Issue 921, November 28-December 04 , 2014

Catch us online @ vallartatribune.com

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News VALLARTA´S NEW TAXI´S

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Nov 28 - Dec 4, 2014 Free Issue 921

Local

houseguests arriving

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Entertainment local theater

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Photo Bud Ellison

12 great days

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welcome 02

Friday Nov 28 - Dec 4, 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

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

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

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-todate 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!

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 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.

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.

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.

Flower of the Week

Sandra Cesca

Dwarf Poinciana Tabachin del Monte (Spanish) Caesalpinia pulcherrima

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

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eacock Flower. A striking ornamental tropical bush, widely grown in domestic and public gardens. A member of the pea family, its beautiful flowers in yellow, red and orange are attractive to butterflies. Although the seeds are poisonous, an extract of the roots has long been used in folk medicine to induce abortions. This plant is one of over 200 found in Sandra’s color-coded guidebook, Tropical Plants and Walks of

Calling in Mexico

Ambulance: 322.222.1533

Puerto Vallarta. Available at the Vallarta Botanical Gardens’ gift shop www.vbgardens.org, Page in the Sun Bookstore, and from

Sandra at the Farmer’s Market on Saturdays. Information on her many area walks can be found at: www.escaperoutevallarta.com.

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

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his past week my mother came to visit. She comes every year in November and then again in the spring and sometimes, when she’s feeling particularly chilled, in July. November is her favourite time of year because the rains have stopped but the foliage is still green and lush and there are butterflies everywhere. Fun Fact: Did you know in the Mismaloya valley there over 300 species of butterflies?

Always on the hunt for an elusive, as of yet, unfound butterfly, we headed out of the city limits to try our luck first in Yelapa and then in El Tuito. We also spent the day at the Vallarta Botanical Gardens – read more about butterfly hunting at VBG on page 6. In Yelapa we stayed in a lovely condo overlooking the bay just outside of town (yelapatoday.com). We hiked up to the ‘little’ waterfall and while my mom carried on up the river, I settled into a beach recliner and worked on my faded tan.

This quiet beach town is the perfect place to catch up on some reading, chill out and enjoy the simple pleasures of beach life (seafood, cervesa, sun). With

something for everyone, we tried (almost) all of it: fresh ceviche and seafood cocktails, tacos at Abuelas for dinner, Piña Coladas on the beach, paddle boards on the bay, hiking up the river in search of butterflies, collecting sea glass, and taking in the gorgeous views.

One night isn’t really long enough but it was a great reminder to make more time in the future to come back for some serious decompressing.

On the way back to Vallarta we crossed paths with a pair of mating humpback whales who let us join in on the festivities, raising tail and fin out of the water, splashing and blowing mist high into the air, much to the delight of the 20 plus passengers on the Yelapa water taxi.

Yesterday we headed out for a quick trip to El Tuito about 50kms south of Vallarta.

The windy road was almost free of potholes and we only got stuck behind two gas tankers.

(It’s inevitable – gas tanker or Pepsi truck.) We were told to stop at the bakery in the rock, which we sped past only to do a quick u-turn to stop and enjoy fresh out of the oven, cream cheese filled empanadas. At only $5 pesos each, we ate ourselves sick.

Thankfully the Agua de Coco truck drove by and we washed it down with 100% cream of coconut (no leche, pura coco).

Feeling more than a little guilty for the million unnecessary calories, we were determined to find a place for a hike in El Tuito. What’s difficult about hiking in Mexico is trails are not marked and until someone shows you the way it can be a challenge to get much

Friday Nov 28 - Dec 4, 2014

further than the main street and around the plaza. My mom asked for a long dirt road and we found one that followed along the river that runs beside the town. We walked past fields that once grew squash, sugar cane and corn, and now held cows, horses and dirty children.

The sun was not in favour of our expedition and hid behind the clouds keeping butterflies grounded.

But all was not lost, she did manage to capture a new species and add it to her long list of butterfly sightings. We made plans to return, perhaps for the night, next time.

Lots to do this weekend including the Evening under the Stars fundraiser for the SPCA at Hacienda San Angel, a fundraiser baseball tourney on Sunday that could use a few more bodies (see the sports column on page 15 for more details) and next week is the start of the peregrinations through Vallarta’s down-

town from December 1-12th. It’s a sight to see. Be sure to head down town (taxi or bus because traffic is crazy and parking is non-existent), bring some small

pesos and an empty stomach with you to gorge on tamales and atole. Yum! Your intrepid butterfly hunter, Madeline

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.

While her face may not be familiar to you, you should recognize her name. Janice Gonzalez has been doing the weekly SPCA newsletter for a few years now.

She has been with the SPCA

from the beginning but you will find her most often behind her computer also maintaining our databases, writing up ads for our dogs and helping wherever she can. 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.

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. 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. And now, we have begun scheduling tours from Nuevo Vallarta so don’t hesitate to 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.

SPCA of Puerto Vallarta

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he SPCA table at the Old Town Farmers Market is off to a great start. For you ladies, we will soon receive a shipment of scoop neck t-shirts that you requested in both black and white. Next Saturday we will also have some aprons and bags which Lisa Love makes for us. If you have any leashes, collars or dog/cat accessories you would like to donate, you can drop them off at the SPCA table.

We have an ongoing need for help transporting dogs to the States and Canada. The SPCA will take care of all the details and cost of transporting the animals.

All you have to do is show up at the airport in Vallarta and one of

our volunteers will meet you with the animal and get it checked in for the flight.

Another SPCA volunteer will meet the plane at your destination and pick up the dog. Stop by our table and we will answer any questions you might have.

Get involved…rescue, adopt, foster, volunteer, donate or educate. Contact us at spcapv@ gmail.com. 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.

news 04

Friday Nov 28 - Dec 4, 2014

New air accord frees limits on airlines New carriers, new destinations forecast as Mexico, U.S. sign agreement

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mproved air transportation between Mexico and the United States is forecast as a result of a new agreement signed by the two countries on November 21.

Current limits on the number of airlines that can provide passenger service have been removed, which could mean new carriers entering the market, and new destinations being offered by existing carriers, said the United States Transportation Department.

Air cargo options could also be improved through access to locations that are not currently available.

“Travellers, shippers, airlines, and the economies of both coun-

tries will benefit from competitive pricing and more convenient air service,” Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said.

The Secretariat of Communications and Transportation said the agreement will allow more flexibility in air traffic and improve connectivity, and bring better service to existing and new routes.

It will take effect January 1.

Mexican aviation workers, fearful that allowing U.S. airlines to operate in Mexico without restrictions will hurt the domestic industry, protested earlier this month in Mexico City. More than 10 domestic airlines have disappeared in Mexico in the last 10 years, and there are concerns that more will follow.

Details of the new agreement are not currently available.

Source: mexiconewsdaily.com

EPN welcomes new US immigration rules

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bama's new policy will shield millions from deportation New immigration measures announced last week by United States President Barack Obama are the most important that have been seen in many decades, President Peña Nieto said recently.

The U.S. president has given more than 4 million illegal immigrants protection from deportation: those who have been in the country for more than five years and are parents of citizens or legal residents are eligible to apply for work permits.

“What I’m describing is accountability — a commonsense, middle-ground approach: if you meet the criteria, you can come out of the shadows and get right with the law. If you’re a criminal, you’ll be deported,” Obama said.

His Mexican counterpart welcomed the news. “It is an act of justice that gives value to the contributions by millions of Mexicans towards the development of that country.”

The president said Mexico’s consular network in the U.S.

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Chile inspired by Mexico plan ‘Prospera’ seen as public policy example

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he Mexican social program Prospera constitutes an example of the type of public policies that must be considered by countries that want to make structural reforms, said the Chilean economist Sergio Urzúa.

Prospera is a social program initiated by the Mexican government to provide educational, health, nutritional and economic support to marginalized groups. It also promises to generate conditions that allow Mexicans to find jobs or be included in productive activities which promote autonomy and economic independence.

In a column published on Nov. 23 in the daily Chilean paper El Mercurio, Urzúa said “it would be good to look at the Mexican experience,” in respect to the education reform that the Chilean congress is currently studying.

Prospera constitutes “an example of how to make public

policies,” said the university academic.

“The program completely revolutionizes social policies, not only in Mexico, but in the whole world,” said Urzúa.

The social program, which started out as a program called “Opportunities,” continued in Mexico because “it went from less to more,” said the economist.

“Its growth was sequential.

In its first years it was directed at small rural areas and then expanded to municipalities with less than 50,000 inhabitants (2001),” Urzúa said.

This strategy “allowed for important adjustments in time, which are difficult to anticipate in highly complicated social programs,” he said.

“Sequential changes, informed, evaluated and with price and impact objective indicators are the necessary conditions to assure the sustainability of reforms on a large scale,” said Urzúa.

The economist added that “the second element which explained

its success was the continual evaluation of its results.”

“Although poverty was detected in function of the scarcity of economic resources, it is much more than that.”

“To reduce poverty it would be necessary to generate conditions so that households can permanently break the cycle of poverty,” Urzúa said.

The Chilean government presented Congress with a law project to carry out a profound education reform, which considers ending the profits in the sector and guaranteeing free access to education for all citizens, among other points.

Source: THE NEWS

Interjet announces new US flights Daily flights from Miami to Cancun and Guadalajara begin December 18

has been instructed to provide support to those Mexicans who wish to become legal under the new rules.

Those rules could shield from deportation as many as nearly half the estimated 11 million people living illegally in the U.S. “We’re going to keep focusing enforcement resources on actual threats to our security,” Obama said in his speech on Thursday night. “Felons, not families.

Criminals, not children. Gang members, not a mom who’s working hard to provide for her kids. We’ll prioritize, just like law enforcement does every day.”

Source: El Universal mexiconewsdaily.com

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wo more daily flights will link Miami, Florida, with Cancun and Guadalajara starting December 18.

In making the announcement, airline chief José Luis Garza said Cancun is the most important tourist destination in Latin America, and a recent study found that the state of Quintana Roo is the most competitive

in tourism. The most popular destinations among international visitors are in the state: Cancun and the Riviera Maya, he said, while Guadalajara is one of the cities with the highest levels of economic development.

In addition, Miami is fundamental to Mexico’s international connectivity.

Quintana Roo’s Tourism

Secretariat said international visitors at the Cancun airport were up 9% in the first seven months of the year, at almost 4 million. And hotel occupancy rates in Cancun and the Riviera Maya are expected to set a new record in 2014, at 85%, the Tourism Secretary said today.

The new routes will operate daily Sunday through Friday.

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 locations 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

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Friday Nov 28 - Dec 4, 2014

Jalisco to get new upgraded taxis

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Vallarta Botanical Gardens and the Gold-spotted Aguna

By Moralea Milne

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auricio Gudino Coronado, Secretary for Mobility and Transport, yesterday presented the new environmentally friendly taxis to begin in 2015 in the metropolitan areas of Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta.

The new taxis in Puerto Vallarta will be white with yellow roofs with TAXI PVR on the sides.

In Guadalajara the taxis will now be grey with yellow highlights and TAXI GDL on the sides. All registered cars will also have QR codes on the windshields to help with identifying taxi’s.

All drivers will need to be registered with the Secretaría de

Movilidad (SEMOV) and prior to registration will have to undergo a four-week training course.

The aim is to make the taxi’s safer and to bring in new certification requirements. In January all registered vehicles will need to be upgraded and painted in the new colour scheme. If a driver cannot afford to upgrade or purchase a new car, the federal and state governments will act as loan guarantors to ensure the drivers can finance the new requirements.

It is expected that up to 1500 cars will be upgraded in addition to the new cars being purchased.

Source: www.oem.com.mx

Port infrastructure bettered to meet future commerce

BY LILLIAN REYES

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aritime commerce in the Pacific Ocean is four times greater than in the Gulf of Mexico. In this context, the Communications and Transportation Secretariat through the Ports and Marine Merchant General Coordinator are working to build three new strategic ports, as well as modernize and amplify ports around the country.

Under the current administration, the federal government has invested more than $1 billion annually on the modernization and amplification of port infrastructure, representing a 75 percent increase from recent decades.

The federal government is betting that energy reforms will have a large impact in the Gulf of Mexico to encourage foreign

investment and increase the movement of goods and services into the region.

The maritime commerce coordinator, under the leadership of Guillermo Ruiz de Teresa, invested 1.3 billion pesos ($95.4 million) in the port of Matamoros, Tamaulipas, with the objective of creating a dock with updated specifications to receive the latest generation of maritime commerce vessels.

Additionally, in the state of Campeche the government developed and constructed new infrastructure at the Seybaplaya port and in Cuidad del Carmen.

On the heels of the projects the state has seen exponential growth from visitors attracted by its natural beauty and prime location for the development of the petroleum industry.

Source: The News

very time I visit Puerto Vallarta there are a number of things I must do, sample some home made ice cream (Oaxacan Kiss is a new favourite), indulge my sweet tooth with a few hot, cinnamon-coated churros and most importantly, visit the Vallarta Botanical Gardens.

There I spend many happy hours engrossed in a search for butterflies. With my much abused, chipped and worn camera in hand, I stealthily attempt to capture their form and beauty within a digital image. Stealthily because they can sense my presence from metres away, too far for a clear image.

To make photographing them more challenging, some species never seem to alight for more than mere seconds, or they show remarkable cunning in evading my lens, just barely peeking around the side of a tree trunk or under a leaf. Still, that is the beauty of any passion - surmounting challenges, executing a flawless task, learning more than you knew before.

With butterflies the thrill is in accomplishing the perfect, evocative photograph; in the identification of the species (often impossible to do); in learning the secrets of their lives, “which plant do they use as a host on which to lay their eggs?”; and on sharing that information with others.

Recently I photographed what I believe is a Gold-spotted Aguna,

not a butterfly gifted with extraordinary beauty, but one that has a more subtle resonance when captured in just the right circumstance. Agunas are members of the Skipper family, a vast array of generally small, nondescript butterflies that have hooked antennae.

The Gold-spotted Aguna lays its eggs on legumes, particularly in the Bauhinia family of trees, shrubs and vines, some of which are known as orchid trees. Like many skippers, the young caterpillars are green with a prominent, reddish head, the older caterpillars become more pale as they get closer to their astounding transformation to their butterfly form.

Of course the botanical garden is more than just a butterfly

haven, their new orchid conservatory will eventually house all the myriad species of orchids that can be found in Mexico, along with others that provide displays of unusual colours, shapes or are otherwise unique and have captured the interest of collectors.

To create an appreciation of Mexico’s vast species richness, the Gardens offer school tours to explore the variety of native plants, showcasing ones that have uses beyond butterfly habitat...such as edible fruiting trees and vanilla orchids.

I highly recommend a visit if you are in town for just a few short days or consider purchasing an annual pass if you are fortunate enough to reside here. www.vbgardens.org

LOCAL 07

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Paradise and Parenting Leza Warkentin mommyinmexico.wordpress.com

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et me take you on a little journey back in time, about twenty-five years ago. We are in Banff National Park on the eastern slope of Alberta’s Rocky Mountains. You’ll see a group of sixteen-year-old kids on a study tour where they are deeply engaged in observing rock formations, collecting samples, climbing glaciers, and daring each other to participate in a polar bear plunge in the stream outside the youth hostel.

Everyone is standing around at the top of a cliff, having participated in their very first rock-climbing adventure. It’s generous to call it a cliff, mind you, because it took about 3 vertical steps and about two minutes of grunt work to get to the top. However, these teens are pretty pleased with themselves, because they are from the prairies, and the tallest thing they’ve ever climbed was the ladder on their dad’s combine during the canola harvest.

The teens are waiting around for the last climber, who is almost at the top. She is securely clipped onto the cable, and in any case is not high enough to break anything fatal in the unlikely event of a fall. Unfortunately neither of these things mean a lot to the acrophobic who is clinging to the rocky wall like it’s her only chance at a prom date.

Their teacher is there with her and is talking very calmly beside her. She is nodding vigorously, eyes shut tight against the reality of this fresh hell. He doesn’t leave her side, but then again, the climber has white-knuckled his plaid jacket, so he probably isn’t going anywhere even if he wanted to.

Finally, she sweeps together her final crumbs of courage into a tiny little pile and grapples for her final foothold, which she finds on her mentor’s head.

This girl removes her helmet, revealing blonde hair (not unlike my own, but with a lot more backcombing, an effect achieved through a product called “Hair

Glue”, which everyone used in the nineties. Honestly).

She is elated, whooping and grinning at her teacher, who is now reaching the summit perhaps a few years nearer to retirement than he was when he started the climb.

He smiles back, weary, but with a satisfaction known only to a teacher who has helped someone achieve what she believed to be impossible.

Flash forward 25 years and we will find that same girl, a little older, (possibly) a little wiser, and with a lot less hairspray.

She is standing on a platform with the same gear, but this time she’s in Puerto Vallarta with Los Veranos Canopy Tour, ready to fly along a much longer cable over a much warmer river.

Her knuckles are still as white as they were on that cliff so many years ago as she clings to the cable like it’s the last link to her sanity, eyes shut tight against the brilliant green of the canopy.

Her son and husband have already gone on ahead, whooping with adrenaline and delight. Just now her eight-year-old daughter has whizzed by on the cable beside her, shrieking “Hiiiii Mommmmyyy!”

She’s upside down. The girl wonders how she could have raised such a show-off.

She can’t believe she talked herself into this mess.

But then she remembers that first climb, that first encounter with her greatest fear. And she sees the face of the teacher who believed in her ability to climb past the fear, to dig in for the courage that he knew was there. So yes, she’s still afraid, but that’s not going to stop her from doing this. And it’s not going to stop her from loving it.

She lets go. And she opens her eyes.

Friday Nov 28 - Dec 4, 2014

Old Town Farmers Marke Whimsical Glass Works Wow OTFM-TC Shoppers

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

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ew to Vallarta? Ready to create all sorts of adventures to make your stay extra memorable? Well, we’ve got you covered with Vallarta’s favorite weekend attraction: the Old Town Farmers Market-TC! You’ll find all sorts of mustsee’s, must-have’s and must-experience’s from live music and massage treatments to farmfresh produce and natural body products.

Get to Know the Market Vendors We are a bustling North American style market that celebrates the tradition and culture of Mexico’s outdoor tianguis markets.

All of our 80 national and international vendors are registered business owners who live full-time within 75 kilometers of Puerto Vallarta.

Every season, over 100,000 shoppers jump at the chance to pick from their fine spread of “make it, bake it, grow it” products.

And this week, we’re featuring the very talented, Carlos Rosas.

Meet Artisan Carlos Rosas An architect who is known for his knack for structure and design, Rosas thrills onlookers with his glass creations. You’ll be wowed as he shapes whimsical and welcoming heart pendants, palm trees and much-loved animals right there on the spot.

“We [Carlos and his brother/ business partner, Toño] inherited this noble tradition from our grandfather, Enrique Rivas,” says Rosas.

He explains that they’ve followed in his footsteps by dedicating their business to the preservation of Mexico’s artisan traditions.

Rivas perfected this glass art over the course of 40 years, and like him, the Rosas brothers continue to use basic tools and a combination of oxygen, butane gas and melted glass rods to

79 shape countless pieces for the market.

The two Rosas brothers are extremely talented, creating perfect gifts for people all over the world.

As you continue shopping through the week be sure to visit the Rosas brothers at their various Locations: * Basilio Badillo 156B, Zona Romantica, Puerto Vallarta * Zona Internacional de Cruceros, Marina Vallarta * Mercado Huanacaxtle, La Cruz (Sunday mornings only) Join Us This Saturday Come on out this Saturday (9:30-2 in Lazaro Cárdenas Park, Zona Romantica) to visit

the Rosas brothers. And don’t forget to bring your appetite as we have a scrumptious menu of International fare.

Take your pick from 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!

The market – a registered non-profit/association civil organization – is open every Saturday from November 1 to April 25.

For events and updates, please visit www.oldtownfm. com and “like” us on Facebook.

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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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Swimwear and beachwear made ​​to order!

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

Teresa Moreno Fb: TYBikinisYMas

Tel. 322-13-04-77 ty-bikinis-y-mas@hotmail.com Federalismo #1383 Colonia Lomas del Coapinole Pitillal, Jal

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local 10

Friday Nov 28 - Dec 4, 2014

www.vallartatribune.com

My Life In Vallarta

By Lois Ellison loell87@yahoo.com

12 Great Days

Bud Ellison

I

f you are lucky enough to be reading this here in Puerto Vallarta, you owe it to yourself to head to El Centro at least once and experience the Festival of the Virgin of Guadalupe (also known as the Guadalupana) before it ends on the 12th. I’m not going to tell you the story of the Virgin of Guadalupe, you can (and should) read that elsewhere.

Instead, I’d like to share with you some of my best memories of this incredible event.

We first learned of the festival in the early 1990’s when a taxi driver asked us if we were here for “the parades by the Church”.

We had no idea what he was talking about but who doesn’t love a parade? So off we went to find out what was going on.

We soon learned these aren’t “parades” they are pilgrimages, or peragrinaciones. I still get chills down my spine when I think of that first experience.

Previously, we’d always come in October or November. In the mornings we could hear groups of school children practicing a drum and bugle marching routine. Often a little off key, but always enthusiastic.

Now in December, suddenly, there they were, those wonderful school bands, girls on drums, boys on bugles, proudly marching down Calle Juarez en route to the Church. The piercing wail of the bugles mingled with the trombones and trumpets of traditional Mexican bandas and mariachi.

Groups of pilgrims on foot, carried candles, their voices rising heavenward with songs that would haunt us into the night and long after we’d returned home.

At that time, we didn’t know the story of Guadalupe but by just standing and watching, the story began to reveal itself to us.

Interspersed with the bands and singers, were floats depicting the miracle of Juan Diego. On many, young girls dressed as Guadalupe stood motionless, their eyes reflecting enormous pride at having been chosen for this honor. Most of the groups had

banners declaring their faith and gratitude to the Virgin of Guadalupe. You didn’t have to be religious to appreciate the intensity of their emotions.

Outside the Church, a group of Aztec dancers enacted a story of worship and sacrifice to the ancient gods.

This particular group was fantastic.

They had it all: elaborate feather headdresses, tall drums, incense burners, a conch shell to trumpet, and, at the finale, a real baby presented to the gods.

Hundreds of onlookers but not one person uttering a sound as

we all watched breathlessly. I’ve seen dozens of Aztec groups each year since then, but none even comes close to that first experience.

Puerto Vallarta was smaller and less modern 20 years ago.

Electric wires along the route had not yet been buried underground and formed a tangled mass over the street, often drooping low above the marchers heads.

Many of the taller floats were accompanied by men with long notched polls that they used to push the wires up so the floats could proceed. Truly an amazing sight.

After arriving at the

Church, the groups wait for the bells to invite them inside. As the singers and Mariachi enter, the walls reverberate with their joyful sounds.

Along the parade route, there were only a handful of food vendors. All of their booths were connected by extension cords leading to a single electric outlet.

Sometimes sparks would fly but no one seemed to care.

On several cross streets, youngsters set off fireworks. The lack of injuries was a miracle of its own. There were no Christmas decorations or reindeer hats to be purchased. Those came

years later as holiday customs from north of the border began to arrive.

The final day is reserved for Los Favorecidos (the favored ones).

These are the families and individuals who didn’t come with the sponsored groups on the earlier days. Numbering in the tens of thousands, they fill the streets completely, for as far as the eye can see. Some carry candles, icons, or offerings of food and flowers. Children are dressed as Juan Diego or Guadalupe. Some are in wheelchairs or walk with canes. A

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few even crawl all the way to the Church. It is difficult to describe and impossible to forget.

There’s no better way to experience the culture of Mexico than to participate in one of her festivals. And the Guadalupana is the best of the best: a collage of food, song, dance, costumes, and music; all wrapped in a mantle of faith and hope.

So what are you waiting for?

Head to El Centro and immerse yourself in an incredible tradition. Oh yes, don’t forget your camera.

Originally published December 2013

local 11

Friday Nov 28 - Dec 4, 2014

Ahoy! Welcome to Puerto Vallarta Sunday 30/11/2014 Statendam Holland America Line Arrive 08:00 a.m.

Leave 05:00 p.m. 2800 guests Tuesday 02/12/2014 Carnival Miracle Carnival Cruise Line Arrive 12:00 p.m.

Leave 03:00 p.m. 2980 guests Crown Princess Princess Cruises Arrive 10:00 a.m.

Leave 06:00 p.m. 2600 guests Wednesday 03/12/2014 Legend Of The Seas Royal Caribbean Arrive 12:00 p.m.

Leave 07:00 p.m. 1804 guests Thursdays 04/12/2014 Norwegian Star Norwegian Cruises Arrive 08:00 a.m.

Leave 05:00 p.m. 2240 guests

House Red Wine Glass 2x1 Venustiano Carranza 276 Tel. 322 223 2267

VALLARTA TRIBUNE 829 Feb 25 - March 3, 2013

The Natural Beauty of OUR Mountain

Plants

2000

Mammals

80

Birds

300

Amphibians and Reptiles

23

Butterflies

85

500

50% of these species are endemic to MĂŠxico.

We propose the area to be designated a

Natural Preserve Because for Vallarta,

Without the Mountain...

There is no future

LOCAL 15

www.vallartatribune.com

Of Markets and Men

By R.L. Avery

G

ravity works and at some point the pendulum will swing. Everything works in cycles. I have talked about quantitative easing and its effects. If you look to the far left of the chart, you will see where the Federal Reserve Bank started its third round of support for the economy and/or the Stock Market.

I think you can fairly argue that what the Fed did in 2009 was needed, after that, I’m not so sure. At some point the bill has to be paid.

I thought I would give a few explanations as to why the market is defying gravity other than the

Greenspan put, Bernanke put, and so on.

At the top of a cycle companies are hard pressed to continue productivity.

They have squeezed margins, cut staff and wages and other expenses all that they can. In order to increase shareholder value Executives resort to other means. Some people call it ‘financial jiggery’.

They use the cheap money available to them to buy back their own shares. This decreases the amount of outstanding shares and increases the value for current shareholders.

Companies start to search for partners. Mergers and acquisi-

tions. They find a company that is a competitor and try to buy it or merge. This results in more productivity as they can now lay off any workers that are considered redundant. More expenses cut and they have just taken more market share which tends to give them more price leverage.

For a consumer not necessarily great news.

Another reason for the markets incredible climb is the search for yield.

As people who do not have an income are desperate for return on their savings during a zero interest rate policy, they become enticed into the market. This has worked great for them, so far.

Random thoughts from the Tribune Sports desk

invite though, I am supposed to bring pumpkin pie and leave my Eagles jersey at home. Now I am really torn, the host is a pretty well-known chef around town and I know dinner will be spectacular.

But, can I watch the game without my McCoy jersey?

Maybe I should stop by Bang-On and get Paul to make me a Cowboys Suck t-shirt in Kelly green. There is nothing on the invite about that.

On a more somber note, a good friend of mine, Ted Clethro, has been battling a serious health issue and has been in the hospital for the past few months.

Ted is a driving force behind the Liga de Softball here in Puerto Vallarta and on Sunday, November 29th there is an eight team tournament happening at the Sheraton stadium. It will be a great time and there are a number of raffles and prizes with all the proceeds going to help Ted and his medical bills. If you are looking for something to do- stop by, say hola, buy some raffle tickets and enjoy some really high level baseball. (Ok, maybe not that high level, but enjoyable for sure) Happy Thanksgiving to our American friends and remember, Fly Eagles Fly.

By Joel Hansen joel@mexi-go.ca

Cowboys stink!

I

am writing this the day before American Thanksgiving. Tomorrow for me is bird-day and I don't mean the turkey.

I mean the Philadelphia Eagles vs. the Dallas Cowboys; one of the great rivalries in sports and my personal favourite rivalry in all sports.

My whats-app has been blowing up all week with texts from buddies all over Mexico, Canada and the States. My Facebook feed is littered with ‘friends’ posting Cowboys crap on my page.

Why? Because, I really and truly hate the Cowboys. I hate that smug pervert Jerry Jones and his weird crooked teeth;I hate dopy five-time concussed Troy Aikman

in the booth with Joe Buck; I hate Jimmy Johnston fleecing the By Joel and Hansen Vikings building the 1990's Dallas dynasty that always broke my heart; I hate Americas team (whatever that means); I hate Emmitt Smith gashing the Eagles defense on the Counter Trey run that we could never stop; I hate their giant stupid scoreboard and; I hate the Cowboys fans reminding me about all their Superbowl rings, even if they need to blow some dust of them to show me.

I love that the Eagles are playing Dallas on Thanksgiving.

They are tied on top of the division, that it is the 25 year anniversary of the Bounty Bowls and that I am watching the game and eating turkey dinner with some good friends from the US. There were two rules with the

Friday Nov 28 - Dec 4, 2014

This, by the way, is happening worldwide.

• Japan announced last week that they were officially in recession. Their market went straight up as the dollar sank and hedge funds et. all return to the yen carry trade.

• China is again pumping money into its banks and • Mario Draghi is promising more support for European Markets.

This all seems such a bore doesn’t it? Until one day it’s not.

That piper likes to get paid and the pendulum swings back, not to the middle, but as we’ve seen time and again, all the way over to the other side.

On a different note, I would like to talk about economics and foreign policy and about ethics.

This past week was the anniversary of the revolution in this country.

During that time nearly a million people immigrated to the United States in order to avoid the fighting. We see this in many parts of the world. It changes demographics and economies.

Ideally people should be able to remain in their own countries

and live a decent life, supported with basic human rights. Human rights in this country have been under attack for decades.

What is happening now is beyond the pale.

I admonish you to support the people in this beautiful country and their struggle for justice and basic rights.

I feel it is inexcusable for Mexico’s trade partners to remain silent in this regard.

If, while looking for missing persons in our own countries, we came across nine mass graves, society would erupt.

If we found that government officials were behind it, people would go to jail. How can we as expatriates and visitors turn a blind eye?

Please write your local government official and let them know how you feel. Join Amnesty international, support the United Nations.

These organizations do terrific work and they are not worried about securing lucrative contracts.

We are the people we have been waiting for. Stand up for what you believe.

LOCAL 16

Friday Nov 28 - Dec 4, 2014

Tis the Season of the Houseguest

By Fabien Madesclaire Fabien@g3mex.com

I

t’s that time of year again! Roll out the futon, inflate the airbed, layout the guest towels! Here come your family and friends!

And who can blame them?

These poor souls who live up north, trudging around in woolen scarves, scraping ice off of their windshields, trolling Travelocity for cheap flights with visions of tan lines, tequila shooters and mariachi music dancing in their heads. I work in Vallarta as a real estate agent, and the winter is my busiest time.

Too, I have a family and child, so my houseguests usually understand that I actually still need to toil for a living.

As a French person, we are taught to be hospitable. Family and friends NEVER stay in a hotel. The mere suggestion of this is the ultimate of insults.

This week I decided to put together a few pointers that will hopefully ensure endless fun for your houseguests and prevent a trip to the nuthouse for yourself.

Sending Advance Tourist Information is a MUST! Don’t just wing it! Assemble a list of of fun things to do, with links to maps, tours, restaurants and other insider suggestions.

Tailor it to your guest’s preferences. If they are outdoorsy, how about a day of mountain biking with Eco-Ride?

Are they gourmets? Maybe a cooking class at El Arrayan?

Yoga nuts? Then an 8:00 am yoga session on the beach might be just perfect.

Provide the list and then let

them do the research. Independence is key.

Remember, if you hold their hand too much in the beginning, they may look to you for all of the answers when they arrive.

Foreign Currency Exchange Rates Can Be Bewildering.

Give your guests a general idea of the cost for daily fun here in Vallarta. Too, tell them to rely upon withdrawing cash with their ATM cards at trusted banking institutions, as the exchange rate is better, and it is much safer than dragging a lot of currency around to Casa de Cambios.

OXXO is a Beautiful Thing

I never, ever, thought I would say that, but they do have a whole lot of stuff. Beer, booze, batteries, condoms, cell phones, etc. If your guests have forgotten something, these stores are always open and can usually tide them over for a day, or so.

Cell Phone

If your visitor doesn’t have an international cell phone plan, I think that picking up one of those pay-as-you-go phones (at OXXO, again!) is a great option. Start them out with $200 pesos and instruct them on how to easily add funds.

This lets them stay in touch with you, plus you’ll have an extra phone for future guests.

Keys and Security

All visitors should have a set of

www.vallartatribune.com

keys, to maximize autonomy.

Provide detailed instructions regarding when and what to lock-up AND where to hide valuables. Many homes here are open-air, and anyone walking by can see your stuff. It’s always a good idea to tuck tablets and other electronics out of the way when you leave the house. Better safe than sorry.

Hospitality

Make sure that you have some welcome snacks, drinks and breakfast items. A cold beer or margarita will put a smile on anyone’s face after a long day of airline travel.

Orientation Tour

Give your guests a lay-of-the-land tour. Vallarta is not too confusing.

The Pacific Ocean is to the West.

Mountains are to the East. Taxis are everywhere. Buses are easy to use. Show-off a few of your favorite souvenir shopping spots, taco stands and vendors. Truly, the more confident and independent your guests feel the more fun they will have!

Pick Them up at the Airport

I always pick people up at the airport. I feel very strongly that a familiar face is such a pleasure when you arrive in a new town or country. Happy houseguests will always appreciate you, and who knows, you may one day enjoy their futon in the heart of London or Hong Kong!

Fun Factoids: Infamous Houseguests Hans Christian Andersen was the houseguest from hell! Andersen famously invited himself to the Charles Dickens household and didn’t leave for five intensely long weeks. After the visit, Dickens wrote on the mirror in the guestroom: “Hans Andersen slept in this room for five weeks – which seemed to the family AGES!” And in the event that Julian Assange asks to crash at your place BEWARE! He will consume all of your Ovaltine, mistreat housecats, never get off of the couch, eat your leftover spaghetti and bring ladies back for the night!

If you have questions of comments regarding visiting Puerto Vallarta, feel free to contact me anytime at G3MEX Real Estate Group: 322-2090832 or on my cell phone at: 044-322-135-0424.

It’s Just Yoga

By Terry Connell

A

fter twenty years of practice, here is a brief list of the lessons I’ve learned as a student and teacher of yoga.

• Remember – it’s just yoga.

• If you feel like you’re working too hard, it’s because you are.

• There’s no place to get to – you are already here.

• Lighten Up. • Instead of giving into the fight/flight response when facing a stressful situation (like a yoga pose – or life), there is a third option – breathe.

• You can’t stop the ego from spinning all kinds of stories, that’s what it does. But you can choose not to listen.

• Don’t confuse controlled breathing with breathing fully.

• We’ve developed mental, physical and emotional habits during our lives for all kinds of reasons. At some point, it makes sense to stop and ask: which no longer serve us?

• Relax and breathe.

• There’s a fine line between tension and intention.

• It doesn’t matter how long we’ve been practicing yoga, it’s the same conversation every time we come to our mat. How do we give up our ego? How can we literally be out of our minds?

• Give yourself more space.

• It took you a lifetime to get to where you are.

• Flexibility is not a requirement, but exploring what it means to be more flexible is part of the experience.

• Change brings about change – just let it happen.

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).

Tianguis and Farmer’s Markets

A

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.

Bucerias Monday Market - Artwalk Plaza Bucerias Tianguis - Year-round Sundays In the arroyo Guayabitos – Mondays year-round In the main plaza La Cruz Sunday Mercado Sundays At the La Cruz Marina La Cruz Tianguis Year-round Wednesday Below the glorietta La Penita Tianguis – Thursday year-round In the main plaza Lo de Marcos Tianguis – Saturdays In the main plaza Marina Vallarta Market – Thursdays In the main plaza Old Town Farmers Market –Saturdays Lazaro Cardenas Park Riviera Nuevo Vallarta Farmers Market –Tuesdays San Pancho Market / Mercado del Sol Tuesday in Main Plaza Sayulita’s Farmer’s Market – Fridays Tres gallinas y un gallo - Saturdays 466 Venustiano Carranza

local 17

www.vallartatribune.com

Banderas Bay Initiative

By María del Mar Zamora maria@fundacionpuntademita.org

Spread the Warmth – Donate a Blanket

I

n many ways the Banderas Bay is a miniature melting pot, with each of us adding a little flavor to life here. I love how people dive in and build their community here, establish new roots and new traditions. But it is also fantastic how people keep traditions alive. This past week many celebrated Thanksgiving and perhaps saw some tropical additions to their traditional menu.

Or perhaps you went home for Thanksgiving and brought a little of Mexico up north. In any case, this integration of old and new helps us move forward while maintaining a sense of identity and builds bonds that cover not only distance, but time.

A local organization is remembering its roots, counting its blessings and having a positive impact on the lives of many.

Enlace Ciudadanos Otomoí AC was founded by a group of Otomí indigenous people living in the Banderas Bay area. The Otomí people live in fragmented territory in the center of Mexico, most of them in the states of Hidalgo and Querétaro. About 300 families have come to the Banderas

Bay seeking the more varied options that our local economy offers, but they have not forgotten the traditions and identity they left behind. Many of the families here come from the town of Santiago Mexquititlan in the state of Queretaro. About 4,000 families live there, many still wearing the colorful traditional dress of their people and making cloth dolls dressed in similar garb.

This holiday season Enlace Ciudadano Otomí is hoping to bring some of the warmth of the Bay to the families in Mexquititlan. They are asking for our

Yogen Früz

Y

our favourite frozen yogurt, Yogen Früz, the world leader in the frozen yogurt, with over 1400 locations operating in 46 countries around the world can be found in Old Town Vallarta.

Yogen Früz has delicious and nutritious frozen desserts, just what you need to live a healthy and active lifestyle. You can combine your favorite flavours of yogurt with fresh fruit to customize your order. Made fresh before your eyes, each serving

help in their collection of cold weather items to bring to them at Christmas time. Temperatures in Queretaro reach lows of -2°C (28° F) at night and average 15°C during the day. Many of the adobe homes with clay shingles for roofs depend largely on their small cooking stoves for warmth and a few extra layers of protection could bring a lot of happiness and health to their holiday season.

The organization is accepting donations of blankets, sweaters, shoes, gloves, hats and comforters every Saturday and Sunday from now until Christmas.

They have collection centers at the Pitillal Plaza and at the Sports Unit (estadio) on Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 6pm.

You can also bring your donation to the Fundación Punta de Mita offices in Punta de Mita any week day from 10am to 5:30pm. www.fundacionpuntademita.org/ en/contacto Find out more about the organization by visiting them on Facebook: facebook.com/enlaceciudadanosotomies.ac

is low in fat, high in fiber, with vitamins, probiotics and/or antioxidants.

Besides its unique flavors, Yogen Früz is also committed to the health of their customers.

They import all the yogurt from Canada in order to meet their quality standards.

With as little as 110 calories per serving, and offering both sugar-free and lactose-free options, high fructose corn syrup is not used to sweeten the products.

I have tried all of them and have my personal favorite. Have ü tried it?

Friday Nov 28 - Dec 4, 2014

Grand Re-Opening of Kathleen Carrillo Galleries new location!

Kathleen Carrillo Gallery has moved!

T

he acclaimed Painter and Printmaker, winner of several art prizes worldwide, the latest having been added to the “top artists of the year to watch”, in the most recent issue of “ART BUSINESS NEWS”, is holding a cocktail party for the official re-opening of the Gallery at the new location, Constitution #325 in Old Town, this Friday, the 28th from 6-10 pm. Catered Reception will be held in conjunction with the Southside Shuffle.

Come to admire the newest collections done by Carrillo and her husband, who is also an amazing sculptor. Andy and Kathleen collaborate on the one of a kind whimsical wooden sculptures from table top to free standing colorful works.

WHIMISICAL ARCHITECTURE COLLECTION, is a collection in which Kathleen portrays the “Colorful Magic of Life”, one of her most popular series. She travels the world to find beloved, inspirational cities and villages to paint.

Stop by Constitution 325 and admire the Inspired...Energetic...

Colorful Paintings of Kathleen Carrillo and enjoy other series such as: FRIENDS AND DIVAS COLLECTION, or the SMOKÍN JAZZ COLLECTION which has been ongoing for about eight

years and is one of her most popular series to date.

One of the newest series, SPICY SLICE OF LIFE COLLECTION shows her Foodie paintings and the beautiful patchwork quilts of Mother Nature in all its beauty and abundance.

Kathleen’s favorite series at the moment is COLLECTION. You will see many of the newest “Jungle Spirits” from this series on Friday night at the Grand Re-Opening from 6-10!

For information contact Kathleen at 044 322 141 8867, or go to www.KathleenCarrilloGalleries.com

Friday Nov 28 - Dec 4, 2014

RIVIERA NAYARIT 18

www.vallartatribune.com

Fun on the Riviera Nayarit

By Cat Morgan www.rivieranayaritfun.com

Nonprofit Community News

W

ith the Christmas holidays coming towards us quickly, nonprofit groups are getting their groove on with fundraisers to generate presents for the kids and monies and food that will be donated to families helping to create happier holidays and throughout the year.

A huge fundraiser will be held at the Drunken Duck in Bucerias on Monday December 8, 2pm – 6pm supporting the 21st Bucerias Children’s Christmas Program with over 1200 gifts given every year. Mothers and grandmothers are also gifted with Crown Royal bags filled with hotel type soaps, shampoos and lotions. Donation: $200 Pesos plus all the raffle tickets you want to buy! Food, drinks available plus a great band. Tickets: Yo Yo Mo’s Sports Bar 40 Ave. Mexico – Bucerias Jan and Jennie Roden: 322- 222- 5101 xmasinbucerias@gmail.com Visit the little Catholic church on the arroyo (east side of Carretera 200) at 3 or 4 pm on Christmas Eve (Dec 24) to see the distribution of the gifts! You won’t believe your eyes!! It is truly amazing.

When flying down from Canada, West Jet allows one extra suitcase per person for humanitarian aid. Needed now is gently used clothing for children and adults and school supplies.

The orphanage in Valle that was recently opened with 188 children of all sizes and ages could really use the donation of clothing. Clothing also goes to the La Fuente church and the Tercera Edad Senior Center in Bucerias. Contact Sandi Nystrom who heads up the John Ozzello Memorial Food Bank. Find her on their Facebook page and she would be happy to get your donations to where you would like them to go.

Another fundraiser coming up for the John Ozzello Food Bank is the 4th Annual Chili Cook Off in Bucerias on December 10th. If you think you make a great pot of chili step up to the plate and enter your chili in this contest!

This year the Chili Cook Off will benefit the John Memorial Food Bank. They will be supplying the tables and chairs, cups, utensils and napkins. All you need to do is bring your best chili Wednesday, December 10th to 62 Lazaro Cardenas. Please register now at TheBuceriasChiliCookOff@ gmail.com. Live music by Brit and Esteban, and adult beve-

rages to cool down those chili flames. There are also 10 tickets left for the Whale Watching Tour!

The Amigos de Bucerias A.C. does a whole heck of lot for the Bucerias community, and I wanted to expand on that a bit in this article this week. The Amigos de Bucerias, A.C. is a Mexican registered civil association composed of members called “amigos” which reside mostly in Bucerias and unite to make Bucerias a good place to visit, work and live. Their Mission Statement is: “The civil association Amigos de Bucerias, A.C., is dedicated to the protection and enhancement of the quality of life in Bucerias, in cooperation with all residents, elected and appointed officials, business leaders and visitors.”

Projects they work on are the Beach Cleanup, Recycling Program, Paws and Claws, Special Needs Fund, Street Lights and help support the John Ozzello Memorial Food Bank.

Other organizations they help out

with are the Bucerias Children’s library, Biblioteca Rey Nayar, Human Connections, Manos de Amor (Bucerias orphanage) and the Tercera Edad Senior Center.

The Tercera Edad Senior Center has recently built a large chicken coop for eggs. Here is a small excerpt from the amigos webpage written by Amigo president Ronnie Barker, “When President Cirino told us of his plans to have a hen coop, we said, sure, go ahead, and thinking, aw, sweet. But he and his seniors had bigger ideas – much bigger ideas! Using the balance of monies raised from selling crafts at the market and the Mexican ladies cooking demos, they bought the materials and the seniors set to with a will …

Even as they were building, they were already acquiring some stock – provided by Manny Venegas, really cute little Easter card type chicks all yellow and fluffy chirping around.” Read the rest of the article on their webpage link: http://amigosdebucerias.org/featured/whats-happening-at-the-tercera-edad/) Since then the cute little chicks have grown up to be great egg laying hens, which means lots of eggs for people to eat! Unfortunately, they had some issues with the last rain and lost about 60 of the now egg laying chickens due to an unfinished roof.

Black plastic had been donated, but just could not hold up to the last heavy rain on November 11th. Find out how you can help the Bucerias Tercera Edad Senior Center or other projects.

Contact the Amigos de Bucerias on their web site at AmigosdeBucerias.org.

BEACH CLEAN-UP

PROJECT Riviera Nayarit and Bahia de Banderas Turismo Municipal are starting a program to clean the beaches and also have fun afterwards. This Saturday November 29th at 8:00am on the Bucerias Beach along the arroyo (river). We will be cleaning the beach, and after will be having fun with music, DJ’s, Football and Volleyball on the beach. If folks show up this may be a monthly event. Meet on the beach where the Kissing Bridge is on the playa at 8am. You will see tables and shade tents or umbrellas set up.

Please join us.

Adults can finish their Primary or Secondary level Literacy….

Spread the word! Tell your maids/gardeners/shop and restaurant staff – whoever …there is a new Government campaign run by INEA (Instituto Nayarita de Educacion para Adultos) – for adults to finish their primary or secondary level literacy – and it’s absolutely FREE !

New Events on the Bucerias Calendar Bucerias Art Gallery & Studio hosts Puerto Vallarta artist, Oscar Hyle for a meet and greet on Dec. 4th at 7pm during the Thursday Bucerias Art Walk. Oscar, though only 22, boasts a full resume. You will find many of his Urban Murals throughout P.V. such as ‘A Tomatlense Beach’ on Allende Street or “Windows on Vallarta” on Francisca Rodriguez.

“We are thrilled to have Oscar as our Featured Guest Artist” says, Floydilou, owner of the gallery. “He is a conscientious artist continuously honing his craft in various mediums. The meet and greet will give the community here an opportunity

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RIVIERA NAYARIT 19

Friday Nov 28 - Dec 4, 2014

Living In La Cruz

By Cindy Bouchard

Follow the sound of music to La Cruz…

L

to see what a fine young and talented man he is.”

Please check the allBucerias. com calendar and allLaCruz.com calendar for the weekly entertainment, live music, specials and fundraisers.

I only get so much writing room here every week! Visit the https://www.facebook.com/allrivieranayaritfun Facebook page for local and a bit of national

news and updates. Give us a Like while you’re at it!

Thanks for reading. If you’re looking for a fun tour, fishing boat (catch guaranteed!), or need a rental contact me at Cat@RivieraNayaritFun.com and I can connect you with the best!

Have a super week! AHO! Cat Morgan is owner of the RivieraNayaritFun.com Network and NewEnergyConsciousness.com .

a Cruz is the music mecca on the Bay, where on any given night you can dance the night away. Not a dancer? Sip your favorite cocktail and enjoy.

Ana Banana’s, an original music venue in our small town serves home cooking and rock and roll on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.

Thursday thru Saturday nights Philo’s Bar has folks strutting their stuff or clicking photos of our most loved resident, Leon, who plays the washboard and bangs his cymbal in an impressive display of talent! Pizza and ribs are their specialty.

Tuesday night, Britannia Pub’s open mic night is a ‘must do’!

Talented musicians make sweet, sweet sounds that get the crowd dancing, hootin’ and hollerin’!

On the menu, British cottage pie and fish and chips. Gecko Rojo has become the community centre with dartboards, music and comfort food – delighting weary travelers and the fabulous party band Funkswagon plays on Wednesdays.

Oso’s Oyster Bar and seafood restaurant has great food and music various nights of the week, including Thursday’s with Grammy Award-winning Bryan Savage!

Feast on German specials at The Black Forest Restaurant which features the flamenco sounds of Latcho and Andrea returning Friday nights starting December 5th. Masala Restaurante combines the art of food presentation with daily gourmet fusion flavors and features local Tatewari flamenco/jazz band on Thursdays.

Roberto’s Xocolatl on the hill commands the best view of the bay and the most impressive fajita display and features Al and

Zoe, the Mango duo, on Sundays.

Their soft sounds are perfect as you enjoy your meal and that view! Sanzibar, on the oceanfront is romantic and as part of the Trio chain of restaurants promises gourmet meals and the awesome local band Tatewari serenades on Tuesdays! Sunday’s from ten until two at the cultural Artisans Market at the Marina Riviera Nayarit featured different artists each week with something for

everyone… wee ones to adults.

Next missive I’ll share La Cruz’s other dining options where music is not the focus.

Cindy Bouchard is an expat Canadian who runs a Boutique Inn, Villa Amor del Mar in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle. She and her husband Chris are living and lovin’ in Vallarta–Nayarit. If you want more info on La Cruz or desire…

A very special vacation contact cindy@VillaAmordelMar.com

entertainment 20

Friday Nov 28 - Dec 4, 2014

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Perceptions

of Art

By Marcia Blondin marciavallarta@gmail.com

A

nother entertaining week just flew by: Assorted Fruits & Vegetables and Nunsense on Vacation finished their runs at the Main Stage and Boutique Theatre respectively.

The Palm Cabaret opened with Spencer Day who is continuing to enchant audiences; however, we all were waiting for the opening night of Greater Tuna at the Palm starring Tracy Parks and Chaz Weathers.

I swear everyone related to theater in Vallarta was there!

The show is so funny and Tracy and Chaz blew everyone away; go and see Greater Tuna and watch Tracy's decades-long dream come true, right before your very eyes!

Puerto Vallarta’s Red Room Cabaret COMING THIS MONTH Rocky Mountain High Dec. 2, 3, 5, 8, 9, 11, 12 &15 at 7:30pm “Rocky Mountain High - The Music of John Denver” featuring Paul Aleman with John Denver Band member, Renee Armand. Renee performed with John for several years and appears on the DVDs, “Thank God I’m A Country Boy (Live in Australia 1977)” and also on “Rocky Mountain High (Live in Japan 1981).”

Renee sang the Academy Award winning song “The Morning After” on the movie “The Poseidon Adventure” and wrote “One Day In Your Life” which was recorded by Michael Jackson.

The duo will be presenting the music of John Denver along with stories from the road and insight into the music.

Then on Sunday evening, Encore hosted a huge party to celebrate the winter season Grand Opening of the Red Room Cabaret at Act II Entertainment.

The bar was packed, the hors d'oeuvres fresh and tasty and plentiful. We were entertained by Elizabeth Ensor, partner at Act II, with her soaring soprano with a song from Sweeny Todd.

By the way, she and David Lyons are putting together a show for December 13 and 15. I will keep you posted!

Then, some of the entertainers featured in the coming weeks in the Red Room tantalized all of us with a taste of their talent and humor.

Elvis was IN the building!

Ron Knight will be singing some of Elvis's favorite inspirational songs every Sunday at 1 pm.

Dwight Blake, always a favorite at Act II gifted us some Marvin Gay. Jason Brock, a contestant on the second season of X-Factor, gave us his New York State of Mind and all of these wonderful talents were being hosted by Mark Alan Smith one of the finest and funniest impressionists ever.

And then. And then!

The one and only Kim Kuzma

sold out the Red Room with her superb band - each a star in their own right - and reminded us once again why she is Vallarta's favorite entertainer.

She is truly like a fine wine only better and nicer to hug!

I caught Mark Alan Smith's opening show....raunchy then sweet and almost spooky with his tributes to about a dozen fine female singers; however Louis Armstrong and Freddie Fender took bows as well.

His ten shows are all different! I can't wait to see more.

One thing I would hope for - no, beg! would be for him to end each show like he did his opening night. Wow. The beautiful "Bring him Home" from Les Miserables in his own wonderful tenor.

He didn't just bring tears to

my eyes...I wept from the sheer power of Mark Alan's voice.

Coming up in the Red Room: Rocky Mountain High, the music of John Denver begins December 2 at 7:30. On the 4th, The Vallarta Men's Chorus takes the Main Stage under their new director Alfonso Lopez and on the 5th and 6th only, a very special treat, Love Letters starring Linda Purl and Gregory Harrison.

There will be an after-party with the two stars for those with preferred seating. Hurry and get your tickets fast - they are nearly sold out!

Until next week - get out and enjoy the spectacular new theatre offerings this season and remember Christmas is coming and giving tickets as gifts will be appreciated forever and ever.

ADORABLE DOG IN THE SPOTLIGHT...ROSIE

R

osie is the cutest with beautiful coloring, an attractive face and soulful eyes. She has the sweetest personality and, at a mere nine pounds, she is the ultimate lapdog. We believe Rosie is a Miniature Greyhound/Rat Terrier mix, just a year and a half old.

She is a young girl and still loves to run around and play. She has been dewormed, spayed and is current on all her vaccinations.

We know Rosie would be a wonderful addition to any family.

Contact us at spcapv@gmail. com if you are ready to add Jake to your family.

EVENTS 21

www.vallartatribune.com

W

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

Tuesday December 2nd 7pm Fashion show Benefit & Dinner For St. Barbara Rehabilitation Clinic at the Hotel Marriott Casa Magna $600 pesos Info. 224-2754 Wednesday December 3rd 10am CANICA Breakfast at Barcelona Tapas. Benefits children with cancer. $200 pesos. latorrepv@yahoo.com Wednesday, December 3rd Amigos de La Cruz Dinner and Dance at Roberto’s Xocot´tl 6pm start. Buffet Dinner, silent auction, live band - $250 pesos Friday, December 5th at 10:00am Corazon de Niña Breakfast at the Marriott $250pesos Tix at CAROL’S BOUTIQUE, KRISTINA’S SALON Saturday, December 6 at 11 am Golf Scramble on La Vista Weiskopf Course. Lots of prizes along the course and delicious Mexican buffet in the clubhouse after the game during the awarding of prizes. Make your own foursome with your favorite golfers or show up and take a chance on our pairings! Come for a day of fun!! Cost pp: 1300 pesos or $100 USD. Proceeds support Toys for Tots. Contact for info and tickets: Fred and Dorothy 322 209-0064 pvdcp@yahoo.com

Saturday, December 6th 11 am PeaceAnimals 9th annual pet picnic Includes lunch; costume and obedience contests (only for dogs, not cats or humans); at Daiquiri Dick´s on Los Muertos beach (Olas Altas 314) $275 pesos in advance or $300 pesos at the door with funds benefiting PeaceAnimals free mobile spay/ neuter clinics Saturday, December 6 from 4-8pm 2nd Annual Taste of Nuevo Vallarta & 14th Annual Chili Cook-off At the Marina Nuevo Vallarta malecon Using a ticket system ($10 pesos each) you can sample the offerings (over 40 booths last year) as well as purchase beverages.

Net proceeds will all go to charity, evenly split between Families at the Dump and the Navy League.

Sunday, December 7 at 6:30 pm Gala Dinner/Dance on at Marriott CasaMagna Resort and Spa. Featured this year: Children's Mariachi during cocktail hour, Patron Tequila in live auction, and a live band! And, as always, a delicious dinner with wine! Cost pp: 1,000 pesos or $80 USD. 10% discount if you buy a table for ten.

Proceeds support Toys for Tots.

Contact for info and tickets: Fred and Dorothy 322 209-0064 pvdcp@yahoo.com Sunday, December 7th from 12-6 3rd Annual Art Show with more than 30 artists at El Rio BBQ in Paso Ancho Event proceeds benefit Colina Free Spay Clinic.

Carolina: doggonegoodcarolina@ yahoo.com.

Friday Nov 28 - Dec 4, 2014

Monday December 8 from 2pm – 6pm Fundraiser 21st Bucerias Children’s Christmas Program at the Drunken Duck, Donation $200 pesos. Live music. Food and Drink Specials. Over 1200 gifts delivered each year to children around Bucerias.

Wednesday, December 10 4th Annual Chili Cook Off fundraiser for John Ozzello Food Bank Bring your best chili to 62 Lazaro Cardenas, in Bucerias. Live music and adult beverages. Register TheBucer iasChiliCookOff@ gmail.com Thursday, December 11 from 4:30 to late Pro Sayulita Fundraiser Dinner and Entertainment Ruben of Ruben’s Deli and Calypso restaurant in Sayulita is hosting a fundraiser dinner at his ranch out on Manuel Plasencia.

Tickets at the Farmers Mkt in Sayulita or at Ruben’s Deli.

Friday, December 12th at 5:30pm Purr Project Pig Roast & Beach Luau at Sea Monkey $250 pesos tickets include dinner, two margaritas or beer and Polynesian dancers from Academia de Danza Moorea. Raffle prizes.

Proceeds support the 150+ cats and kittens at the Purr Ranch, a no-kill shelter for cats in Banderas Bay. Tickets call Marcia at 322-159-9675 Monday, December 15th at 10am Fairways to Heaven Charity Golf Outing at Vista Vallarta Golf Club $150usd includes lunch, cart, prizes. Fundraising for DIF

Tickets and more info at vallartanayaritclassicrockfest.com December 20 – 31st, 2014 International Fireworks Festival 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.

de Huanacaxtle 3-7pm TASTE OF LA CRUZ will feature restaurants, businesses, artisans and musicians from Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta.

January 24th, 2015 4th Annual TASTE OF LA CRUZ Marina Riviera Nayarit in La Cruz

Wednesday February 4th, 2015 John Ozzello memorial food bank fundraiser 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

de Agua Condominiums and the sculpture “Andale Bernardo”, currently known as the “Donkey Sculpture” installed at the Lazaro Cardenas park.

Although the tour is free, a no pressure opportunity is given to make a donation to Vallarta`s

Biblioteca Los Mangos public library, an institution also serving as a community center but receiving absolutely no funding from any branch of the government, and thus heavily dependant on donations and other fund raising efforts.

Galeria Pacifico public sculpture tours

E

very Tuesday morning at 9:30 am, spend a pleasant morning walking Puerto Vallarta’s Malecon while learning about the many bronze sculptures located along the waterfront. No reservations are necessary and one must only show up at the Millennium sculpture next to the Hotel Rosita at the north end of the Malecon.

The tour was created by and is guided by Galeria Pacifico`s owner, Gary Thompson, who has 35 years experience in the Vallarta art scene and who knows personally many of the artists who created the sculptures on the tour. This includes

Mathis Lidice, the nom d`plum of Fernando Baños, who created and talks about the first sculpture on the tour, Millennium.

At this sculpture chairs are provided by Marcelo Alcaraz of the Hotel Rosita, and free handouts with information on the sculptures are made available by Sandra Cesca of Learn Vallarta.

Other information sheets about the Huichol Indians and their artistic symbols that have been recreated in pebbles in the pavement of the new Malecon are provided by Kevin Simpson of the Peyote People and Colectika Galleries.

He also walks along during

the first half of the tour explaining each symbol encountered along the way.

Although the tour lasts around two hours in total, Thompson looks for opportunities for people to sit in the shade near each sculpture whenever possible. The tour ends at Galeria Pacifico`s second floor location at 174 Aldama street.

Guests are given complimentary beverages and the opportunity to meet and talk to Jim Demetro, the artist who created the “Dancers of Vallarta” sculpture on the extension of the Malecon , the “Woman Washing Clothes” in front of the Molino

charity 22

Friday Nov 28 - Dec 4, 2014

www.vallartatribune.com

Non-Profit and Charitable Organizations

F

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.

Acción En La Cruz: aid residents of La Cruz de Huanacaxtle by providing provisions in exchange for community services performed. landon5120. wix.com/accionenlacruz Alcoholics Anonymous: In English Puerto Vallarta Alanon Club - Basilio Badillo 329 recoverpv.com Amazing Grace Missions Assisting families in Majisterio & Progreso with necessities and job training and English. Children’s programs also. Tax-deductible in USA & Canada. Contact slw2014nv@gmail.com American Legion Post 14: raises resources and manpower to improve facilities needing building maintenance www.americanlegion14.org Asilo San Juan Diego Home for the Elderly - Contact: Lupita Sanchez Covarrubias 222-1257 or malupita88@hotmail.com or mexonline.com\asilosanjuandiego.htm Asociación Down - Assistance to

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

Banderas Bay Women’s Shelter Safe shelter for women & children victims of domestic violence. www.compassionforthefamily.org Becas Vallarta, A.C. – Provides scholarships to high school and university students.

Tax-deductible in Mexico and USA. Polly Vicars at (322) 223-1371 or Buri Gray at (322) 221-5285. puerto-vallarta.com/amf CANICA - Centre for Children with

Cancer. Provides aid for treatment and services including transportation to GDL. Contact Director, Evelia Basañes 322-123-5688.

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

COLINA Spay and Neuter Clinic

- Free and by-donation sterilization clinic in Old Town. Only open Sundays, Contact: cez@rogers.com or 322-104-6609 CompassionNet Impact – Transforming the lives of people living in chronic poverty. Job creation, education, emergency food, medicine & clothing. Tax-deductible. Cell: (322) 133-7263 or ric@4compassion.org Corazon de Nina A safe, loving, home-environment for 20+ girls rescued from high-risk situations. Donations & volunteers always welcome! Totally self-funded. www.corazondenina.mx Cruz Roja (Red Cross) - Handles hospital and emergency service in Vallarta. It is the only facility that is authorized to offer assistance to injured people on the street. Contact: 222-1533, 222-4973 Desayunos para los Niños de Vallarta A.C. Feeding programs, education programs, day care centers for single mothers. 22 343 11 or 22 225 72 Discapacitados de Vallarta, A.C. (DIVAC) association of handicapped individuals dedicated to helping one another. Ivan Applegate at 221-5153.

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

Charity in Vallarta

By Frank K. Meyer

The American Legion in Banderas Bay

T

he American Legion Post 14 is located here in Puerto Vallarta and very active with many worthwhile charity projects in the city as well as all around in the surrounding area. Their Mission Statement is to: support all veterans in the Banderas Bay area. Veterans and provide sources for medical treatment in Vallarta. Contribute to the community through various fundraising efforts. Provide necessary resources to improve various institutions in the Banderas Bay area.

These include Day Care Centers, Senior Citizens Homes and Schools for the Disabled, Deaf, Public Schools in rural areas and private institutions doing charity work needing building maintenance.

Here is a partial list of their activities.

Projects Completed Projecto Busca un Amigo Day Care Center-Repairs, painting, repairing therapy swimming pool, raise wall & install sidewalk School for the Deaf- Lighting, Fans, Window Protection Boca de Tomatlan Jr. Sr. High School - Water Supply & Repairs to Boys and Girls Bathrooms Santa Barbara Rehabilitation Clinic - Tile roof installation and DIVAC Association for the Handicap - Painting and general clean –up.

Casa Hogar Maximo Cornejo Quiroz Orphanage - Painting and putting new LOGO on the front Casa Hogar Corazon de Nina - Painting upper and lower of new addition and building planter boxes for vegetables Centro de Apoyo a Ninoscon Cancer A.C. (Support Center for Children with Cancer) - Purchase and install playground Paint and repairs to the facility.

Fundacion Punta de Mita LDG. Ana Lilia Medina Varas de Valdés. ana@fundacionpuntademita.org Tel. (329) 291 5053 Friends of PV Animals Volunteers working to enhance the lives of shelter animals. For info and donations visit friendsofpvanimals.com Grupo Ecológico de Puerto Vallarta: Arq. Luz del Carmen Pérez Alvarez cayro_13@hotmail.com grupoecologico.com Horizonte de Paz: Shelter for men of all ages who are troubled with alcohol & drug addiction. Donato Schimizzi: 322 199 9523 or Roberto: 281 0644 dschimizzi@yahoo.com La Brigada de la Basur:a A weekly meeting of neighborhood children to clean Vallarta Streets. Contact Que?Pasa 223-4006 Mexico Ministries & Mission, Inc. raises funds to the poor in Vallarta. Contact Fr. Jack+ 044 322 229-1129 christchurchbythesea.org Navy League - assists in the transportation of donated medical supplies from the U.S., organizes work groups to paint and repair facilities, www.vallartanavyleague.org.

New Life Mexico - Challenging Child Poverty with health and education programs. Philippa Vernon pvp@newlifemexico.com Paraíso Felino AC Refuge and Adoption Centre for cats and kittens

in the Bay of Banderas. Luis Donaldo Cel. (322) 120-4092 Pasitos de Luz - substitute home for low income children with any type of handicap, offers rehabilitation services and special support to their families. 299-4146. pasitosdeluz.org PEACEAnimals - Free mobile spay/ neuter clinic operating 48 weeks a year, primarily in Puerto Vallarta.

Tax-deductible. peaceanimals.org Pro Biblioteca de Vallarta - Raises funds for Los Mangos Public Library.

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

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

Contact: 299-4495.

Puerto Vallarta Garden Club: Beautify and protecting the environment. vallartagardenclub.com PuRR Project - A no-kill cat shelter, a natural un-caged environment. www.purrproject.com Refugio Infantil Santa EsperanzaShelter for Children. Tax-deductible. ccshf.ca Roma’s Kids - Educate the children of the Volcanes and surrounding area: Math, English and computer programs a priority. 100% goes to the kids. kids.romamexico.com The International Friendship Club (IFC) - Supports the Cleft Palate Surgery Program & families in need.

322-222-5466. ifcvallarta.com. mail.

Caloso Park – Painting and playground repairs installed recycled tire swing seats *DIF Senior Home in Coapinole - Painting, electrical repairs, emergency lighting installation and electrical upgrades.

Aurora Recreational Park - Adopted total upkeep/ maintenance annually. Painting, repairs, exercise equipment and purchase of trees and shrubs Las Juntas Police Training Facility—Exercise equipment for weight training and boxing (Currently working on.)

Playground San Vicente del Mar - Restoration/repairs Playground Guamuch - Restoration/repairs Torpedos Football Americano - Fund raising, maintenance on the field and donating toward scholarship Future Projects DIF Orphanage for the boys in Coapinole – Painting and repairs School for the Deaf building addition. This will be in partnership with Club Rotario Puerto Vallarta, el número del Club es el 7004 and Punta Mita Foundation School in San José del Valle - Jesus Ruiz Aquilar Paint 300 desks and building a wall so water will not flood the class rooms .

Santa Barbara Rehabilitation Clinic Painting and Repair San Ignacio Assist in building a community center. Water plumbing and electrical support.

The American Legion works together with the Navy League and DIF on many projects to better the community.

One of the Legions professional service officers, Cheryl Kehler, has helped many veterans to file their claims with the VA in order that they will receive all the benefits that they are entitled to.

Jerry Saddler Foundation is very supportive of all these projects. The Legion’s next fundraiser is the PV Poker Tour on December 13th at Steve’s Sport Bar. Please join them.

Canadian veterans are welcome to join as associate members Post Headquarters “STEVE’S SPORTS BAR” 286 BASILLO BADILLO WWW.AMERICANLEGION14.ORG 044-322-138-8891 044-322-117-3361

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CLASSIFIEDS 23

Friday Nov 28 - Dec 4, 2014

IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS Emergency Phone Numbers The police station or the fire department is 060. For Non-Emergency calls, dial (322) 290-0507 for the Police Dep & (322) 224-7701 for the Fire Department.

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

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

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

Havre No.111 Col. Versalles Fluent Englis Spoken

Mention the VALLARTA TRIBUNE this week and receive 25% off shoes and “black clothes”. Normal discounts up to 75% off still going on!

497 Francisco Madero & Naranjo Emiliano Zapata 044 322 100 1577

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

Emergency Numbers for Bucerias & La Cruz Numbers for the Police Department in case of emergency are 291-0049 and 291-0666.

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

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