Issue 880, Feb 14 - 20, 2014

Catch us online @ vallartatribune.com

05

Meg Munro galeria contempo

09

Feb 14 - 20, 2014 Free Issue 880

Master Artist

MANUEL LEPE

14

Tourism VALLARTA SHOPPING

FR EE

G

U

ID

E

Courtesy of Manuel Lepe, Aviones Alegres

Discover ENHANCED INFORMATION

Display unique Tribune content on your smart devices Download our App today!

REALITY ENHANCED

Exclusive content where you see this logo You know there is more content waiting for you inside.

LEARN MORE INSIDE THE TRIBUNE

welcome 02

Friday February 14 - 20, 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 Fernando ayala lopez SALES manager 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 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

www.vallartatribune.com

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

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

BUSES: A system of urban buses with different routes can bring you from one end of the bay to the other and all the spots in between. Current fare is $7.50 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

www.vallartatribune.com

Editor´s Note So last we spoke I was driving my mother to Guadalajara to catch a flight to Oaxaca. I made the return trip solo through the back roads that run from Ameca to Mascota to Vallarta. (A woman driving along on the backroads 4 of Mexico?!! Totally safe. No problems and no traffic. Love this road!) Having passed on petroglyphs and cave paintings for ancient Maple forests I was determined to make time to visit the Guachimontones just outside of the charming lakefront town of Teuchitlán. (From the Hwy.15 it’s about 30 minutes along Hwy.70) The Guachimontones are the only concentric circular pyramids in the world and they house the second largest pelota (ball) court in Latin America after Chitzen Itza. The pyramids date back about 3500 years and take up

an estimated 20 hectares. They sit beneath the backside of the Tequila volcano and look across lake La Vega. They have been casually noted by various explorers since the late 1800’s but not really explored until the 1970’s by esteemed archaeologist Phil Weigand and his wife Arcelia García. Excavation began in 1996 and just two years ago the Museum of Los Guachimontones opened to the public. Now on weekends and holidays over 1500 people visit the site but, lucky me, on a Wednesday I was the only person there.

The entrance to the site was 30 pesos, including the museum and parking. I splurged on an English speaking guide ($200 pesos) and spent about two hours exploring the grounds and the museum. I had previously been to the Guachimontones in April, 2011 when the landscape is very dry and brown. Now, it was lush green tones with the valley below spread out in tones of yellow, blue and green with fields of sugar cane and the lake dotted with fishing boats. There are ten pyramids, two ball courts and a number of other structures.

I find ancient cultures fascinating. I should have studied anthropology and geology (and Spanish) but alas, I did not. Here are some things I learned by hiring a guide.

In the lava fields that run through the valley is the world’s third

largest deposit of Obsidian with over 27 colours found in this valley.

There is a forest with balls made of stone that are three meters in diameter about 40 minutes into the mountains; a phenomenon that has only occurred in one other place in the world, Costa Rica.

There are hot springs in the area perfect for soaking in after hiking into said stone forest. The ancient Teuchitlans farmed this valley much like the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco (Mexico City). There remains an entire other site with an additional eight pyramids that are still in rubble, buried underneath dirt and plants. The people here likely came from the north and followed the river systems, moving on to Ixtlan del Rio in the southeast where a huge archaeological site exists with over 90 structures, though most remain unexcavated. All of this less than four hours from Banderas Bay. As usual, I am in awe of this amazing country. I cannot begin to stress enough how much history and culture remains here to be explored. I realize it’s not for everyone and sometimes you just want to put up your feet, catch a tan and read a trashy novel but if you do want to get out and explore past your recliner, there is a wealth of places, people and things to see and do.

Madeline

Letters to the Editor Dear Editor, The Germans never deciphered the allied code of the Choctaw and Navaho American Indian languages during WW 1 and WWII, and due the mysterious nature of the ancient Voynich sheepskin manuscript of text and diagrams discovered in an Italian monastery in 1912 , and studied by cryptographers around the

world to no avail until recently.

The text has been determined to be written in the language of Nahuatl which originated in central Mexico during the 7th century, and was spoken predominately by the Aztecs. Following the Spanish conquest of Mexico in the 16th century, the Nahuatl alphabet was replaced by Latin. Nahuatl then became a literary language used

in poetry and passages, similar to the Voynich manuscript which was created between 1404 and 1438.

Varieties of Nahuatl are still spoken by some 1.5 million Nahua people in central Mexico. The text may be seen online at the Beinecke Rare Book Manuscript Library.

Frank Norton San Francisco, CA USA

Friday February 14 - 20, 2014

Around Town with Julie

juliemongeau@gmail.com

I

was going to do a part two of last weeks article about around town with a young child, seeing that my friend Samantha worded her Mexican experience with such grace and finesse I decided to simply share her words with you…Enjoy her trip. Until next Sam and Sophia week, keep smiling.

Traveling as a single mother remember anything? You decide.

Puerto Vallarta is the perfect has been a huge challenge in many ways. But in the same breath place to take a toddler. Whether I express gratitude for my daughter. it be a day on the Malecon, a I planned this trip for many different morning trip to the fresh market, reasons but I was not expecting to or an afternoon at the local beach, it’s all paradise. Sophia and I will learn as much as I did.

As parents we want our chil- miss how easy it is to find pleadren to be healthy, happy, loved, sure with little in your pocket. and cultured. A lot of people have Nature is free and as humans we said to me, “why would you take are always distracted from the true your two year old? Ahe will never beauty in front of us. remember.” This is a valid point I can now say I lived in Mexico but, I disagree. for two months with my daughter My daughter can count to five who may never remember the in Spanish. When I walk down the monkey that sat in her head in Las cobblestone streets hand in hand Caletas or the baby African lion with Sophia she greets the locals that was curled up in her arms at of Puerto Vallarta with a warm the zoo. I, however, will remember “Hola” or tips the mariachi band all of these things. and says “ Gracias.” Sophia can The people that I met and the hear so many different sounds, fantastic flavours of Mexico that sounds we don’t have back in taught my taste buds a lesson. In northern Manitoba. life, everyone you meet gives you a I took Sophia to Sayulita for the gift, whether it be a lesson, a story, day. My daughter made friends or simply a hello, we take somewith these two little local girls. thing from every encounter. PV is They were telling her “mas - more filed will people from all walks of sand!”. Sophia was yelling “MAS life! Salud to everyone I have met MAS MAS!” I was mesmerized. here in Puerto Vallarta thank you Now you tell me.... Was it a bad for the wonderful experience! decision to spend the money and travel with a small child who won’t Sam and Sophia

NEWS 04

Friday February 14 - 20, 2014

www.vallartatribune.com

Canadian CEO´s call on Tories to end Mexican travel visa ahead of Harper visit Mike Blanchfield, The Canadian Press

O

TTAWA - Canada’s senior business leaders will urge the Harper government to lift its “intrusive” visa on Mexican travellers ahead of the prime minister’s own visit there next week, The Canadian Press has learned. A forthcoming report from the Canadian Council for Chief Executives calls the visa, imposed in 2009 to curb bogus asylum claims, an impediment to reinvigorating the Canada-Mexico relationship.

The report, by trade policy expert Laura Dawson, says until Ottawa can fix its own immigration system, it should simply allow Mexicans with a valid U.S. visa into Canada. The report by one of Canada’s most influential business groups will be made public exactly one week before Prime Minister Stephen Harper begins a bilateral visit with President Enrique Pena Nieto in Mexico City.

One day after their meeting, Harper and Pena Nieto will be joined

by U.S. President Barack Obama.

The Canadian Press obtained the report, to be released Tuesday, which says that spending by Mexican tourists in Canada has fallen to $200 million in 2012 from $365 million in 2008.

It also notes how the Mexican ambassador to Canada, Francisco Suarez, said in an interview last year that his country is “really

mad” at Canada for not being able to resolve the visa issue.

The council’s president, John Manley, echoed Suarez’s earlier call for Ottawa to set a firm timetable for the lifting of “the onerous visa requirement.”

Dawson’s report also corroborates the anger that Suarez repeatedly expressed in last fall’s interview.

“Many Mexicans believe that the Harper government gave them the false impression that the visa would be removed once Canada revised its refugee determination process,” it says.

“Mexico and Canada are unlikely to be able to reinvigorate their diplomatic and investment relationships until the visa is modified or removed.”

The report acknowledges that both countries recognize the importance of screening visitors for security threats.

“Nevertheless, Canada’s imposition of a complex and intrusive ‘temporary’ visa that has lasted for more than five years is perceived as an insult to Mexican leaders and has chilled relations with Canada,” the report states.

Canada has imposed the most stringent visa requirements of any country for Mexican travellers, including probing questions about their family and financial histories, it says.

“Says one Mexican businessman who has cut off all travel to Canada: ‘How do I know that

ADORABLE DOG IN THE SPOTLIGHT...PEDRO This poor little guy! He was brought to the sanctuary after his family could no longer take care of him. Pedro was in a lot of pain due to a horrible TVT tumor at the base of his penis.

He received chemotherapy treatment and the tumor is completely gone. Just look at him now!

Pedro has recovered beautifully and is perfectly healthy, ready to find his forever home.

Don’t let this sweet guy be overlooked due to Black Dog Syndrome! He is so deserving of a fur-ever home.

Please contact us at spcapv@gmail.com.

the bank statement I give Canada won’t find its way into the hands of thieves or extortionists who might threaten my family?’”

The Mexican visa was imposed in 2009 along with a similar one for Czech Republic travellers.

The government identified both countries as being sources of increasing numbers of bogus refugee claimants.

Harper himself has said he would like to see the Mexican visa lifted, but says Canada must fix its flawed immigration system before that can happen.

Dawson’s report questions why Ottawa has not lifted the visa, especially after lifting the Czech visa last year. Her report also points out that the Mexican visa remains in place despite the fact Ottawa added Mexico to its “safe countries” list one year ago this week. The list is comprised of almost three dozen countries that Canada no longer considers to be a genuine source of refugees.

“Canada has paid a high price for the visa in terms of reputation and lost revenue from tourists, students and investors,” Dawson writes.

“Canadian airlines have had to eliminate or reduce planned routes and it is virtually impossible for a Mexican to arrange to travel to Canada on short notice, whether for business purposes or to take advantage of Canada’s competitive air fares to Asia.”

The visa issue is addressed in a broader report on how

Canada and Mexico can deepen economic relations 20 years after signing the North American Free Trade Agreement.

Dawson outlines six priorities for policy action, and the top one is dealing with the visa, either “removing or fundamentally reforming” the process.

She recommends Canada adopt something similar the online screening program that the U.S. currently uses.

The U.S. Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) provides almost immediate travel permission, the report states, after travellers submit basic personal, passport and security information through the Internet.

“Until Canada is able to implement an ESTA-like system of its own, it should allow Mexicans who hold a valid U.S. visa to enter Canada,” the report states.

Alexis Pavlich, the spokeswoman for Immigration Minister Chris Alexander, said Monday that Canada is still working on resolving the issue but hasn’t found a solution.

In addition to dealing with the visa irritant, Dawson’s report also recommends better three-way co-operation between Canada, Mexico and the United States on border issues, regulatory co-operation, and in the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade negotiations.

It also calls for enhanced co-operation between Canada and Mexico in the energy and mining sectors.

Puerto Vallarta receives 10% increase in funding support for public safety

D

uring the National Meeting of Municipalities (SUBSEMUN) held in Mexico City on January 30th, Puerto Vallarta demonstrated sound budget practices for 2013. The federal government increases the 2014 amount to 11 million pesos, one million more than in previous years.

These 11 million pesos will be combined with 2 million 750 thousand pesos for 13 million 750 thousand pesos to be used primarily for public safety initiatives.

Funds will be allocated in five major categories, the first

one in is an anticipated investment of 70 percent in building a new police command post, a percentage towards custody and administration of the county jail, in which there will be 20 specialist officers trained in this important area.

Another areas include social crime prevention through citizen participation in the creation of the special unit to assist victims of domestic disputes.

Cultural and sports projects for social prevention of violence and crime and further training and specialized courses for existing police officers.

The Real Estate Fideicomiso Will Continue In Mexico

Amendment to Article 27 of the Mexican Constitution has been rejected

By John K. Glaab

I

n May of 2013, the Mexican Chamber of Deputies (the lower house) approved legislation which would have amended the Mexican Constitution to permit foreigners to purchase property outright in Mexico’s Restricted Zone which is100 kilometers from the borders of the United States, Belize and Guatemala and 50 kilometers from the coastlines of Mexico. Effectively, this would have meant doing away with the Mexican bank trust, known as the fideicomiso.

This initiative has been rejected, according to a report from the Secretary of Government. (SEGOB) Rejection of the proposed amendment is the result of not continuing with the amendment procedure within the time frame permitted under Article 89 number 2. Section III of the Rules of the Chamber of Deputies.

The result is that foreigners purchasing property in the Restricted Zone must continue to obtain titles using the bank trust system, the fideicomiso, initiated in 1972.

About the author: John Glaab is Vice President of International Marketing at Mexico’s The Settlement Company® and a Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS).

NEWS 05

Friday February 14 - 20, 2014

www.vallartatribune.com

Meg Munro’s “Longing for other times” Debutsat Galeria Contempo As she paints, Munro sees beyond the image, and personally connects with the energy implicit in the subject matter

By Norma Schuh

L

ove translates, whether through a sumptuous meal prepared with keen attention to its gustatory/visual appeal, or a vibrant, intricate painting created from the artist’s palpable passion for the beauty surrounding her.

Viewing one of Meg Munro’s exquisite watercolors, showcased at GALERIA CONTEMPO beginning Friday, Feb. 21st, demonstrates that principle.

Her love affair with the Mexican culture and its breathtaking natural phenomena began nearly thirty years ago when she visited Morelia, intending to study Spanish, return to the U.S., and teach others the language. Gratefully, for art-lovers and collectors alike, however, she recognized her innate talent as a painter/illus-

trator and chose to pursue a new profession/life in this country.

In her upcoming exhibition, AÑORANZAS /LONGING FOR OTHER TIMES, Munro captures the delightful nuances of familiar scenes and objects, breathing fresh intrigue into each through a time-consuming process that begins with a photo, proceeds to a drawing and ultimately to a painting in a limited palette of six colors.

Employing a technique used by the old (oil paint) masters, known as grisaille, she under-paints her work in purple, which allows more variety in painting values - similar to the effect one achieves in stained glass work.

As a photo realist, she is faithful to replicating what the eye sees, but infuses her work with a charming fluidity that not only has

viewers marveling at the accuracy of the representation, but also responding more emotionally to the subtext.

As she paints, Munro sees beyond the image, and personally connects with the energy implicit in the subject matter. In a junglescape, for example, she experiences the vitality of the birds, plants, trees and flora/fauna within.

In this collection of eleven pieces, aptly titled “Longing for Other Times,” one experiences a nostalgia for something that has yet to occur. With intriguing names such as “Market Shade,” “Rafia Gladiolas,” “Moses Cribs,” and “Pescadoras de Lago Janitzio,” the works, which range from 30” x 40” to 15” x 11”, elicit a certain wistfulness coupled with equanimity.

Incorporating calming hues, fasci-

nating patterns and compelling plays of light, her paintings appeal both aesthetically and spiritually.

Her “glass-scapes” are doubly interesting in adeptly conveying transparency, while serving as a metaphor which invites one to see beyond the exterior surface, and

discover who one truly is.

All are cordially invited to meet Meg Munro’s at her opening cocktail reception at Galeria Contempo, 252 Basilio Badillo, between 6:00 and 10:00 p.m. Friday February 21.

Phone: 322-223-1925 www.galeriacontempo.com

PV Sea Dive

and that is to always look cool.

Well, I have seen so many violations of this rule over the past week, and I am sad to say that I made one of them.

Firstly, we are training a friend at the moment to become a divemaster. He has been diving with us for a few years now with no issues, but on his recent return from Canada he had purchased a new head thingy to cover his bald bits up with so he doesn´t burn his scalp. This is perfectly acceptable except it is in the same pattern as a blanket and curtain set I had when I was a small child.

Navy blue with the moon and stars on it! Now every time I look at Wayne (damn, I promised I wouldn´t mention

his name) I feel sleepy!

Then today, I had a new open water student (also from Canada) put on a pair of long john´s, a wooly vest and a wooly hat before putting on his wetsuit and going diving! Really. He claims he stayed nice a warm, but he clearly didn´t realize that he totally violated rule 6.

Now to the rule 6 violation I made. I placed an order for new fins which arrived last week.

I have been having a lot of big guys diving recently, so I ordered 4 pairs of extra large fins. Perfect I thought, that will make my guests happy.

How wrong was I to think that, as they all came in a shocking shade of pink! I am sure they think I am having a giggle when I hand them these pretty Barbie

fins to put on. Take into account they are for size 10 -14 feet and you can imagine the size of the guy getting into them. Still, it has created some giggles on the boat recently. Usually from the girls as they are putting on their nice red or blue fins.

I really can´t work this one out though. I needed a new thick wetsuit this year, and try as I may, the only ladies ones in my size came with some pink thingies squiggled all over them, so I ended up getting a 16 year old boys wetsuit. Anyone who knows me will tell you I am not a pink girl. So, the only conclusion I can make is the designer of this new range of equipment is either a massive Barbie fan or is colourblind!

By Sue Keevil pvseadive.com

Scuba rules!

N

o, I am not going to give you a lecture on the rules of scuba diving, or am I saying that scuba rules.

Well, it kind of rules my life, but I am going to let you into one

of the unwritten scuba “rules” that I have stumbled across over the years, starting with my favourite.

Rule 6. Rule 6 was developed by a class of instructor students I had 5 years ago. They were not belittling the rules, just making a new and very important fun rule,

LOCAL 06

Friday February 14 - 20, 2014

Paradise and Parenting

By Leza Warkentin

Life’s Questions

H

ave you ever heard people say “Oh I think it’s beautiful how children are so naturally curious!” Have you ever then wanted to turn to your child and say loudly “Here, son, why don’t you ask this nice person why clouds look soft but really aren’t?” These people have obviously never had a 2-year-old ask them “why” until they long for the sweet sleep of death.

I recall asking my parents a wide variety of questions on a fairly constant basis and always receiving a satisfactory answer. You see, my parents are both intelligent and creative people. I can tell you that as a college graduate I still believed that I could be poisoned by dish soap bubbles if I didn’t rinse the plates well enough, based on an answer my mother gave to a childhood question. I imagine that this

might have had something to do with the haphazard way I approached household tasks and my mother’s wish to improve upon my dishwashing skillset.

My own kids don’t seem to understand that there is no way that one ordinary person can have the breadth of information needed to answer all of their questions. For some reason, I am considered the resident Expert Of All Things, even though my answers are often: “Um, oh, gee, uh, maybe let’s check the INTERNET together! No? Well, ask your father.” To give you an idea of what I’m dealing with, I wrote down all the questions my children asked me in one HOUR. Not one day, mind you. Just one hour: What is bedrock? Can you break it with a pickaxe or a drill? What are more rare, emeralds or diamonds?

When will you make more pie?

How do feet get paralyzed? What

does nerve damage mean? Who would win in a fight, a tsunami or a tornado? What time is it in California? Why can’t I cut the dog’s hair?

My daughter’s final question ended the hour on a philosophical note: “Is it always time for fun?”

I said (mentally overwhelmed), “Pardon me?”

“A song I was listening to said that it’s always time for fun. But it isn’t really ALWAYS time. Or is it?”

As flattering as it can be that people expect me to know everything from mining techniques to life’s fun schedule, I sometimes just need a break. To this end I am deeply grateful for the superiority complex of older siblings. My son is always happy to pass on tidbits of his infinite wisdom to his little sister, enabling me to focus on my own small tasks, such as driving our car down the highway.

One day I overheard them in the back: Little sis: “Does God STILL make everything? Even now?”

Big bro: “Of course not. Everyone knows that China makes everything.”

I know, but I really couldn’t make this stuff up if I tried. I suppose it’s good news that once adolescence hits I will no longer be considered intelligent enough to be spoken to, much less questioned. But I think I might miss being drilled on whether lava would beat the ocean in a death match.

Israel ZZepda new works opens February 21st

I

srael ZZepda (Born 1971) just celebrated his 27th anniversary as a professional artist. He has been painting and drawing but also sculpts in paper mache, bronze & cast aluminum.

With the showing of this latest work, he enters a new cycle of creative production and personal growth. It is worth a visit to his show, just to view the frames he has created for each painting, a work of art in themselves.

With great excitement, we announce his participation in a collective show in Turin Italy in March 2014.

Zzepda has influenced many young artists.

He taught art and fashion illustration for more than 13 years. He has also painted more than 1000 meters of murals in both public and private places in Cancun, Uruapan, Michoacán and Jalisco. in addition he completed six murals in Sardinia, Italy in 2011.

There is sensitivity, innocence and a refined discipline about this young man. His work penetrates into the religious, spiritual, sexual and existential realms, reflecting

over the truth and questioning established thinking. He is not afraid to express himself. “The artist is a reflection of daily life. I want to be a chronicle of my time,” says Zzepda who seeks to be honest and reflect his own unique style in all of his work.

Texture also plays an important role in the idealized handling of the human figure. His imaginative capacity is perhaps the most dominant visual feature of his work. The work of Zzepda appears

to be recreating ambiguous and mysterious worlds.

Therefore at times his paintings portray strange, desolate environments. Zzepda also displays serene and sometimes humorous eroticism.

Also the artist embraces notoriously religious topics, as well as ontological and metaphysical subjects.

Galleria Dante 269 Basilio Badillo, downtown www.galleriadante.com

www.vallartatribune.com

New Tendencies In Psychological Therapies

By Jean Martin pv.psychotherpy@gmail.com

Family Constellations History The founder, Bert Hellinger is regarded as one of the most important and effective family therapists in the world today. He worked as a priest and missionary with the South African Zulus and trained in-group sessions led by Anglican interracial, ecumenical clergy.

After leaving the priesthood he took up psychoanalysis, Gestalt Therapy, Primal Therapy, Transactional Analysis and Family Systems Therapy.

The basis of this therapy stems from the theory that all members of a family hold equal importance in a system. When disrupted the “divine order of love” is broken thus generating a conflict to one or all members of the family.

For example, when a child takes the place of an absent father, no matter what the reason, many times they are not aware of the position they have taken but feel anxiety and anger at issues that are not their responsibility.

They act like adults in many ways even though this may not be what they want.

Another example is when a member of the family has gone away or been removed from the family for some serious problem

only to find that one of the remaining children take up the same traits and disorders that the previous member had done.

This is particularly true when there is a family secret.

Everyone can feel the negative energy but no one knows what it is causing the confusion.

When a group comes together for Family Constellations each person is requested to represent someone in a family, even if they have never been acquainted. When occupying this position the original feelings emerge.

This enables the person to see what really happened and clarify the need for recognition from the group as a whole.

Forgiveness and understanding may finally be achieved but most importantly, peace.

Decisions are made, paths are drawn, sometimes without doing anything further with the people directly involved.

What happens inside a constellation is also felt outside.

Sessions take place only when necessary and many times, only once. It goes beyond our everyday problems and takes a look at the importance of belonging to a family, community, country and universe, where everyone and everything matters.

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

local 07

Friday February 14 - 20, 2014

www.vallartatribune.com

Special Bridal Package

Marina las Palmas II Locals 13 & 14 Paseo de la Marina Sur Puerto Vallarta, Jal.

Bridal Veil Make-Up Hairstyle MANICURE AND PEDICURE

$1,499.00 PESOS

RESERVATIONS: candy.marina@hotmail.com

Tel. (322) 221 3694 Cel. (322) 105 0183

www.vallartatribune.com

Friday February 14 - 20, 2014

ART & CULTURE 08

www.vallartatribune.com

The Canadians know Green Bay is a good deal D

By Madeline Milne

o you know Canadians are the most prolific golfers in the world? They play over 75 million rounds a year which is about 2.25 rounds for every man woman and child in a country that is covered in snow six months a year. And this doesn’t even take into consideration how many dollars are spent each year in golf travel vacations. (It’s about 1.2 billion dollars) Now, Canadians love to golf (and watch hockey) but they also love a good deal and you know when you find a group of Canadians living in a certain area or development, then they are on to something.

Green Bay Condominiums on El Tigre golf course in Nuevo Vallarta is just such a place. With three phases, Green Bay I was sold out immediately when it was built nearly 12 years ago. Green Bay II is 80% sold and phase III is in presale and offering some great deals.

The condos are well built by the same builder for all three phases.

The interiors are spacious with careful attention to the height and size of the rooms. They are open plan and all look out onto holes 7

and 8 of the prestigious El Tigre golf club. Units start from $190,000 and go to $600,000 for the two super penthouses available.

To clear out the remaining the Green Bay II units the developer is offering a zero down, zero interest for 18-24 months payment plan with additional flexible terms.

The units are move-in ready today.

There is a show suite where you can book a night or two to ‘try & buy’ and they will reimburse your travel expenses up to $2000 when you purchase.

EL Tigre and Paradise Village offer vacation style amenities but at prices that allow you to live this lifestyle year-round. As an owner at Green Bay you enjoy all the amenities of El Tigre including the sports centre and members clubhouse, 50% discount on green fees and access to the beach club, on Mexico’s only blue listed beach!

Only minutes from the airport, there is the shopping centre, hospital, spas and plenty of excellent restaurants all nearby.

Contact Green Bay sales office today to take advantage of their excellent pricing.

See ad at page 3

Save the Date!

COLECTIKA - The Ancestral Contemporary Art Gallery at 858 Guadalupe Sanchez corner of Allende is proud to present Jacobo and Maria Angeles from San Martin Tilcajete, Oaxaca on the 26th of February.

As part of the traditional Wednesday night ART WALK, a cocktail reception will be held from 6 to 10 p.m.

Come and see why Jacobo and Maria have become two of the most collected artists from Oaxaca. They will demonstrate not only their wood carving but also how they create the natural paints that make their pieces even more sought after by collectors.

For more information please call 222-2302 or email peyotepeople@yahoo.com

ART & CULTURE 09

Friday February 14 - 20, 2014

www.vallartatribune.com

The Charmed World of Manuel Lepe: Primitive Art by a Mexican Master Article by Bea Bender 1984.

Manuel Lepe 1936-1984

I

nnocence, sensitivity and honesty permeate each of Manuel Lepe’s creations.

These same qualities are also a part of his everyday life. His canvases are beautifully decorated surfaces capturing the minute detail of complex urban and country scenes, swarming with little people at work and play. Each is filled with stylized palm trees, tropical flowers, birds, butterflies, tile roofed houses, thatched huts, plazas, churches, burros, dogs, boats, airplanes but never a hotel or a soft drink sign.

“The progress of civilization takes away so much of the natural beauty and quality of things”, says Lepe.

His paintings communicate his deep feeling for the simple unfettered life of his native village of Puerto Vallarta. His style demonstrates a strong decorative flair, a vivid sense of primitive reality. A touch of fantasy gives each of his works a popular nationalistic appearance.

There is a kinship with the primitive Mexican paintings of his ancestors. One can speculate that his art form was influenced by the amate paper paintings of the Huepance Indians, the wellknown folk art on bark paper scrolls with flowers, animals and scenes of village life mixed with abstract designs done in bright pigments from tropical

flowers, berries and insects. His unique enchanting style glorifies the exuberant innocence of childhood. His compositions capture the antics of boys and girls with innocent smiling faces in a dream world, playing circle games, riding boats and parachutes, swimming and fishing.

He even gives children the gift of flight, with wings, they fly through the air in and out of his landscapes. Lepe says that he paints children in his works because it provides a way for him to live the childhood he never had.

He is particularly noted for his honest treatment of the children of Mexico and is inclined to be very nationalistic in his interpretation.

“The children are not the same everywhere in Mexico – says Lepe -, the children from Guadalajara are different from the Chamula children and the children from Tijuana are different from the Otomi children.”

His children are depicted in dress indigenous to the region of their origin in a background of corresponding landscapes.

Thus, in his scenes of the mountain town of San Cristobal de las Casas, the children wear huaraches and flat brimmed hats with colorful streamers, as the beach children of Vallarta are barefooted.

At times, Lepe handles his pigments with restraint and delicacy, using pastel blues, pinks, oranges and yellows mixed in surprising and ingenious

combinations. At other times, his colors seem to explode in vibrant yellows, sharp jungle greens, magentas, hot pinks, fiery reds and sapphire blues.

Free of shadows and halftones, there is a sense of proportion and a harmony between the most daring clash of colors.

Using a variety of media (oils, watercolors, acrylics, pastels, limestone) he constructs pictorial poems and treats the minute details and colors in the form of superimposed planes without losing the rhythm and balance of the composition.

The Salon Lepe will be on

permanent exhibition at Genius of Paco Gallery at its new location: Isla del Cuale loc 4, tel 223 4776.

Join them on February 19th at 7:30 pm for the opening of Salon Lepe.

Guests can view and purchase original by this great Mexican master.

NATURE 11

Friday February 14 - 20, 2014

www.vallartatribune.com

Banderas ¡Viva! Natura- A Passion for life Bay Initiative

By Minerva Zamora minerva@bbini.org

O

ne of my favorite things in this world is to sit down with someone who is head over heels passionate about something. It doesn’t really matter too much about what- their job, the environment, books, carpentry, social causes, sports, music, painting, any infinity of thingswhat matters is the enthusiasm behind it, the sparkle that lights up their eyes and souls when they talk about it. It is contagious and it is inspiring.

Rick Main was one of these people. If you ever had the chance to hear him talk about insects, or fossils, about his world travels or his plans on how to protect our environment and create a consciousness change in the people around us, you know what I am talking about. Besides the creation of the Banderas Bay Initiative, one of his last projects was helping Petr Myska put a second edition of his Viva Natura Field Guide back on the shelves across Banderas Bay. Petr’s philosophy of creating awe and understanding of our natural environment by making it accessible to all levels of interest, from the casual visitor going for a nature walk, or the amateur naturalist looking to photograph a specific species, to the professional biologist exploring the region, was exactly the kind of thing Rick was bound to be passionate about. He worked tirelessly for several years to find funding for the reprinting Petr’s field guide,

and finally, at the end of last year, Petr and Rick were able to secure funds from CONABIO and the generous Fundación Punta de Mita, and now the second edition of Viva Natura is a reality!

The guide is a visually stunning description of 230 species with over 400 beautiful color photographs taken by the author, and easy-to-understand icons with the basic information for each animal.

Petr has carefully curated the list of species featured to be both thorough and representative, but still practical enough to take out to the field (a hard task, considering that if he included every single species in the region he could probably fill a whole set of the Encyclopaedia Britannica or more!). Not only is it supporting a local author (yes, Petr is originally from the Czech Republic, but I think we can safely call him a “pata salada” by now), but the money from the sales will also go to set up a Conservation Fund for the Banderas Bay region with the Fundación Punta de Mita and the Banderas Bay Initiative, to support and promote more conservation projects in the future. More importantly, I think anyone who owns this book will be immediately affected by the passion and excitement that filled both Petr and Rick, and will provide you with another level of enjoyment of our natural treasures for many years to come.

The book is for sale now in a growing number of shops and hotels in the region. You can visit either vivanatura.org, Fundación Punta de Mita’s Facebook page, or email me at minerva@bbini.org for the growing list of where to buy the guide or if you are interested in selling it in your local business.

Thank you Rick for your inspi-

ration, your passion and your mentoring. Know you have made a real difference in the lives of those who knew you and the natural riches you so deeply loved.

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

Visit these excellent locations and more at Plaza Caracol

W 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.

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.

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.

FlorerĂ­a

Del Prado

Wedding XV years Baptisms First communion Stuffed animals Decorative balloons Banquet decoration Floral and fruit arrangements Decorative and scented candles

Jorge y RosalĂ­a Zaldivar

Tel. (322) 224 4098 Fax. (322) 224 4606

Delivery service national and international

Accepting credit cards

zaldi_38@hotmail.com

Plaza Caracol Locales 1-H / 2-H Puerto Vallarta, Jal.

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.

CHURCH

TOMATELO

Every Sunday

All You Can Eat Outdoor BBQ buffet From 1:00 to 4:00 pm Live Music 2 to 4 pm “Mariachi Vallarta 80” All for 150 pesos

A PECHO

it’s important that you know

Facebook.com/ElRioBBQ 322.222.2510 www.elriobbqbar.com

TOMATELO

A PECHO

it’s important that you know

TOMATELO

A PECHO

it’s important that you know

Join us in the fight against breast cancer If you are over 40 and still have not had a mammogram Book your appointment with the most professional team!

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

ia Ind Gate

Sunday´s Special Main Dishes

$99 pesos Restaurant Bar

Allende 124, Centro.

A few steps from the malecon.

Tel. 223.2424

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

Unique Custom Jewellery

C

assandra Shaw Jewelry is a “must see”. It is located in the Old Town on funky Basilio Badillo. Beautiful one of a kind jewellery, clothing, and other gifts.

There is something for anyone who prefers unique and special pieces that are not seen in every other store. Her men’s line has recently expanded as well to include beautifully hand crafted rings, bracelets and necklaces.

A bilingual, knowledgeable staff as well as Cassandra and her sister Candace are there to help you find the perfect present for yourself or someone else. Open seven days a week.

Basilio Badillo 269 A Puerto Vallarta, Jal Mon - Sat 4-11 pm (322) 223 3734 From USA or Canada 1-269-282-9550 info.divinodante@gmail.com www.divinodante.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

Architects Analyze

Hotel Mousai’s A group of prominent Mexican architects formed part of an advisory committee to review and provide feedback to Hotel Mousai’s groundbreaking project in Puerto Vallarta.

Ambitious Project

Architects Ernesto del Castillo, Cachi Pérez, César González, Óscar Espinosa and Roberto Contreras scrutinized the architectural and design proposal presented by Kreative Room, a innovative team of architects and designers formed by Karoll González, Carlos Palomera and Javier Moreno.

Each area of the proposal, including structural plans, interior design, furniture and lighting received a rigorous critique by the esteemed professionals: the rooms, the lobby, eating facilities, gym, spa, pool, terrace and the hotel’s facade were all given detailed feedback by the advisory committee.

The Hotel Mousai vision is to shatter paradigms.

Lavish yet comfortable, sensual yet fresh, opulent yet bold, it is designed with adults in mind, hedonists that like to enjoy the best of the best.

Cachi Pérez

Cesar González

Oscar Espinosa

Hotel Mousai At the heart of beauty lies an adventurous spirit.

Avant-garde and gorgeous inside and out, Hotel Mousai is designed to inspire, dazzle, relax and entertain. World class services in a tropical setting, the hotel takes the concept of hospitality to completely new levels, transcending the boundaries of the what is thought beautiful within the world of contemporary interior design, gastronomy and first class relaxation.

From the moment guests arrive to Mousai’s foyer, it will be clear that the hotel is in a category of its own. A cosmopolitan hub of activity with chessboard decoration, the lobby is one of elegant simplicity announcing a sophisticated hotel, a space to enjoy for its own merits. In the Lobby Bar with its high ceiling, you can enjoy a refreshing cocktail and take in the spectacular view of the Banderas Bay. Its design is not only bold but functional, emanating absolute elegance in every detail; sophisticated lighting creates an unparalleled atmosphere both day and night. Definitively playful and flirty, the lobby connects enigmatic spaces and people within a truly electric ambiance designed to elevate the senses.

Accommodation for a new generation of guests Once inside Hotel Mousai’s distinctive suites, each guest will experience another level of comfort, elegance and stunning views. The suites are exquisitely designed, incorporating the latest trends in refinement and elegance, using cutting-edge technology to ensure that the perfect ambience and mood is only a button away.

Each room enjoys automatic curtains, chic contemporary furniture and stylish fabrics, richly textured walls plastered in metallic pearl, gold and silver tones, a flat screen television, a private Jacuzzi on the terrace, ambiance music and a view that will take your breath away. With such spectacular views of Bay of Banderas inviting you to experience above and beyond the comfort of your air-conditioned sanctuary, guests will surely enjoy the exclusive suite terrace, which is like stepping onto a living and breathing work of art.

Hiroshi: Think raw, think fresh, think spicy!

If you decide to venture beyond the comfort of your suite to eat something delicious, Hiroshi is an extraordinary choice on site. A fusion of Asian flavors and textures, this gourmet restaurant is dedicated to the culinary arts created

by Master Chef Hiroshi and stands out from the rest. It is a contemporary sushi restaurant that celebrates the art of Japanese cooking, offering dishes that challenge the taste buds with new textures and flavors within a tranquil and elegant environment.

Hiroshi’s minimalist concept is both playful and sensual, colorful and stylish, tasty and subtle, tempting you to experiment way beyond your appetite.

The Rooftop: surpassing the heights of chic, trendy pleasure seeking.

Soaring high above Banderas Bay on Mousai’s 18th floor 112 meters above sea level, designer relaxation, flirty signature cocktails and sumptuous bites and snacks rendezvous with a chic ambience and knock out ocean views.

By day ,The Rooftop is the height of trendy luxury for a panoramic breakfast or lunch, the perfect place for chilling out by its magnificent infinity pool or enjoying an afternoon cocktail or two. By night, The Rooftop transforms into a fashionable sky-lounge with a difference, delivering a program of imaginative spectacles, live music and DJs that revolutionizes typical hotel entertainment.

The Terrace A terrace for breakfast in the mornings, a light snack bar by day, and a cigar lounge by night, this sophisticated secluded sanctuary offers exclusivity and comfort in addition to premium labels and Cuban cigars. Enjoy the open bar area, fire pits, and cigar humidifier all attuned to the DJ’s selection of ambient music that plays throughout the day and into the night.

Hotel Mousai The Orange Tree Deck: Where your most magnificent ideas ripen.

After an unforgettable lunch, you might look for a space for peaceful contemplation, quiet introspection or private reading; and that is just what The Orange Tree Deck is for.

Its iconic tree is like the conceptual mark of vitality. Chic, contemporary design abounds while nature’s splendor surrounds, making for a most stylish and relaxing afternoon.

The Red Room: A glamorously versatile private event venue The Red Room transforms into a ballroom, concert hall, conference center, press room or wedding reception - events that appeal to the senses. You can choose between a variety of services, from intimate dinners to corporate and private events hosting up to 200 people.

Wellbeing Your body and mind will appreciate being pampered and Spa Imagine provides the most unimaginable pleasures. Like being on the set of a glamorous sci-fi movie, the spa comes complete with sauna, plunge pool, Jaccuzi for 8 people, lockers, five individual therapy cabins, two couples’ cabins, a therapy suite with private Jacuzzi and a “girls getaway” suite in addition to a beauty parlor. Your mind, body and soul will become acclimatized for a healthy future.

For those looking to exercise, the Wellness Zone has it all. A gym with the latest fitness technology will put your body to the test while you contemplate incredible sea views and jungle landscape. You can also keep in shape and in touch with your competitive spirit in the outdoor play and fitness area, where playing sports has never been so idyllic. Enveloped by exuberant vegetation and breathing the fresh ocean breeze, these sports courts make exercise ironically restful.

Enjoy the best of both worlds Unlimited access to five star services: in addition to Hotel Mousai’s unique and exclusive facilities, Mousai guests enjoy unlimited access to all the services, benefits and luxurious facilities offered by Garza Blanca Resort & Spa. Staying at Hotel Mousai means your source of pleasure is multiplied at every turn.

Simply put, Hotel Mousai is a masterpiece of interior design, personalized service, fine dining, entertainment and relaxation: it is passion in action.

Located within the grounds of Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa, Hotel Mousai opens its doors November 2014, marking a milestone in the history of hospitality in the region, and indeed Mexico as a whole.

Hotel Mousai The Suites Each room features: Automated programmable room ambience system Futuristic electric curtains Fine finishes in metallic and chrome tones Chic contemporary furniture and stylish fabrics Deluxe king size bed Fashionable 400-thread Egyptian bed linen Stylish Italian porcelain floors Sophisticated entertainment center ingeniously hidden by an elegant mirror Polished parota hardwood surfaces 55� LED Samsung Ultra Slim high tech television Channel choices of ambient music Fixture for mobile devices Pay per view entertainment

Modern 18-story building Set within lush tropical mountains overlooking Banderas Bay LED strip-lighting that synchronizes with atmospheric soundtracks Edgy contemporary decor and ultra-chic suite interiors 72 units over 1,000 Sq.ft.

- 64 rooms with 1 king size bed.

- 8 Rooms with 2 queen size beds Admission for guests over 16 years old Exclusive rooftop infinity pool Leading edge luxury spa Access to all facilities and exclusivity at Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa VIP area with exclusive beach Both European and Gourmet Inclusive plans

Discover ENHANCED INFORMATION Display unique Tribune content on your smart devices download our App Today!

Exclusive content where you see this logo

You know there is more content waiting for you inside.

Download

Find

Download the App Grupo Editorial Tribuna from the AppStore or PlayStore

Locate images and content exclusive where you see this logo

Watch Exclusive Tribune content from the comfort of your smart device

Enjoy

4

Easy to use. Take the information that is important to you anywhere you go

Application available for:

Enjoy unique content exclusive to the Tribune from the convenience of your smart device – free!

EVENTS 20

www.vallartatribune.com

IFC Lectures for February-March 2014

by Janie Albright Blank

M

any of you came to the International Friendship Club (IFC) for the first time to attend a lecture.

This season each lecture stands alone as opposed to an ongoing series on one topic. We hope that you will find something of interest. All of the lectures take place in the IFC Meeting Room.

A $50 peso donation at the door helps fund IFC charities.

Wednesday, February 19 at noon “Researching Your Veterans Story” with Commander, Victor “Tory” Failmezger, US Navy Retired and published historian will present an introduction for aspiring genealogists and others interested in researching the military service of their relatives. Tory will outline a process to collect, record, and put into context a veteran’s story even if a veteran has

passed on. He recently completed a three year effort to research his deceased uncle’s World War II Army experience and the result is a book called An American Knight.

Thursday February 27 at 7 p.m. will be “Introduction to Kirtan Chanting” with Raoul Diaz. Come to learn about and chant this peaceful meditative practice.

No previous experience or belief system required.

Thursday, March 6 at 7 p.m.

“Temporary and Permanent Expats...a Taxing Affair” given by Robert Meldman, JD, LLM. Bob is a retired tax attorney living in PV during the winter.

Topics covered for both U.S. and Canadian Citizens: 1. Expat Definitions 2. From the horse’s mouth: Your Fidecomisio 3. Jitters or jail: Disclosure of your foreign bank accounts 4.Short term Rentals of your Condo in Mexico 5.Taxation of Expats on Mexican

rental income.

Thursday March 13, 7 p.m. will be “Skin Care in the Tropics” with Pam Thompson. Our go-to expert on local medical matters, Pam, will offer an overview of the important topic of caring for your skin in our region. Donation: $20 pesos or 2 canned goods at the door.

In addition to the lectures the IFC will also be offering a 4-week painting class, Local Landscapes/ Paisajes Típicos Friday February 21 - March 14, from 10 a.m. – 12 noon. Instructor Mario Lopez will teach this Water Color and Acrylics Painting Course. The cost is $400 pesos (plus art supplies).

Deadline: February 20.

The IFC is a philanthropic club offering both educational and social activities and is open to all. Membership is not required to attend an activity.

The IFC has supported a Cleft Palate Surgery Program for over 27 years as well as giving ongoing support to many other charitable endeavours in the Bay area.

For more information on the IFC you can visit their website at: ifcvallarta.com.

T

rodeo and he attends many events to capture the excitement of the charros performing on their beautiful horses. He has been a resident of Puerto Vallarta since 1995 and has worked as an art teacher, illustrator, photographer and graphic designer but now devotes his time to painting. He currently exhibits his art at Galeria Vallarta, Guerrero 187, downtown.

Civil Partnership CANICA Support Centre for Children with Cancer AC, is based in Guadalajara, with a local chapter in Puerto

nity Center. 70 pesos at the door.

Vallarta. They offer tax-deductible receipts for their programs. There are 19 children needing aid for their treatment in Vallarta. More information about the organization at canicapvwordpress.com or pvangels.com You are cordially invited to this free event on Friday, February 21, 6-9 p.m.at the Old Town Bistro, Basilio Badillo 180. We hope you will enjoy viewing and be touched

by Pat Haley`s artworks and purchase some to help the children with cancer.

Say up to date online with the Vallarta Tribune Facebook.com/vallarta.tribune

4th Annual Every Tuesday Night Film Series Costa Banderas Chapter of Democrats Abroad February 18th The House I Live In —Documentary 108 minutes. For more information, go to the following website: www.imdb.com/ 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. 60 pesos at the Paradise Commu-

Benefit for children with cancer he Old Town Bistro is hosting an art exposition on February 21 at their new restaurant on Basilio Badillo 180 for benefit of CANICAS, Children with Cancer. Pat Haley is the featured artist who is donating 10% of his sales for the treatment of these children. Pat Haley`s paintings depict the folkloric aspect of Mexican life. The Mexican people, culture, colors and zest for life are a strong influence on his paintings. One of his favorite themes is the Charreada or Mexican

Friday February 14 - 20, 2014

www.vallartatribune.com

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 21

Friday February 14 - 20, 2014

www.vallartatribune.com

IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS

UROLOGIST Dr. Pedro López Cueto

SAVE 50 % IN UROLOGICAL CONSULTATION

Emergency Phone Numbers

BRING YOUR COUPON TO APPLY DISCOUNT

Tel. (322) 225 1183 • www.anku.com.mx

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.

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

La Bodeguita Del Medio Paseo Diaz Ordaz 858, Malecon” 322.223.1583 Tu-Sun 9:30-2:00 am Paradise Stage Concerts ParadiseCommunityCenter.com Pulpito 127 at Olas Altas 322.133.7263 La Palapa Pulpito#103, Playa los Muertos” 322.222.5225 Las Adelitas Av. Fluvial Vallarta 234 322.293.7778

OWNERS *DEVELOPERS

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

El Patio de mi Casa Guerrero 311 esq.

Matamoros 322.222.0743

Nacho Daddy

El Rio BBQ Bar 322.222.2510 www.elriobbqbar.com

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

Encore Lazaro Cardenas51, Bucerias 329.298.0140

Emergency Phone for Sayulita

Emergency Numbers for Bucerias & La Cruz DEVELOPERS or OWNERS ONLY

287 Basilio Badillo nachodaddymexico.com

Paradise Stage Paradise Community Center Pulpito 127 322-133-7263

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.

Que? Pasa Aquiles Serdan 625, Col Emiliano Zapata 322.223.4006 The River Café Isla del Rio Cuale Local4

Centro 322.223.0788 Vitea Libertad Edificio Malecon 2, Centro” 322.222.8703

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

EVENTS 22

www.vallartatribune.com

VALLARTA WEEKLY EVENT GUIDE powered by VallartaTickets.com FRIDAY, February 14 7:00 pm - From the Heart (BT) 7:30pm-ROMANTICA: Celebrating Love (RR) 9:30 pm - BohemiaViva (TP) 10:00 pm - Nightlife w/ Kim Kuzma (RR) SATURDAY, February 15 5:00 pm - The Rat Pack w/ Sol Rose (TP) 6:00 pm - Milagros (TB) 7:00 pm - Still Crazy for Patsy (BT) 7:30 pm - Forever Elvis Tribute (TP) 7:30 pm - Jaramar Soto (RR) 8:00 pm - BeDazzled Broadway (PC) 8:00 pm - Frida: The Stage Show (MS) 9:30 pm - Shawn Pelofsky (TP) 10:00 pm - Dueling Drag Divas (RR) SUNDAY, February 16 7:30 pm - Acustico w/ Kim Kuzma (RR) 7:30 pm - BohemiaViva (TP) 8:00 pm - The Voice of Vallarta (MS) 9:30 pm - The Sexy Mariachi Show (TP) MONDAY, February 17 7:00 pm - Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (BT) 7:30 pm - Best of Broadway (RR) 7:30 pm - Jorge & Beata (TP) 9:30 pm - Shawn Pelofsky (TP) 10:00 pm - Simply the Best! (RR) TUESDAY, February 18 10:30 am - Luxury Home Tour (IFC) 4:30 pm - Forever Elvis Tribute (TP)

7:30 pm - Jaramar Soto (RR) 7:30 pm - Well Strung (TP) 9:30 pm - Shawn Pelofsky (TP) 10:00 pm - Hollywood Legends (RR) WEDNESDAY, February 19 10:30 am - Luxury Home Tour (IFC) 7:30 pm - Jaramar Soto (RR) 7:30 pm - Well Strung (TP) 8:00 pm - Katmandu w/ Don Pope (MS) 8:00 pm - The Blonde Gypsies (PC) 9:30 pm - Shawn Pelofsky (TP) 10:00 pm - Dueling Drag Divas (RR) THURSDAY, February 20 10:00 am - Botanical Gardens (IFC) 7:30 pm - Well Strung (RR) 8:00 pm - A Billion Years Too Soon (MS) 9:30 pm - Shawn Pelofsky (TP) 10:00 pm - Simply the Best!(RR) FRIDAY, February 21 4:30 pm - Forever Elvis Tribute (TP) 7:00 pm - Mass Appeal (BT) 7:30 pm - Acustico w/ Kim Kuzma (RR) 7:30 pm - The Rat Pack w/ Sol Rose (TP) 8:00 pm - Banderas Bay Jazz Allstars (PC) 9:30 pm - Shawn Pelofsky (TP) 10:00 pm - Jaramar Soto (RR) • BT=The Boutique Theatre • TP=The Palm Cabaret • RR=The Red Room - Act II • MS=Main Stage - Act II • PC=Paradise Stage & Community Center

Flower of the Week T.J. Hartung

Gloriosa Lily Lila Gloriosa (Spanish) Gloriosa superba

F

lame Lily, Fire Lily. In honor of Valentine’s Day, this perennial herb is, like some lovers, not only beautiful but dangerous!

All parts of the plant are poisonous due to the presence of colchicine, a toxic alkaloid. A tender, tuberous plant which blooms all summer, it is used in various preparations by some cultures for traditional medicines to cure a number of ailments. The sap has been used to treat acne and head lice.

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: www.escaperoutevallarta.com.

Friday February 14 - 20, 2014

Voices of Vallarta...

by Marcia Blondin

Track Ten

T

en weeks of intense competition at the Act II Main Stage with all the attendant drama, tears, laughter, great singing (and some not so great) has left us with ten remaining contestants. Track Ten featured songs by the Beatles; a fitting theme given the fact that 50 years ago on February 9th, 1964, the Beatles sang on the Ed Sullivan Show. A few of the singers braved their Beatles song in English.

Some succeeded, and a couple mangled and tortured the lyrics known by heart by every Anglo in the audience.

Two elements were added this week - live music and dancers on the stage. The contestants had one or two rehearsals at most with the

Act II Band - fabulous as always Don, Rhonda and Chuy who are such skilled musicians they tried to catch up, slow down, change pitch, anything to make the singers shine. It was difficult for some of the contestants and another rather quirky addition were the dancers who competed at times for space on the stage.

Still, a learning curve for all of the competitors and, knowing Danny Maninni, the producer of the Voice of Vallarta, there will be other pressures applied in the next few weeks.

Again, for the second week in a row, Juan Jose stole the show; remember he was very nearly eliminated in Week Six, even with the only perfect score of the night.

He chose a relatively obscure Beatles tune “Oh! Darling” and

vamped his way through it to the utter delight of the audience and, more importantly, the judges.

Alain Perrault, head judge, was laughing so hard by the end of it he couldn’t speak but awarded JJ with a perfect 10. Not to be outdone, Daniel Portela gave him a 10.9. Had Sir Paul McCartney been in the audience, he, too, would have given Juan Jose a perfect ten along with his knighthood.

Judge Kharla’s students, Alas, performed songs by the Beatles with their incredible energy and youthful vibrancy - huge smiles on each and every face.

A couple of them will go far and they are all learning so many important aspects of being on stage. The kids have a great teacher, that’s obvious.

Spend Sunday evening at Act II to cheer on your favorite singer and remember to vote on Facebook.

Next week is 1950’s Rock and Roll.

Oh my.....

PV Poker Tour Fundraiser by American Legion Post 14 Dennis Rike American Legion Post 14

T

he American Legion Post 14 of Puerto Vallarta announces their “P.V. Poker Tour Fundraiser,” a charity event benefiting Corazon de Nina and Youth Sports.

Participants will make a $100 peso donation to take part in the event which starts at 1:00 pm at Steve’s Bar. Next we’ll cross the street to Nacho Daddy - then we start the tour.

We’ll stop in at Thirsty Cougar, Monchis/Pour Favor, Escondida Sports Bar, Cheeky Monkey, Cafe Roma, and finish up around

5:00 at Murphy’s Irish Pub with a raffle drawing and the poker hand winners. Three taxi buses will be provided by the participating bars, players can ride in these buses or walk.

Fifty percent of the donation proceeds will be divided between Corazon de Nina and Youth Sports.

The other half will be distributed to the Poker winners, with first place receiving 50 percent, second place receiving 30 percent and third place with 20 percent.

Corazon de Nina is a local non-profit children’s shelter dedicated to providing housing, education, food, medical care,

and love to young girls who have been removed from shockingly abusive situations.

Youth Sports, which is supported by American Legion Post 14, features Futbol Americano in the Banderas Bay area and includes Vallarta’s”Torpedos “ and the “Piratas” out of Nuevo.

They operate similar to US Pop Warner football with ages 7 to 18 boys and girls playing.

Advance tickets may be purchased at any of the above locations - all of which are located in Old Town and Downtown Puerto Vallarta. Steve’s Bar is located at #286 Basilio Badillo in Old Town.

You won’t want to miss this!

bay, perfect for enjoying our spectacular sunsets. The new owners Nick and Larry are generously allowing the Vallarta Garden Club to host a cocktail party with food, wine, and featured entertainment from the Palm Cabaret and Bar. Tickets for the event are 400 pesos, and can be obtained

at Carol’s Boutique on Basilio Badillo, Mailboxes Etc., Ignacio Vallarta 130 and Galería Dante on Basilio Badillo. We will be announcing the details of the upcoming Bugambilia Festival which is a part of the PV Garden Club’s efforts to make Puerto Vallarta the Bougainvillea Capital of the World.

Casa Chickie Cocktail Party

P

uerto Vallarta Garden Club announces the Preview Event for the 2014 Bugambilia Festival. The festival is scheduled for May 9-11. To set the stage for the festival and announce all we have planned in May, a Gala Cocktail Party is planned at beautiful Casa Chickie in Coto San Xoaquin on February 27th from 6 to 8.30 pm.

Chickie built her home with the idea of hosting many charitable functions. It was designed with the largest private palapa roof of any home in Banderas Bay. There is a fabulous view of the

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