Issue 876, Jan 17 to 23, 2014

Catch us online @ vallartatribune.com

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Travel MASCOTA- back in time

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Jan 17 - 24, 2014 Free Issue 876

Art & Culture Bill white

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Nature Diversity of Mexico

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Painting by Alfredo Langarica courtesy of Galeria Pacifico

Night of Fire El Rio Bbq Bar $250 Pesos Dinner Music Fire Show January 25

welcome 02

Friday Jan 17 - 23, 2014 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 Team Fatima Bedolla ventastribuna7@yahoo.com Ma. Yolanda Meza yoly@vallartatribune.com Rebeca Castellón rebeca.castellonn@gmail.com Community Manager / Sales 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 03

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Editor´s Note

S

o I had big plans this weekend. I was going to do nothing… nothing at all. Saturday I hit up the markets and said my hello’s around town before heading home to get ready to go out on the town in Bucerias.

Then my phone rang. “I’ve been in a bad accident.

I’m on my way to the hospital, “ says my brother who is here on an extended vacation. Oh, three broken ribs, broken shoulder blade, lucky to be alive, stupidly not wearing a helmet, missing a lot of skin off his knees and everywhere, brother of mine.

Amerimed is a lovey hospital, really professional, clean, helpful; everything you could want in a moment like this. Though I do think they could add a rooftop restaurant with lounge chairs and maybe a small dipping pool. You know, for those long hours spent waiting while your loved one is passed out on pain meds.

So your vacation/weekend isn’t totally confined to florescent lights and too-cold air-conditioning.

In my three days at the hospital I saw a large number of foreigners go through those doors with some kind of emergency or another.

If you haven’t, please take a moment to check your insurance papers and truly understand what

you are covered for and what you aren’t. At about $32,000, this vacation could have paid to put helmets on all the unprotected heads in Puerto Vallarta.

You will be pleased to know my, can’t believe it’s not worse, brother has a long road to recovery but will be just fine. And I have one more story to add to the ever growing docudrama that is my life in Mexico.

This weekend I’m heading north for the first Sayulita Film festival. I plan on enjoying myself immensely. Look for me Saturday night at Don Pedros. I’ll be the one with two shot glasses.

Because the drive is just too far I’m going to stick to that end of the Bay and hopefully getting up in time to check out the always fabulous La Cruz Sunday Market and maybe splash around at Playa La Manzanilla. If you don’t want to head all the way to Sayulita – think about checking out the 3rd Annual Taste of La Cruz at the Marina Riviera Nayarit from 3pm - 7pm and sample food from some of the top restaurants in the area.

I trust your week was better than mine and I hope this weekend will be filled with friends, family and a whole lotta nothin’. See you in Sayulita? I’ll let you buy me a drink!

Madeline

Letters to the Editor I wanted to thank you and compliment you on the excellent work you are doing with the Vallarta Tribune. My wife and I have been coming to PV for years and in that time we have seen the Tribune rise and fall a couple of times, however we both agree that you have taken it to its greatest height yet and we look forward to getting our copy each week now.

Secondly, I would like to express my continued disappointment with the state of the roads here in Puerto Vallarta. For the life of me, I can not understand how a city who collects so much tourism money from hotel room taxes has so little money left over to spend on infrastructure. I have been to other destinations like Cabo and Mazatlan and they both have impeccable streets and roads.

Come on Puerto Vallarta!

Spend a little more money on fixing the roads and little less time on constantly replacing the palm trees around the marina.

Carl and Judy Tucson, Arizona

Friday Jan 17 - 23, 2014

Around Town with Julie

juliemongeau@gmail.com

S

ince there so many activities and events coming up in the next few weeks, I decided to guide you to a few of my top picks that I will most likely be taking part in.

Well you can’t go wrong with starting your weekend at the Old Town Farmers Market, while you’re there fill your pockets with fresh goodies and hop on a bus to the Festival Sayulita, where they will be showcasing great Films, Tequila, music and surf.

On Sunday if you are a little fatigued from your hectic Saturday, head up the river to Paso Ancho at El Rio BBQ, to indulge in succulent ribs all the while enjoying the calmness of the river and the jungle, No utensils necessary!!!

Or simply spend the day at the beach. Monday pack some sunscreen and a hat, and embark on a whale watching tour, I hear it’s a must, I still haven’t had the chance to witness up-close those fabulous creatures; I would love to hear about your experience.

Tuesday night swing by the PCC for a relaxing movie night and on Wednesday night take a trip to Louisiana, where southern belles will enchant you in the play Steel Magnolia at Act II. Just a little heads up, El Rio BBQ will be hosting The Night of Fire on Saturday January 25th,

Cruise Ship Arrivals

Ahoy! Welcome to Puerto Vallarta

the evening will be lit with candles and torches, animated with live music and dancing, will be complimented by a diner buffet.

Doors open 7:00pm, $250 pesos in advance $300 at the door. For more info you can contact me directly.

Don’t forget that on January 26th I invite you to join me for a few giggles as I will be walking the catwalk at the Not Your Typical Puerto Vallarta Fashion Show!

Smiles juliemongeau@gmail.com

NEWS 04

Friday Jan 17 - 23, 2014

Vallarta’s Got Talent

by Marcia Blondin

marciavallarta@gmail.com

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n an exclusive interview for the Vallarta Tribune, producer Danny Mininni had this announcement to make..."Act II Entertainment's constant effort is to find the very best talent in the Bay and to also provide a home for those many talented people - Nationals and ex-pats - that live here in the Bay of Banderas. We are so excited to announce the next big show: Vallarta's Got Talent.

With the huge success of The Voice of Vallarta we knew we had hit just the tip of the iceberg; Vallarta has so much talent and Act II is always looking for people to come and play with us.

So, Vallarta's Got Talent will take the Voice of Vallarta and add rocket jets by opening the competition to all kinds of artists

- singers, musicians, dancers, dance troupes, comedians and magicians. If you live in the Bay area and think you have a talent that the world needs to see, we have a stage for you to perform it on. We want to see it all!

Act II is in the early stages of pre-production and the format of the show is still in development but we can tell you that the top ten winners will be part of a Variety Show to be performed on the Act II Main Stage.

The overall winner will have a show completely devoted to his or her particular talent. We will be looking for 80 of the best performers with the first phase of auditions being announced in the near future. We anticipate opening night of Vallarta's Got Talent to be soon after the winner of THE VOICE OF VALLARTA is announced."

BUSINESS Telmex and América Móvil connected part of the undersea cable that joins Mexico to Latin America and the US in Cancún, Quintana Roo. The project required an investment of close to 1.1 billion dollars.

Correos de México signed an agreement with its German affiliate DHL Express Mexico to offer courier and packaging services on a global basis with guaranteed times.

Nutresa, the Colombian manufacturer of food products, will invest 40 million dollars in Acatlán de Juárez, Jalisco, where it will create 240 jobs.

PepsiCo (Sabritas) entered a strategic alliance with the Banco Nacional de México (Banamex)

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to roll out a financing program for small sunflower seed producers in Zacatecas, which will also be supported by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).

ECONOMY

The Mexican economy will grow by 4% in 2014 and 4.2% in 2015, revealed the United Nation’s (UN) World Economic Situation and Prospects report.

Mexico had the fourth lowest unemployment rate among the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries in October 2013, recording a rate of 4.9%, well below the organization’s 7.9% average.

Mexico is the seventh largest economy among OECD members in terms of purchasing power parity, with a 4.2% contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) out of the 34 member economies. With this, the country surpasses Canada, Korea, Australia and Spain.

The budget for support programs for Mexican entrepreneurs and MSMBs will grow from 7.8 billion to more than 10 billion pesos in 2014, according to the SE. The Federal Electricity Commission (CFE) will invest more than 50 billion dollars in the energy sector during this administration.

E-commerce in Mexico has annual growth rates of almost 50% and a market that will be worth around 15 billion dollars in five years. In the last five years, its value has increased more than fivefold and its current size is over 45 million potential buyers online, according to Euromonitor.

Latin American and Caribbean economies will grow by 3.2% in 2014, 0.6 percentage points more than the 2.6% at the close of 2013, estimated the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (Cepal).

TOURISM

The Ministry of Communications and Transportation (SCT) will invest an initial 5 billion pesos in the expansion of the Mexico City International Airport (AICM), which includes the construction of Terminal 3 starting in 2014. tourism in Mexico will close 2013

with currency income of close to 9% of the GDP and begin 2014 with 176 projects of more than 8.6 billion dollars, revealed the Ministry of Tourism (Sectur).

Spa tourism in Mexico will increase by 11% over the next three years, generating an economic spillover of 1.471 billion dollars by 2016, estimated Euromonitor.

IN THE NEWS

“Electronic payments are paying off for Mexico,”

Fortune, 03/12/2013 Going digital is saving the government more than a 1 billion dollars.

More importantly, it is creating a new market for banks and financial services firms.

“Enel Green starts work on 196-million dollar Mexico wind-energy plant,” Bloomberg, 11/12/2013 Enel Green Power, a unit of Italy’s biggest utility, started work on a 196-million dollar wind farm in Mexico’s central municipality of Charcas through local subsidiary Dominica Energía Limpia.

“BRICs creator O’Neill wowed by new Lula’s success: Mexico credit,” Bloomberg, 18/12/2013 Jim O’Neill has been tracking economic reform initiatives in countries across the world during his 33-year career on Wall Street.

Only a few of them, he said, rank higher than what Mexico achieved this year.

“Mexico, the most remarkable of 2013,”

La Nación, 31/12/2013 The fact is that, in 2013, Mexico was the only country in the Americas—including the US—in which government and opposition ended decades of polarization and political standstill to approve deep economic, political and education reforms.

NEWS 05

Friday Jan 17 - 23, 2014

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Tourism Spending for ’13 may Hit Historic Mark Rocío Zayas

Secure Donation Program Set to Begin in Puerto Vallarta Doraliz Terrón Moreno Translated by Michelle Mayer Fulfer

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uerto Vallarta has been chosen as the host city in the development of an exciting pilot program as the Jalisco Institute of Social Assistance (IJAS) launches the Secure Donation Campaign focused on raising money for those in need.

Omar Fabian Muro Muro, the state’s Head of Institutional Development, said that this port was chosen chiefly because of the important activity that exists in the area of social assistance.

He stressed that this town has always stood out as an example for other districts in terms of the work management and project development.

Thus, the campaign will be implemented in the city that has shown proven results in the past.

Based on evaluation process, the campaign will then be rolled out throughout Jalisco.

He added that the program’s creation and design is aimed at American and Canadian tourists who visit the area and its beaches.

The peak of the holiday tourism season is in early February when the campaign is expected to be up and running.

He added that after an evaluation of this campaign drive, an initial amount of 100,000 pesos will be invested directed at a quality advertising campaign

focused on print and broadcast media, in addition to publicity at hotels, restaurants and bus stops.

In a meeting with representatives of the private sector, governmental and media leaders, a tentative date for the formal start of this campaign was agreed upon as the 10th of February.

Similarly, it was decided that this program would carefully cull through images.

The chosen images will champion worthy projects instead of elicit pity.

This campaign will focus on funding in four chief sectors, namely the areas of child care, special education, seniors and environmental causes.

The members of this committee ensure that the campaign will be managed with full transparency.

Collection piggy banks will be installed at strategic points and will comprise of sealed transparent containers to ensure that the local population and tourists feel confident about the ultimate fate of their donation.

Moreover, they will also engage students since young people have a ready knack and are proven specialists in the management of social networking and technology tools. It is hoped that this will help spread the word of the campaign.

The campaign has also sought the support of the Consulate of the United States and Canada who can provide guidance on how best to engage foreign visitors.

Explore Banderas Bay

P

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

Polar Vortex Boon for Warm Weather Vacation Destinations

By Genevieve Shaw Brown

T

he polar vortex is good business for more than hat and mitten makers.

Warm-weather vacation destinations are at the top of mind -- and internet searches -this week. The phrase “warm weather vacation” was searched on Google more than two times as often in the first seven days of January than it was the entire month of January 2013.

The polar punch, said Gabe Saglie of travel site Travelzoo, “will only drive consumer desire for warm weather travel upward.”

Travelzoo is one of several companies seeing double- and even triple-digit spikes in volume when it comes to searches for warm-weather vacations.

Travelzoo reports some

warm-weather destinations are being searched as much as 300 percent more now than they were during the same time period last year. Volume for searches on trips to Los Cabos, Mexico, is up more than 300 percent; to the Bahamas, 190 percent; to Puerto Vallarta, 170 percent; and to Jamaica, 160 percent.

And it’s not just dreaming about the warmth that’s happening, actual money is being spent. Hotwire.com said the spike in bookings to warm-weather destinations started over the weekend when the cold weather began to ramp up. Orlando (up 17%), Honolulu (up 30%), Phoenix (up 25%), Las Vegas (up 28%) and Los Angeles (up 10%) are some of the more popular destinations benefitting from the cold.

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exico has become the most popular international destination for U.S. tourists, as a report from the U.S. Department of Commerce Travel and Tourism Office said 15.2 million U.S. citizens visited Mexico in 2013.

The figure, up from 14.9 million in 2012, accounts for 32 percent of all international tourists from the U.S. in 2013, whereas 21 percent chose to spend time in Canada.

A report from the Banco de México, the nation’s central bank, said that international visitors to Mexico between January and October 2013 spent $11 million, 8.6 percent more than in 2012. The report predicted that the entire spend for 2013 would exceed the historic high in 2008.

Sectur reported that hotel occupations during the past year were up by 5.6 percent compared to 2012, as well as total private investment in the tourism industry of 112 billion pesos ($8.6 billion).

There were 19 new airline routes created last year, 13 domestic and six international, with a 10.7 percent increase in international flights.

A report carried out by CNET and the Anáhuac México-Norte University discovered that there was an 8.4 increase in international travel into the country during the first eight months of 2013.

The biggest increases were travelers from Colombia (58.4 percent), the U.K. (18 percent), the U.S (8.9 percent), Brazil (5.4 percent) and Argentina (4.9 percent).

Originally published at The News

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.

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LOCAL 06

Friday Jan 17 - 23, 2014

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“Bodies In Transit”

Paradise and Parenting

by Yoel Diaz Galvez at Galeria Contempo

By Heather Wilson

F

rom a migratory point of view, what constitutes one’s identity? Is it our place of birth? Is it how we look?

Cuban-born artist Yoel Diaz Galvez believes it is our essence, or spirit, that defines who we really are. But that it is via our miraculous bodies, “passionate instruments with never-ending fountains of movement and character,” that our spirit finds its way.

Stripped of everything but one’s human anatomy, Diaz Galvez’ upcoming exhibition makes a formidable statement about Cubans leaving the island. While a simple boat represents the desire to reach a place where one might self actualize, the Tocorro – Cuba’s national bird and therefore a symbol of his original identity – sends an ironic message.

“I have always been motivated to distance myself from stereotypes regarding the human body, because in my works it fulfills a vigorous, dramatically different role than merely that of an aesthetic object” Diaz Galvez explains.

Shocking in their vitality and precision, yet amazingly subtle in

By Leza Warkentin

Today

Y character, “the figurative nature and the theme of my paintings arouse various sensations that are marked by shades of gray.”

And in this case, those monochromatic shades are exquisitely burnished and textured to evoke moods and feelings awakening the observer to startling new realities.

This artist with his compelling world view and style is definitely one to keep an eye on. His hyperrealistic pieces Collected by individuals, businesses and museums throughout Europe and elsewhere, just this past November, Diaz Galvez was

Explore Banderas Bay Walking Tours Take a tour through Puerto Vallarta’s Historic Downtown to learn 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.

Shopping in the Zona Romantica – this charming neighbour-

honored with the prestigious Lorenzo II Magnifico Award in Italy.

Competing with 450 artists from around the globe at the esteemed Ninth Annual Florence Biennal, he received second prize in the all-important painting category.

And now we get to experience his gripping works right here in Puerto Vallarta, at Galeria Contempo during his Opening Reception on Friday the 24th of January from 6pm to 10pm.

Galeria Contempo is located at Basilio Badillo 252, in the South Side.

Phone: 322 223 19 25 www.galeriacontempo.com

hood 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

ou’ve surely heard it said: Once a Parent, Always a Parent. When they are little, they call us to their beds at night, just as they will one day call us to pick them up from a party that went south, or to tell us they are engaged, or to ask us to post bail at the local police station (that one’s just hypothetical, of course).

And when we get those calls, we will answer. Because we are mom or dad, and that’s what we do.

As strange as it sounds, that’s what should guide us as we parent from day to day. I think I will post the following on my bathroom mirror to remind me of what I can do right now, on this day, to ensure that it is me they will always call, knowing that I will never fail to answer.

Today, when you come downstairs in the morning before I’ve had my coffee, I’ll make you hot chocolate and we’ll whisper together.

Today I will smile more.

Today, when you tell me that you want to make Minecraft tutorials on Youtube when you grow up, I’ll get excited instead of explaining the difference between a career and a hobby.

Today I will tell you a story about when you were born, or when I met your dad, or when I was a little girl.

Today I will walk away and take a deep breath before I deal with your dinner table mutiny.

Today I will tell you I’m proud of you.

Today I will stop what I’m doing and look into your eyes when you tell me something, just

like I always insist that you do.

Today I will watch you while you sleep.

Today I will forgive myself for not getting it right. A lot.

Today I will leave the dishes, lay on your pink bed in your purple room and read Fancy Nancy to you at least twice.

Today I won’t tell you I told you so even though I really did tell you so.

Today I will slow my pace and walk beside you, even though it might make me late.

Today I’ll let you do my makeup. And I’ll go out without wiping it off.

Today I will remember that I used to think words about bodily functions were hilarious too. And sometimes still do.

Today I will stop worrying about you. For an hour at least.

Today I will remember that, just because you won’t have all of my childhood experiences, it doesn’t mean that you’re not having a great childhood. You’re just having one without any negative temperature readings.

And tomorrow morning, when you come downstairs again before I’ve had my coffee, I’ll remember about Today. And get out the chocolate syrup.

two (or more!) of exploring. Close to Los Muertos beach, consider ending your day with a sunset margarita at any of the many beachfront restaurants.

Sunsets on the Malecon - Sitting on the edge of the Pacific Ocean never fails to give us a sunset each night. Grab a seat at any of

the number of excellent bars and restaurants along the malecon, order your favourite cocktail and let it all slip away.

Once the sun has set, the malecon comes alive with families out for a stroll, plenty of live entertainment and later in the night, the nightclubs beckon.

local 07

Friday Jan 17 - 23, 2014

This is Paradise...

By Marcia Blondin marciavallarta@gmail.com

I

am going to have to change the name of my column to This is Paradise STAGE! Boy, oh, boy do we have some serious music happening this season.

The Banderas Bay Jazz Allstars sold out last Friday...no surprise to those in the know - these guys are sensational. I said to one gentleman who attended the concert that I would be happy if they played nothing but Jingle

Bells for two sets - they would make that tune smoke!

The BBJA will be at the Paradise Stage every Friday night at 8 pm. Get your tickets early.

Come for dinner and Joy’s fab Margaritas and enjoy some of the best music on the planet. Speaking of....Bedazzled Broadway re-debuted after a few weeks hiatus with a new face and what a voice! Elvis: Welcome to the

Paradise Community Center.

Thursday this week we host the Vallarta Garden Club’s monthly meeting. Every third Thursday everyone is welcome to come at 11 am.

There is no charge and always there is an interesting speaker with a new take on gardening.

You are also invited to become a member of this eclectic mix of

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mostly ex-pats who have done such a marvelous job of beautifying our city.

The Garden Club is also sponsoring the 2014 2nd Annual Bougainvillea Festival in May. We would love it if you would get involved with the Festival organizers - this is going to be an extraordinary International three day event.

We have been meeting weekly; working like mad to make sure the Festival goes according to plan. Talk to me or to the Garden Club reps at the Saturday Co-op Market from 9 to 1 every week, all year long. I will be there, of course, so drop in and say hi.

Next week I will have a review of Luna Rumba’s debut concert Thursday night. Pastor Ric is actually opening the PCC on Monday (we are ALWAYS closed on Monday!) the 20th for a second concert.

New show at Galleria Dante on Jan 24th

Galleria Dante is located at Basilio Badillo 269

B

orn in Guadalajara in 1949, Oscar studied in the Fine Arts school at the U of G, where he received the Luis Echeverreia medal for the best student of sculpture. Over the years, his admirers are in awe as his jumps between mediums: bronze, silver, resins, polymers, metal, stainless steel, wood, granite, alabaster, onyx, petrified wood, semi-precious stones, ceramic, found objects and stained glass.

He is a master of the ancient technique of estofado, which involves a special paint finish over silver & gold lead that has been applied to finely chiselled wooden used within the Catholic church for

centuries. Oscar always personalizes his “one of a kind”, two-sided sculptures with his unique style of “magic realism”.

Every sculpture has a story, every story includes a time and place in the memories of Oscar, past and present. “My work arises from my need to share my soul with the viewer, through images of my childhood, rescuing pre-Hispanic dances and rituals, keeping them alive in time. The cultural roots of my people are recognizable in my work. For me it is very important not to forget my childhood experiences, so I have recorded them into my sculptures.

They are stories that I would like to share with others.”

MIGUEL ANGEL DEL CAMPO

B

orn in Lagos de Moreno, Jalisco, he currently lives and works in Guadalajara.. He studied Fine Arts at the Cabañas Cultural Instituto from 1992 to 1995, and specialized in wood and stone carving courses in 1996.

Constant touring in the Mexican states of Jalisco, Michoacan and Oaxaca brought him closer to the magic of the original artisan crafts of those areas and the complexity of shapes, colors and narrative told in each piece.

“To observe the craftsmanship of the people, we reach deep down to uncover their deepest feelings, their festivals, their customs, their thoughts.

Walter Gropios summed it up

Paradise Community Center, Pulpito 127 between Olas Altas and Amapas Streets in Old Town Puerto Vallarta smack in the middle of the Zona Romantica...aka The Theatre District (remember where you saw it first!)

“Each of my works represents a knot in the fabric that I forge day by day”

Cocktails 6 to 10 pm

OSCAR ZAMARRIPA

If half of what we have heard about this group is correct, the Paradise Stage will have yet another blockbuster on its hands.

Latcho and Andrea, the Blonde Gypsies, return on the 22nd with the best Flamenco music in Vallarta.

I almost forgot: Movie Night every Tuesday at 7 pm. Next week the Democrats Abroad presents the film “42”.

Take good care of our visitors and remember how lucky we are to live in this magical place. So smile at someone you don’t know with your whole face.

Until next week, ciao!

in a phrase: There does not exist a substantial difference between craftsman and artist, the artist is an inspired craftsman. And I believe that it’s a mix that never fully merges together. Each of my works represents a knot in the fabric that I forge day by day. For that reason, I seek to make each of my pieces unique, different from the rest. Each creation is the result of the past, present and future,” del Campo says.

In 1997, Miguel Angel traveled to the city of Florence, Italy, where he lived until 2007. For four years, he directed the design area of a ceramic factory (cotto) in the town of Strada in Chianti. For

three years, he was a professor of sculpture at the ADA art academy, also in Florence. During his stay in Italy, de Campo participated in competitions, two of which are awarded internationally.

Over the years he participated in many art exhibitions, both collectively and individually. He founded the “Asociación Cultural Arteria” in Florence. Between 2006 and 2011 he developed his work and participated in events in Mexico, Italy, Colombia and USA. In his words: “My work revolves mainly around three elements: Metamorphosis, Change and Movement.

I am currently developing a project called Mixed Beings - a series of sculptures in which the botanical world, animals, minerals, insects, objects and the human being, are intertwined. I define it as ‘mixed beings,’ but also as ‘beings of light.’

Beings who are born of light and follow the light (born and reborn) - like plants’ tropism (total or partial movement of organisms in response to a stimulus) toward light – or ‘Rooster-Man’ - born as a man and reborn as a cock.”

LOCAL 08

Friday Jan 17 - 23, 2014

New Tendencies In Psychological Help

By Jean Martin pv.psychotherpy@gmail.com

Hypnosis, Guided Meditation and Regressions

W

hen people hear hypnosis many were skeptical when it came to letting someone guide them into the subconscious. It is powerful and has even become theatrical in many cases, making the people submitted to it behave as animals only to have no memory of it whatsoever.

Psychological use is much different. A patient must agree to the process and make a commitment to remember what was said and done. There are many types of hypnosis and it’s purposes. It can be very useful for treating people that wish to change an unhealthy habit, such as smoking or overeating, but the main purpose is that it has access to a part of your thought process where words and reasoning won’t work.

Guided meditation can make you conquer an inner fear so that you can find your strength and power and move on to do the same in real life. It can tap into an image of spirituality or light that can help you heal an illness or disease.

Regressions and Healing This method is used for the sole purpose of going back to a certain time and place where something altered your wellbeing. In this process a person interacts with the therapist while under hypnosis and they both disembark on a journey that neither of them know where it will go. You may have

www.vallartatribune.com

always been subject to neck pain and never knew that the possible origin may have been feeling choked by your umbilical cord.

The feeling or sensation leads the session allowing the person to get to the “core reason” and then find different alternatives to reprogramming and beginning life differently.

It is particularly useful for memory lapses, where you are afraid to go.

Repressed memories are usually helpful in seeing “the big picture of our life” allowing us to move on. As for going to a previous life, some people have been known to do so.

Curing this life is hard enough but sometimes the brain has a previous experience that we know very little of. Be it imagination or reality they are both an important part of the structure of the brain and if it surfaces it is worth healing. All in all it is a useful tool that given the appropriate confidence in the therapist can shed a light and heal even the unknown.

Jean Martin Bilingual Guestalt Psychotherapist pv.psychotherpy@gmail.com specializes in areas such as Body/Movement therapy Regressions, Family Constellations and Emotional Development Profile Mobile: 322 1416731 Skype: Jeannefly1705

O

f course you don’t want to spend hours in the gym when you are here in paradise! With so much to see and do and enjoy, it seems impossible to find time for everything, right? With that in mind, we at T Zone health and fitness can offer you the perfect workout! Anyone can find 10 minutes during the day to invest in their health and well being. You can accomplish the equivalent of a one hour workout in the gym in that short time.

This will leave you more time to relax in the sun sipping your margarita; and isn’t that why you’re here in Paradise?

With our whole body oscillating vibration technology you can quickly achieve what is referred to as daily optimum step coverage or walking distance. In plain words, this is what fitness gurus say we should be walking per day, in a perfectly fit world.

That’s right, in just 10 minutes you’ve added thousands of steps helping to achieve your days optimal walking distance. As a bonus, you have built lean muscle while burning body fat, boosted your circulation tremendously, built that ever important bone density, increased flexibility, drained toxins from the body through total body muscle movement, stimulated your youthful skin promoter collagen, and left our studio smiling thanks to all those wonderful ‘feel good’ endorphins coursing through your brain.

You can see why our client base is growing, but it is inches they are losing! Since opening our doors less than one year ago, overall inches lost at our T Zone studio exceeds the 1000 inch mark!

Over the summer our star client Patricia managed an overall loss of 20 plus inches, 10 minutes at a time. Congratulations to Pat as well as our many other clients who have happily lost inches and feel great!

Here’s how it works. Simply put, our vibration machines imitate walking, but in a concentrated, timed motion that works all muscles simultaneously. Every SECOND your muscles receive anywhere from 10 to 30 movements (pulses). Of course you do not identify each movement but your muscles do! In fact, they happily react in kind to each movement amplifying the affect.

Come in today and try a complimentary 10 minute session.

Your body will thank you.

T Zone Fitness 314B Aguacate Emilio Zapata 222 3931

LOCAL 09

Friday Jan 17 - 23, 2014

www.vallartatribune.com

PV Sea Dive

Celebrate Diversity This Saturday at the OTFM-TC

By Sue Keevil pvseadive.com

By Erin Staley oldtownfm.com

What a difference a week makes

E

very Saturday, the OTFM-TC treats visitors to an extraordinary spread of “make it, bake it, grow it” goodies.

Sure, you’ll find traditional market items – a rainbow of farm-fresh produce, tantalizing artisan foods, unique arts & crafts, on-site services and nonprofit organizations – but this Market reflects the charm of its international location and community.

Over 100,000 international shoppers visit the market every season to scoop up unique products such as traditional Mexican musical instruments, custom-made clothing and accessories as well as Huichol art.

Then, of course, there’s the live music from national and international musicians. Endless visitors flock to the food area to “eat to the beat.” From traditional Mexican, Thai and Indian cuisine to lip-smacking ribs, raspados (shaved ice), aguas frescas (“fresh waters”) and chocolate dipped bananas, we’ve got it fresh for you every Saturday.

But that’s not all. The Old Town Farmers Market-Tianguis Cultural reflects the diverse charm of its international home. When Charlotte Semple, market founder, first arrived in Puerto Vallarta in 2009, she immediately noticed this beachside destination was ready for a producer-only market.

A veteran of Canadian farmers markets and social entrepreneurship, Semple set out to give local vendors an opportunity to develop their businesses and shoppers a chance to buy unique products.

“From day one, we were meticulous about making sure there was a good representation of national entrepreneurs,” says Semple, PV’s 2012 Asociacion de Vecinos Y Empresarios Community Service Award recipient.

“Today, 71 percent of our vendors are Mexicans while 29 percent come from other countries. We believe this diversity makes for a warm welcome for international shoppers who stop by each

A

Saturday.”

But the diversity doesn’t end there. Vendors range from 11 to 70 years old. In fact, this season our young entrepreneur, Mireya Amaral Uribe is selling her original Poder de Niña dresses for girls and American Girl dolls.

Come on down this Saturday to see for yourself why the OTFM-TC has become a model for diversity, entrepreneurship and community in Puerto Vallarta.

You’ll be impressed by the one-ofa-kind treasures and experiences you’ll find right here in the heart of the city. Impassioned by

responsible food production, entrepreneurial development and the “buy local” movement, our OTFM-TC is a North American style market celebrating the tradition of Mexico’s tianguis markets.

Stop by for home décor, fashions, accessories, farm-fresh produce, international cuisine and readyto-eat foods.

Located in Lazaro Cárdenas Park, the OTFM-TC is open every Saturday from 9:30 am to 2 pm from the first Saturday in November to the last Saturday in May. Visit us on www.oldtownfm. com or Facebook.

s per usual, the water temperature dropped over the New Year to 76° and started to turn green, but then a miracle happened last week and the water warmed up to 84° and turned clear and blue. Along the shore line it was aquamarine green and resembled the Caribbean. Last Friday, as we pulled the boat up to Majahuitas, my jaw hit the floor when I realized I could see the bottom of the ocean that was forty foot beneath me. I could barely wait to jump in.

Once underwater, I could see further than 100 feet which was a real treat for this time of the year.

I had the good fortune of having three experienced divers with me, whilst my instructor Marc had a couple doing their first dive for their open water certification. I therefore got to enjoy this phenomenon for a whole hour. Marc´s divers lasted 30 minutes before getting back on the boat. They did, however, get to watch me diving sixty foot down and that must have been so very exciting for them! I found this super clear water rather distracting. When you can´t see very far, your eyes get focused in on the small critters living on the rock. This clear water made me stare into the distance at the huge schools of fish and great rock formations, making it difficult to concentrate on showing guests the weird and wonderful side of the reef.

These lovely conditions lasted

until Sunday, and then on Monday morning, ¨winter¨ returned. The water temperature plummeted to 74° and the water is green again.

This is not such a bad thing at all, but I just love being warm all of the time. I left England six years ago for this very reason. A ¨cold¨ morning now means I need to put on a sweat shirt, not remove any ice from my windshield!

So for the next few months, we will get to see the real gems of this bay without any distractions. My eyes have got used to focusing on small critters like the shrimps and sea slugs (nudibranchs) that we have in abundance in the bay. I am not sure if the nudibranchs are more prevalent during the winter months, or if there are too many other distractions around for us to notice them. Either way, they are adorable. The upshot to the lengthy summer water conditions was the distinct lack of whales on the south coast over the past month as humpbacks like the cold water. We are usually dodging whales during December and January, but this year, we have been struggling to find them. In between dives, we need to spend an hour on the surface, and what better way to spend it than by whale watching. Apart from one in 3 days, we have been wave watching instead which is not quite as entertaining. But they are back in abundance again now, but I for one would swap warm clear waters for whales in a heartbeat.

VALLARTA TRIBUNE 829 Feb 25 - March 3, 2013

The Natural Beauty of OUR Mountain

Plants

2000

Mammals

80

Birds

300

Amphibians and Reptiles

23

Butterflies

85

500

50% of these species are endemic to MĂŠxico.

We propose the area to be designated a

Natural Preserve Because for Vallarta,

Without the Mountain...

There is no future

LOCAL 11

Friday Jan 17 - 23, 2014

My Life In Vallarta

By Lois Ellison loell87@yahoo.com

LEARNING TO SHOP Part 1

M

any people are very spoiled when it comes to shopping for groceries.

One stop shopping is a necessity in their hectic lives. They breeze up and down the aisles, filling their carts, wait in line to check out, and then load it all in the car for the drive home.

Well, if you are lucky enough to live where we do, you need to learn a whole new way to shop. You may know my neighborhood as the Southside or the Zona Romantica, but I prefer to call it by its real name: Emiliano Zapata. Such an important name, steeped in history. Plus I like the way it rolls off my tongue. No matter what you call it, the fact remains; there is no supermarket in our neighborhood anymore.

Don’t get me wrong. This is not a handicap. It is in fact an opportunity.

Come with me on a walk around the neighborhood and you’ll see what I mean.

In the mood for fish? Let’s start on Constitucion up near the now defunct Rizo supermarket. At my favorite fishmonger you’ll see an array of fresh fish on a bed of ice. You know this place is good when you see local chefs coming by to get their supply for dinner. Lifting up the plastic sheeting to reveal the fish, the friendly owner tells you about each one, offering an English name for some so you feel more confident in your selection. Just tell him how many people you’re serving and he selects the best size and then proceeds to prepare it to your specifications. He proudly shows you each side so there won’t be any surprises when you go to cook it. After trimming off the waste, he places it on the scale. You won’t be paying for anything other than the part you can eat. If you’re looking for shrimp, he has four or five coolers full of amazing shrimp in various sizes. Worried about getting it home before it spoils? Just ask for un poco de hielo and your fish is safely surrounded with some ice.

Another day we’re ready to get some meat. There are a number of meat shops at the big Emiliano Zapata market (main entrance on Lazaro Cardenas), but my usual stop is at Carneceria Colin on V. Carranza. Probably because our son’s name is Colin. As you enter, a team of four or five butchers awaits you, poised over a case with the freshest meats and poultry you can imagine. Dreaming of hambur-

gers? No pink slime in this ground beef!

If you are craving pork chops, the butcher doesn’t cut them from the end of the loin.

No, once you tell him how many and how thick, he cuts them from the center, saving the end cut for another customer who wants it for pozole. Need chicken? No problem. Whole, in parts, with or without bones or skin; everything cut to order and weighed without the waste. As for the beef, well, I’ll admit the cuts look unfamiliar; but after a brief dialogue and a lot of gestures, the butcher presents you with a perfect cut.

Next it’s off to find some produce. Fruit and vegetable markets are everywhere and you can find just about anything, including heads of cauliflower as big as volleyballs. Granted not everything is shiny and perfect like you see at home.

But WOW, do they pack a flavor punch. I’d almost forgotten how a real carrot tastes.

It goes without saying that the produce is loose in the bins, not prepackaged on Styrofoam trays with the bad parts out of sight. You can linger as long as you want, examining each bean, lime, tomato or zucchini, searching for perfection.

Maybe you just need a small amount of parsley or cilantro but all you see is a giant bunch near the cashier. No problem, she reaches into the clump and hands over a small batch, whatever you want, even if it is only a few stalks. When it comes time to pay, imagine your surprise when your two overflowing shopping bags cost a mere 70 pesos (less than $6) We have more shopping to do but that will have to wait until next week in Part 2 of this adventure. Until then, happy exploring and buen provecho.

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Visit these excellent locations and more at Plaza Caracol

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.

W

ith businesses to serve all your needs including a major grocery store, media and design, gym, dental care, healthcare, beauty, fashion, first run English and Spanish movies, arcades for the young at heart, and international and Mexican cuisine, plus the services you need like cable, internet and telephone. It is truly a one-stop shopping centre.

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.

Optical Alvarez: is the top vision care provider serving Puerto Vallarta since 1990. We give your eyes the best care possible using advanced equipment. Same day on-site service for most eyeglass and contact lenses.

Dr. Carlos Diaz-Medical Spa is a health and beauty medical center that offers: anti-aging treatments, Botox, facial fillers, Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP), micro-peels, facial rejuvenation, mesotherapy, massage, laser hair removal, vein removal, diminished sun and age spots and homeopathic medical services.

REAL ESTATE 13

Friday Jan 17 - 23, 2014

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Finding a Pet-Friendly Condo or Apartment in Puerto Vallarta

By Miguel Fernández Miguel@g3mex.com

A

new challenge in the rental and sales market here in Puerto Vallarta, is finding a spot that will allow pets. Dogs, in particular, can be a major issue, but our other furry and feathered friends are also no longer welcome in many of developments in the Bay of Banderas.

Sadly, negligent pet owners are often the reason. Who can blame owners and neighbors who’ve tolerated constantly barking dog, wandering cats and the other messes (that I won’t mention) left by unattended mascots. That being said, Vallarta is an animal lover’s paradise. I’m not sure, but at last count I think we have a least 8 rescue and adoption organizations around town. We ADORE our animals! And you will find a lot of like-minded animal lovers willing to assist you in finding a nice home, for you and your furry companion.

If you’re new in town, get to know some of the local shelters and rescue organizations.

Mex Pup and the SPCA are two that have helped place a lot of animals, and they may have the inside track on buildings that are more pet friendly.

Steer clear of anyplace with a “no pets” policy. They’ve instituted this for a reason, and will not make concessions, no matter how adorable Fifi is.

Many complexes are willing to take an animal that is smaller. Or, they may have criteria in place with guidelines regarding animal ownership. Which means that the other tenants are animal lovers, and understand how important

your mascot is to you. Normally they will guide you regarding their rules and regulations for responsible pet ownership.

Also, it doesn’t hurt to get some proof that your animal is up to snuff. Ask to get couple of letters from previous landlords or neighbors attesting to how well behaved both you and your animal are.

Ask your veterinarian to write a letter regarding the type of care that you’ve taken with you pet. Is he/she sterilized? Spayed and neutered animals are usually less rambunctious. Are you keeping up with shots and regular veterinarian visits? Go to the HOA (Home Owner’s Association) and talk to them about you and your pet.

Maybe even bring him or her in for a visit during an HOA meeting, so people can see how well you’ve trained your animal. This way they can interact with him. I hate to be biased, but often times pet owners are extremely nice people, and in the long run can make great neighbors and tenants.

Offer to pay a special pet deposit (this may, or may not be refundable), in the event of any potential damages.

Be sure to get everything in writing, just in case there is a future dispute. This goes with EVERYTHING, by the way. If it’s in your signed contract, you have definitive proof!

Under no circumstance should you try to sneak an animal into the condo or rental. People always find out, and you could have some major problems in the future.

Homeaway, the online vacation rental site, has a good filter on

their search function, which will allow you to see if a property is pet friendly.

Also, other sites, such as Craigslist and TripAdvisor can be helpful.

Last, but not least, be sure to talk to your real estate agent.

G3MEX has placed numerous pet owners in homes here in Vallarta.

We can help guide you through the rules and regulations, and

find out the real scoop (no pun intended!)

If you have real estate questions, contact me anytime at G3MEX Real Estate Group: 322-209-0832. Saludos!

Sites Marina

El Tigre Villa For Sale Located on the 10th Tee

The Best Price $/m2 in El Tigre Fully Furnished 4 Beds 4.5 Baths This stunning home includes maids quarters, stunning kitchen and majestic living room that looks on to a glorious pool and outdoor entertainment area. Enjoy magnificent golf course and heavenly views from this divine residence. If you are looking for a Million dollar home, but not the price, this is your only option.

www.remaxinpv.com

art & culture 14

www.vallartatribune.com

Friday Jan 17 - 23, 2014

Introducing Realist Painter Bill White

by Marianne Menditto

www.ColibriDesignVallarta.com

P

opular realist painter Bill White, a native of Washington State, was born in 1947, mostly self-taught, with a few classes at the University of Washington. After being disillusioned with that, he spent 25 years as a self-employed graphic designer & sign painter honing his brush-work skills.

Then in 1998, several portrait classes and workshops at the Seattle Academy of Fine Arts confirmed to him that he “kinda knew how to do it!”

Following a long held dream, Bill moved to Puerto Vallarta in 2005. He found plenty of material to inspire him in the vibrant colors & action of the life that is Mexico. He found success right away as a commissioned portrait painter. A particular honor was being commissioned to paint 11 of the Bishops and Priests for the Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish for display in their museum. His

first gallery was Gary Thompson’s “Galeria Pacifico”, he transitioned over to John Strawn & Karen Jenanyan’s “The Loft Galeria”. This updated interview (originally published June 2013) shows some of his work currently available at The Loft Galeria in colonia Centro, Puerto Vallarta.

Marianne: What attracted you to live & work in Puerto Vallarta?

Bill: The people...their kindness & acceptance, their generosity.

I was here many years ago and ended up staying with a local family. That was so eye opening.

Vallarta is very different now, I mean it’s a big city now...but the people are still the same to me. I think I’d be very lonely if I returned to the United States. I wouldn’t have anyone to talk to.

This is a great little neighborhood.

There was a couple who used to run the little corner store about 3 blocks away, if I was ever feeling down when I went in there, they

would have me right back up!

Then there’s my VW guy just down the hill there. His daughter works there in the shop with him.

She’s a brilliant girl and she’s just there helping her dad...so when my car breaks down I get to go visit with her and it’s such a pleasure.

Marianne: I know you speak a little Spanish...do you get much practice?

Bill: A little. But there are so many locals who want to practice their English, that I end up speaking Spanglish.

Marianne: What inspires you at this time, what really gets your juices going?

Bill: Good painting!!! Good representational art, color and color combinations. People that can make the human form look so real, but not exactly painted photographically.

Marianne: What painting medium do you favor & why?

Bill: Oils...because I LOVE IT! it’s very versatile. Oils have a great depth of color & I can control the surface whether it’s flat or glossy....it’s easier to blend, which is important in Realism.

Marianne: How about contact with other artists?

Bill: No, I don’t have a lot of contact other artists here, especially during the summer months...but, I enjoy their company and I’m always looking for artists that can give me a little bit of an education, especially spending quality time with Davis Birks, BrewsterBrockman or Meg Munro. Even though our painting styles are very different, we still have lots in common. We discuss things about the importance of what we

do & how to do it. I really have a lot of respect for their words.

Marianne: What are your favorite subjects?

Bill: It looks like the female form is what I paint the most. But having experienced the “Lienzo Charro” and “Las Escaramuzas”...the excitement, color, the movement of the horses & the riders. Over the years the wonderful folkloric dancers of the Baile Xiutla group here in Vallarta have been the major part of my subject matter.

Marianne: Are you telling stories with your paintings?

Bill: I try to, yes. I just like to see the beauty of the emotion of what’s going on and sometimes I’m able to capture things with a camera in the moment that hopefully I can portray in my paintings.

Marianne: So, you work from photos a lot?

Bill: Most of the time...yes, that’s the reality of it. It’s a little expensive to paint from life.

Over the years I’ve taken thousands of photos. I go through them & pick the best ones and I crop ‘em & I change ‘em and I put other figures in ‘em & look at the compositions. I play with a lot of stuff on Photoshop before I ever decide to paint.

Marianne: Tell us about your painting process, do you sketch studies?

Bill: Ahhh...I hardly ever sketch anymore, I get right to the painting process and I really miss that part. When I was younger... drawing was a part of my exploration...working with a pencil. I just don’t do it enough anymore, if ever, because I’m always trying to work for a show...get those paintings out.

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Marianne: So, do you work on multiple paintings at one time?

Bill: I do...I find that very interesting, Then I can stick them out in my living-room on an easle and stare at ’em and get a better perspective while I’m waiting for them to dry and I can be working on something else. It’s very important.

Marianne: Do you work in series?

Bill: Not really...I just look at what I think would be a good painting or fun to do.......

Marianne: Do you take advantage of the phenomenon of happy accidents?

Bill: I’m noticing those more and more ‘cuz I’m less & less in control.

Marianne: So...you’re loosening up your approach and evolving?

Bill: Yeah...it’s funny. I’m trying to find brushes that will allow me to paint more freely...oh and still get the job done in a quick manner as well. I also try to learn from other painters that I see on the internet...from instructional videos...to see if I can apply any of it. I learn a lot from the actual time of painting and practicing and making mistakes.

Marianne: How do you like the gallery you’re showing in now, The Loft?

Bill: Oh I LOVE them...seriously, I love them, they’re awesome.

They’re very productive and professional and very responsible on a lot of levels. I’ve tried this last couple of years to not put anything into a show that isn’t really the best work.

Even though the gallery may be pressuring to get it done, I must get it to the point that I’m happy

art & culture 15

Friday Jan 17 - 23, 2014

with it. And they’re very patient with me.

Marianne: Will you have a new show opening this season?

Bill: Not really...I’m sort of already there...I have a room dedicated to me now at The Loft. The pictures I’m sending you are of my currently available work and my new work from this last summer.

(2013) Marianne: Tell us about your new paintings, any new directions?

Bill: Yes, several of my favorite nude figurative paintings upstairs at The Loft. Most artists agree that the human figure is difficult to represent successfully and I take great pride in my latest series. I work at length with a model to get just the right image...one that portrays an emotion or expresses an elegance of composition and form. As a painter of portraits and the figure, I’m always looking for some interesting locations to place the figure.

For example, “My Day at Olinala Mask Shop” is a painting created with my model Carolina in a very interesting shop space filled with antique Mexican masks with colorful walls and unique architecture. I’m currently searching for spaces un-like my studio... spaces that have a colorful or truly Mexican interior. I find that it’s a better way to portray the people of Puerto Vallarta, by putting them into an environment that maybe tells a story or asks questions. Meanwhile, back at the easle, I’m currently painting another one for my very popular “Las Escaramuzas” series, a young girl on her horse in the Plaza de Armas.

Marianne: Do you have a philosophy of what is “Art”... or something that you can quantify?

Bill: I think there’s a lot of people that can be artists...it’s visual communication. For myself all I want to do is what I consider to be good art & that’s something only I know what is...and if I do that...that’s what’s gonna bring me peace. So, what art is in a broad sense, that’s all philosophy

& if it’s of value to people at an emotional or spiritual level...that’s what gives us all a good reason to do it.

Marianne: And to that end, you pass along your considerable knowledge by teaching.

Tell us about your workshops.

Bill: I teach one or two classical portrait workshops in my studio

each year to a minimum class of 5 students.

Private classes are also available.

I can be reached at my website or email or specific details: www. billwhitefineart.com or bwhitefineart@yahoo.com Stop by The Loft Galeria at Corona #176-A col. Centro, Puerto Vallarta. or visit their website: www.theloftgaleria.com

Galeria Vallarta

TOMATELO

A PECHO

it’s important that you know

TOMATELO

A PECHO

it’s important that you know

TOMATELO

A PECHO

it’s important that you know

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RIVIERA NAYARIT 18

Friday Jan 17 - 23, 2014

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Fun on the Amazing Alta Vista Petroglyphs Riviera Nayarit

By Cat Morgan www.rivieranayaritfun.com

O

ne of my favorite places to visit for a fun jungle hike is the Alta Vista Petroglyphs. I like to go several times during the year. The hike is along a river, and usually during the winter months it does not have a lot of water running.

However, due to the recent crazy rainy weather, the jungles are green, and the pools at the end of the trail have plenty of water. I love the beach every day! But it’s nice to get out into the green jungle with the gigantic palms. It makes me feel like I am walking through prehistoric times!

This intriguing archaeological site is located northeast of Jaltemba Bay. Identified locally as “La Pila del Rey,” the site is one of the largest known concentrations of stone engravings, containing over 2,000 on

200 acres. Although less than half of them can be seen through the jungle brush, there are plenty visible that make the site worth visiting.

These fascinating engraved stones were carved over two thousand years ago by the Tecoxquines, an Aztec tribe that went into extinction after the 16th century from disease brought by the Spanish invaders.

The petroglyphs are believed to hold religious significance to the Tecoxquin, since images appear to reflect communication with the gods.

Today, the site is still sacred to the Huichol Indians who use it for their ceremonies. They have a fire circle at the end of the trail by the pools, which is surrounded by crosses engraved in the rocks.

The state of Nayarit derives its name from Nahualu. Several of the rocks with carvings are large enough for sacrifices, and the native Indians were big on religious ceremony.

Many of these religious activities held here were based on Nahualism. Nahualism, or Shamanism, is an ancient religious practice, where participants communicate with their gods and spirits through altered states of consciousness.

This tradition has deep roots in the region.

Alta Vista is hidden in the mountains of the Riviera Nayarit along Las Piletas Creek of El Copo volcano, with the valley below filled with groves of papaya, guanabana, bananas and mangos. During the

summer time the trees are filled with fruit.

It’s about a two hour drive from Puerto Vallarta, and about a 45 minute walk or so from where you park to get to the trail head. Most of it is a torn up road that my jeep can’t even get down.

Once at the trail head, we pay 20 pesos to cross private land can then enter the trail head. There is some uphill on the way back.

If you would like more information please drop me a line at Cat@RivieraNayaritFun.com Have a wonderful week everyone!

Cat Morgan owner of RivieraNayaritFun. com Regional Network is open to receive comments and other Riviera Nayarit News at Cat@RivieraNayaritFun.com

RIVIERA NAYARIT 19

Friday Jan 17 - 23, 2014

Futbol Season Kicks Off on New Field

By Riley Hunter

F

utbol in Mexico is a big sport and Sayulita is no exception to the soccer craze with the Sayulita Club de Futbol.

In November 2013 the Sayulita women’s soccer team brought

home the championship tournament competing against 10 other teams from Puerto Vallarta and up the coast to San Pancho, beating out one of their biggest rivalries among their competitor teams, Punta De Mita. The Club de Futbol and the Sayulita women’s team started just over a year ago with only 8 members on the team, today the team consists of 30 women between the ages of 15 and 46, locals and four foreigners, all hardworking and dedicated women who love “futbol”.

The new soccer field is property of Cruz Rodriguez. Cheri and Cruz have been working over the past 6 months to prepare the field

for soccer practice and games and it is now ready, complete with new goal posts. The women’s team practices every Tuesday and Thursday and games are held on Saturdays. Over the next three months, the All Star Tournament will continue and Sayulita will be playing home field every other weekend.

Martin Flores Jimenez has coached the women’s soccer team leading them to the championship finals in 2013 and Charlene Cordner now coaches the girls’ soccer team consisting of 30 kids between the ages of 10 and 14. There is also an all-boys team of 28 kids between 10 and 14.

The Riviera Nayarit is One of “The 5 Coolest Places to Go in 2014”

T

he online newspaper and blog, www.huffingtonpost. com, kicked off the New Year with its list of “The 5 Coolest Places to go in 2014” where the Riviera Nayarit was prominently featured.

This series of recommendations was posted to give trendsetting world travelers a heads up on alternative destinations, attractions, accommodations and events when planning their cutting edge vacations.

It highlights the Riviera Nayarit, which is once again recouping its status as a top tourism destination.

According to the article, “That’s

why the Riviera Nayarit is one of our travel picks for 2014: it has tranquil beaches and small, charming beach towns with authentic flavor. But it also has a large expat community and shares an airport with Puerto Vallarta to the south.”

The portal also singles out the Haramara Retreat in Sayulita, a yoga getaway located seaside on acres of wild vegetation just outside of town.

They stress the fact it has no electricity and is as close to nature as you can possibly get while still maintaining the luxurious standards it needs to attract those in search of pure relaxation.

Box Office open 10am to 6pm Monday thru Friday and one hour before shows

“The structures have been built using traditional construction techniques to minimize the environmental impact,” states the text.

“Each room is housed in a private standalone thatched hut with no window panes or screens separating it from the jungle, and only gauze curtains and mosquito nets to avoid bugs and critters.”

The complete list includes Nicaragua, Rio de Janeiro in Brazil; Paris, France; the island of Vieques in Puerto Rico and, of course, the Riviera Nayarit.

www.vallartatribune.com

CVIS: Giving Back to the Community

By Kathleen Nicoletti

O

ne of the missions of Costa Verde International School (CVIS) is to be a valuable and contributing member of the community. As a result, the school is always looking for projects to which we can give our time, talents, and resources.

This school year we have been excited to participate in The Sayulita Mosaic Mural Project.

The project was conceived of and spearheaded by local artist Bonnie Metzger.

As Sayulita continues to change and grow, Bonnie felt that Sayulita’s traditions and elders—particularly those who were among the original families of Sayulita—needed to be honored and remembered. To do so, Bonnie created a project that includes a mosaic rendering of the way local elders and their descendants described Sayulita in a long series of interviews conducted this past summer. The elders’ descriptions are of how they remember Sayulita prior to the 1960’s when surfers started to come to the town, and Sayulita began to evolve into the tourist destination it is today. Prior to 1936, Sayulita had been part of a large hacienda that included Higera Blanca, San Ignacio, San Pancho and Los Lomas. Later, as a result of the Mexican Revolution,

the government distributed the land among Sayulita’s residents.

The mosaic, which is nearing completion, adorns the front walls of the Casa de la Cultura.

La Casa de la Cultura is located one block from the beach, in the center of Sayulita. CVIS has been the project’s sponsor, helping to purchase, solicit and store donations of tile and other needed materials, as well as providing volunteers to assist in a variety of tasks. It is our hope that when the wall is completed, it will give visitors a porthole into Sayulita’s past, but, more importantly, honor the local families for whom Sayulita has been home for many, many years. *A film, “Paraiso Antes y Ahora”, sponsored by CVIS and produced

by Bonnie Metzger, is based on the interviews. The film takes a look at the question, “Is paradise then or now?” The film is currently under production and due out in early 2014. Plans are to debut it in Sayulita’s plaza.

LOCAL 20

Friday Jan 17 - 23, 2014

Provecho Vallarta: A Deck of a Deal!

B

ack in 2012, Provecho Vallarta was developed as a fun and creative vehicle to support the ingenuity of local entrepreneurs. Provecho Vallarta is a deck of cards – like playing cards. Back for a third year with new additions, this little package packs a punch – a way to LIVE MORE, SPEND LESS. Deliciously compact, Provecho Vallarta’s deck features 52+ cards.

Each card contains a description of a local restaurant or business and doubles as a 100 peso gift certificate to the business it describes. Retailing at 300 pesos, this 5200+ peso value is an innovative way to introduce customers to new spots and encourage them to revisit old favorites.

Driven by a love of quality food, friends and good times, Provecho Vallarta’s focus is to increase the visibility and continued viability of quality businesses. With this as the goal, they combed the region looking for first-rate spots.

A stacked deck with no “fillers”.

They didn’t stop there. Deciding that they would donate a percentage of sales to area charities was easy. This year, Michelle MayerFulfer and partner Ana UribeJack chose a wonderful charity to donate a percentage of profits - Pasitos de Luz, an organization providing free care to disabled children with limited means.

Additionally, the deck is used for fundraising. This season alone, Pasitos de Luz’s team of impassioned volunteers have garnered over $11,000 pesos for their extraordinary children. Contact Ginger at gingercarp@hotmail. com to buy a deck with 1/3 of the proceeds going to Pasitos de Luz. Provecho Vallarta decks are also being sold at the IFC and at Becas Breakfasts for their respective charities.

The 2014 deck is valid now through December 31, 2014.

The discount is 100 pesos off a minimum purchase of 300

www.vallartatribune.com

Banderas Bay Butterfies

by Moralea Milne

Giant Sicklewing (Achlyodes busirus)

pesos (excluding other promotions, prix fixe menus and during Restaurant Week) Provecho Vallarta’s 2014 decks are available now and can be purchased at various locations around town. (check website for more details) www.provechovallarta.com

G

iant Sicklewings are members of the Skipper family of butterflies (Hesperiidae). Skippers differ from other butterflies in that their antennae are generally hooked backwards, described as looking like a crochet hook. They are usually smaller (1-1.5 in) with stout bodies, often with brown or copper colouration.

They often have a jerky, quick, flight pattern. Of course, there are many who break the rules and some are imbued with rich colours and are medium sized. There are a number of skippers that are impossible to identify in the field and you will have to satisfy yourself with knowing they are one of several species, unless of course you are into dissecting their gentilia…

I would rather acknowledge a little mystery than get hung up on exact identification and resorting to genital sacrifice!

Giant Sicklewings, also known as Variegated Batwings, are widespread and common, although more so in the rainy season. They can be found along both coasts of Mexico and down into the Amazon; they do well in disturbed habitats such as clearings, and farms. They have a wingspan of about 6 cm (2.5 in) and usually can be found with their wings spread open. It’s not often you get a look at the underwings, but there is a beautiful gold patch on the inside corners of the hindwings.

There is a subtle beauty to these butterflies that I find enchanting. The caterpillars are very distinctive, with red bodies banded with yellow horizontal stripes, alternating with thinner white stripes and a half red and half black head.

Apparently the caterpillars will eat plants from a number of families, among them citrus and nettles.

Flower of the Week

by Sandra Cesca

Ruellia Ruelia (Spanish) Ruellia tuberosa

M

exican Petunia, Fever Root.

Ruellias are popular ornamental small shrubs often growing wild in warm climates. They have striking funnel-shaped violet flowers and thick tuberous roots that are easily used for propagation. Some are considered poisonous although folk and Ayurvedic medicine recognize their medicinal qualities including use as a diuretic, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, anti-hypertensive and a protection for the stomach. It is used also as a natural textile dye. Leaves are food for caterpillars; flowers attract butterflies. This plant is one of over 200 found in Sandra’s new color-

coded guidebook, Tropical Plant Walks of Puerto Vallarta. Available now at the Vallarta Botanical Gardens’ gift shop www.vbgardens.org, Page in the Sun Bookstore and from Sandra at the Paradise Community Center Farmer’s Market on Saturdays. Information on her many walking tours can be found at: escaperoutevallarta.com.

travel 21

Friday Jan 17 - 23, 2014

www.vallartatribune.com

Mascota – A Step Back In Time

By Madeline Milne

Originally published July 2013

T

he town of Mascota is a short two hour drive from Puerto Vallarta, 103 kms into the mountains behind the Bay of Banderas, where it’s a little cooler and there is almost no humidity.

Located in the state of Jalisco, the town has a population of about 14,000 and is primarily based on agriculture. Settled by the Spanish around 1530, the town has a long history that predates the Spanish by at least 2,000 years.

Driving north towards Bucerias, you take the Ixtapa exit just past Home Depot, and drive straight. You literally can’t get lost if you stay on that road. The scenery is stunning, with rolling hills, lush farmland, and thick jungle. As you climb up the mountain, the jungle disappears and the pine and oak forests start to emerge.

Just before the town of San Sebastian del Oeste there is a very impressive bridge that spans a drop that is over 1000 meters.

Stop and walk to the middle of the bridge just to see how far a kilometer looks from above. Once you get back on the road you are about 30 - 45 minutes outside of Mascota.

We stayed at Rancho Esmeralda which is at the entrance to the town, situated in a beautiful setting, with a number of charming cabins, an outdoor pool and amenities set among fields and surrounded by the embracing mountains. Rancho Esmeralda is set up for self-sufficiency and you should at the least bring snacks to tide you over in the morning and evening. It is a great place for families, reunions, or even romantic vacations. Each cabin is set far enough apart for privacy and all come with lovely verandas where you can watch the birds in the morning.

There are a handful of other charming hotels further along towards the centre of town. All seem to be built in the delightful hacienda style, with inner courtyards. They range from $400 to $1000 pesos a night and may or may not include breakfast.

We decided to hit the road early to visit the towns of Yerbabuena and Navidad. Heading out of town towards Guadalajara, as you reach the Pemex, you can stay right and head to GDL or you can lean left and head towards a number of smaller towns. They are a total of 10 kms from Mascota along a tight one-lane road that

in rainy season should encourage you to exercise caution.

Yerbabuena is as cute as they come. About two kilometers from Mascota, the town is clearly enjoyed by the affluent weekenders from Guadalajara and the grand homes are all set with clay tile roofs and stone foundations.

The tiny plaza has a lovely rose garden and the church is postcard perfect. Apparently there is a very good restaurant along the river but it was early and we had our coffees in hand. Next time.

From Yerbabuena, we carried on to Navidad. This village was settled years ago by French immigrants escaping religious persecution and today the population is tall and slender with fair hair and light green or blue eyes. The town itself is extremely small (pop. 230) and appealing with some interesting mural work at the entrance to the town. We headed back to Mascota, taking in some spectacular vistas of volcanos, valleys, and farmland. Once in town we stopped at the Museo Estatal de Arqueología . It is co-sponsored by National Geographic and is very well done. As is to be expected in a Spanish speaking country, the displays are entirely in Spanish. I thought we were out of luck but we were thankfully found by the only English speaking guide, who was pleased to share his knowledge and practice English with us.

The most prestigious item in their collection is a cut quartz that was exhumed from a burial site found by a local farmer. The quartz is fascinating because it is likely the earliest known cut stone in Latin America and believed to be 5,000- 8,000 years old. The hole that has been drilled through the stone suggests it comes from another culture as the technique is not known in this region – or really anywhere at this point in history.

The placement of the stone signifies its value among the peoples of the valley who lived here approximately 2,500 year ago.

Having asked around about things we should definitely check out, the Casa de las piedras kept coming up. Just around the corner from the Museum of Archeology, we had the extreme pleasure of visiting with the artist, curator and local resident Senor Francisco Pena. For the past 25 years, he has made it his life’s work to cover his home in stones that he collects from the river. He sorts them based on size and colour and then applies them to everything. Literally everything, including his bed,

the television, the fish tank, the telephone. He is a charming man who speaks wonderful English and will warmly invite you to enjoy his creations. A town treasure, Francisco also has an impressive collection of archival photographs of Mascota and he writes books on local history and genealogy.

Very likely this will be the best $10 pesos you have ever spent.

We then moved on to the Temple de la Preciosa Sangre which is an unfinished ruin of a church that was to be built in the late 1800’s for the local residents of the town, who had been pushed out of the central church by the newly arriving Spaniards.

The ruins felt otherworldly and ancient, with crumbling mortar, winding flowering vines, and the setting sun dappling the walls through the overgrown trees. It seemed as though the castles and churches of my imagined Narnia had come to life.

For a late lunch we headed to

Laguna de Juanacatlan home to the world’s largest Molcajete. After climbing into the giant Molcajete for some crazy photos, we sat down and enjoyed a delicious meal. Satisfied with our meal, we headed back to Rancho Esmeralda where the sun was setting on the valley and the golden hues added vibrancy to the landscape.

This valley was a culture-sustaining paradise for thousands of years before the Spanish arrived, and today continues to nourish the local communities.

A visit to Mascota and the

nearby towns is highly recommended for those of you who enjoy driving the back roads.

Spanish would be helpful but not necessary, as signs are well marked and a polite smile will get you a helping hand, if needed.

Bring a phrase book and prepare your maps prior to setting out as cell phone service can be spotty in the mountains. Mexico is so much more than the strip of sand around Banderas Bay; the ancient cultures rival anything you will find anywhere else in the world and are worthy of your exploration.

VALLARTA SHOPPING DIRECTORY The only complete guide for Vallarta´s best galleries, boutiques, spas, restaurants and more. vallartashoppingdirectory.blogspot.mx

Authentic Tile and Much More

W

e offer 23 years of “Premier” building experience reaching from California to Arizona, Sonora and now Puerto Vallarta, where our tile selection and creative flair set us

apart from the rest.

In the last decade, our extensive travels throughout Mexico in search of the most exquisite finishing materials has allowed us to build wonderful friendships with

the finest tile makers this country has to offer.

We are excited to bring to you the fruits of their labor in our unique collections at Colibri Design, a new division of Galeria

Colibri. Let us custom design your dream environment, or design it yourself with great expert advice to guide your selections.

Our services extend to offer Interior Designers the perfect venue to select beautiful tiles and create their own designs, with or without their clients, right here in

our own design center. Our home is your home. We promise diligent service and follow through.

We represent the most reliable handmade tile makers in Mexico in order to insure that the job stays on schedule. www.colibridesignvallarta.com

MEN AND WOMEN’S JEWELRY AND ACCESORIES. CASSANDRA SHAW JEWELRY 223 9734 BASILIO BADILLO 276 OLD TOWN OPEN DAILY Nacho Daddy Mexico is the place in Puerto Vallarta where American, Canadian and European ex-pats and tourists across the globe gather to drink, eat, dance, listen to great music,watch football and having a rip-roaring good time.

287 Basilio Badillo in old town 322 223 0838 www.nachodaddymexico.com

Farmer and Artisan Markets in the Bay (and beyond) For great fresh produce, baked goods, organics, crafts, jewelry, unique finds and much more, please support the local producers. There are also plenty of other tianguis around the bay that carry clothing, household supplies, tools and more.

Old Town Farmers Market The largest Farmers Market in Vallarta located at Lazaro Cardenas Park 9-2 every Saturday

Paradise Co-op Market Local artists, food and unique items On Calle Pulpito at the Paradise Community Centre Saturdays 9am-1pm year-round

Marina Vallarta 100+ stalls line on malecon Thursdays - 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm

Bucerias High quality crafts and food Lazaro Cardenas 90b.

Wednesdays 9am to 1pm La Cruz de Huancaxtle La Cruz Farmers & Artisans Market Excellent market with dozens of vendors Located along the marina Sunday from 10-2pm

Sayulita Local artisan, food, and household supplies Fridays from 10am-2pm La Peñita Everything you could want and more.

Year round along the main street Thursday from 9am -2pm

sports 23

Friday Jan 17 - 23, 2014

Random thoughts from the Tribune Sports desk

By Joel Hansen

F

irst things first. I would like to point out that I went four for four on last weekends Playoff picks. Don’t believe me?

Check last weeks Tribune for the proof. * There was a time a few years ago when I listened to Jim Rome religiously, never missing his show, however over the last few years I have grown more and more disappointed with his corporate makeover, he is now a shadow of the edgy hilarious host

who once provoked Jim Everett into punching him during a live interview by repeatedly calling him Chris. * Sometimes it doesn’t pay to improve in the NFL. The Cincinnati Bengals make the climb into the playoffs and respectability after years as a league laughingstock and teams immediately come and poach both their offensive and defensive co-coordinators. * Speaking of not improving, the Cleveland Browns have no worries about anyone from their organization being scooped up.

Everyone that has interviewed with them has said “Thanks, but no thanks” to the head-coaching job. Eight people have actually removed their names from consideration or said flat out said “No”.

In fact they just texted me

and asked if I was interested in coming out of retirement to coach, but I think I will pass too, I doubt I could find a decent birria taco in Ohio.

-The Puerto Vallarta Torpedoes youth football team has started training for the upcoming 2014 season. If you have a child between 5-15 looking to play American football come to Bobadilla Stadium Monday, Wednesday or Friday between 5-6:30, or you can contact me for

more information. * Did I mention that I went four for four last week with the spread? * Pretty hard to argue with Cristiano Ronaldo winning the FIFA Ballon d'Or for best player.

69 goals last year is very deserinvig. I did find it interesting that neither Messi (the runner-up) or Ronaldo had voted for each other.

(Note: I just received an email from my editor instructing me to be sure to use a photo of Ronaldo with his shirt off for this article, not sure what that is all about?) * The LA Lakers are…how should I say this? Crappy.

I am not for encouraging a team to tank a season but I do think they should stop winning and get rid of anyone good that could help them win to ensure the

best chance at a lottery pick. * My bold NFL picks? Seattle vs. Denver for the title in 3 weeks. * In a little more somber note my brother Cam was in a very serious motorcycle accident this past weekend and I would like to take a second to a send a very big thank you out to all of the emergency responders from the Cruz Rojo, the PV Bomberos , the nurse from the Navy hospital and everyone else who assisted at the scene of the accident and of course all of the Doctors and staff at Amerimed who have taken amazing care of him and got him back on the road to recovery so quickly, first class. * Finally you can find me down at Que Pasa this weekend watching the NFL playoffs, feel free to stop by and say…… oh wait another email from my editor requesting more shirtless Ronaldo photos.

www.vallartatribune.com

EVENTS 24

www.vallartatribune.com

Events and Live Entertainment FRIDAY JANUARY 17 7:00 pm - The Teahouse of the August Moon (BT) 7:30 pm - The Dame Edna Show (TP) 7:30 pm - Viva La Divas (RR) 8:00 pm - Steel Magnolias (MS) 8:00 pm - Banderas Bay Jazz Allstars (PC) 9:30 pm - An Evening at the Bird Cage (TP) 10:00 pm - Nightlife w/ Kim Kuzma (RR)

marciavallarta@gmail.com

T

SUNDAY JANUARY 19 4:00 pm - The Tea House of the August Moon (BT) 7:30 pm - Acustico w/ Kim Kuzma (RR) 7:30 pm - Piel Canela (TP) 8:00 pm - The Voice of Vallarta: Week 9 “Banda” (MS) 8:00 pm - Alberto Mejia in Concert (BT) 9:30 pm - Amy and Freddy (TP) MONDAY JANUARY 20 7:00 pm - Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (BT) 7:30 pm - Jorge and Beata (TP) 7:30 pm - Best of Broadway w/ Miss Conception (RR) 9:30 pm - An Evening at the Bird Cage (TP) 10:00 pm - Delusions w/ Miss Conception (RR) TUESDAY JANUARY 21 10:30 am - IFC Home Tour 7:00 pm - Remembering Patsy Cline Side A w/ Mikki Prost (BT) 7:30 pm - Amy & Freddy (TP) 7:30 pm - Denita Asberry (RR) 8:00 pm - The Metamorphosis Show (MS) 9:30 pm - An Evening at the Bird Cage (TP) 10:00 pm - Hollywood Legends w/ Chi Chi Rones (RR) WEDNESDAY JANUARY 22 10:30 am - IFC Home Tour 7:00 pm - Baby Boom Baby (BT) 7:30 pm - Denita Asberry (RR) 7:30 pm - BohemiaViva (TP) 8:00 pm - Steel Magnolias (MS) 8:00 pm - The Blonde Gypsies: Latcho & Andrea (PC) 9:30 pm - Amy & Freddy (TP) 10:00 pm - Dueling Drag Divas (RR)

BT=Boutique TP=Palm RR=Red Room MS=Main Stage PC=Paradise Tickets and info available 24/7 at www.VallartaTickets.com or by calling 222-4198.

Tommy Koenig returns to Puerto Vallarta with “Baby Boom Baby”.

T

he Tommy Koenig Show was invited to The Santa Barbara Theatre in Puerto Vallarta in 2009. It was here that the idea for ‘Baby Boom Baby’ began. Tommy said, “For years I’d wanted to do a show called ‘Baby Boom Baby’, telling my personal story and the story of my generation through the rock and roll music that related to other boomers like me.

Doing impressions and parodies of all the rock musicians through the different eras that I had been making fun of in my act together with some originally written songs and some things from my stand up comedy would make a great show.”

Tommy returned to Puerto Vallarta in 2010 for

Voices of Vallarta...

Tracks Six & Seven

by Marcia Blondin

SATURDAY JANUARY 18 7:00 pm - The Tea House of the August Moon (BT) 7:30 pm - Amy and Freddy (TP) 7:30 pm - Viva La Divas (RR) 8:00 pm - Steel Magnolias (MS) 8:00 pm - BEDAZZLED Broadway (PC) 10:00 pm - An Evening at the Bird Cage (TP) 10:00 pm - Dueling Drag Divas (RR)

THURSDAY JANUARY 23 10:00 am - IFC Botanical Gardens / Zoo Tour 7:00 pm - Baby Boom Baby (BT) 7:30 pm - Denita Asberry (RR) 7:30 pm - Amy & Freddy (RR) 8:00 pm - Steel Magnolias (MS) 9:30 pm - An Evening at the Bird Cage (TP) 10:00 pm - Delusions w/ Miss Conception (RR)

Friday Jan 17 - 23, 2014

a successful month-long debut run of ‘Baby Boom Baby’ which received wild acclaim at the now closed Santa Barbara Theatre.

Now he's back at the Boutique Performing Arts Centre for a 3 day run starting Wednesday Jan 22.

Tickets are available at the Boutique Box Office from 10am – 6pm Monday thru Friday or on Vallarta Tickets website. “ Tommy Koenig is a one-man Woodstock.” “Hits the heart as well as the funny bone.”

“If you remember the Sixties, you weren't there” became a generational slogan. Come and enjoy an evening tribute to all that we missed!! Performances January 22, 23 and 25th 7:00pm.

rack Six was Telenovela Week at Act II, songs from Mexican soap operas with one person doomed to go home at the end of the show. Alain (my unabashedly favorite judge) was quite adamant with the contestants to portray themselves as PERFORMERS on stage. Of course they are, but his point was for them to LOOK and FEEL and PROJECT the part immediately.

As an aside to this I have some scolding to do myself: The show starts at 8pm so audience - be on time! NEVER walk into a theatre any theatre - in the MIDDLE OF A PERFORMANCE, and stomp up the stairs looking for a seat.

WAIT. Stand by the door for as long as it takes for a break to come. Not only do you show disrespect to whoever is on stage but you are blocking somebody’s view and it simply isn’t nice! The waiters have a job to do and they are the only people that should be moving around while there is somebody performing on stage.

Got it?

A perfect set of TENS for one singer - the ONLY perfect score and guess what? He had to go.

People were shouting “Save him!”

“Save him!” and pounding their feet on the floor.

In the frenzy that followed the Emcee finally got the masses quieted down long enough to inform everyone that the judges had just ONE save for the entire contest.

The four judges conferred (quickly) and it had to be unanimous and absolutely final. A huge make or break situation, you could have cut the atmosphere with a knife. There is still a long way to

go in this contest and personal favorites of the audience might find themselves in the same situation and there will be NO chance of a reprieve. So we waited for the verdict........

No one went home.

Week Seven featured Broadway Show tunes and opened with Rocky Horror.

OMG! The clamor! The glamor!

It was WONDERFUL to see Alain (almost ALL of Alain) and Daniel (oh baby...) reprise their performances held at the Palm a year ago. A spectacular, sexy opening that had the crowd screaming for more but our two judges did need to change clothes. Make that, put some clothes on, for the show!

Most of the contestants dressed accordingly which was duly noted and added panache to the stage.

Songs from Cabaret, Chicago, Mama Mia, Evita (twice...whoops), Cats, Phantom and more played to a packed house.

Even with chairs added, people were turned away at the box office.

At the end of the night votes were counted and one contestant sang her way off stage for the last time.

And now, there are 12; exactly half way through. Next Sunday it’s BANDA and NORTENA. Vote on Facebook! If you have a favorite don’t wait! Vote, vote, vote!!! See you at Act II, 8 o´clock.

SHARP!

NATURE 25

Friday Jan 17 - 23, 2014

The diversity of Mexico

By Tom Swanson colibridesignvallarta.com

I

t’s hard to describe just how mountainous México is. How mountainous is it, you ask?

Well, if México were flattened out, it would cover more of the Earth’s surface than all of Asia.

What that gives to México is, that in between each of those mountain ranges, occurs a vast diversity...climate, landscape, flora and fauna and even people can change dramatically in a hundred kilometers. These changes make each separate place unique.

Though México takes up only

1% of the planet’s surface, it boasts being home to around12% of the world’s different land-based species of plants and animals, over 200,000 species in all. This makes México one of the top five countries in the world for biodiversity.

It has more different types of reptiles than any other country, counting 717 known species, 574 of which are found nowhere else on Earth. México is the second most diverse country in the world for mammals, being home to 502 known species.

We take fourth place for our diversity of birds, 290 different species with 1,150 varieties, fourth for amphibians, 290 known species and fourth again in flora, with over 26,000 different types of plants.

Conservation of these assets is growing in importance. The federal government in particular is leading the way. México is dotted with biosphere reserves, national parks and monuments, natural resource protected areas, flora

and fauna protected areas and biodiversity sanctuaries.

Some of the species that are now being protected and are considered endangered include the Golden Eagle, the Jaguar, and the Monarch Butterfly, which winters in Michoacán before making the 4,500 km trip to Canada every year.

Another endangered part of México is its indigenous cultures.

Due, again, to the incredibly difficult terrain in this country, many small communities of the pre-Columbian inhabitants have survived until today.

Often this was simply because these people were too difficult to contact, to exploit or enslave by the conquerors, though the Catholic faith was forced upon all of them. But even Catholicism has had to adapt to include, to varying degrees, customs and beliefs that the Church can only consider as heathen, such as the celebration of the Day of the Dead.

These cultures are often scattered, consisting of many small individual communities. The Mexican government recognizes over 65 indigenous languages alone, with myriad different dialects. Though they may consider themselves Mexicans, these peoples are often fiercely independent. They are constantly fighting to maintain their way of life, and protect their traditional lands, which they very often do not hold clear title to. Not only do many of them live in abject poverty, they often prefer that to losing their traditional way of life.

They see the industrial development around them as an encroachment, and often as a deathnell for their cultural heritage. They are often marginalized and taken advantage of by large corporate interests that, in México, often do pretty much as they please.

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Indigenous peoples can be credited with the recent decline in illegal logging in many states.

They are also at the forefront of efforts to curb mega strip mining and massive deforestation for the creation of wind turbine farms.

They run watershed and soil conservation programs, including government backed reforestation efforts. Today many of these people have formed their own police forces and self-defense groups to battle organized crime, who use their lands to grow mari-

juana and poppies for the insatiable northern markets.

Unlike many nations in the world today, conservation and efforts to reverse the damages of the past are still not too late in much of México. Take advantage!

There are many and varied parks and reserves within a few days drive of Puerto Vallarta, almost all with decent accommodations close at hand. Enjoy some of the natural wonders this amazing land has to offer, it’s unlike anywhere else on Earth.

CHARITIES 26

Friday Jan 17 - 23, 2014

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IFC Tours Off to a Great Start in 2014

by Janie Albright Blank

bring visitors for a specially guided private tour.

The Botanical Gardens and Zoo, while open to the public, can be difficult to get to on your own. The IFC provides a comfortable, private, air-conditioned bus, guided tours and the ability to see both venues in one day.

Both the Home Tours and Botanical Gardens and Zoo Tours offer those of you who love to take photographs, whether amateur or professional, a treasure trove of

great shots!

Rubén Montiel Márquez has managed tour bus transportation for the IFC for over 15 years.

Rubén will often go with the volunteer IFC Home Tour Director to view a prospective home to make sure the bus can navigate the sometimes difficult Vallarta terrain.

Rubén selects his drivers with care and they are trained about the IFC. Depending on the crowd that day Ruben can usually add a last minute bus or van to accom-

modate the guests, however the IFC definitely recommends buying your ticket in advance or getting to the departure site close to 9 am to make sure you will have a seat.

The Home Tours and Botanical Gardens and Zoo tours by the International Friendship Club both leave from The Sea Monkey restaurant in Vista del Sol on the beach at the foot of Aquiles Serdan in Old Town. The Home Tours depart every Tuesday and Wednesday at 10:30 am. And the cost is $450 pesos per person.

The Botanical Gardens and Zoo tours depart every Thursday at 10 am and returns at 3 pm. The cost is $450 pesos for adults and $250 pesos for children 10 and under.

Admissions to both the gardens and the zoo and air-conditioned transportation are included in the price. Tickets for both tours are on sale using pesos at the Sea Monkey starting at 9 am the day of the tour or on line using a credit card or PayPal at ifctoursforvallarta.com. You may also purchase tickets using pesos at the IFC office between the hours of 9-4 Monday-Friday.

The Sea Monkey serves a great breakfast right on the beach so buy your tour ticket then relax and enjoy while you wait to depart.

IFC members receive a $50 peso discount on their own ticket if purchased at the IFC office or at the Sea Monkey the day of the tour with current membership card. The International Friendship Club is a registered charitable organization in Mexico listed as Club Internacional de la Amistad de Puerto Vallarta A.C. It is located at the northeast corner of the Rio Cuale Bridge above the HSBC Bank, Colonia El Centro, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico, 48300. Phone: 322-222-5466.

Website: ifcvallarta.com. Email: ifcvallarta@gmail.com.

! Ou bien tout simplement passer la journée à la plage avec un bon livre et un Margarita. Tôt Lundi matin imbibez-vous de crème solaire et couvrez votre tête d’eau petit chapeau la crème solaire et un chapeau, et embarquer sur un bateau pour allez admirer les baleines, il parait que c’est à ne pas manquer, je n’ai pas encore eu la chance de d’y aller mais faites-moi confiance, un jour je vais prendre le temps d’aller causer

avec les baleines.

Le Mardi soir est une soirée ciné au Paradise Community Center, toujours bien agréable et le mercredi une courte escapade à la Louisiane pour aller joindre les dames de la fameuse pièce de théâtre Steele Magnolia à l’ActII. Notez dans votre agenda que le restaurant El Rio BBQ lance une soirée thématique ‘’The Night of Fire’’. Des flambeaux et chandelles illumineront les lieux la soirée

sera la lumière avec des bougies, un spectacle de jeux de feux animera la soirée ainsi que de la musique de la musique live et pour les courageux une piste de danse sera a votre disposition et le tout sera complété par un délicieux buffet. Ouverture des portes sera a 19h00, 250pesos à l’avance 300 à la porte. Pour plus d’informations, vous pouvez me contacter.

Bonne semaine et j’attends de vos nouvelles

T

he International Friendship Club (IFC) has been offering Home Tours to some of the most beautiful homes in Vallarta for over 26 years. Last year a new tour to the Botanical Gardens and Zoo was added.

Home Tours depart every Tuesday and Wednesday and the trip to the Botanical Gardens and Zoo runs each Thursday. The tours raise money to support the IFC Cleft Palate Surgery Program here in the Banderas Bay area. Right now there are approximately 200 patients from newborn to age 18 who are being treated in the IFC program.

Volunteer Conrad Kostelecky works with the Home Tours and says the IFC Home Tours for 2013-2014 are off to a great start.

Conrad says, “Our November/ December tours were great! We even had two separate guests who enjoyed the tours so much that they each went (separately) on four tours on four consecutive weeks and they also went on the Botanical Gardens/Zoo tour the opening week! Amazing support for our club and our charities. We’re off to a great start in 2014 too. Our first week the tour numbers were beyond our expectations and we look forward to touring more beautiful homes every Tuesday and Wednesday through April 9th! Join us!”

The Botanical Gardens and Zoo Tour is headed up by longtime volunteer and experienced tour guide, John Lockington. John says, “ORCHIDS & TIGERS & BEARS, OH MY! Have you ever been to a petting zoo at a country fair, or smelled the roses at a botanical garden? Imagine a day trip where not only do you get to pet real zoo animals but feed them as well. Then travel on to the award

winning Botanical Gardens of Puerto Vallarta for a private IFC escorted tour and time to have lunch in a fantastic hacienda restaurant on your own.”

The Home Tours provide visitors to the Banderas Bay area with an opportunity they could not have on their own. These beautiful homes are not open to the public.

But rather owners have been very kind and generous in their support of the IFC and its charitable mission, allowing them to

Une semaine bien garnie!

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omme il tant d’activités et tellement événements à venir dans les prochaines semaines, j’ai décidé de vous faire part de les activités dont je vais me adhérer avec beaucoup d’enthousiasme.

Il est toujours agréable d’entamer le week-end au fameux Old Town Farmers Market , une fois les poches bien pleines de friandises, pourquoi pas sauter dans un autobus en direction de Sayu-

lita pour le Festival Sayulita , où des grands films , de la tequila , la musique et le surf seront a l’affiche.

Le après-midi après avoir fait la grâce matinée le dimanche matin , dirigez-vous vers les montagnes en direction de Paso Ancho au El Rio BBQ , ou des succulentes cotes levées sont au menu, tout en appréciant le calme de la rivière et la jungle , les ustensiles sont pas nécessaire, mais des serviettes humides sont recommandées

CHARITIES 27

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Friday Jan 17 - 23, 2014

Non-Profit and Charitable Organizations 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 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 sterilization 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 Fri e n d s o f P V A n i m a l s Vo l u n te e rs wo r k i n g to e n h a n c e t h e l i ve s o f s h e l te r a n i m a l s.

They supplement food, medications and socialization for unwanted and stray cats and dogs housed in PV´s city pound. For info and donations visit www.friendsofpvanimals. com Horizonte de Paz: 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 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 at 224-9966 or Jimmie Ellis at 222-1478.

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

Contact: 299-4495.

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 Esperanza- Shelter 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 Mexico Ministries & Mission, Inc. is a Calif.

501.C.3 nonprofit corporation that raises funds to help feed and clothe the poor in Vallarta, as well as provide school supplies, a prison ministry, and baby blankets for the newborns at the Regional Hospital.

It is affiliated with Christ Church by the Sea, an Anglican church in Vallarta. Contact Fr. Jack+ 044 322 229-1129 christchurchbythesea.org Fundacion Punta de Mita LDG. Ana Lilia Medina Varas de Valdés. ana@fundacionpuntademita.org Tel. (329) 291 5053 www.fundacionpuntademita.org

ADORABLE DOG IN THE SPOTLIGHT...

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heckers was brought to us about two months after he suffered a broken leg due to a car accident which was, unfortunately, left untreated. It was too late to save the leg but beautiful Checkers is just fine and can keep up with the best of them.

Checkers is approximately a year old and is a Dalmatian mix, note the spots! He has a wonderful temperament and deserves a loving home and companions who can take him for long walks.

Please contact us at spcapv@ gmail.com.

EVENTS 28

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PURR PROJECT BINGO AT MARGARITA GRILL Wednesday, January 22 – 4:30 p.m. oin us on Wednesday, January 22, when the Dueling Drag Divas (Chi Chi Rones and Joanna Show) blow

J

the doors off as our half-time performers.

As always, we’ll have great bingo prizes and our famous multiple-pull 50/50 raffle…and

Friday Jan 17 - 23, 2014

look food and drink specials just for us bingo players!

Bring a bag of gently-used clothing for the PuRR Project account at Deja New Consignment and receive one additional bingo card free! Proceeds benefit the 150+ cats residing at PuRR Project, a no-kill feline sanctuary north of Puerto Vallarta.

Taste of La Cruz this Weekend

W

hat has become one of the Riviera Nayarit’s most anticipated experiences, TASTE OF LA CRUZ will be held Saturday January 18th from 3-7PM at the Malecon of the Marina Riviera Nayarit.

This year’s event will once again feature restaurants, businesses, artists, craftsmen and entrepreneurs from throughout the Bahia de Banderas who will be offering their goods and services for sale/

demo. Live music to be staged at the Xiriki Amphitheater will be: Luna Rumba (featuring Geo & Cheko), Crazy Bitches (from the Luna Lounge), Latcho & Andrea (the Blond Gypsies) and the Banderas Bay Jazz All Stars.

Visitors from as far as Queretaro and Mexico DF have made TASTE OF LA CRUZ their destination in past years. Enjoy an afternoon at this beautiful venue on the bay, enjoy a stroll, stop

for a drink and a meal or snack, and stop to take in the incredible music. Make new friends, bring old friends.

Admission $100 pesos includes a free beverage.

Participating Restaurants include: Café des Artistes, Frascati, 3 Palapas, Oso’s Oyster Bar, Los Arroyos Verdes, Hotel Cielo Rojo, Bistro Limon, Casa Hule, Xocolatl

by Roberto’s, Sonora a la Parilla, La Patagonia and Tutto Pronto with many more to be announced.

4th Annual Every Tuesday Night Film Series Costa Banderas Chapter of Democrats Abroad January 21, 42º For more information, go to the following website www.imdb.com/title/tt0453562/?ref_=nv_sr_1 Films are shown at the Paradise Community Center, 127 Pulpito.

Gates open at 6:00 pm and all films begin at 7:00 pm.

Advance tickets are available for a donation of 60 pesos at the Paradise Community Center. 70 pesos at the door.

ERIK A. FULFER, D.C. CHIROPRACTOR Quality affordable chiropractic care at your: Home, Office, Resort or Spa by appointment only Mon-Wed-Fri 10am to 6pm

Call Now! 322 182 5045 Vonage (404) 719 4744

bahiachiro@gmail.com www.bahiachiropractic.com

CLASSIFIEDS 29

Friday Jan 17 - 23, 2014

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IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS

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

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 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.

El Patio de mi Casa Guerrero 311 esq.

Matamoros 322.222.0743 El Rio BBQ Bar 322.222.2510 www.elriobbqbar.com

Emergency Numbers for Bucerias & La Cruz

Encore Lazaro Cardenas51, Bucerias 329.298.0140 India Gate Allende 124 Centro 322.223.2424

Paradise Stage Concerts ParadiseCommunityCenter.com Pulpito 127 at Olas Altas 322.133.7263

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

La Palapa Pulpito#103, Playa los Muertos” 322.222.5225

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

Numbers for the Police Department in case of emergency are 291-0049 and 291-0666.

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

BRAIN TEASERS 30

Friday Jan 17 - 23, 2014

SUDOKU easy

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

medium

Number Blocks

hard

Word Search

What’s a number block you ask?

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

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

1. Olive - Orange - Fig 2. Doors - Paintings - Eye Glasses 3. Picnic - Pool - Coffee 4. Rose - Potato - Taste 5. The Olympics - Leap Year - Presidential Elections 6. Masking - Red - Duct 7. Index - Pinky - Ring 8. Ice - Sugar - Rubik’s 9. Jurors - Roses - Doughnuts 10. Seat - Whoopee – Pin

Commonym 8 Answers 1. trees 2. they have frames 3. tables 4. buds 5. happen every 4 years 6. tape 7. fingers 8. cubes 9. they come in dozens 10. cushions

What’s a commonym you ask? A commonyms is group of words that have a common trait in the three words/items listed.

For example: thewords; A car - A tree - An elephant.. they all have trunks. These will make you think!

Wuzzle 8 Answers 1. Last Dance 2. For Crying Out Loud 3. Inground Pool 4. No TV for a Week 5. High Frequency 6. Sit Ups

Commonym

Wuzzles

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

TIZOC COMIDA MEXICANA

Authentic Mexican Food!

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

Olas Altas 474 , Romantic Zone Reservations 222 8382

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