Issue 917, October 31 - November 6, 2014

Catch us online @ vallartatribune.com

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News VALLARTA PRIDE

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October 31 - Nov 6, 2014 Free Issue 917

Entertainment PALM CABARET

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Travel MEXCALTITAN

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Photo courtesy Old Town Farmers Market

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Friday Oct 31 - Nov 6, 2014 Director noemi zamora noemizamorareynoso@gmail.com Editor Lic. Madeline Milne mmilne@Vallartatribune.com Editorial Board Marcia Blondin Raymond C. Beaty Lois Ellison John & Christie Forget Landon Hollander Nancy Van Landingham Robina Oliver Sales Team Rebeca Castellón rebeca.castellonn@gmail.com RAMIRO LOPEZ ventastribuna7@yahoo.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

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.

Flower of the Week Schefflera Schefflera (Spanish) Schefflera actinophylla Octopus Flower or Umbrella Tree. An evergreen tree growing to 50 ft. In early summer, it begins to produce red racemes or spikes up to 6 ft long which appear at the top of the tree and contain1000 small red flowers each. The umbrella-shaped leaves offer shade and the seeds attract birds.

This plant is one of over 200 found in Sandra’s color-coded guidebook Tropical Plants and Walks of Puerto Vallarta. Available at the Vallarta Botanical Gardens’ gift shop www.vbgardens.org, Page in the Sun Bookstore and from Sandra. Look for her at the Saturday Market soon. Information on her many area walks can be found at: www.escaperoutevallarta.com.

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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.

Sandra Cesca

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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Editor´s Note

S

ome of you may remember an article we published last year about Juan and his donkey Conejo. They hang out in Old Town and for $1.50 you can take your photo with Conejo. This is the way that Juan makes his living and cares for his animal family. The gist of the article was that despite signs in English, tourists take photos with their phones and don’t bother to pay him the measly 20 pesos.

At the time we searched high and low for Juan so we could take some photos and pay him for the pleasure. We couldn’t find him and eventually ran the story with some photos a friend had taken.

Last night I ran into Juan and Conejo nearly a year after running the original article. I stopped to introduce myself and to pay him for the photos we used in the paper. He said to me that things haven’t changed much, but he has a new sign ready for the tourists. I heard a story that last

year Conejo was very sick and that some of the animal lovers in the community helped Juan with expenses.

Which is wonderful, but more wonderful is if people would see their actions for what they really are… It’s only $2 people! Not unlike haggling with a taxi driver over 10 pesos. Perhaps it adds up over the years, but if you are here for a short time – consider that value is relative and 80 cents means a lot more to someone who lives on $10 a day than some who lives on $100’s.

Which leads me to what happened next… I’m enjoying a fabulous burger at Derby City Burgers - it costs 100 pesos, not cheap but in my opinion totally worth it. A juggler comes by and does his thing. I’m not particularly interested but recognize that for him my 10 pesos is far more valuable to him than me, I happily hand it over. He says the usual.

“Thank you. Welcome to Puerto Vallarta,” and I don’t correct him but the table behind me?! Oh, they correct him. Correct him with an adamant “VIVO AQUI!” “Don’t assume we’re tourist just because we’re not Mexican blah, blah, blah…” I’m sure you’ve heard it before.

The indignation! Needless to say, they didn’t tip him for his act.

Because you know, they’re practically Mexican and despite affording a burger that is likely his daily take, they don’t have to support

the entertainers, the buskers, the street kids that are doing what they can to get through another day in paradise.

So, I was disheartened to say the least. I wanted to tell them how ridiculous they sounded. But you know what?

Three years plus here and I find myself letting things roll off my back. I wasn’t going to win any argument with that crowd so I didn’t bother.

I said to myself, “I know what I’ll write about tomorrow.” And I did. Any maybe they’ll read this and recognize themselves and maybe, just maybe they’ll realize that we are visitors to this beautiful country that openly embraces us.

That makes life for us here one of the easiest, most pleasant countries in the world to live in.

(Have you tried immigrating to the US or Canada lately?)

Anyways, long rant short, it’s 10 pesos. If you don’t have it, or don’t want to give it – then a polite smile and a “Gracias, pero no.”

But remember that these vendors, donkeys, jugglers, Aztec warrior dancers, sand covered chess players, freaky little alien that scares the crap out of me every time and yes, even the Tequila floggers make up the spice that is Puerto Vallarta. If you don’t support them, then who will?

NOTE: No photo today because I forgot to take one. How ironic.

Déjà Vu Tribute to Gustavo Cerati NOVEMBER 1st, 8:00 pm WHERE: Hotel Puerto de Luna $250 pesos Celebrate the Day of the Dead, with a 5 course dinner surrounded by a mysticism of this traditional day dedicated to Gustavo Cerati, from the band Soda Stereo. For 250 pesos you will enjoy the concert, dinner and theater show. This event bene-

fits the foundation Sendero de amor, a non-profit whose work is focused on vulnerable communities in Bahia de Banderas, supporting education, food and health. Vallarta Gourmet offers a terrific dinner with entrees, soup, salad, and dessert.

A glass of wine and digestive included. Buy your ticket at: venxen.en Vallartaticket.com, and at the Hotel Puerto de Luna.

Letter to Editor: The Power of the Press -- The Vallarta Tribune --helped to make us what we are today. There's a lot of competition for Spanish and English teachers here in Puerto Vallarta, and we needed to bring our program and enthusiasm to everyone who wanted to learn.

That's hard to do with only word of mouth. Our little ad, just the size of a business card, was exactly what we needed when we needed it. A few words, a little photo of Arturo and me. Contact information.

That's it.

In the past, we had six to eight students. A small but distinguished group. And then we met you. Our small ad appeared. Within six weeks, our client base tripled, and by the end of the season, we had twenty students and a waiting list.

I wish you could meet all of them. Intelligent, well-traveled, disciplined, eager, talented people... the kind of people who read the Tribune. You call the Tribune the newspaper that people read. I call the Tribune the newspaper that extraordinary people read.

Thanks to what you personally did to create this interesting, essential Puerto Vallarta must-read publication, the people who know read it cover to cover. Of course we're with you again in November, December and January, twice a month. Many of our students are returning and will re-up with us.

How wonderful it is to know that we have you in our corner. We're gearing up for a bumper year. Thanks to you.

Glenna Travers

Friday Oct 31 - Nov 6, 2014

SPCA of Puerto Vallarta October is Adopt a Shelter Month. Help us continue our efforts.

Get involved…rescue, adopt, foster, volunteer, donate or educate. You can learn more about the SPCA Puerto Vallarta by checking us out at www.spcapv. com/home or on Facebook.

How to become a volunteer?

Volunteers are needed all over!

We have pawesome volunteers in Canada, the United States and of course here in Puerto Vallarta.

Volunteers do many tasks from visiting our shelter and walking, cuddling or taking care for our animals, driving people to and from the sanctuary, social media and web site work, posting online “For Adoption” ads, airport transportation, crate management in BC and Alberta, home checks, animal delivery to new homes, foster home management, newsletters, adoption stands, Farmers Market booth, networking and fundraising.

All types of talent are needed but most important is DEDICATION. This week we are honoring Kiley Phillips, from Alberta, Canada. Kiley helps us with promotional ads for our animals in foster homes and manages our PVCA Facebook page and outreach program.

You too can come and spend a rewarding afternoon cuddling the animals at Puerto Vallarta’s SPCA Sanctuary.

Our dogs and cats are awaiting “forever homes” and your help is needed to jump start their socialization. The goal is to get these

animals adjusted and ready to interact in the real world.

The majority of the SPCA animals either come from extremely abusive situations or they have been abandoned. Your love and attention can make up for that sad history.

During your visit, you can interact with the animals and even take a dog (or two or three) for a walk. You can also play with the animals, assist the vet or help with dinner time.

We have scheduled tours each week starting at noon.

We ask everyone to meet in the Costco parking lot beside the large tree. You can either caravan in your own vehicle or ride with us out to the Sanctuary (reservations necessary).

The length of the tour is at the discretion of our visitors and can be from two to four hours in length.

Please contact Nicole Martin at nicole@cupocity.com to make a reservation.

To see all the animals available for adoption, visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ spcapv. Go to Photos where you will also find individual Albums for all the animals available as well as a bit of their history.

We always have a need for used towels and bedding. Please contact us a spcapv@gmail.com if you can help. Are you or someone you know traveling from Puerto Vallarta to Canada and want to help us get more animals to fur-ever homes? Please contact us if you can be a travel companion spcapv@gmail.com.

Ahoy! Welcome to Puerto Vallarta Friday 31/10/2014 NORWEGIAN STAR NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE Arrive 8:00 a.m. Leave 4:00 p.m. 2240 guests STAR PRINCESS PRINCESS CRUISES Arrive 12:00 p.m. Leave 8:00 p.m. 3300 people

Wednesday 05/11/2014 CARNIVAL MIRACLE CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE Arrive 9:00 a.m. Leave 9:00 p.m. 2980 guests VEENDAM HOLLAND AMERICA LINE Arrive 08:00 a.m. Leave 04:00 p.m. 1266 guests Thursday 06/11/2014 GRAND PRINCESS PRINCESS CRUISES Arrive 8:00 a.m. Leave 05:00 p.m. 2600 guests NORWEGIAN STAR NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE Arrive 11:00 a.m. Leave 07:00 p.m. 2240 guests

news 04

Friday Oct 31 - Nov 6, 2014

Mexico’s Trade Deficit Down 41.1%

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exico’s trade deficit for the first nine months of 2014 was $1.76 billion, down 41.1 percent from the same period last year, the National Statistics and Geography Institute (INEGI) said on Monday.

Between January and September exports from Mexico amounted to $294 billion, a 4.6 percent increase over the same period in 2013, while imports reached $295.77 billion, 4.1 percent more than the first nine months of 2013.

Mexico’s oil sales between Jan. 1 and Sept. 30 were valued at $33.92 billion, a gain of 8.7 percent over the same period in 2013, while non-petroleum exports totaled $260.08 billion, a 6.6 percent increase.

Original www.laht.com

Mexico, U.S. Settle Sugar Dispute Bilateral talks have led to an agreement resolving an anti-dumping complaint U.S. sugar producers filed in March against Mexican exporters, Mexico’s government said.

The American Sugar Alliance had accused Mexican exporters of dumping cheap, subsidized supplies on the U.S. market and had sought the imposition of a tax on sugar imports from Mexico.

But negotiations involving officials and industry representatives from both sides of the border resulted in an accord based “on the acknowledgment that the U.S. sugar market is highly regulated” and that the United States must often resort to imports to meet demand for sweeteners, Mexico’s Economy Secretariat said.

The pact establishes a formula that ensures Mexican sugar producers will be given preference in meeting any deficit in the U.S. market, the secretariat said in a statement. “Finally, the parties

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beginning with the nominations in 2012, followed by a qualification phase and then a short list, which was drawn up by a panel of experts to reduce the number of competitors to 28.

The panel was headed by Federico Mayor, the former director of Unesco, and made up of professionals in architecture and urban planning, communications, sociology and economics.

Voting by the public entered the third of three phases on October 7 and winds up on December 7. Hundreds of millions

A agreed on a mechanism of benchmark minimum prices for Mexican exports of standard and refined sugar to the United States, consistent with (U.S.) legislation and public policies,” according to the statement.

The North American Free Trade Agreement has created an integrated North American sweetener market in which Mexico exports sugar to the United States and imports high-fructose corn syrup from its northern neighbor.

Original www.laht.com

of people are expected to have participated in the vote by the time the process ends.

Other cities that have made it to the finalists’ stage are Havana, La Paz, Quito, Barcelona, Beirut, Chicago, Doha, Durban, Kuala Lumpur, London, Perth, Reykjavik and Vigan.

The vote for the top cities is the third global vote organized by New7Wonders. The first two were the New7Wonders of the World and the New7Wonders of Nature.

Original: Mexico Daily News

Fibra Inn announces 15 new hotels

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he real estate trust will invest 2.5 billion pesos in its expansion plan The hotel group Fibra Inn announced today it will invest 2.5 billion pesos in new properties next year, expanding its operations in various cities in Mexico.

The Mexican real estate investment trust plans to increase the

number of its hotels to about 45, said director Víctor Zorrilla Vargas, after closing the year with 30. The firm will be looking at Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey. In the latter city Fibra is already studying the possibility of either acquisitions or new developments.

Yesterday, Fibra announced the sale of new certificates, similar

Vallarta Pride 2015 Unity

By Bill Hevener

Mexico among 14 in top cities vote Voting to choose the world’s top seven cities ends December 7 exico City is among the 14 finalists vying to be among the top seven cities of the world in a process that began with 1,200 nominations in 2012.

Voting for the New7Wonders Cities is taking place online at the website of the New7Wonders Foundation, a Swiss organization that began the initiative as a Millennium project to choose new wonders of the world from a selection of 200 monuments.

The selection of the top cities has been made in several stages

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to shares, worth 4 billion pesos, to finance a multi-year expansion plan that will boost the total number of its properties to 60.

Fibra’s principal market is the business traveler. It has franchise and licensing contracts with several global hotel brands.

Source: CNNExpansion (sp) mexiconewsdaily.com

fter a very successful Pride 2014 which doubled in participation from the previous year, the steering committee received a huge out pouring of support from the local community to get involved in Vallarta Pride 2015. Hector Betancourt of Colectivo Vallarta LGBT and Edgar Trivino of Poco's Ranch fame were two people to stand up right away.

With their help Vallarta Pride will now include the Marcha contra la homofobia on Sunday, May 17th.

By adding the Marcha, Pride is now a weeklong celebration of the diversity of the LGBT community in Banderas Bay. Carmen Porras Co-President of Pride, (along with Poncho Davalos) expressed how happy she is that Pride can now included the cultural side of the community." Not everyone wants to party all night long as a way of showing their Pride."

With the support from all sectors of the Vallarta Community, the Steering committee decided on unity as the theme of Pride 2015.

With Porras and Davalos as Co-Presidents, Bill Hevener, Vice-President of Pride expressed how thrilled he was, "We have been without a President for the last two years. We are in Mexico and the public face of Pride needs

to be a national person. After all, one of the reason the international community visits here and moves here is the amazing warmth and friendliness of the Mexican people. Maile Johnston of the OCV reports that Vallarta is in fact considered one of the happiest and most welcoming tourist destinations on earth.

With Unity and unifying the community in mind, the Steering Committee set out to draw upon all facets of Vallarta. So far there is talk of an Art Show, Film Festival, Book Readings, Sports events, and Men's chorus concerts.

Davalos is excited, saying that now more people will choose to visit here in spring. “People can come and enjoy Restaurant Week as well as Vallarta Pride 2015.

Visitors and locals can enjoy the best of the best that Vallarta has to offer. It so important in a time of year that traditionally people did not know us, People can come for a full week of vacation.”

Hevener hopes that the hotels and luxury condos, like last year, will offer a special Pride rate. "We have an amazing community here.

People still say good morning, good afternoon and good evening to each. Where the sun, great food and family mean more then acquiring things. Vallarta Pride will be bigger and better so help us unify the world in Vallarta.”

Pemex to Invest $1.4 Billion in Cogeneration Projects State-owned oil giant Petroleos Mexicanos, or Pemex, said it planned to invest $1.4 billion in two cogeneration projects to supply electricity to its refineries in Tula, Hidalgo, and Cadereyta, Nuevo Leon.

Pemex Cogeneracion signed memorandums of understanding with Mexican-Canadian consortium Hermes Atco and Japan’s Mitsui to build the power generation projects at the refineries, Pemex said in a statement.

The project in Tula will be built with Hermes Atco and have 638 MW of generating capacity, producing 1,247 tons per hour of steam for the Miguel Hidalgo refinery, as well as supplying clean energy to the National Electric System, Pemex said.

The $820 million plant is expected to begin operating in the second half of 2017.

Mitsui and Pemex Cogenera-

cion plan to develop a natural gas cogeneration plant in Cadereyta, a city in the northern state of Nuevo Leon, with 380 MW of generating capacity and producing 760 tons per hour of steam at the Hector Lara Sosa refinery, Pemex said.

The $590 million plant is expected to begin commercial operation in the second half of 2017.

The new plants will help improve the efficiency and “operational reliability of production processes,” Pemex said.

The projects are expected to create about 2,500 jobs and provide a boost to regional operations.

Cogeneration is a process that simultaneously produces both electricity and heat from one fuel source, such as natural gas, making use of heat that would otherwise be lost.

Original www.laht.com

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

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elcome returning visitors, residents and new tourists to Puerto Vallarta, our paradise nestled between the mountains and the sea. Here you will find the most variety of dining, shopping, entertainment and fun of any tropical destination.

This page is dedicated to showing you the best we have to offer in Vallarta , not only the fine businesses who are listed here, but a total of 185 local merchants in 20 categories such as Best Restaurants, Boutiques, Jewelry, Specialty Foods, Art Galleries, Craft Galleries, Travel and Tours, Boutique Hotels, Real Estate Agencies, Services, Beauty Shops and Spas, Entertainment and Bars, Cafes and more...

We are proud to announce our new website …http://puertovallartadining-shopping.com/ which links directly to our original online site…vallartashoppingdirectory. blogspot.com Click on either site and you will find the most unique shopping

and dining experience with photos of the various restaurants and shops, links to their websites and Facebook, contact information and write ups about their products and services. On the website you can click on any category such as Restaurants and it will take you to the page with all the restaurants .

Be sure to check out the loca-

tions listed on this page such as CASSANDRA SHAW for the most unique jewelry , FAITH COLLECTIVA for handcrafted malas and accessories, PATRICIA GAWLE CERAMICS, for whimsical ceramic artworks, GALERIA DANTE for the largest selection of art in town, GALERIA VALLARTA for art in all forms at affordable

prices, COLIBRI for Folk art and specialized ceramic décor, DI VINO DANTE elegant wine and tapas bar. NACHO DADDY for great Mex/Tex food and live music, BUMERANG CONSIGNMENT SHOP for slmost new clothing for men and women, VALLARTA FOOD TOURS for a culinary and cultural journey through Vallarta,

and the beautiful ELEMENTS OF DESIGN store where you will find every type of decorative accent for your home and unique gifts.

LOS BAMBINOS our favorite local musical group will be entertaining locally starting in November but are available for bookings.

Have fun and enjoy your stay in Puerto Vallarta.

Basilio Badillo 269 A Puerto Vallarta, Jal Mon - Sat 2pm-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

NEWS 06

Friday Oct 31 - Nov 6, 2014

Accelerate projects and boost growth Carlos Slim urges government move quickly on investment projects

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ustained growth of not just 2%, but even 4% to 5% is attainable and would put Mexico among the world’s developed countries, “irreversibly and in grand style,” businessman Carlos Slim Helú told the Mexico Business Summit, being held this week in Querétaro.

“I have not the smallest doubt that Mexico has an enormous opportunity” and that sustained growth can be achieved, said Slim, head of Grupo Carso and owner of Telmex and América Móvil.

He urged the government to accelerate the launch of invest-

ment projects such as gas pipelines that connect to the United States network, deep-water oil exploration, and others that can generate employment and boost economic growth.

He said it was urgent that authorities move on those projects to allow the private sector to act as quickly as possible to generate economic activity.

Slim Helú told the conference that in order to stimulate the economy workers’ incomes must increase, for which they must be able to achieve higher education levels and become part of the middle class. This will reduce the country’s dependence on exports and strengthen the domestic market.

“It’s very important for the country that it can create a larger middle class with a higher education level and greater buying power

that will allow for the creation of a very solid domestic market, and that people can have the advantage of higher incomes.”

One of the solutions to reducing corruption, he suggested, is to allow private investment in all sectors of the country. Without a doubt, Slim added, private investment is the way forward, be it in energy, infrastructure or education.

He also elaborated on his proposal to reduce the workweek from 48 to 35 hours as a means to increase productivity. A 48-hourweek allows for lunch and coffee breaks. After the reduction, the result would be 35 hours of actual work, or three days instead of five. Under Slim’s scheme salary levels would remain the same, but the retirement age would be 75.

Source: El Universal (sp) www.mexicodailynews.com

Six Vallarta Restaurants Make Top 10 List

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afé Des Artistes, Vista Grill, Ocean Grill, Bistro Teresa, Le Kliff and Trío are among the top ten winning restaurants in the "Best Fine Dining Restaurants in Mexico" category according to visitors of the travel rating website, TripAdvisor.

Puerto Vallarta distinguishes itself from other destinations not only because of its incre-

dible locales, but also for offering restaurants with international prestige. In the "Best Fine Dining Restaurants in Mexico" category, six Puerto Vallarta restaurants are considered to be the best in Mexico.

The Vallarta Tribune congratulates all of these deserving restaurants

ADORABLE DOG IN THE SPOTLIGHT...JAKE

Take a look…take a better look. Jake has NOT been Photoshop’d!

This is his for-real smile. Jake is a super sweet, cuddly, playful, overall great dog. He is a Lab mix about a year and a half old and weighs just 28 pounds. Jake is good with other dogs and would make a wonderful companion. How can you not smile back when you look at him! Contact us at spcapv@gmail.com if you are ready to add Jake to your family.

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LOCAL 07

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Friday Oct 31 - Nov 6, 2014

Paradise and Parenting

Let’s Hear from You: First Person Expat Interviews

By Fabien Madesclaire Fabien@g3mex.com

Leza Warkentin

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his week, Eric Wichner, the founder of Vallarta Eats Food Tours, graciously sat down with us to tell us his expat story. Eric was born and raised in Philadelphia, and spent his professional life in the non- profit realm as the Executive Director of the AIDS Fund and the American Red Cross, Philadelphia County.

What brought you to Puerto Vallarta?

I’d just turned forty and was in the midst of a mid-life crisis.

Very burnt out from my years as a fundraiser for non-profits, and was ready to cut the cord with my Jewish mother. It only took me 40 years! Being on the East Coast, I’d spent a lot of time in Isla Mujeres, and thought I might move there. But I took a tour around central Mexico, looking for Spanish schools, and fell in love with Guanajuato. So my plan was to stay there and study Spanish.

In the interim, I’d heard good things about Puerto Vallarta, and decided to take a trip to check it out, and really loved it here. My thought was to spend time in both Guanajuato and Vallarta, but I ended up permanently in Vallarta.

How did you manage the economics of moving to Mexico?

I came down with enough savings to live for two years. Also, I knew that I didn’t want to fall completely off of the radar professionally, so I continued to teach workshops in the States on Donor Development and Marketing for Non-profits.

What gave you the idea for Vallarta Eats Food Tours?

I was always a little tentative about visiting Mexico City, and decided that I would just go as a tourist. I went on TripAdvisor for the first time ever, to check out tours, and came across a food tour. I signed up and it was about half way through the tour that I realized that this was exactly what I was meant to do. To feed people! That’s when I came back to Vallarta and set up Vallarta Eats Food tours. Within a short period

of time I’d hired three tour guides and to date, we’ve had over 5,000 people tour with us.

T

I can see that you have some excellent reviews on TripAdvisor?

Yes! And it’s not only 1st time visitors to PV. We had a woman who’d been coming to Vallarta for the past 20 years, and she literally wept when she told us that the tour had totally changed vision of our town. She’d been afraid of eating at the taco stands before.

Also, I highly recommend that locals take the tour. I like to place locals with visitors, so that they can enjoy that feeling of having their “first impression”.

Do you offer a variety of tours?

We have our Signature Taco & More and the Mole, Pozole & More tours. We just launched our Tasting Vallarta tour, which is be a progressive dinner at some of the finer Mexican restaurants in town.

Where do you live in Vallarta?

I’ve been right on the Rio Cuale, over by Le Bistro, for the last nine years. I love the sound of the river. It’s very calming and inspirational.

That’s also where I’ve run my business, but I’m happy to report that we are just now opening an office right across from the Iglesia Guadalupe.

What do you see for the future of Vallarta and Mexico?

Well, I think that the new tax laws have made running a small business incredibly complicated. I mean, how can you get an electronic factura (invoice) for each taco at a taco stand?

Too, I take issue with some of the urban planning decisions and the high rental costs here. But I’m an expat, so it’s really not my place to complain.

Do you have any suggestions for someone who wants to live in Vallarta?

You really need to have a relaxed attitude and learn to “go with the flow” otherwise Vallarta will drive you crazy!

What do you miss most about the United States?

Asian food! Don’t tell my family and friends that!

Do you ever miss working for non-profits?

I like the idea of giving back to the community. Our guides at Vallarta Eats Food Tours are very passionate and civically minded.

So this year they will be focusing on a series of “Happy Projects”.

The first being the One Billion and Rising event on February 14th, which is devoted to stopping violence against women. Stay tuned for future “Happy Projects” from our amazing guides.

Do you plan on staying in Puerto Vallarta?

Yes, it’s my home. Though, I would like to look at some alternatives for the hot summertime.

Maybe in the future I will take a couple of months to travel.

Are you an expat, and do you have a story to tell? If so, please contact us a G3MEX Real Estate Group, and set up a time to be interviewed. Our helpful staff is always available. The office number is: 322-209-0832 or you can contact us via email at: info@ g3mex.com. Or check our website out at: www.g3mex.com

here are big doings this week in our family! We have Halloween, of course, which involves parties, trick or treating, and creative costuming.

I always thought it was hard to be a Canadian kid, trying to think up an original idea while dealing with three layers of clothing. Eventually you just join the rest of our practical population and throw a sheet over your parka.

But Halloween in this climate means that your daughter’s kitty face is going to melt off and drip onto her lollipop and possibly poison her. It means you will have to continuously watch your son for signs of dehydration in that nylon (NYLON) mummy costume.

So there’s that. But there’s also a Big Deal that I am trying to wrap my head and my heart around: this week marks my tenth anniversary as a mother. Ten years of being fully responsible for someone else’s life.

Ten years of candy stuck to the bottom of my purse. Ten years of worrying about fevers, rashes, friendships, my sanity. But just look over there at my son: happy, healthy, and somewhat concerned about the zombie apocalypse, just like his mama.

My child’s tenth birthday is his milestone, I fully acknowledge that.

We will do the party and we will celebrate as a family that he has moved from single to double digits.

We will all eat some of the cake, and I will eat the rest in front of the fridge over the next five days.

But this is also MY milestone.

Ten years ago I began a new life that I love, but a life for which I now know you can never fully prepare.

It’s been ten years full of moments of my worst failures and moments of my greatest success. It’s been ten years of realizing that I am learning as I go. It’s been ten years of just hoping to get it right when it really counts.

What have I learned that I can share with you? I have learned that some nights you are going to stay awake and wonder how you could have handled things differently.

I’ve learned that a good recipe for homemade cheese sauce is worth its weight in broccoli. I’ve learned that every kink in every stage seems like the end of the world but it never is.

And that the stage after that is much more like Armageddon than the one before.

I’ve learned that losing at checkers is a wonderful thing when it’s your seven-year-old son who is beating you. I’ve learned to let my daughter choose her own color combinations, because she’s got the sass to pull it off.

I’ve learned that it’s the little things that make a family life. They will remember that you made them use a British accent to say “You sank my battleship!” on game night. They will remember the night you all slept in the living room just because. They will remember that you looked in their eyes when they told you what happened at school.

But my most important lesson, one that I have to learn again every day, is that each moment is ours to keep. Run too fast and you won’t be able to scoop them all up. Today I’m going to savor this milestone with the people who began my schooling just ten years ago.

connects to Gringo Cultch and the former cultural Centre where besides enjoying their villas of Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor. art shows, you can continue the animal The lower part where the river empties out watching activity. The area is perfect for a into the ocean the island host two great walk looking out to see the river and then restaurans in PV; River Café and Oscars. the ocean in the distance. When you are in In both places you can enjoy besides their need of something cool this is a great place great cuisine, the animal watching activities to buy it. that happen just outside, such as iguanas, Oscars 223 0789 Isla Río Cuale #1 squirrels, birds, and lizards.

ROMANTIC ZONE Exploring Old Town

By Ramiro Lopez Macias sla Cuale is magical place.

Located in the middle of the Cuale River, it is divided across the middle by Insurgentes Avenue leaving two “zones”; heading east, under one road there is the leafy, treed, and shady cultural zone.

There you will find the statue of John Huston, Las Brazzas restaurant, the Cuale Cultural Centre, lots of fauna and the wood-slatted bridges that are an adventure to cross and an amazing trees crowded by cats. This area is very quiet, perfect for reading or just take a break. A steep staircase connects to Gringo Cultch and the former villas of Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor.

The lower part where the river empties out into the ocean the island hosts two iconic restaurants; River Café and Oscars. In both places you can enjoy great cuisine along with sightings of iguanas, squirrels, birds, and lizards.

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1 OSCARS At Oscars the views are amazing, thanks to the open design and minimal furniture. The building is made of natural elements with tables facing the river, the beach and the trees that are roosting resort for the local Pelicans and water birds. The mood itself invites you to relax and enjoy of the pleasures of the life.

Here, art is everywhere. The gallery hosts the work of Martha Gilbert. Across from Oscars there is the local museum and in a few steps more, La Cuiza, a cultural Centre with art shows. The area is perfect for a walk along the river with ocean views.

Oscars 223 0789 Isla Río Cuale #1

6 FRANKIES Newly opened, Frankie’s is fast becoming the new favorite Italian restaurants. They sell delicious, thin crust pizza. They also have incredible artisan pastas and salads.

Their Italian chef, who definitely knows his way around the kitchen and their Italian owner guarantee 3 you SERRANOS MEAT are eating an authentic Italian Located opposite the beautiful Mangiare. Prices are low park to modeLázaro Cárdenas, with a breathtaking rate. Try their Italian wines; the list view of thebut hillscarefully surrounding the city, is small selected.

and on the other side the Pacific Ocean. Their great service, a amazing dishes have created of Serranos Meat one of the places with better reputation in the area, they are celebrating their first anniversary, congratulations guys. Ask for the promotions for their first anniversary. athleen Carrillo, along with

9 DEE´S COFFE COMPANY/To Die For Arguably the best coffee shop in town, they bake every morning fresh treats like banana bread, brownies, apple pies and of course their famous chocolate cakes (to die for). Their new loca6 tion FRANKIES is perfect; right in front of the is becoming an anchor Aspier, soonDee’s as it opened, is becoming one destination for several faithful of the new favorite Italian restaurants. customers that never miss They sell delicious, thin crust pizza. the beautiful sunsets of PV.

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on commissions, and preparing for gallery shows. You can be 3 assured that your originals and giclee prints will have the expression that you would expect, and the highest quality works available on the market. Kathleen personally signs and numbers each hand embellished, limited edition giclee

Lázaro Cárdenas esq. Olas Altas 209 0639

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Kathleen Carrillo Gallery

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They also have incredible pastas and salads, their Italian chef, who definitely knows his way around the kitchen and their –Italian owner guarantee you are eating an authentic Italian Mangiare.

Prices are low to moderate. Try their Italian wines; the list is small but carefully selected.

Celebrating the Colorful Magic of Life

her MEXICANO husband and writer 7 CORAZON Andrew Marcus, reside in Located One block away of the Lázaro the Jungles just outside of Puerto Cárdenas Park this place has a modern Vallarta, along the Rio Cuale. Here, shabby chic new Center they run essence. their ArtThis Retreat restaurant is starting with the has her and Studio. Kathleen autumn's discounts from mastersspecials, degreewith in fine art specia3pm to 6pm.

Come and enjoy the lizing in painting and printmaking.

She has been for over delicious flavors, theypainting are now serving twenty years, and has national the traditional Chiles enhogada, whichand acclaim. isinternational made just in this season, so don´t Her works are strawberry found in public miss it. Their lime and and private collections throumargaritas are great and the best, on ghout the world and she has Friday it´s 2x1 won many awards. Her original This is definitely romanticafter casualand at the images are sought sold same as being family and pet quitetime frequently before they are friendly. complete. She is often working

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and guarantees your purchase with a certificate of authenticity.

Look for her art at her new location at Constitución 325 next to Banderas Bay Trading Company, just around the corner from where her gallery used to be.

They also reside part of the year in Sarasota, Florida where she produces her many giclee editions.

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Restaurants 1: Oscars 2: River Cuale 3: Serrano's Meat 4: Mama Rosa 5: Mole de Jovita 6: Frankies 7:Corazon Mexicano 8: Mariscos Filos 9: Dee´s Coffee Company 10: Iyari

9 DEE´S COFFE COMPANY/To Diee´s for The best coffee shop in town by far, they bake every morning their fresh bread that includes delicacies like; banana bread, brownies, apple pies and of course their famous chocolate cakes (to diee´s for). Their new location suits perfect; right in front of the pier, Dee's is becoming anchor destination for several costumers whom never miss the most beautiful sunsets in PV.

This week´s special All pasta and 1 glass of “Vino tinto de Gaza”

only $129 PESOS Venustiano Carranza 276 Tel. 322 223 2267 Venustiano Carranza 276 Tel. 322 223 2267

Francisca Rodriguez 117 Tel. 322 222 1197

Francisca Rodriguez 117 Tel. 322 222 1197

Friday Oct 31 - Nov 6, 2014

SPORTS / Entertainment 10

www.vallartatribune.com

Random thoughts from the Tribune Sports desk

By Joel Hansen

I

t’s nice to be back in our little slice of heaven. I have returned from the frozen tundra of Canada and as the memories of scraping ice from car windows begins to fade and my tan begins to return, I am here again to offer a few pointless views on the world of sports. -As I write this Game Seven of the World Series is tonight.

As a lifelong fan of the Cardinals there is no way I can cheer for the Giants, as usual they beat my Cardinals in the NLCS in heartbreaking fashion. And as a kid I loved George Brett and have always loved the KC hat and logo but for the past almost 30 years that has been all there is to love about them; a cool logo and a player who retired when I was 15.

But here they are, poised to win one more game and the final World Series in the Bud Selig era. It would be a fitting end to his tenure if a small market team like the Royals win - even if they play baseball like a bunch of little leaguers.

-What do you do if you are a complete ass and media hound who used to play/cheat at baseball? Well, if you are Jose Cansenco you allegedly shoot yourself in the hand by accident with a pistol in your own home according to reports from the Las Vegas PD. Thankfully his teenage daughter tweeted out that her

dad is doing fine, so we can all breathe easier. -NCAA released their first CFP rankings for the new playoff format beginning this season. A few surprises.

The two teams with zero loses are on top, so the local PV chapter of the Florida State boosters will be happy. And of course I am happy because Alabama was not ranked in the top five. If you read my column at all, you know how I feel about that rat Nick Saban, who incidentally just had his 3.2 million dollar mortgage paid off by an Alabama alum group further fuelling my dislike for him.

Nice to see Oregon in the five spot and a little surprised by the number ten ranking for Notre Dame, but there is still half a season left and there are a lot of changes still to come.

-Locally, the Puerto Vallarta Torpedoes American Football team continues their domination.

The senior team has not lost a game in nearly three years and have sent many players to universities in both Mexico and the United States on scholarship.

The team runs an American style academy with emphasis on both football and education and works closely with a number of primary and secondary schools.

If you have a son or daughter who is interested in playing, please contact Coach Luis Miguel at 322 108 3900 for more information.

The age ranges from 5 to 18.

-And finally my return to Puerto Vallarta means it’s time to get back to work on my Spanish lessons.

I had been worried that my extended stay in Canada would allow all that knowledge to slip from between my ears, however I am pleasantly surprised by how muchI have retained and is a testament to the hard work of the teachers at the Spanish Experience Center.

If they can teach a dope like me, they can help you learn the language with no problems. www. spanishexperiencecenter.com If you are out and about this weekend look for me on Friday night at Solar for the big Halloween party and you can find me watching sports most other days up at Que Pasa.

The Palm Cabaret and Bar launches 15th Anniversary Season Spencer Day, ‘Greater Tuna’ and Alec Mapa headline opening week

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he Palm Cabaret and Bar will open their 15th anniversary season on November 17th with Spencer Day, the popular recording artist who, since his warmly received debut at The Palm in 2014, has traveled the globe and released his brand new, chart-topping, critically acclaimed album,‘Daybreak’.

“Audiences regularly rave about Spencer’s performances at The Palm. His great stories and velvet voice appealed to

everyone and we’re thrilled he’s back to open our 15th season!” says Tracy Parks, entertainment director.

Also, in the works for many months and opening Nov. 19th at 7pm is ‘Greater Tuna’ a comedy about the third-smallest town in Texas (Tuna) where ‘The Lions Club is too liberal and Patsy Cline never dies’. One of the most popular plays ever produced, it ran for 30 years (all over the world but mostly in Texas) inclu-

ding a stint on Broadway and two command performances at The White House before the original creators, Joe Sears, Jaston Williams and Ed Howard retired.

Opening night is November 19th at 7pm.

Rounding out opening week will be another Vallarta debut from Alec Mapa, affectionately known as every one's favorite ‘gaysian’ from ABC’s ‘Ugly Betty’ and ‘Desperate Housewives’.

Alec will perform his popular one

man show, ‘Baby Daddy’ where he tells of his hilarious journey with his partner to adopt a son.

‘Baby Daddy’ will open Nov. 21 @ 9:30pm and run through The Palm is launching a new matinee series this season at 4pm. Shows include Paco Ojeda’s Birthday Tributes to legends such as Juan Gabriel and Bette Midler, among many others. Mikki Prost brings her ‘Shades of the Blues’ show to The Palm starting in December

and many of the nightly shows will also feature new matinees.

The Palm is well-known for bringing top notch, cutting-edge entertainment to Vallarta. Inside you’ll find an intimate, completely refurbished 90-seat theatre creating the ambiance of cabarets from days gone by. Shows are scheduled seven nights per week with two (and sometimes three with their new 4pm matinees) different shows daily through mid-April 2015.

ENTERTAINMENT 11

www.vallartatribune.com

Friday Oct 31 - Nov 6, 2014

Weeping Willow

Perceptions

Art and passion with a bicultural flavor

of Art

Mexico and Canada are at the roots of Weeping Willow, a film and television production company that seeks to establish itself in the quality content market in North America.

By Marcia Blondin marciavallarta@gmail.com

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By Antonio Vázquez

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assionate is the right word to describe Weeping Willow, a film and television production company that contains the best of two countries: Mexico and Canada. Andrea Martínez Crowther –who has both Mexican and Canadian roots– heads up the company that has been involved in co-productions that cross borders.

One of its most notable movies is Ciclo, filmed in 2009 but released in 2012.

The movie was the first with the seal of the Weeping Willow production company, though years earlier, Andrea Martínez had already filmed another movie whose rights were sold.

“When Ciclo premiered, so did Weeping Willow. The English name is not meant to be anti-Mexican but is because of my bicultural origin.

One of the goals of the company is to export content. I am bilingual, I am bicultural, I know how to speak to audiences outside of Mexico, to speak culturally.

They love the things we have done for Canada,” says Martínez Crowther, who is strongly attached to her cultural and family roots.

That passion for her two cultures and her family history was captured in Ciclo.

The film documents the bike trip made by Arthur and Gustavo Martínez (Andrea’s father and uncle) to Canada. Fiftythree years earlier, the brothers had made the same 5,600-mile journey between Mexico City and Toronto, mounted on their two-wheelers. On their first trip, they left only with bikes, 100 usd and two changes of clothes.

This time, they were accompanied by a whole productionteam that recorded each push of the pedals as they visited the same points they did half a century before.

“I grew up with this story; it is part of my family, of my own bicultural origin. My father met my mother in Canada and returned to Mexico,” says the filmmaker.

For the production of Ciclo, Andrea Martínez had access to funds from both Mexico and the US. The story of the two men, who are now over 70 years of age, drew attention in both countries.

The film allowed the head of Weeping Willow to explore other fields, such as television content.

Thus, the production company has mixed the two media in order to create quality productions.

The company’s first television project is called Ingredients for a Good Life. It is a series of programs presented by Amanda Martínez –a Mexican-Canadian singer and cousin of Andrea– who travels through different regions of Mexico analyzing the local culture.

“It is about presenting the lesser-known regions of Mexico to the Canadian public. We wanted to build confidence among Canadians that they can eat anywhere in Mexico and feel safe, that they can travel to Mexico safely,” explains Martínez Crowther.

Ingredients for a Good Life now has six episodes that capture the richness of San Luis Potosí and another six addressing the beauty of Baja California.

Another project is Bicycle Diaries, a production broadcast by TV-UNAM (National Autonomous University of Mexico) that recounts the experience of people who use bikes to commute to work, home, school, for exercise or just for fun.

“Bicycle Diaries is a great

product for export, since people from France or the US are just as interested because it is a universal theme. There is a lot of material in Mexico to export,” points out Martínez Crowther, who has worked in international productions and considers that Mexico’s film industry has some excellent talent.

Mexican directors, photographers, and crews are acknowledged by professionals from other countries, she says.

The producer has engaged in dialogue with ProMéxico to plan a marketing strategy in other countries. For now, among her plans is to open offices in Canada and on Mexico’s border with the US. “We are working to position ourselves as a producer and exporter of quality television content; we will open offices in Tijuana and Toronto to generate co-productions that are seen both inside and outside of Mexico,” reveals Martínez Crowther.

Currently Weeping Willow is producing the program My Dancing Heart for Al Jazeera’s Viewfinder series. This documentary is an exploration of sensuality, romance and the possibility of love among senior citizens in Mexico City whose passion revolves around the danzón, a traditional slow moving dance which is very popular in Mexico. weepingwillow.mx Originally Published in Negocios, ProMexico October 2014

itting here trying to find appropriate words to describe Del Shores' act in the Red Room last Saturday night; with 'appropriate' being the operative word of that sentence.

Del Shores reminds me very much of Lenny Bruce mixed with a touch of Richard Pryor and George Carlin. Which means you wouldn't necessarily want to be sitting next to your parents in the audience. And to borrow from Lenny Bruce, Del Shores is not a comedian. He is Del Shores. He is funny as hell and only pissed me off twice...nothing is too sacred.

He felt so comfortable in the Red Room most of his "act" remained undone on his written pages. He embraced his audience and they hugged him back.

If you don't have tickets to see his next and last show on November 1st, get them at the box office. Add his brand new movie, Southern Baptist Sissies, having its international premiere at 7 pm, prior to Del's show, followed with a party WITH Mr. Shores and you have a perfect recipe for a stellar Saturday night at Act II Entertainment.

Voice of Vallarta auditions are done with call backs starting around mid November - I'll keep

you posted. V of V opening night is December 7th.

Had a tour through the Boutique's new digs over Nacho Daddy's restaurant.

The stage floor is the same size as in their old location and it is Vallarta's first dinner theatre.

I think the idea will really catch on and there isn't a bad seat in the house. I hope Ken and Karrie break a bunch of legs this season!

And, if you just want to see the show and do dinner another night, that's an option, too.

The Palm opens its season with Spencer Day in a couple of weeks. I fell in love with this young man last year - beautiful, interesting voice.

And he is endearing on stage; I am really looking forward to seeing him again.

Last but not least, while we are on the subject of opening acts, Assorted Fruits and Vegetables kicks off the Main Stage season at Act II on November 6th. Good grief! Like next week! I won't be reviewing this one because I'm in it. Maybe I can persuade my lovely editor to sit in my chair on Opening Night and let everyone know how great and funny this play is! Now if you'll excuse me, I have my own legs to break...

Francisco

By Terry Connell

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rancisco owns a video stand at the end of my block. I met him just after moving to Vallarta. He was sitting in a folding chair, thinning gray hair, a cigarette in hand, his he eyes smiling at anyone who ventured into his little corner of the world. After a few days of offering a quick greeting when I passed his cart, I decided to introduce myself. Francisco’s face lit up as he shook my hand and offered me a big, “Much Gusto!” He told me he was eighty-two years old, then apologized for not speaking better, but he’d suffered a stroke about a year earlier.

From then on, I made it a point to stop by and visit with Francisco whenever I could. Even on those days when I didn’t talk with him, I’d still see him from across the street, talking with customers, or sitting in the shade smoking. He became a touchstone in my new life, a friendly face in this new town I was calling home.

But the cigarettes, or age, or both, caught up with Francisco and one day I found his daughter working at his stand. She was there the next day, and the one after that.

When I asked about her father,

she told me Francisco had another stroke. A few weeks passed before I saw him again. At first, it was heartbreaking to see the effects of this most recent stroke. This vibrant, happy man was now using a cane to walk and had all but lost his ability to speak.

But Francisco’s strength and spirit could not be denied. Just a few short months after the stroke, I found him walking along the Malecon without his cane.

Then, I saw him using a street sign to work through some stretches and strength exercises. And while he hasn’t regained much of his speech, his eyes and smile continue to light up whenever someone approaches.

Thank you Francisco for reminding me that we have choices and even if our light is starting to fade, we can still shine.

Terry Connell is a licensed acupuncturist and yoga teacher practicing in Old Town, Vallarta (www.eastmeetseast.net). In his spare time he walks his dog and reads and writes. His first book, “Slaves to the Rhythm” was a Cowley Literary Award Finalist (www.terryconnell.net).

riviera nayarit 14

Friday Oct 31 - Nov 6, 2014

Fun on the Riviera Nayarit

Living In La Cruz

By Cindy Bouchard

By Cat Morgan www.rivieranayaritfun.com

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ola Riviera Nayarit and Banderas Bay folks! First, I would like to apologize for not mentioning the wonderful San Pancho Market / Mercado del Sol in the Riviera Nayarit market news last week! With an amazing successful first season last year, they are looking forward to opening this season on November 4th and every Tuesday thereafter from 9am to 2pm; located in the main plaza.

This market is filled with fresh local produce and so much more!

If you would like to get into the market contact Marta Sokolowska on their FBook page at Mercado del Sol. Every pueblo holds a different energy and San Pancho has been coined as the “Cultural Center” on the Riviera Nayarit. Visit San Pancho for a fun day and check it out for yourself!

Dia de Los Muertos

Dia de Los Muertos is a two day celebration beginning on Sunday, November 1st continuing through November 2nd. Throughout the cemeteries in all of the pueblos you will find altars created for deceased loved ones. This holiday is greatly celebrated and is a large part of the Mexican heritage and culture.

This 3000 year old ritual initially began in August, the 9th month of the Aztec Solar Calendar, and was celebrated for the entire month honoring the dead. This tradition continues today as families make altars in honor of a family member or loved one, or an outstanding community member that has benefited society that has passed away the previous year, and all loved ones.

The Day of the dead begins November 1st, and is the day that celebrates those who died as chil-

dren and is called the “Day of the Little Angels” or All Saints Day, and November 2nd is to celebrate the adults, and is also known as All Souls Day.

A Mexican View of the Afterlife

Many nationals in Mexico have a different view of the afterlife, as some of their beliefs include keeping your identity when you die, and then return for this day, the Dia de los Muertos. Many elaborate alters are created with painted skeletons and skulls that are dressed up to honor their loved ones. This shows respect and that they are not forgotten. Alters are a way to guide the spirits home.

People also dress up like “Catrina” or skeletons as part of the celebration with amazing make-up and lavish costumes.

Mexican folk art of the skeletons or calacas, which are very popular and sold all over the Riviera Nayarit and Mexico are made out of chocolate and sugar (for the kids) and paper mache. I am sure we will be seeing a lot of that at the La Cruz Sunday Market, which opens on November 2nd this season.

Gringo / Canadian Style Halloween Local kids will be walking around for some candy here and there, so you may as well have some candy in the casa;

www.vallartatribune.com

if they don’t get it all I am sure it will be eaten!

Every year Philo’s Bar in La Cruz hosts a huge gathering every Halloween (Friday October 31st) for the 200-300 kids that come by for tricks and treats. Bring a big bag of Halloween surprises for these kids and have a blast! The kids start coming around about dark, and the live music starts

around 8pm. Dress is costume if you like! This season Geo Uhrich (from Luna Rumba) will be joining Philo and the Mexican Shuffle Band playing his 5 string violin, nylon and electric guitars. A fun time for everyone!

Thanks so much for reading!

The season is only beginning!! So stay tuned for more fun and new events come our way. If you have any Riviera Nayarit news or entertainment, questions, comments please contact me, Cat Morgan, at Cat@RivieraNayaritFun.com Many Blessings of Love for your week!

Mercado Huanacxatle

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nticipation! Everyone is excited as the La Cruz Market reopens this Sunday, November 2nd from 10 am – 2pm. This spectacular event, so much more than just a market where people buy food and trinkets, was conceived at a party, five years ago, where five friends were discussing the bridges that had been washed out and how it was difficult to get to the stores to buy groceries.

I spoke with Jason FosterBarnes one of the founders of this magnificent concept about how it came about.

The original vision was 1) to support people of the region to sell their goods and 2) to provide locals with produce (and more) so they didn’t have to travel so far to shop. Pia, Myra, Alicia and Jason got together post party and brainstormed, agreeing culture was paramount!

Many of us are aware that there is music and children’s programs at the market but did you know that the cultural portion goes into the community, taking place most of the year even when the market isn’t running.

They’ve participated in schools with book and writing programs, mind/body respect and awareness classes, music shows and more.

They’ve brought counselors to families to help when challenges arise. They created a sports field for local youths to run, play and do what kids do! One of the latest endeavors is teaching English in the primary schools.

The concept that rules sales; the vendor has to bake it, grow it, sew it or transform it. No factory produced items allowed.

Every person working at the market gets paid, including organizers, maintenance, advertising, bathroom and venue cleanup, children’s event organization and more. The influx of tourism brought to town by the marina, the many music venues, world-class restaurants and the Mercado Huanacaxtle has created much success from its very first week.

Rumoured last year, some Sundays 10,000 people were at the market, Jason said no one officially counts but he believes that number is accurate.

When I asked him his vision for the market, he said no plastics in the garbage, organic composting and to continue to grow the cultural events that support the community.

The overflow of success to local businesses is what Jason calls energy overflow, love that!

“I love the La Cruz Market, I have been a vendor since our first season in the park. I love to set up my booth oceanfront every Sunday morning and see all the smiling faces of my wonderful loyal clients on the North side of the bay.”

Chantel Mann, Chantel Vintage Spoon Jewelry.

TRAVEL 15

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Road Trip: Aztlan – the Aztec birthplace Mexcaltitán, Nayarit

By Madeline Milne

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s the story goes; Aztlan, the birthplace of the Aztecs was a small island in the middle of a lagoon in northern Nayarit, and from this place they were instructed by their gods to go in search of a new homeland.

They would recognize this place when they found an eagle eating a snake on top of a cactus – hence today’s emblem on the Mexican flag. In the process they were further instructed to change their names from Aztec to Mexica. In 1091 they set out on pilgrimage and found Tenochtitlan which is now known as Mexico City.

All this happened just a few hours from our doorstep! Always up for a road trip, I have wanted to explore this little anthropological hotspot since I first heard of it.

With my boyfriend’s mother’s birthday an excellent excuse to travel to Tepic we made arrangements for the whole family to head to Mexcaltitan on the weekend.

Leaving Friday afternoon we headed north passing the yoga mecca of Sayulita and the world’s best quesadillas in Rincon de Guayabitos. Holding true we passed through the charming town of Compostela, driving through mist covered rolling countryside with eight-foot tall sugar cane fields and walls of wildflowers that host a hundred butterfly nectar sipping parties. We spent the night in Tepic before leaving late the next morning for the island.

The trip is about 100kms from Tepic continuing north on Highway 15 like you’re going to Mazatlan.

Follow the signs for Santiago Ixcuintla, the largest town in the north western side of Nayarit, 40 kms from the boat launch for Mexcaltitan and one of the most important agricultural centres in

Mexico for tobacco. The drive is natur-ific.

Deep-cut valleys with soaring waterfalls, orchard upon orchard of mango and citrus, forests of palms used for building palapas, and fields of sugar cane in the most brilliant neon greens. Hundreds of lagoons, internationally acclaimed for their bio-diversity make up the majority of the costal area where two important rivers, the Río Grande de Santiago and the Río San Pedro, enter the sea.

When you get to La Batanza, the boat launch, it doesn’t look like much. While in need of a fresh coat of paint, the boats are all floating and for 90 pesos they will transport you and up to four others (additional passengers are 20 pesos each), safely to Mexcaltitan. 300 pesos gets you a guided tour through the mangroves. The boat ride is about 15 minutes long and passes through a number of waterways. A little like Deliverance, you wouldn’t want to navigate these waters alone. Designated Marismas Nacionales, this protected area consists of a vast network of brackish coastal lagoons, mangrove swamps, mudflats, and marshes.

I counted five Great Blue herons, a handful of Garza Blancas (egrets) and dozens of little black ducks with yellow beaks (a birder I’m not). Captain Juan told us there are plenty of crocodiles in the water but we didn’t see any - thankfully. The people who

call this area home are predominately fishers, catching chiguil and shrimp using a unique netting system.

The town of Mexcaltitan is about 1000m around with the longest ‘road’ stretching 400m across. A friendly population of about 800, residents sit on plastic chairs in their open doorways selling various items. There are no cars on this island. No Oxxo’s.

No wifi but plenty of shrimp. Laid out on the sidewalks to dry, bright pink shrimps block your path everywhere you turn. Interestingly, the town’s dog population seems to ignore these tasty treats.

Perhaps they’re as tired of shrimp as the locals must be.

You can comfortably circumnavigate the entire town in about 30 minutes. The adobe homes all look similar. Most likely brightly painted when the town was applying for Pueblo Magico status, these homes are now worse for wear with crumbling walls and chipped paint creating interesting colours and textures. There are a couple larger, new homes that cause speculation. The houses on the outer edge of the island all open out onto the lake, many with their small fishing pangas moored alongside their back doors.

The centre of the island is the hub with the plaza, church and a small but interesting museum that has artefacts from ancient Meso-American cultures. Five pesos will get you in the door.

Friday Oct 31 - Nov 6, 2014

“

As usual, I was quick to imagine life on this tiny island and concluded it would be a great place for a weekend home; one of many weekend homes I have imagined across this country”

Here you will see copies of the original codices (pictograms) that depict the gods mandate to search for a new land. Considering that during rainy season the town’s roads floods and the only way around is by boat, this seems like sound advice. One display shows the map of Mexcaltitan beside Tenochtitlan with obvious similarities in layout. It is here that the original stone carving of the eagle with snake in its mouth was uncovered, now residing in the history museum in Tepic.

From the museum we headed over to Restaurante Alberca where we proceeded to consume a lifetime of shrimp. Not unlike Forest’s friend Bubba, there were a million ways to eat shrimp including; sun-dried and tossed in ketchup, salsa, lime and salt, deep fried and tossed with chilli, fried balls with a mayo dipping sauce, as a pate on Ritz crackers, stuffed into empanadas, served a la Diablo, in butter and garlic and encased in masa, rolled in corn husks and steamed, and the classic ensalada, soup and cocktail. We also ordered a Pescado Saraneado – fresh from the waters grilled fish, served with veggies and tortillas. Stuffed, we settled back with a couple cubetas of cervesa and a juke-box full of Banda that everyone else knew all the words to.

The peaceful swaying of the waters lapping the restaurant was interrupted only by the occasionally passing fishing boat and the ducks bobbing for fish. Rush hour was a boat of women retur-

ning home with their children and some shopping crossing paths with a fishing boat. What is particularly striking is how different the lives of the people are here from our own. As usual, I was quick to imagine life on this tiny island and concluded it would be a great place for a weekend home; one of many weekend homes I have imagined across this country.

An excellent day trip for amateur anthropologists, eating shrimp, and those interested in birding. It is one of the most prolific places on the planet for bird watching with over 350 species crossing these waters on their annual migration. While San Blas is the more popular jumping off point for birders, the pristine seclusion of the estuary/lagoon definitely appeals. There is no hotel on the island, though apparently there are some rooms available. Those interested in staying overnight would do better finding a comfortable bed in Santiago.

Looking at a map of the area, it would be an interesting weekend of camping (!) to explore the outer edges of the lagoons that meet with Pacific Ocean. Our captain hinted at beautiful secluded beaches and hidden coves perfect for exploring. There are a couple small towns that dot the shore and I imagine the freshness of the shrimp would be bar none.

Don’t forget your camera, bug spray and depending on the purpose of your trip, a cooler with cold beer purchased on the mainland will save you plenty of pesos.

Old Town Farmers Marke

The OTFM-TC Season Opener Is Finally Here!

Download 200,000+ brand logos in vector format for free http://www.logoeps.com/

By Erin Staley

“All local, all handmade. My kinda shopping!”

Kami, Manitoba, Canada

“This is my favorite Farmers Market. Do not miss this!”

Julie, Illinois, USA

“We love the hospitality, the variety of food and the amazing souvenirs. I wish we had one in our city!”

Jorge, Mexico City, Mexico

Feeling all tingly inside?

It’s time for happiness in the form of the Old Town Farmers Market-Tianguis Cultural.

This Saturday, we’re kicking off our 6th season, and now you can be a part of the market fun.

Get to Know the Market We’re a lively “make it, bake it, grow it” North American style market that celebrates the tradition and culture of Mexico’s outdoor tianguis markets. As registered non-profit/association civil organization, we focus on the “buy local” movement as well as entrepreneurial and community development.

Today, over 100,000 national and international shoppers come out every season to scoop up a wealth of one-of-a-kind goodies: • Farm-fresh produce and berries • Custom made bikinis and resort wear • Deli meats • Handcrafted jewelry, sandals and accessories • Natural body products • Pickles • Organic coffee • Artisan chocolates and ice cream • Refreshing agua frescas (flavored water) • Freshly cut tropical flowers • Greek yoghurt

• Nut butters • Eye-catching décor • Clothing for all ages • Prehispanic instruments, Huichol art and traditionally woven items • Fresh coconut water • Artisan breads • Traditional British fruit and meat pies • Greeting cards • Flavorful cheeses • Baked goods • Homemade dips, dressings, salsas and moles

Tempt Your Taste Buds

Don’t forget to bring your appetite as we have a great menu of International fare, including Thai, Indian, and traditional Mexican favorites (tacos, empanadas, burritos and green pozole).

We even have vegan entrees, such as hamburgers, al pastor and falafels.

Then satisfy your sweet tooth with cakes, cookies, sticky buns, chocolate-dipped bananas and much, much more!

Simply head on over to our new International Food Court which is located under shaded pergolas on the eastern side of Lazaro Cárdenas Park.

Relax and dine to the rhythms of local musicians, including this week’s performance brought to you

by Tatewari, a 4-member Flamenco guitar band.

A Full Season of Market Fun Come on out and enjoy the live music, wonderful weather, farm-fresh produce and artisan goods! Our 9:30 am ribbon-cutting festivities will start on Saturday, November 1, in Lazaro Cárdenas Park. This beautiful town square is located in Vallarta’s Emiliano Zapata neighborhood. For only 10 pesos an hour, you can park in the garage directly beneath Lazaro Cárdenas Park. Public buses and taxis also come this way with a Pino Suarez Street drop off, just steps from the market.

We’ll see you this Saturday (9:30-2) and every Saturday from November 1 to April 25.

If you have any questions, our Information Booth will be open during market hours.

And if you’d like to become an OTFM-TC vendor, volunteer or chef demonstrator, we’ll have applications on hand. For market updates in English – and now in Spanish – please visit www. oldtownfm.com and “like” us on Facebook.

et - Tianguis Cultural

Find us at Parque Lázaro Cárdenas Romantic Zone Saturdays 9:30 - 2:00 pm

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Artisan Bakery Artisan Bakery

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Artisan Bakery

Artisan Bakery

…where bread is an art.

Na tu rally leave ne d sou rd ou g h s pe cialt y b r ead s …where bread is ba ke d in ou r ow n ma so nry ov e n.

an art.

Na tu rally leave ne d sou rd ou g h s pe cialt y b r ead s ba ke d in ou r ow n ma so nry ov e n.

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…where bread is an art.

Na tu rally leave ne d sou rd ou g h s pe cialt y b r ead s ba ke d in ou r ow n ma so nry ov e n.

…where bread is an art.

Na tu rally leave ne d sou rd ou g h s pe cialt y b r ead s ba ke d in ou r ow n ma so nry ov e n.

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Heriberto Saucedo Pérez Artista Diseñador Cel. 3222.190 56 32 Fb: Heriko Joyeria herikajoyeria@hotmail.com Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

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LOCAL 18

Friday Oct 31 - Nov 6, 2014

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Off the Beaten Path

By Ariel O’Donnell arielod@hotmail.com

Vallarta Eats Food Tour

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’ve been living in Puerto Vallarta on and off for about eight years, and when October rolls around pretty much everyone starts to lose their minds. The long hot wet summer is over, but October delivers its own strange and somewhat stagnant weather.

Locals are on the precipice of the high season, so budgets are tight, as we wait for refugees from the polar vortex—evidently our friends up North are in for a doozy, if the predictions are correct!

This year I decided that I had to take some action, rather than moan and complain endlessly.

After all, I do live in Puerto Vallarta! Thousands of people visit your town, and only dream of spending their life down here. I definitely needed to rekindle some of the magic that I felt the first time I arrived.

“Maybe I need to take a tour and get a new perspective?” I

thought to myself. I’d repeatedly walked past the guides at the rendezvous point for the Vallarta Eats food tour on the Insurgentes bridge for the last several months, so I contacted them to see if I could tag along. They said YES! Shedding my hubris, I grabbed their complimentary tote bag, and offered myself up to wherever and whatever was on their itinerary.

I’m happy to report that this was perhaps my BEST decision in a long time.

Not only did I eat some terrific street food, but, I regained an appreciation for the beauty and charm of Old Town Vallarta!

The tour commenced at 10am (they offer several different tours throughout the day). I arrived in comfy shoes (a must!) slathered with sunscreen (I’m of Irish descent) and hungry (as suggested by the tour owner Eric).

We embarked on our journey, led by thoughtful and charming Estrella; a trained architect,

originally from Acapulco. Our group of six was comprised of: Me, a Scotsman (I know, I was impressed too!) and two couples, one from Vancouver, and the other from San Jose.

Our first stop was a birria taco stand. Estrella gave a thorough overview of taco etiquette (most of which was new to me) as we tucked into this breakfast treat.

The beef birria was tasty and subtle. We also sampled the birria consommé, with a sprinkle of crunchy cabbage, and had our first agua fresca of the day made of fresh fragrant guava.

Onto the next spot—which was actually more of a driveway than a street stand—where we enjoyed fried birria tacos (tacos dorados) and a very memorable taco made of heart, lungs, and liver (chanfayna).

Our Scotsman referred to it as the ”Haggis” taco. Both were impeccably fresh and flavorful.

Then onward and upward, to a hearty portion of rich and delicious “mixed” carnitas, (a combi-

nation of meat and the heavenly decadent deep fried pork skin) at a bustling and popular spot.

Four tacos in, and feeling a little full, Estrella led us on well-timed tour of the empire that is La Colin.

We heard some interesting background of this enterprising and generous family, who run a grocery, butcher, bakery and carnitas “factory” in an immaculate and very busy location.

More twists and turns, past several tortilla factories— according to Estrella, the squeaking sound of the tortilla machine is a beacon that leads locals to their hot fresh daily staple.

Up and over the hill to merge with the finest fish taco that I’ve ever had! FRESH mahi mahi served in a CRUNCHY coating and with a wild a delicious soy-based sauce that is truly the essence of the new trendy term “umami”.

Then we tooled past the tunnel to the Emilio Zapata Mercado for a lesson in correctly rolling a salt taco. Estrella also answered

our questions about some of the more mysterious produce, and explained the difference between the various green skinned citrus fruits, including the chi chi (boobie) lime (see photo).

When I couldn’t imagine that there would be anymore, we were treated to a fresh ceviche tostada with the most fantastic salsa of braised red onions.

A little sweet, a little spicy and a little vinegary. I have to say that the condiments at each location were unique and exciting, and when property applied to a taco, turned the humble meat or fish in a tortilla into a taste and textural feast.

Our final taco was a pepper stuffed with a variety of seafood.

Perfectly cooked and quite spicy.

I could only finish half as I myself was quite STUFFED. Fortunately it was dessert time, and that allowed us an opportunity to retreat into a cool paleteria (popsicle stand). Estrella surprised us with refreshing frozen washcloths that she’d kept hidden in her bag.

We wrapped up the tour in a traditional dulceria (candy shop) to enjoy a multitude free samples, and were afforded the opportunity to buy some treats for our friends back home.

Estrella handed out maps and helped everyone orient themselves to the layout of old town.

And we bid her adieu.

To find out more, visit the Vallarta Eats Food Tours website at: vallartaeats.com.

In my next installment, I’ll follow our friends at Vallarta Food tours.

Stay tuned.

EVENTS 19

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Banderas Bay Initiative

By María del Mar Zamora maria@fundacionpuntademita.org

Good deeds and good fun at Oktoberfest

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elebrate Oktoberfest on November 12th (6pm to 9pm) with the American Legion and Navy League to support your community. These two groups have a large impact: rehabilitating schools, playgrounds and the facilities of several non-profits through their community relations program.

Many spots around Banderas Bay have been given a new life through their volunteer efforts.

So encourage their spirits and help them raise the money they need to tackle more projects this coming year by buying tickets to their Oktoberfest fundraiser held at Hacienda Alemana in Old Town. Tickets are $450 pesos and include a continuous buffet and draft beer. You can also participate in the 50/50 raffle and live

auction (you can double your help by bringing an item to auction).

Entertainment will be provided by “Los Polvitos de Jalisco” – fourteen children between the ages of eight and sixteen who perform mariachi music!

These two groups offer wonderful service opportunities, whether in becoming a full time member or simply in a one-time contribution of your time. In the past year they have adopted the playground and park in Aurora (behind Sam’s Club).

Working with the Institute for Family Development (DIF) they have gone beyond with a new coat of paint in fixing nets, swings, fences and even starting a basketball team.

This coming year they will bring their goodwill and hard work to the DIF orphanage and old folk’s home. These two facilities suffer from lack of funding and serve a population that is often neglected and could sure use your help!

So eat some delicious German fare and meet some new friends while supporting a great cause.

Tickets can be purchased at Steve’s Sports Bar or Carol’s Boutique (both on Basilio Badillo in Old Town) or from any Navy League or American Legion Member. For more information or tickets please call Dennis Rike (044-322-138-8891). You can also find more information about American Legion at www.americanlegion14.org or Navy League at www.vallartanavyleague.org.

Friday Oct 31 - Nov 6, 2014

Would you like to include your non profit event announcement in the Vallarta Tribune? Please send details directly to editor@vallartatribune.com Maximum 50 words. Deadline is Monday for Friday distribution.

October 31st Costume Party at Sonar 9pm-2am No Cover Día De Los Muertos Oct. 31-Nov. 2, 2014 A celebration of life in death, this colourful Mexican tradition remembers loved ones who have passed with festivities. In the main plaza of Puerto Vallarta you will find an altar competition along with a parade along the Malecon on November 2nd.

Old Town Farmers Market Opens November 1st, 2014 The popular farmers market that goes by the ‘make it, bake it, grow it!’ motto opens for its 6th season in Lazaro Cardenas Park in Old Town. With about 80 vendors offering hand produced creations to over 800 shoppers each week, this is a must-stop event every Saturday.

First Annual Vallarta Golf Classic November 1st, 2014 The only public library in Puerto Vallarta has teamed up with Marina Vallarta Golf Club to raise funds for cultural projects at the library.

WHEN: Saturday November 1st at 9am WHERE: Marina Vallarta Golf Course WHAT: Four Person Scramble COST: $87usd ($1100 pesos) Lunch only $25usd Prizes, Complimentary Food, Award Ceremony In support of Los Mangos Library and Augies Quest to Cure ALS To register and more info call the Marina Vallarta Pro Shop at 322.221.0073 or email david. quiroz@ourclub.com OCTOBERFEST November 2nd, 6-9 pm Celebrate Octoberfest with The Navy League & The American Legion, at Hacienda Alemana 378, Basilio Badillo. Live music and lots of gifts to be raffled.

All you can eat buffet, wine and beer - 450 Pesos Funds will be used for Community Relations Projects. For tickets please contact Fred and Dorothy Piontkowski at :322-209-0064

Kitty Bingo November 5th, 5pm Purr Project Kitty Bingo is back!!

We’ve spent all summer gathering great prizes, getting lots of 50/50 raffle tickets ready, lining up some spectacular half-time entertainment, and practicing our best number-calling voices. This year, you’ll find us beside the pool under the beautiful new indoor palapa at the Los Arcos Hotel on Olas Altas in Old Town, between Kaiser Maximilian and Derby City Burgers. Look for the Kitty Bingo signs! There will be special food and drink prices for bingo players, as well as wonderful ocean breezes!

Held every other Wednesday at 5:00pm through April Corazón de Niña Breakfast Nov. 7th, 9:30 am The girls of Corazon de Niña need our help! 9:30 am at Bravos Restaurant on Francisco I Madero 263. A suggested donation of 250p. There will be door prizes, a raffle and a tequila draw.

Tickets at Carol’s Boutique on Basilio Badillo and Kristina’s Salon at the Marina.

Corazón de Niña is a home for girls who come from high risk situations such as abandonment, negligence, and physical, emotional, or sexual abuse.

For more information see www.corazondenina.mx HUGE GARAGE SALE! November 8-9, Marina Vallarta Purrr Project is hosting a Garage Sale with all proceeds benefiting the 150+ cats at the Purr Project shelter. Some great items including lots of gently-used men’s and women’s clothing, purses, furniture, appliances, household items, tools—you name it, we probably have it!

Saturday: 8:00am to 5:00pm Sunday: 11:00am to 5:00pm

Gaviotas #143 in the Marina Turn into the Marina at the whale statue; take first right onto Pelicanos, next right is Gaviotas.

Veterans/Remembrance Day Nov. 11th, 10:00 am To honor service members of the U.S. and Canadian armed forces the American Legion is organizing a Veteran’s / Remembrance memorial on November 11th. The event will take place at Steve’s Sports Bar on Basilio Badillo in Old Town at 10:00am.

There will be a small parade as well as music and time for remembrance.

International Sailfish & Marlin Tournament Nov. 12-15, 2014 Sponsored by the Puerto Vallarta Fishing Club, the Puerto Vallarta International Sailfish and Marlin Tournament celebrates its 59th year. In effort to recognize conservation efforts changes have been made to this year’s event including only marlin of over 220 lbs, sailfish of more than 77 lbs, tuna over 66 lbs, and mahi-mahi over 22 lbs will qualify.

Exciting prizes and events surround the tournament.

International Festival Gourmet Nov. 13-23, 2014 Vallarta’s most popular gourmet festival celebrates its 20th anniversary this year with 29 restaurants participating in Vallarta and the Riviera Nayarit.

Local chefs work alongside international chefs to create exceptional meals on specially priced menus.

Visit FestivalGourmet.com.

Help 400 young Becados (scholarship students) keep receiving their scholarships and enjoy a delicious breakfast at one of Vallarta’s top restaurants.

Raffle prizes and a silent

EVENTS 20

Friday Oct 31 - Nov 6, 2014

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Catrina comes to La Cruz - Dia de Los Muertos - La Cruz style auction 150 pesos cost Tickets must be purchased in advance from any member of Becas or contact Polly Vicars at phvicars@ gmail.com or 223-1371 is a foundation dedicated to raising money to provide scholarships to public schools for Puerto Vallarta’s young people, 8th grade through university.

Bucerias Entertainment is getting underway, along with the renovations at Breakers! A note from Colin with the Breakers Beach Bar Update: “We are very happy to be back open again after our renovations. We are gearing up for our grand re-opening Saturday, November 1st. See you all soon.”

BECAS BREAKFASTS: November 19, 2014 – Vitea, December 17, 2014, LaPalapa, Jan 21, 2015 – Daiquiri Dick’s, February 18, 2015– River Café March 7, 2015– Becas Ball, April 15, 2015 Coco’s Kitchen.

And Simon and Hugh are back and preparing for a terrific season at Luna Lounge with “Those Crazy Bitches” kick starting the season. Their hilarious shows run every Tuesday, beginning November 11th, 2014 and also on Wednesdays beginning January 7th, 2015.

International Fireworks Festival December 20 – 31st, 2014 This eleven day fireworks festival will play host to five countries as well as five states.

Each nightly display will last 20 minutes and be launched from three locations to ensure optimal viewing across the bay.

Other Events Riviera Nayarit

around

Mark’s Bar and Grill opens for lunch mid November.

They are one of the Bucerias Restaurants that stay open all year around for us locals! Enjoy the amazing layered flavors created by Chef Jan Benton out on the beautiful patio setting.

the

January 24th, 2015 4th Annual TASTE OF LA CRUZ Marina Riviera Nayarit in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle 3-7pm TASTE OF LA CRUZ will feature restaurants, businesses, artisans and musicians from Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta.

Wednesday February 4th, 2015 John Ozzello memorial food bank fundaiser Enjoy a day of Whale Watching as well as helping to support the local food bank. $650pp 9am-4pm leaving Paradise Village Marina in Nuevo Vallarta Tickets: Sandi or Randy Nystrom 322-103-2828 or rsnystrom@hotmail.com

La Cruz de Huanacaxtle entertainment is taking off!

At Pub Britannia join in on the fun for Monday Game Night; come and join in on a game of cards, Every Tuesday a REAL Open Night starting at 6pm, and Bingo Wednesdays beginning at 3pm. They always have food and drink specials announced that evening.

Ana Banana Bar and Grill is jamming with Classic Rock and Roll Monday, Wednesdays live on stage R&R Hardly Strictly Blues with Randy and Russell and the Hardly Strictly Blues Band; music begins at 7pm, Friday’s are Rock and Roll Donny and the 5 Months

November 1st - Dia de Los Niños Muertos - 7pm Arriving by boat, a giant Catrina will travel through the plaza and town visiting the altars with children dredded up parading behind her.

Five local schools are participating in the festivities. Should make for excellent photography!

November 2nd - Dia de Los Muertos - Noon During the opening of the La Cruz Farmers Market, Catrina will arrive again by boat to the La Cruz Marina and visit the vendors and altars along the market.

Blind Band. Come and kick up your heels and swing to some fun rock and roll. Live music starts at 7pm.

Masala Bar and Grill are open with new dishes this season like this Appetizer Sesame Crusted Yellow Fin Tuna on Slice Cucumber with Soy Ginger Sauce.

Black Forest Restaurant is having the last October week of their 15% off on all the food and beverages discounts.

Live music with Latcho and Andrea start mid November.

San Blas National Conservation Week is back, and will be held on October 28th through November 1st. Have fun and explore the expos, conferences and workshops.

This is geared to help folks become more informed about the San Blas mangroves and the animals that live there, as well as the history of San Blas.

For more information please contact the organizers at sncsanblas2014@gmail.com or call 045 (323) -117-1829 for this (mostly) Free event.

Other Events around the Riviera Nayarit compiled by Cat Morgan If you have any Riviera Nayarit news or entertainment, questions, comments please contact me, Cat Morgan, at Cat@ RivieraNayaritFun.com

Charity 21

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Non-Profit and Charitable Organizations

Charity in Vallarta

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or 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.

By Frank K. Meyer

Yolanda’s Dream Comes True!

O

ne Friday morning, my wife, Conchita and I along with Eileen O’Leary had the opportunity to visit Pasito De Luz, which is the childcare center in the Pittial area, located Exiquio Corona 545 Col. Bobadilla.

We arrived early, and we played with the children as best one can, as many more started to arrive. In no time at all, all four of the little rooms were overflowing with these challenged children ready for their breakfast. One little one, who I thought to be about two, already had her stomach attached to her feeding tube. I found out later that she is 5 years old. In spite of all of their challenges, they are a very happy group of children.

Our mission this morning was more than just to visit Yolanda and the children. Eileen O’Leary’s Theatre On The Bay, has just completed a season of three plays at the NH Krystal, and had two special benefit performances which all the proceeds were earmarked to go to Pasitos De Luz. We were here now to deliver that check. Looking around at the needs, I could see that they could easily use ten times what we were able to raise, but I know that there are many others out there that are helping this worthy cause.

But Yolanda needs much more than just money, she needs people who care to come and to visit and show these children love.

Even if you don’t have money to give, surely you can spare a little love for these children.

In 2011 Yolanda met Peter and Teena Oudman, who are also known as Casa Connor, at Villa de Palmar Flamingos. It was Robert Kistner, Vice President of the Villas Group that introduced them.

Robert’s wife, Ana Kistner, donated two and a half acres of her land to this project.

They felt that it was a perfect match; Pasitos de Luz and Casa Connor. Peter and Teena had a grandson who had Hunters

Friday Oct 31 - Nov 6, 2014

Syndrome (MPS II) and died from this disease at 15 years of age.

Losing their grandson Connor changed their whole lives.

They dedicated themselves to help other children who suffered from disabilities by raising the funds necessary to do so Pasitos de Luz supports more than 140 children in total but can only support a small number on any given day due to the size of their current building. CASA Connor is now in partnership with Pasitos de Luz to assist in building a larger facility to accommodate their high demand.

Every year they have a Fiesta in Calgary to raise funds for this building project Construction for the new Casa Connor facility for Pasitos de Luz began in November 2011.

This 15,000 square foot facility, built to look like a Disneyland castle, will house multiple therapy and education centers, a therapy pool, respite rooms and a large kitchen to provide meals. It will be able to accommodate over 200 children daily.

The project is about 50% percent completed but construction had to be put on hold in the summer of 2014 due to lack of funds.

There have been fundraisers and one important one is coming up here in PV by Eagles Wings Foundation, the charity group of the Universal Vacation Club.

Also there will be 2 fundraisers this fall in Alberta, Canada, supported by the owner of Bacha’s restaurant here in the Marina Vallarta. We hope to raise enough money to be able to start construction again and to continue until it is completed far enough so we can start using it. It is Yolanda Sanchez’s (Founder and Director of Pasitos de Luz) dream to create this extensive facility to provide loving care the children at Pasitos need to enrich their lives.

It is only through the dedication of our volunteers and the generosity of the people in our communities that we can make a difference in the lives of those less fortunate.

We look forward to working with you to achieve this goal.

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

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 Corazon de Nina - A safe, loving, home-environment for 20+ girls rescued from high-risk situations. Donations & volunteers always welcome! Totally selffunded. www.corazondenina.mx abundancia@corazondenina.mx

American Legion Post 14: raises resources and manpower to improve facilities needing building maintenance www.americanlegion14.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

Asilo San Juan Diego Home for the Elderly - Contact: Lupita Sanchez Covarrubias 222-1257 or malupita88@ hotmail.com or www.mexonline.com\ asilosanjuandiego.htm

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

Asociación Down - Assistance to persons with Down’s Syndrome – Contact: Ana Catalina Eisenring at 224-9577.

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

Banderas Bay Women’s Shelter - Safe shelter for women & children victims of domestic violence. www.compassionforthefamily.org

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

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

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

Bucerias Bilingual Community Center: Supporting families, seniors in Bucerias. www.buceriasbilingualcommunitycenter.org

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

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

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

Horizonte de Paz: Shelter for men of all ages who are troubled with alcohol & drug addiction. Donato Schimizzi: 322 199 9523 La Brigada de la Basur:a A weekly meeting of neighborhood chil-

dren 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 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. 322-2225466. ifcvallarta.com. ifcvallarta@gmail. com.

Friday Oct 31 - Nov 6, 2014

CLASSIFIEDS 22

Tianguis and Farmer’s Markets

IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS

A

Emergency Phone Numbers

ll the towns have some type of weekly market. In Banderas Bay and Riviera Nayarit we are blessed with many excellent farmer’s, artisan and co-op markets. Most are open from 9am – 2pm unless stated.

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.

Bucerias Farmers Market - Wednesdays At Rosa Mexicana - starting in November

Ambulance Services

Bucerias Monday Market - Mondays Artwalk Plaza, starting Nov 3rd

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

Bucerias Tianguis - Year-round Sundays In the arroyo (riverbed) on the far side of the highway

Hospitals

Guayabitos Tianguis – Mondays year-round In the main plaza

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

La Cruz Sunday Mercado Sundays At the La Cruz Marina Starting Nov. 2nd Largest Farmer’s Market in the Bay wth 200+ vendors La Cruz Tianguis Year-round Wednesday Below the glorietta in town

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

La Penita Tianguis – Thursday year-round Largest Market in Nayarit - excellent for crafts Lo de Marcos Tianguis – Saturdays 9-2pm New local market - Starting November 1st Marina Vallarta Market – Thursdays Starting November 6th Havre No.111 Col. Versalles Fluent Englis Spoken

Old Town Farmers Market –Saturdays Starting Nov. 1st in Lazaro Cardena Park, in Old Town Over 80 Vendors San Pancho Market / Mercado del Sol Opening Tuesday Nov 4th Every Tuesday from 9am-2pm In the Main Plaza Sayulita’s Farmer’s Market – Fridays Begins November 7th Excellent selection of Organics – some of the best coffee in the area.

Emergency Phone for Sayulita

Southside Market – Coming Soon Check back here next week for more details.

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.

Tianguis Artesanal Nuevo Vallarta –Saturdays Starting Nov 8th – At the plaza behind Oxxo

PICK UP YOUR COPY OF THE TRIBUNE AT

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

www.vallartatribune.com

Vallarta´s only English newspaper

TOURISM OFFICES SATURDAY MARKET A PAGE IN THE SUN FREDY TUCAN´S PANCAKE HOUSE CONSULATE OFFICES YO-YO MO´S MARINA RIVIERA NAYARIT

www.vallartatribune.com

SUDOKU

easy

BRAIN TEASERS 23

Friday Oct 31 - Nov 6, 2014

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

medium

Number Blocks

hard

Word Search

What’s a number block you ask?

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

Can you find the hidden names? They may be horizontal, vertical, diagonal, forwards or backwards. ANN BAXTER, AUDREY HEPBURN, AVA GARDNER, BETTE DAVIS, CAROLE LOMBARD, GLORIA SWANSON, GRETA GARBO, HEDY LAMARR, INGRID BERGMAN, JANE RUSSELL, JANE WYMAN, JEAN HARLOW, JEAN SIMMONS, JOAN CRAWFORD, JUDY GARLAND,LANA TURNER, LAUREN BACALL, MARILYN MONROE, MERLE OBERON, MYRNA LOY, RITA HAYWORTH, VERONICA LAKE,VIRGINIA MAYO, VIVIEN LEIGH.

1. Loan - Pool - Great White 2. Clog - Pump - Flat 3. Rain - Fur - Trench 4. Silver - Tin - Nickel 5. Coffee - Oil - Air 6. Tulip - Lamp - Onion 7. Saturn - Dirty Shirt Collars - Newleyweds 8. Date - Cook - Phone 9. Spock - Suess - Phil 10. Fire - Soda – Safe

Commonym 7 Answers 1. sharks 2. shoes 3. coats 4. metals 5. filters 6. they have bulbs 7. they have rings 8. books 9. doctors 10. crackers

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 7 Answers 1. Cry all the way to the bank 2. The stakes are high 3. That’s too bad 4. Eyes in the back of my head 5. Miniskirt 6. All in All

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.