Issue 900, July 4 - 10, 2014

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International MEXICO CANADA NAFTA

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July 4 - 10, 2014 Free Issue 900

Travel

whale sharks

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Art & Culture Tsitsiki PIÑAS

FR EE

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Photo courtesy of Riviera Nayarit

Visit the cleanest beaches in México - here in Riviera Nayarit

welcome 02

Friday July 4 - 10, 2014 PRESIDENT OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS Fernando Gonzalez Corona Director DAVID ROJO sjcbcs@yahoo.com.mx 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 salestribune@outlook.com Rebeca Castellón rebeca.castellonn@gmail.com Community Manager / Sales Julie Mongeau juliemongeau@gmail.com Designer Cynthia E. Andrade G. cisandra@vallartatribune.com cysandra@gmail.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 Immigration: 322.224.7719 322.290.0507 Consumer Protection: Fire Department: 01.800.468.8722 322.223.9476 Ambulance: 322.222.1533

Consulates American Consulate Nuevo Vallarta: 322.222.0069 24 hrs Guadalajara: 333.268.2145

Tourism Offices Jalisco: 322.221.2676 Nayarit: 322.297.1006

Canadian Consulate 322.293.2894 24 hrs: 1.800.706.2900

Editorial 03

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Friday July 4 - 10, 2014

Flowers of the Week

by Sandra Cesca

Golden Shower Tree Lluvia de Oro (Spanish) Cassia fistula

Editor´s Note

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won’t take all the blame but maybe, just maybe, I should have stayed home to watch the Mexico Holland game. What a nail biter! And I barely knew what was going on. For those of you deeply invested in the game I am sorry about the loss.

Moving on, I had a number of excellent responses to my call for contributors and we should be seeing those new articles starting next week.

We will have a health and wellness column, articles about local neighbourhoods and people, and a style and events column. There is still space to be filled. If you feel you have something engaging to contribute on a (semi) regular basis, I’d love to hear more. Shoot me an email and we can sort out the details.

This past weekend saw the 2nd Mama’s in PV event, this time held on the beach at Si Señor. By all accounts a huge success with lots of moms, kids and activities for everyone. I missed it because I was at Barcelo hotel for the graduation party for my son. It’s a big deal moving from 6th to 7th grade. Apparently.

Despite being an avid traveler I don’t stay at many All-Inclusives This one on Mismaloya Bay is blessed with a gorgeous natural setting, particularly with the recent rains springing the jungle back to life.

The resort was about what I would expect. Very family friendly.

The rooms appear to have been recently updated – tastefully. If you are looking for a great location to put your brother-in-law and his three children while they visit, this could be a good option.

As always there remains plenty to do despite the slower pace of the summer season. Consider reaching out to a local charity and finding out how you can make a difference in the lives of the many animals, children and families that could use your wisdom, your compassion and your money.

I know the PV SPCA is always looking for dog walkers and someone to help expand the free tours they offer. You can find a fairly comprehensive list of charitable organizations on page 20 of this week’s paper.

We are adjusting our distribution. You should be seeing more of us in the North side of the bay. If there is a spot we should be at but we’re just not, please send me an email and I’ll see what we can do.

Enjoy your weekend.

Madeline

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olden Rain. This national tree of Thailand is a popular ornamental growing to 60 feet and flowering in the late spring when the entire tree is covered with golden yellow aromatic flowers in pendulous racemes 15 inches long.

The 24 inch fruit pods contain pulp used in herbal medicine as a laxative and to treat problems of the respiratory and urinary tracts, diabetes, snake bites, tumors and

cancer. A syrup of the flowers helps constipation; a decoction of the leaves is used to treat gallstones and kidney disease. Topically, the leaves are used to treat wasp stings. The bark is used as an astringent.

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 and

Page in the Sun Bookstore. Information on her many walking tours can be found at: www.escaperoutevallarta.com.

Sterilization Clinics / PEACEAnimals July 2-5 Colonia Primero de Mayo Calle San Luis Potosi 355 Directions: From downtown towards Costco on Francisco Villa, turn right at Calle Vienna at corner where there is a Pemex Gas Station. Follow paved road up toward mountains past Kiosco, OXXO, Farmacia Benavides.

Keep going until the road dead ends and forces you to turn left.

Once you have taken the turn, the street changes from Vienna to San Luis Potosi. Follow it through the first intersection. Clinic will be in the second house on the left #355.

July 9-12 Colonia Emiliano ZapataVenustiano Carranza #491 (Colina clinic location), opposite carnicería Colín, one block after exiting

small tunnel that brings you into town.

July 16-19 San Vicente, Salón Ejidal July 23-26 Los Portales, Calle Villa Colonial, next to the new Presidencia (UMA: Unidad Municipal Administrativa) From the Blvd. Medina Ascencio turn at La Paloma Bullring. Go all the way in a straight line until the light, where you must make a right. The next big building on the right is the UMA and we will be right behind it.

July 30-2 Mojoneras (TBA) Schedule, including directions and other clinic information are on website: www.peaceanimals.org Peaceanimals has tax-deductible status in the u.S. and Canada. Re Canadian donations:

Dr. PoliWITH withVOLUNTEERS volunteersAT LA CRUZ CLINIC DR. POLI at La Cruz Clinic

NOBARS, a Canadian-based dog rescue organization, is able to process donations to PEACEAnimals without taking a commission.

Please contact: robin.nobars@ gmail.com Cost for one surgery week clinic is approximately $1,700 usd. Please consider making a donation.

ADORABLE DOG IN THE SPOTLIGHT...BONNIE & CLYDE

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onnie and Clyde, Basset Hounds, had been living with an elderly couple for many years. Due to health issues the family could no longer care for them so they were brought to our sanctuary. Bonnie is approximately a year and a half old, weighing 16 kilos or a bit over 35 pounds. Bonnie is just a sweetheart and very calm. She enjoys going for long walks.

Clyde loves to play and run but having experienced an injury to one paw, he can only do so in moderation.

Clyde is three years old and weighs 20 kilos or 44 pounds. Please contact us at spcapv@gmail.com.

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Friday July 4 - 10, 2014

Business Bites

First case of Chikungunya virus detected in Mexico

Word has it that BMW will be next to announce a new automotive plant in Mexico. Nissan and Daimler have just announced their plans to share a new factory in Aguascalientes.

Investments by some Chinese auto parts manufacturers are also anticipated, according to the Economy Secretariat.

The Mexican economy appears to be gaining traction, according to Reuters. Factory exports were up 1.3% in May over April, helped by a 3.18% increase in auto exports. Other data show retail sales were up in April, growing for the second month in a row.

The Japanese energy company Mitsui & Co. is “very interested” in investing in Mexico, its general manager of oil and gas development said this week.

“Mexico has good prospects, large energy reserves, easy access to almost anywhere in the world and free trade agreements with major economies,” said Yasuhiro Uchida.

“It also has a youg population that will boost growth in the future,” he told the Wall Street Journal.

Mitsui is particularly interested in the shale deposits near the border with Texas and deepwater reserves in the Gulf of Mexico. It signed a memorandum of agreement with Pemex last month.

Canada’s banks to report under FACTA

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inancial institutions in Canada will be required to ask all new and existing clients opening a new account questions such as where they were born, and possibly where their parents were born.

Those who indicate they have a connection to the U.S. will have their files sent to the Canada Revenue Agency — which will automatically pass them along to the IRS. Canadian citizens who decline to answer the new set of questions could have their personal banking information passed along to Uncle Sam to determine if they are a “U.S. person.” Or, the bank could refuse to open an account for those who refuse to answer the questions. All U.S. citizens and “resident aliens” (green card holders) are required to file U.S. taxes every year — regardless of where they live.

Eritrea is the only other country in the world with a similar law.

Accidental Americans

In 2010, the U.S. announced the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA), a law billed as an attempt to catch wealthy Americans stashing their money in offshore accounts. Critics quickly pointed out, however, the law

makes no distinction between those intentionally engaging in tax avoidance and “accidental Americans.”

It is estimated that one million U.S. citizens call Canada home, and while many are aware of the tax requirements that come with their dual citizenship, others are not. More of a surprise to some is that the U.S. automatically confers citizenship to the children of U.S. citizens, even if they are born abroad, and with that comes the obligation to file taxes.

Banks fought law and lost

Canada’s major banks and the association that represents them weren’t available to comment on the new rules and the impact customers might expect — but did direct CBC News to their websites for general information concerning the new law.

The banks, and former federal finance minister Jim Flaherty complained bitterly to the U.S. about FATCA in an effort to obtain an exception for Canada — but to no avail.

The U.S. is threatening a 30 per cent withholding tax against any financial institution deemed “non-compliant,” under FATCA. The Canadian government said

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.

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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

that “could have significant negative impacts on the Canadian economy.” After lengthy negotiations, Canada eventually signed an agreement with the U.S. and passed its provisions into law in the most recent Budget Implementation Act.

Law could face challenge

Experts say the requirement for banks to handle the files of Canadians with dual U.S. citizenship differently than other clients could violate the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, which protects Canadians from discrimination based on, among other things, “national or ethnic origin.”

The Office of Canada’s Privacy Commissioner says questions about the charter fall outside of its jurisdiction — but has expressed concern about FATCA violating privacy rights and laws.

In a written statement, the office noted information sharing for tax purposes between Canada and the U.S. is not new — however it “expects the Canada Revenue Agency to carry out its new responsibilities under FATCA in a way that meets its obligations under the Privacy Act.”

Chikungunya is an illness caused by a virus that spreads through mosquito bites. Symptoms of chikungunya include fever, headache, tiredness, nausea, vomiting, rash, and muscle or joint pain. Symptoms usually last for a few days to a few weeks, but some people may feel tired for several weeks. Chikungunya fever typically lasts from five to seven days and frequently causes severe and often incapacitating joint pain which sometimes persists for much longer periods. It is rarely life-threatening. There is no specific treatment for the disease but analgesics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication may be used to reduce the pain and swelling. Aspirin should be avoided.

The Health Secretariat of the State of Jalisco has confirmed the first Mexican case of a person infected with the chikungunya virus, on June 20, Health authorities diagnosed a woman in Guadalajara after she presented with chikungunya symptoms such as fever and joint pain, which are very similar to those of dengue fever.

Tests confirmed that she contracted the virus, apparently when she traveled to a sports competition last May in the island of Antigua and Barbuda, a Caribbean country that has seen cases of this rarely fatal disease.

The woman is under medical observation and in stable condition, the federal Health Secretariat reported on Thursday June 26th.

Who is at risk?

People who live in Asian, African, Central American or Caribbean countries are at risk of getting chikungunya. The mosquito that carries chikunguya can bite during the day and night, both indoors and outdoors, and often lives around buildings in urban areas.

Since 2004, millions of cases have occurred in countries near the Indian Ocean. From 2004 to 2009, 105 cases of chikungunya fever were reported in travelers returning to the United States.

What can you do to prevent Chikungunya?

There is currently no vaccine or medicine to prevent Chikungunya. You can protect yourself by preventing mosquito bites.

Prevent mosquito bites:

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.

• Use an appropriate insect repellent as directed.

• Higher percentages of active ingredient provide longer protection.

If you are bitten by mosquitoes:

• Avoid scratching mosquito bites.

• Apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce itching.

If you feel sick and think you may have Chikungunya: • Talk to your doctor or nurse if you feel seriously ill, especially if you have a fever. o Tell them exactly when you started to feel sick, and if you have been exposed to a mosquito crowded environment.

• Get lots of rest, and drink plenty of liquids.

• Avoid spreading the disease by preventing more mosquito bites.

Sources: http://www.who.int/ www.infolliteras.com Originally posted on yucatantimes.com

Source: http://www.cbc.ca/

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

The fall brings renewed vigour

to the mountains and rivers with the fresh rains and revived vegetation. No matter when you visit, Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit will share their wonders with you.

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

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Friday July 4 - 10, 2014

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Oxxo stores are everywhere and they continue to multiply Mexico among the top 20 most attrac-

Y

ou can’t go far in Mexico without seeing an Oxxo store, and you’ll be seeing even more of them as time goes by. Mexico’s largest convenience store chain and one of its most successful retailers, with 11,850 outlets in operation throughout the country and in Colombia, opens more than 1,000 new stores every year.

The reasons for its success, according to a report in El Financiero, are in logistics, rented locations and no franchises. It is seven times larger than its nearest competitor 7Eleven, and is in third place behind Walmart and Chedraui in terms of sales per square metre, a figure that comes in at more than 10,000 pesos.

And figures from the first quarter of this year show that those productivity numbers are growing faster than they are at the two big-box retailers, which actually recorded declines.

Launched in 1978, Oxxo is

owned by Femsa, proprietor of Coca-Cola Femsa and one of a handful of Mexican companies that have thrived internationally.

(MND, June 27) So what is Oxxo’s formula for success?

El Financiero asked some specialists for some clues: Oxxo is not a franchise. Most stores are operated under a commission contract and others directly, for the purpose of maintaining absolute control over products and service.

It has a real estate division.

This division is charged with identifying ideal locations and defining the expansion strategy based on population densities.

It currently has a very high density in the northern states with one store per 4,700 people; in the center of the country there is one for 14,000 inhabitants.

It doesn’t buy, it rents. The majority of its locations are rented.

Instead of investing in real estate, Oxxo prefers to invest its money

into opening a greater number of stores and begin to generate cash flow without making a bigger initial investment.

Logistics. With 16 distribution centers in Mexico it can work with suppliers who might have limited capacity for delivering products.

This permits a broader selection of goods.

Additional services. Customers can make credit card payments, pay for various services and buy cellular airtime.

Development of prepared products. It offers prepared foods of brands such as Andatti and Delixia and snacks such as those of Bitz, and the launch of O’Sabor and Saldazo debit cards which are linked to Banamex accounts.

Pharmaceutical products are another attraction. According to figures released by Femsa, each Oxxo store on average serves 759 customers a day.

Originally posted at www.mexicodalynews.com

Peña Nieto talks about reforms, migrants and US immigration with Charlie Rose

tive countries for foreign investment

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exico is back among the top 20 countries seen as most attractive for foreign investment, mainly because of the sale of Mexican brewery Modelo last year for US $18 billion, but also due to the Energetic and Telecommunications ongoing Reforms.

The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) reported that Mexico was in 12th place in 2013, with foreign direct investment (FDI) totalling $38 billion.

The amount paid by the Belgian brewer AB InBev for Modelo was just about equal to Mexico’s foreign direct investment

total in 2012.

In first place on the list is the United States with $188 billion, China is second with $124 billion and Russia third with $79 billion. The other Latin American economic powerhouse, Brazil, placed fifth with $64 billion in FDI, slightly down from the previous year. The agency forecasts that 2014 and 2015 will be good for Mexico because new investment will be attracted by energy and telecommunications reforms.

Globally the numbers were up by nine per cent, reversing last year’s decline.

Source: http://mexiconewsdaily.com/

Aduana Website for Checking Temporary Import Permit Status for Foreign Cars in Mexico

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resident Peña Nieto appeared on American television Juune 31st following a taped interview in Mexico City over the weekend with U.S. broadcast journalist Charlie Rose.

The president discussed the country’s politics, its economy and its future, as well as U.S. immigra-

tion reform and the movement of thousands of child migrants from Central America.

According to Bloomberg, Pena Nieto said that while the economic changes his administration has passed should create more opportunities in Mexico, the U.S. should pursue immigration

Explore Banderas Bay Walking Tours Take a tour through Puerto Vallarta’s Historic Downtown to learn about this city’s rich history, famous people, architecture, and cultural and ecological heritage; all this on an easy to

moderate two-hour stroll led by a certified guide.

Tours leave from the Municipal Tourism Office every Tuesday and Wednesday at 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m and Saturdays at 9:00 a.m.

changes and it would be an “injustice” not to recognize immigrants’ contributions to the U.S. economy.

He didn’t specify which steps the U.S. should take in overhauling its immigration laws. The interview can be seen at Bloomberg TV. Originally posted on www.

Mexicodailynews.com

s regular guest author in the past here on Yucalandia, Lic. Spencer McMullen offers foreigners some of the best information and legal services to the expat community in Mexico.

Today, Lic. McMullen describes a new Aduana website for checking the status of Temporary Import Permits (TIPs) for foreign-plated cars in Mexico. Without further ado, here’s Spencer’s good report: After some time and errors the past few months, Aduana’s web site is now working, allowing one to check issuance of vehicle import permits online. You can check with the temporary import permit number or VIN number and

passport number to get details of the permit issuance date and expiration date. https://portalsat.plataforma. sat.gob.mx/…_internet/index. aspx I don’t think this is necessarily good news as Aduana has been sloppy with their extensions and immigration has been giving people their new immigration cards with dates of a few weeks to a few months before people receive them thereby making the 15 day notification period impossible to comply with.

YucaLandia/Surviving Yucatan. © Steven M. Fry

Shopping in the Zona Romantica – this charming neighbourhood is also called Old Town and is a popular residential area for expats and Mexican families. Along the main streets you will find shops galore, filled with wonderful authentic crafts, clothing,

jewelry, excellent restaurants, spas, theaters and more.

Vibrant and friendly, this area offers an excellent day or two (or more!) of exploring. Close to Los Muertos beach, consider ending your day with a sunset margarita at any of the many beachfront restaurants.

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

Once the sun has set, the

RIVIERA NAYARIT 06

Friday July 4 - 10, 2014

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Riviera Nayarit is leader in clean beaches

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ith an additional four new Clean Beaches, two more re-certified beaches and another four that are still certified, the Riviera Nayarit takes the lead in clean beach destinations in Mexico with 10 out of a total of 31 certifications.

The Riviera Nayarit considerably increased its number of Certified Clean Beaches from six to 10, thanks to the four new beaches that were certified on June 26th by the Instituto Mexicano de Normalización y Certificación (IMNC by its acronym in Spanish). This occurred during the 10th Clean Beach Conference that took places in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco. The National Water Commission (Conagua, by its acronym in Spanish) led the inauguration, accompanied by other governments and branches having to do with the topic at hand.

The four new certified beaches include Palladium at Punta de Mita; Platanitos in Banderas Bay; Costa Capomo Becerros in Compostela and El Borrego in San Blas. These helped the Riviera Nayarit to take the lead, placing it at the top of the list of domestic destinations with certified clean beaches.

Los Muertos in Sayulita and Vallarta Norte II were also

recertified during the event. The beaches at Nuevo Vallarta Sur, Nuevo Vallarta Norte I and Bucerías in Banderas Bay, as well as Chacala in Compostela, still retain their certification.

Pronatura Mexico also recertified the beach at Nuevo Vallarta Norte with the Blue Flag, awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). There are a total of 11 Blue Flag beaches in Mexico.

Within Mexico there are 31 Certified Clean Beaches divided among nine states, with Quintana Roo in second place with five. The Riviera Nayarit now boasts 32

percent of the clean beaches in the country.

These Clean Beach certifications are awarded based on the NMX-AA-120-SCFI-2006 guidelines established by the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (Semarnat by its acronym in Spanish).

These results have been made possible through the participation of three levels of government, a non-profit association and local businesses. They serve to strengthen the positioning of the Riviera Nayarit, making it more attractive to both domestic and international tourists.

Riviera Nayarit is “the hottest new destination” in Mexico

S

o it was described by the UK’s Mail Online, the web component of the Daily Mail newspaper, in a recent article showcasing the destination’s world-class spas, endless beaches, luxury and the good taste of celebrities such as Kim Kardashian.

The wide variety of possibilities offered by the Riviera Nayarit as a tourism destination continues to gain positioning wherever its attractions are known. In Europe, it’s already being touted as “the hottest new destination” in Mexico.

This was confirmed by the website Mail Online, cyber-sister to the Daily Mail newspaper. This

site is one of the most important and most influential sites in the UK and the English-speaking regions of Europe and the world at large, with 179,822,518 unique visitors on a monthly basis.

The article titled “Why Riviera

Explore Banderas Bay 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

Nayarit is Mexico’s Hottest Destination” gives a list of reasons why.

According to the article published on June 19th, the destination’s world class spas, endless beaches and the largest and most modern yacht marina in Mexico

are enough, though they go on to say that “if it’s good enough for Kim and Kanye…” in reference to the celebrities’ recent visit, a nod to the destination’s popularity among the rich and famous.

From the article: “Mexico’s hippest new destination, Riviera Nayarit, stretches along 192 miles of pristine Pacific coast framed by the majestic Sierra Madre Mountains.

The region (offers) chic luxury resorts as well as eco-tourism boutique hotels.”

“The region extends along the entire coast of the Pacific state of Nayarit including the resorts of Nuevo Vallarta, the historic colo-

nial town of San Blas, exclusive Punta Mita, picturesque fishing villages, miles of serene beaches and spectacular Banderas Bay.” The article was published on the site without any direct intervention on the part of the destination, something that’s happening more and more often as a result of the constant public relations efforts undertaken by the the Riviera Nayarit in its different target markets.

This type of support is very welcome and is a great aid to continue filling the new weekly flights out of Manchester and London to the Vallarta-Nayarit international airport.

the surfers mecca of Nayarit.

A funky town with a wonderful protected beach, this laid-back town has a hippie vibe with the organic cafes and the yoga studios to prove it.

Visit the Huichol Cultural Centre for some wonderful hand-made 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

LOCAL 07

Friday July 4 - 10, 2014

Wanderings on Olas Altas

Paradise and Parenting

By Poncho Davalos alfonso@tropicasa.com

Leza Warkentin

Summer Revelations

Activity not exclusive to girls

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have been on summer vacation for exactly 22 and a half hours and I have already made some amazing discoveries about my children. It’s not that I don’t normally spend time with them each day during the school year.

However, with ALL of our hours spent together now, and with the prospect of so very many (many) more to go, I am faced with all of the little quirks and qualities of their wonderfully intricate personalities. Such as: 1) They talk. They talk a lot.

They talk about things I know about, but mostly about things that I do not. They talk about them as though I do know, and, to be honest, I usually pretend that I do.

Because what do I really need to know about the Pixelmon mod in order to listen to my son discuss why it seems to be glitching?

2) If they aren’t talking, they are singing. They sing songs that

they make up all by themselves, and they each sing their own made-up songs at the same time, usually when I am behind the wheel. My husband tells me that it means they are happy. I think it’s nice that he is such a glasshalf-full kind of guy. It’s better than my suspicion that they are trying to disorient me enough to run the car into the side of Ley’s (they want a new car, but believe strongly in child-labor laws).

3) They don’t stand still unless they are standing directly in front of my grocery cart.

4) Anything that I can think of to tire them out so that they will go to sleep early will tire me out much faster. And then I will be tired AND listening to them talk and/or sing.

5) They will not get along except for the sole purpose of presenting a united front against me.

6) They don’t know where the 7 laundry baskets are. Even though they are positioned conveniently around the house in the remote chance that they could catch an item or two of clothing that is flung

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

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

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ately I’ve doing an extra activity after my shift that I’ve found interesting and fun at the same time. I’m sure you’ve heard about Pole Fitness? In the beginning I thought was just exclusively for girls but when I did my research I found some cities around Mexico where they have mixed classes or even just for guys, the challenge was to find the place to do it in Vallarta.

Finally, after asking where I can practice pole fitness? and being faced with people looking at me strangely I found a studio located close to Costco. When I arrived I still thought pole fitness was just spinning around the pole and doing some tricks. But is not.

Part of what makes Pole Dancing so great is the workout.

You will get firmed, toned, and seeing results much faster than a traditional weight or resistance workout program. By nature girls have the force on the legs and guys is in their arms, but for both balance comes from the abdomen.

Guys if you want to have a summer beach body you should try this activity. This fun activity won-t keep you in the gym all day or doing the same boring routines.

Talking with the trainer I asked

her about the benefits you’ll get.

It doesn’t matter if you are a guy or a girl.

As I mentioned before you’ll get firmed and toned, but it also makes you feel more comfortable with yourself. It increases your self-confidence; every class always is a challenge. Improve your balance, coordination and concentration.

It’s fun and you don’t need to be a professional - just be open to learning new things.

I don’t recommend to try Pole Fitness by yourself with a youtube tutorial. Being honest in every step, spin, and upside down splits needs guidance.

In the meantime, while you are thinking if you really want to practice pole fitness, let me tell you ACT LGBT AC will be having their monthly networking session next July 15th at Signature Lounge bar starting at 5:50 to 7:30. For more information for this and other events, like their Facebook page ACT LGBT A.C. This event is open to all the public, you don’t need to be gay or have a gay business.

Guys and girls see you around Olas Altas, for more information about pole fitness or ACT LGBT events please feel free to contact me at Alfonso@tropicasa.com

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

Art Galleries – It is said there are more galleries per capita in Puerto Vallarta than any other place in Mexico. Many of these galleries are along the side

streets that run through Centro.

Stop at the Tourism Office in the Main Plaza for a map or take advantage of their free walking tour. Many galleries carry high quality local crafts, established Mexican and international artists and more.

Volunteer - There are many

randomly from a child’s body.

7) They are hungry all the time except for the times that meals are painstakingly prepared for them in a hot kitchen. I can’t keep up with the demand for cold cereal.

8) They are bored but do not want to leave the house. And everyone (except me) feels that it is my responsibility to do something about it. Personally, I think that most of my ideas are fantastic.

However, in all honesty they are usually work projects disguised as fun activities, and are uniformly disdained. I hereby resign as the entertainment director.

9) They think I am quite old and suddenly less informative than I was even one short summer ago. I was telling them about the horses and wagons used by our ancestors around 100 years ago and my daughter said “They used horses and wagons in the 80’s?”

Clearly this indicates that math classes ended a few weeks too early. And also that I am considered a centenarian.

After all these revelations, I decided to take a morning off in quiet contemplation. In other words, I went to WOW Facial Bar for an under-eye treatment.

I go there because it’s tranquil, and because everyone there is nice to me.

Also, they use treatments like aromatherapy, neck massage, and today, a heavy hand with the anti-wrinkle cream on the area between my eyebrows. I feel refreshed, rejuvenated, much closer to 75, and, what’s more, ready to sing my own darn song.

Charming tranquility in the mountains San Sebastian del Oeste, Jalisco

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his magical town was officially recognized as a Pueblo Magico in 2012.

Originally settled in 1605, this secluded 17th century mining town reached its peak of prosperity in the 1700s, when over 30,000 people inhabited the area.

Over the years, the town’s population fluctuated wildly as gold and silver were mined intermittently between the 1600’s and the 1930’s.

A historic town with a rich past, this once booming mining town was the second city in Mexico to get electricity. Although those gold rush years are long gone and settlers have since moved on, this beautiful mountain village of just 600 residents has kept its true colonial heritage.

A shining example of an ancient Mexican village and well known for its corn and cattle trade, San Sebastian is now cultivating coffee and agave in its lush mountainsides. It was also home to Hollywood celebrities and today is a haven for Guadalajarans and Puerto Vallartans looking for tranquil nature and a respite from the summer heat.

The white and red buildings, cobblestone roads, stone bridges and stunning mountain vistas transport visitors to a time before iphones and flatscreen tv’s. But don’t worry, there is wifi in the town plaza and at most of the restaurants and hotels.

The town continues to grow with the inauguration of the new business association. There are approximately ten hotels and twenty restaurants. Freshly prepared meals made from local ingredients, flaky pastries from the Italian bakery and warm, rich

cups of coffee will give you the energy to spend the day exploring the town and surrounding hills and a couple raicillas will mellow you out after a long day.

How to Get There From Puerto Vallarta take Highway 70 north past the airport.

Watch for signs but as long as you stay straight you can’t get lost.

The trip takes about an hour and a half. It’s 60kms of often single lane highway that winds through the farmland of the Ameca Valley, through the jungles, to the sierras of pine and oak forests at about 1,500 meters above sea level.

The air can be a little thin but it’s humidity free which is a blessing in the summer heat.

Enjoy the culinary tradition of this destination, offering treats such as huitlacoche stewed with onions and spices, or mixed platters that include a stuffed chili pepper, gordita, machaca and nance flavoured aguas frescas.

And you can’t ignore the “chocorraiz”, a chocolate drink with “Raicilla” (a local moonshine) and, for desert, enjoy peaches with rompope and cinnamon.

Above all, take advantage of nature’s generosity, offering guavas, lemons, plantains, oranges, peaches, arrayan and “faisan” berries.

To truly enjoy the local fruits visit now.

Hotel Real de San Sebastian

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rriving at San Sebastian you can breathe a totally different atmosphere than any other town.

Here where time has stopped offers visitors the quintessential Mexican experience where you can hear the birds singing and the laughter of children on the streets.

The Hotel Real De San Sebastian is a large house located in the famous Triangle Street, with just 4 rooms, this tranquil escape offers warmth, personal attention and privacy for visitors.

The restaurant Los Arrayanes is located within the hotel to offer guests a variety of dishes from Jalisco.

The smell of wood dominates the place and conveys a sense of freshness and simplicity to our guests. In honour of the history of San Sebastian, there are several antique objects that bring your attention to the nostalgic past.

ROOMS

Madroño Enjoy this large room with a King size bed and two double beds in a spacious and comfortable room with mountain views from your balcony. It has a fireplace, a lounge and table games. Sleeps 6 people Cost per night: $ 1,600 MXN Coaste Comate Romance beckons in this King size room. Dimly lit, simple decoration with large bath

and Jacuzzi make this a comfortable place to find privacy and relaxation.

Sleeps 2 people Cost per night: $ 720 MXN Juaquiniquil Offering a double bed this is a small and cozy room overlooking the garden. Recommended for couples or solo travelers.

Cost per night: $ 510 MXN Maximum 2 people

Chicalote Relax in this comfortable room with a king size bed. Full of light, and beautiful rustic and ecological details.

Cost per night: $ 700MXN In the morning we offer a wake-up call accompanied by coffee, chocolate or tea with pastries. $150mxn per extra person Children under 10 are free.

High in the mountains, only one hour from Puerto Vallarta, San Sebastiรกn offers a different experience.

Cool mountain air, tranquil nature and historical charm await you.

Lรณpez Mateos Nยบ 15, downtown San Sebastiรกn del Oeste, Jalisco Tel. (322) 297 2854 losarcosdelsol@gmail.com www.losarcosdelsol.com

Friday July 4 - 10, 2014

INTERNATIONAL 10

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Working together, Canada and Mexico are maximizing the NAFTA advantage

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hrough participation in the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), Canada and Mexico have become more than trade partners; the countries have strengthened their relations in all fields to become strategic partners who are now working together to further success on the international stage.

Twenty years ago, NAFTA was considered by many to be bold and ahead of its time. Now, much has changed because of this agreement –it has transformed North America from a geographical location on the map, to an integrated North American platform for trade and economic growth within the continent, and also a powerful trading force with the rest of the world.

Such was its success that in little less than one generation, NAFTA has become part of our vocabulary. This is the ‘NAFTA generation’, a generation that does not know any other way of life, and perhaps does not fully realize that it is because of NAFTA that we have the opportunities we do today: good jobs, benefits to consumers of higher-quality, lower-priced products, and greater market efficiencies that enhance our global competitiveness.

We have all benefited from NAFTA, as businesses continually work to create global value chains which make our North American region among the most competitive in the world.

Since NAFTA, Canada and Mexico’s bilateral merchandise trade has grown more than six times –surpassing 30 billion USD last year. And, according to the Government of Mexico, Canada is the fourth largest foreign investor in Mexico.

Companies from both countries –representing all sectors of our economies– have found success within NAFTA environment, among these we find Bombardier (including Bombardier Recreational Products), Scotiabank, Goldcorp, La Costeña, TransCanada, Apotex, MABE, Modelo, Palliser Furniture, Magna, Linamar, CP Rail, Canadian National (CN), and NewGold.

Canadian companies and their subsidiaries have injected wealth into the Mexican economy

through the creation of good jobs, innovation, and downstream supply chain investments. Canada’s attractiveness as an investment destination is increasingly drawing the attention of Mexican companies as well.

The benefits for our countries are not just for the big companies; small and medium sized companies have also benefited from increased trade and investment opportunities and integration into supply chains.

Most Canadian companies with investments in Mexico have fully integrated their Mexican production platform into their global strategy. Fully-integrated manufacturing across the continent allows individual enterprises to become more competitive globally and to participate in a globally-competitive supply chain.

NAFTA established a framework with rules to create more certainty and predictability for our trade and investment. It laid the groundwork for our future integration and has contributed to our economic growth over the last twenty years.

Nevertheless, we have moved beyond our original goals of trading; we have moved from three countries merely exchan-

ging goods and services to a region that makes things together.

Our ‘North American products’, the ones that Canada, the US and Mexico make together, are now exported globally.

We have aircrafts partly made in Mexico, then exported to the US for further assembly, and transported to Canada to create a finished product for sale within our three countries as well as in the global marketplace. In fact, our markets have become so integrated, that it can be nearly impossible to determine where a car is from in North America.

During the production process, products cross our borders several times before they are finished and ready to be sold.

The negotiators of NAFTA recognized that a trade and economic relationship is not simply based on the engagement of high level officials, but also on the meeting of peoples – built by businesses, investors, entrepreneurs, consumers, academic institutions, and societies in daily cross-border exchanges between Canada, the US and Mexico.

Our people-to-people ties have been enhanced, and Canada and Mexico have shown that they are effective and lucrative business

partners in the North American platform. This has been, and will continue to be, the key to our collective success in a globally competitive market. We have shown that there is an advantage to working together, building on our complementary strengths and skills.

So, what will North America look like in two or three generations? I think we will find that several common threads bind us together as we work to create prosperity and well-being for our citizens in a dynamic world economy. Our cooperation has not reached its peak and the best is yet to come.

Trade, borders, and infrastructure are areas where we are poised to move forward and provide an environment for our citizens to prosper as we look into the future. We can achieve this by facilitating border trade, promoting continental investment, collaborating in innovation, and increasing the alignment of our regulations.

Regionally, Mexico is already actively working with its neighbors further south on these goals.

Mexico is a founding member of the Pacific Alliance –a framework agreement to consolidate further

integration, strengthen bilateral relations, deepen commercial and trade exchanges, and intensify cooperation and investment flows between the countries of the Alliance, as well as with third markets.

As an active and highly-interested observer in the Pacific Alliance, Canada strongly believes that alliances like this one create prosperity in the Americas for all members. Mexico was, from the beginning, very enthusiastic about extending Canada an invitation to become an observer in the Pacific Alliance, and Canada welcomes Mexico’s support.

Beyond our own hemisphere, Canada and Mexico are also working together to maintain and grow North America’s active participation in the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP). Canada has been deeply involved in the negotiations alongside Mexico as we work together to develop a 21st century agreement that advances our shared economic interests.

As Prime Minister Stephen Harper stated at the North American Leaders’ Summit in Toluca, Estado de México, in February 2014, all three governments agree that there is enormous potential to build on the success of NAFTA in new ways.

Our countries will continue to work to advance our mutual competitiveness through initiatives such as a North American Transportation Plan, North American Trusted Traveler Program, and facilitated border management and regulatory cooperation.

The relationships forged through the tireless work to open markets and create partnerships

by ProMéxico and the Government of Canada will carry us forward into the future. We look forward to working closely with Mexico and taking advantage of all that NAFTA has to offer, and continue our strong partnership as we build the trade and investment world of the 21st century together.

“Our cooperation has not reached its peak and the best is yet to come. Trade, borders, and infrastructure are areas where we are poised to move forward and provide an environment for our citizens to prosper as we look into the future.”

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

Vallarta Shopping Directory News

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he Vallarta Shopping Directory is the best and most complete guide on the internet where new visitors and residents can find the top dining and shopping spots in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

There are 19 pages of categories such as boutiques, jewelry stores, handicraft shops, art galleries, cafes, restaurants, beauty shops and spas, organic and specialty food, tours and travel agencies, boutique hotels, real estate offices, florists, sportswear, services, opticians, interior décor, leather goods, glassware, tile, bars and entertainment.

Each listing contains the logo of the business, address, contact information, link to their website and Facebook pages, a description and photos of their products and services.

Since the directory is always

kept up to date you won´t waste time searching for businesses that have closed or moved away.

A good idea is to keep a copy on your computer desktop for quick reference for telephone numbers and hours that businesses are open, and to find new places that have just opened. Go to http://vallartashoppingdirectory. blogspot.com and browse through the pages.

There is also a Facebook page connected to the direct o r y — w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / vallartashoppingdirectory.

If you would like your business to be included in this online directory please email puertovallartashoppingguide@gmail.comfor more information, and if you would like to have an ad like those below for Elements of Design, Galleria Dante, Cassandra Shaw, Galeria Vallarta, Colibri, Nacho Daddy,

Faith Colletiva, Bumerang, Patricia Gawle Arte, DiVino Dante, Vallarta Food tours and Los Bambinos you can contact juliemongeau@gmail. com for more information about their very reasonable prices. This page is exclusively for members of the Vallarta shopping directory.

Remember the Vallarta Tribune is the only English newspaper distributed both in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit.

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

LOCAL 14

Friday July 4 - 10, 2014

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New director for PV Men’s Chorus

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ow! A new look. A new sound. A strong, vibrant community bringing compelling musical shows to add to Puerto Vallarta’s growing entertainment repertoire. With this vision, Puerto Vallarta Men’s Chorus is proud to present our new artistic director, Alfonso López. With an extensive musical background, Alfonso enthusiastically joins the Chorus with both vision and experience.

A graduate of The University of Texas-Pan American with a Master’s in Vocal Performance (Summa Cum Laude – with highest honors), he went on to become a music professor at UTPA. He told PVMC president, Richard Canter, “I had the delight of being the Musical Director and Choir Conductor for the staged musicals both in the Theatre and Music Departments.” This multi-talented bass-baritone has sung in operas, acted on stage, conducted youth choirs, taught vocal lessons; and was the musical director, vocal director, and arranger for the talented live band at Opera Teatro Bar in Texas, where they perform

music from Opera to International Popular Music. El Señor López has more than 80 shows under his musical belt.

What is his vision for the Puerto Vallarta Men’s Chorus?

“To be known throughout México,” he states with a soft smile, but he is serious and has a plan for achieving his goal.

Is that all? “No, there’s more; I want to create excitement in our audience and our singers. I’m not supposed to,” again his quiet smile, “but I love looking at the audience to see if they are enjoying the show as much as the performers are enjoying presenting it.”

He understands why PVMC sings. It’s just to provide entertainment, right? “No, again, it’s more than that; the mission, the reason for the Chorus’ existence, is to help gay people gain acceptance from their family, friends, and colleagues. When people attend PVMC performances, they will observe joyful gay men, singing together.

Perhaps some will alter their vision, or perhaps some will

begin to understand that we are all human, and simply another part of the world community.”

As PVMC welcomes Alfonso López, the Chorus would like to recognize the contribution of their retiring artistic director, Bob Bruneau. “One of my proudest accomplishments has been to co-found the Puerto Vallarta Men’s Chorus with my longtime friend, Joyce Ericson,” Bob says.

“Our goal was to create a bilingual, cross-cultural chorus. And now the climate is right for an artistic director fluent in Spanish and English, so I have moved aside to allow this to happen. I love our chorus, and will be singing and supporting them whenever I can.”

PVMC shares the excitement of both Bob and Alfonso and looks forward to a season of growth, opportunity, and fabulous, fun music.

Híjole! Wow! How can someone join the Chorus? “We are a gay men’s chorus,” says Alfonso, “so you would need to be male, and gay or gay-friendly.

PVMC will be auditioning new

singers beginning with our July rehearsals so check our website, www.pvmenschorus.org.

We also welcome volunteers of any gender.”

Beautifying Vallarta!

News from the P.V. Garden Club

Sites Marina

El Tigre Villa For Sale Located on the 10th Tee

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

www.remaxinpv.com

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irst, we want to acknowledge that our work as a club is only as effective as the partnership we build with the city and its residents. Eduardo Garcia Joya, Oficio de Turismo PV, is now our best ally and has been very helpful. He organized the work of the employees of Parque y Jardines to prune some of our trees on Basilio Badillo.

They did a great job and it was necessary to be a bit more drastic when it came to pruning. We planted Primavera Trees there several years ago, having been told that the electrical wiring would be underground when the trees reached maturity. We are still hopeful this will happen some time soon, but until then, we need to assure the trees and bougainvillea are in proportion.

“The Pier Street”, Francisca Rodriguez, is a work in progress. We are investigating how much it would cost to finish the street using the same pattern that currently exists in front of Archie’s Wok. The benches have been privately commissioned by an artist, Natasha Moraga and add character to the street.

Eduardo also has plans to install artwork parallel to the Malecon so people have an additional incentive to frequent the shops there.

For those of us involved in beautifying Vallarta it is wrenching to depart, but a good percentage of our board remains in PV most of the summer. We are monitoring the status of the new plantings on Francisca Rodriguez and assisting our gardener who continues to work for us.

A meeting next week will be convened to discuss among other items, a proposal for Pulpito Plaza, recent vandalism of one of the trees and bougainvillea plantings on Insurgentes and the concern over previous vandalism, tile sponsors for the pier street, and plans for the club this Fall.

REAL ESTATE 15

Friday July 4 - 10, 2014

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A History of Financing in Mexico

By Ryland Apsy

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ortgages in Mexico are a relatively new occurrence all things considered. In fact, it has only been since 2005 that a foreigner could actually finance a purchase in Mexico.

Until 2005 and the inception of GE Capital & Silvergate bank, all buyers simply paid cash. A quick glance at data on the MLS dating back from 2005 until now will indicate that the vast majority of buyers have paid cash. That data considers land, condos & houses in all price points. Certain segments of the market do have a higher volume of buyers seeking financing than others, namely the $100,000 to the $700,000 price point. The last complete year of data that can be used was 2011 as the mortgage product was consistent that year. Information garnered from BBVA/Compass (primary funding source for 2011) and the MLS Los Cabos showed that less than 10% of all transactions utilized mortgages that year.

In the 9 year cycle from when mortgages began until now, there has been a whirlwind of activity on the banking side of things, which is to be expected as that is the entire period during which the worldwide financial crisis occurred.

With all of our mortgage product originating in US dollars and coming from US banks bar Scotiabank, we rode the wave just like the entire US mortgage market did. Mexico saw an influx of lenders in 2005, 2006 and early 2007 which was followed by a fast withdrawal of many of those lenders, both big names and small, when the financial markets turned. The longest lasting players in our market were; GE Capital which funded loans from late 2005 until mid 2009;

BBVA/Laredo which changed its name to BBVA/Compass from 2006 – 2012 and; Scotiabank from 2007 – 2012. Their rates varied anywhere from 6% - 9.5% depending on the bank, loan term, down payment, credit score and if the borrower had a fixed or adjustable loan. Those that chose adjustable loans are very grateful as almost all of them adjusted only once a year when the fixed period was over based on the 1 yr LIBOR plus 3.5%. In layman’s terms, if you had a 30 year mortgage with a 5 year fixed rate @ 7.5% in 2009, the fixed period is almost over and your loan is just about to adjust to the 1 year LIBOR (currently .55%) plus 3.5% which totals 4.05% for the next year.

That equates to more than a 35% savings on the monthly payment. When these programs were created no one foresaw the 1 year LIBOR (index – google for clarification) going this low, but EVERY borrower who took out

an adjustable mortgage in Mexico from 2005 – 2012 has payments that have, or soon will be, sliced dramatically.

Of course, there are many opinions on why our lenders experienced turbulence in our market.

It is important to note that every lender had a different set of rules which allowed a client to qualify for their product.

Some were stricter than others and thus had a different risk level and as such, a different rate of default and foreclosure. Information garnered from Genworth Financial in August 2013 highlighted the rate of payout for the companies they provided private mortgage insurance for. They were GE Capital, GMAC and BBVA. Their product insures the lender for the difference between the foreclosed sale amount and the loan amount, basically insuring the lender for the loan they give to the borrower.

This insurance was paid by

the borrower as part of their monthly payment. Their rate of payout was high for the Mexico market, but according to Genworth’s rep, no higher than any other market they were operating in at that time, which leads one to believe it cannot be because of an unusually high rate of foreclosure.

The fact is, lending of any kind internationally is always considered high risk which is why interest rates have always been high here when compared to the US or Canada.

We have just come through a cycle during which lenders discontinued all of their high risk lending both locally and internationally and as such small products like the cross border Mexico product simply get sliced off the product line with all other high risk products in an effort to “cease the bleeding”.

Also, real estate values need to remain firm in order for banks to consider collateralizing that real

estate and we have just come through a period where values have been unstable.

The effects of this are that from 2012 May – 2013 September, it was simply not possible for a foreigner residing in the US or Canada to finance a purchase in Mexico as there were no institutions willing to lend.

The good news is there is now a renewed interest in the Mexico market by certain lending groups and the first new products have begun to trickle in.

Prices are firming up which creates a better asset to collateralize, bank portfolios are strengthening and there is an overflow of capital in the USA that banks and financial institutions have not started lending yet.

Many say the 3rd and 4th quarter of 2014 will bring news.

For now, interest rates remain high and real estate prices low with both markets strengthening daily. www.mexicocapitalmortgage.com

TRAVEL 16

Friday July 4 - 10, 2014

World’s biggest fish arriving in waters of Quintana Roo

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t’s whale shark season in coastal waters of Quintana Roo, where environmental authorities are being vigilant to make sure whalewatchers and others respect the species’ habitat.

The season began May 16, which marks the time the world’s largest known fish arrives in search of plankton, their favorite source of food. It represents a spectacular natural attraction for visitors, domestic and international.

“This species likes to swim on the surface of warm water in those places where there are flows of colder, nutrient-rich water since these conditions favour the growth of the plankton they eat, says the director of the Tiburón Ballena (Whale Shark) Biosphere Reserve, Francisco Remolina Suárez.

In an interview with Excélsior, he explained that a special zone was created to exclude large boats and protect the whale sharks after many suffered injuries due to accidents involving man and fish.

Cruise ships and freighters now steer clear of the area, which has become popular among whalewatchers.

This is a particularly popular time to visit among Europeans,

says the mayor of Lázaro Cárdenas, and that thousands of visitors will stay on Isla de Holbox, which sees a 100% occupancy rate in local hotels during the whale shark season, which runs till September 15.

Visitors can observe and swim with the fish. Whalewatching is regulated, and operators of the whalewatching boats are trained and the number of trips is controlled.

The municipal tourism office on Isla Mujeres estimates that up to 400 whale sharks will arrive to swim in the waters of the Yucatán peninsula, 200 of which will be seen around the islands of Holbox and Contoy.

The whale shark is considered an endangered species.

They are typically 14 meters long but can measure up to 20 meters and weigh as much as 25 tonnes.

They have little in common with conventional whales, apart from their size.

They move relatively slowly and they eat by filtering large quantities of water and retaining a wide variety of plankton and zooplankton. www.Mexicodailynews.com

www.vallartatribune.com

Friday July 4 - 10, 2014

INTERNATIONAL 17

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What’s the meaning of Independence Day?

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or Americans worldwide this weekend will see fireworks, BBQ’s and lots of stars and stripes. It’s the Fourth of July weekend. We’re supposed to be celebrating Independence Day. But what makes this day special? What gives the Fourth of July its significance is that the Declaration of Independence was adopted by the Continental Congress in 1776.

It was in Philadelphia, and the signers of that document, composed by Thomas Jefferson, knew that this declaration of independence from the dictatorial rule of Great Britain might also be — literally — their death sentence.

They knew full well that the wrath and might of the British army would be sailing across the Atlantic to descend on the relatively defenseless colonies.

They knew their scattered “states” didn’t have the numbers or arms or training to stand against the British, much less defeat them militarily. Yet they put their signatures, and their lives, their families, their destiny, on that parchment.

And so, against all odds, and even against reason, that Declaration told the world that “these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent states.”

The only importance of the 4th day of July, then, is that it marks the birth of the United States of America.

The very words should send awe-filled shivers up your spine, as they do mine.

Most of the people living in those colonies had simply had enough of British domination, of working and virtually existing at the pleasure of a king they didn’t know and who obviously considered them his indentured servants.

They wanted to be free, to make their own decisions, to govern themselves and breathe the sweet air of liberty.

The first celebration of American Independence took place four days later in Philadelphia, where the Continental Congress was still meeting.

The ceremony began with a public reading of the Declaration of Independence. Then, from the tower of the State House, now called Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell rang out.

The coat of arms of the king of England was taken down.

And there was a parade. And

cannons boomed. The people, though aware of what lay ahead, cheered! A new nation sprang to life.

That’s what this day is meant to be about.

John Adams, himself a signer of the Declaration, thought that Americans should henceforth celebrate a “great anniversary festival.” In a letter to his wife Abigail he wrote, “It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forevermore.”

So it began. A more elaborate celebration was held there in 1788, after the new Constitution had been ratified. Then there was a much larger parade, speeches and a dinner.

But between those two celebrations, in 1776 and 1788, there was much horrible fighting, rivers of bloodshed, the deaths and bankruptcies of many of the signers of the Declaration, families torn apart and businesses and farms destroyed. The freedoms declared by the Declaration — and ushered into fact by the Constitution — were secured at a terrible cost.

Soon, across the growing nation, at sunrise on July 4, salutes were fired and bells were rung. Flags were flown from buildings, from homes, and along the streets.

Shop windows were decorated with red, white, and blue. Churches held special services.

What’s Independence Day like today? Do most people you know actually make time to purposely celebrate our independence in meaningful ways?

Even while we’re again locked in a deadly combat on foreign soil — still involving hundreds

of thousands of our finest young men and women?

What are they fighting for now?

Is it anything like what motivated our Revolutionary Army?

Is it “freedom from religion,” the necessity to take “under God” out of our pledge, or even to do away with it altogether? Is it the “right” to end the lives of unwanted babies, or the “right” for two men or two women to “marry”?

Or is it still the impossible dream of a nation under God, with unalienable rights endowed equally to all — among these life, liberty and

the pursuit of happiness?

Surely this weekend is a time for all of us who really cherish that original dream, the one for which so many have died, to individually and collectively re-declare our independence from tyranny, despotism, taxation without representation, and debts that no free society should ever bear.

And allegiance to the blood-bought foundation of government of, by, and for the people . . . people who are determined to live free. www.newsmax.com

ART & CULTURE 18

Friday July 4 - 10, 2014

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Tsitsiki, the Piñas of Michoacan

by Tom Swanson and Marianne Menditto

www.ColibriDesignVallarta.com www.GaleriaColibri.blogspot.com

O

ne of our favorite forms of folk art comes from a tiny village in the mountains of Michoacán, so small that it is not on any of the road maps. Located on the north slope of a pine-covered mountain that rises to nearly 3,000 meters, San José de Gracia shares this slope with the famous artesania villages of Patambán and Ocumicho, the latter, famous for the wild and mythical caricatures molded of clay and finished with brightly colored paints. Still, San José holds its own.

The history of glazed ceramics goes back to the colonial times.

Bishop Quiroga, fondly known to the locals as Tata Vasco, or grandfather Vasco, brought the art of glazing pottery from the old world back in the early 1500s.

Tzintzuntzán, the ancient capital of the Purepecha culture, was the original ceramics center, which spread throughout Michoacán.

The Sierra Volcanica, famous as the home of the Monarch butterflies, is still today the home of the Purepecha people. The Purepecha language is still the primary language taught in the school in San José, Spanish being second.

That is the way in many of the villages scattered through these mountains, tradition and culture never having changed much since before the conquest.

In the early 1970’s, a potter named Hilario Alejos moved to San Jose from Carapán, further up the valley of ‘Onces Pueblos’ (Eleven Villages), where his mother, famous for her ‘Piñas’ had taught him the art. She was selling her work in Guadalajara and Morelia to use for ‘poncheras’, or punch bowls,

to serve the popular ‘tepache’, a fermented pineapple beverage.

The traditional style often had a row of hooks below the rim of the pot, from which hung a set of small cups.

Taking advantage of the available clay, the Alejos family and soon their neighbors, were carrying on in her tradition. The Hernandez Cerrano and Alejos families have been creating ‘piñas’ here for 40 years now. They have recently opened a co-operative, named ‘Tsitsiki’, or Flower of the Forest behind the school where their art can be viewed and purchased.

The Hernandez Cerrano family was instrumental in obtaining from the official ‘Denomination of Origin’ status for the Michoacan piña makers. This group copyright is granted by the Mexican federal government to protect against piracy, the artistic and intellectual properties of the original artists & producers of Mexican products considered to be ‘artesanal’.

The work begins at a deposit on the mountainside near the village.

Clay is mined for the making of the ceramic pots. It is then washed clean in the creek that runs close behind the house. Most of the design work is molded separately from the pots themselves, and applied to the surface while still wet. Some times a small mold will be fashioned and used to create a repeated decoration, but for the most part, everything is done by hand, to enable the potter to know that the clay has the proper moisture content and consistency to mold the main pot body.

When the pots have been constructed, they are placed in the sun to dry and harden. Once hardened and completely dry, depending on the design, some of the areas on the pots are coated with a thin layer of white clay found in the bottom of Laguna Cuitzéo a land-

locked lake 100 km. to the east.

This provides an underpainting that glows through the glaze. Then once again they are thoroughly dried in the sun.

Now they are ready for the first firing, done in an open pit off of the kitchen. The pots are placed on special clay pedestals in the center on the pit. A fire of oak and pine is built up around the pots and kept blazing for over six hours, depending on the size and number of pots being fired.

After cooling in the open air, the pots are ready for the glaze, which is often simply drizzled over the pots surface, then fired once more. This accounts for the unique blending effect on the pots with multiple colors. The two original colors used for the glazes, the green and the yellow, contain lead.

Though the pots are not toxic unless heated (or if someone were to actually eat a pot), attempts were made by U.S. potter societies to introduce non-toxic glazes to San José. The results were, at best, less than satisfying as far as the greens and yellows are concerned.

The unique richness, depth and brilliance of the traditional glazes proved impossible to even come close to. The Hernandez Cerrano family and the other families who still create this art form, went back to their original methods.

Simply, these pieces are display pieces, not dinnerware and not toys. In recent years, a rich blue and a chocolate brown have been added to the spectrum. Both of these colors are lead-free. This new variety and the ever present quality and constant innovation by the Hernandez family members, bring them many awards.

First and second place ribbons adorn many of the larger pots on display, won in prestigious State and National competitions. Collectors and gallery owners from all

over the world venture into these mountains in search of their art and thankfully, they keep the tradition alive.

Three generations are now active in their production, much of which is done in the open courtyard behind the display room. In the back, under a shed roof, is the main kiln. It looks much like an old well.

The wood is stacked up, with the raw pots setting on clay stands.

It is then covered and fired up. Heat is controlled from a flu beneath the fire and through the seasoned

planks and plate metal that serve as the lid. Firing takes all night, with temperatures rising to about 500 C. But, alas, times are changing.

Berry farms and herb and spice hothouses are filling the valley floor. Jobs in agriculture may not pay that well, but the work is steady. More and more, the young people are drawn away from tradition to the world of TV and smart phones. We hope the work at the co-op will continue.

This is a truly unique and beautiful art form. It would be sad to see it perish.

SPORTS 19

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Random thoughts from the Tribune Sports desk

Friday July 4 - 10, 2014

Netherlands comes back to beat Mexico, 2-1

By Joel Hansen

Mexico’s Hector Moreno (R) challenges Arjen Robben (REUTERS/Marcelo Del Pozo)

A

few days have passed since the elimination of Mexico at the hands of the Dutch. El Tri played a great match and can feel both proud and ripped off by the results last Sunday.

Their game plan in the first half was perfect; they held the Dutch attack and were spectacular in countering. They were calm and cool and had the better chances.

After the Mexico goal the Dutch had no choice but to attack, but again I felt like the Mexicans were up for it and handled all the Dutch could throw at them, with Ochoa making some highlight saves to keep them in it.

Nobody on the planet was going to stop Sneijder’s goal, it was a perfectly hit and placed ball.

But the real injustice happened in the 6(!!!) minutes of extra time and that is when Robben earned his ‘Academy Award’ with a historic dive in the box that lead to the game winner. I wonder if soccer players get embarrassed by these antics? Or does Robben feel like he did what he had to do to earn

a victory? I can tell you that my 12 year old son who plays American football and lacrosse before that was disappointed and confused by the diving. Scoffing at players being pulled down so easily, often telling me how he could play through that so, why couldn’t an adult?

He thinks the Mexico team was robbed by a number of factors: the dive, the extra 6 minutes and the “cooling off” period. The cooling off period to me is simply ridiculous and really, borderline racist. The only teams that benefit from this are the European teams. Squads from South American, Asia and African deal with this heat and have to play with it in their home leagues. I do not remember “warm up” breaks when the games are played in cooler climates.

Come on FIFA, let’s keep it fair for everyone and while you are at it, let’s add replay options for bogus tackles that lead to bogus spot kicks that send countries home from the greatest World Cup I can remember.

Arjeen Robben after his World Class “Dive”

T

he game was looking like a sure Mexico victory heading into the final minutes. In the first half, Mexico had most of the better chances. Netherlands’ star striker duo of Arjen Robben and Robin van Persie couldn’t get any space or any opportunities, and Mexico was looking threatening from outside the box and on the counterattack.

In the second half, Giovani dos Santos opened the scoring with a beautiful strike from outside the box to give Mexico a 1-0 lead. Netherlands began to push forward more and more, bringing on Memphis Depay for a defender, and winning corner kicks and attempting dangerous crosses.

The Dutch did not look they were going to break through, especially

with Mexico goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa putting on a show once again. And then Netherlands brought off van Persie, an interesting decision given how talented RVP can be in the final third.

A 10th corner kick ended up paying off for the Dutch, though, as a header fell to the feet of Wesley Sneijder, who buried it past Ochoa to tie the game in the 88th minute. Mexico looked relegated to play for extra time, but Netherlands was looking to end it in regulation. Arjen Robben, who had created plenty of chances in the second half, took it to the endline against multiple Mexico defenders — and then cut back, and when he showed the world his “performing capabilities” taking a dive that the the Portuguese

Referee considered a fault. This situation left crowds shocked and disappointed by Robben’s miming during a huge festival.

Arjen Robben was accused of faking three times during his 90-minute performance on the Estadio Castelao stage at the World Cup festival of football.

Many in the crowd were disappointed by Robben’s miming – especially if they supported Mexico.

Klaas-Jan Huntelaar buried the penalty and Netherlands was up 2-1. That would be the final score, as Mexico was devastated. El Tri have now been knocked out six straight times in the Round of 16 Sources: http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/ http://www.cbssports.com/

CHARITIES 20

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Friday July 4 - 10, 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 Amazing Grace Missions Assisting families in Majisterio & Progreso with necessities and job training and English. Children’s programs also. Tax-deductible in USA & Canada.

Contact slw2014nv@gmail.com American Legion Post 14: raises resources and manpower to improve facilities needing building maintenance www.americanlegion14.org Asilo San Juan Diego Home for the Elderly - Contact: Lupita Sanchez Covarrubias 222-1257 or malupita88@ hotmail.com or www.mexonline.com\ asilosanjuandiego.htm Asociación Down - Assistance to persons with Down’s Syndrome – Contact: Ana Catalina Eisenring at 224-9577.

Banderas Bay Women’s Shelter - Safe shelter for women & children victims of domestic violence. www.compassionforthefamily.org Becas Vallarta, A.C. – Provides scholarships to high school and university students. Tax-deductible in Mexico and USA. Polly Vicars at (322) 223-1371 or Buri Gray at (322) 221-5285. www. puerto-vallarta.com/amf Bucerias Bilingual Community Center: Supporting families, seniors in Bucerias. www.buceriasbilingualcommunitycenter.org

Casa Hogar - A shelter for orphaned, abandoned, disadvantaged or vulnerable children. Luz Aurora Arredondo at 221-1908, Rita Millan (322) 141-6974. casamaximocornejo@gmail.com Centro Comunitario SETAC-GLBT – Services the GLBT community, including treatment and referrals, education, English classes, HIV testing and counseling. Paco Arjona 224-1974 or paco@ setac.com.mx Clinica de Rehabilitación Santa Barbara - Rehabilitation of the handicapped. Contact: Laura Lopez Portillo Rodriguez at 224-2754.

COLINA Spay and Neuter Clinic - Free and by-donation sterilization clinic in Old Town. Only open Sundays, Contact: cez@rogers.com or 322-104-6609 CompassionNet Impact – Transforming the lives of people living in chronic poverty. Job creation, education, emergency food, medicine & clothing.

Tax-deductible. Cell: (322) 133-7263 or ric@4compassion.org Cruz Roja (Red Cross) - Handles hospital and emergency service in Vallarta. It is the only facility that is authorized to offer assistance to injured people on the street. Contact: 222-1533, 222-4973 Desayunos para los Niños de Vallarta A.C. Feeding programs, education programs, day care centers for single mothers. 22 343 11 or 22 225 72 FB/desayunosninosvallarta Discapacitados de Vallarta, A.C. (DIVAC) association of handicapped individuals dedicated to helping one another. Ivan Applegate at 221-5153.

Families At The Dump: Supporting families living in the landfill or garbage dump thru education and sustainable opportunities. www.familiesatthedump. org or 297-7425 Fundacion Punta de Mita LDG. Ana Lilia Medina Varas de Valdés. ana@fundacionpuntademita.org Tel.

(329) 291 5053 www.fundacionpuntademita.org Grupo Ecológico de PuertoVallarta: Arq. Luz del Carmen Pérez Alvarez cayro_13@ hotmail.com grupoecologico.com Friends of PV Animals Volunteers working to enhance the lives of shelter animals. For info and donations visit friendsofpvanimals.com Horizonte de Paz: Shelter for men of all ages who are troubled with alcohol & drug addiction. Donato Schimizzi: 322 199 9523 or Roberto: 281 0644 dschimizzi@yahoo.com La Brigada de la Basur:a A weekly meeting of neighborhood children to clean Vallarta Streets. Contact Que?Pasa 223-4006 Mexico Ministries & Mission, Inc. raises funds to the poor in Vallarta.

Contact Fr. Jack+ 044 322 229-1129 christchurchbythesea.org Navy League - assists in the transportation of donated medical supplies from the U.S., organizes work groups to paint and repair facilities, and operates the local Toys for Tots program. www. vallartanavyleague.org.

New Life Mexico - Challenging Child Poverty with health and education programs. Philippa Vernon pvp@newlifemexico.com Paraíso Felino AC Refuge and Adoption Centre for cats and kittens in the Bay of Banderas. Luis Donaldo Cel. (322) 120-4092 Pasitos de Luz - substitute home for low income children with any type of handicap, offers rehabilitation services and special support to their families.

299-4146. pasitosdeluz.org PEACEAnimals - Free mobile spay/ neuter clinic operating 48 weeks a year, primarily in Puerto Vallarta. Tax-deductible. peaceanimals.org Pro Biblioteca de Vallarta - Raises funds for Los Mangos Public Library.

Tax-deductible Ricardo Murrieta at 224-9966 or Jimmie Ellis at 222-1478.

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

Puerto Vallarta Garden Club: Beautify and protecting the environment. vallartagardenclub.com

PuRR Project - A no-kill cat shelter, a natural un-caged environment. www. purrproject.com Refugio Infantil Santa EsperanzaShelter for Children. Tax-deductible. 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 July 4 - 10, 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

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 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 Murphy’s Irish Pub Morelos 484 Altos 1, Centro

PLACE YOUR AD HERE

La Palapa Pulpito#103, Playa los Muertos” 322.222.5225 Las Adelitas Av. Fluvial Vallarta 234 322.293.7778 / 22.113.0373 Nacho Daddy

287 Basilio Badillo nachodaddymexico.com Philo’s Delfin15, La Cruz de Huanacaxle”329.295.5068 Thu-Sat 8:30 pm Que? Pasa Aquiles Serdan 625, Col Emiliano Zapata 322.223.4006 The River Café Isla del Rio Cuale Local4 Centro 322.223.0788 Vitea Libertad Edificio Malecon 2, Centro” 322.222.8703

LIVE MUSIC VENUES

Vallarta´s only English newspaper

ADVERTISE HERE FOR ONLY $ 250 PESOS / WK

PICK UP YOUR COPY OF THE TRIBUNE AT TOURISM OFFICES SATURDAY MARKET A PAGE IN THE SUN FREDY TUCAN´S PANCAKE HOUSE CONSULATE OFFICES YO-YO MO´S MARINA RIVIERA NAYARIT

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

Other Important Phone Numbers American Consulate: (322)222-0069 or 01-333-268-2145 Canadian Consulate: (322) 293-0098 Motor Vehicle Dept: 224-8484 Consumer Protection (PROFECO): 225-0000 Immigration Office: 221-1380 National Telegraph: 224-7970 Electric Company (CFE): 071 Water Company (SEAPAL): 223-1516 Municipal Services: 223-2500 Tourist Protection: 223-2500 Ministerio Publico: 222-1762 Animal Protection: 221-0078 Wake-Up Service: 031

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

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

BRAIN TEASERS 22

Friday July 4 - 10, 2014

SUDOKU easy

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

medium

Number Blocks

hard

Word Search

What’s a number block you ask? 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.

EXPLORERS Can you find the hidden explorers? They may be horizontal, vertical, diagonal, forwards or backwards. ALBATROSS, BUDGIE, BUZZARD, CANARY, CORMORANT, CRANE, CROW, DOVE, EAGLE, EMU, FINCH, FLAMINGO, HAWK, HERON, JACKDAW, KESTREL, KOOKABURRA, LAPWING, LARK, NIGHTINGALE, OSTRICH, OWL, PARROT, PENGUIN, PIGEON, QUAIL, RAVEN, ROBIN, SANDPIPER, SEAGULL, SPARROW, STORK, SWALLOW, TERN, TOUCAN, VULTURE.

Commonym 1 1. A Ball - A Fish - A Cold 2. A Ball - A Salad - A Coin 3. A Cork - A Question - A Balloon 4. A Bottle - A Baseball Player - A Mushroom 5. A Bell - Mouth - A Shoe 6. A Tug of War - The Nightly News - A Boat 7. Seventeen - Time - People 8. A Basketball Court - A Highway - A Bowling Alley 9. Fog A Jack - A Body Builder 10. A Hockey Game - A Restaurant - A Bank

Commonym 1 Answers 1. they are caught 2. they are tossed 3. they are popped 4. they have caps 5. they have tongues 6. they have anchors 7. they are magazines 8. they have lanes 9. they lift 10. they have checks

What’s a commonym you ask? A commonyms is group of words that have a common trait in the three words/items listed. For example: thewords; A car - A tree - An elephant.. they all have trunks. These will make you think!

Wuzzle 15 Answers 1. Keeping You Out of Trouble 2. Foreign Movie 3. A Little Rough Around the Edges 4. Too Little, Too Late 5. Double Your Money Back 6. Start of Something Big

Commonym

Wuzzles

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

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