Catch us online @ vallartatribune.com
History
05
Revolution Day
15
Nov 15 - 21, 2013 Free Issue 867
Dining Out
Restaurant reviews
17
Travel
escape to yelapa
FR EE
G
U
ID
E
Photos by Barb Nettleton
VIVA MEXICO
PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS Fernando Gonzalez Corona DIRECTOR 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 MANAGER Dora Luz Luna dora@vallartatribune.com Community Manager Julie Mongeau julie@vallartatribune.com DESIGNER Cynthia Estela Andrade G. cisandra@vallartatribune.com distribution Oscar Villalobos 225 4982 Vallarta Tribune is an activity and entertainment guide and merely publishes information as it is provided by the advertiser or event host. We do not assume responsibility in errors or omissions other than to correct them as soon as they are made known to us regarding event schedules, locations and/or prices. In addition, we do not assume any responsibility for erroneous inclusion or exclusion of information except to take reasonable care to ensure accuracy, that permission has been obtained to use it, and to remove it as soon as is practical upon receiving your notification of error. We recommend you always confirm prior to attending or visiting an event or establishment. Weekly publication edited, printed and distributed by Ediciones y Publicaciones Siete Junio, SA de CV Grupo Editorial Tribuna Calle 21 de Marzo # 1174 Col. Lomas del Coapinole Del. El Pitillal, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco México CP 48290 Tel. (322) 226-0829, 226-0800 editor@vallartatribune.com www.vallartatribune.com www.facebook.com/vallarta.tribune
LO
O
w
Welcome
Friday Nov 15 - 21, 2013
2
www.vallartatribune.com
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. 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
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
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 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.
Pay your bills. Be courteous. And have fun!
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.
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.
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.
Editorial
www.vallartatribune.com
great information for anyone looking for tips on using the very powerful online tools we often take for granted such as Facebook and LinkedIn. If you don’t have plans this weekend, consider dropping by and saying hello. www.engagemexico.com for more information. Festival Gourmet International launches this week. Many restaurants around town have
W
ow! Was that the last storm of the season? What a light show and combined with two earthquakes, it was a crazy night. Is it just me or is the weather acting extra strange this fall? This weekend I am learning all things social at the Engage Mexico Social Media Conference at the Sheraton. Within the pages of this week’s paper you will find the bios of the conference speakers. There are some very knowledgeable presenters and lots of
menu specials to promote this culinary festival. It’s a great time to ditch your diets and polish your forks. For a complete list of Festival events visit www.festivalgourmet.com As the weather worsens up north and Torontonians flee the
A local weekly guide to places, people and things
Maze Waze mayor Rob Ford disgrace, Puerto Vallarta sees more and more visitors returning, event kick-offs, fundraisers, restaurant launches and more. This week we are host to four cruiseships with about 10,000 visitors. Town is going to be very busy. Prepare yourself. Enjoy the crowds. Smile at our guests and be sure to share this copy of the Tribune around town. I continue to be blessed to live here, have this wonderful job and the support of the PV community. I encourage you to send me your comments, questions and invitations for sunset cocktails. Madeline Milne
M
I keep meaning to write you and tell you how much I am enjoying the Tribune now but of then life gets in the way and another week slips by. It was an excellent paper
Art in seven Waze around the Bay
W
ell known local painter/ muralist7street artist, Maze Waze, has created many of the extraordinary murals you can spy around town and across Banderas Bay. Most recently overseeing the transformation of the basketball courts behind Parque Hidalgo this artist shares with you seven stops in your exploration of art around the Bay. For something truely different see if you can find all seven destinations this week. Albert Einstein will attempt to lick you on your way to the hotel zone on calle Columbia. Holly Huichol. Walking down to the beach along the river in Sayulita is a Huichol shaman who will bless your path to the sun. Have fun ! Chicos beach . Right smack in the middle of Yelapa’s amazing beach you can find yourself stumbling into a psychedelic sea of wonder. There you will meet the soul of the ocean, la Aramara. Portrait as a sea fairy goddess . Tanana Gallery Mural. When arriving to Sayulita before crossing the bridge into town, to your right in front of the soccer field you will connect with a spiritual huichol peyote vision recreated in aerosol paint. The tree of life.
1 2
3
Around town with Julie
Letter to editor
Friday Nov 15 - 21, 2013
In the Know
Arround town with Julie
y feet are moving quickly, time even faster, but most of all, the events are flying by. I have been here less than three months, and here I thought I would be relaxing with my feet in the sand, well that was just silly of me! Now I’m wearing sneakers avoiding potholes and making sure that I arrive on time to all festivities and events. Last Friday night on my way to the opening night of Fosse at the Boutique PV, I realized how easily distracted I can be and of course not wanting to miss a thing, I notice everything that is happening around me. From the sad clown on the Malecon to the Madonnari Chalk Festival in the Palacio Principal, this one, I had to return to, observe and admire the dedication and passion of the artists aged six and up. On their knees, using chalk and pastels to bring life to concrete
3
4
5
Aztec Offering. A block up behind the Parque Hidalgo on calle Colombia heading north out of down town you will find a surreal mexican dream scene, one of culture and life. There is an Aztec man tower above the basketball courts where the neighborhood kids play soccer. Maria Sabina. Only blocks from Bibliotheca los Mangos in Las Canchas del Coral field, where art flows off the walls, over 40 graffiti artists have contributed to it. You can spy a Maria Sabina having a moment. A memorial mural connecting with the cosmos. Astronaut Star Gish. In Punta de Mita, when arriving and heading half way to the beach on the main street you will find another beach wall painted in black in white, friendly space traveler showing off his new star fish to the planet earth.
6
7
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
Ready, Set, Shop! Buen Fin is this weekend!
squares, I have to say I was left breathless… There’s something about Mexico and Puerto Vallarta, art is everywhere and it’s free… I think I have found my home! So here I was, excited about getting feedback and a heads up on
the special events happening during the next week in Puerto Vallarta, and to my dismay my julie@vallartatribune.com email is not in order, my deepest apologies and for the time being you can reach me at juliemongeau@gmail.com.
years ago but after Allyna and Heather left it really went downhill. Nothing but ads and no news. So I stopped reading it. Then I picked it up about six weeks ago and was amazed at the difference. Since you have been there
it just keeps getting better and better. It is so good to see the Tr i b u n e b a c k o n t r a c k w i t h news and things wor th reading. Ke e p u p t h e good work. Mary
S
avvy Shoppers get ready to snap up bargains as “Buen Fin” rolls in to town this weekend. From the 15th through the 18th of November, an estimated 600 local Puerto Vallarta businesses will offer up great savings off sought after merchandise. Touted as the “cheapest weekend of the year”, Buen Fin is estimated to have a local economic impact of 30 million pesos - an increase over last year’s 25 million. Retailers will have Buen Fin signage to signal their participation. Happy Shopping!
Cruise Ship Arrivals
Ahoy! Welcome to Puerto Vallarta This week we welcome the passengers of these cruise ships in our port. Please enjoy your time here in beautiful Puerto Vallarta. INFINITY CELEBRITY CRUISES 2499 19/11/2013 SAPPHIRE PRINCESS PRINCESS CRUISES 2600 19/11/2013 CARNIVAL MIRACLE CARNIVAL 2680 20/11/2013 NORWEGIAN STAR NORWEGIAN 2240 21/11/2013
NEWS
Friday Nov 15 - 21, 2013
Imss receives federal funding for an important children’s health initiative
T
he Director General of the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS ), José Antonio González Anaya , and the National Commissioner of Social Protection in Health, Jaime Gabriel O’Shea Cuevas, signed an Interagency Coordination Agreement to fortify strategies aimed at children under five years without Social Security, as well as for their families. At a working meeting held at the headquarters of the IMSS, the agreement promoting children’s health was signed. Its strategic objective is to build a healthy and developmentally sound segment of the population, particularly since health directly affects educational performance. In turn, this has a significant effect on health and productive capacity in adulthood. The agreement states that this increased investment in health will protect children and also helps form a basis guaranteeing a minimum level of opportunity
for their development as individuals. It also aids parents who are faced with the hardships brought about from having a sick child, but lacked health coverage. At the meeting, it was specifically established that the IMSS will provide quality health services to children by requiring complementary interventions through the Universal Health Services ( CAUSES ) and the Fund for Protection against Catastrophic Expenses ( FPGC ) of the IMSS. To do this, the agency will make use of the facilities and resources of rural hospitals run by the IMSS’s Oportunidades Program. The program operates in remote communities that do not have any other health institutions. So far more than 30 of these medical units are duly accredited by the Ministry of Health. Of note is that with this financial support received by the IMSS from the Federal Ministry of
Health, children of limited means will receive complete and comprehensive coverage in the early years of life. Last year alone, more than 100,000 children were born in IMSS -Oportunidades units. This agreement is widely seen as an important step in helping Mexico’s national health system become more inclusive and truly universal. The goal of these types of agreements is to solidify the right to health of all citizens, create a functional integration of the various institutions of the country’s health system and to make the health model of Mexico a more homogenous and viable one. The agreement complies with the National Health Policy issued by the President of the Republic, Enrique Peña Nieto. The National Health Policy consists of three major strategies: prevention, quality services and effective access to health services for all.
Sponsor a planter with the Puerto Vallarta Garden Club
A
s you drive into town from the airport – walk down the Malecon, Calles Augustin Rodriguez and Encino adjacent to the flea market, Avenidas Vallarta, Insurgentes and Mexico and especially along Basilio Badillo and Olas Altas, you will see the planters with the trees and bougainvillea that the Vallarta Garden Club has installed. The Club is beginning its fourth full year with the important mission of stimulating the knowledge and love of gardening, and beautifying and protecting our local environment through civic planting projects and educational and horticultural programs. The Club’s partnership with
the city for filling and maintaining planters when the new sidewalks went in two years ago is our primary accomplishment. The Club sells sponsorship of these planters, which are filled with a single primavera tree surrounded by colorful bougainvillea plants with Corona de Cristo (Crown of Thorns) and other flowering plants. Custom-designed tiles, painted at Mundo de Azuelos “World of Tiles”, featuring the sponsor’s names and often a philosophy or memorial, are affixed to each planter. Most tiles are in English but if you look closely there are some in Spanish, French and German, reflecting the truly international flavor that is Puerto Vallarta. The foliage and yellow blooms of
the primavera trees will provide shade, and the brilliant bougainvillea blossoms will cascade over the streets. Sponsorship of a planter can be purchased for $3200 to $5200 pesos depending upon the location. Please walk the city and as you see a planter location, or trees planted in circular cut-outs from the sidewalks, pick one you’d like to sponsor and we will place a tile denoting your sponsorship. Maintaining these plantings is an ongoing and often Sisyphean endeavor. Everything grows fast here in the tropics and that includes weeds. We pay a gardener throughout the summer in addition to planting and replacing plants. Contact us at suzkirk66@gmail.com to help.
4
www.vallartatribune.com
New library to open in Colonia Volcanes
T
he municipal government presided over by Puerto Vallarta Mayor Ramon Guerrero Martinez, in conjunction with Puerto Vallarta’s Rotary Club – South took actions to build a community library and training center in the colony of Volcanes. This new center will be named “Roma Kids”. Arturo Davalos Peña, Social Development Director of the Guerrero Martinez administration, lauded the efforts of Rotary Club (Puerto Vallarta South), stressing that the administration will continue collaborating with them in efforts beneficial to the region’s community. “On behalf of Mayor Ramon Guerrero Martinez, we thank the support of the Rotarians for such projects which, in this case, give children and adults in this community the opportunity to learn computer skills and English. In addition, with the opening of the library, members of the community will be able to continue to increase their cultural heritage through knowledge and learning” said the official.
El Foco Summary Dennis Rike, Commander of American Legion post 14, and Laura Joachin, President of the Navy League of Puerto Vallarta, were kind enough to join us for this week’s El Foco. It was very interesting to hear about the sheer number of projects they have going at a time, and the thoughtful reasoning that goes into picking each of them. We talked specifically about the fundraising they are doing for CANICA (Children’s Cancer Center) and the Asociación Femenil Vallartense (the Vallarta Women’s Association). Dennis also told us about project the American Legion is launching through their website in which volunteers- long term residents and weekend visitors alike- can leave their contact information and be paired up with worthwhile volunteer experiences around the bay. If you would like to participate, please visit the American Legion website: www.americanlegion14.org. Because of the public holiday, we will not be on the air on Nov. 18th, but join us again the week after on Monday at 4:00 pm (4:50 for the english summary provided by Vallarta Tribune) on 91.9FM C7Radio.
Engage Mexico, Embrace Social Media, Enhance Success
S
ocial media is not the future, it is the here and now. What is your online presence? The hottest social media summit around begins November 14th at the Sheraton. Engage Mexico offers three intense days filled with
learning about the impact of social media and how you can be best using it to grow your business – whether you are a brand, a restaurant, a service, a property owner, a wedding business or all of the above serving local and/or interna-
tional travelers. Trends, tech tools, strategy tips, case studies and inspiration are just some of the session content. This is a rare chance for hands-on-learning and to hear from and network with some of the leading social media
He noted that the municipality provided the project with construction materials such as stone and cement, in addition to providing the building equipment, placing the necessary netting, lighting poles and some reflectors. These materials will ensure that the center is maintained in good condition. Davalos Peña also stated that “we continually try to team up with people who want to contribute to the development of communities. We know that especially in Volcanoes, Lomas de San Nicolas, San Nicolas, Volcanes de la Montaña, which are further away from the city’s center, there is an increased need for support.” Meanwhile, Arthur Fumerton, representative of the Rotary Club Puerto Vallarta - South , thanked each of the people who contributed to the construction and equipment of this community library. He noted that the library will allow hundreds of children and adults to continue learning and advancing important skills.
rockstars in the US and Mexico. Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit can be a top “digitally ready” destination for tech savvy travelers. Are you on the cutting edge? Do you want be a leading Vallarta business? www.engagemexico.com
HISTORY
www.vallartatribune.com
The Mexican Revolution of 1910
M
exicans remember and celebrate the Revolution of 1910 to 1920 every year on the 20th of November. This day is referred to as el Día de la Revolución, or commonly as el veinte de noviembre (the 20th of November). The third Monday of November is a national holiday in Mexico in honor of Revolution Day, with this year being celebrated on November 18th. The Mexican Revolution officially began in 1910 after Francisco Ignacio Madero Gonzalez overthrew Porfirio Diaz. Porfirio Diaz began his term of presidency in 1876. At the time, he established a policy of “No Re-election”, prohibiting presidents from serving consecutive terms in office. After Diaz’s first term ended in 1880, the unqualified Manuel Gonzalez was elected. His recognizing of debts owed to Britain lessened him in the public view, and Porfirio Diaz was re-elected in 1884. After serving his second term as president of the republic, Diaz terminated his no re-election policy, hypocritically establishing himself as dictator and was “elected” for seven consecutive terms. Mexican industrialization boomed and the economy grew because of European investments
and Diaz’s reforms. These reforms were not liberal, rather reactionary. Diaz changed land laws created by Benito Juarez (1858-1872), lessening a Mexican individual’s right to own land. An influx of peasants arrived in cities as a result of Diaz’s reforms, forming an urban, lower class that took jobs improving infrastructure (building roads, working in factories, etc.). At this time, Diaz also restricted civil liber-
The Revolutionaries Pancho Villa (1878 – 1923)
G
eneral Francisco “Pancho” Villa was the most iconic and best-known personality of the Mexican revolution. As a young man he was a bandolero, a common bandit. The contacts he made during these early years would serve him well later, when he sought to put together a revolutionary army. Uneducated, and considered by many to be coarse, Villa was nevertheless a military genius, His ability to generate publicity and give it his own spin would rival many celebrities today. He loved being in the limelight. Villa loved being photographed. The fact that he operated close to the United States meant that he was nearly always in the spotlight in the U.S. In 1913, Villa signed a contract with Hollywood’s Mutual Film Company to film many of his battles.
ties. These restrictions led to the Porfirioto opposition. Diaz’s age and carelessness were directly correlated. Still, in 1910, Diaz ran against Francisco I. Madero for president of the Mexican Republic. Diaz was declared winner after Madero was thrown in jail for opposing the regime. Having gathered support of the peasants by promising liberal reforms, Madero formed an army
Sometimes battles were re-scheduled or re-staged for the convenience of the cameras. It was during this period that the United States supported Villa and provided him with weapons. Villa, in turn, remained sensitive to U.S. interests in Mexico. In 1923, in an agreement with then-President Álvaro Obregón, Villa retired to a hacienda in Canutillo, near Parral, Chihuahua. He seemed to be living the quiet life of a rancher, surrounded by former comrades and friends, many of whom now served as his body guards. But Obregón, and his soon-to-be successor, Plutarco Elias Calles, wanted to take no chances that Villa might regain his strength. They established a conspiracy to assassinate him. On July 20, 1923, as Villa made his way back to his ranch from Parral, seven riflemen rained a fusillade of shots on his car. The “Centaur
5
Friday Nov 15 - 21, 2013
to fight Diaz. Primarily consisting of peasants, Madero’s supporters were able to divide Diaz’s army. Alongside Madero fought Pancho Villa and Emiliano Zapato, leaders who shared a common goal of removing Diaz from power. Francisco I. Madero called for a re-election, which he won. He was supported by the United States, Pascual Orozco, Villa, and Zapata. After a short time in office, he lost the support of Zapata, who soon drafted a document, the Plan de Ayala, which highlighted Madero’s reluctance to return land to the ranch-owners of Mexico. Madero was forced to abdicate office, only to be replaced by Victoriano Huerta, his former commander-in-chief. A week later, Madero and the former vice-president were killed. Huerta was not recognized as president of Mexico by the United States, though most other world powers supported him. During this time Pancho Villa and Carranza became enemies, though they were both fighting to remove Huerta from power. Villa, Carranza, and Obregon participated in a series of bloody skirmishes, the most important being the Battle of Ceyala, from which Carranza emerged victoriously. Shortly after, the United States officially recognized Carranza as leader of Mexico. Villa, infuriated and seeking revenge,
of the North” was no more.
Emiliano Zapata (1879 – 1919) Emiliano Zapata was born in Anenecuilco, in the Mexican state of Morelos, just south of Mexico City. Zapata lost his father when he was 17 years old (in 1896), and thus his education was cut short. He took up work as a horse trainer to support his family, his mother and nine siblings. Zapata’s main cause was the return of stolen land to its rightful owners, the peasants of Morelos. It is said that he kept the deeds of the peasant families in a tin box he had with him always. Zapata was a hero to the families in his region, although he and his men continuously drew the wrath of the federal government down upon Morelos. Zapata’s army was unique in that he allowed women to join the ranks and serve as combatants. Only in Zapata’s army were
attacked Columbus, New Mexico. Worthless ammunition had been sold to Villa from Columbus, and it was this blunder that cost Villa the victory at the Battle of Ceyala. Eighteen Americans and ninety of Villa’s own soldiers paid for his rage. The United States pursued Villa for nearly a year after the violation, though the chase was futile. Despite opposition from other revolutionaries, Carranza was elected president in 1917. He created the Constitution of 1917, which included the ideas of peasants and assembled social reforms never made by Diaz. However, he was never able to implement all of the reforms mentioned in the constitution, as he was assassinated by Obregon, whom he had appointed as his commander-in-chief. Though his term was cut short, he was able to make social reforms that bettered the position of women. He depended on his secretary Hermila Galindo de Topete to gain the support of the marginalized and to set an example for women around the country. Obregon ascended to power in 1920, after killing his predecessor. Revolts continued, and the social reforms outlined in the Constitution of 1917 were not achieved until 1934, when Lazaro Cardenas del Rio served as president. Sources: unahistoriademexico. blogspot.mx
there large numbers of women combatants: some were even officers. Some modern Mexican feminists point to the historical importance of these “soldaderas” as a milestone in women’s rights. In early 1916 Carranza sent Pablo González, his most ruthless general, to track down and stamp out Zapata once and for all. González employed a no-tolerance, scorched earth policy: he destroyed villages, executing all those he suspected of supporting Zapata. Although Zapata was able to drive the federales out for a while in 1917-8, they returned to continue the fight. Carranza soon told González to finish Zapata by any means necessary, and on April 10, 1919, Zapata was doublecrossed, ambushed and killed by Colonel Jesús Guajardo, one of González’ officers who had pretended to want to switch sides.
Engage Mexico Learn from the Best: Claudia Havi Goffan A true influential. Recognized as an expert in Latino Marketing by CNN en Español, Havi has been named one of the Top 48 PR professionals by the American Express
Open Forum and she has been featured in Adweek, CNN, Hispanic Business, Univision, Huffington Post and other national and international media. A native from Buenos Aires, Argentina, Claudia has been very influential in the Latino markets
in the U.S. and Latin America - both from a business and a community standpoint - always with outstanding results. She has contributed to brands as diverse as Weather Channel, Grady Health Systems, XEROX, AT&T, SunTrust Bank,
Red Shoe Movement, Papa John’s, Liberty Mutual, British Telecom, Telcel, Citibank, and Verizon. @TargetLatino
LOCAL 6
www.vallartatribune.com
OTFM-TC Turns the Spotlight on Its First Young Entrepreneur: Mireya Amaral
PV Sea Dive By Sue Keevil pvseadive.com
Tell me again, how cold is the water?
B
By Erin Staley oldtownfm.com
T
his Saturday, you may notice something new at the Old Town Farmers Market-Tianguis Cultural – the Young Entrepreneur Program. Two years in the making, this program creates life-changing opportunities for young people with a “make it, bake it, grow it” passion.
anderas Bay is so unpredictable, but maybe that is why it is so special. What is not special is that I seem like I have no clue what I am talking about! Let´s take the water temperature for instance. Two years ago, the water was down to 68° in October and I was wearing a 7mm thick wetsuit. Last year, it was 87° right up until January and I was wearing shorts and a shirt. This year, it went down to 80° two weeks ago and has now gone back up to 87°, even at depth. I am sure my divers think I have no idea what I am talking about when they ask me what the water temperature will be so they can pack the correct wetsuit, but I really have no idea. The water temperature can change by 10° in as little as two days, so I can be off in my estimates if I have a day off from diving. Just to be safe, we pack a variety of suits each day so as not to get caught out. The clarity of the water, which is something divers refer to as visibility, can change in less than a day. Last month, I had four divers diving with me on Saturday and Sunday. On the Saturday, we had less than twenty foot visibility, and they were saying that they might cancel their Sunday dives. I explained that the next day it could be fifty foot plus. I was not trying to change their minds just to make myself some money; I was just trying to explain how this bay works (like I know!). They did come diving with me on the Sunday, and we had around 100 foot visibility which made them very happy, and more importantly, kept my credibility intact.
There is a large misconception that things change so dramatically due to the bay being so deep. It´s not that deep compared to similar bays at 3,000 feet in some areas, but averages around 1,000. The dramatic changes are caused by the strong currents and large tide changes that can be around eight feet some days. I think the most dramatic elevation changes occur between the mountains and the ocean floor. To the south point of the bay, the Sierra Madres rise up to 2,000 feet, and the ocean floor in front of it lies at 3,000 feet. Underwater, there is a dramatic drop off at one special point at Los Arcos. Los Arcos is so called as all of the large rocks have arches in them, apart from one. This rock is locally known as Turtle Rock. I just call it Rock as I can´t see the turtle. Off to the right hand side of this rock is an area known as the Devil’s Canyon, where there is a sand path at around seventy feet, tide depending, which has a large gap to swim through. This is called the Devil’s Jaw. Once over the sand patch, there is a drop off to 1,800 feet that is really dramatic. This is the Bandera’s Trench that leads out to the San Andreas Fault line. So, please come and explore this lovely bay, but please, don´t ask me at this time of year how cold the water will be!
The Entrepreneurial Spirit
Engage Mexico
Jay Handler
rational Shift, he speaks across the country about what he calls the “Boomer Bubble Burst”. We are witnessing the largest shift in human capital ever in America. @JayHandler
Jay Handler hailing from South Carolina is the co-founder of Membership180, owner of The Marketing Department, co-founder of the Social Media Club of Greenville (SC), and the host of the Open for Business radio show. An expert in Gene-
Friday Nov 15 - 21, 2013
As a social entrepreneur, OTFM-TC Founder Charlotte Semple has always championed entrepreneurship. While developing a Canadian nonprofit, she encouraged her five- and sevenyear-old to create their own little businesses. They started a theater group and charged admission. As the children grew, so did their interests. They created a string of small businesses that sold everything from greeting cards to recycled art. Today, both are prospering on their own entrepreneurial adventures. “It was great fun to watch their enthusiasm and creativity,” says Semple. “In many ways, they just copied what I was doing at the time, creating and branding. It is this young entrepreneurial interest that I want to feature at the market, and Mexico is the perfect place to run such a program because many children live in entrepreneurial households.”
It Takes a Village
Thanks to the intuition of L.O.C.A. founder and OTFM-TC vendor, Sylvie Scopazzo, Semple was introduced to 11-year-old Mireya Amaral Uribe and her mentor, Cherie Verber. Verber, a former family and marriage therapist, who had begun teaching neighborhood girls how to sew in February 2013. Mireya’s natural
Marco Ayuso After several years known as
talent immediately caught Verber’s attention. During that time, other ex-pats noticed the young girl’s willingness to learn. Bruce Byng, chef owner of Teatro Limon and Bistro Limon, donated $2,000 pesos and a new sewing machine. Pam Thompson-Webb of HealthCare Resources Puerto Vallarta facilitated a market venue; Kathleen Palmer of Deja New Consignments allowed her to participate in a charity fashion show; Mary Jacobs designed a company logo; and Pam Alexandra was her go-to gal. All the while, Verber created prototypes that fed Mireya’s hunger to advance her dress-making skills. “It takes a village to raise a girl,” said Verber. “And with the help of so many, we are empowering Mexico’s future, one girl at a time.”
Introducing Poder de Niña
Within months, Mireya was launching her own business, Poder de Niña. She sold her dresses in her neighborhood and then at a local market once a month for three months. Mireya fell in love with the process. She wanted to sell every weekend, and the OTFM-TC gave her the opportunity. Mireya spent the summer pinning, cutting, stitching and serging. She also increased her English knowledge and learned money management as all profits go back into her business. Semple was impressed and invited Mireya to cut the opening day ribbon for the OTFM-TC’s new location. Among the fans were Mireya’s proud parents, Antonio and Rosa, and her helpful big brother, Abraham.
the “specialist of client attraction” in social media circles around Mexico, Marco has shifted his focus to coach people on finding their passion. Marco’s mission is to help people find their purpose in life, what makes them immensely happy and connected with everything, whatever that is. He believes ever-
Just in Time for the Holidays Give the favorite girl in your life a Poder de Niña original. Styles, prices and sizes vary, but the inspiration remains the same. Everything is under $199 pesos ($16US). And be sure to check out Mireya’s “dress like your doll” line for American Girl dolls. You will see her own 18-inch doll, Brithany Ixthel, modeling many of the styles. For only $49 pesos each ($4US), you can collect every one-of-a-kind design. To learn more or to place a special order, contact (322) 294-1563, poderdenina(at)yahoo.com.
Inspired?
“Mireya and Cherie are a perfect example of what it takes: a youth with a passion and a mentor with the time and experience to guide her,” says Semple. “We celebrate that and invite other young talents to join us at the OTFM-TC.” If you know of a budding entrepreneur between the ages of 10 and 16, send them to the market information booth where they can pick up an application. And if you’d like to become a part of the team, we have vendor, volunteer or chef demonstrator applications, too. See you on Saturday at Lazaro Cárdenas Park for all the shopping fun! Located kitty-corner to Daiquiri Dick’s on Olas Atlas, 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.
LOCAL 7
Friday Nov 15 - 21, 2013
Paradise and Parenting By Leza Warkentin
Dining on Disaster
T
he other night around ten o’clock in the evening I was out at DeSantos Restaurant, waiting for my husband’s set to start, when I saw a young family leaving the restaurant. The parents were beautifully dressed and smiling, and their little girl, around three years old, was neat, clean and well groomed. I spent the night obsessing over how this young family could go to any restaurant, never mind one with cloth napkins, after 8pm and emerge without even one single tomato-based stain. When our children were that age, the stain would have been the best part of the evening. When we had preschoolers we were into bedtime lockdown by 7pm. It was often a delicate, righton-the-edge time of day, and you would hear statements like: GET your TEETH brushed and STOP trying to RIDE the DOG. After that witching hour I wouldn’t have
Engage Mexico yone has a gift to the world, wants to help as many people as possible to bring this gift through a profitable business. Marco will help you find and turn your true passion into a business that provides value to society and allows you to have the
taken a free meal at a restaurant with two children who were not above flushing non-dissolvable items five minutes before bedtime. But I was fascinated by the family who obviously thought nothing of dining out at beautiful, decadent DeSantos at the time of day when ours would have been tearfully arguing over whether ANYONE deserves to choose the bedtime story. I fear that I am far too practical and budget-minded a mother sometimes. I could never justify going to a fine-dining restaurant and paying for an experience that involved forcibly removing salt-shakers from the hands of little grim-faced persons while talking through my teeth. We almost always chose restaurants that had either a) paper menus with crayons (thank you Fredy’s Tucan) b) some sort of play apparatus (thank you Lukumbe) or c) the beach (thank you entire Bay of Banderas). God love you, Mexico, people
lifestyle that you really want. @marcoayuso
Jamie Turner Jamie Turner is an author, speaker and marketing thought-leader. He is the Founder of the 60 Second Marketer, an online community that provides tools, tips
around here adore children, and our family has never felt unwelcome in any restaurant. Even our repeat visits have always been greeted with smiles (keeping in mind also that we are unbelievably great tippers). But, quite frankly, when I don’t even have the luxury of ordering what I want because I know I will be plenty full from eating two entire platefuls of plain spaghetti, I might as well just hit the family-friendlies. And honestly, the family friendlies HERE as opposed to the ones in my hometown in Canada really can’t be fairly compared. Try Lukumbe or El Rio BBQ and let me know if you think you are really missing out on a fine dining experience. To all those young families with preschoolers out there, I will light the candle of hope for you. You WILL get the chance to eat high-end food again without gritting your teeth or blowing the date-night budget on a sitter (although I can always get behind a date night). About a year ago, my children, 6 and 8 years old, informed me that they had planned my Mother’s Day dinner which would take place at La Dolce Vita Nuevo Vallarta. I glanced nervously at my husband, who shrugged, because he had not been allowed into the room while the plan was being hatched. When we got there, I knew immediately that our family had just taken it to a whole new level. My son pulled out my chair. My daughter gracefully accepted her pasta with parsley sprinkled on it. They both ate at least half their own meals while making polite, interesting, non-confrontational conversation (admittedly about their Wii Sports tournament and Taylor Swift vs. One Direction, but I’ll take it). After dinner they did engage in a game of hide and seek in the empty plaza beside our patio table, but by that time I figured they had more than earned it. There is hope, my friends. Just give it some time. Until then, I’ll see you all at the beach. Oh, how we suffer for our children.
and tutorials for marketers around the globe. He is known for his ability to provide relevant marketing insights in a light-hearted style that keeps audiences engaged and entertained. As a regular guest on CNN and HLN on the topics of social media, mobile marketing and digital marketing, he consults
www.vallartatribune.com
This is Paradise... By Marcia Blondin marciavallarta@gmail.com
A
ll kinds of action these days at the Paradise Community Center. A thousand thank you’s to all our visitors who came through the front doors last Saturday for our Co-op Farmer’s Market. Every Saturday 9 until 1 you will find an amazing array of edibles and non-edibles. You’ll be cool inside the PCC with all our fans tucked into our huge palapa if the weather continues to be unseasonably warm. So good to see all my fellow vendors every week and terrific to greet returning residents and friends. Seemed like every time I turned around there was a new/old face saying hello. Thanks again for coming. And, just one more thing - make it a weekly habit, would you?! Congratulations to our own Sid Goodman, Chile Master and now published author of “Zylan’s Messengers” Book One. Having had the pleasure of reading it, my words to Sid are: When will Book Two be finished? Broadway tunes continue to BEDAZZLE every Saturday night on the Paradise Stage until mid-December. This show is packed with talent and should not be missed. Come early, eat and enjoy the music. According to the Puerto Vallarta Old Town Southside Digest online, the Blonde Gypsies, Latcho and Andrea will be performing on the Paradise Stage Wednesday evening November 20. If you haven’t heard this duo - you have never experienced Flamenco music. Wowie! They’ve been in Europe but now they’re back so mark that day on your calendars - that’s next Wednesday. Come early for Margaritas! On Thursday, the 21st, at 11 am, the Puerto Vallarta Garden Club
and has worked with brands such as AT&T, CNN, Motorola, Cartoon Network and The Coca-Cola Company. In addition to the 60 Second Marketer blog, Jamie writes for Mashable, HubSpot and Social Media Examiner. @AskJamieTurner
meets at the PCC. If you think this is a bunch of blue-haired old ladies sitting around sipping tea and talking African Violets - forget it! This dedicated group of mostly ex-pats gets together every month to figure out ways to make Puerto Vallarta more beautiful. All those fabulous bougainvilleas on Basilio Badillo and the whole southside were bought by, planted by and are still being cared for by the PV Garden Club. They receive nothing from the city, monetarily speaking - all cash is raised by sponsorships for the planters and tiles and plaques you will see around town. This week, special guest speaker Sandra, whose Walk Vallarta is the best way to get to know the city and environs will have exciting news. Everyone is welcome to come the third Thursday of every month to learn how to make Vallarta lovelier. You don’t have to be a gardener although you will, no doubt, learn something and there is always someone who can answer any gardening questions you might have. The Second Annual Bougainvillea Festival is already in the planning stages. Under the gentle guidance of Chairwoman Kimberley we are planning and brainstorming and making committees and commitments and we need help. We need dozens of volunteers to make this Festival that will, one day, rival that little Cherry Blossom Festival held annually in Washington, D.C. For sure it will be early May 2014. Shorter time frame than last year and jam packed with internationally important events. Come by the PCC Thursday at 11am, on the 21st, to learn more delicious details... See everybody soon and remember to take care of our tourists.
LOCAL
www.vallartatribune.com
8
Friday Nov 15 - 21, 2013
Wanderings Kim Martin, Designing Her Own Paradise on Olas Altas By Ariel O’Donnell
www.optimize-zen.com
By Poncho Davalos alfonso@tropicasa.com
SETAC celebrates other year in Puerto Vallarta
I
had the opportunity of meeting Paco Ojeda a few months ago at Vallarta Pride 2013 and in talking with him I found it very interesting to find out about what SETAC does. It was my first time learning about an association in Puerto Vallarta that helps and informs people with HIV among other things. SETAC has been in Puerto Vallarta since 2009. It started with Ed Thomas’ idea that he wanted to give something back to the community of Puerto Vallarta, a place he loves. When he moved to our beautiful Puerto Vallarta, he decided to help the people at Lazaro Cardenas Park. He provided food to those who used to work there. Even though that was important, Ed and Paco saw how crucial it was to inform the people about STDs (Sexually Transmitted Diseases), this is why they decide to redirect part of the mission of SETAC. According to Paco, SETAC is a space where the people can feel free, read a book, talk with some friends, watch a movie on the movie nights and in some cases, receive some psychological help. Paco mentioned that part of the satisfaction has been to help those who were rejected from their homes around Mexico and come to Puerto Vallarta because they learned about SETAC and knew there was a safe place for them here. SETAC is not a shelter but they can help people in need find a job, a place to stay and provide
food and clothing if necessary. Paco Ojeda said he is proud when parents stop at SETAC with their children to ask for sexual education, as it is still a taboo subject for many in Mexico. SETAC’s current activities include: • Brigades around Puerto Vallarta to inform people about STDs • HIV Quick test • Psychological help If you’re in town and you want to help you can become a volunteer. This is the time to help and support. SETAC is having an event called “RODADA POR LA VIDA” (Ride for life) in cooperation with PUERTO VALLARTA EN BICI. SETAC invites all to participate on December 1st World AIDS Day. It is also important that as a foreigner to know that you can apply to the Social Health Protection System (Popular Insurance Scheme) which provides health service coverage, through voluntary, public insurance for persons that are not affiliated to any social security institution. For more information, about the Social Health Protection System and to be a volunteer please contact Paco Ojeda to paco@setac.com.mx Guys and girls see you soon around Olas Altas. 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
Engage Mexico Andrea Vahl Andrea Vahl is a Social Media Consultant and Speaker who is passionate about helping businesses understand and leverage the power of social media to actually grow their business. Andrea is the
C
anadian born, designer and owner of Myskova Resort and Beachwear, Kim Martin, grew up in a family of designers and sewing geniuses. Desperate to get out of the cold, and for adventure, Kim moved to Mexico and began a successful acting and modeling career. After a number of modeling gigs, which involved wearing completely impractical and totally uncomfortable swimsuits, she decided to take matters into her own hands, and began designing her own line of swimsuits and beachwear. All of her clothing is designed and manufactured here in Mexico, by people with a passion and commitment to making women, no matter what age (whether big, small, short or tall) look great and feel good in her swimwear. I recently sat down with Kim to talk about her experience as a Canadian expatriate business owner and resident of Mexico.
What part of Canada are you from? I grew up in Victoria, British Columbia.
What was your first job in Mexico? I was 18 and worked at Club Med in Cancun where I was as an aerobic instructor. It was a terrific way of starting out, lots of people my age up for adventure and fun. Later on I worked as an actress and model in Mexico City, for about 10 years, and then I began my first line of swimwear Ningun Pecado.
What inspired you to become an entrepreneur and to own your own business? I can’t pinpoint exactly what inspired me. My father is an artist and a boat designer and my mother had her own dancewear business in Victoria, BC. As a child I was a dancer and entertainer, and my mom designed all of these incredible costumes for me. My mother was
co-author of Facebook Marketing All-in-One for Dummies and is the Community Manager for Social Media Examiner, consistently ranked in the top 3 Marketing Blogs in the world on the AdAge Power150 list. She also uses her Improv comedy skills to blog as a slightly cranky character, Grandma
amazing, and very dedicated and supportive. She always made me feel special and talented. I’m also a very high-energy person, and love to create.
How do you juggle the design, manufacturing and running of three stores here in Puerto Vallarta? That’s a very good question. I work around the clock. I see inspiration in everything, and am always thinking about new designs and ways of improving existing ones. Plus my family is incredibly supportive. My kids have grown up with the business, and my husband is a scientist, so he is very linear and really keeps me on track. He also handles a lot of the details, and computer stuff, so I can do more of what I love. My children pitch in too-- we’re definitely the Myskova “team”.
How does living in Mexico compare to living in Canada? Living in Mexico is wonderful! It definitely has its challenges, and a lot of the unexpected surprises, which means that there is never a dull moment. So, as a Canadian, who was used to a lot of structure, I had to adapt, but now I can’t imagine living any other way. The vibrance and color of this country never ceases to amaze me. Also, I could never afford our current Puerto Vallarta lifestyle in Canada. My children attend an excellent bilingual private school, which is a fraction of the price of something comparable in Canada. I have help around the house, which frees me up for the business and for my family. Instead of spending the weekend cleaning and doing laundry, with the help of our amazing housekeeper Mari, I can go with my family and spend the weekend snorkeling in our beautiful bay, or taking hikes in the jungle.
You are raising your children here. How does that compare to raising them in Canada? Do you think that they are missing-out on anything? They are missing Mary – Social Media Edutainer on her site at www.AndreaVahl.com.
Viveka von Rosen One of the 10 Most Influential Women in Social Media, Viveka von Rosen, author of “LinkedIn Marketing: An Hour a Day” is a huge fan of social networking, and particularly
out on some of the English language skills, but they go to a bilingual school and speak English, Spanish and Czech (my husband is from the Czech Republic) at home. Children are so adored in Mexico. It’s such a family and community oriented culture. And strangely enough I think that all of the rules and restrictions in Canada cause the children to rebel more. For instance, in Mexico, alcohol is readily available, but there doesn’t seem to be the number of issues with teens and drinking.
What do you think about the current economic climate here in Puerto Vallarta and Mexico? Vallarta has certainly felt the effect of the US crisis, however, at Myskova, we are finding that some of our best clients are Mexican. For example, during the summer vacations, when a lot of businesses suffer, we do quite well thanks to our Mexican patrons. There are after all 110 million of Mexicans in the country – a great national market to focus on.
Do you have any worries about safety and security down here? Very rarely. My 10-year-old son was horrified by all of the school violence up in the U.S. and told me that he could never imagine that sort of thing happening here.
Is there something else that you would like to add? You create your own world wherever you may be. I love the spontaneity of Mexico, and this helps me fully live my life here with passion for most everything I do.
Friday Nov 15 - 21, 2013
RIVIERA NAYARIT 9
www.vallartatribune.com
Fun on the Riviera Nayarit By Cat Morgan www.rivieranayaritfun.com
Another Fun La Cruz Mercado La Cruz Sunday Market
I
t is Sunday morning and the second La Cruz Sunday Market of the season comes alive. It was another hot day and the early birds were already there. I drove in looking for a parking spot with the place pretty full, but somehow I always manifest a good space. Upon entering the market the band Expiral was playing English songs that everyone could sing along, and mostly older rock n’ roll. The ambiance of the market was
very upbeat and enjoyable with a good crowd. The market is held alongside the La Cruz Marina, so the Malecón was lined with vendors providing every kind of product all the way past the La Cruz Fish Market. The venders provided organic food items such as sunflower honey made in Guadalajara and organic peanuts from Carahuate Carlos (from PV), natural homeopath items and fresh farmers market products, fresh chimichurri and German and sweet pickles made form Alberto, Oxnards soaps with aromatherapy oils, lip balms and body butter creams, and arts and crafts with many made from plastic bottles or recy-
cled items like these butterflies! Good food abounds with many folks that catered to the North American and Mexican comfort foods. Hand in the Kitchen makes dishes you can take home when you do not feel like cooking, and at the end of the jetty there is Hecho En Mexico Bakery. They have gluten free bread this season, La Patagonia are once again making their grilled steak sandwiches and empanadas! Cold fresh juices and also Coco Frio are also available. I really love the cold fresh green coconut juice. Visiting every vendor’s booth, I looked around and took in the fluidity of the mingling of cultures, enjoying the combination of music,
food, and various forms of art. Many of amazing jewelers like the always smiling Chelow from Sayulita, and Chantel, who makes jewelry out of spoons, very cool! Ron from the Yukon, Arte Metalcio, makes amazing home and garden decorations that also light up! Even though it was hot, they have tarps up for shade, making the market quite enjoyable. While walking through I ran into old friends and made new ones as well! Stopping at the La Cruz Fish Market for fresh tuna on the way out for dinner to go with the market goodies was perfect! The La Cruz Sunday Market or La Cruz Mercado is a wonderful place to be on Sundays!
Cat Morgan, owner of the RivieraNayaritFun.com Regional Network is open for comments and Riviera Nayarit news at Cat@ RivieraNayaritFun.com
STREET CLOSURE NOTICE On November 23rd from 6:45 am until 10:00 am the streets in Nuevo Vallarta around the Campo de Golf El Tigre and Flamingos will be closed for the Riviera Nayarit half-marathon. It is estimated that one thousand runners will take part in this year’s event. Please take caution and plan your travel accordingly for this day.
REAL ESTATE 10
www.vallartatribune.com
Puerto Vallarta, a Walkers Paradise By Vevi Guillen vevi@g3mex.com
I
’m originally from Puerto Vallarta, and I come from a family of eight children. My father was a doctor and the founder of the Health Center in Puerto Vallarta. My mother dedicated herself to her home and family and was very involved in working for the betterment community welfare here in Vallarta. Both of my parents were the primary force behind the construction of the local Health Center. I love to Vallarta and I consider it one of the best places in the world to live. Puerto Vallarta, like so many beautiful spots around the globe has become much more pedestrian friendly. Many locals don’t even bring their car into the downtown area any longer, as they can easily take a cab or bus, and avoid the hassle of looking for limited street parking, or dealing with paying at the several parking garages around town. Many of my recent G3MEX Real Estate Group clients have even chosen not to own a car. Especially
in light of all of the new regulations regarding legalization of foreign made vehicles here in Mexico. And a car is not really that necessary, especially if you are living in the vibrant El Centro area, where pretty much everything is within walking distance. With the beautiful street widening of Basilio Badillo, you can take a leisurely stroll, on well-paved sidewalks, drift in and out of shops, without fear of careening into the street on a piece of uneven pavement. In fact, this rejuvenation of this strip has made the Southside the hot new area in town. Condo developments are popping up everywhere, and now, in its fourth year, the Southside Shuffle held every other Friday from 6-10pm, is a great example the revitalization trend. The Shuffle is a great way to check out art galleries, restaurants, and shops and to catch up with locals and visitors alike. Hopefully we’ll see this trend continue throughout Vallarta.
Too, beautification around town has become a major priority. As you’ve probably noticed in many areas, our view of the sky is no longer obstructed by unsightly wires and cables hanging everywhere, since the city began widening sidewalks, and burying the cables underground. Another one of my favorite aesthetic additions, are the amazing gardens on stairways going up Calle Iturbide and Calle Mina. Maintenance for these gardens is paid for by local residents of the area, to ensure that they remain clean and well-groomed. And of course, our town’s crown jewel, is the amazing Malecon. The controversy surrounding it was enormous in the beginning, but now it is one of the most beloved and unique public spaces in all of Mexico. We are also lucky to have the local Puerto Vallarta Garden Club, a volunteer organization, responsible for cleaning up and maintaining Parque Lazaro Cardenas; installation of the bugambilias on Basilio Badillo and the planting of primavera trees throughout downtown. They also organize the Bugambilia Festival and regular neighborhood clean-ups. To volunteer, or donate, contact them at: www.vallartagardenclub.com. And if you’re really serious about walking, and want to find some magical hidden streets, our local expert, Sylvie Scopazzo, leads
her now famous “Power Walk the Hidden Streets of Puerto Vallarta” and she can be reached at: www. sylviescopazzo@gmail.com. If you have questions, or need
Friday Nov 15 - 21, 2013
recommendations regarding real estate or the local scene, please feel free to contact me at the G3MEX office at: 044-322-429-7491 or via email at: vevi@g3mex.com.
Puerto Vallarta continues initiative for betterment of local communites
U
Engage Mexico LinkedIn. She is known internationally as the “LinkedIn Expert” and speaks to corporations, associations and business owners on the benefits of marketing with social media. She was recently listed: Forbes 10 Most Influential Women
in Social Media, Forbes 50 Most Influential People in Social Media, TopRank’s 25 Women Who Rock Social Media ,Big Money Web’s 200 Most Fearless Women Online
Alvaro Ferreira Alvaro has embraced a new way of doing things. In 2011 he founded
nder a directive by Mayor Ramon Guerrero Martinez, Arturo Davalos Peña of the Dept. of Social Development and Citizenship Participation reactivated the initiative “Transform Vallarta” (Transforma Vallarta). The initiative coordinates responses to requests made by neighborhood committees for civic improvements. According to reports presented by Davalos Peña , approximately 1700 people and 493 homes in the colonies of Progreso, Palmar and Lomas del Progreso, benefited from the “Transform Vallarta”
activities carried out by municipal government workers. “We rely on neighborhood committee requests which are forwarded to Citizen Participation. Thus, we are made aware of what the people of these communities require and what needs urgent attention. We can then go straight to the problem to address it properly” said the CEO of Social Development and Citizenship Participation. Davalos Peña stressed the importance of the government working hand in hand with citizens to achieve a true transformation in residential areas.
the Online Marketing Agency, Para Todo Hay Fans in Guadalajara, Jalisco offering integral solutions supported by Social Media characterized by connecting the online with the offline world. Alvaro understands that people are seeking different ways to do the same things with a different focus and started
Estratecnia Business Playground offering non-traditional methods for business development including creating strategies, team building and recruitment. He is also a Lego Serious Play certified Facilitator.
Rehabilitation of roads, change of lighting, maintenance of green areas, playground repair, trash removal , painting of bridges , tree pruning and cleaning of the colonias in general, are some of the activities to be performed weekly in various sectors of the city . “We work together to respond effectively to requests in Vallarta. Because of this, our outreach work which gives priority to the needs of neighborhood committees will impact other agencies’ responses and continue the positive transformation of Puerto Vallarta,” said Davalos Peña .
Located across the street from Canto del Sol and the Cornerstone Hospital, Plaza Caracol is centrally located in Puerto Vallarta’s Versalles neighbourhood, only minutes from downtown, Fluvial and the hotel zone.
DINING OUT 14
Friday Nov 15 - 21, 2013
www.vallartatribune.com
Festival Gourmet International Events
I
n addition to wonderful dinner specials to found around the bay and as far north as Tepic, specific events are being held each day of the Festival. Visit www.festivalgourmet.com for more details and to make reservations.
FRIDAY, NOV. 15 • A LA CARTA • CHEF´S TABLE AND WINEMAKER´S NIGHT • LITIBU GOURMET EXPERIENCE • CHEF´S CLUB LOUNGE
SATURDAY, NOV. 16 • A LA CARTA • GOURMET SAFARI 1 • CHEF´S CLUB LOUNGE
SUNDAY, NOV. 17
TUESDAY, NOV. 19
THURSDAY, NOV. 21
• A LA CARTA • BUFFET BRUNCH GOURMET • CHEF´S TABLE & WINEMAKER´S NIGHT • CHEF´S CLUB LOUNGE
• A LA CARTA • SECOND GOURMET COOKING DESMONSTRATION • CHEF´S TABLE AND WINEMAKER´S NIGHT • CHEF´S CLUB LOUNGE
• A LA CARTA • CULINARY SYMPOSIUM • KITCHENAID FOURTH GOURMET COOKING DEMONSTRATION • CHEF´S CLUB LOUNGE
WEDNESDAY, NOV. 20
FRIDAY, NOV. 22
• A LA CARTA • KITCHENAID THIRD GOURMET COOKING DEMONSTRATION • CHEF´S CLUB LOUNGE
• A LA CARTA • WORLD CHEESE, CORONA BEER & CHOCOLATE • MAÎTRE CUISINIER THIERRY BLOUET & HIS CHEFS TABLE
MONDAY, NOV. 18 • A LA CARTA • FIRST GOURMET COOKING DEMONSTRATION • CHEF´S TABLE AND WINEMAKER´S NIGHT • GOURMET SAFARI 2 • CHEF´S CLUB LOUNGE
• CHEF´S TABLE AND WINEMAKER´S NIGHT • CHEF´S CLUB LOUNGE
SATURDAY, NOV. 23 • A LA CARTA • STAR CHEF´S DINNER & SHOW • GOURMET & GOLF IN PARADISE PACKAGE • CHEF´S CLUB LOUNGE
DINING OUT 15
www.vallartatribune.com
Introducing Maia By Julie Mongeau
A
t the young age of sixteen Chef Hugo Ahumada began the quest of realizing his dream and passion of becoming a chef. After cooking along side his grandmother during his childhood, he found a way to catch the eye of Chef Thierry Blouet who then gladly accepted him as his apprentice. After years of dedication and perseverance, Hugo became the Executive Chef at Café des Artistes in Puerto Vallarta. The young chef has participated in major events and festivals in St. Moriz, Santiago Chile, London, and Chicago, among others. He proudly won first place
Engage Mexico
in the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) Contest in Mexico and honorable mention for best dish of the contest. Most recently Chef Hugo Ahumada has been chosen to represent Mexico in the Bocuse d’Or 2013. On Tuesday, November 5th, a month before the birth of his daughter, Chef Hugo opened his own restaurant MAIA named after his unborn child. As I passed through the sliding doors of MAIA “Comida Poetica”, its humble décor and artsy atmosphere instantly tantalized my eyes, all the artwork is by a local artist named Tony Collantez. At that moment I could only imagine what my taste buds were about to experience. From the cute white paper bags holding the cutlery neatly bowed with raffia to the recycled wine bottles to be used as plates and bowls, I was already engaged on my tasteful journey. I started my evening with
Andre Bourque Andre @SocialMktgFella, is an associate editor at Technorati Media, and board member at Social Media Today. He is a top-ranked social media marketing and inbound marketing specialist and serves as a copywriter and content marketing
a local Jalisco specialty drink “Basil Jarritos” served in a hand made pottery jar. While sipping my drink the Chef Hugo shared with me the philosophy behind his concept his love of food and his passion for local produce, supporting the local merchants, fisherman and farmers. At MAIA all the food is from Jalisco and Mexico. The menu is based on his daily stroll to the market and the catch of the day, hence there is no set menu. The freshness of the local produce will determine the “Ardoise“ (menu) of the day. Tonight on the menu, amongst other dishes, was a Marlin Enchilada served on a bed of whipped guacamole, Crab with agillo sauce and mushrooms, Beef milanesa with vegetables and pasta and the main course was Beef Short ribs with mashed potatoes and chilli sauce. I left the table with a well-fed belly and very happy taste buds. I also have to underline the fabulous service; Minueth my lovely waitress was very courteous, friendly and attentive. She made me feel right at home, and I can assure you that my experience at MAIA was as poetic as the food and atmosphere exudes. I highly recommend…
Restaurant MAIA, Pulpito 120, Zona Romantica
strategy consultant for several firms and brands. Andre maintains a blog, SocialMarketingFella. com focused on emerging social media industry technologies and trends in the San Francisco Bay Area. “You can feel the pulse of social media in San Francisco. People here don’t taxi, they Uber.
Friday Nov 15 - 21, 2013
Mexican Comfort Food Opens in Galerias
By Madeline Milne he best Mexican comfort food is no different than the best American or Canadian comfort food. It is often simple but filling and made by someone in your family who loves you very much. At de Chile Mole y Pozole that is the type of Mexican comfort food you will find. Owner, Francia Anaya was originally preparing food in her home and using Facebook and word of mouth to generate clients and after two years she has opened the first of many planned ‘tacos de guisado’ restaurants. In partnership with Gabriel Espinoza from the famed Café des Artistes, the plan is to franchise and bring Mexican comfort food to malls across Mexico. Opened in early September, de Chile Mole y Pozole is the only Mexican food served in the Galerias Vallarta food court. Each day the selections are prepared fresh, much as they were in Francia’s kitchen. There are eleven rotating dishes with six being served each day as your choice of tacos, quesadillas or comida style with tortillas and fixings on the side. Options can include a rich, mildly spiced red chicken mole, a gooey chili relleno, oven roasted pork in birria seasonings, beef machaca, chicken pipian and a simple white pozole served with cabbage, lime, and a tangy piquante sauce. Each day has flavoured waters available – the limon-guayaba is both refreshing and palate cleansing. The desserts encourage
you to savour each bite with the soothing sensation of creamy rice pudding, custard of Jerricalla and an arresting gelatin with carrot, nut and pineapple that is really much better than it sounds. My lunch guest is a relative newbie to Mexican cuisine and timid of spices but when asked, she was both satiated and excited to have had the opportunity to taste all of these flavours, “and embark on a Mexican journey of her senses.” One might think to turn their nose up at food court fare but the meals are prepared daily with fresh ingredients, many sourced locally. The cheese in the quesadillas and chile rellenos is from Francia’s family ranch in Talpa (about 2 hours east in the mountains) and the corn in the pozole is harvested in the valleys around Talpa. This attention to detail and obvious pride in their food really does put de Chile Mole y Pozole in a class above the usual mall dining experience. The next time you are in Galerias Vallarta, stop by the restaurant. If you are in a rush everything is available for take-out and of course the next time you need a Mexican fiesta or a rapidly approaching posada catered de Chile Mole y Pozole can take care of the food, so you can concentrate on having a great time!
They don’t ask for directions, they Google it and Foursquare or Facebook check-in when they arrive. Sharing great ideas and building new things doesn’t end at the close of the business day, it continues into your evening Meet-Up, start-up launch party, or hub talk. He will be share some of the
best advances, technologies.
T
de Chile Mole y Pozole Galerias Vallarta Food Court www.dechilemoleypozole.com fb/dcmyp
trends
and
Brian Massey Brian Massey is the Conversion Scientist at Conversion Sciences and he has the lab coat to prove it. His rare combination of interests, experience and neuroses was
NATURE 16
Friday Nov 15 - 21, 2013
www.vallartatribune.com
The diversity of Mexico By Tom Swanson colibridesignvallarta.com
I
t seems appropriate to start the second part of the Diversity in Mexico series with pretty much the same intro we used in part one, the mountains of Mexico and how they have affected the entire country. If Mexico were flattened out, it would cover more of the Earth’s surface than all of Asia. This gives Mexico, between each of those mountain ranges, a vast diversity. Climate, landscape, flora and fauna and even people can change dramatically in a hundred kilometers. The ethnic diversity found here is extraordinary. There are many cultures, that in part exist, almost unchanged, since before the time of the conquest. Puerto Vallarta, of course, is the land of the Huichol. Here, their art and mystic symbolism is on prominent display. To this day, Huichol villages in the rugged mountains north of Tepíc, the capital of Nayarit, retain much of the daily
lifestyle of 500 years ago. About 300 kilometers east of here, in the Sierra Volcanica, or the Volcanic Mountains, a totally different culture can be found, that of the Purépecha. The origin of these people is clouded in mystery. Their language is an isolate; it is not related to any other native Mesoamerican language. It is, however similar to Quechua, the language of the Incas of Peru and many of their neighbors. The word Purépecha means ¨those who arrived late¨. Another mystery, the Purépecha were the only civilization in North America with a knowledge of metalurgy, a Bronze Age culture, like the Incas of South America. And like the Incas, at the time of the Spanish conquest, they had an empire about the size Arizona. That of the Purépecha stretched from the coast of Colima to Lake Chapala and they had
strongly defeated the Aztecs in two very bloody wars. Today, they inhabit the highlands of the modern state of Michoacán. Purépecha culture was and still is centered around Lake Pátzcuaro. The ancient capital of Tzinzunzan still stands on its shore today, though greatly diminished in size. It’s home to the Yácatas, the ruins of ancient ceremonial platforms and buildings constructed like no others on Earth. The Spanish spent over ten years on a war to exterminate the Purépecha. Less than ten years later, Purépecha women, on stolen Spanish horses, led a rebellion that included the complete destruction of the town of Tonalá, Jalisco. Perhaps realizing the futility of trying to snuff out the entire civilization, the Catholic church, in a stroke of genius, sent a priest, the Bishop
KEY DISTRIBUTION POINTS You should be able to find the paper at these locations. If you’ve missed this week’s paper you can always download the current copy at vallartatribune.com La Cruz de Huanacaxtle Oso’s Restaurant Philos Realty Ikuai Restaurant Bucerias DeCameron Resort Global Real Estate Yo-Yo Mo’s Sports Bar
Engage Mexico
Nuevo Vallarta Paradise Village La Estancia Vallarta Adventures Marina RE/MAX Marina Café Cup Casa Velas Hotel Zone Villa del Palmar - Vallarta
Tourist Offices: • Rio Cuale • Main Plaza • Lazaro Cardenas Park American Consulate Canadian Consulate Old Town & Centro Paradise Community Centre Fredy Tucan Restaurant Timothy Real Estate Page in the Sun
Weekend Markets Old Town Farmers Market Saturday Co-Op Market La Cruz Farmers Market
developed over almost 20 years as a computer programmer, entrepreneur, corporate marketer, national speaker and writer. “Conversion” is the process of converting Web traffic to leads and sales, and Conversion Sciences brings this ability to businesses of all sizes.Brian began by developing open source analytics
systems for companies seeking to build their online channels. Brian is a regular speaker and author a columnist. He lives and works in Austin, Texas where life and the Internet are hopelessly entwined.
Alonso Reyes Our local design guru, and
Don Vasco de Quiroga, who initiated a rule of kindness and generosity. He taught the various villages around the lake to make arts and crafts that were then sold to the Mexican and European markets. He became affectionately known to the people as Tata or
grandfather. Today, Pátzcuaro is a very popular cultural center, an official Pueblo Mágico, and host to one of the greatest and most popular celebrations of Día de los Muertos in the world. If you want to experience that, book your lodging about a year in advance!
Banderas Bay Butterfies by Moralea Milne
Slaty Skipper (Chiomara mithrax) Slaty Skippers are also know as Mithrax Spreadwings and truly I could not find out much else about them. Many of the Mexican butterflies have not been comprehensively studied yet or perhaps the studies have not been translated into English. These beautiful small butterflies are from Hesperiidae (Skipper) family of butterflies, many of which are non-descript, brown or grey, and somewhat difficult to tell apart in the field. If you look closely you will see that skippers have antennae that are curved inwards, somewhat like a crochet hook, unlike the rest of the butterfly families, whose antennae are clubbed. The Slaty Skipper is endowed with an imperial robe studded with purple iridescence, an orange hue and black rectangular
designer of Engage Mexico’s look, Alonso Reyes of Graphic Illusion Design Studio is the designer of Riviera Nayarit logo many of the region’s remarkable brands, festivals including National Forum of Tourism Riviera Maya, Senor Frogs’s Mandala, Xtine, Punto V, La Patrona Polo Club, Garza
markings. I saw this at the Vallarta Botanical Gardens in August and apparently it lays its eggs on plants of the Malpighiaceae family. These are trees, shrubs and vines that often have flowers with petals that are fringed or clawed. The caterpillars are small and green with a black head covered in yellow spots (I counted seven!).
TRAVEL
www.vallartatribune.com
17
Friday Nov 15 - 21, 2013
Yelapa: From rustic to luxurious, but mostly just away from it all By Madeline Milne
F
or years, the tiny fishing village of Yelapa was a hidden paradise where new agers, artists and the dreadlocked young went in search of peace, quiet, and freedom from the masses; a town with no road access and limited cell phone service. Recently, the more mainstream travelers have started arriving, on a water taxi from the Los Muertos pier in Puerto Vallarta, some just for the day, some for a night or two, and others who arrive and never really leave. The panga ride between Puerto Vallarta and Yelapa, from one end of Banderas Bay to the other, takes forty-five minutes. Behind where the boats land are a string of beach front restaurants, brightly coloured, immensely charming tropical get-aways, and a village of steep paths, randomly laid out and somehow leading back into each other. This town of about 2,000 remains much the same as it did ten to fifteen years ago, albeit with some new, larger houses built by foreigners. Because the small town is hemmed in between jungle and ocean, Yelapa has no roads or cars, but there is decent cell coverage and internet is fairly standard in most rental places. Accommodations run the gamut from delightfully luxurious to rustic and adventurous. The beaches of Yelapa are for the most part confined to one large beach in the center of the bay. It can be busy with the arrival of day-trippers, but the sand is lovely and the cervesa is cold. If you have a few days, you might want to contemplate some easy adventure destinations. About five minutes from Yelapa is what is known as the ‘small’ waterfall, which at this time of year is really rather impressive. We were there on a Sunday afternoon and the small restaurant/ bar was packed with locals drinking beer and listening to music. Maybe not as tranquil as some would like but definitely a cultural
Engage Mexico Blanca Resort and Marival Resort. His experience in the field and the local area brings a perspective as a visual innovator that helps to grow recognizable brands in the region. He works to develop and implement marketing strategies for an
juxtaposition that made me tap my toes. Renting a horse and cowboying up to the ‘large’ waterfall is a wonderful two to three hour return trip, crossing rivers and charging up cliffs. The trek can be done on foot and a local told me she does it regularly in about forty-five minutes. Our horses needed no direction or guidance, each clearly having done this trip before. Along the way you pass cabins nestled into the jungle, homes and farmland. It is a wonderful glimpse into the everyday life of rural Mexico. Once you reach the end of the trail you will navigate through a fence and walk about ten minutes through the jungle to the cascade. There are stairs cut into the cliff to descend to the water. Use them – carefully. The water is cool and comes down with a huge force. The little cove is safe to paddle around and the rocks along the bank are a great place to catch some sun and dry off for the trip back. Pack a camera, snack, and wear your swimsuit, no baños to change in here! Back in the town there are some cute little cafes and interesting shops to explore. There are breakfast spots, taco stands, and restaurants open for the evening. While I was visiting, the host of our B&B cooked up a delicious coconut curry dinner for guests, as well as couple of local people who dropped by. The laid
back casualness of the whole experience was an easy way to meet new people and share stories. (El Jardin Eco-Resort) If you have a few more days, there are some great day trips to be had out of Yelapa, including heading to Los Marietas Islands for a snorkel through an underwater cave to a ‘hidden’ beach, the chance to see the famous blue-footed booby, and if the water goddess is on your side, maybe some humpback whales, dolphins, turtles and manta rays. There are other car-free towns along the Bay that are easily accessible from Yelapa, including Quimixo and Las Animas. Mostly though, Yelapa is a chance to let it all go. The paths are too convoluted to text and walk. This is the place to sit back,
éjà trois mois depuis mon arrivée et je suis toujours essoufflée, je n’en reviens pas du train de vie qu’on peut mener Puerto Vallarta. J’arrive d’une grande ville ou tout le monde cours après le temps, et moi qui se croyais avoir les deux pieds dans le sable, je me retrouve une paire d’espadrilles afin de ne rien manquer. Les évènements, les festivals, l’Art Walk sont tous entamés, on
ne peut être à court d’idées afin de s’occuper. J’ai eu la chance de voir l’ouverture d’une pièce de danse au The Boutique PV nommé FOSSE, ce petit théâtre caché à l’entrée du Tunnel est un petit cachet qui au courant de la saison nous gâtera de spectacles et d’activités ouvert à tous. Le fameux Old Town Farmers Market qui a trouvé un nouveau domicile au Parque Lazaro
array of business needs and growth opportunities. @graphicillusion
marketing and social business at conferences and as a corporate trainer around the world. She has written four books and blogs atJanetFouts.com and Tatudigital.com with actionable business advice for today’s social business. Janet has been involved in online community for over 15 years. She is an
active participant in San Francisco Women on the Web (Director 2000-2001), Women in Technology, Silicon Valley American Marketing Association, Green & Sustainability Innovators & Innovation Network, and the Social Media Club as well as several industry groups.
Janet Fouts Janet Fouts is Founder and CEO of Tatu Digital Media, a San Jose Digital Marketing Agency. Janet consults on the topics of digital
relax with a book, indulge in delicious fresh seafood and wonderful homemade pies; to reach a little further into nature and exercise your body and relax your mind.
From the adventurous to the hammock-hog, Yelapa is a place that will soon have people saying, “It’s the (insert town you missed out on) of twenty years ago.”
La vie au paradis.
D
Cardenas, tous les samedis de 9:30 a 14:00, et si jamais vous avez les pieds engourdis d’une journée à la plage pourquoi pas faire le tour des galléries d’art le Mercredi soir de 18:00 a 22:00. N’oubliez pas si jamais vous avez des trucs à me faire part il me fera plaisir d’être à votre lecture. Bon bain de soleil juliemongeau@gmail.com
SPORTS
Friday Nov 15 - 21, 2013
18
www.vallartatribune.com
Some random thoughts from the Tribune Sports Desk By Joel Hansen
A
t the time of this writing El Tri is getting ready for their last gasp desperation qualifier verses New Zealand and my good friend Aldo from Guadalajara just emailed me a photo of himself in All Whites gear. He wrote “No importa quien gane estoy cubierto jajajaja pinche El Tri que no lo merecen!” Which roughly translated means that he is covered no matter what and then something unflattering about the home squad and how they don’t deserve it. It should prove some real drama win or lose as the new head coach Miguel Herrera has elected to go with only domestic players, a throwback strategy that will be judged harshly if it backfires. No Carlos Vela, no Guillermo Ochoa or Gio dos Santos and no “Chicharito” Instead a bunch of call ups from the Americas team Herrera guided to the domestic championship last year. The coach is on record as saying that El Tri will win 3-0 today, here’s hoping so, it will be pretty dreary around this country in a year from now when the rest of the world is in Brazil and Mexico is watching from the sidelines. Ritchie Incognito is a dirtbag. That is all. Don’t look now but both the Philadelphia Flyers and the Philadelphia Eagles have won two straight games. I am sure that Philly local, Chase Bucker, has the parade route mapped out up Basilio Badillio, along Insurgentes, down Lazaro Cardenas and finishing at Los Muertos Brew Pub where the pints will be on him. In Liga De Softball de Puerto Vallarta action last night yours truly hit a two out, three run
homer. However the mighty Marineros still lost by a half dozen runs, with a few of those courtesy of my throwing error, but in the end it was nothing that three or four Modelo Especials didn’t solve. Georges St-Pierre will defend his title vs Johny Hendricks this Saturday night. There have been some great recent fights in the MMA, and I hope this one lives up to the hype. I know I am Canadian and it is a national sin to criticize St-Pierre, but to be honest I don’t like him as a fighter. I find his style boring, sure it is technically sound, yes his balance and takedown defence are the best ever, but honestly, he bores me to tears, hopefully Hendricks will take the action to St-Pierre and force him to engage. I am looking forward to the next Cornhole tournament at El Rio BBQ, I have enlisted my 12 year old son as my new partner. Back a few years this father/son partnership participated in a similar tourney and the boy won our team a gift basket full of wine with a final inning hole out. I happily accepted
on his behalf, and I am hoping that lighting strikes twice. Happy to see that John Ferrell didn’t win the MLB Manager of the Year award, although it did go to a former Red Sox manager who also beat the Cardinals in the World Series. Bobby Orr has just released a new book. In it, he still refuses to discuss his relationship with disgraced agent Alan Eagleson. I recently heard Don Cherry tell a story about Orr’s last years with Boston when Jeremy Jacobs, the owner of the team, offered Orr an 18% stake in the Bruins ownership. Unfortunately Orr’s loyalty to Eagleson blinded him and he rejected the deal and signed with Chicago. Of course, after he retired he found out that he was broke and that Eagleson had defrauded him of most of his wealth. Ok the sound just got turned up on all the TVs and the players are taking the pitch. I will talk to you next week, where we will discuss how bad the Cowboys are (I mean 40 first downs!?!?) why Nick Foles
Spca de Pv Adorable Dog In The Spotlight... Bart
T
his is one guy determined to be rescued by the SPCA! His tenacity paid off and now we need to find him his fur-ever home. Bart, or Bartolo, showed up at the Sanctuary in poor condition suffering from malnutrition. Both our quarantine and intake areas
were full so we had no choice but to leave him outside where he seemed quite happy. We furnished him with a dog house, food and water. Bart even started accompanying everyone on their walks. We took care of his health and vaccinated him and he was
soon scheduled to be neutered. Well then the rains started and we had our first big storm. Next morning he was missing and continued to be missing. We assumed he was scared of the lighting and thunder and in his panic may have gotten lost. Everyone was sear-
is the NFL MVP and the finer points of tossing a beanbag into a hole from 27 feet away while
holding an ice cold cerzeza, while eating a rib and not get any BBQ sauce on your shirt.
ching for him and very worried. Finally about a week later he showed up and we could not get him inside fast enough. Bart is about two years old and is a beautiful Boxer-Labrador mix. He gets along with the general population and loves to play tug of war and, at about 23 kilos, usually wins!
Now he needs a permanent family to play with. Please contact us at spcapv@gmail.com.
charities
www.vallartatribune.com
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 Alcoholics Anonymous:
AA meetings (and Al-anon, NA, CODA, OA, ARTS) in English Puerto Vallarta Alanon Club Basilio Badillo 329 - interior - col. Emiliano Zapata recoverpv.com 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
19
Friday Nov 15 - 21, 2013
Non-Profit and Charitable Organizations in Bucerias. 16 de Septiembre at calle Matamoros www.buceriasbilingualcommunitycenter.org Casa Hogar - A shelter dedicated to improving the lives of orphaned, abandoned, disadvantaged or vulnerable children.- Contact: Luz Aurora Arredondo at 221-1908, Rita Millan (322) 141-6974. casamaximocornejo@gmail.com
single mothers Candelaria 143 Col. Barrio Santa María Phone: 22 343 11 or 22 225 72 www.facebook.com/ desayunosninosvallarta Discapacitados de Vallarta, A.C. (DIVAC) association of handicapped individuals dedicated to helping one another. - Contact: Ivan Applegate at 221-5153.
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
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
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
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.
Desayunos para los Niños de Vallarta A.C. Feeding programs, education programs, day care centers for
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 – The goal of this registered charitable organization is to rescue abandoned/ abused animals, sterilize and find homes for them. For more information contact them via email at spcapv@gmail.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
EVENTS
www.vallartatribune.com
Mijo! Brands Launches New Website
M
ijo! Brands, the brand strategy agency, launches its new website as part of its 5th anniversary of its founding in Puerto Vallarta. One of the most respected agencies in town, Mijo has created some of Puerto Vallarta’s most recognizable brands including GayPV magazine, Timothy Real Estate and Almar Resort. Mijo! Brands continues to promote Puerto Vallarta through many top initiatives that build on the tourist industries success.
South Side Shuffle returns November 15th! Starting Friday the 15th of November, the beautiful bougainvillea-lined street of Basilio Badillo in the heart of Puerto Vallarta’s Old Town will begin the 2013-2014 season with a night filled with music and friends. The always bustling street transforms into a sensory delight from 6 to 10pm wheny will find musicians wandering up and down the street while eighteen businesses offer beverages along with a festive shopping environment. The South Side Shuffle takes place every other Friday through April 4th, so do not miss it!
Friday Nov 15 - 21, 2013
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
Consumer Protection: 01.800.468.8722 Tourism Offices Jalisco: 322.221.2676 Nayarit: 322.297.1006
Consulates American Consulate Nuevo Vallarta: 322.222.0069 24 hrs Guadalajara: 333.268.2145 Immigration: 322.224.7719
Canadian Consulate 322.293.2894 24 hrs: 1.800.706.2900
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
20
La Palapa Pulpito#103, Playa los Muertos” 322.222.5225 Mon-Sun 8:00am 1:00pm
INTERNATIONAL FRIENDSHIP CLUB TOURS
HOME TOURS BOTANICAL GARDENS & ZOO TOURS Tours operate November to April. See our web site for details.
ifctoursforvallarta.com or call (322) 222 5466
Benito’s Paninoteca Bar Nima Bay, Local 12, “Marina Vallarta” 322.209.0287
Encore Lazaro Cardenas51, Bucerias 329.298.0140 Wed-Mon 9:00 am 10:00 pm
El Patio de mi Casa Guerrero 311 esq. Matamoros 322.222.0743
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
CLASSIFIEDS
Friday Nov 15 - 21, 2013
21
www.vallartatribune.com
IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS
UROLOGIST Dr. Pedro López Cueto Tel. (322) 22 5 11 83 www.anku.com.mx
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.
Havre No.111 Col. Versalles Fluent Englis Spoken
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
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
El Rio BBQ Bar Felipe Angeles 245 Col Paso Ancho 322.184.1200 Tue-Sun 11:00 am 7:00pm
Philo’s Delfin15, La Cruz de Huanacaxle”329.295.5068 Thu-Sat 8:30 pm
Las Adelitas Av. Fluvial Vallarta 234 322.293.7778
El Dorado Pulpito # 102, Playa los Muertos”322.222.4124 Que? Pasa Aquiles Serdan 625, Col Emiliano Zapata 322.223.4006
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
Nacho Daddy
180 Basilio Badillo nachodaddymexico.com
Emergency Phone for Sayulita
ERIK A. FULFER, D.C. CHIROPRACTOR Quality affordable chiropractic care at your: Home, Office, Resort or Spa by appointment only Mon-Wed-Fri 10am to 6pm
Call Now! 322 182 5045 Vonage (404) 719 4744
bahiachiro@gmail.com www.bahiachiropractic.com
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. Emergency number: 066 Police, Bucerias & La Cruz: 298-1020 Civil Protection (Fire, Ambulance): 291-0295 Ambulance, Santa Rosa Clinic: 298-0157
BRAIN TEASERS
Friday Nov 15 - 21, 2013
SUDOKU easy
22
www.vallartatribune.com
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
Number Blocks
hard
Word Search
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.
Can you find the hidden words? They may be horizontal, vertical, diagonal, forwards or backwards. AIRBED, BACKPACK, BATTERIES, BINOCULARS, CAMPFIRE, CAN OPENER, CANVAS, COMPASS, FIRELIGHTER, FIRST AID KIT, FLASK, FOOD, FUEL, GRIDDLE, GROUNDSHEET, HIKING BOOTS, KINDLING, LANTERN, MAPS, MOSQUITO NET, PANS, PEDOMETER, POTS, ROPE, STOVE, TENT, TINDER, TOOLS, TORCH, WATER.
1. Olive - Orange - Fig 2. Doors - Paintings - Eye Glasses 3. Picnic - Pool - Coffee 4. Rose - Potato - Taste 5. The Olympics - Leap Year - Presidential Elections 6. Masking - Red - Duct 7. Index - Pinky - Ring 8. Ice - Sugar - Rubik’s 9. Jurors - Roses - Doughnuts 10. Seat - Whoopee – Pin
Commonym 8 Answers 1. trees 2. they have frames 3. tables 4. buds 5. happen every 4 years 6. tape 7. fingers 8. cubes 9. they come in dozens 10. cushions
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!
Wuzzle 8 Answers 1. Last Dance 2. For Crying Out Loud 3. Inground Pool 4. No TV for a Week 5. High Frequency 6. Sit Ups
Commonym
Wuzzles
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.
TIZOC COMIDA MEXICANA
Authentic Mexican Food! Seafood & Steaks Mention this ad for ONE GUACAMOLE per table with dinner
Olas Altas 474 , Romantic Zone Reservations 222 8382
Francisco I Madero # 202, corner Pino Suarez, Emiliano Zapata Olas Altas Reservations 222 6593 www.latiavallarta.com e-mail latiavallarta@hotmail.com
Sites Marina
El Tigre Villa For Sale Located on the 10th Tee
The Best Price $/m2 in El Tigre Fully Furnished 4 Beds 4.5 Baths This stunning home includes maids quarters, stunning kitchen and majestic living room that looks on to a glorious pool and outdoor entertainment area. Enjoy magnificent golf course and heavenly views from this divine residence. If you are looking for a Million dollar home, but not the price, this is your only option.
www.remaxinpv.com