Palmar - Vallarta Marina RE/MAX Marina Café Cup Casa Velas Nuevo Vallarta Paradise Village La Estancia Vallarta Adventures Bucerias DeCameron Resort Elements Realty Yo-Yo Mo’s Sports Bar La Cruz de Huanacaxtle Oso’s Restaurant Philos Realty Ikuai Restaurant

PURR PROJECT FEATURED FELINE

You may undergo a life-altering experience on Tuesday. This event will change your view of the world. A mentor will come your way on Thursday.

This person will help you achieve a cherished goal. Your sixth sense will kick up a notch when the Moon conjuncts Pluto in your intuition sector on Friday. Follow your gut instincts in all circumstances.

Strut your stuff before others on Sunday. You’ll have an abundance of the “wow” factor this weekend.

Pisces A wonderful new career opportunity will appear on Monday. You may find your dream job! Don’t believe everything that you hear when the Moon squares Neptune in Pisces on Tuesday. A friend may inadvertently pass on false gossip. You may feel pulled in two different directions on Thursday. Choosing the right path to walk will prove difficult. A plan may hit a snag on Saturday. It might be wise to go back to the drawing board.

Do you have an event you’d like to promote to the readers of the Vallarta Tribune?

Send your events to editor@vallartatribune.com

SPCA de PV ADORABLE DOG IN THE SPOTLIGHT... ZOEY Local Puerto Vallarta children have huge hearts. They found Zoey with a rope tied around her neck and knew they had to do the right thing so they brought her to the Sanctuary.

Dear sweet Zoey is about seven months old. She has recovered very well from her ordeal and will make a wonderful pet.

Zoey is very good with other dogs and absolutely loving with children.

She had a bad start, help give her a wonderful finale! Please contact us at spcapv@gmail.com.

Friday Oct 11 - 17, 2013

SUDOKU easy

BRAIN TEASERS

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

medium

hard

Number Blocks What’s a number block you ask?

The numbers in each row add up to the totals to the right. The numbers in each column add up to the totals along the bottom. The diagonal lines also add up the totals to the right. Some of the numbers are missing. Try to fill in the missing numbers between 0 and 12.

Word Search Can you find the hidden Broadway shows?

They may be horizontal, vertical, diagonal, forwards or backwards.

A CHORUS LINE, AIDA, A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC, ANNIE GET YOUR GUN, BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, CABARET, CAMELOT, CAROUSEL, CATS, CHICAGO, COPACABANA, EVITA, GUYS AND DOLLS, GYPSY, HELLO DOLLY, JOLSON, KISS ME KATE, LES MISERA- DANCE, SHOWBOAT, SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN, SOUTH PACIFIC, SUNSET BOULEVARD, BLES, MISS SAIGON, THE KING AND I, THE PHANTOM OF THE RAGTIME, RIVEROPERA, WESTSIDE STORY.

Wuzzles

Commonym

What’s a wuzzle you ask? A wuzzle is a saying/phrase that is made up of a display of words, in an interesting way.The object is to try to figure out the well-known saying, person, place, or thing that each wuzzle is meant to represent.

What’s a commonym you ask? A commonyms is group of words that have a common trait in the three words/items listed. For example: thewords; A car - A tree - An elephant.. they all have trunks. These will make you think!

1. plates 2. first ladies 3. oils 4. captains 5. cheese 6. they have bells 7. they have bills 8. baskets 9. zones 10. agents Wuzzle 3 Answers 1. Somewhere Over the Rainbow 2. X Marks the Spot 3. Put two and two Together 4. Just Right 5. I Before E Except After C 6. High Seas

1. Home - Diner - License 2. Jackie - Dolly - Eleanor 3. Corn - Baby - Olive 4. America - Kangaroo - Crunch 5. Sharp - Cream - Cottage 6. Santa’s Sleigh - Churches - Schools 7. Debtors - Congress - Ducks 8. Picnic - Easter - Wastepaper 9. Twilight - End - No Parking 10. Secret - Double - Real Estate

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