Issue 869, Nov 29 - Dec 5, 2013.

Catch us online @ vallartatribune.com

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Banderas Bay

butterflies beyond beauty

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Nov 29 - Dec 5, 2013 Free Issue 869

Giving Back

HOPE´S CHILDREN

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Art & Culture

jose clemente orozco

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Photo by Steven Afonso

Welcome

Friday Nov 29 - Dec 5, 2013 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 Sales Team Ma. Yolanda Meza yoly@vallartatribune.com Rebeca Castellón rebeca.castellonn@gmail.com Community Manager Julie Mongeau juliemongeau@gmail.com Designer Cynthia E. 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

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

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

of is of in

BUSES: A system of urban buses with different routes can bring you from one end of the bay to the other and all the spots in between. Current fare is $6.50 pesos per ticket and passengers must purchase a new ticket every time they board another bus.

There are no “transfers”.

TAXIS: There are set rates within defined zones of town. Do not enter a taxi without agreeing on the price with the driver first. Price is per trip not person.

MONEY EXCHANGE: Although you may have to wait in line for a few minutes, banks will give you a higher rate of exchange than the exchange booths (caja de cambio). You will need your passport. Better yet, use your bank card to withdraw funds from any ATM machine.

Note that ATM’s in the banks are the safest to use and generally charge lower fees.

DRINKING WATER: For the 17th year in a row, Puerto Vallarta’s water has been awarded a certification of purity for human consumption. The quality of the water tested at the purification plant varies greatly from what comes out of the tap at the other end. So do be careful. If you want to be doubly sure, you can pick up bottled water just about anywhere.

EXPORTING PETS: Fall in love

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

COMMON SENSE: Just as you wouldn’t walk around your hometown drunk and beligerent, it is not acceptable to do that here. While Mexicans are a forgiving bunch, basic politeness is appreciated.

For the guys, peeing in public is a major faux pas and if you are caught, can get you tossed in jail or an expensive fine. Pay attention to your surroundings. Pay your bills. Be courteous. And have fun!

DRINKING AND DRIVING: First off – just don’t. The consequences are not worth it. Taxis are cheap and plentiful. Fines are as much as 10,000 pesos. You can be taken to jail and your vehicle impounded.

There are many checkstops on the weekends and you will be asked to blow if they suspect you have been drinking.

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

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

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

Long-distance calls from within Mexico For national long-distance calls (within Mexico) the code is 01 plus the area code and phone number. For international long-distance calls, first dial 00, then the country code (for the U.S. and Canada the country code is 1, so you would dial 00 + 1 + area code + 7 digit number).

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

Phone Cards Phone cards (“tarjetas telefonicas”) for use in pay phones can be bought at newstands and in pharmacies in denominations of 30, 50 and 100 pesos. Pay phones do not accept coins. When buying a phone card for pay phone use, specify that you would like a “tarjeta LADA,” because pre-paid cell phone cards are also sold in the same establishments.

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

You need to dial a different prefix.

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

Emergencies: 060 Red Cross: 065 Non-Emergency Police 322.290.0507 Fire Department: 322.223.9476 Ambulance: 322.222.1533 Consulates American Consulate Nuevo Vallarta: 322.222.0069 24 hrs Guadalajara: 333.268.2145

Immigration: 322.224.7719 Consumer Protection: 01.800.468.8722 Tourism Offices Jalisco: 322.221.2676 Nayarit: 322.297.1006 Canadian Consulate 322.293.2894 24 hrs: 1.800.706.2900

Editorial

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Hola Amigos!

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slightly stuffed, Happy Thanksgiving to you! This week the Vallarta Tribune is filled to the brim, not unlike our social calendars. High season, sorry winter season, has definitely arrived. An exercise program is high on my list of things to do, soon. We are thrilled to introduce a new editorial contributor, Jean Martin. She is Mexican-American and has lived in Puerto Vallarta for the past four years. Jean is a therapist and will be writing on the many different topics of therapy available to the residents and visitors of the bay. Sometimes we need a little more than a couple glasses of wine and a sunset and that’s ok. Jean is a great resource and really lovely woman. As you flip through the pages, please visit her column and send her a note to welcome her to the Tribune. Also, let me know, is there something else you’d like to see on these pages?

If you’ve been reading the paper over the past eight months inevitably you have seen the many changes we have implemented. From our local contributors bringing you weekly tales from the neighbourhoods of Puerto Vallarta to the many advertisers that support our efforts, this paper is now not only relevant to both visitors and residents alike, but it offers an interesting cross-section of life in Banderas Bay. New advertisers like El Rio BBQ restaurant and Plaza Caracol are excellent examples of businesses that are well-worth knowing.

While a little off the beaten path, the river setting and all-youcan-eat bbq buffet at El Rio is one of the best deals in town, and Plaza Caracol is a great place to shop for shoes, shoes and more shoes while also fixing your computer, paying your cable bill and picking up groceries.

From local and national news to profiles of residents, renowned artists, hidden towns, cultural events and more, it’s our intention to provide you, valued reader, with the information you need to live like an insider.

Please take a moment to support our advertisers as ultimately they make this paper possible and also consider supporting the many events around town.

We will be around town this weekend, attending events, supporting local artists and trying a margarita or two. Hope to see you out and about.

Madeline.

Cruise Ship Arrivals

Ahoy! Welcome to Puerto Vallarta

LEGEND OF THE SEAS RCCL 1804 STATENDAM HOLLAND 1266 CARNIVAL MIRACLE CARNIVAL 2680

30/11/2013 01/12/2013 04/12/2013

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Friday Nov 29 - Dec 5, 2013

the Home Tour or the Sculpture Tour on Tuesday mornings.

Learn to Dance. There are many different rhythms and places to take up salsa, tango, danzon or ballroom dancing. Moving always generates endorphins that help you feel in touch with your body and emotions (usually just the good ones) and it is also a great way to meet other people.

Take Field Trips. There are so many quaint little towns that are fun and only an hour or so from Puerto Vallarta (depending on where you are staying). Bucerias, Sayulita, San Pancho, Punta Mita and of course the famous historical San Sebastian, originally a mining town that has preserved its authenticity and Haciendas.

Learn a little Spanish. We are in Mexico! Whether you are here for a week or live here on a semiannual basis, it’s worth a try. Locals will normally respond in English but they are appreciative of someone willing to give it a shot, besides bilingual people are less prone to Alzheimer’s.

In the Know 3 A local weekly guide to places, people and things

Jean Martin

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Watch the Sunset from the Heights. While anywhere in town is fabulous, seeing it from above is breathtaking. There are many great places to go for a drink or dinner while you overlook the city, the ocean, and say good-bye to another wonderful day such as Casa Isabel, Vista Grill, El Set, Lindo Mar, just to mention a few.

Get in Shape while Sightseeing.

A friend of mine once told me that he had lost several pounds by just walking through town. There are many opportunities to have fun while you’re at it, like the Southside Shuffle on Fridays at Basilio Badillo (walk through the street visiting galleries and restaurants), the Art Walk on Wednesdays or join a tour like the IFC’s Botanical Gardens,

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Around town with Julie Fabulous fandango show free for the public

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he fabulous stage show, Fandango brings together theater, dance and music in a beautiful Mexican cultural framework. With more than 40 artists and dancers, Fandango will now be offered free to the public.

An emotionally-rich show, Fandango has Mexicans and Mexican-lovers alike swelling with pride.

Developed in Jalisco, the show celebrates prototypical Jalisco traditions such as tequila, mariachis and charreria. The musical weaves through the ages from pre-Hispanic myths to modern day Mexico, all while accompanied by a live mariachi band. Present

yourself 40 minutes before the show with a copy of photo ID (only 1 entry per person). Tickets are limited. The free shows run now thru December 31, 2013. The show starts at 6:30 Wednesday thru Sunday.

Intended for couples, children, adults, local and tourists, the show can be enjoyed by everyone. The sole purpose of the courtesy ticketing is to expand the entertainment value of one of Mexico’s most beautiful destinations – Puerto Vallarta. Teatro Vallarta is located at Uruguay #184, Colonia 5 de Diciembre. # (322) 222 4225 – 225 5381. www.teatrovallarta.com

Art is in the air everywhere I go.

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n Thursday, November 21st the Instituto Municipal de Atencion a la Juventud inaugurated the first of twelve parks to get a facelift. Maze Wayz, the founder of Living Dreams, along with five other talented artists; Ernesto Garrigos, Mara Diaz, Oscar Hyle, Roy Camacho and Wero Montero, donated their time and creativity to for the new mural at the basketball courts behind Park Hidalgo on the corner of Juarez and Argentina.

“Living dreams consists of young local Puerto Vallarta artists working their craft alongside one

and other, sharing a deep dedication to all art forms and styles, with the intention to create unity between artists, benefiting the local art and music scene. In other words, invest in art and education for the future of young artists.”

Maze Wayz.

On Wednesday I joined in on the Art Walk and met artist Al Garvey who was revealing his Sueños de Arboles collection. The Colourful Dream with Trees series will be showing for the next two weeks at Galeria Uno. After art gazing I went to Nacho Daddy’s to take part in a charity bingo game,

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Read. What a cliché but why not try something different than what you are used to? Check out a Page in the Sun or head to the recycled book shelves.

See the Whales. It’s been said before but if there were only one thing to recommend this would definitely be it. The incredible experience of being so close to their grandeur takes my breath away making it a spiritual experience every time I go.

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Jean Martin is a bilingual psychotherapist that lives full time in Puerto Vallarta.

Tel: 322 1416731 pv.psychotherapy@gmail.com

I didn’t get to scream “Bingo” out loud as I was hoping to, but it was absolutely worth my time and donations, especially knowing that all proceeds were going to a worthy cause; the Colina Spay and Neuter clinic. And finally on a ‘fill my belly’ note, last Sunday I discovered a gem, El Rio BBQ restaurant, a beautiful setting, surrounded by the river and sheer rock face, I ate a succulent all-youcan-eat buffet which included the house specialty, slow smoked BBQ ribs.

Eat you heart out and bring moist napkins, because you will need them! Remember I’m always up for events, please keep me posted!

Juliemongeau@gmail.com

MEXICO NEWS

Friday Nov 29 - Dec 5, 2013

BUSINESS NEWS

VivaAerobus will order 52 A320 airplanes from Airbus for some 5.2 billion euros. Delivery of the aircraft will start in April 2014 and should replace all the Mexican airline’s Boeings that are currently operating by 2016.

Yamaha Motors, the Japanese motor vehicle manufacturer, is currently investing 5% of its income in research and development in Mexico, launching four new models.

Pemex chose Singapore’s Keppel to build a shipyard in the port of Altamira, in the Gulf of Mexico, for some 400 million dollars. Mexico’s state oil company signed a memorandum of understanding with the Eximbank of Korea, to open a new 2 billion-dollar credit line to fund several projects.

Odebrecht will invest 8.1 billion dollars in Mexico over the next five years, specifically in the petrochemical, agri-food, renewable energies and infrastructure sectors.

The Brazilian conglomerate plans to create 20,000 direct jobs and 60,000 indirect jobs by 2016.

Mabe, the Mexican household appliance manufacturer, will invest more than 100 million dollars in 2013.

Televisa will launch VEO, its video streaming platform, to penetrate the market in which Netflix, Claro and Cinépolis Klic compete.

FINANCIAL NEWS Mexico’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) will grow by 1.43% in 2013, down from the previous estimate of 1.78%. However, the national economy will grow by 2% in the second half of the year, almost twice that of the first half, according to forecasts by the Bank of Mexico (Banxico).

Mexico is the seventh most attractive investment destination for the coming years, according to a report from the United

Nations Conference on Trade and Development (Unctad).

The growth rate of Mexico’s imports and exports will remain at 7% and 8% annually, respectively, from 2013 to 2030, according to the “HSBC Global Connection Trade Forecast.”

Mexico is ranked fifth globally in the franchise market; in the last five years alone, 811 new franchise developments were recorded in the country, contributing with 941 billion pesos in income, according to statistics by the Mexican Franchise Association (AMF).

Organic product sales in Mexico will reach 259 million dollars in 2013 and 373 million dollars in 2015, according to estimates by Euromonitor.

TOURISM IN MEXICO Aeromexico, Mexico’s global airline, announced new seasonal services from New York City to Puerto Vallarta and Los Cabos as of January 16th and 18th of 2014.

These new routes and frequencies will be served with 160-seat Boeing 737-800 airplanes, to develop a new and strong link between leading Mexican tourist destinations and the United States. Aeromexico will offer 42 weekly flights from New York, strengthening its extensive global network and increase its seat offerings to provide additional connectivity options and expand tourist travel to Mexico.

Annual income from medical tourism in Mexico exceeds 122 million dollars, according to estimates by the National Tourism Commission of the Mexican Federation of Employers (Coparmex).

Mexico received 16 million international tourists between January and August 2013, who left an economic spillover of 9.366 billion dollars, 0.8% more than in the same period of 2012, according to data from Banxico.

Explore Banderas Bay Shopping in the Zona Romantica – this charming neighbourhood is also called Old Town and is a popular residential area for expats and Mexican families.

Along the main streets you will find shops galore, filled with wonderful

authentic crafts, clothing, jewelry, excellent restaurants, spas, theaters and more. Vibrant and friendly, this area offers an excellent day or two (or more!) of exploring. Close to Los Muertos beach, consider ending your day with a sunset

Mexico in International News “How oil reforms could trigger Mexico’s biggest economic boom in a century,” Forbes, 01/10/2013 Why would the oil and gas reforms be so significant to Mexico?

Because of all the oil and gas it could unlock, and the vast wealth that could be created in the process. According to government estimates, Mexico contains proven, probable and possible reserves of more than 45 billion barrels of oil and in excess of 500 trillion cubic feet of natural gas.

“Mexican pension funds,

reforms fuel record stock listings,” Reuters, 04/10/2013 From airlines to banks, Mexican companies have raised 9.8 billion dollars this year –more cash than the previous four years combined.

That is just 1.1 billion dollars shy of the total issuance in regional powerhouse Brazil, which has an equity market more than twice the size of Mexico’s, during the same period.

“Mexico takes on new roles in outsourcing,” Forbes, 28/10/2013 Mexico is fast becoming a major player in the “nearshoring” sector for tech and business process exporting. With more than 600,000 people already working in information technologies (IT) and another 65,000 new professionals graduating each year from the country’s technical and engineering schools, the US’s southern neighbor is already home to more than 2,000 IT companies.

margarita at any of the many beachfront restaurants.

Sunsets on the Malecon - Sitting on the edge of the Pacific Ocean never fails to give us a sunset each night. Grab a seat at any of the number of excellent bars and restaurants along the malecon,

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Obituary

Remembering Ann Lafferty

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nn R. Lafferty (nee Alexander) age 68 years of Covington, KY and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico passed away peacefully from a long illness on November 20, 2013.

Ann was born in Old Forge, Pennsylvania, where she graduated as Valedictorian of her senior class in 1963. She enrolled in Pennsylvania State University, achieving the Presidency of both Mortar Board and Alpha Xi Delta sorority, and graduating as an Honors student and recipient of the Dean’s Cup in the Business College in 1967.

Following graduation she was recruited to join the fledgling Systems Division at the Procter & Gamble Company in Cincinnati, where she was employed for 20 years. In her spare time she volunteered and contributed to many charitable activities with a focus on education and gardening.

She was an active and valued member of the Cincinnati Woman’s Club, College Club of Cincinnati, Alpha Xi Delta Alumni, Civic Garden Center, Herb Society, Navy League Puerto Vallarta, Toys for Tots, the Peter Gray Museum of Art and many other organizations.

Ann worked tirelessly for

the children of Puerto Vallarta through the Toys for Tots program and the Peter Gray Museum’s children’s education program. Ann was also particularly fond of gardening, was a Master Gardener, and known for the cottage garden she tended for many years at her former home in Clifton, and the tropical garden at her home in Puerto Vallarta.

She was also an avid traveler, particularly to Italy, her ancestral homeland, and Latin America where she lived for over 20 years with her husband in Venezuela and Mexico.

Ann was the beloved wife of Jerome Lafferty for 44 years, and loving daughter of Rocco (deceased) and Rita Alexander and sister of Joan Alexander, all of Old Forge, Pennsylvania.

Celebrations of Ann’s life will be scheduled in the near future in Cincinnati, Old Forge, and Puerto Vallarta. In memory of Ann, please send a flower to a friend.

Memorial gifts are suggested to Hospice of Cincinnati, 4360 Cooper Road, Cincinnati 45242, the Cincinnati Woman’s Club Scholarship Fund, 330 Lafayette Avenue, Cincinnati 45220, or to the charity of your choice .

Condolences at hodappfuneralhome.com

El Foco Summary This week on El Foco we were joined by the very busy ladies of the Los Mangos public library, Adriana and Angélica. We talked about the library’s 17th anniversary, and how it has turned in to such an essential and inclusive part of cultural life in Vallarta. The library will be participating in and hosting a series of fun and interesting events during the next two weeks: art and dance exhibitions, fundraising shows, conferences, sales, and other fun activities. Visit them on facebook for their full calendar of events.

Listen in every Monday at 4:00 pm (4:50 pm for the English summary) on C7Radio 91.9fm, or follow us on twitter @C7ElFoco to learn more about the civil society of Puerto Vallarta.

order your favourite cocktail and let it all slip away. Once the sun has set, the malecon comes alive with families out for a stroll, plenty of live entertainment and later in the night, the nightclubs beckon.

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NEWS

Friday Nov 29 - Dec 5, 2013

Jalisco takes steps to increase food safety and eradicate hunger

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ith an objective of achieving better food safety in the state, the Government of Jalisco’s Ministy of Development and Social Integration (SEDIS) plans to undertake vital actions to increase food access and availability to the people who need it most. Thirty-nine community kitchens were officially launched during a ceremony headed by the state’s governor, Jorge Aristoteles Sandoval Diaz.

The head of SEDIS, Salvador Rizo Castelo stressed that the community dining facilities are part of the program on food safety and accessibility. There has been 13,249,440 pesos allotted to the

soup kitchens and divvied up to the mayors of 24 municipalities – 20 in the interior of the state and 4 in the metropolitan area. “The community kitchens help bring food to people living in poverty who are exceedingly vulnerable. They are a means to increase food safety, eradicate hunger, stop child malnutrition and offer greater food availability to those without adequate resources, “ said Castelo Rizo .

He added that food is a universal right as recognized by the Mexican Constitution, as well as the Social Development Act of Jalisco.

Despite this, there are 1,627,986 people in the state of Jalisco with no access to food – the equiva-

lent of 22% of the state’s population. This sad statistic puts Jalisco third in terms of hungry people in Mexico.

“Within the six indicators of social deprivation that integrate poverty, the lack of access to food did not advance and in fact suffered setbacks in the period ranging from 2008 to 2010. Far from improving, 345,644 more people have joined the ranks of those living with hunger in Jalisco,” said the secretary.

The Government of Jalisco’s feeding strategy is set by the Food Security program and involves the DIF Jalisco, Secretary of Education ( SE), Food Bank and SEDIS. There has been a promised investment of $442,348,199 pesos benefiting 469,656 people in vulnerable situations.

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Puerto Vallarta recieves federal funding for road work and cultural projects

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fter lobbying efforts by Puerto Vallarta’s Mayor Ramón Guerrero Martínez to the Federal Congress, the city has received more than 70 million pesos earmarked for Vallarta in the federal budget. Of these funds, 29 million will go toward paving roads, announced the mayor. “I think these are important projects for the city and most importantly, the majority of resources are for roads- helping make our city better as the next year approaches,” said the mayor .

He explained that among the resources tagged by Congress are 9 million pesos for the construction of sports facilities and 7 million pesos for the realization of a cultural project for next year, as is the International Pyrotechnics Festival being hosted by the city.

Among the achievements of this newly appropriated budget,

he said, is an increase to the metropolitan’s fund to 47 million pesos. Half of these funds will go to Puerto Vallarta and the remainder will be dispersed throughout the Banderas Bay. In the case of Vallarta, the resources will be applied to projects focused on Avenida Mexico.

Guerrero Martinez stressed that this financial allocation is only the first step in receiving resources next year. Puerto Vallarta is also part of the state budget and participates in various efforts to have funds allocated to local projects beneficial to the city by the larger entity of the state of Jalisco. .

“We have passed the first phase. Next comes the seeking of additional funding for proposed projects in the pipeline. These projects are submitted to different financial entities in order to amplify the potential for funding” he said.

Banderas Bay Butterfies

by Moralea Milne

Common Melwhite (Melete lycimnia)

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ommon Melwhites can be found throughout much of Mexico, although they appear to be missing in the drier central sections of the country.

When closed, the hind wings are a beautiful clear yellow while the forewings are white to cream with a yellow underwing tip, the open or topside surface is white to cream. Their yellow eggs are laid in groups on members of the Sandalwood family, Phoradendron genus; these are mistletoes that are partially parasitic on various trees such as acacias, junipers and oaks. When we think of some species parasitising others, we often assume that is a bad thing. But in the world of nature, not all is as it seems.

These gorgeous butterflies are not the only species that use Phoradendrons to their advantage; they are the preferred food of Phaino-

Explore Banderas Bay

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

It is bounded in the north by Punta de Mita and in the south by Cabo Corrientes. It straddles the states of

Jalisco and Nayarit, divided along the Ameca River.

The bay is home to many wonderful communities and an abundance of natural wonders.

In the winter and spring seasons you can witness the awe inspiring

beauty of the humpback whales as they calve in the warm waters of the bay, in the summer you can experience the majesty of the sea turtles hatching and returning to their watery world.

The fall brings renewed vigour to the mountains and rivers with the fresh rains and revived vegetation.

No matter when you visit, Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit will share their wonders with you. Here is a selection of some of the many things you can do while visiting us.

Walking Tours Take a tour through Puerto Vallarta’s Historic Downtown to learn

pepla, a silky-flycatcher. As well, the dense branching offers important shelter to some nesting birds and small mammals.

When the hairy, dark greenish caterpillars pupate they use a common strategy of survival; the pupa (cocoons) are camouflaged to look like inedible bird droppings.

The marvels of nature are complex and endlessly fascinating!

about this city’s rich history, famous people, architecture, and cultural and ecological heritage; all this on an easy to moderate two-hour stroll led by a certified guide. Tours leave from the Municipal Tourism Office every Tuesday and Wednesday at 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m and Saturdays at 9:00 a.m.

LOCAL 6

Friday Nov 29 - Dec 5, 2013

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PV Sea Dive

By Sue Keevil pvseadive.com

By Erin Staley oldtownfm.com

The Greatest Thing since Sliced Bread: Artisan Bread

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f you’re just visiting sunny Puerto Vallarta, be sure to add the area’s favorite attraction to your Saturday festivities: the Old Town Farmers’ Market-Tianguis Cultural. Located in the heart of the city, this “make it, bake it, grow it” market is hopping with eager shoppers who want to fill their bags with locally grown strawberries, tropical flowers, natural cheeses, Huichol figurines, handmade beauty products, whimsical instruments and fashion-forward beachwear.

And as you enjoy the warm Mexican sun and fun-filled entertainment, be sure to jump in line for one of the market’s hottest products: artisan bread. The nutty flavor and hearty texture and will make you think you have the best thing since, well, sliced bread!

Our artisan bakers use high quality, locally grown ingredients, old world style bread-making techniques and a whole lot of love to create their signature products.

Each loaf has been fermented at least four times longer than commercial breads which offer a smorgasbord of nutrients. Then the loaves are baked in small batches, giving you an unparalleled tasting experience.

While you’re at the market this Saturday, stop by each of our artisan bread booths to discover your favorite.

Artisan Bakery, owned by Lorene Rivera, specializes in old world European breads made with a purely natural 30-year-old

sourdough starter from the San Francisco Bay area. Fermented for 12-hours, the dough is ready for a careful kneading, proofing and baking process. Once perfection is achieved, each “rustic” loaf offers Artisan Bakery’s signature texture and flavor. Stop by this Saturday to select from Artisan Bakery’s vast array of styles. You’ll find everything from sourdough French baguettes to specialty breads. To learn more, visit Artisan Bakery’s new Colonia location on Calle Aldanaca 178, Local #9. Call 322-223-8283 or visit ArtisanBakeryIntl.com or Facebook.

Chilean Whole Wheat Bread is a “gift from the heart.” It is made

by Sebastian Matias Casanova Castro who has improved upon a recipe created by his grandmother in the cold Chilean Patagonia.

With fresh ingredients such as flaxseed and sesame, Sebastian creates his robust dough. It is then fermented for a long period of time allowing the wheat to convert into a power-packed food source with vitamins, minerals, amino acids and complex carbohydrates.

Sebastian then uses his gas stove to bake the loaves, a popular southern Chilean way of baking.

Chilean Whole Wheat Bread is then brought to the market, ready to be enjoyed by those who want to try something unique, healthy and delicious.

Vera Bakery, owned by international pastry chef Christian Calvento, is built on a love for baking. This passion was engrained in him by his mother who was known for her baked delights.

Today, Calvento honors her as the namesake for his bakery and the inspiration behind his unforgettable

home-style breads. Mixing together a variety of healthy, chemical-free ingredients, Calvento spends hours making sure each loaf reaches its full potential in texture and flavor. Although Vera Bakery sells a number of bread varieties at the market, the multigrain and whole wheat are always the most popular. They do not crumble giving bread lovers the perfect slice for toasting. If you’re in Bucerias and would like to try their other baked goods, then stop by the Vera Bakery Shop on Calle Lázaro Cárdenas #101.

Visit them on Facebook or call 329-298-1962.

Satisfy your craving for the wholesome, “just baked” goodness of artisan breads this Saturday. And don’t forget that these baked loaves will make the perfect sidekick to our other ready-to-eat foods. Pair them with handmade Mexican cheeses, tortilla soup, salsas, dressings, dips and organic peanut butter.

The possibilities are endless and not to mention, delicious!

Located in Lazaro Cárdenas Park (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. To learn more, visit us on www.oldtownfm.com or Facebook.

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

A funky town with a wonderful protected beach, this laid-back town has a hippie vibe with the

organic cafes and the yoga studios to prove it. Visit the Huichol Cultural Centre for some wonderful handmade beaded jewelry or grab a surf lesson from one of the many vendors on the beach.

Cooking Classes – Recognized as

Another First For Me

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oday had its great and not so great moments for me.

The first dive of the day was at Majahuitas, a personal favourite of mine. This is because it is full of so many fish and many small critters of all shapes and sizes, including the nudibranchs, which in layman terms are sea slugs.

Land slugs are usually dull and not very pretty to look at, whereas these little slugs are so pretty and colorful that I just can´t stop.

After the dive, we sped off to do our second dive at Los Arcos.

The ocean was rough as it was a full moon, and my boat captain earned his money making sure no one was sea sick!

We arrive at Los Arcos to find the usual cluster of booze cruise boats there, all depositing their guests in the water to snorkel.

These boats are large and not easy to maneuver, so, if any of their guests have any issues, it is difficult to respond.

We spotted a father and his three young daughters in the water, and clearly they were in trouble. The youngest one, who was around four-years-old, was slipping through her life jacket and screaming for help. As we approached them, we saw a large, spotted dolphin under this child that was constantly nudging her up to the surface. I have never, in all my years in the ocean, seen anything like this before. I have heard stories about dolphins rescuing humans, but to see it with your own two eyes is another matter. We pulled alongside the family and pulled them onboard and delivered them back to their boat. Then, as we pulled away

one of the world’s leading cuisines, there are a number of great schools in the Puerto Vallarta area that will teach you how to master tortilla soup, enchiladas, salsas and more.

Fresh seafood, abundant fruit and veggies and a sophisticated community make Vallarta a foodies dream destination. Look for a school

to go diving, the dolphin stayed with us for at least fifteen minutes, which was super cool and something that I call ‘instant karma’. But then, when we were in the water getting ready to dive, the dolphin was swimming all around us. The photo that goes along with this article is the actual photo that I took, albeit, I wish I had switched my camera lights on. This experience was just too cool and I wasn´t thinking straight, so please forgive the quality!

The really sad part about days like today though, that totally out shine the coolness of the dolphin experience, was that I doubt that those children, especially the youngest one, will ever want to get into the ocean again, and I wouldn´t be surprised if none of them, including the father, ever do.

So, please make sure when you are going out on the ocean that you go with a company that will have an experienced guide in the water with you at all times, and that the life jackets you are wearing fit you and have the buoyancy properties to protect you. Please.

Stay safe and respect the ocean.

that will take you to the markets or introduce you to the farmers and fishermen for a truly cultural experience. Don’t want to cook? Try one of the Food Tours available. Eat like a local and for three hours you will enjoy everything from Tacos to Pozole at the food stands and small comidas around town.

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www.vallartatribune.com

Paradise and Parenting

By Leza Warkentin

We will RACK you

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n a few days it will be December 1. Not only is this my husband’s birthday (happy birthday, darling, you are wonderful! You are young! You are spry!), it begins the Christmas countdown on everyone’s advent calendars.

Last year, I decided that it might be kind of fun to make the kiddos an advent calendar. I’m always full of Big Ideas but often get bogged down in irritating details, such as the fact that I can’t (won’t) sew. I checked on Pinterest, famous for all sorts of creative, mom-shaming ideas. I saw many elaborate types of calendars. There was one made entirely of tiny, adorable, handsewn stockings and another that detailed an amazing, fully prepped craft or baking activity for each day of advent. At that point I went and had a nap. When I woke up, I realized that a) I am not this kind of mother and b) most of these women don’t leave the advent calendar craft to November 29.

Determined, I dove back in for something a little more attainable.

What I found has truly changed the holiday season for our family. I found an advent calendar called a RACK. RACK stands for Random Act of Christmas Kindess, and for each day there was a little plastic ball containing an act of kindness to commit.

It grabbed my attention, because last year my kids demanded to know why Santa can’t give toys to other kids who don’t have any. That’s when I knew it was time to start shifting our focus just a little. Don’t get me wrong, they will still wake up Christmas morning to an empty cookie plate and Santa’s sparkly footprints.

But I wanted my children to spend most of their Christmas season feeling that unique joy that comes when you’ve brightened someone else’s day.

Now, this particular blogger who posted the RACK calendar had hand-painted a big wooden picture frame on which to hang the balls and decorated each plastic ball so elaborately it filled every inch of my heart with despair. So I decided that if my kids were going to really buy into the idea of RACKing someone every day until Christmas, we would be doing it together, and we’d be doing it easy.

I got a huge piece of butcher paper and we painted a big ol’ crooked pine tree on it. The morning of December 1, my kids woke up to the tree suddenly full of numbered gold paper ornaments with a note on the back detailing what act of kindness they would commit each day.

I found that I had to think like a

Explore Banderas Bay Art Galleries – It is said there are more galleries per capita in Puerto Vallarta than any other place in Mexico. Many of these galleries are along the side streets that run through Centro. Stop at the Tourism Office in the Main Plaza

for a map or take advantage of their free walking tour. Many galleries carry high quality local crafts, established Mexican and international artists and more.

Ride the bus - Buses in Puerto Vallarta are an experience all their

kid (which is embarrassingly easy for me to do) when writing each RACK idea. Some of them were easy, like “tape 5 pesos to every kiddie car in front of the Farmacia Guadalajara to give some kids a free ride”, and some took more courage, like “hand out candy canes to every kid you find on the beach”.

I’m not going to tell you it was always easy and fun. But I will tell you that if you don’t believe in Christmas magic, you need to get yourself a RACK calendar. When my son was shoved away when trying to hand out a candy cane to a highly suspicious preschooler, both children came back to my beach chair, discouraged.

At that moment, we had to talk about the purpose of kind acts and how sometimes it’s the hardest road to take, but it’s always the right one. And then, like a miracle, a different little boy who had happily received the candy shuffled up shyly and asked my children to build a sand castle with him.

They gave me a look that is rare and about as good as it gets for a parent, that look that glitters with, “You were right” and, even better, “But how did you know, wise mother?” I returned the look with a sage, knowing nod, and gave a silent high-five to the grace that comes to each of us when we’ve been particularly good that year.

Prepare yourself, Vallarta, you are about to be RACKed.

own. You can tell the general destination of the bus by what is written on the window. Costco, Sheraton, Centro, Mismaloya you can go just about anywhere in this city on the bus. Only six and a half pesos (per bus - there are no transfers) this is a great way to explore the neighbourhoods. Head south on the bus

Friday Nov 29 - Dec 5, 2013

This is Paradise...

By Marcia Blondin marciavallarta@gmail.com

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i everybody! I trust everyone’s Thanksgiving Day was full of love, laughter and turkey. There is so much going on at the Paradise Community Center I have to go day by day balancing a calendar on my lap as I type to let you know all the cool things going on starting Saturday morning.

We open the Co-op Farmer’s Market at 9 am; everyone is invited to come and eat, drink and shop until 1 pm. Did you know we are the only Market in Vallarta that runs 52 weeks a year? We do...something about no rest for the wicked! Come and share the fun and bring a tourist and all your friends.

After Market, go home or to your hotel, have a nap then come back here after 6:30 for dinner, more drinks and stay for Bedazzled Broadway a show that will make you laugh in parts and weep with nostalgia in others.

The remarkable cast gets better every week, I swear. I have been at the PCC every Saturday night since Bedazzled opened and I promise you’ll enjoy all of it!

Church on Sunday morning at 10:30 am - an Interdenominational service in English.

Monday... absolutely nothing happens so we are closed.

Tuesday through Friday: Zumba classes start at 9:45 and if that doesn’t wear off Thanksgiving Dinner stick around for Line Dancing at 11. On the more leisurely side make sure to have a look at the gently used clothes for men and women at the Fashions 4 Charity consignment satellite store of Kathleen’s Deja New. And the Book and Bean

and get a front row seat on some spectacular scenery on your way to the Vallarta Zoo. Or hop the Bucerias bus in front of Walmart and 30 minutes later you are exploring a charming beachside town. Tip: Sit on the non-sunny side of the bus.

Trust me. It gets hot.

is open for (excellent) coffee and used books. The last two are open 10 to 2 and during our Saturday Market.

Two very important events happening Tuesday, December 3rd. The first is a brand new Christmas Market (every Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday until the 20th) featuring International Foods and Artisans that opens at 4:30.

All your Christmas/Hanukkah shopping under one big palapa.

And then there’s the return of the Democrats Abroad Film Series. Their 4th season opens with “Quartet”, directed by Dustin Hoffman at 7 pm.

Wednesday afternoon at 4:30 the Christmas Market will open and will be followed by another fabulous Flamenco concert by Latcho and Andrea at 8 pm. My mistake last week, when I wrote they would delight audiences every Wednesday evening but no, it’s every OTHER Wednesday starting December 4th. Mea culpa and see my review of their last concert on the Paradise Stage in this issue.

Friday come and shop at our Christmas Market that opens at 4:30, get your new copy of the Tribune and find out what’s going on at the Paradise Community Center next week! Until then, take care of yourselves and don’t forget to help our tourists!

The Paradise Community Center, Pulpito 127 between Olas Altas and Amapas Streets in Old Town Puerto Vallarta smack in the middle of the Zona Romantica across from Coco’s Kitchen.

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www.vallartatribune.com

Therapy, Who me?

I´m not crazy

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The State of Real Estate in Puerto Vallarta

By Miguel Fernández Miguel@g3mex.com

By Jean Martin pv.psychoterpay@gmail.com

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hough it’s been a while since this phrase was common, many people are in the dark when it comes to therapy. Many of us imagine a person sitting in an office taking notes while the other person talks. There are many role models on television that are helping us to be even more confused or skeptical when considering looking for help.

In Treatment is one example.

While the main character is a great actor (Gabriel Byrne) he is a very sad one as well. For some strange reason he never seems to do anything well (in his mind at least) with very little hope for his patients. For starters he hasn’t sorted out his own problems; another possibility for his supposed failure might be the kind of therapy he gives.

Although Freud is the forefather of Psychology, therapy has come a long way. It has taken many paths, incorporating alternative methods of healing and although not everyone has the same point of view, it is important to know that there are many forms of psychological help, from psychotherapy to shamanism.

Some fields include the “here and now” while others work on

a holistic method and might include hypnosis or total body movement, just to mention a few.

Going to therapy for years is a thing of the past because most of the new tendencies work a lot faster. The most important step to take however is to determine if you need professional help.

There are the telltale signs that are very easy to recognize like depression, alcoholism, anorexia or bulimia, drug abuse etc. but what about the hidden ones?

One of the first steps is to be honest with yourself (easier said than done) and take a good look at how you are feeling recently.

Have you had difficulty sleeping? Do you get sudden panic attacks? Are you overwhelmed by the tragedies of life? If so, you might want to consider.

Therapy is a time just for you.

It’s a one on one in strict confidentiality where you can express fears, worries and regrets. This sheds a light on the problem and allows you to let go or find a solution.

The truth is in you. Believe in yourself enough to forgive others and yourself. We are all a work in progress, hopefully with happy endings.

Friday Nov 29 - Dec 5, 2013

Notes from the Engage Mexico Social Media Conference

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had the good fortune of speaking at one of the Real Estate Workshops at Puerto Vallarta’s recent Engage Mexico Social Media conference. We had a lively discussion about the current state of Real Estate here in Vallarta, and I wanted to share it with our Vallarta Tribune readers: We discussed the fact that social networking is terrific, and we all use it regularly, though, we’ve noticed a decline in interest and traffic via our social networking avenues. A lot of this is due to saturation. There are tons of people sending out tons of information, and we are all overwhelmed. As a business owner, I can attest to barely finding the time to read my email, let alone checking Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Insta-

gram, blogs, newsletters, etc.

And, in the end, how effective is social media in creating a sense of community locally? Certainly realtors are competitors, but too, we are colleagues, and we frequently work with one another on property sales and other transactions, so it’s important for us to really help one another and to stay in touch.

We also talked about the need to look at the reality of our current real estate market, and adjust accordingly. Yes, we were pricing properties at a higher rate per meter several years ago, when the market was strong, but now we need to help sellers understand that this pricing structure has changed.

Another hot topic during our discussion was that we have a beautiful town, with thousands

Jean Martin Guestalt Psychotherapist pv.psychotherapy@gmail.com Mobile: 322 1416731 Skype: Jeannefly1705

Explore Banderas Bay Support Local Business - One of the most popular reasons visitors love Puerto Vallarta is because it’s a thriving city not just geared towards tourists.

A fine example of this is the many small businesses that you can

find in ‘Centro’ including galleries, restaurants, clothing stores, spas and more. Venture off the malecon to find the perfect souvenir.

Volunteer - There are many wonderful organizations across the Bay that can use your help. Both

time or money will be appreciated.

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

Conchas Chinas The south of Puerto Vallarta is a thick jungle full of adventure and excitement. Head south along the 200 highway and you will find the architecturally inspiring community of Conchas Chinas. The beach cove here is excellent for snorkeling.

of visitors, but we still have too many shops and buildings sitting vacant.

In Cynthia Fauth’s recent report on real estate in Latin America: “Mexico is second only to Brazil as Latin America’s largest economy, and it has been climbing for several years now. Predictions are that over the next decade, Mexico will surpass Brazil and become one of the emerging markets’ most dynamic economies.

According to Carla Hills, U.S. Trade Representative, Mexico’s reserves are healthy, and it is ranked by the World Bank as the best place for doing business in Latin America.” Puerto Vallarta could easily reflect the dynamism of the Mexican economy by giving incentives to small business owners. We have a lot of local talent, and making a business space more affordable to them is key. Tourists need to see that this is a vibrant, busy town, with a big variety of shops and restaurants.

Everyone in our discussion agreed that we’ve been working towards a more pedestrian friendly town, and that we need to see this continue. Some suggestions from the group were: • Limiting some of the bus traffic into the center of town • Continue widening sidewalks and burying cables underground • Creating an alliance with the business community and the local government to discuss community issues • Supporting the efforts of the volunteer beautification organizations via donations and publicity A a first impression, it might be good to rethink the welcome that our visitors receive at the airport. The bombardment by taxi services, and tour groups is certainly overwhelming. I fly in and out of Vallarta frequently, and always see confused visitors at the airport entry gate trying to make sense of everything coming at them.

In the end, the real estate community has a lot at stake in the perception of our town, as we rely upon maintaining Puerto Vallarta’s safe and beautiful image for our business.

SPORTS

Friday Nov 29 - Dec 5, 2013

It pays (well) to cheat, and other random thoughts from the Tribune Sports desk

By Joel Hansen

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hoeless” Joe Jackson and Jonny Peralta both play (or played in Jackson’s case) baseball. Both “cheated”. One got banned from baseball for life for throwing the 1919 World Series despite batting .375 with a home run and six RBI. The other just received a four year contract for 52 million dollars for a having a career batting average of .268, never getting to a World Series and taking PEDs. Sorry Joe, it seems like you played in the wrong era.

Nice to see the NHL get it right for once. The recent 12-year, $5.2 billion agreement with Rogers Communications for the league’s broadcast and multimedia rights is an indicator of the value and strength of the league right now.

The NHL also has a 10-year, $2 billion deal with NBC in the U.S., bringing its combined rights fees to close to $7 billion. By comparison, the NBA has a $7.4 billion TV deal with ABC/ESPN and TNT,

however when put into context the NHL’s deal is focusing on a country with roughly 35 million and the NBA’s deal is focused mostly in the US with a population of 315 million. It shows two things, the NHL brand is growing in value and Canadians cannot get enough hockey, eh?

Not everyone can party like Dennis Rodman (or his “friend for life”, North Korea’s Kim Jong Un) but the former Chicago Bulls

star hopes his new “bad ass” premium vodka will bring about the party and world peace. Last Thursday, the 52-year-old hoops champ debuted Rodman Vodka, a “six times distilled all-American premium vodka.” What I don’t get is, wouldn’t it have been a more natural fit for the Worm to produce a Mezcal instead? In more PED news from the Associated Press -Alex Rodriguez’s lawyers updated his lawsuit against Major League

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www.vallartatribune.com

Baseball and Bud Selig, adding new criticism of the commissioner for not testifying in the union’s grievance to overturn the 211-game suspension given to the New York Yankees star last summer.

Arbitrator Fredric Horowitz last week refused to compel Selig to testify in the grievance, and Rodriguez then walked out of the hearing without testifying. The sides rested last Thursday after 12 days of sessions, and a decision on whether to uphold or alter the discipline is expected in January.

“Mr. Selig chose to hide in his office in Milwaukee rather than come testify at the grievance hearing in New York. In Mr. Selig’s world, apparently the `buck’ does not stop with Bud,” the new complaint said. “Mr. Selig lacked the courage of his convictions to explain under oath the reasons for the suspension and the conduct of his investigators. His silence on these issues speaks volumes and leads to only one logical conclusion - his actions, and those of the MLB personnel he controls, were aimed at destroying the reputation, career and business prospects of Alex Rodriguez.”

A-Rod’s lawyers included a photograph of Selig posing with a fan wearing a red shirt that had

“A-ROID” written across the front, a photo attributed to NESN.com.

“Sadly, this cowardly stance

by Mr. Selig is consistent with his past and highly inappropriate conduct in posing, smilingly, with a young fan wearing a T-shirt with a derogatory message directed at Mr. Rodriguez,” the amended lawsuit said. “One cannot imagine the Commissioner of any other professional sport - or indeed the CEO of any business - doing something similar with respect to one of his or her players or employees.”

The photo of Selig is priceless, in all of my years of watching baseball I have never seen the old crotchety commissioner smile as broadly as he poses with the kid and sticks it ton Rodriguez on camera. The Sunday Night Football game between Denver and New England was the greatest regular season game I have ever watched. I am happy that I have been able to watch the era of Brady vs Manning with my son at a time in his life when he is a true fan of the NFL. If you like sports and comedy be sure to check out the Sklar Brothers podcast Sklarbro Country. The funniest thing on the web, I swear.

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www.vallartatribune.com

Friday Nov 29 - Dec 5, 2013

Fun on the Banderas Bay Riviera Initiative Nayarit

By Cat Morgan www.rivieranayaritfun.com

Around the Riviera Nayarit

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ola Riviera Nayarit and PV Communities! Wishing you all a Happy Thanksgiving this week and sending you all my gratitude and blessings. Thanksgiving is one of those times to slow down, be grateful and share happiness with friends and family.

Simply being here, now, in our beautiful Bahia de Banderas, where the amazing jungle meets the beautiful bay is a reminder to be grateful for where we live and what we have in our lives. We can make every day special by remembering to have gratitude.

There is a lot going on in the communities…so I thought I would post a few upcoming events. I went in to Mega the other day, and they already have their huge Christmas tree up….hahahaha…. time is moving quickly! Check out these events coming up on the Riviera Nayarit. Perhaps you will want to attend a few.

Nuevo Vallarta The Taste of Nuevo Vallarta & Chili Cook-off, December 7th at the Malecon of Marina Nuevo Vallarta from 4pm to 8pm.The taste of Nuevo will highlight the cuisine of professional chefs from 40 different restaurants around the Banderas Bay. Offering samples of their menus where folks can taste for only 10n pesos a ticket.

Live music will fill the air creating a festive ambiance.

Bucerias International Music Festival Viva BUCERIAS December 8th in the Bucerias Plaza starting at 3:00 pm and going until the evening hours!

Bands like the Luna Rumba Band, Banderas Bay Allstars and many, many more. Guadalupe Lupe Dipp from Los Arroyos Verdes will be the host speaker for this special event! Enjoy jazz, blues, flamenco, Andino, Cuban, funk all afternoon and evening. This is a FREE event, so bring the entire family!

Local Markets The Monday Mexican Gourmet Market at the Bucerias Art Walk Plaza just down form Mark’s Bar and Grill. It’s an all-nationals market that helps support our Mexican vendors and families.

Check out the Wednesday Market for lots of terrific buys from local vendors like Hand in the Kitchen (when you don’t feel like cooking) and Oxnards Soaps, MuyGreen Chimichurri and pickles, and the Tercera Edad ladies (Bucerias Community Senior Center) selling their crafts and cooking tickets ... and so much more!

Guayabitos Tianguis started this Thursday, located in Rincon de Guayatbitos main plaza. Thursdays the La Penita Tainguis is a huge market located down at the end of the main avenue by the new La Penita Malecon.

Saturday Co-Op Market at the Paradise Community Center in Nuevo Vallarta The Sunday La Cruz Market farmers and artisan market is huge with live music and just about everything you can imagine, with many of the vendors coming from Guadalajara and Tepic! You can also check out our new page highlighting some of the vendors on our allLaCruz.com page!

Have a super week everyone.

If you have any Riviera Nayarit News, or comments, please send to Cat@RivieraNayaritFun.com Happy Holidays!

By María del Mar Zamora maria.zamora@bbini.org

Butterflies: Beyond Beauty

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round the world and throughout the ages people have been fascinated by butterflies. In Mexico they have inspired pre-hispanic legends and the Monarch butterfly has come to be associated with Michoacan and the natural beauty of our country in general.

Monarch butterflies were called Daughters of the Sun by the Mazahua people. Myths about these colorful and mysterious creatures abound. They have been thought responsible for carrying the souls of fallen warriors to the afterlife, and thought to be the reincarnated souls of children lost. A Náhuatl legend suggests that these winged creatures can carry our wishes to celestial ears. Since the butterfly makes no sound, it is the only creature that could communicate your wish to Xochiquetzal, goddess of joy and flowers. It was said that if you whispered your wish to a butterfly and set it free, it would fly to the heavens and your wish would be granted in appreciation for its freedom.

Butterflies are carrying more than wishes upon their wings these days, with pressures on their ecosystems and the environmental services they provide

becoming more important each day. Butterflies have been identified as “bio-indicators.” This means that they can help us determine the health and richness of an ecosystem. Their small size and high reproductive rates, as well as their low trophic level (they’re low on the food chain), makes them respond quickly to environmental stress. They are also relatively easy to observe and measure. With these characteristics, as well as their natural charisma, they have become a flagship species for conservation in general and for invertebrates in particular. Areas rich in butterflies and moths tend to be rich in other invertebrates as well.

Butterflies are also good bio-indicators because they need a variety of vegetation for their survival and distribution. They need food plants, nectar plants and shade plants during different parts of their day and their lifetime.

Every butterfly and moth has developed unique adaptations such as chemicals and colorings to deter predators and parasites, find mates, and overcome the defenses of their host plants.

They also provide services such as pollination and natural pest control.

Increasingly, butterfly watching or butterflying is becoming a popular hobby and a source of

ecotourism and resources for the communities that learn how to protect this natural resource.

Mexico is estimated to be home to an incredible 25,000 species of butterflies, about 10% of the world total, including a great number of endemic species. The most represented being those in the Papilionioidea superfamily with over 1,200 species, 210 of these being endemic. Saturniidae family has 106 endemic species, Sphingidae with 25 and Arctiidae with 148. How many have you seen?

Our own slice of Mexican heaven has an amazing representation of these beauties.

Robert Hardwick and Richard Lindstrom have been photographing butterflies for years and have kindly made a compilation of the butterflies they have found in the Mismaloya Canyon available through the BBI website at http://www.bbini.org/biblioteca/ check back soon for the names to appear with each butterfly.

They have documented over 250 species in the Mismaloya canyon alone. You can also learn and explore some more butterfly information with Morelea Milne here at the Vallarta Tribune.

Begin this new hobby and contribute to citizen-science by registering your sightings with the North American Butterfly Association at http://www.nababis.org/.

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Friday Nov 29 - Dec 5, 2013

Chers lecteurs

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omme à chaque semaine je vous invite, chers lecteurs, à partager avec moi vos idées et impressions, cette semaine je dois dire que je suis restée un peu surprise de savoir que mes petits articles hebdo-

madaires sont lues et génèrent une correspondance. Merci de vos courriels et surtout de votre intérêt.

Suite à mon premier article, j’ai eu la chance la semaine dernière de prendre un thé glacé avec une chère dame montréalaise. Avec

qui j’ai pu échangé et surtout écouté et apprendre sur la vie et la communauté Francophone de Puerto Vallarta. Je suis fière de savoir que nous avons une forte confrérie et qu’il y a un intérêt à développer un lien entre nous.

Lors de mon entretien si agréable, Hélène m’a non seulement accueillie chez-elle, elle avait préparé quelques suggestions afin de pouvoir rassembler la communauté francophone. Étant donné que dans le passé Hélène avait développé une formule similaire aux “SOUPERS RENCONTRES PARLER POUR PARLER”.

Elle m’a suggéré d’initier un tel concept à Puerto Vallarta, j’étais ravie de l’idée et toute suite pensée que ça serait une façon idéale de créer un lien entre-nous.

Donc, je vous invite à me faire part de vos impressions mais surtout de votre éventuel intérêt à prendre part dans une telle activité.

Voici un extrait de son projet en développement : « Les Québécois qui séjournent à Puerto Vallarta se souviennent surement de l’émission télévisée PARLER POUR PARLER si popu-

www.vallartatribune.com

laire des années 90, animée par la légendaire Jeannette Bertrand.

Que diriez-vous de participer à des soupers causeries hebdomadaires dans différents restaurants à Puerto Vallarta ?

Au programme: Cocktail de bienvenue, un repas 4 services et une discussion animée sur un

thème choisi. » Si jamais ce projet vous intéresse dites-le moi, ou bien si vous avez des suggestions je vous prie de m’en faire part.

Bonne semaine, Julie Mongeau juliemongeau@gmail.com

ADORABLE DOG IN THE SPOTLIGHT...KATIE Still a puppy, Katie arrived at the sanctuary after she and her siblings were simply dumped, left to roam the outlying neighborhoods of Puerto Vallarta. When she arrived we tested her for the usual diseases and sadly learned she was positive for the Canine parvovirus. Katie is a Fox Terrier mix, approximately 9 months old and weighs about 8 kilos or 18 pounds. She loves to play with

other dogs and go on walks. She is a little shy with new situations and people at first, but warms up quickly. Please contact us at spcapv@gmail.com.

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 Hotel Zone de Huanacaxtle Villa del Palmar - Vallarta Oso’s Restaurant Weekend Markets Philos Realty Old Town Farmers Market Ikuai Restaurant Saturday Co-Op Market Bucerias La Cruz Farmers Market DeCameron Resort Tourist Offices: Global Real Estate • Rio Cuale Yo-Yo Mo’s Sports Bar • Main Plaza Nuevo Vallarta • Lazaro Cardenas Park Paradise Village American Consulate La Estancia Canadian Consulate Vallarta Adventures Old Town & Centro Marina Paradise Community Centre RE/MAX Marina Fredy Tucan Restaurant Café Cup Timothy Real Estate Casa Velas Page in the Sun

Winners of the Riviera Nayarit Half Marathon Announced

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he winners of the Riviera Nayarit Half Marathon were David Gutiérrez Miranda from San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato in the male open category; and Dinora Pérez Sánchez from Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, in the female open category.

The fifth edition of the Riviera Nayarit Half Marathon 2013 was a success with approximately 800 runners of all ages participating. It’s currently ranked among the top 10 marathons on a national level.

First place in the 21k female open category went to Dinora Peña Sánchez of Puerto Vallarta, with a time of 1 hour and 29 minutes.

“This is the best-organized race out of all the races that take place in Vallarta or the Riviera throughout the year,” said the winner. “We invite people to come help grow the Half Marathon, to make it better so there are more prizes. We need more people to participate.”

The first male participant to reach the finish line was David Gutiérrez Miranda, from San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato,

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Friday Nov 29 - Dec 5, 2013

a veteran of marathons and triathlons, with a time of 1 hour 20 minutes. This was his first time running the Half Marathon.

“This is a great place to run and the event is very well organized,” said the winner. “The advantage of having the host hotel so close to the finish line is more time to relax, take a shower and eat breakfast.”

“It’s very calm and a great venue for the race. This is a place that can definitely grow for this type of event,” he added.

www.vallartatribune.com

Flower of the Week

Sandra Cesca

Handkerchief Bush Mussaenda (Spanish) Mussaenda ‘queen sirikit’

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he Handkerchief Bush is an ornamental tropical evergreen shrub growing to twenty feet bearing small starry yellow flowers with showy light pink, rose-edged leaves that bloom in tropical areas of Mexico almost year round. The drooping flowers look like very small handkerchiefs.

The flower was named after ‘Queen Sirikit’ of Thailand to commemorate her first visit to the Philippines in the 1970’s. The flowers contain medicinal properties; the root is chewed in Africa

as an appetite stimulant; flowers attractive to butterflies.

This plant is one of over 200 found in Sandra’s new color-coded guidebook, Tropical Plant Walks of Puerto Vallarta. Scheduled to be released December 15, it can

be found for sale at the Vallarta Botanical Gardens’ gift shop www. vbgardens.org and Page in the Sun Bookstore. Information on Sandra’s many walking tours can be found at: www.escaperoutevallarta.com.

Sites Marina

El Tigre Villa For Sale Located on the 10th Tee

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 had a mammogram Book your appointment with the most professional team!

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.

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

Explore Banderas Bay Nogalito The first town is that of Nogalito. Set back in the jungle it is a charming Mexican village that also is home to one of the most popular day tours - the Canopy Mundo Nogalito Tour with the only tunnel zip-line in town.

If you’re feeling the heat, stop at the Punta Negra bridge and take a drip in the river. Lovely fresh water, lots of little pools to splash in and rocks to dry off on. If you’re lucky a vendor will come by with snacks and drinks - otherwise pack your own.

www.remaxinpv.com Mismaloya 15 minutes further is Mismaloya, a small town set back from the water along a river that leads to the ocean and a number of beach restaurants. This bay looks onto Los Arcos and is a great place to grab a panga boat for a tour of the impressive rocks. If you have

time, book a snorkel or dive trip.

This is one of the deepest ocean valleys in the world and home to turtles, whales, dolphins and the blue-footed Booby. Back behind the town, check out the Vallarta Zoo where you can play with baby monkeys, tigers and lions.

Boca de Tomatlan Boca de Tomatlan is the last town along the ocean and the place to grab a boat to the small beach communities of Quimixto, Las Animas and the very popular Yelapa. Looking for romance book a table at the nearby Le Kliff for spectacular views and sunsets.

Events 15

Friday Nov 29 - Dec 5, 2013

www.vallartatribune.com

Hope’s Children: The kids of Refugio Infantil Santa Esperanza

By William Haydon

S

ometimes helping disadvantaged children to rise above their circumstances can be as easy as a day at the beach! This was the case on my first day of volunteering for the local children’s shelter, Refugio Infantil Santa Esperanza (RISE) on a perfect sunny day last March.

After arriving at our spot in front of Langostino’s restaurant, I was introduced to a group of the most joyful, high-spirited kids I have ever had the pleasure to meet. It was a stark contrast to my expectations which had probably been influenced too much by the literature of Charles Dickens. I spent the day building and then destroying sand castles, splashing and playing and frolicking in a manner that has been absent from my life for some forty years. I was quite surprised at first by how many of the kids seemed terrified of the ocean until I realized that the kids residing at RISE had not necessarily been born here in Puerto Vallarta and perhaps had never been to the beach before. But the allure of the ocean proved irresistible and in no time at all they were transformed from cautious and wide-eyed into eager and fun-loving, and it actually proved quite the challenge to coax them out of the warm water for their lunch break and even more diffi-

Navy League: Toys for Tots Upcoming fundraising events

cult when the day drew to an end.

In the months since then I have continued to volunteer my time at RISE’s facility at the jungle’s edge, along with a small but amazingly dedicated group of fellow expats and seasonal residents. We bring them snack foods, buy diapers and often surprise the kids with toys and games.

It is most assuredly a labor of love, and I don’t think any of the other volunteers would argue with my claim that we are more than adequately compensated for our efforts with the affection we get from the kids and the joy of being a part of their lives.

RISE is a non-profit organization housing children under the age of 14 who have been turned over by the Desarrollo Integral de la Familia (DIF), a Mexican government social services agency.

Some of the kids stay only on a temporary basis, but for many RISE is a more permanent home.

There are generally 50 or so

kids being housed at RISE at any given time, and providing them with all that they need is a constant challenge. If you would like to help, donations can be mailed or delivered in person to the address below, or visit their website for other payment options such as PayPal… www.risepv.org/ how-you-can-help/donations REFUGIO INFANTIL SANTA ESPERANZA, A.C. R. Flores Magon #251 Colonia Benito Juarez Pto. Vallarta, Jalisco, Mx.

Medical Matters with Pam Thompson

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he International Friendship Club (IFC) will host Pam Thompson of Healthcare Resources PV at 7:00 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 5. The talk will be held at the IFC Clubhouse where Pam will give an informative talk

on “General Healthcare Information for the Area.” We ask for your voluntary donation of $20 pesos or 2 canned goods which will go to the IFC community services programs. Pam will cover the “who, what, & where” of the

many healthcare resources and services available to members of the PV community. Crucial info to have on hand!

For directions or more information please check the IFC website at: ifcvallarta.com.

Give a smile this Christmas!

Toy Drive Dec. 1-23. The holidays are coming, and there will be many ways to reflect the spirit of the season by helping those less fortunate. The simple gift of a toy can give a kid a smile this Christmas!

Starting December 1st, th e Vallarta Yacht Club will be collecting toys for the 400 kids of Families at the Dump (FAD), also known as Families of Esperanza.

An extra item in your shopping cart can help make this Christmas a memorable one! Dates: December 1-23, 2013 at Vallarta Yacht Club in

Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit (next to Paradise Village Mall) These are the families assisted by the FAD program.

They are learning skills for a better life and trying to escape the lowest level of poverty.

Without our help, they can’t make their goal of a toy for each child.

Toys will be distributed at their Kings Day celebration in early January.

For more information on this Toy Drive, contact the VYC at (322)2972222 or FAD at (322)297-7425.

W

e are ready to celebrate our Navy League Toys for Tots Program with two annual fundraisers: a Golf Scramble on December 7th and a Gala Dinner/Dance on December 8th. Funds raised in these events are used to buy toys for distribution on Day of Kings in January to young children in the rural areas surrounding Puerto Vallarta. If enough revenues are generated, we also buy and install playgrounds in the schoolyards of these children.

The Golf Scramble is played on the Weiskopf Course at Vista Vallarta, a beautiful course in the hills above the city with vistas of El Centro and Bahia de las Banderas!

It is most definitely not a competitive tournament although there are prizes galore. A few years ago one of our players won a Toyota for his brilliant play on Hole 13!! Tee-time is 11 am, with a delicious Mexican style buffet in the Club House for players after the game. Tickets for this full day of activities are now on sale for 1,500 pesos or $120 USD. The Gala Dinner and Dance takes place the following evening, December 8, at Marriott CasaMagna Resort and Spa. Cocktail reception at 6:30 pm followed by dinner at beautifully appointed

tables for ten. Raffle tickets are sold for prizes such as dinners at favoured restaurants, hotel stays, spa treatments, and the like. A lively band provides entertainment for listening and dancing. Tickets for this evening are on sale for 1,000 pesos or $80 USD. Important to note that our generous sponsors underwrite all expenses of the two days, such as the use of the Vista Vallarta golf course and for the dinner. The Toys for Tots organization is run by volunteers; there are no employees. Proceeds from the fundraisers buy toys at a discount from a toy wholesaler. Tickets for the events are available from: CasaMagna Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa, Concierge Vallarta Yacht Club.

If you would like to take part in toy distribution on January 7 or would like to join the Navy League, please phone Fred and Dorothy Piontkowski at 322 209-0064.

You will have a beautiful day visiting the far reaches of our beautiful mountains, beaches and farmlands where these children live. And, of course, you will be contributing to the joy of neighborhood children.

More than 20 Artists, Live Music, Fab Food Celebrate the Arts Along the scenic Rio Cuale sits Paso Ancho, a thriving arts community. Five minutes from Vallarta, this heartbeat of culture and beauty inspired artists, Ada Colorina, Carolina and Karen Lahm to create the Paso Ancho Arts Association.

On Thursday, December 5 from 1PM – 6 PM, the PAaa presents the 2nd annual “DeZtinacion – El Rio Del Arte,” at El Rio BBQ in the heart of Paso Ancho. A free family event.

“This is a dream come true,” say the PAaa. “More than than 20 local and internationally acclaimed painters, jewelers, designers and sculptors will be

on site including Ada Colorina, Marta Gilbert, Judith Ewing Morlan, Javier Nino, Cathy Von Rohr, Carolina and Extra Virgin Art and more. Highlights also include live music, face painting, mural painting, and El Rio’s signature, slow smoked ribs.

A silent auction and raffle offers chances to win high value paintings and art works.

Along with the fun, partial proceeds benefit the Colima free Spay & Neuter Clinic. suffering animals in PV. Event information, contact Carolina (doggonegoodcarolina@yahoo.com)

EVENTS and reviews 16

www.vallartatribune.com

Friday Nov 29 - Dec 5, 2013

Engaging Mexico

by Marcia Blondin

marciavallarta@gmail.com

T

his conference was held at the Sheraton Bougainvillea Resort here in Vallarta.

Three days of intense workshops, panels, slideshows, everything you could possible imagine about the Internet, marketing, Social Media. The organizers flew in the best of the best minds to teach us new and better ways to do business. I went because the editor of this paper said I could, and as a sponsor of this event she had an extra ticket. I said I would write about it for the Tribune when it was over. Easier said than done.

I am very much a newbie when it comes to anything technical. I can’t program a - oh boy, I was going to say a VCR. So you understand my level of competence. For those of you who do not know what a VCR is, please stop reading.

Take smart phones, for example, I know what they are - I just haven’t

actually used one. But I will. Buy one, I mean; because I have been to this conference. I was like a sponge in many ways. A sponge doesn’t know what exactly it’s sucking up but the job of a sponge is to absorb. I absorbed a great deal. The only thing about that is I didn’t know what I was absorbing.

Back to being a sponge: A true lesser life form especially in such rare company. The speakers that I heard have been everywhere in the world spreading their particular brand of knowledge to every corner of the earth. They all have written books, some appear regularly on CNN in more than one language, and there I was - close to the front so I wouldn’t miss anything.

I missed everything! I was sure the language was English but under what tree limb have I been living to not recognize so many words? On the last day I felt that I really paid attention to everything that was being said and projected

onto the wall. And because I took quite a few notes (when instructed!) I am anxiously (operative word) looking forward to trying out a wee bit of new knowledge.

Like changing my website and paying much more attention to Facebook. I plan on venturing into Pinterest but I confess that towards the end of the last day, the final lecture was on Twitter. I ran. I had shopping to do and I had to get home to my cats who know as much about Linkedin as I do and I needed that kind of company.

All in all I thought the whole conference was terrific. Super speakers, everybody so smart and erudite. I hope that I will be able to attend next year and be able to write a review from a non-sponge perspective. Special thanks to Lon Safko who was a terrific speaker and moderator as well as being very interesting and kind. He seemed to me like a really good guy and I hope he comes back to Vallarta next year.

13th Annual Chili Cook-off and Taste of Nuevo Vallarta

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he Marina Nuevo Vallarta malecon will be home of the first ever Taste of Nuevo Vallarta and the 13th Annual Chili Cook-off, hosted by the Vallarta Yacht Club. It will be held on Saturday, December 7th from 4pm to 8pm.

This exciting event will include the competitive sampling of outstanding chili as prepared

by individuals or teams, as well as professional chefs from local restaurants. Additionally, some of the finest restaurants in Nuevo Vallarta and the surrounding area will offer tasting samples from their menus.

Enjoy the music while you sample the chili and other offerings for only $10 pesos a ticket.

You can also use your tickets for

bottled water, soda, beer, wine and Margaritas.

Net proceeds will go to charity, evenly split between Families at the Dump and the Navy League Toys for Tots program.

Parking will be available at Marina Nuevo Vallarta and a water taxi will be available from the Vallarta Yacht Club and Paradise Village.

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

ERIK A. FULFER, D.C. CHIROPRACTOR

The Old Town Tunnel

A monthly slice of gossip that is mostly true

By Penelope Ann Bonita

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hat local realtor went a little overboard with the “renovations” and now looks tighter than a twin fitted sheet pulled over a queen? We wish you the best of luck in achieving a full closure blink in the very near future.

To the couple seen at Costco purchasing only two large screen televisions and an entire cart full of condoms: Firstly, allow me to compliment you on shopping wisely and purchasing 190 boxes of condoms while they were being offered on

discount. Secondly, you were as impressively nonchalant as anyone one purchasing a lifetime supply of birth control at a big box store on a weekend could be. Well done. And I hope you’re enjoying your purchases.

Over-exposed!

What girlabout-town had a brief career as a porn photographer prior to moving to PV? At what recent charity event was an altruistic society lady caught trying to raise something more than funds with a waiter in the staff washroom? Let’s hope hands were washed prior to dinner service.

Name that Resident: The Armpit. Wear sleeves, ladies, because somebody in Vallarta finds armpits so appetizing that he’s been charged with lickand-run by several innocent victims.

Garage sale

White handmade queen/ king afghan, Farberware grill, new DVR plus blank disks, 17 piece pottery coffee set, large mirror, entertainment center.

222-5505

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

CLASSIFIEDS

Friday Nov 29 - Dec 5, 2013

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IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS

UROLOGIST Dr. Pedro López Cueto Tel. (322) 22 5 11 83 www.anku.com.mx

www.vallartatribune.com

Emergency Phone Numbers Havre No.111 Col. Versalles Fluent Englis Spoken

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

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

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

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

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

Beboteros Diaz Ordaz 565 Malecon 322.113.0099 Benito’s Paninoteca Bar Nima Bay, Local 12, “Marina Vallarta” 322.209.0287 Café Roma Encino 287 Centro Mon-Sun 10:pm -3:00 am El Dorado Pulpito # 102, Playa los Muertos” 322.222.4124

Emergency Phone for Sayulita

El Patio de mi Casa Guerrero 311 esq.

Matamoros 322.222.0743

La Palapa Pulpito#103, Playa los Muertos” 322.222.5225

El Rio BBQ Bar 322.222.2510 www.elriobbqbar.com

Las Adelitas Av. Fluvial Vallarta 234 322.293.7778

Encore Lazaro Cardenas51, Bucerias 329.298.0140

Murphy’s Irish Pub Morelos 484 Altos 1, Centro 322.113.0373

India Gate Allende 124 Centro 322.223.2424

180 Basilio Badillo nachodaddymexico.com

Nacho Daddy

La Bodeguita Del Medio Paseo Diaz Ordaz 858, Malecon” 322.223.1583 Tu-Sun 9:30-2:00 am

Philo’s Delfin15, La Cruz de Huanacaxle”329.295.5068 Thu-Sat 8:30 pm

Paradise Stage Paradise Community Center Pulpito 127 322-133-7263 Que? Pasa Aquiles Serdan 625, Col Emiliano Zapata 322.223.4006 The River Café Isla del Rio Cuale Local4 Centro 322.223.0788 Vitea Libertad Edificio Malecon 2, Centro” 322.222.8703

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

charities

www.vallartatribune.com

For visitors to Puerto Vallarta who wish to support the less privileged in our paradise, this is a list of some of the many organizations that could benefit from such kind gestures. If you would like your organization recognized here, please email details to editor@vallartatribune.com.

Acción En La Cruz: aid residents of La Cruz de Huanacaxtle by providing provisions in exchange for community services performed. w w w. l a n d o n 5 1 2 0 . w i x . c o m / accionenlacruz Alcoholics Anonymous: In English Puerto Vallarta Alanon Club - Basilio Badillo 329 www.recoverpv.com American Legion Post 14: raises resources and manpower to improve facilities 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 - Assistance to persons with Down’s Syndrome – Contact: Ana Catalina Eisenring at 224-9577.

Banderas Bay Women’s Shelter Safe shelter for women & children

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Friday Nov 29 - Dec 5, 2013

Non-Profit and Charitable Organizations victims of domestic violence. www. compassionforthefamily.org Becas Vallarta, A.C. – Provides scholarships to high school and university students.Tax-deductible in Mexico and USA. Polly Vicars at (322) 223-1371 or Buri Gray at (322) 221-5285. www. puerto-vallarta.com/amf Bucerias Bilingual Community Center: Supporting families, seniors in Bucerias. www.buceriasbilingualcommunitycenter.org Casa Hogar - A shelter for orphaned, abandoned, disadvantaged or vulnerable children. Luz Aurora Arredondo at 221-1908, Rita Millan (322) 141-6974. casamaximocornejo@gmail.com Centro Comunitario SETAC-GLBT – Services the GLBT community, including treatment and referrals, education, English classes, HIV testing and counseling. Paco Arjona 224-1974 or paco@setac.com.mx Clinica de Rehabilitación Santa Barbara - Rehabilitation of the handicapped. Contact: Laura Lopez Portillo Rodriguez at 224-2754.

COLINA Spay and Neuter Clinic - Free and by-donation steriliza-

Visit Christ Church By the Sea this Season

nown as the “friendliest church in Vallarta” Christ Church by the Sea welcomes you to attend its Sunday Communion service at 10:00 a.m.

“We have great music, and look forward to welcoming people from all over the world”, says the Rector, the Rev. John M. Wehrs, Sr., Fr. Jack+ as he is known around town. In addition to the regular Sunday services, the church celebrates all the Liturgical Rites, such as Advent, Ash Wednesday, Lent, Christmas Eve, and Easter. There are scheduled Bible classes,

18

and the church congregation serves over 450 kids Rosca de Reyes cake and chocolate milk at Epiphany to nearby schools and the Huichol community in outlying areas. They bring baby blankets to the newborns at the Regional hospital, as well as provide food and clothing for the poor in the area. The church is located on the frontage road, across the street from the airport, immediately next to Sixt Car Rental agency. Casual dress. Visit their website at:christchurchbythesea.org or contact Fr Jack at 044 322 229-1129

tion clinic in Old Town. Only open Sundays, arrive by 8am, no reservations are taken. Contact: cez@ rogers.com or 322-104-6609 CompassionNet Impact – Transforming the lives of people living in chronic poverty. Job creation, education, emergency food, medicine & clothing. Tax-deductible. Cell: (322) 133-7263 or 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 Desayunos para los Niños de Vallarta A.C. Feeding programs, education programs, day care centers for single mothers. 22 343 11 or 22 225 72 FB/desayunosninosvallarta Discapacitados de Vallarta, A.C. (DIVAC) association of handicapped individuals dedicated to helping one another. Ivan Applegate at 221-5153.

Families At The Dump: Supporting families living in the landfill or garbage dump thru education and sustainable opportunities. www. familiesatthedump.org or 297-7425 Grupo Ecológico de Puerto Vallarta: Arq. Luz del Carmen Pérez Alvarez cayro_13@hotmail.com grupoecologico.com Friends of PV Animals Volunteers working 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

at 224-9966 or Jimmie Ellis at 222-1478.

Horizonte de Paz: Shelter for men of all ages who are troubled with alcohol & drug addiction. Donato Schimizzi: 322 199 9523 or Roberto: 281 0644 dschimizzi@yahoo.com

Proyecto Pitillal, “Busca un Amigo” - Association created by underprivileged mothers of paralyzed children.

Contact: 299-4495.

La Brigada de la Basur:a A weekly meeting of neighborhood children to clean Vallarta Streets. Contact Que?Pasa 223-4006 Navy League - assists in the transportation of donated medical supplies from the U.S., organizes work groups to paint and repair facilities, and operates the local Toys for Tots program. www.vallartanavyleague.org.

New Life Mexico - Challenging Child Poverty with health and education programs. Philippa Vernon pvp@ newlifemexico.com Paraíso Felino AC Refuge and Adoption Centre for cats and kittens in the Bay of Banderas. Luis Donaldo Cel. (322) 120-4092 Pasitos de Luz - substitute home for low income children with any type of handicap, offers rehabilitation services and 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. Tax-deductible. www.peaceanimals.org Pro Biblioteca de Vallarta - Raises funds for Los Mangos Public Library.

Tax-deductible Ricardo Murrieta

Puerto Vallarta Garden Club: Beautify and protecting the environment. www.vallartagardenclub.com PuRR Project - A no-kill cat shelter, a natural un-caged environment. www.purrproject.com Refugio Infantil Santa EsperanzaShelter for Children. Tax-deductible.

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: Math, English and computer programs a priority. 100% goes to the kids. www.kids.romamexico.com The International Friendship Club (IFC) - Supports the Cleft Palate Surgery Program & families in need.

322-222-5466. www.ifcvallarta.com. ifcvallarta@gmail.com.

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

Vallarta Saludable (Healthy) – Healthy living through organics, stevias, cooking workshops, serums reversing dialysis and reality show.

NAOTF.org Suzy Chaffee suzynativevoices@aol.com

EVENTS

www.vallartatribune.com

Paradise Community Center Events Paradise Community Center Events 127 Pulpito - Across from Coco’s Kitchen Community Centre Box Office Tuesday through Saturday 9:30-2pm More details and tickets at ParadiseCommunityCenter.com

EVERY WEEK – Closed Mondays Every Tuesday Film Series at 7pm Tuesday - Friday 9:45am Zumba Exercise Tuesday – Saturday 10am-2pm Fashions 4 Charity Consignment Tuesday-Saturday 9:30-2pm Book and Bean Coffee Shop Tuesday at 11am Line Dance Class Tuesday to Friday at 8:30am Yoga Saturday Farmer’s Market 9am-1pm Sunday Service at 10:30am Paradise Church Spanish classes contact Maria at spanishpv@gmail.com

Concerts & Music on the Paradise Stage “The Best of the Bay” Bedazzled Broadway: Saturdays 8pm thru Dec 14 The Blonde Gypsies: 8pm Wednesday December 4 and 18 Banderas Bay Jazz Allstars: Friday December 13 and 27 at 8pm PV Chamber Orchestra Christmas Concert: Sunday December 15 at 3pm Time to Play Christmas Show: Friday and Saturday Dec 20, 21 Community Christmas Eve Service: Tuesday Dec 24 at 4pm and 5:30pm

Happening this Week!

Gary Beck says, “A new musical revue not to be missed.”

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Dame Edna Christens the Palm

by Marcia Blondin

marciavallarta@gmail.com

M

y poor face is going to be so sore tomorrow...I have not laughed so hard or so much for such a long time that I fear my mother’s curse of “your face is going freeze like that,” will indeed come true. The world is full of female impersonators (especially around here) and there are dozens of excellent impressionists and tons of stand-up comedians and comics that make up much of their routines as they go along and many who single out audience members in order to get laughs.

And there are hundreds of trained operatic voices although they rarely appear on cabaret-style stages.

Well, guess what? The Palm has found all of the above characteristics in one great big outrageous BABE named Dame Edna.

This was opening night, November 13, at the Palm and Dame Edna’s show sold out

so fast a second was added to begin virtually on the heels of the first. Well, maybe time for one costume change and a little drinkie-winkie to recharge.

I had the pleasure of meeting Michael Walters after his outstanding show. We chatted for a few minutes - I asked whether he had a baritone or bass voice; he is a baritone. Possibly a strange question if you have never heard Dame Edna in action. She is a pushy, yet sweet, Aussie to the bone.

The accent that everyone in the world uses to make an advertising point ever since that little lizard opened his mouth. The Aussie word “mate”, however, never crossed her lips but “Possum” did often. Hilarious delivery coming from her. She looks quite... um, majestic with her purple (mauve, actually) hair and fabulous cat-eye glasses. Oh god, and the wardrobe… stunning. By the way, it is considered trendy to don similarly-styled glasses

Friday Nov 29 - Dec 5, 2013

and mauve wig while being the audience. During the second half of her outrageously funny show, she talked a bit about singing and launched into “Hello Dolly” exactly like Carol Channing then switched to Louis Armstrong, a line from Carol then a line or two from Louis then back and forth so fast I swear Dame Edna sang a duet.

THEN she started singing “Old Man River” and every jaw in the Palm hit the floor at the same time.

We were all astonished, surprised and a little bit confused (those of us who had never had the honor of hearing Dame Edna sing) to say the least. The audience stood as one when she finished; the applause would have gone on and justifiably so - for the rest of the night but, there was another show yet to do and the current one to finish.

There are still a few shows at The Palm to see Dame Edna in all her glory before she hops on a plane to Florida. She will be back in Vallarta in January but don’t wait; you will want to go back and see her again and again. Check with the box office or go to VallartaTickets.com for showtimes. Enjoy Possums!

Saturday nights through December 14, we celebrate fifty years of Broadway’s best with Bedazzled Broadway!

This is a great show! Featuring a professional cast of favorite Vallarta entertainers, this dazzling production showcases best loved numbers from Broadway hits like Les Miserable, Phantom of the Opera, Wicked, Beauty & Beast and South Pacific.

Wednesday, Dec 4 we have The Blonde Gypsies back from Europe and returning to Puerto Vallarta and the Paradise Stage.

This duo spends most of their time entertaining in Nayarit so we are blessed to hear their Gypsy Flamenco guitar skills on our Southside stage. Latcho and Andrea make their guitars sing in perfect harmony and then add incredible percussion to the mix. They’ll be back every other Wednesday through the season.

Check out LatchoAndrea.com

Latcho and Andrea, the Blonde Gypsies

By Maria Blondin istening to these two European Bohemians playing Flamenco music it is impossible to keep still - toes tap, hands clap; if you are standing, movement is essential or you may fly apart. Love songs abound and by request, my favorite piece for guitar - el Concierto de Aranjuez

by Rodrigo - was given a definite Gypsy twist; powerful and emotional. Lovely vocals and

L

guitar from Andrea...and castanets! I wish I had seen her dance Flamenco just once. Wow! For the past 17 years they have spent much time in Mexico, the rest in Europe and the United States on tour. They live outside Vallarta and we rarely get to hear and see them, however, they will be appearing every other Wednesday at 8 pm at the Paradise Stage. Do not miss their sensational concerts; next one December 4th.

Friday Nov 29 - Dec 5, 2013

ART & CULTURE 20

www.vallartatribune.com

José Clemente Orozco An Incredible Artist, but a Major Embarrassment

By Tom Swanson

www.colibridesignvallarta.com

O

rozco is considered by the art world to be one of the “Big Three” of Mexican muralism, along with Diego Rivera and David Alfaro Siqueiros.

However, his popularity among the Mexican people, in particular the PRI government, has been sparse. Many of his great works have been left to deteriorate, most of those having been painted in government buildings. An example is the famous mural of Padre Hidalgo decreeing an end to slavery that is painted in our own Jalisco State Legislature, which has been fading and peeling off for almost a decade. Finally, under strong protest and criticism from art and cultural groups, there is talk of doing the restoration work that is so necessary.

The murals he did in Veracruz, that were severely damaged in the earthquake of 1973 languished for over 20 years before repairs were even started. There seem to be a number of very selfish reasons for

all of this, along with a strong dose of the usual public indifference. It could be argued by some that, by telling the ugly truth, the artist brought much of this abandonment upon himself.

Orozco was born on November 23, 1883, in what is now Ciudad Guzmán, here in Jalisco. While he was young he lost his left hand and much of his hearing in an accidental gunpowder explosion. Still in school, he moved to Querétaro. Every day, on his way back and forth from school, he would stop to stare into the windows of the workshop of José Guadalupe Posada, the now-famous satirist and engraver that brought the world the image of Catrina. These were defining moments for the young Orozco.

He wrote, “I would stop and spend a few enchanted moments watching... It set my imagination in motion... this was my awakening to the existence of the art of painting.” Posada probably never knew this part of what he has accomplished for the world.

Orozco went on to study art at the Academy of San Carlos in Mexico City, the first major art school and art museum in the Americas. In 1927, he moved to the U.S. where he worked for 7 years. While there he did the amazing mural of over 3,000 square feet, The Epic of American Civilization, at Dartmouth College in New Hampshire. Returning to Mexico, he went on to become a prominent leader of the movement known as Mexican Muralism, along with Diego Rivera. But their views of life in Mexico were very different. Where Rivera was very

pro-revolution, in fact an active communist, Orozco painted the other face of war, the pain, suffering, blood and the corruption and injustice widely practiced by the whole of the Mexican government.

Just after the end of the Mexican Revolution, it was widely believed that Mexico was going to change, to become a thriving democracy like its northern neighbor. Orozco was a sought after artist.

But alas, this sweeping social change was not to be. Along came the “perfect dictatorship” of the PRI, and very little of the old ways really changed. Orozco has three floors of beautiful murals in the front of the Supreme Court in Mexico City. They depict corrupt justices taking bribes, lawyers dragging defendants through mountains of paperwork and so on. It still works that way today, Mexico´s judicial system is so bogged down that as little as 2% of criminal cases end with convictions. Civil actions are won by the one who can pay the most. Hence Orozco is seen by some as an embarrassing reminder of what they really are but would rather not be talked about or reminded of.

Today Mexico is experiencing the infant beginnings of a period of hopeful change, an emergence of political awareness.

With more and more people using the internet and social media, there is a growing understanding that things have to change, and the works of Orozco are taking on a new significance. He may well become an engine of social change after all.

José Clemente Orozco died in Mexico City on September 7, 1949

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Plaza Caracol holds regular community oriented events including musical presentations, pet rescue, art shows and holiday festivities.

There is always something exciting going on here! Visit Plaza Caracol today to experience the warmth and hospitality of a truly Vallartense destination. We welcome you to Plaza Caracol.

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.

Plaza Caracol is the most established shopping centre in Puerto Vallarta with over 25 years in the community.

At Plaza Caracol you will find more services, shops and events than any other shopping centre in the city.

Visit these excellent locations and more at Plaza Caracol Boutique simarik: everything for the modern woman. Most current fashion trends with the best prices. Season clothing, shoes, accessories, perfumes, bikinis. We pride ourselves on offering the best personal attention. For christmas we have an excellent selection of gifts. Visit us to learn why Simarik is the best fashion boutique. We are waiting for you.

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