Issue 888, April 11 - 17, 2014

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Tourism visitors increasing

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April 11 - 17, 2014 Free Issue 888

Travel

six magical towns

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Traditions SEMANA SANTA

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Courtesy Joel Hansen

Luisa Massage

Peace, Health, Serenity and Harmony! on Olas Altas

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Friday April 11 - 17, 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 salestribune@outlook.com JESUS ARENAS ventastribuna7@yahoo.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

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

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

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

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Editor´s Note

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s you pick this paper up, the highways are getting crowded (mostly because they’re stuck behind a slow moving Corona truck).

The airport is filled to capacity, the beaches are overrun with tourists and the grocery stores are a mad house. Semana Santa is upon us. It’s not much different than peak of winter season except the faces we see on the malecon and beach and in the aisles at Mega are primarily Mexican.

For the next two weeks, Mexicans from across this country and even from the United States, head to our fair shores to take advantage of a two week break in the schools for Easter celebrations. And who can blame them?

Puerto Vallarta is a beautiful place to rest for two weeks.

Now there is plenty of huffing and puffing from the locals (Mexican and non-Mexican alike) about the crowds, the noise, the garbage, the petty crime. Many even (ironically) get out of town during this time and I can relate, I grew up in Victoria,

BC which is filled with busloads of little old tourists coming to see the gardens and the museums and the pretty, postcard-perfect inner harbor.

I know the pain of waiting in line or stuck in traffic but there are a couple of valid considerations we should be making before we get our bikinis in a knot.

1. Puerto Vallarta is an international destination and as such enjoys tourists year round.

This is great for business and Semana Santa is a lucrative time for many.

2. Culturally, the reenactment of Christ and all the religiosity that accompanies these next two weeks are an interesting cultural spectacle and one that I highly recommend you take a moment to explore and gain a greater appreciation of Mexican Catholic culture. Especially if you live here.

But that said, I hear this is a great time of year to visit Mexico City.

Around town with Julie

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emana Santa has begun and the streets are filled with enthusiastic tourists.

Trying not to miss a thing, I have been told that some people wait all year for this holiday as others eagerly flee the crowds. Being that this is my first Semana Santa, I have no fears and will join in the herds in order to find out the real scoop and pleasure behind of the famous festivities.

Although the Canadian and American snowbirds are on their way back home, some of us are staying behind and are trying to find creative ways to escape the upcoming weather. I have met a great bunch of artists over the few last months and we have come together. Next Monday the 14th of April we will be getting together at the Red Room for an open mic of sorts. We will express our darkest,

Friday April 11 - 17, 2014

Letters to the Editor As a Canadian I read with interest your recent editorial regarding the action of our Prime Minister Harper regarding Visa policy for Mexicans.

To say that I’m embarassed by the actions of our government would be putting it mildly. I have been a long time supporter of the Conservative Party in Canada but must admit that their recent actions make it very difficult.

I firmly believe their financial acumen was one of the main reasons Canada escaped the full impact of the recent global recession.

However, their position on social issues has grown increasingly at odds with the mainstream Canadian voter.

Their archaic position on Marijuana laws, same sex marriage and other social issues is relegating them to the fringes of society.

I’m from Vancouver which has a high number of educated young people and these misguided policies make it impossible for forward thinking Conservative candidates to stand a chance of election.

Canada is beginning to go the way of the US where only angry old white voters support the Conservative Party.

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Dear Madeline:

Hi Madeline:

juliemongeau@gmail.com

sweetest, kind of confused and relentless words. We will be opening our minds and mouths to share our poetry, songs, comedic acts or whatever else is tickling us inside that we feel we need to express. I invite you, my dear readers to come watch us reveal our vulnerable side, which many of you will find entertaining and very possibly even shed a tear.

Don`t miss it! Monday night at 8:00pm come join us and bring that material you you’ve been sitting on to share with a small part of the world.

Please note there is no judgment, no pressure. Anything goes in this warm, fun, and accepting crowd!

Have a great week.

Smiles, Julie

Tuesday April 15th is the final day for this season of Galeria Pacifico’s free Public Sculpture Walking Tours that I have led for the last eight years. I wanted to thank you and the Tribune for doing so much to help publicize it.

In addition, the many beautiful photos of the public sculptures that you’ve published throughout the season help us all to remember what a treasure we have here in Puerto Vallarta, both on the Malecon and throughout the city. I’d like to thank all the artists for their contributions in providing these sculptures, but I’d especially like to thank Fernando Baños, who under the name, Mathis Lidice, created the Millennium sculpture at the far north end of the Malecon, and Jim Demetro, who created the famous sculpture “Vallarta Dancers” as well as the “Woman Washing Clothes” and most recently the burro sculpture in Lazaro Cardenas park entitled, “Andale Bernardo.”

On most Tuesdays both

And this is a cohort of the population that is in decline.

I have sent your editorial to my Canadian friends with the hope that they can bring some pressure onto our Government to become more relevant.

From a strictly selfish point of view I am deathly afraid that Mexico (justifiably I might add) will enact similar Visa requirements on Canadian Snowbirds like myself.

That would be a lose,lose situation. Hopefully saner heads will prevail.

Keep up the good work Dave Dick Vancouver, Canada

showed up to talk about their work with people on the tour.

The Tribune´s interview with Demetro written in March by Marianne Menditto of Colibri Designs was especially well done and helpful. Kevin Simpson of the Colectika and Peyote People galleries has shared his knowledge of the Huichol Indian symbols that are embedded in the pavement of the Malecon. Jimmy Ellis of the public library, Biblioteca Los Mangos, Sandra Cesca of Learn Vallarta, and Marcello Alcaraz of the Hotel Rosita have all contributed to making the tour a pleasurable experience for both visitors and residents.

I thank you and them, and hope that your readers will join us for the last tour at 9:30 AM on Tuesday 15th by showing up at the Millennium sculpture next to the Hotel Rosita.

Best Regards, Gary Thompson Owner/Director Galeria Pacifico

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Friday April 11 - 17, 2014

Scholorships for Vallarta’s Youth

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ayor Ramón Guerrero Martínez announced the implementation of a thousand scholarships to be awarded this year to youth in Puerto Vallarta."Through the Department of Social Development Puerto Vallarta will be implementing this year a thousand scholarships for young people to continue to have opportunities, thousand scholarships representing a thousand dreams, "said the mayor.

He noted that for the first time in the history of Puerto Vallarta, they are taking into account the young to join in shaping public policy to generate actions that preserve and use public spaces, how to implement sporting, artistic and cultural disciplines, in order to continue the development of this city.

"They are the seeds of Puerto Vallarta pushing forward, this city needs youth to help us to prevent

crime, to disseminate culture, environmental awareness, to promote the sport, to undertake new and innovative projects with the new attitude of young people; In short our city needs to take a cultural change in perspective.”

Lgbt Business Expo Draws International Destinations

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ew York, April 7, 2014 – Registration for LGBT Confex’s 4th International LGBT Business Expo has ended its early-bird special period with almost 30 entities already confirmed to participate in the Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit edition. The International LGBT Business Expo has quickly become the leading expo for businesses interested in targeting the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender consumer; an estimated 6% of the Latin America travel market share.

The largest group of representatives will be the travel industry with destinations such as Las Vegas, San Francisco, Puerto Rico, Fort Lauderdale, Berlin, the Czech Republic and Riviera Nayarit leading the way, along with the corporate offices of the Hard Rock Hotels and Marriott International, with Casa Magana

hosting the expo. Mexican Tour Operators DiverCity and Leemba Travel will also be participating.

Given the current state of the LGBT rights movement, a new contingent has quickly gained a place on the exhibition floor which is made up of the Human Rights Campaign, Familias Unidas law group and the USA National Gay Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC).

The world’s leading LGBT consulting and marketing company, Out Now Global, will also be returning along with Out & Equal, as well as American Express. And for the first time Google Mexico.

Others taking part in the expo include Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts, Las Alamandas Resort, Pink Banana Media, AMResorts, Casa Velas Hotel Boutique, Anticavilla Hotel, The Palm at Playa and more.

Explore Banderas Bay

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

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

Jalisco and Nayarit, divided along the Ameca River.

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

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

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Mexico to Host 10th World Economic Forum for Latin America in 2015

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he ninth edition of the regional meeting of the World Economic Forum gathered more than 600 participants, including heads of government, business leaders, academics and social entrepreneurs from 50 countries, enabling the exchange of views in order to boost economic growth in the region. At this meeting of the World Economic Forum for Latin America, the decision was announced to hold the tenth edition of the Forum in Mexico in 2015, which was welcomed by the Secretary of Economy who reiterated his commitment to ensure that the meeting is successful and of great benefit to all participants.

Under the central theme “Opening roads for shared progress,” the ninth edition of the World Economic Forum for

Latin America 2014 was held in Panama City, where Mexico maintained its strong commitment to regional collaboration for shared progress and development.

Secretary of Economy, Ildefonso Guajardo Villarreal explained how this transformation process must be based on increased and more widespread productivity to also contribute to the development of Latin America, since Mexico is the second largest economy in the region. During the interactive session entitled “Strategic Investment,” the Secretary of Economy emphasized the opportunities for trade and investment that Mexico offers – as the region’s most important economy in terms of the value of its manufacturing exports –, and shared with the audience

the need to strengthen infrastructure, in particular logistics capacities that further integrate the region in terms of increased added value in production and trade. In this regard, he stressed the important role of the Pacific Alliance to provide a framework of certainty and transparency for integration based on free market economies, democracy and freedom.

The ninth edition of the World Economic Forum for Latin America also led to Secretary Guajardo Villarreal meeting with executives of important companies, such as Abraaj Group, Swiss Reinsurance and Zurich, to take stock of their operations and future plans in Mexico, particularly as far as the growth they anticipate following the implementation of the reforms passed in 2013.

Continued rise in arrival of foreign tourists; grew 11.7% in the first quarter of 2014 SECTUR

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.4 million international visitors enjoyed different destinations in the country The National Migration Institute, through the Integrated System for Migration Operations (SIOM), reported that the United States remained as the main source for international travelers.

During the first two months of 2014, the arrival of international visitors to Mexico grew 11.7 percent over the same period last year, reaching 2.4 million tourists, according to figures from the Immigration Integral System Operation (SIOM) National Migration Institute (INM).

In relation to our major markets, they recorded positive figures and the United States remained

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.

the most important market with 1,210,000 an increase of 14.7 percent compared to the first two months of 2013. Tourists from Canada increased by 7.8 percent, and the United Kingdom, 6.2

No matter when you visit, Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit will share their wonders with you.

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percent. Visitors to Mexico from emerging economies have also maintained a positive trend with Venezuela at 40.1 percent; China at 38.8; Colombia at 21.1; Peru at 10, and Russia at 4.4 percent.

NEWS 05

Friday April 11 - 17, 2014

Top Dishes of Mexico

By Gary R. Beck

H

ave you opened a menu anywhere in Mexico and seen a dish or five listed of which you are unfamiliar? There are countless offerings which are fairly unknown in Canada, the United States and Europe. Here are ten of the most popular ones which you would have a greater chance of finding available.

Top Dishes of Mexico Mexico, due to its extraordinary range of dishes throughout the country, many from ancient days, has been named a world gastronomic heritage site. Many aficionados been fortunate to sample creations from different parts of the country. Picking a top or favorite list is difficult and personal, but keep in mind the T’s of Mexican cuisine: tostadas, tlayudas, tamales, tortillas, tortas, tequila and — first among all — tacos.

Red Snapper Sarandeado Unique and delicious traditional grilled whole fish dish is served along Mexico’s Pacific Coast. The recipe uses a chile and garlicbased seasoning paste and a final glazing of flavored mayonnaise before it goes on the grill. Also, you can use any fairly thin fish filet for this very special dish, such as Robalo, Red Snapper and Tilapia.

It is grilled and topped with lots of vegetables. The real secret is in the sauce that the fish is brushed with before grilling. The recipe for the specialty varies all over Mexico. In some parts of Mexico, a rub is used in place of the sauce.

Red Snapper a la Veracruzana There are many versions of this recipe but a true Veracruz-style sauce should contain tomatoes, onion, garlic, capers and green olives, which are served over a baked, mild, white-fleshed fish fillet. Good Mexican cuisine: nothing heavy, no refried beans and no elaborate preparations or heavy sauces.

Cochinita Pibil Traditional Mexican slowroasted pork dish is from the Yucatán Península. Preparation

involves marinating the meat in strongly acidic citrus juice, colouring it with annatto [achiote seed] and roasting meat while wrapped in a banana leaf.

Baja Fish Tacos [Ensenada Style] Requires: corn tortillas heated on a grill, battered and deep fried [not grilled] fish fillet usually halibut or snapper, shredded cabbage, mild or tangy crema, a light sour cream-based sauce; hot salsa; a squeeze of lime; onions and cilantro. Dress tacos from a condiment bar of fresh guacamole, chopped onions, minced cilantro, smoky red pico de gallo and mild but tangy salsa verde.

Tacos al Pastor Seasoned pork stacked on a vertical spit in the shape of an inverted cone is turned slowly, cooking against a vertical rotisserie. A pineapple may be placed at the top of the apparatus for additional flavouring. Meat is cooked on charcoal, mesquite or a gas burner. While cooking, the meat is shaved off the stack with a large knife. There are many uses

Explore Banderas Bay Here is a selection of some of the many things you can do while visiting us.

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

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

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JOIN GARY R. BECK

with tacos the most prevalent.

Aztec Tortilla Soup This famous soup, maybe the most known and loved soup in the country, is tomato-based with garlic, onion, jalapeño or other hot green chile, chicken stock and diced cooked chicken breast.

Garnishes are typically tortilla strips, grated Mexican cheese such as Oaxaca or Chihuahua, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, sour cream and lime wedges.

DURING

MAY 15 - 31 AS HE REVIEWS HIS FAVORITE PLACES TO DINE AROUND PUERTO VALLARTA

Pozole Stew based on a rich homemade stock with corn [soaked and cooked in an alkaline solution, usually lime water, and hulled] incorporates meat, usually pork, chicken, turkey, pork rinds [chicharrón] plus chile peppers and other seasonings and garnishes. Vegetarian and vegan versions also exist.

ALL REVIEWS CAN BE FOUND AT VALLARTATRIBUNE.COM

Oaxacan Tlayuda Considered a classic street food in the Oaxaca City, Mexico region.

A Tlayuda, sometimes misspelled as Clayuda, is a type of Mexican pizza that is made with a baked wheat flour tortilla topped with spicy black bean purée. Meats such as chicken or chorizo can be added as well as tomatoes, lettuce, shredded cabbage, onion, garlic, ground cumin, lime, cilantro and avocados.

The Tlayuda can be served openface, like a pizza or folded in half.

The Pasilla de Oaxaca chile is added to the black bean purée and gives this dish heat and smoky flavors. They may be prepared in the oven or on the grill. The traditional preparation is in a clay skillet

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 neighbourhood is also called Old Town and is a popular residential area for expats and Mexican families.

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

Ceviche - seafood cocktail made with fresh raw fish and/or shellfish marinated in lime juice and spiced with chiles. Additional seasonings such as onion, salt, cilantro and pepper may also be added.

Aguachile - Spanish for “chile water”. This is the lesser known spicy, tart cousin of ceviche, where acid cooks seafood in place of heat. In this case, star ingredients are only barely allowed to cure before being served cold and almost entirely raw. Shrimp is most often seen, but also octopus, scallop and fish.

authentic crafts, clothing, jewelry, excellent restaurants, spas, theaters and more.

Vibrant and friendly, this area offers an excellent day or two (or more!) of exploring.

Close to Los Muertos beach, consider ending your day with a sunset margarita at any of the

many beachfront restaurants.

Sunsets on the Malecon - Sitting on the edge of the Pacific Ocean never fails to give us a sunset each night. Grab a seat at any of the number of excellent bars and restaurants along the malecon, order your favourite cocktail and let it all slip away.

directly over hot coals. It’s a tie between similar dishes!

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Friday April 11 - 17, 2014

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Marietas Islands

Day’s End

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paradise where nature is truly surprising – the Marietas Islands and its surroundings are some of the jewels of Mexico’s Pacific Treasure There is a common misconception that makes this destination even more spectacular: it’s said that the blue-footed bobby can only be found at the Galapagos Islands.

However, nothing could be further from the truth: the bluefooted booby and many other exotic species, on land and sea, can be found at the Marietas Islands in Riviera Nayarit.

Located in the northern end of Bay of Banderas, off the tip of Punta Mita, the Marietas Islands are comprised of an archipelago with four formations: two islands and two islets that are recognized as Biosphere Reserves and protected by UNESCO. Traveling to and from the Marietas Islands is as simple as booking a local tour, renting a panga or chartering a boat.

You can easily access water taxi

By Molly Williams services from many of the oceanside towns. Some are smaller affairs with simple taxi services while others offer fully guided tours with lunch and activities such as snorkeling and whale watching.

During the winter, you can enjoy the thrill of watching humpback whales that arrive to birth their young. During the summer months, travelling to the islands is the perfect excuse to keep an eye out for one of the thousands of Olive Ridley turtles that lay their eggs on the beaches of Riviera Nayarit.

As the Marietas Islands are part of a Biosphere Reserve program, tourist activity is regulated to help

protect and preserve the habitat of the many species that have made their home there.

However, this regulation does not diminish the pleasure travellers find around the Bird-watching from the boat will allow you to see the blue-footed bobby, and snorkeling in the nearby reefs give you great opportunities to photograph and swim among giant rays, dolphins, turtles and an infinity of colorful fish.

The Marietas Islands are an excellent reason to visit Riviera Nayarit, a destination where luxury blends in with nature and the magic of its landscapes becomes an adventure.

fabulous locales and winning super prizes...

More details next time and do 'like' us on Facebook. www.facebook.com/bugambiliafestival

constant game of “I spy.”

The mother with her young was having a ball flipping and spouting. I could almost hear the little one going “watch me mommy, watch me!” Heaven knows I’ve heard that enough times to recognize a child at play under mommy’s proud gaze.

That there was an audience of dozens thrilled on shore was of no matter - this little guy was doing somersaults all for him and mom.

The whales rarely play in peace, though. Too many excursions, sailboats, snorkel tours, out in those waters, and they all race to the sightings. I wouldn’t wonder if sometime we see a small pleasure craft go airborne from the flip of the giant and iconic tail of one of these solitary beasts.

That will teach humans to get too close to nature. For me the balcony is close enough. I am a mom, and know this - parenting is best done without an audience.

Tomorrow we will gather again at the appointed time. These are the bookends for our days here – the pounding of jogging feet on the malecon accented by the come-hither whistle of the muffin man in the mornings, and then the slanting of the sun into the condo which drags us from the afternoon nap to the balcony to admire its show. Maybe the flash will come, but most likely we will continue to delude ourselves that we saw it. Definitely our eyes will sting with the resonance of the vanished sun, imposing purply crescent images wherever we look for the next few minutes. It will stay in my memory for much longer than that.

organic cafes and the yoga studios to prove it. Visit the Huichol Cultural Centre for some wonderful handmade beaded jewelry or grab a surf lesson from one of the many vendors on the beach. Cooking Classes – Recognized as one of the world’s leading cuisines, there

are a number of great schools in the Puerto Vallarta area that will teach you how to master tortilla soup, enchiladas, salsas and more.

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

that will take you to the markets or introduce you to the farmers and fishermen for a truly cultural experience. Don’t want to cook?

Try one of the Food Tours available.

Eat like a local and for three hours you will enjoy everything from Tacos to Pozole.

Bugambilia Festival 2014

by Marcia Blondin marciavallarta@gmail.com

M

onths of planning are finally starting to pay off...the Second Annual Bugambilia Festival will run May 9, 10 and 11 this year. A great deal of the festivities will take place in Parque Lazaro Cardenas and mostly at night so it will be cooler and, because Mother's Day in Mexico falls on Saturday (Sunday is Mother's Day in the US and Canada), we are planning all kinds of family oriented events over the three days.

There will be a parade, of course - again in the evening with horses, charros, mariachi, dancers, singers, two kinds of bikers, beautiful girls in bikinis and whoever else wants to come and play with us.

Events in the park will include some famous Vallartenses on

stage singing and dancing their hearts out, face painting, a pooch parade and so much more.

Our two main events? Both involve eating and drinking in

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

Sayulita – A short 45 minutes

north of the Puerto Vallarta International Airport, Sayulita is the surfers mecca of Riviera Nayarit.

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

I

have watched probably 200 sunsets in PV. Although the elements are essentially the same each time, it is like watching the waves - each one is unique. I have watched a lovely day turn into a dud of a sunset, and seen dull and overcast become a spreading riot of color. Tonight’s was an unexpected treat. After having hidden itself for most of the afternoon, the sun popped out for the final descent, and became a giant ball of haze spilling into the gray ocean. The spray from breaking surf broke the beams into ephemeral spectrums of purple to orange; sparkles skittered over the waves retreating back along the velvet sand.

We on the balcony and the congregation of sunset disciples lined up on the beach below waited hopefully for the end, and maybe the flash.

People talk about the green flash in a hesitant way, like having admitted to seeing the Loch Ness Monster - it is really cool IF you saw it IF it exists but if it really can’t happen then you don’t want to look like an idiot and say you saw it.

The whales were putting on a show at sunset tonight too. Like luggage-less snowbirds, they traipse to PV when the cold weather sets in up north, but they are burdened by impending parenthood. Each year these giants return to PV to give birth and coddle their young in a predator-free playpen before heading to the Alaskan feeding grounds. The dolphins somehow clear the bay of sharks so the whales are happy, and together with the giant turtles and rays, make just watching the water a

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Friday April 11 - 17, 2014

Paradise and Parenting

This is Paradise...

By Leza Warkentin

A Trip to Munchkinland

thing highly contagious that will threaten to eliminate your child from the musical right after you pay for the costume.

With all of these things worked out and dealt with, we were able to pull it together as a family for the three performances that took place last weekend. I felt a bit light-headed, to tell you the truth, with all the worry over the virus and the costume and the need to be patient with what was, at times, a Munchkin Diva.

We decided to go as a family on Saturday night to see the show, so my plan was to drop her off at the show on Thursday and Friday, have a nice cup of coffee ALL ALONE, and pick her up after she finished her part.

I didn’t expect to be immediately stricken with a “Toddlers and Tiaras” type of maternal ailment once I arrived at the school and saw the stage, glittering and ready for a trip to Oz. Here‘s how my coffee hour went: Thursday –I went into the school “just to walk her upstairs.”

I stayed until just before the show to help everyone put on their munchkin hat gear (no bald wigs!), and then hung around the gate pretending not to watch.

Friday – I went inside just to help everyone with the hat gear, and then stayed to help with Munchkin control upstairs.

I just happened to see her part while I “helped”.

Saturday – I watched the whole

Explore Banderas Bay Art Galleries – It is said there are more galleries per capita in Puerto Vallarta than any other place in Mexico.

Many of these galleries are along the side streets that run through Centro. Stop at the Tourism Office

By Marcia Blondin marciavallarta@gmail.com

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f you read this article each week you will know that my daughter was going to be one of the Munchkins in the American School musical this past weekend and that we parents were in charge of the costumes.

I had nightmares of the horror I’d create, a crudely cut, green crepe paper monstrosity, taped awkwardly together with reams of masking tape that would require special therapy sessions for my child in the future.

With sweaty palms, I Googled “Munchkin Costumes” and was immediately disoriented by children dressed in frightening wigs with rubber bald fronts and others in dresses and odd hats. The only similarities among them were that they were all green and all well beyond my crafting abilities. I went on Facebook to ask for suggestions and all I got were people trying to be clever about my (lack of) sewing skills. These are the only status updates that my older brother “likes”.

Well, I’m happy to report that our dear DEAR friend, a creative and dexterous soul, created a beautiful costume out of real fabric in exactly 46 hours. It’s all the rage in the Land of Oz. It’s always fun to have your child involved in a big production.

It’s so great for the Experience and the Fun and the Teamwork.

What you tend to forget is that there will also be Late Nights and consequently Tearful Interludes and Missed Soccer Games with the other child, who will be peeved beyond all expectation.

You can also be guaranteed there will be sore throats or some-

in the Main Plaza for a map or take advantage of their free walking tour.

Many galleries carry high quality local crafts, established Mexican and international artists and more.

Volunteer - There are many wonderful

www.vallartatribune.com

e are saying adios NOT goodbye to friends and family this week.

Our last Saturday Co-op Market seemed filled with goodbye hugs - thanks to so many of you who have become friends with our vendors and always take the time to come and say ‘so long’ until next time.

We really appreciate your patronage and do truly miss you and always hope you are doing fun Vallarta-type things like NOT shoveling snow (whateverthehellthatis!). The Paradise Stage held its last two official concerts for the season; bidding adios to Luna Rumba and the Banderas Bay Jazz Allstars this week.

A lovely surprise at the latter concert - our beloved Blonde Gypsies, Latcho and Andrea came to sit and enjoy the great music of the BBJA. Although Latcho and Andrea had heard these fabulous musicians before it has always been before or after a gig never have

they had the time to sit through an entire performance. They were as delighted as the rest of our audience.

We have had, as Pastor Ric would say, “The Best of the Bay”.

Included on our Paradise Stage this season were Time 2 Play - always delightful and so much fun besides being stellar musicians and singers; Elisabeth Von Trapp whose voice defies regular or normal words; Bedazzled Broadway!

Did we have fun with them for weeks or what!? We had an over-packed house for the Annual Christmas Puerto Vallarta Orchestra concert. Such joyousness and Canada sent us Jeanette Petkau’s contemporary Christian musical stylings. I am sure I have missed mentioning a few and am sorry for that.

Our bustling Market will continue as we head into our third consecutive summer, still the only Market open 52 weeks a year. God bless that palapa roof

and ceiling fans!

Pastor Ric and wife Joy are off to squeeze some grandbabies for a week or so and enjoying a well-deserved break. And even though it was a very busy season it has flown by so fast. Peculiar getting old, isn’t it?

So, I will say ADIOS until the next time. To those of you starting to learn Spanish take a longer look at the word adios and break it down a little bit: a (to)dios (god). What a sweet way to say goodbye, no?

And now, those of us happily left in this wonderful place we call home, please remember there are still tourists around - intrepid though they probably are - they can still use some help figuring out what bus to take or what restaurant to eat in, so give them a hand!

The Paradise Community Center, Pulpito 127 between Olas Altas and Amapas Streets in Old Puerto Vallarta smack in the middle of the New Theatre District or, if you prefer, the Old Romantic Zone.

Adios.

Ride the bus - Buses in Puerto Vallarta are an experience all their own. You can tell the general destination of the bus by what is written on the window. Costco, Sheraton, Centro, Mismaloya you can go just about anywhere in this city on the bus. Only seven and a half pesos

(per bus - there are no transfers) this is a great way to explore the neighbourhoods. Head south on the bus and get a front row seat on some spectacular scenery on your way to the Vallarta Zoo. Or hop the Bucerias bus in front of Walmart and 30 minutes later you

show with my family, and sang along from the front row because I knew all the words due to the other two nights of not watching it. I pointed out my daughter (who was front and center, whatever) to the rest of the row who were very interested (they said so). My husband showered our star with pink flowers and my father took roughly 2, 148 shots (including video clips).

Congratulations to ASPV teachers Scyler Shearer and Heather Fenton, who directed a magical show with talent all over that Yellow Brick Road.

Just from what I saw on Saturday night, of course.

organizations across the Bay that can use your help. Both time or money will be appreciated. On Sundays, the Brigada de Basura does a morning clean-up with the local children and then they all head to Que Pasa restaurant for breakfast, activities and friendship.

LOCAL 8

Friday April 11 - 17, 2014

www.vallartatribune.com

What a Drag!

By Marcia Blondin

marciavallarta@gmail.com

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eality Show Number Two...a drag race at the Act II Main Stage started last Sunday and will continue until a Drag Queen is found to represent Gay Pride of Vallarta.

A BEAUTY PAGEANT with five very different contestants. (Being new in covering these contests I will have to be forgiven for any unintentional faux pas.) All five were good and of those five, a couple were great! Judging was sound and professional and all the girls received my “10” vote for wearing (and actually walking in) those HIGH heels! The shoes are quite a bit taller than me! There were wig issues - with all my respects! I couldn’t even offer a tip on how to correct any of them - were due to opening night jitters and will be (...ahem) straightened out for future appearances.

Producer (Magic Man) Danny Mininni had to explain what next week’s SCAVENGER HUNT was about...get this: There will be piles

New Additions at the OTFM-TC

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his week all of Mexico will be celebrating Semana Santa, the Christian holiday of Easter. Hundreds of nationals will be in town to celebrate and attend traditional reenactments of the events leading up to Christ’s crucifixion.

If you’re in town, be sure to stop by for a whirl-wind of market fun.

From live music to international edibles and from exclusive arts & crafts to on-site health services, we’ve got it all to keep the celebrations going. And while you’re here, be sure to pick up the newest “make it, bake it, grow it” additions from your favorite OTFM-TC vendors.

Cacahuate Carlos Carlos Valdivia and Lisa Gilroy have added freshly roasted almond butter to their already extensive line of peanut products. Like their all-natural peanut butters, Cacahuate Carlos’ almond butter is free from salt, sugar and added oil. Not only is it tasty, it’s rich in antioxidants, protein, fiber and monounsaturated fats making it a tasty, good-for-you treat. (322) 181-9355 or Facebook Los Sabores de Cristy If you’re ready to shake up your Semana Santa menu, Sergio Alpenia’s new homemade hummus spread should be at the top of your shopping list. The chef at his family-owned business, Archie’s Wok, Alpenia soaks his garbanzo beans overnight, whips up his own tahini and purees the beans while adding olive oil and lime. Flavors include natural,

chipotle, extra garlic and cilantro.

(322) 151-2105 Panart Natasha Moraga of Panart is delighted to add bread pudding muffins to her already popular line of artisan breads and buns. In fact, these serendipitous creations – made from day-old artisan breads and dried cranberries – have been a market hit, exceeding Panart’s hot-selling cinnamon bun sales. Pick up your soon-to-be-favorite snack this Saturday. (322) 122-0199 Zumo Fresh Carlos Garcia and Mariana Goya of Zumo Fresh get up early every Saturday to select, disinfect and bottle their rainbow-like selection of 100% natural juices made from Mexico’s finest fruits. Along with lime, orange, grapefruit and pineapple juices, they’ve added refreshing mandarin. Good for the mind and body, this sugar-free juice will keep you energized for a full day of Semana Santa fun. (322) 129-7849 And speaking of additions, we are delighted to congratulate vendors Andrea Hernandez and Elias Padilla of India Gate Restaurant on their “newest addition.”

Welcome, Baby Emma.

love Puerto Vallarta is because it’s a thriving city not just geared towards tourists.

A fine example of this is the many small businesses that you can find in ‘Centro’ including galleries,

Viva Natura Unveils New Mobile App

By Ariel O’Donnell

arielbodonnell@gmail.com

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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. Located in Lazaro Cárdenas Park, the

Explore Banderas Bay are exploring a charming beachside town.

Tip: Sit on the non-sunny side of the bus. Trust me. It gets hot.

Support Local Business - One of the most popular reasons visitors

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.

of clothes, piles of jewelry, piles of wigs and, from what I can glean, it will be a “Ready? Set? Go!” freefor-all, grab what you can, get back stage and make it work!

I am determined to learn some secrets over the next few weeks and just might be convinced to pass them around.

restaurants, clothing stores, spas and more. Venture off the malecon to find the perfect souvenir.

Conchas Chinas The south of Puerto Vallarta is a thick jungle full of adventure and excitement. Head south along the 200 highway and you will find the

he first application of its kind in Mexico! Viva Natura’s mobile field guide to the amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals of Western Mexico, hosts 240 species of local fauna and over 450 color photographs.

The app includes 1-5 photographs per species; informative natural history information; audio files with sounds of animals and a distribution map for each species.

Petr Myska, author of Viva Natura: Field Guide to the Amphibians, Reptiles, Birds and Mammals of Western Mexico, felt that an app would be the perfect option for naturalists who want more portability and interactivity.

An indispensible tool for both the amateur and professional

nature lover! Download this app to your IPhone, IPad or Android and you’re ready to go on you own personal adventure.

Just select your species, using the easy to use icons, and discover the common and scientific names, size, natural history and habitat information for each animal.

Check out Myska’s website: Vivanatura.org to find out more.

architecturally inspiring community of Conchas Chinas. The beach cove here is excellent for snorkeling.

Nogalito The first town South is that of Nogalito. Set back in the jungle it is a charming Mexican village that also

is home to one of the most popular day tours - the Canopy Mundo Nogalito Tour with the only tunnel zip-line in town. If you’re feeling the heat, stop at the Punta Negra bridge and take a drip in the river.

Lovely fresh water, lots of little pools to splash in and rocks to dry off on.

Friday April 11 - 17, 2014

ART & CULTURE 9

www.vallartatribune.com

Hojalata: traditional tin art

By Madeline Milne

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or myself, I love the humour and the creativity that is often found in Mexican tin art but, without a doubt, it is one of the least known and often times, most beautiful, expressions of Mexican folk art. Known by the people that work it as “the noble metal” and others as “the poor man’s silver,” Hojalata (tin art work) has been shaped, stamped, punched and cut into a wide variety of artwork. Mexican artisans have specialized in mixing different elements to create unique works of art. The origins of punched metal seems to be lost in the mists of time.

Mexican artisans and craftsmen use the tin art to form both useful and ornamental objects ranging from purely fun to elegant and delicate.

Only hindered by the imagination, tin artists produce candelabras, frames, ornaments, jewelry

boxes, figures, lanterns, bowls, and even nativities. Often glass, mirror, talavera tiles and other materials are used to accent the tin work. On holidays, such as Day of the Dead and Christmas, special tin objects are created to adorn the home.

Of particular elegance is an artist from Guanajato, Enrique Badillo Aguilar who’s pieces I

found at the Annual Chili Cook Off in Ajijic (held in February).

Enrique creates a huge variety of pieces but his mirrors are the most impressive. I managed to ship two home to Canada for about a tenth of the cost of buying anything as spectacular back home.

In Mexico there is an old tradition of making tin plate frames, or nichos, that dates back to the

Spanish colonial period. Traditionally nichos were used as shrines for patron saints or pictures of loved ones. The nicho is a 3-dimensional recessed shadow box that is protected by a hinged glass door. The small shadow box is surrounded by wood or tin and is often painted with bright colors.

They often provide a diorama of sorts for an object or a person of great significance. Many local craft stores around Mexico sell these nichos as souvenirs and they

provide an interesting and much more authentic reminder of your last trip than that Corona t-shirt you brought back for your brother.

PLAZA CARACOL

Centro Comercial Plaza Lago Real #430 Local A-13, Nuevo Vallarta Tel. 322 297 8526 Plaza Caracol locales 7E y 17E Tel. 293 3888 / 322 102 3060 Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco

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.

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.

Friday April 11 - 17, 2014

RIVIERA NAYARIT 10

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Fun on the Riviera Nayarit

By Cat Morgan www.rivieranayaritfun.com

The Birds and the Bees…The Flowers and the Trees…

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EP! It’s springtime here on the Banderas Bay and around the Riviera Nayarit. Spring time holds the energy of new beginnings. Just walking around my property makes my senses reel! Bright colored flowers, flowering garden plants as well as the blooming Mango trees, bananas growing (they take a super long time to fill in) and papayas flowering. The lime trees have medium sized limes already, as they have finished flowering some time back.

I also have a tangerine tree… but it does not look like a regular tangerine tree, as it has spikes on the branches…ohh, about 1.5 inches long…beware!

Know Your Garden Growing your own food here in Mexico is a bit different than in the States, that’s for sure! The garden has been growing well this winter season. An abundance of tomatoes, with only a few left to ripen

on the vine. They do not like water on the leaves here…they wilt and shrivel up so are more difficult to grow in the rainy season without a greenhouse. (OH! How I would love to have a greenhouse!)

Jalapenos and other small but extremely hot peppers grow quite easily. (One little pepper is all you will need of these babies, so it’s a good idea to dry them.)

The bell peppers are getting larger quickly now, and I have been picking a good handful of beans every day…perfect…. Although, a bug can eat every leaf and bud off of a bean or bell pepper plant overnight, which can be quite disheartening after all of the time and energy spent growing them!

I enjoy growing lettuce, especially in the summer months in my grow box under an eve so they won’t drown. This gives me ample lettuce for those delicious summer salads.

There is a rhythm to it all,

as every plant takes its own sweet time, and I thoroughly enjoy going out to pick food for my meals every day.

The Critters And if you have never experienced the cutter ants, they come in the night and can pretty much take down the leaves of a small tree quickly and carry them away never to be seen! (Just like on the Discovery Channel!)

They march right in and out in the thousands. There are also these huge black ants, but they don’t bite or hurt anything. When you throw water on them they leave! I only use poison when I have to …and that is extremely rare these days, and never inside my home or on my food plants!

The herbs seem to grow well here in a shady area, like oregano, dill and parsley, basil and rosemary, and the bugs seem to leave them alone for some reason. Perhaps they are too pungent.

The Birds are Mating!

Living in the middle of the jungle also creates a bird sanctuary for me. And all of the birds are making a lot of different sounds, as well as fighting and showing off trying to attract their mates! Chelakalas are very large birds with very long tails (probably misspelled) , green parrots, little blue birds, the brigh-

test wood peckers I have ever seen in my life are everywhere.

Doves, yellow and black birds all surround my home every day, and I expect the return of hummingbirds soon. Someday I will know all of their correct names.

The lizards are also having babies right now, and the little little lizards and geckos are all eating up the bugs…Thank YOU! The bees are creating nests…as well as those little bees…they are not a bother.

If you have a nest of the little bees, not to worry, as it only gets about a big as a large grapefruit…then they leave the hive, and you can then knock it down. You do not have to kill them…they will not hurt you or your pets. (Much different than a wasps nest.) I also have an abundance of those big bumble bees drinking all of the pollen from the flowers, and pollinating my food flowers. I am beginning to see a lot more butterflys in all sorts of colors, but most often white and bright yellow, or the green ones in a variety of species.

Unwanted Guests Yes, there are scorpions, all colors and sizes. They are not vicious, and are not aggressive.

But, this is a boundary issue for me! Mostly because they are so toxic and hurt like hell! I do not need to spray for them in the winter months. I will see one every once in a while, and although I do not like to kill things, these I do.

They want to come in for refuge when the summer rains come.

The only other creatures I will also help leave the planet are the big rats. Oh..sure..there are

ARE YOU PLANNING TO VOTE FROM ABROAD? In 2009, the MOVE Act was signed into law. This act requires everyone who casts his/her vote from abroad to re-register in many states for every federal election year.

This means that each American citizen who lives abroad should determine if they need re-register to vote in the state where you last voted. One way to do that is to check at www.canivote.org, select the state you voted in last, and follow the links to your county.

Should you need to re-register go to www.votefromabroad.org OR, if you need assistance, volunteers will be available on April 9th and 11th from 10-2 at the following locations: MBE 2 Locations Plaza Molino de Agua, Ignacio L. Vallarta 130 Local 3, PV Plaza Peninsula, Blvd. Francisco Medina Ascencio, PV, just north of the Pitillal River Philo's Bar and Music Club, 15 Delfin, La Cruz de Huanacaxtle For further information, contact John Wilson-Bugbee wbeegood@yahoo.com

a few little mice from time to time.

I have a cage to catch them in.

But the large rats are different.. very different. Here is a photo of a RAT TRAP…jajaja. When I first saw a large trap at the ferreteria ( hardware store) a few years ago, I thought it was a joke! NO JOKE! It’s almost the size of my shoe! It barely caught the one I had in my house…it was eating all of my fruit at night! This pretty much freaked me right out having a rat that size wandering about the house whilst sleeping! It happened to get caught with the head in the trap, and was still alive and trying to get out! (Yes I know, pretty gross and sad too!) It was super HUGE! Well, I still don’t like to kill things, so I picked it up by its tail (about 6-7 inches long; as long as its body) and took it outside, where my dog Jake was waiting and set it down. Jake did the rest (my dirty work so to speak…thanks Jake!) putting it out of its misery, and I was then able to discard it.

Dogs are not only great friends, but here in the jungle area they take care of the critters as well.

Jake keeps out all of the wild animals, or if they come too close, kills them. Such as possums, snakes, large spiders, scorpions, mice, and chases away the wild pigs and deer and other animals.

He is such a good boy! He also keeps the strangers out; a formidable opponent.

Happy spring everyone! Enjoy the last of the high season whilst you can, because Semana Santa is just around the corner!

Cat Morgan, owner of RivieraNayaritFun.com Regional Network is open for comments, questions and suggestions, and can be reached be emailing her at: Cat@RivieraNayaritFun.com

Friday April 11 - 17, 2014

CHARITY 11

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Canica Program: Children with Cancer

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ongratulations on the Award to the Vallarta Tribune!

The families and all of us who work to provide services for 21 children of the Canica Program, thank you and the Vallarta Tribune, for helping us reach so many readers in Puerto Vallarta.

We are very happy to report that the Breakfast celebrated on April 4th at The Old Town Bistro was well attended. Many thanks to all the wonderful people who so kindly want to help the children with CANCER. A special thanks to The International

Friendship Club for their support, to Galeria Vallarta for the beautiful Art Exhibition and all the artists who donated their art.

Thank you to Maria Dueñas, owner of The Old Town Bistro, for her work, love, and dedication to these children.

To Noemi Velgara, Sandra Arellano, Alex A Salon, Nacho Daddy, and all our friends who lovingly provide aid to these children who will not have their treatment interrupted for lack of funds.

Every year there are 1000 new children diagnosed with Cancer in Jalisco. More

than 70 % can be cured if the Cancer is detected on time.

This can be accomplished with your help! We thank all of you, for helping the Canica Program. You are giving them a chance of survival!

For any question, please contact: Evelia Basañes President of the Canica Program. vellamar53@hotmail.com 322-123-5688 (Spanish) auroradelatorrepv@yahoo.com 322-293-4777 (English)

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

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

Flower of the Week Crown of Thorns Corona de Cristo (Spanish) Euphorbia milii

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hrist Plant or Crown of Christ.

A succulent climbing shrub with multiple woody stems growing to 6 feet tall, dense slender spines and flowers of red, yellow or pink. A native to Madagascar, its sap is poisonous, especially to animals and children. Introduced to the Middle

EVERY DAY

HAPPY HOUR 2 X 1 (11:00am-12:30pm & 5:00PM-6:30pm) Domestic Drinks & Chilean House Wine

GOURMET TAPAS DAILY FROM 5:00pm-6:30pm

East during ancient times, legend associates it with the crown of thorns worn by Christ.

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.

ia Ind Gate

EARLY BIRD DINNER *20% OFF THE MENU (5:00pm–6:00pm)

EVERY WEDNESDAY

VEAL-OSSOBUCO & RISOTTO *30% OFF (STARTING AT 6:00PM)

EVERY FRIDAY

FASHION SHOW (5:30PM)

Gown Raffle – Happy Hour & Gourmet Tapas – The most beautiful sunset

EVERY SATURDAY….PREMIUM BEEF NIGHT

PEPPER STEAK, ROQUEFORT STEAK, BEEF FAJITAS *20% OFF (ALL NIGHT STARTING AT 6:00PM) DISCOUNT WILL ONLY BE ACCEPTED WITH CASH AND CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH OTHER PROMOTIONS

OLAS ALTAS & BASILIO BADILLO 101 (ON THE BEACH) RESERVATION: (322) 222-54-85 cocotropical@prodigy.net.mx LUNCH AND DINNER DAILY 11:00AM – 11:00PM OPEN EVERY DAY

Restaurant Bar

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by Sandra Cesca

Sunday´s Special Main Dishes

$99 pesos Allende 124, Centro.

A few steps from the malecon.

Tel. 223.2424

OLAS ALTAS, MALECO

Los ABUELOS RESTAURANT-BAR

Auténtica Comida Mexicana y Mariscos Authentic Mexican Food and Sea Food 1

Olas Altas # 220, Col. Emiliano Zapata Nextel: 1862226 Cel. 322 138 8770 email: edward@puertovallartalimo.com

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Peace, Health, Serenity and Harmony!

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ou’re here on vacation, maybe a week, maybe five months but no matter because a massage is only an hour or two of your day and it makes everything else just better.

Located on Olas Altas across from Lazaro Cardenas Park next to Sorrenos Meat House and Page in the Sun, Xelha Massages offers you a blissful, relaxing massage and other spa services in the comfort of their spa, your hotel or condo. Owner Luisa Moreno has seven year’s experience in Puerto Vallarta as a physical therapist and has worked as a masseur since 2007.

Some of the techniques that Luisa will offer you are: Deep Tissue, Swedish, Lymphatic Drainage, Sports Injury Correction, Chakra Balance, Reflexology, Acupressure, Thai Massage, Rehabilitation, Reductive, Adjustment & Alignment, Shiatsu, Magnet Therapy, Obsidian Stone Therapy, electrotherapy, ear coning & skin, nail, hair care. All techniques are combined in one massage, resulting in a complete

and unique relaxation experience giving back Peace, Health, Serenity and Harmony!

Luisa and her group of trained technicians can offer you the many benefits of massage such as: rejuvenate, and revitalize, relieve stress, energize your body, increase circulation, increase vitality, active the body’s systems, release tension, loosen muscles, recover from sports related injuries, improve posture, calm your mind, increase mental emotional and spiritual clarity.

Xelhá is formed by a group of therapists widely qualified and certified in spa’s services. Located at # 433 OLAS ALTAS Street in Old

Town. Their services are focused to give you well-being, tranquility and confidence. They have many special packages available. They invite you to enjoy their services to re-establish your well-being and to preserve your beauty.

Please send a text message or call for an appointment. From a local Puerto Vallarta phone, dial 044 322 7795479 or from a cell phone 322 7795479. (Bilingual, so don’t be worried) RATES 450 pesos per hour, in # 433 Olas Altas /Old Town and vicinity, 600 pesos for outlying areas From 10:00 am to 8:00 pm www.xelhamassages.com

MALECON, AVENUE MEXICO

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Roberto Flores Díaz Silver Jewelry Tel. 222 5920

Olas Altas #250 Col. Emiliano Zapata www.internetpv.com/silver

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his little corner of paradise has much to offer. Often when we make plans to meet up in ‘Old Town’ we agree to meet at Lazaro Cardenas Park.

It’s convenient and the buses and taxis stop right out front. You can get clear across the bay from here. This little street is the hub of Old Town. From here you get the best dining, the best shopping, a block off the beach, lots of great places to stay, to enjoy the day, the evening and the company of great friends.

On Saturdays there is the Old Town Farmer’s Market, at night there is often folk dancing and throughout the year many events

such as the Bugambilia Festival take place in the park.

Just off the beach and centred around many popular restaurants and shops this little park is the social centre of the Emiliano Zapato neighbourhood.

You can find beachfront dining at Los Abuelos or Burros, great steaks at Serrano’s, and coffee and comfy chairs with free wifi at A Page in the Sun. Book a day trip with Jose at Daily Excursions (no timeshare!), pick out a great piece of silver jewelry at Roberto Florez or take a moment for yourself and enjoy a great massage at Xelha.

Head south along Olas Altas to find many of the most popular

restaurants and shops in Puerto Vallarta. Enjoy dinner at Kaiser Maximillian, grab a cocktail at Garbos, see a live show at the Palms Theater and a nights not complete without a dance around the floor at Andale’s.

Recent upgrades in the neighbourhood have brought in new planters for Bougainvillea, benches and a fresh coat of paint.

Chriss Z from Colorado said on Trip Advisor that, “I have lived most winters here in PV on this very street. It is a working Mexican neighbourhood with restaurants,

bars, stores, and just about anything you may need.

There is a school where you will hear children playing and learning every day. There is also a park that has many events throughout the year.

There are concerts, folk dancers, gourmet food and wine tastings, zumba classes, religious ceremonies and governmental rallies. It is a great area to get to know the heart of Puerto Vallarta.”

So what are you waiting for?

Get off your pool lounger. Come visit us!

5

Events 1816 REAL ESTATE

Friday April 11 - 17, 2014

Tips for Making Vacation Rental Look Terrific Miguel Fernandez Miguel@g3mex.com

A

s you probably already know, we have tons of great vacation rental properties here in the Puerto Vallarta area.

Many have their own dedicated websites and others rely upon rental sites (such as Homeaway or VRBO) or management companies to handle bookings. The marketing is definitely an important part of getting the most out of

your property. But are you spending the same amount of time on the look and feel of your rental?

Here are some tips for ensuring that your vacation rental guests come back year after year.

Set the Right Tone: Your visitors are here to enjoy all that Mexico has to offer, so make sure that your rental has some pleasing local art and fixtures. Luckily,

What can $7 million buy you?

W

hat can $7 million buy you in Puerto Vallarta?

Well actually, a spectacular ocean front home that has been built with regard to the natural environment. Some developers say they bring the outdoors in or merge nature with luxury but Elias Elias AR, developers of the exclusively gated community of El Paredon, on the South Shore of Banderas Bay truly have captured the essence of the jungle and the ocean as witnessed at this past weekends grand opening preview of Casa Papelillos, the newest jewel in the crown of limited estate residences.

This small enclave is home to celebrities and CEO’s because of its exceptional oceanfront location, complete services, security 24/7 and the custom estate homes designed to meet each buyer’s specifications.

The “By Invitation Only” intimate event boasted local luminaries, celebrities, and some of the top real estate agents and brokers gathered at the oceanfront estate on Saturday evening to enjoy drinks, food and music, well past sundown.

Prior to Saturday’s event the Sales Director of El Paredon,

in Puerto Vallarta, it’s not difficult to find some pretty decorative art, crockery and glassware to liven up your interior.

Linens and Towels: Look for higher quality linens and towels when you’re furnishing. Not only will they be more appealing for your guests, but the higher quality will pay off in the long run with much greater durability.

Don’t forget the beach or pool. It’s a great idea to provide some beach towels for your guests. This is a thoughtful extra service, while at the same time protecting the wear and tear of your bath towels.

Meet expectations. Make sure that you deliver what you’ve promised with your online listing.

Kitchenware should be in good condition and in adequate supply for the number of guests you allow. Appliances should be clean and functional. It’s better to under-promise and over-deliver than vice-a-versa.

Just like new. Remove any half-used products that have been left behind by previous renters, like soap, shampoo, or perishable food. Your guests don’t want to be reminded of all the people who’ve used the space before.

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Clean and Tidy. Make sure that the rental is cleaned thoroughly at least weekly during your guests stay and again after they depart. Also, because of the climate here in Vallarta, weekly cleaning, even when your rental is vacant, is essential to keep your interior clean and fresh looking.

Guest Book: A guest book is a great resource for your renter during their stay. Include contact information for you, emergency numbers, and local restaurant and sightseeing recommendations.

Wireless Internet and Cable Television: Cable TV should be standard and wireless internet is a MUST! Everyone has an electronic device these days, and many people continue to toil on their vacations, so make sure your guests can easily access the internet.

Welcoming your Guests: On the day your guests arrive, they are both tired from traveling and excited about commencing their vacation, so a couple of extra touches can make a world of difference.

Think about a vase full of fresh flowers or a bowl of beautiful tropical fruit as a welcome gift. A bottle of wine is also a nice touch.

If your rental is more upscale, a gift basket with some local treats will make your visitors feel especially well taken care of.

Final Note: Be sure to open doors and turn on lights and fans to make the interior more inviting and comfortable.

If you need some assistance or advice regarding your vacation rental, don’t hesitate to contact us at G3MEX Real Estate Group. Phone: 322-2090832 Email: info@g3mex.com.

“G3Mex Real Estate does not claim to have the final word on immigration visa requirements, and would strongly suggest that readers of the article published on March 21st directly consult the Instituto Nacional de Migracion directly for the latest information regarding immigration to Mexico.

You can go to their website at: http://www.inm.gob.mx/”

Sites Marina

El Tigre Villa For Sale Located on the 10th Tee

Sylvia Fragos along with her team, organized “By Invitation Only” Broker Events throughout the week to give those privileged top producing local brokers and agents a sneak peak. The extraordinary Casa Papelillos is a masterpiece of contemporary architecture where the natural elements of the landscape are incorporated into the design of the residence to preserve the beauty of its oceanfront rainforest location. Casa Papelillos is ready for occupancy. Visit www. elparedon.com.mx

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

OPINION 17

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Friday April 11 - 17, 2014

The Diversity Of Mexico Part 3 - The Teachers

by Thomas Swanson www.colibridesignvallarta.com

I

t seems appropriate to start PART 3 with pretty much the same intro we used in PART 1...the mountains of México and how they have affected the entire country throughout its history.

If México were flattened out, it would cover more of the Earth’s surface than all of Asia. What that means for México is, between each of those mountain ranges, a vast diversity. Climate, landscape, flora and fauna, even people can change dramatically within a few kilometers. These changes have made each seperate place unique.

With this in mind...we have all heard the incredible stories about Mexico’s teachers...how they riot, block highways and seem to work only when they feel like it. Elba Ester Gordillo, the ex-leader of the largest teachers union, is finally in jail, after stealing millions from her members. It’s reported that a teaching position is for life and is often sold to someone without training. There’s some truth to all this, but it says nothing about why... how it got this way. Teachers aren’t simply a band of savage thugs, at least not the ones we’ve known.

Then why? Diversity. Mexico has hundreds of different peoples, living much as they always have in their own villages, living off the land and speaking different dialects from over 80 different languages.

Every small, isolated village has its own “uses and customs” and these have been formally recog-

nized by the Mexican Constitution and international treaties for many years. Teaching the children of these peoples has required a very unique educational system.

There are basically two different systems. The main one, until recently, run by the utterly corrupt Gordillo and her union cronies, tries to educate children in cities and villages that are part of the Mexican Mestizo culture. The other system is supposed to care for the indigenous peoples, who have never wanted to be a part of Mexico. They are content to be who and what they are and what they have been for millenia. They are willing to fight, often to the death or imprisonment, to safeguard their ways of life. Quite the dilemna. The government long ago recognized that the children of these peoples need basic writing and arithmetic skills to be able to cope with society, but how to do this and let the people keep their cultures intact? Enter the Normalistas, as they have come to be known.

Every indigenous village agrees to send one of their sons or daughters to special colleges where they are trained to bequeath a modicum of modern knowledge on their children. This person is intelligent, well liked in the village and understands the customs and language of their people. At the college, known as the Normal Schools, the aspirant teachers are not paid and are barely fed. They rely on money sent from home and from dona-

tions for community work they do in the towns around the college.

For their efforts and the cost to their often impoverished communities, upon graduation they are guaranteed a teaching position in their village for life and the right to bequeath that position to another village member if necessary.

Sounds good for everybody, right?

In steps corruption, racism, and greed. The federal funds for all of Mexico’s schools are distributed through local governments and the teacher’s unions (this is finally changing with the new reforms). It often disappears long before it gets to the children who need it. Not only are teacher wages rarely paid, classrooms often have no electric, no sanitary

facilities, not even drinking water.

Students often walk many kilometers just to attend. In the poorer indigenous communities, classes are held under a tree or a tarp because the school rooms are uninhabitable. The students aren’t fed, parents often have to pay for schoolbooks and supplies and to feed the teacher.

So, the Normalista teachers take to the streets to aid their students and their communities.

They regularly go to the cities to protest...often violently...what they see as government neglect, indifference, outright theft and flagrant violations of their civil rights, both as indigenous people and as Mexican citizens. They have little choice. They have dedicated their

lives to the children of their village.

In return they are often met with violence and contempt. The international press would even blame them for trying to do their jobs.

Many mainstream Mexicans don’t see it this way, especially those living in close proximity to the Indian communities. They see the indigenous people as ignorant subhumans, in the way of progress and prosperity.

The saying that summed up the American West 150 years ago comes to mind, “the only good Indian is a dead Indian.” Others wonder, while life is so difficult for all of us and we all have to play by the same set of rules, why 20% of our population is allowed to live outside those rules, in poverty and relative ignorance, unassimilated, blocking progress while controlling vast tracts of marginal, but mineral wealthy, land and potential water resources. Others feel that the indigenous people are weighing Mexico down, keeping them locked in a third world country.

Who is to say who is right and who is to blame? Everyone a little and no one completely. Seems like we’ve heard this kind of thing before.

Events 1818 TRADITIONS

Friday April 11 - 17, 2014

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Preparing for Semana Santa Photos by Bud Ellison

S

emana Santa, or Holy Week, is the week leading up to Easter and and Pascua is the week from Resurrection Sunday until the next Saturday.

This is the most important holiday in the church calendar because it is the celebration of the resurrection of Christ.

Since Mexico is predominantly a Catholic country Holy Week is a very important holiday.

In addition to being the holiest of holidays it also encompasses ‘spring break’ for the Mexican schools and businesses. Destinations such as Puerto Vallarta become filled to the brim with Mexican tourists, set on enjoying the beach town. While locals might complain about the crowds and noise, the events are an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the Mexican culture.

Each community celebrates the holiday with its own regional flavor, however, popular with the whole country is the breaking of cascarones, colored egg shells filled with confetti, over friends and family. Churches will be filled with those attending Mass on Good Friday and Easter Sunday, and families will take this opportunity to be together.

Palm Sunday (April 13th) On the Sunday prior to Easter, known as Palm Sunday, the arrival of Jesus in Jerusalem is commemorated. According to the Bible Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey and the people in the streets laid down palm branches in his path. In many towns and villages in Mexico on this day there are processions re-enacting Jesus’ triumphal entry, and woven palms are sold outside churches.

Maundy Thursday (April 17th) The Thursday of Holy Week is known as Maundy Thursday or Holy Thursday. This day commemorates the washing of the feet of the apostles, the Last Supper and Jesus’ arrest in Gethsemane. Some Mexican traditions for Maundy Thursday include visiting seven churches to recall the vigil the apostles kept in the garden while Jesus prayed before his arrest, foot-washing ceremonies and of course Mass with Holy Communion.

Good Friday (April 18th) Good Friday recalls the crucifixion of Christ. On this day there are solemn religious processions in which statues of Christ and the Virgin Mary are carried through town. Often the participants of these processions dress in costumes to evoke the time of Jesus.

Passion plays, dramatic recreations of the crucifixion of Christ, are presented in many communities.

The largest takes place in Iztapa-

lapa, south of Mexico City, where over a million people gather every year for the Via Crucis.

Easter Sunday (April 20th) You won’t come across any mention of the Easter Bunny or chocolate eggs on Easter Sunday in Mexico.

This is generally a day when people go to Mass and celebrate quietly with their families; though in some places there are festivities with fireworks.

TRAVEL 19

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Friday April 11 - 17, 2014

Six Magical Towns

By Antonio Vázquez

W

e bring you a small sampling of towns that have preserved their character and customs over the centuries and that continue to captivate Mexicans and foreigners alike with their hospitality and picturesqueness.

‘Pueblo Magico’ is the collective name the Ministry of Tourism (SECTUR) has given to select towns whose architecture, customs and culture have remained intact over the centuries and that have witnessed landmark events in Mexico’s history. As you walk down their quaint streets and admire their arts and crafts, or maybe stop for a cup of coffee and some local fare, it’s easy to understand why these towns are famous beyond Mexico’s borders.

Best of all, most are less than 200 kilometers –a two hour drive– from a major destination!

San Cristóbal de las Casas Cosmopolitan Mysticism Colorful, mystical and cosmopolitan are the three words that best sum up San Cristóbal de las Casas, the third most important municipality in the southeastern state of Chiapas in terms of revenue.

Perched high up in the mountains, you can never be sure what the weather’s going to be like in San Cristóbal. The city was founded in 1528 and was one of the first Spanish settlements in America.

Its architecture is a mix of Spanish and indigenous styles: narrow pedestrian streets lined with brightly colored houses with red tiled roofs. Among its most striking buildings is the Church of Santo Domingo, carved in the Spanish neo-baroque style by the hands of Tzotzil, Tzeltal and Lacandon natives during colonial times.

Cold cuts and hams are the specialty here, washed down with corn atole, tascalate, pozol (both made from cacao) or posh, a potent alcoholic drink made from sugar cane and corn. But given its popularity among foreign tourists, San Cristóbal de las Casas also has a decent selection of restaurants serving up international fare.

There is an abundance of amber mines in the region so if you’re looking for a souvenir, how about an exclusive hand crafted piece of amber jewelry?

San Cristóbal de las Casas

Comala

Comala A White Wonder In Náhuatl, Comala means “Land of Comales”, those round griddles used in Mexico to make and heat tortillas.

This Magical Town in the western state of Colima borders the Fuego and Nevado de Colima volcanoes to the north, the Sierra de Manantlán Biosphere Reserve to the west and the Valley of Colima to the south. To the east is Las Huertas de Comala, one of four natural areas protected by presidential decree.

Since 1962, all the houses and public buildings in Comala have been painted white, earning it the moniker the “White Village of America”. The town is also associated with the classic Mexican novel Pedro Páramo by Juan Rulfo.

Around the main square are numerous bars where you can sample authentic regional specialties like sopes, enchiladas, tacos dorados and tacos de barbacoa, as well as traditional beverages like tuba (made from coconut palm) and locally grown coffee.

Xilitla Surreal Landscapes Visiting Xilitla is like walking

straight into a Dalí painting.

Hemmed in by lush vegetation, mountains and majestic waterfalls, this town in the Huasteca Mountains in the state of San Luis Potosí is home to stately residences and oddities like Las Pozas.

Created by the eccentric English millionaire Sir Edward James in 1949, Las Pozas is a gothic-inspired dream world of stairs and passageways that lead nowhere, fountains and inverted columns.

There are 36 structures in all covering an area of some 36 square hectares, the most famous of which are “The Stairway to Heaven”, “The Path of the Seven Snakes”, “The Bedroom with a Whale-shaped Ceiling” and “The Structure Called Cinema”.

Xilitla, which means “Place of Snails” in Náhuatl, is also famous for its temascales, a type of pre-Hispanic steam bath. The fantasy ends with some zacahuiles (corn tamales up to two meters long, filled with chili, pork or chicken) and a cup of locally grown coffee.

Bacalar Seven Shades of Blue Ideal for nature lovers, the main attraction in Bacalar is its enormous lake, whose calm waters and fine white sand make for the perfect picture postcard. Said to have seven shades of blue, this breathtaking lake connects with the Blue Cenote, a series of archaeological sites and the hotel, golfing and ecotourism facilities that have sprung up around the Bay of Chetumal.

In Maya, Bacalar means “surrounded by reeds” and even before the arrival of the Spanish the town was an important trading post in the Yucatán Peninsula and

a gateway to Central America.

In Colonial times, it was constantly besieged by pirates and plundered for its dyewood, which the English used to dye textiles.

Local handicrafts include wood carvings, hand dyed huipiles, palm baskets and hammocks, while Bacalar’s proximity to Belize has had a notable influence on its cuisine: rice, bean and coconut oil-based dishes are generally served as an accompaniment to a variety of fish and seafood.

Valle de Bravo Extreme Exclusivity An hour and a half from Mexico City lies Valle de Bravo, a Magical Town whose exclusive ecotourism and golfing facilities have earned it quite a bit of prestige. There is an enormous lake where you can sail, waterski, kayak or fish, and the weather is nearly always cool.

Paragliding, hang gliding and trike buggies are popular sports and an extreme way to get a privileged view of the town with its steep streets, the lake and surrounding forest.

Burnt sienna roof tiles add warmth to the picturesque white stucco houses with their wrought iron railings, while the main square has a bandstand with wood columns and benches where you can sit and watch life pass you by, ice cream in hand.

One of Valle’s most striking historic buildings is the Church of San Francisco de Asís, which boasts a wooden sculpture of St. Francis dating from the seventeenth century. The town also has a large handicrafts market specia-

Valle de Bravo

lizing mainly in ceramics and textiles. As far as food goes, the choice is ample: rainbow trout, turkey with mole, artichokes with beef and pit-roast lamb are just a few of the local delicacies.

San Sebastián del Oeste Where Time Stood Still To the west of Jalisco, almost on the edge of the Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range, is San Sebastián del Oeste, a small town that grazes the clouds and where time appears to have come to a standstill. The main square features a garden and a bandstand surrounded by trees and moss-covered walls. In the distance, the trickling of a stream under a stone bridge echoes the tone of the rest of the region, strung together by abandoned mines and ghost towns.

One of the town’s main attractions is its cemetery, perched on top of a volcano with gravestones sculpted out of local quarry stone.

Watching the sun set over San Sebastián from Cerro de la Bufa is an unforgettable experience.

Other places of interest include Hacienda Esperanza de la Galera and its bountiful fruit trees, Quinta Mary, which produces organic coffee, and Hacienda Jalisco, a museum and hotel that gets by without electricity.

A plate of corn smut and onion, and a peach or guava dessert washed down with chocorraíz (made of chocolate and a tequila-like beverage known as raicilla) make a fitting end to a day in San Sebastián del Oeste.

CHARITIES 20

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Friday April 11 - 17, 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. www. landon5120.wix.com/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

Fundacion Punta de Mita LDG. Ana Lilia Medina Varas de Valdés. ana@ fundacionpuntademita.org Tel. (329) 291 5053 www.fundacionpuntademita.org

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

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

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, 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

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

Puerto Vallarta Garden Club: Beautify and protecting the environment. vallartagardenclub.com PuRR Project - A no-kill cat shelter, a natural un-caged environment. www.purrproject.com

La Brigada de la Basur:a A weekly meeting of neighborhood children to clean Vallarta Streets.

Contact Que?Pasa 223-4006 Mexico Ministries & Mission, Inc. raises funds to the poor in Vallarta. Contact Fr. Jack+ 044 322 229-1129 christchurchbythesea.org

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

New Life Mexico - Challenging Child Poverty with health and education programs. Philippa Vernon pvp@newlifemexico.com

ADORABLE DOG IN THE SPOTLIGHT...GIPSY

G

Proyecto Pitillal, “Busca un Amigo” - Association created by underprivileged mothers of paralyzed children. Contact: 299-4495.

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.

Families At The Dump: Supporting families living in the landfill or garbage dump thru education and sustainable opportunities. www.familiesatthedump.org or 297-7425

ipsy was abandoned at a construction site where she would occasionally be tossed some food, although just as often abused by the workers. Concerned neighbors contacted us when it became obvious she was pregnant. We were able to finally rescue her from the job site along with her eight pups. Gipsy, a Terrier mix, is approximately four years old and weighs 20 kilos or 44 pounds.

Her babies are in the process of finding their fur-ever homes and it Gipsy’s turn now. She is a very mellow lady and would be a delightful companion! Please contact us at spcapv@gmail.com.

Pro Biblioteca de Vallarta - Raises funds for Los Mangos Public Library. Tax-deductible Ricardo Murrieta at 224-9966 or Jimmie Ellis at 222-1478.

Friends of PV Animals Volunteers working to enhance the lives of shelter animals. For info and donations visit friendsofpvanimals.com

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

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

PEACEAnimals - Free mobile spay/neuter clinic operating 48 weeks a year, primarily in Puerto Vallarta. Tax-deductible. peaceanimals.org

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. pasitosdeluz.org

Refugio Infantil Santa Esperanza- Shelter for Children. Tax-deductible. 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. kids.romamexico.com The International Friendship Club (IFC) Supports the Cleft Palate Surgery Program & families in need. 322-222-5466. ifcvallarta.com. ifcvallarta@gmail.com.

Toys for Tots Vallarta - Distributes toys and constructs playgrounds for 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

CLASSIFIEDS 21

Friday April 11 - 17, 2014

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IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS OFF

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

4th Annual Every Tuesday Night Film Series Costa Banderas Chapter of Democrats Abroad April 15th 2014 The Impossible 114 minutes.

For more information, go to the following website http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1649419/combined 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.

Films are shown at Paradise Community Center is located at 127 Pulpito, Puerto Vallarta, directly across from Coco’s Kitchen in the Zona Romantica.

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

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

Emergency Numbers for Bucerias & La Cruz

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 Rio BBQ Bar 322.222.2510 www.elriobbqbar.com

El Dorado Pulpito # 102, Playa los Muertos” 322.222.4124 El Patio de mi Casa Guerrero 311 esq.

Matamoros 322.222.0743

Encore Lazaro Cardenas51, Bucerias 329.298.0140 La Bodeguita Del Medio Paseo Diaz Ordaz 858, Malecon” 322.223.1583 Tu-Sun 9:30-2:00 am

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

SPORTS / BRAIN TEASERS 22

Friday April 11 - 17, 2014

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Random thoughts from the Tribune Sports desk

By Joel Hansen

Adios Canucks!

W

ell, stick a fork in the Canucks. They are done. No play-offs in Vancouver and to make matters worse, they just fired the wrong guy. Mike Gillis is out, and it looks like my arch nemesis John Torterella has won the power struggle.

Which is a major shame. I think Gillis did a great job; moving the Canucks from number eight in NHL revenue to number two, increasing the value from around $280 million to close to $800

million. He encouraged a fast, up-tempo style of play and took us to a game of the cup. Now we are stuck with Torterella and a basically an unwatchable style of hockey. The Canucks have also hired Trevor Linden to be the new president of the team, I am not to sure if this move isn’t just to help ticket sales. I like Trevor but, it remains to be seen what he can do as an executive.

The countdown is underway for the 3rd International Maserati Beach Polo Cup 2014 which will be held in the Riviera Nayarit, beside

SUDOKU

easy

Number Blocks What’s a number block you ask? A number block is group of numbers formed in a block. 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.

the Peninsula Nuevo Vallarta. The event runs May 2nd to 4th .

“We expect about 600 spectators a day for the polo matches.

Six teams will compete, featuring some of the best polo players in Mexico. But mostly, the cooperation of Riviera Nayarit with Hard Rock Hotels enable us to offer a show in which polo, the beach, bikinis, and rock’n’roll are merged into a concept that is rarely seen in our country,” says Froylan Caballero from the Organizing Committee.

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.

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This is open to the general public and is the only polo tournament in Mexico that is played on the beach.

Competition begins on the 2nd at 2:00 pm with the qualifying games ending at 5:00 pm and live entertainment at the Hard Rock after.

On Saturday May 3rd matches begin at 1:00 pm until 7:00 pm.

The finals are set for Sunday starting at 1pm for fifth place.

3:00 pm for third place and the final will be at 5:00 pm.

VALLARTA WEEKLY EVENT GUIDE powered by VallartaTickets.com FRIDAY APRIL 11 \ VIERNES 11 DE ABRIL 10:00 am - Southside City Walking Tour 7:00 pm - Fosse - All That Dance! (BT) 8:00 pm - Tapestry (MS) 8:00 pm - Los Bambinos Unplugged! (Roxy) 8:30 pm - Desperate Princesses (BT) [in Spanish] 9:00 pm - The Best of Dwight Blake (RR) SATURDAY APRIL 12 \ SABADO 12 DE ABRIL 8:00 pm - Tapestry (MS) 10:00 pm - Dueling Drag Divas (RR) [FINAL SHOW!] SUNDAY APRIL 13 \ DOMINGO 13 DE ABRIL 7:30 pm - Acustico w/ Kim Kuzma (RR) [FINAL SHOW!] 8:00 pm - Las Anecdotas del Miembro (MS) 10:00 pm - Drag Race Vallarta (MS) MONDAY APRIL 14 \ LUNES 14 DE ABRIL 10:00 am - Architecture and History of Gringo Gulch Tour 7:00 pm - Joseph Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (BT) 8:00 pm - Jorge & Beata (TP) TUESDAY APRIL 15 \ MARTES 15 DE ABRIL 7:00 pm - Still Crazy for Patsy (BT) 8:00 pm - Tapestry (MS) WEDNESDAY APRIL 16 \ MIERCOLES 16 DE ABRIL 7:00 pm - New York Radio Show: A New Musical (BT) 7:00 pm - Frida The Stage Show (MS) THURSDAY APRIL 17 \ JUEVES 17 DE ABRIL 8:00 pm - Tapestry (MS) 9:00 pm - La Gorda (TP) 8:30 pm - Desperate Princesses (BT) [in Spanish] FRIDAY APRIL 18 \ VIERNES 18 DE ABRIL 10:00 am - Southside City Walking Tour 7:00 pm - Fosse - All That Dance! (BT) 8:00 pm - Tapestry (MS) 8:30 pm - Desperate Princesses (BT) [in Spanish] 9:00 pm - La Gorda (TP) BT=Boutique Theatre • TP=The Palm Cabaret • RR=Act II - Red Room Cabaret • MS=Act II - Main Stage TICKETS & INFO: 222-4198 (10 am to 6 pm, Monday through Saturday)

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