Issue 925, December 26- January 01, 2015

Catch us online @ vallartatribune.com

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News Feeding the world

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Dec 26, 2014, Jan 1st 2015 Free Issue 925

Art

Brewster brockmann

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Travel best beaches

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Photo Barb Nettleton

Happy New Year!

Friday Dec 26, 2014, Jan 1st, 2015 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.

Tianguis and Farmer’s Markets

Happy 4 months

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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 Marsol Market to the pier - Friday Old Town Farmers Market –Sat. Lazaro Cardenas Park Nuevo Vallarta Farmers Market –Tuesdays San Pancho Market / Tuesday in Main Plaza Sayulita’s Farmer’s Market - downtown friday Tres gallinas y un gallo - Saturdays 466 Venustiano Carranza

Calling in Mexico Calling phones in Mexico can be tricky as it is different than in the US or Canada. There are different codes you need to use depending if you are calling landlines or cellular phones and if they are local or long distance.

Long-distance calls from within Mexico For national long-distance calls (within Mexico) the code is 01 plus the area code and phone number. For international long-distance calls, first dial 00, then the country code (for the U.S. and Canada the country code is 1, so you would dial 00 + 1 + area code + 7 digit number).

Calling Cell Phones (from a land line) If you are calling from a landline within the area code of the Mexican cell phone number dial 044, then the 10 digit number including area code. Outside of the area code (but still within Mexico) dial 045 and then the 10 digit phone number. Cell phone to cell phone only requires the 10 digit number.

Phone Cards Phone cards (“tarjetas telefonicas”) for use in pay phones can be bought at newstands and in pharmacies in denominations of 30, 50 and 100 pesos. Pay phones do not accept coins. When buying a phone card for pay phone use, specify that you would like a “tarjeta LADA,” because pre-paid cell phone cards are also sold in the same establishments.

Calling Toll-Free Numbers Some toll free numbers work from Mexico to the US and Canada, but many do not.

You need to dial a different prefix.

To call the following toll free prefixes, dial as follows: 800 numbers Dial 001-880-then the number 866 numbers Dial 001-883-then the number 877 numbers Dial 001-882-then the number 888 numbers Dial 001-881-then the number

Emergencies: 060 Red Cross: 065 Non-Emergency Police Immigration: 322.224.7719 322.290.0507 Consumer Protection: Fire Department: 01.800.468.8722 322.223.9476

Mauricio & Nayeli

Ambulance: 322.222.1533

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

Tourism Offices Jalisco: 322.221.2676 Nayarit: 322.297.1006

Canadian Consulate 322.293.2894 24 hrs: 1.800.706.2900

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Feliz Año Nuevo!

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f you don’t know, you should, Puerto Vallarta and the Bay of Banderas is one of the most spectacular places (in the world) to celebrate the New Year.

Around the bay, resorts, restaurants, clubs and homes shoot off an abundance of fireworks and with a prime spot you can see just about all of them. My first year here I went back to Canada for a New Years wedding and didn’t know what I had missed but the next year I was on the beach at Barracuda’s and it was stunning. I just sat in the sand, drink in hand, in awe of the beauty of these lights and so thankful that I could call this place home and that, unlike my friends visiting from Vancouver, would not need to get up early to catch a plane back to Canada.

This year I live up on the hill overlooking the malecon and I am so excited to be able to stay home and avoid the whole ‘New Year’s Party’ thing and that I get to experience the lights with those I love in the comfort of my home. Plus, this years display should be even more spectacular with the International Fireworks Festival. Here’s praying that the clouds stay away. Check page 21 for the schedule of events for the Int’l Fireworks Festival.

Now, in addition to letting go of 2014 in a bang, there are a few superstitions you should consider to bring in 2015 at its best. Sweep your floors and outside area before (and definitely not after) 12:01am January 1st to sweep away the negative build-up of 2014, sprinkle lentils over your door to attract good fortune and perhaps the best reason to go shopping for new underwear yellow for (gold) money and red for love. Last year, I wore a pair of each and, in all honesty, both love and a few extra pesos found me, so you never know.

Whatever colour underwear you choose, I wish you a happy, healthy, bright and prosperous New Year and everyday. See you in 2015!

Letter to Editor Dear Editor,

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e wished to send thanks to all of our sponsors and all the people whocelebrated with Stratos Media and made possible the "Sunset Christmas Party" this Holiday season at Mangos Beach Club. It was a beautiful evening full of music, fun, Christmas spirit

and delicious hors d'oeuvres by "JD's BBQ Sports Bar and Grill" and Sapori di Sicilia.

We would also like to thank VallartaTickets.com regarding the help they gave this event.

On behalf of Stratos Media we wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

Friday Dec 26, 2014, Jan 1st, 2015

SPCA of Puerto Vallarta

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he SPCA volunteers had a fun day at the Old Town Farmer's Market last Saturday. We had the Salvation Army children's choir singing in the background. Our most popular item for sale was the SPCA 2015 calendar, which is selling out fast. What a great gift to give at Christmas. Actually, you are giving twice. Once to whomever receives the calendar and once to the SPCA when you buy the calendar, every peso you pay for the calendar goes directly to support our rescued animals.

The cost of printing the calendar is paid by our sponsors that have their pet's picture in the calendar.

Our volunteers wish a very Merry Christmas to all our generous supporters.

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.

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.

Our special volunteer of the week is Ruby Thomsen, owner of Pet Pampering (www. facebook.com/petpampering) in Victoria. Her dedication has been such a breath of fresh air for our British Columbia needs. She has been a terrific foster mom to a number of our rescues in the BC area awaiting their forever homes.

You too can come and spend a rewarding afternoon cuddling the animals at Puerto Vallarta’s SPCA Sanctuary. Our dogs and cats are awaiting “forever homes” and your help is needed to jump start their socialization. The goal is to get these animals adjusted and ready to interact in the real world. The majority of the SPCA animals either come from extremely abusive situations or they have been abandoned. Your love and attention can make up for that sad history. During your visit, you can interact with the animals and even take a dog (or two or three) for a walk. You can also play with the animals, assist the vet or help with dinner time.

We have scheduled tours each week and vehicle space is limited. We ask everyone to meet in the Costco parking lot beside the three large trees in open grassy area. 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 anywhere from one to four hours in length. Please feel free to bring donations and treats for sanctuary staff as they truly appreciate it.

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.

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Grupo Bimbo buys Canada’s Saputo

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he Mexican bakery company expands its Canadian presence One of the world’s largest bakeries, Mexico-based Grupo Bimbo, has increased its presence in Canada with the purchase of Saputo Bakery Inc., a division of the dairy company Saputo Inc. and Canada’s largest snack-cake manufacturer.

Bimbo will make the CAD $120-million purchase through its other Canadian property, Canada Bread Company, which it bought last year from Maple Leaf Foods for $1.83 billion.

Grupo Bimbo said in a press release it expects Saputo to generate annual sales of $130 million and EBITDA (earnings

before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) of $15.5 million. Bimbo has 43% of the bread market in Canada through Canada Bread, with 16 factories. Founded in 1945, Bimbo’s sales in 2013 were nearly US $14 billion. It operates more than 150

plants and its products are sold in 21 countries.

The Saputo purchase is expected to close in the first quarter of 2015, subject to regulatory approval.

sance, the Aztecs controlled a large empire with a complex social and economic organization and world vision.

Multimedia touch screens reveal the mysteries of this culture rich in folklore, from the origins and evolution of the Aztec

people to their religious beliefs and rituals, the life of their royals and commoners, their markets, trade and agriculture, war and the Spanish conquest that finally brought about the fall of the empire. australianmuseum.net.au

Mexican WinsYoung Space Leaders Prize The Aztec Empire Extends to Oceania

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he Mexican musician Nahum Mantra was recently awarded the Young Space Leaders Prize by the International Astronautical Federation, marking the first time it has ever gone to an artist.

Mantra, who composes music for a variety of media and instruments and who has founded musical ensembles like the Orchestra Elastique, was presented with his prize at the International Astronautical Congress in Toronto, where he was named a world leader in the field of space exploration.

His next stop is Russia, where he plans to conduct artistic experiments on zero gravity parabolic flights.

Roger Malina, whose father, Frank Malina, founded NASA’s

Jet Propulsion Laboratory, qualified Mantra’s achievement as a landmark in the history of space exploration, adding that he “belongs to a new generation of young artists [...] that will influence the ideas of tomorrow and make the future of space exploration possible.”

The Young Space Leaders Prize is awarded to people aged between 21 and 35 who have shown exceptional leadership in the field of astronautics, who have made major contributions to the sector, are involved with the space community and have shared their experiences and know-how. What makes Mantra’s win so special is that this is the first time the work of an artist has been considered an important aspect of the sector’s agenda. www.iafastro.org

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he itinerant exhibition Aztecs, Conquest and Glory has received thousands of visitors on its travels through Europe. In midSeptember 2014, it opened at the Australian Museum, where it will remain until February 1, 2015.

A wonderful opportunity for people in other parts of the world to learn more about the Aztec civilization, the exhibition consists of no less than 266 artifacts from museums like the Teotihuacán Archaeological Zone, the National Anthropology Museum, the National Viceroyalty Museum and the National Anthropology and History Library, including breathtaking possessions of Aztec rulers crafted by skilled artisans.

In the 15th Century, while Europe was entering the Renais-

New York to Recreate Frida Kahlo’s Garden

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ew York’s Botanical Garden plans to stage a recreation of Frida Kahlo’s garden and studio home as part of the exhibition Frida Kahlo: Art, Garden and Life that will be showing from May 16 through November 1, 2015.

Featuring species of flowers and plants Frida planted in her garden, mainly ones native to Mexico, the aim of the exhibition is to illustrate the textures and colors of these same flowers and plants that appear in her portraits and other works.

Source: mexiconewsdaily.com

A dozen paintings and original drawings of Frida’s inspired by botanical themes will also be on show, along with a few works by her husband, Diego Rivera.

This will be the first exhibition of Frida’s work held in New York in over a quarter of a century.

Kahlo (1907-1954) was born in Mexico City, where she had two main homes: the Blue House in the Coyoacán district, and her studio home in San Ángel, where she produced some 100 works.

www.nybg.org

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Slim promotes universal access to art

By Devon Van Houten Maldonado

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he name Carlos Slim plays on lips across Mexico every day, as the “richest man in the world” and his many enterprises have deep ties to nearly every sector. What casual citizens may not know is that Slim and his family have one of the most valuable art collections in the world, headquartered at the Soumaya Museum in Mexico City.

This month the museum celebrated its 20th anniversary with a bejeweled and bubbly Friday night bash hosted at the museum he named after his late wife.

As host, he greeted and rubbed shoulders with the city’s most powerful movers and shakers. Security guards kept a close range and business phone calls were taken to the perimeter where informal meetings took place between the Mexican elite.

Mingling among million-dollar masterworks by giants of their time – Vincent Van Gogh, Rene Magritte and Salvador Dali, among dozens of others – patrons of the Carlos Slim Foundation enjoyed finger food, cocktails and wine.

Although the celebration was elite, the foundation and the speakers emphasized social responsibility and the mission to diffuse art through social classes, creating universal educational access. With his turn at the mic, Slim emphasized the familial

nature of the organization and the museum.

“When the museum was inaugurated, entrance was free and it will continue to be free so that this is an open museum,” he said. “We welcome young people, families and any person who is interested in knowing and visiting the work.”

The Soumaya Museum is only one of the institutions under the umbrella of the Slim foundation. Since 1986, Slim and his collaborators have worked in the fields of education, health, nutrition, social justice, culture, human development, natural disaster aid, economic development, environmental conservation and protection, Latin American aid and sports.

“Modern society is supported by the well-being of others and thus the best investment is to fight poverty,” says the foundation’s mission statement.

What began as a personal hobby and passion for the business mogul manifested into a museum in 1994. The museum was founded at Plaza Loreto, a turn-of-the-century mansion in the south of Mexico City. The inaugural exhibition highlighted the crown jewel of Slim’s collection, the largest Auguste Rodin collection on earth.

Slim said that opening the museum was an idea eight or nine years in the making, springing from his love for art and

ADORABLE DOG IN THE SPOTLIGHT...NINO

by Janice Gonzalez This poor little guy was one of many animals displaced by Hurricane Odile this year. An animal lover from Los Cabos opened her house to foster three dogs whose owners lost their homes during the hurricane and couldn´t care for them anymore. Unable to personally care for all the dogs she rescued she contacted us for help in finding Nino a new family.

Nino is 15 pounds of pure joy. He is a bit over a year old and adorable. Nino is the absolute cutest Maltese mix, playful and loving! When not playing, he just wants to cuddle with his human companion. Nino has been spayed, dewormed and is up to date on all his vaccinations. Won’t you consider giving

his little guy a new chance at a fur-ever family? Contact us at spcapv@gmail.com.

casual conversations with his inner circle. In combination with a family passion for philanthropy, the museum was focused on institutional cooperation and universal access from the start.

“It is very important to put new work into circulation and work in coordination with other museums and the city,” said Slim at the anniversary celebration. “We collaborate extensively with other museums in Mexico, Europe and even farther.”

With a growing audience and deepening roster of important classic and modern works, the Soumaya Museum moved into its current home in 2011. The architectural jewel of the Mexico City skyline boasts an impressive 7,500 square meters of show space with permanent and rotating exhibitions spanning five floors. The one-of-a-kind building by architect Fernando Romero looks like a spaceship ready to blast off to other galaxies. It welcomes visitors into its cavernous, spiraling galleries free of charge.

As the viewer ascends up the levels of the museum they also ascend through time, culminating in the light-filled and spectacular top floor sculpture gallery. The collection includes European antiquities dripping with jewels and gold, religious relics and impressionist paintings. Additionally, the museum highlights some of

Friday Dec 26, 2014, Jan 1st, 2015

Mexico’s Foreign Reserves Rise by $68 Million

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exico’s foreign reserves rose by $68 million last week to $192.37 billion, the Bank of Mexico said.

Gold and foreign currency reserves rose in the week ending Dec. 11 mainly due to the change in the value of the bank’s foreign assets. Reserves have grown by $15.84 billion since Jan. 1, the Bank of Mexico said in a statement. The M1 money supply, which includes currency, coins and demand deposits, expanded by 44.52 billion pesos (about $3.03 billion) to 1.02 trillion pesos (some $69.07 billion) last week, the central bank said.

The money supply has expanded by 97.41 billion pesos ($6.63 billion) since Jan. 1.

Source: www.laht.com

Mexico’s most important artists.

Artwork at the Soumaya tells the story of the nation through paintings of the conquest, independence, revolution and modernism.

The museum is indeed familial, even in its construction. The architect is married to the famous businessman’s daughter, Soumaya Slim, current president of the museum named for her mother.

Romero, his wife, Roberto Slim and museum director Alfonso Miranda were on hand to celebrate the anniversary. Miranda introduced Slim senior and thanked the families and individuals who help to support the museum. Slim thanked all of the expert staff who work tirelessly to preserve and present the extensive collection. “This building was

Flower of the Week Poinsettia Noche Buena (Spanish) Euphorbia pulcherrima

inaugurated about three and a half years ago,” said Slim. “We have the enormous pleasure and privilege of having received many visitors since then. There have been around 3.8 million visitors to this building.”

Slim said that while the museum grew, moved into its new building and expanded its collection, the mission has always been the same: To create an inclusive and open space where visitors can enjoy and learn about art.

At the closing, Slim announced that in the coming year, the museum will have longer hours, inaugurate new special collections and welcome visiting exhibitions from other museums.

Original: The News

Sandra Cesca

Christmas Flower. A favorite for the holiday season, this plant in the red and green colors of Christmas can reach 12 feet when grown in the wild. Hybrids in white, pink, and yellow are also found. Aztecs produced a red dye from the flower and used preparations as an antipyretic medication. Toxicity is relatively mild however the latex sap can cause an allergic reaction in sensitive individuals. This plant is one of over 200 found in Sandra’s color-coded guidebook, Tropical Plants and Walks of Puerto Vallarta. Available at Page in the Sun Bookstore, and from Sandra at Vallarta Farmer’s Markets on Fridays and Saturdays. Information on her many area walks can be found at: www.escaperoutevallarta.com.

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Mexico:Feeding the World

By Jesús Estrada Cortés

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n Mexico, the food industry is growing steadily; in a territory with geographical, cultural and commercial advantages, the industry is finding the right conditions for consolidation, backing technology and innovation.

The natural richness of Mexico’s geography and culinary traditions inherited throughout history has contributed to the development of an industry that is feeding the world. Nature, culture and technology work together with the food industry in Mexico, which is now the third largest producer of processed foods in America, the second largest supplier of food to the US and the eighth largest producer in the world.

Avocado, vanilla, cocoa, cactus, amaranth, dahlias and agave –the plant from which tequila and mezcal are distilled– are some of the 200 varieties of crops originating in Mexico, which for centuries have formed the basis of Mexico’s rich culinary culture; it is no wonder that Unesco has declared Mexican food an Intangible World Heritage.

Food imports from other parts of the world have been added to this base of native cultures and culinary traditions, contributing to the diversification and expansion of industry in Mexico.

The Ministry of Economy (SE) indicates that the growth of the industry in Mexico is due to several factors, such as production capacity, agricultural resources, economic growth, the expansion of the middle class and low manufacturing costs.

Although much of the population’s diet is made up of traditional products or dishes such as corn or wheat tortillas, ready to eat and frozen foods have gained popularity in Mexico as a result of people’s changing lifestyles.

In 2013, Mexican exports in the export sector recorded a value of 8.4 billion USD, and between 2006 and 2013 grew at an AAGR of 11%. The main export destination was the US (70%), followed

by Japan (6%), Guatemala (2%) and Venezuela (2%).

While the US prevails as the main export destination for Mexican industry, exports are diversifying.

For example, sales to the UK grew by 140%, explained by

the shipment of products such as sugar cane and molasses.

Another destination for which exports increased compared to 2012 was Switzerland, with an increase of 166% thanks to products like sugar cane, prepared sauces, extracts, essences and concentrates of coffee, jams, jellies and marmalades.

The principal products exported by Mexico in 2013 were sugar cane –with a remarkable growth of 58%– baked goods, chocolate, confectionery and coffee.

Other products whose exports

increased in 2013 were malt extract, with a growth rate of 20% over the previous year, chilled or frozen pork (23%) and sugars such as fructose (29%).

Much of the growth in the industry’s volume and sales are due to international investment in Mexico. In 2013, the food industry in the country attracted foreign direct investment (FDI) amounting to 734 million USD: the cumulative FDI between 2003 and 2013 reached a value of 22.2 billion USD. The countries that made the largest investments over that period were the Netherlands

(60% of total FDI), the US (19%), Switzerland (17%) and Japan (1.4%).

A Dish with Many Opportunities According to an article by Damien Cave in The New York Times on May 31, 2014, Mexico is considered the most competitive place to manufacture industrial goods for the North American marketplace.

The competitive advantages of the processed foods sector in Mexico lie in the country’s agricultural and climatic diversity, along with the geographical proximity

to the world’s largest market –the US– tariff- free goods thanks to multiple free trade agreements, abundant raw materials that are available throughout the year, skilled labor and technology.

In addition, Mexico is considered a competitive country in manufacturing costs for the processed food industry. According to the KPMG study Competitive Alternatives 2014, Mexico offers cost savings of up to 9.1% compared to the US. In the country there are also plenty of opportunities for food exports, with a wide range of products, both fresh and

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Paradise and Parenting

Leza Warkentin mommyinmexico.wordpress.com

Holiday Happenings

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processed, that also meet the health safety standards of the world’s major markets.

In that sense, the SE indicates that there are niche markets with high demand that Mexico is able to meet, where sophisticated marketing is key and it is necessary to invest in certification and market knowledge.

For example, a segment with high potential is Halal-certified food. The Muslim population –almost 2,000 million people– represents one fifth of world population. Mexico exports numerous products that could receive Halal certification,

such as milk, agave syrup, beef, chicken, mayonnaise, ketchup, cocoa and cocoa derivatives, guava paste, food coloring, alcohol-free vanilla, carbon of mineral or vegetable origin and artificial flavorings.

Some products that are already certified include hamburger meat, sesame seeds, dehydrated products such as egg white, tomatoes and organic and inorganic chemical products that are used in small quantities for food and fishery products, among others.

As for the Canadian market, Mexico is the eighth largest

supplier of processed foods and imports in 2013 were valued at 222 million USD. The main products that Canada bought from Mexico were chocolate, coffee, cooked or frozen fruit, prepared or preserved fruits and confectionery.

That recipe, which combines tradition and modernity, nature and technology, is increasingly attracting investors to cultivate the fertile industrial fields of Mexico.

The outlook suggests that the food industry will continue to grow, with the support of innovation, meeting the needs of the world’s growing population.

he children and I have begun our Christmas vacation after a very busy school term, and we have reached an unspoken agreement to engage ourselves in activities that require no more brain power than it takes to fill a bucket with sand. Yesterday we did just that, along with a few half-hearted tries at a game of frozen tag on the beach.

We are following Gilberto around, because sometimes he plays at beautiful beach restaurants where we can possibly get a musician’s discount, and because then we don’t have to make any sort of decision beyond deciding what flavor of frozen yogurt we want after lunch. He’s being good-natured about the enforced Drag Your Family to Work Week. But then again, he wasn’t given much choice.

If you would like to see him play some good classic rock and oldies while his family sits in beach chairs and orders frozen limonadas on his account, come down to El Rio BBQ on Friday from 4 to 6. If you’d like to see more of him and less of us, you can catch him at Paradise Burger at 8pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and Nacho Daddy at 8pm on Tuesdays with Chris Kenny.

Since we are on the subject of holiday joy and giving (more or less), I wanted to bring my readers’ attention to an amazing organization in Puerto Vallarta that is in great need of our support. I became aware of the Orquestra Escuela de Puerto Vallarta (OEPV) when my son’s violin teacher, Mary McLachlan, suggested it to me for those months when she is not in Vallarta. It’s set in the heart of Pitillal, cobblestone streets and tiny shops surrounding the white school building.

What we found when we arrived for a tour was a busy school, with the sounds of brass, wood, and strings floating out of

every classroom. But what we also experienced was a community, teachers greeting shy students by name, children and teens laughing and chatting in the common area. Everyone had an instrument and a smile.

And a community was exactly the goal of the founders of OEPV. This program’s purpose involves developing “musicians with the intention of expanding their outlook and forming a better community within the city”. Just like a single instrument becomes an integral part of an orchestra, so do children at OEPV learn to become integral, active parts of the greater community.

Some of the young orchestra members have already played with the Puerto Vallarta Chamber Orchestra as their skills and talents are developed in this marvelous school. My own son is currently taking weekly lessons with a caring, talented instructor with the goal of eventually becoming part of the orchestra.

I am thrilled because his confidence, enthusiasm and motivation for the violin are currently through the roof. He is thrilled because he can now play several bars of the themes of Star Wars, The Pink Panther, and The Hobbit. What more could a 10-year-old boy want out of the violin?

But here’s the thing. When we went to fill out the forms, we were immediately and cheerfully informed by the office staff that no one is turned away because they have trouble paying tuition (before we even asked about the fees). And the reality is that we pay is a fraction of what we would pay for a program of the same quality in Canada.

In other words, the folks at OEPV aren’t just in it to make some music. They are in it to change some lives. And we can help.

If you want to know more, check out this link: h tt p : / / w w w. g o f u n d m e . c o m / orquestaescuelapv.

You can also find them on Facebook under the name Orquesta Escuela de Puerto Vallarta.

Old Town Farmers Marke OTFM Takes a Moment to Reflect Download 200,000+ brand logos in vector format for free http://www.logoeps.com/

By Erin Staley

E

very Saturday, Old Town Farmers’ Market-Tianguis Cultural shoppers are treated to an exceptional spread of “make it, bake it, grow it” goodies. You’ll find traditional market items – farm-to-table produce, aromatic flowers and freshly baked goods – as well as the charm of this international community.

Meet the Market

Ours is a festive “producer” style market that celebrates the tradition and culture of Mexico’s outdoor tianguis markets.

In 2009, market founder, Charlotte Semple, recognized that the area was rich with talented artisans and local growers and that shoppers craved something unique. She believed that a market was greatly needed in the heart of Old Town Vallarta.

Vendors, volunteers and local officials, teamed up with Charlotte

to open the OTFM-TC in March 2010. It was a huge hit with over 800 national and international shoppers coming to socialize, enjoy live entertainment and scoop up their favorite products.

Today, the OTFM-TC is in its 6th season. It is now a registered non-profit/association civil organization that focuses on the “buy local” movement as well as entrepreneurial and community development.

Over 100,000 shoppers visit every November through April to scoop up ready-to-eat artisan foods, baked goods, local produce, body products, pre-hispanic musical instruments, home décor, jewelry, custom made clothing, fashion accessories, unique arts and crafts. Non-profit organizations, live music and on-site massage and chiropractic services add to the fun-filled, family-friendly atmosphere.

But it isn’t just the food, products and services that make the OTFM-TC a favorite weekend attraction. It's the people and community organizations that

support our Saturday.

market

every

A Word of “Thanks”

As we reflect on the continued success of the OTFM-TC, we extend a hearty “thank you” to those individuals and organizations that have made the market such a success over the past 6 seasons.

Endless thanks to the tourism and licensing departments of the City of Puerto Vallarta, the Asociacion de Vecinos de la Colonia Emiliano Zapata and numerous other individuals and organizations that have supported the market. Our hats are off to the market's volunteers, Board of Directors, Vendor Selection Committee and over 90 dedicated vendors who share their products each week. We are delighted to partner with you every Saturday and look forward to an even better market season in 2015!

We also want to recognize those vendors who have contributed to the success of previous

market seasons but have moved on to follow other opportunities.

To name but a few:Luis Romero, Nina Goodhope, Candace Shaw, Felix Perez, Jeff Obser, Oscar Diaz, Michel Pascal Ferrari, Elizabeth Reeder, Sylvie Scopazzo, Denise Rosenfeld, Christian Calvento, Britta Jan Kay, George Stigar, Kathryn Graves, Daniela Aguilar, Mireya & Abraham Amaral, Cheri Verber, Kyle and Irma Quast, Isis Eglé, Larry and Eve Dorwart, Victor Escalante and Carole Fast as the traffic police.

You're Invited!

Come on out and join us this Saturday (9:30-2 in Lazaro

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Cárdenas Park, Old Town) for artisan products, live music and unforgettable moments in sunny Vallarta.

Of course, the International Food Court (located under shaded pergolas on the eastern side of Lazaro Cárdenas Park) is always ready to serve up a plate of deliciousness: Thai, Indian, traditional Mexican favorites (tacos, empanadas, burritos and green pozole) and vegan dishes, such as hamburgers, al pastor and falafels.

We're open every Saturday from November 1 through April 25. For market updates, 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 Dec 26, 2014, Jan 1st, 2015

Living In La Cruz

Vallarta

Pride

By Bill Hevener, ACT LGBT A.C. vallartapride.com

A Gay Old Time in Vallarta

F

ew people are aware of the hard work of the many individuals who promote Puerto Vallarta worldwide.

Gustavo Rivas-Solis of Latitude International is one of these people who have been working and advocating for the LGBT community with the city for years now. His firm, Latitude International is an international communications agency offering marketing, public relations, special events and representation to travel and tourism businesses and lifestyle brands looking to gain marketing exposure in Canada and the US among other places.

ACT LGBT AC was lucky enough to get an interview with Gustavo about his promotional work of the LGBT segment here in Puerto Vallarta.

How was the Vallarta Pride committee able to use your services for the media outlets for the 1st Pride?

Gustavo: LATITUDE as the PR agency for the Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board promoted Vallarta Pride via press releases that were sent out to over 2,000 media outlets in the USA and Canada, marketing in outlets such as Xtra! Passport magazine and Out magazine and events such as the GLAAD Awards, IGLTA Conference, and World Pride.

Last year’s media coverage on Vallarta Pride specifically generated an estimated $234,858.75 in PR value. 11% of LATITUDE promotions in 2013 targeted the LGBT market directly and 18% of our events were toward the LGBT market.

Did the city give you a budget to promote PV as a gay friendly destination for the first time after the formation of ACT and the First Pride?

The Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board started funding a specific

promotion of the destination in the LGBT market in the US and Canada 4 years ago, including becoming an active member of the IGLTA, the first destination to do so in Mexico.

What has some of the work completed and what have you been doing since that time?

We have been involved in GLAAD Awards for the past 4 years, sponsored the Harvey Milk High School for 3 years in a row, Gay Men’s Health Crisis 3 years in a row, pitched and brought Out Magazine to Mexico for 2013 travel issue, and were at the original LGBT Expo in NY for 3 years. This year we were involved in NYC travel expo, Toronto Travel Expo, and Toronto World Pride.

What activities did you organize for the LGBT tourist sector?

People may not be aware but most of our press core trips include an LGBT media outlet.

We did a group trip for Vallarta Pride 2014 and we had an LGBT group in our bloggers trip but all our group trips have an LGBT outlet or journalists. We try to bring a journalist from each of the segments we are proactively promoting.

8. What are some of the articles or press that has been generated by these trips? Are there others you know about from the first press trip? pride.jbonair.com www.latina. com/lifestyle/travel/ lgbt-gay-friendly-hotels-trips#1 quirkytravelguy. com/why-puerto-vallarta-great-lgbt-destination

Gustavo, thanks so much for your time and being a strong advocate of the LGBT community here in Puerto Vallarta.

Vallarta Pride Week will be celebrated May 17-25th and themed around Unity. There are special events planned all week.

More information at vallartapride. com

www.vallartatribune.com

By Cindy Bouchard

Christmas Dinner and more

I

cannot deny I miss my kids and family during the Christmas season! Having said that I so much prefer Christmas in Mexico.

In my neck of the beach there is little to no commercialism… it truly is about getting together and giving back.

Similar to Christmas in all parts of the world, we gather with others over the holidays. Many of us who prefer the tranquility and lack of Christmas hustle bustle get together in smaller groups, my favourite this year was a ladies cookie exchange where it was more about the get-together than the cookies.

Everyone brought something for the less fortunate and then proceeded to giggle and share the many experiences of like-minded people in a foreign land.

Assisting, donating and giving love and gifts at local orphanages during Christmas is a privilege

many embrace. The gift of love the children return in smiles and hugs are the best gift I’ve ever received.

This year Mandy and friends from the Britannia Pub gave gifts to the kids at the state orphanage. They even brought Santa and his elf!

At Philo’s, a local bar, many locals, boaters and tourists get together to 1) donate time and money for toys for kids and 2) to wrap the presents and 3) to share the joy of the children receiving the gifts from Santa.

On Christmas day, the local children line up around the block in grand anticipation to receive a gift from Santa Claus. As they and their mothers receive gifts dinner is served, potluck style, to many more. Philo and his team play Santa and his elves, gifting the turkey and the service. Diners bring a side dish to compliment the turkey. Once the gifts and dinner is complete, like any family gathering the partying begins… in this instance the party is complete with

Thanks

By Terry Connell

A

few years ago, my good friend Jeff came to the horrifying realization that he’d spent much, if not all, of his life being selfish. He decided that in order to balance the equation of 40+ years as self-involved ingrate, he would sit down and write “Thank You” for every day of his life. As he considered his plan, it occurred to him that writing the words down wasn’t enough – it was too much like a grade school punishment.

In order to make his task actually mean something, Jeff thought he should to share this newfound sense of gratitude with the world around him

– maybe even set it in motion and generate some appreciative ripples in the pond of life.

The first phase of my friend’s project was to write “Thank You” over 16,000 times – on little stickers. It took over three months of effort. He said there were times when he was writing when he’d think about his past, his friends, family, different memories long buried under an adult’s responsibilities.

More than once, he broke down into gut wrenching tears; sorry for the way he’d lived, and how he’d treated people.

Every sticker, every letter he wrote, literally created a space of appreciation and unders-

Philo’s Mexican shuffle band providing live music for all to enjoy.

Gift giving in Mexico is historically on King’s Day which is January 6th. On this day there is a special tradition of sharing a cake, Rosca de Reyes, a wreath shaped cake into which a small pottery doll is baked. The person served the slice with the doll is expected to host a party at their home on February 2nd inviting everyone who shared the cake to a meal of tamales.

For many other Christmas dinner options in La Cruz de Huancaxtle check out Landon Hollander’s compilation of all the menus served for Christmas at http://www.insidelacruz.com/articles/1474-christmas-menus-for-lacruz.html.

In 2015, I look forward to sharing stories of those who make La Cruz special. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and yours! Feliz Navidad y feliz año nuevo!

tanding his life was missing.

Phase Two involved distributing the stickers all over town.

He walked by old places of employment, old girlfriends’ homes, bars and restaurants, parks and bookstores, planting thank you stickers on door jams and mailboxes and windows. Sometimes, he’d just walk down a street and place a sticker on every parking meter he passed; wondering, hoping, people would see them and take a moment to consider the words that appeared in front of them. Once, an elderly woman watched Jeff tagging a row of telephone poles, and when he explained his project, she asked for some stickers, saying she wanted to help.

As he ripped three or four stickers for her, she shook her head and grabbed three full sheets out of his hand saying, “I know a few people who could use a little time giving thanks.”

As I heard this story, I wondered if this woman was talking about me.

ART 11

www.vallartatribune.com

Of Markets and Men

By R.L. Avery avery1@mac.com

L

ast week I wrote of the fall of Rome and made some fantastic equations to modern times. In discussion with friends there seems to be a consensus that, human nature does not change. Take the most recent accusation of fraud against twelve State Attorneys General for example; “ What else is new? ” was a common refrain.

It seems to me that if the United States is expected to cheat it’s own people and game the system, it most certainly relinquishes any moral superiority it might enjoy on a world stage. Isn’t that yet another sign of an imminent downfall?

How can the United Nations condemn developing, third world or any other nation for torture, when the 46th Vice President of the United States says, “Yes I did it and I’d do it again.” That same Vice President collected a “deferred retirement benefit” from Halliburton whilst steering tax dollars in their direction with a flurry of lies about weapons of mass destruction. In the end he refused to relinquish his office’s records to the National Archives because he claimed the office of the Vice President is not part of the Executive Branch! Franklin Roosevelt by the way saw the formation of United Nations as the crowning achievement of his political carreer.

Perhaps we need to regress in certain situations.

Wouldn’t it be something to see if the senate fell some of

Printed with permission

these characters proclaiming, “Enough is Enough.” Shouldn’t the public’s appetite for justice be appeased as much as it’s desire for entertainment?

I’ve been asked to discuss Currencies and in a sense I have. It is not a mistake to refer to morality and justice has having an intrinsic value. The fact that the money of many countries is also being eroded along with values is not a coincidence.

The Russian Ruble lost 30 % of it’s value last Monday.

Putin raised the interest rate to 17% overnight in an effort to save it. That’s the biggest bump since the country defaulted in nineteen-ninety-eight. The Japanese have started to print money as have the People’s Bank of China. The European’s promise to do more and all of a sudden the United States say’s they will stop. Not only that they will raise rates. Now assuming you don’t feel comfortable buying rubles you might take the opportunity to bring money back to the United States. One because, you distrust it the least and two, because they may actually give you some money for holding you’re money.

It’s complicated and it’s basic.

In a fearful environment money seeks a safe harbor. The U..S is that place now. All currencies will fall against it. None will be spared. Another salient point is that resources are getting hammered. Petro-dollars are getting pounded because of the low price of oil.

That is all I can possibly afford to tell you at the moment because I am running short of what I would consider, the only real currency in the world, Time.

My nephews are screaming at me to join them in the driveway for ball-hockey. I must go and spend what I have wisely. I hope this holiday season you do the same.

Friday Dec 26, 2014, Jan 1st, 2015

Brewster Brockmann Opens at Galeria Pacifico on Dec. 30 & Jan. 7

O

ne of Puerto Vallarta’s favorite and most talented artists, Brewster Brockmann, will present his newest work at his thirteenth solo exhibition with Galeria Pacifico during inaugurations on December 30 and January 7.

These will both be during the weekly 6:00 to 10:00 PM Art Walks in the historic zone downtown, but the show on the 30th has been scheduled on Tuesday, instead of Wednesday as usual, because of the placement of New Year’s Eve this season.

Brockmmann’s work combines a rare blend of

extreme artistic ability (Master’s degree from Cranbrook Institute) with an extensive knowledge of indigenous cultures of Mexico (an expert on ceremonial masks), as well as a highly developed sensitivity for all living things (Bachelor’s degree in biology with a minor in botany.) In addition to amazing

sculptures in terra cotta and bronze, the two dimensional work features animals, humans, ancient symbols and masks masterfully blended on different visual levels on paper, board and canvas with pencil, acrylic or oils. Brewster comes from a deep gene pool of artists, designers and architects on both sides of his family, and in Guadalajara where he grew up the Brockmanns go back nearly 200 years.

His exhibition will be mounted through January 24 and can be viewed from 10:30 AM to 7:30 PM at the gallery’s second floor location at 174 Aldama, but Galeria Pacifico always maintains a significant display with their exclusive representation of Brewster Brockmann in Puerto Vallarta.

Barb Nettleton

Celebrating the New Year

F

ireworks, ringing bells, 12 grapes, a family dinner, sparkling wine, hugs and music set the stage for a typical New Year's celebration in Mexico. As in the rest of the world, we Mexicans gather together with our loved ones, relatives or friends to celebrate what we’ve shared during the past year and to wish a better one for everyone.

It’s very traditional to eat 12 grapes at the moment that the countdown begins to welcome the New Year, representing 12 wishes; lentils are spread around the door as a symbol of abundance; sweeping toward the outside of the home, to drive everything bad from the previous year out of it, or using red underwear that night to attract love, or yellow to attract money...

Also rituals are still preserved in Mexico whose origins date back to pre-Hispanic times.

The various cultures that inhabited what is now Mexico also celebrated the end of one cycle and the beginning of another, which did not necessarily have the duration of the current year.

And although each had its own calendars and rituals, in general, they shared some fundamental concepts and elements. For them, time was not linear, but cyclical. That is, every so often, the most important events were repeated, such as the seasons and the movements of the stars, as well as the periods of war, the dreaded years of drought or

Happy 2015

devastating floods.

That’s why the ancient Mexicans were great observers of nature and even had several calendars such as religious and agricultural ones, which determined all the activities within every sector of society, from planting to the most favorable time to wage war.

Both the Mayans and the Aztecs performed very solemn ceremonies, rituals and sacrifices to thank the gods for the beginning of a new era. Fire was a fundamental part in all of them, because in Pre-Hispanic cultures, fire is the purifying element par excellence.

And it is precisely these two elements, fire and the observation of the natural environment, which have survived in the New Year celebration among Mexico’s populations. Some other traditional ways of celebrating include: The Totonac of Veracruz perform a ritual involving the community healers and the blood offering of chickens, tamales, bread and flowers to the ancient gods.

In Oaxaca, young zoques dress up as "huehues" (elders) and "burn" the old year to then go celebrate at a carnival held in the community’s homes. In other villages, the elderly use rockets to illuminate the sky and carefully observe it at the precise arrival of the new year. That’s how they know whether it will be a year of rain or drought.

The cabañuelas have great

importance in rural Mexico. The name derives from the sixteenth month of the Mayan calendar: Caban, and refers to the detailed observation of the climate during the initial 12 days of the year, in order to predict the weather for the next 12 months. It is known that this system of observation, which seems so empiric, was also used by the most ancient cultures of humanity; Babylon and Israel.

In addition many indigenous peoples retain their own account of the years and celebrate their "new year" on different dates, such as the Seri, in the desert of Sonora, northern Mexico, who celebrate it on June 30 and on July 1. Likewise, in Santiago Tuxtla, Veracruz, the new Mesoamerican year is celebrated on the first Friday in March by way of a ritual offering to the sun.

Most charmingly though, the custom called el "recalentado" (the "re-heated") is a long-standing tradition rooted throughout Mexico, quite in keeping with the festive and generous character of the Mexicans and also with the abundant and delicious national gastronomy. It consists simply of sharing the next morning what was left over from the dinner with either the same or other guests. It is said that the recalentado is even more delicious than the dinner itself...

Feliz Año Nuevo!

Original: inside-mexico.com

LOCAL 14

Friday Dec 26, 2014, Jan 1st, 2015

10 Great Things About Living in Gringo Gulch

By Fabien Madesclaire Fabien@g3mex.com

J

ust the other day I overheard a tour guide in Gringo Gulch refer to the area as “North American Gulch”, which made me laugh. I guess he thought that Gringo has pejorative connotations. Curious to find out more about more, I typed the word on my iPhone, and was led to the all-knowing information site Wikipedia, which has a plethora of information regarding the etymology of Gringo. One interesting factoid that popped up: “Gringos is what, in Malaga, they call foreigners who have a certain type of accent that prevents them from speaking Castilian easily and naturally; and in Madrid they give the same name, in particular, to the Irish.” Who knew?

Tours regularly traverse the crooked and enchanting streets of Gringo Gulch, as it a truly quaint and wonderful example of all that is beautiful about our town. Its proximity to shopping, restaurants and nightlife, make it a dream location for residents and tourists alike. Here are some of my top 10 reasons for choosing Gringo Gulch.

1.

An Amazing Variety of Properties. This area has everything from quaint little casitas to beautiful big villas surrounded by bougainvillea and hanging gardens. And there are also many charming condos and apartments tucked away in hidden alleyways and streets.

2.A Great Neighborhood Feel.

small tiendas, Oxxo, a papelaria, a laundry, the a community center at the corner of Calle Miramar, which boasts the International Friendship Club (a great resource for expats) and Proulex and CEPE which offer both Spanish and English classes, and if you are starving, and need a quick bite, the small stand on the corner of Matamoros serves one of the yummiest fresh ceviche tostadas around.

7.

After about one week of living here you will know everyone, and you won’t get 20 ft without stopping to have a conversation with one of your neighbors.

Great Nightlife. El patio de mi casa has a full bar and a pizza oven, and they also regularly host excellent bands and DJs.

3.Views. Whether you want a

Cool Breezes. Even on the hottest day, Gringo Gulch seems to be magically situated in such a way that you will always get a great breeze from the ocean or mountains.

sweeping view of the Bay of Banderas, or to gaze up at the gorgeous mountains Gringo Gulch is your spot.

4.

The Pedestrian Bridge. With our new pedestrian bridge you can easily access the island on the Rio Cuale. A perfect shortcut into downtown, with the added benefit of seeing all of the wildlife and activities on the island.

5.Great food. The best French

food in town can be found at Le Cigale Bistro. For the strict vegetarian we have the daily buffet at Planeta Vegetariano or, on the higher end of the scale there is the award winning Trio Café and the exquisitely beautiful Hacienda San Angel’s amazing dining room with views of the bay and one of the best mariachi bands around.

6.

Everything You Will Ever Need. Calle Guerrero (at the foot of Gringo Gulch) seems humble, but actually does have everything that you will ever need to sustain yourself. This street includes a hardware store, pharmacy, coffee house, internet café, several

8.

9

. World Class Lodging. Gringo Gulch is host to the world famous Hacienda San Angel boutique hotel. For those on a more modest budget check out Casa Amorita, a beautiful B&B, with astounding breakfasts, or for those who want to cook for themselves, La Dulce Vita can’t be beat. We even have our own gay friendly hotel, Villa David.

10. Landmark: Last, but not

least, we of host the landmark home of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, Casa Kimberly, with its famous pink bridge, and the ghosts of two remarkable and party loving celebrities. But what’s NOT to celebrate, when you live in this gorgeous spot in paradise?

Come by and visit our new G3MEX Real Estate office, just one block from Playa de los Muertos at Calle Amapas 114-B (near the Hotel Emperador), Zona Romantica. Phone: 044-322-1350424. www.g3mex.com

www.vallartatribune.com

New resolutions, new experiences

H

ola a todos! New Year’s Eve is coming up quickly, which means thinking about a resolution or two. What do you want to create in 2015? Being an energy medicine specialist is all about vibration, specifically raising ones vibrations to clear illness and disease on all levels; emotionally, mentally, spiritually and physically; understanding what is going on energetically around and on the planet and how that in turn affects our thoughts and emotions is also part of my job as a specialist.

Do you feel like time is going faster? Do you feel like you have more on your plate than ever before? Do you feel like you’re losing your memory? Right now the electromagnetic field (or grid) around the planet is becoming lighter; less dense. What does this mean for us? Our brains construction is electromagnetic.

Emotions are Magnetic and Thoughts are Electrical Our vibrations are being raised as we are literally moving into a higher dimension. We have been working from the 3rd dimension for a long time, a much slower vibration, with many moving in and out of the 4th, where it is easier to create.

Now, upon the shift with the last solstice on Sunday, now more than ever we have the opportunity to let go of the old patterns of emotional distress and physical illnesses as we move into the 5th dimension.

We cannot take “our baggage” into the 5th dimension. That old “stuff” will not resonate, meaning the lower vibrations just won’t be allowed in a higher frequency.

Those old memories of the “baggage” are being removed from our reality. We are doing this ourselves, and I also believe we have a lot of help from our “angels” or guides.

So, go ahead and lose those old stories and memories that don’t feel good…they are just that…Old Stories. If you don’t you may have one leg in the old energy and one it the new and it may feel like you’re doing the splits!

The Internal aspect of the earth is also warming up. There is more force than pressure on the earth right now. It’s also the same

for us mentally and emotionally.

With focus we can clear away old baggage memories; these old structures of past experience can fall away.

Living in the present Shifts of consciousness are opening up a new opportunity to choose a direction and engage in the moment; engaged and creating a reality. The entire world is in this transition. It is finally becoming clear we cannot continue to allow ourselves to think that things are going to take care of themselves. It is time to choose a better way by making cognitive choices.

The earth is also expressing herself. Right now there are about 78 active volcanoes.

This is 31 more than last year.

I find that pretty amazing! Other earth changes: in November alone we had 5 earthquakes over 6 on the Richter scale, with 70-80 at a 4.0 and 35 at a 5.0.

That’s a lot of large earthquakes in one month! We have also had an amazing amount of large solar flares X rated and rated since the equinox, which affects and altars the magnetic field around our world which in turn is continuing to diminish.

This is having a direct relationship to us, as again, what we think is electrical, and what we feel is magnetic.

It’s time to take responsibility for what you are experiencing. So, what will you create in the new year of 2015?

Energy medicine sessions will also help those old patterns and issues. Please contact me for sessions or more information at Cat@NewEnergyConsciousness.com Happy New Year to everyone!! Many blessings of loving kindness.

Cat Morgan is certified in Healing Touch International, Energy Medicine Partherships, Dual Reiki Master (Usui and Tibetan Usui), certified massage therapist, certified hypnotherapist specializing in life between life and past life regression, cranial sacral movement, and reflexology.

Cat Specializes in trauma release, clearing patterns and helping one to experience the remembering of who one is.

www.vallartatribune.com

riviera nayarit 15

Friday Dec 26, 2014, Jan 1st, 2015

La Cruz de Huanacaxtle New Year Eve’s Fun

Fun on the Riviera Nayarit

By Cat Morgan www.rivieranayaritfun.com

with Tatewari and Funkswagon rock & roll, Party with DJ till 4am!

Dress formal Black and White.

8pm-4am.

Mark’s Bar and Grill: Amazing menu selections including New Zealand lamb and natural N.Z. Venison Carpaccio. Dance to entertainment with Las Camellias, Victor on guitar with a singer.

Esquina 22 Bar and Lounge:

Enjoy live music of Stacey Joy while dining on bacon wrapped Filet Mignon or Mahi Mahi stuffed with shrimp and scallops.

Breakers Beach Club Bar

& Restaurant: Delicious buffet prepared by The LadyBug Kitchen – Beef Tenderloin Kebabs, Chicken Cacciatore, Stuffed Pork Tenderloin. Bonfire on the beach with the live band

H

ave you made your New Year’s Eve party plans yet? There is a lot going on around the bay. The fireworks show around Banderas Bay is absolutely amazing! So be sure to find a good view! Here are a few suggestions for New Year’s Eve dinner and live entertainment on the north end of the bay in Bucerias and La Cruz. Please

look at the allBucerias.com calendar and the allLaCruz.com calendar for the full menus of delicious appetizers, entrees and desserts with pricing and contact information.

Bucerias New Year’s Eve Fun:

Los Arroyos Verdes: Delicious Short Ribs, Mahi Mahi al pastor, champagne. Classical music

“3 To Rock”. At Midnight watch fabulous fireworks with a glass of bubbly!

Luna Lounge: New Year's Eve party "Decades" begins at 9 pm with dance music from the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s. At Midnight an Aztec High Priest will bless the room and all there, thanking the universe for the past year. He will then burn the sacred herb Coppal as everyone writes their desires for 2015. Before midnight, each person will move forward to the High Priest and burn their paper with the Coppal. They will then have a Spiritual Cleansing or "Smudging" to rid them of any negative energy that we may be carrying over so that we can begin the New Year clean and free. We will then ring in the New Year and party the night away!

Yippee!

Black Forest Restaurant: Carpaccio of Salmon marinated in Tequila and Chipotle, Pork Chops Esterházy covered with Cognac Cream Sauce.

Las Palapas Grill: Grilled Blue Shrimp, Surf and Turf and Filet Mignon are on the menu.

Party on the playa with a bon fire and the “What’s Up Band” beginning at 9pm and fireworks at midnight on the bay.

Masala Bar & Grill: Stuffed tuna roll, Beet Salad, Pan seared scallops, or grilled rack of lamb with the wonderful music of the Mango Duo with Alberto and Zoe.

Gloria’s Place is Open!

Gloria’s Place is a fun new clothing shop in La Cruz right across the street from Philo’s Bar. She offers 100% cotton gauze clothing in sizes from extra small to 3X. Gloria has a lovely selection of clothing and very nice men's shirts in blue, natural, khaki & black. Stop by to check out the super holiday special- fun jewelry Gloria has crafted herself.

Go and have a look, meet Gloria and enjoy a holiday cookie. She is open 12-4 daily, and closed on Sundays. Grab a last minute gift or Gift Certificate. Gloria plans in being open all year around! YEA! El Asadero, a new restaurant in La Cruz is owned and operated by a local family. Damian and his wife Sophie have lived here for over 10 years together, raising their 2 beautiful children. They are located at the round-a-bout.

For something new and fun, try the Taco Tuesdays with specials.

Shrimp and fish tacos cooked perfectly in their state of the art fryer, and all the other tasty tacos like tacos de Pastor with homemade tortillas!

Every Sunday come in for all you can eat (arrachera, chicken, chorizo) quesadillas y frijoles, and Mariachi Música y Margaritas. They also have a one liter beer special every day.

They show the National Football League games on their big screens. Topping it off El Asadero has Banda with DJ Erick and other late night fun DJ’s. The architecture in the restaurant is beautiful with a comfortable and nice atmosphere. Go in and say hello and see for yourself!

Thanks for tuning in! Please feel free to contact me for information regarding amazing tours, fishing boats and rentals at Cat@ RivieraNayaritFun.com

Vallarta-Nayarit: Holiday TRAVEL AND SHOPPING GUIDE The only complete guide for Vallarta´s best galleries, boutiques, spas, restaurants and more. vallartashoppingdirectory.blogspot.mx

H

ere in Puerto Vallarta and the Bay of Banderas you will find the most variety of dining, shopping, entertainment and fun of any tropical destination. Click on the website vallartashoppingdirectory.blogspot. com and you will find the most unique shopping and dining experiences with photos of the various restaurants and shops, links to their websites and Facebook, contact information and write ups about their products and services.

The Insiders

By Larissa Magee

A

lthough the downtown and hotel zone of Puerto Vallarta have some fabulous beaches, sometimes its fun to step out of your comfort zone and explore some out of the way places. With that in mind,

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

we complied a list of fabulous beaches that are well worth the day trip.

Best Beach for Snorkeling – Playa Majahuitas There are a number of beaches in the Bay of Banderas that vie for the distinction of “Best Snorkeling” due to the incredible number of rock formations all along the shores. However our favourite has to be Playa Majahuitas located on the south shore between the small villages of Quimixto and Yelapa. This beach is secluded and hard to get to but it’s worth the effort due to the plethora of sea life that make their home around the underwater boulders.

Here you’ll find puffer fish, spotted eagle rays, garden eels, octopi and nudibranchs. To get to Playa Majahuitas take the water taxi from Boca de Tomatlan, a small fishing village 20 minutes south of Puerto Vallarta. We recommend going in the afternoon to avoid the large tour companies that visit this tranquil spot most mornings.

Best Beach for Fresh Seafood and Margaritas – Playa Las Animas Just before Playa Majahuitas on the south shore lies our choice for the best beach to go to for the freshest seafood and coldest margaritas in the bay, Playa Las Animas. This golden sand beach is lined with 5 or 6 beachfront, thatched roofed restaurants to choose from. We recommend

Time to Take a Day Trip – Outside of Puerto Vallart ordering the local specialty of Huachinango Zarandeado, which is whole red snapper rubbed with spices and cooked over a wood grill. Delicious!

Best Beach for a Romantic Walk -- Playa Destilederas (aka Nahui) Our choice for “Most Romantic Beach” is Playa Destilederas, located about 45 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta along the highway to Punta de Mita. This long, flat, white sand beach is perfect for strolling hand in hand with your loved one as you watch the sun set behind Las Marietas Islands.

To walk from one end of the beach and back takes about 50 minutes but we like to stop at the stylish beach club of Los Veneros for a mid way cocktail to enjoy the full experience.

preserve of the Islas Marietas and is best reached by taking one of the many small panga charters available from the marina in Punta de Mita. The trip over takes about 20 minutes and along the way you

Best Beach for Boogie Boarding -- Playa Punta de Mita Most visitors to Punta de Mita head to popular Playa El Anclote, which is located in front of the main street and lined with seafood restaurants. However our favourite is the lesser known Playa Punta de Mita that is located south of the small marina and is the perfect spot for playing in the gentle waves. Take the stairs across from Hotel La Quinta del Sol and spend the day enjoying the surf rolling in along this perfect white sand beach.

Playa Majah

Best Beach for Wildlife– Playa Escondida (Las Marietas Islands)

2

Playa Escondida, or the Hidden Beach, is located on the nature

Punta de Mita

– The Best Beaches ta Playa Destiladeras

are likely to see dolphins, jumping sting rays, pelicans and, during the months of December to April, humpback whales. The islands are uninhabited and home to over 90 species of birds, including the

famous blue-footed booby. To reach the beach, one must swim under an archway in the island past an amazing snorkeling spot filled with a variety of fish and marine life.

Playa Las Animas

Best Beach for People Watching – Playa Sayulita Located about an hour north of Puerto Vallarta along the Riviera Nayarit, you will find the once sleepy fishing village of Sayulita that has grown into a bustling and funky surf town.

This is our favourite beach to grab a sun chair from any of the number of restaurants spread out in front of the main section of town and settle in for a day of great people watching.

You’ll see surfers catching some incredible waves, mariachi bands looking to play you a tune, and lots of unique characters just doing their thing.

This isn’t the beach for those who are searching for peace and solitude but is perfect for those who are looking for pure entertainment.

MEN AND WOMEN’S JEWELRY AND ACCESORIES. CASSANDRA SHAW JEWELRY 223 9734 BASILIO BADILLO 276 OLD TOWN OPEN DAILY 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

photo credit - Mattock Imagery

huitas

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Friday Dec 26, 2014, Jan 1st, 2015

Live from the Red Room

By Marcia Blondin marciavallarta@gmail.com

A

huge thank you goes out to all those who attended the “Art of the Recorder” last week. It made my heart glad to see the response to Telemann, Baroque maestro, et al, and the delightful trio of recorder-ists (?) – Isabella Pagel, Sharon Baughman-White and Daniel Oliveros. And to end the concert with a few sing-along Christmas carols was simply lovely. Let’s see and hear MORE! Get to closing night of Helen Hong on the 26th. In EVERY press release and review she is described in a single word: adorable.

And that’s because she is. First generation Korean American, she wandered the streets of Old Town Vallarta finding extra material to add to hilarious stories of her Old-World Asian immigrant parents and more.

Her rapport with her audience is immediate and warm and very funny indeed. She suits the intimacy of the Red Room – fresh and little and I am not going to say adorable, but hope she comes back very soon.

Now Cashetta. I always take notes during a show. Single words, sometimes a sentence that prod a memory so I can write a review a week later. My notebook says: CASHETTA !!

That’s it. Here come the superlatives (not in any order…): BRILLIANT psychic (no, that one is first!), beautiful in drag, beautiful as Scott, sweet, caring, talented singer, dancer. I had the pleasure of meeting Scott before and after his show on Opening Night. Magic fascinates everyone, of course; why it’s called magic, but I STILL have to remind myself that I saw what I saw and heard what I heard.

When was the last time a “magic act” gave you shivers?

Kim Kuzma was there on Cashetta’s opening night and kept rubbing her arms and murmuring about said shivers. I can’t tell you a thing about the show because it would spoil what is a truly amazing, AMAZING gift of magic.

Cashetta will keep you laughing and spellbound – a trick in itself – until January 2nd.

Michael Walters is returning to Vallarta this Saturday the 27th and bringing Ms. Dame Edna with him. If you are an aficionado you will know to wear appropriate mauve wig and fabulous rhinestone cat’s-eye glasses to her opening and subsequent nights.

A full report next week, Possums!

CASHETTA

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Marsol Market Special after Christmas E Located at Hotel Marsol in front of the Los Muertos Pier

T

he second Marsol Market by the Pier was a huge success last Friday with a surge of locals and visitors enjoying the great selection of offerings by the 50 plus vendors in the huge lobby of the Marsol Hotel. This market is another project of the Vallarta Shopping Directory and a number of our member businesses are participating, such as Faith Collectiva with their malas and hand crafted jewelry, Watakame showing unique alebrijes and Huichol art, River Café Jewelry with unique silver creations by some of Mexico´s top designers, Serendipity with handcrafts you won`t find anywhere else, Tapetes de Lana with their special Oaxaca wool rugs, Majolica Antica with Talavera pottery, Bumerang Consignment Shop with gently used clothing and accessories,and Galeria Vallarta with hand painted one of a kind tops, jewelry and Marta Gilbert prints and giclees. The goal of the Vallarta Shopping Directory is to help local businesses be found and visited by our tourists and

local residents and this new market will help achieve that aim.

The Marsol market offers a great selection of delicious foods to eat there or take home such as Italian food, Argentine delicacies, Mexican cuisine, tacos, empanadas, smoked ham, chicken breast, smoked marlin, beef jerky, cheese and cheese spreads, hummus, dill pickles, pickled beets, fresh pasta and paninis, several types of home made bread, pizza, coffee and fruit drinks. There will be music and a festive ambience, so please come and top up your holiday shopping with the Marsol Market by the Pier, Hotel Marsol, Francisca Rodriguez 103, on the closed street leading to the Los Muertos Pier every Friday From 9:30 to 2 p.m.

Happy Holidays!

PUERTO VALLARTA’S #1 SELLING CABARET SHOW OF 2014!

Top off your holiday with Kim Kuzma’s Acoustico show at The Red Room Cabaret.

DAME EDNA FINDS HER VOICE DEC 27 - FEB 14: TUES & SAT AT 9:30 PM WED & FRI AT 7:30 PM When Michael Walters set out to pay homage to Dame Edna in a fully-staged show, he wanted to leave the audience with a bit of his own magic in addition to Edna’s trademark “caring and sharing.” As a seasoned musical comedy actor, Michael knew he wanted THIS Edna to sing. To do this, a slight addition to Dame Edna’s life story was needed. In his research, Walters discovered that Dame Edna had a fourth child who was kidnapped from her cradle by a feral koala. In his show, Walters uses this as a jumping-off point … and Dame Edna can now share her musical gifts with the adoring public in Walters’ shows which feature several thrilling Broadway numbers.

ARNALDO! THE DRAG CHANTEUSE ACCOMPANIED BY BOB BRUNEAU

DEC 27TH AND 29TH AT 7:30PM DEC 28TH AT 9:30PM Opening the hearts and minds through music… one cabaret at a time.

Arnaldo! started as a soloist with the Seattle Men’s Chorus and has since performed in major concert halls in the US, Europe, New Zealand and Australia. Through the years Arnaldo has accomplished much including; started a group called Cabaret Q where “drag chanteuse” began; completed the Cabaret Summer Conference Workshop at Yale; started the Pacific Northwest Cabaret Association; continues to organize “March is Cabaret Month” featuring local and visiting artists. 2007 marked Arnaldo!’s New York cabaret debut and in 2008, Arnaldo is honored with a New York Backstage Bistro Award.

CASHETTA DECEMBER 26TH, 29TH, JANUARY 1ST AND 2ND AT 9:30 PM Cashetta has delighted audiences for over 18 years with her outrageous wit, charm and crossover appeal and remains one of America’s most beloved, unique and sought after female impersonators.

As a Singer, Comic, Emcee, Magician and Fabulous Psychic Medium, Cashetta is a one of a kind entertainer that is not to be missed!

KIM KUZMA

ACOUSTICO - SUN AT 7:30 PM WEDNESDAY NIGHT FEVER - WED AT 9:30 PM Kim Kuzma and her live acoustic band is a Sunday evening tradition in Vallarta.

Join Kim for Wednesday Night Fever for a high energy disco show.

The Red Room Cabaret @ ACT II Stages Insurgentes #300 Basilio Badillo and Insurgentes Act II Stages (322) 222-1512 www.facebook.com/Theredroomcabaret

ELVIS FOREVER S IS M ’T M DON AYS AT 4P WEDNESD

events 19

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Enthusiastic crowds extend shows at The Palm Cabaret

Event

V

allarta has fallen in love with the colorful characters in the hit comedy stage production of ‘Greater Tuna’, and with the earthy sounds of Latcho & Andrea - The Blond Gypsies and their Spanish Guitars. Added dates will now extend both shows well into the new year. ‘Greater Tuna’ - With twenty characters (played by just two actors) and forty-two costume changes, Tracy Parks and Chaz Weathers, who star in the play, have had their work cut out for them in this labor of love. “It has been a dream of ours for many years to play these characters, and we are thrilled that so many people are enjoying it just as much as we are!” said Tracy Parks, who plays Aunt Pearl, along with a host of others in the production.

‘Greater Tuna’ is a big comedy about a small town, small minds and big hearts.

Set in the fictional, yet typical small town of Tuna, Texas, ‘where the Lions Club is too liberal and Patsy Cline never dies’, Tuna is

A comedy classic with a gender-bending twist

W

hat happens when a neat freak and a slob become unlikely roommates? Popular playwright Neil Simon made comedy history with “The Odd Couple” in 1965, readapting the script 20 years later with “The Odd Couple: Female Version.”

And now this gender-bending iconic comedy classic is about to make its Puerto Vallarta debut at the Boutique Theatre dinner theatre, just above the Nacho Daddy restaurant at 287 Basilio Badillo. The show will run January 2nd through January 10th.

The Odd Couple: Female Version is directed by Catherine Beeghly. After acting with many versatile actresses in Puerto Vallarta last season, Catherine knows this show will be a hit here.

“I knew I’d have plenty of talented women performers to choose from,” Beeghly said.

“The Female Version also features two neighbors in the New York apartment building—Spanish brothers struggling with the English language, as well us unrequited loves. I also knew there were plenty of men running around Puerto Vallarta, who could do Spanish accents, that I could cast.”

The show stars Catalina Meders as “Olive Madison,” the easy-going, messy newswoman. Her uptight, phobic counterpart, “Florence Unger,” is played by Holly Wright.

Joan Houston is playing Renee, whose relationship dating a gynecologist is on the rocks. Alice Averett plays Vera, who’s always just a little slow on the uptake. Josie MacGillivray plays the cynical, chain-smoking Sylvie. And Lynne Dellinger plays Mickey,

Friday Dec 26, 2014, Jan 1st, 2015

the female cop who’s always trying to direct the action.

Robert Grant plays Manolo Costazuela, and David Guilmette is his brother, Jesus.

Guilmette directs the Boutique’s Asylum Improv Comedy Troupe. Beeghly acted last season in PV in “Steel Magnolias” at Act II Entertainment, and in “Calendar Girls” at the Boutique Theater. That’s where she worked alongside two actresses she cast in “The Odd Couple,” Averett and Meders.

Here in Vallarta, you can catch one or more of only eight hilarious performances of The Odd Couple: Female Version at the Boutique Theatre. They offer a dinner and show package featuring a 6:00 pm 3-course dinner with your choice of entree (Filet Mignon/Chicken Breast/Vegetarian) and a 7:00 pm showtime on January 2, 3, 5, 6, 8, 9, and 10, with a later 9:00 pm show only on January 7.

To purchase tickets for The Odd Couple: Female Version, visit the Boutique box office at 287 Basilio Badillo on the south side, or go to www.VallartaTickets.com.

rife with a wide-range of colorful characters and storylines. Written by Joe Sears, Jaston Williams and Ed Howard, the original production ran for more than 30 years all over the world and played two command performances for US Presidents in Washington, D.C. Due to its overwhelming popularity, ‘Greater Tuna’ is now playing through January 20th.

Latcho & Andrea - The Blond Gypsies have also enjoyed widespread popularity at The Palm, having appeared recently in three very successful shows. Latcho & Andrea are European recording artists who perform Gypsy Rumba and Flamenco Guitar music.

Both of German descent, their music takes influences from around the world and back through time, authentically producing the mysterious and passionate sounds of Gypsy Flamenco music. Due to overwhelming demand, additional dates have been scheduled throughout January and February.

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CHARITY 20

Friday Dec 26, 2014, Jan 1st, 2015

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 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 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 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 Esperanza- Shelter for Children. Tax-deductible. ccshf.ca Roma’s Kids - Educate the children of the Volcanes and surrounding area: Math, English and computer programs a priority. 100% goes to the kids. kids.romamexico.com The International Friendship Club (IFC) - Supports the Cleft Palate Surgery Program & families in need. 322-222-5466. ifcvallarta.com Toys for Tots Vallarta - Distributes toys and constructs playgrounds for Puerto Vallarta area during the Christmas holiday period. Jerry Lafferty 322 221 6156 or lourdes.bizarro@marriotthotels.com.

Vallarta Saludable (Healthy) – Healthy living through organics, stevias, cooking workshops, serums reversing dialysis and reality show. NAOTF.org Suzy Chaffee suzynativevoices@aol.com

Charity in Vallarta

By Frank K. Meyer

Puerto Vallarta Salvation Army

T

he Puerto Vallarta Salvation Army is located in Mojoneras (a needy suburb of Puerto Vallarta) and is a part of the Salvation Army International.

Many programs and services are currently in operation, including: • Daily feeding of about 60 children • Assistance to families • Educational classes for the children, ie: Computer, English classes, medical assistance, clothing, Sunday Church Services,

arts and crafts and more.... Any contributions of clothing, food, school supplies, and of course monetary assistance is a continual need. Volunteers are needed everyday. The Salvation Army, an international movement, is a part of the Universal Christian Church.

Our message is based on the bible. Our ministry is motivated by love for God. Our mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

EVENTS 21

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Let the Fireworks begin!

Continuing through New Year’s Eve, the first International Fireworks Festival in Puerto Vallarta will highlight many cultural events, concerts and opportunities for locals and visitors alike to join in the holiday festivities in town. Each night starting at 9:30pm the skies above the bay will be alit with fireworks displays from one of the five participating countries: Canada, Mexico, USA, Italy and Spain. The show will last about 20 minutes and will be the kick-off for the nightly show held at the municipal stadium each night at 10pm. With three launch locations the spectacle will be viewable from across the bay and most of the performances will be held at the Municipal Stadium, Teatro Los Arcos and Park Hidalgo.

December 27 Lila Downs 10:00pm Municipal Stadium December 28 Pancho Madrigal 6:00pm Municipal Stadium El Forito 6:00pm Teatro Los Arcos Los hijos del Sol 6:30pm Municipal Stadium Orquesta Sinfónica de la Marina 7:30pm Municipal Stadium Plástiko 8:30pm Municipal Stadium Santiago Cumplido 8:30pm Municipal Stadium Castillo 9:30 MunicipalStadium

La Cuca 10pm Municipal Stadium December 29 Orquesta Ti 6:30pm Municipal Stadium Municipio de Talpa 7:30pm Municipal Stadium NOVUS AER 8:30pm Municipal Stadium Los 3 Zenzontles 10pm Municipal Stadium El Forito 6pm Teatro Los Arcos December 30 Malvolia 6:30pm Municipal Stadium Galgo 7:30pm Municipal Stadium National Theater Company 8:30pm Municipal Stadium.

Castillo 9:30pm Municipal Stadium Azul Violeta 10pm Municipal Stadium December 31 Ballet Folkrórico de Tomatlán 7:30pm Municipal Stadium Mariachi Tipico de Tecolotlán 8:30pm Municipal Stadium Sonora Dinamita 10pm Municipal Stadium

Friday Dec 26, 2014, Jan 1st, 2015

Events

December 20-28th 9th annual Sinegiarte Festival "Por Todas Mis Relaciones" (For All My Relations), the event celebrates the fusion of art and culture in San Francisco, also known as "San Pancho" and the Cultural Capital of the Riviera Nayarit. colectivosanpancho.tumblr.com December 26 – 31st, 2014 International Fireworks Festival This 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. See this week’s edition for a list of events and times.

Saturday, January 10th Second Annual Becas Classic Golf Tournament A fun and unique golf tournament of Modified Stableford at the Marina Golf Course. Call Barrie Page at 322-1102666 (cell) or Alex Whiteside at 322-117-3870 (cell) or Carlos Fregoso at 221-0789 for information and reservations. $800/$1400(non-members) January 14 - 18th Second Annual Festival Sayulita - a five-day culture and food fest in the chilled-out coastal town of Sayulita.

Tickets and packages start at $1,250 pesos - visit FestivalSayulita.com

Wednesday, January 21st Becas Breakfast at Daiquiri Dick's at 9:30am $150 pesos must be purchased in advance.Lots of raffle and Silent Auction prizes. Your participation insures that bright young Vallarta girls and boys have a chance to get the educations they want and deserve.

For tickets to upcoming Becas events call Polly Vicars, at 223-1371.

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

Thursday, January 29, 2015 XV ART AUCTION in support of Los Mangos Library Local and international artists auction off unique pieces of art and donate a minimum of 50% towards the library fundraising efforts. Los Mangos is funded solely by donations.

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

ROMANTIC ZONE / OLAS ALTAS

Galeria June Rosen Lopez

O

ne block up from the pier at Los Muertos Beach, Galeria June Rosen Lopez is located at Francisca Rodriquez #200, on the same street as Archies Wok, continue up the hill until you reach the corner of Francisca Rodriquez y Pino Suarez. Here you will find June’s charming gallery located in her home on the bottom floor.

June has been creating one of a kind jewellery since 1973.

She studied both in New York City and Taxco, Guerrero, Mexico’s silver capital. June’s world travels are reflected in her unique designs, often inspired from the beautiful gems that she collects along the way and the aesthetic of the places that she visits.

All this adds up to a collection of jewellery known for its unsurpassed craftsmanship , delightful

originality and reasonable prices.

June carries work of other artists as well. If you are looking for that special something, look no further than Galeria June Rosen Lopez. From December through April, Junes hours are 12 to 6, but best to call ahead to check with her first.

Why not make a visit to the gallery an event and combine it

with dinner plans?

Galeria June Rosen Lopez is located at Francisca Rodriquez #200, in old town.

Mexico gallery number:322 2225049 Mexico cell : 322 779 6491 U.S line:1 646 291 6852 U.S cell:646 3387373(ideal to call from u.s cell phones) Email:junesjewel74@hotmail.com

FRANKIES Newly opened, Frankie’s is fast becoming the new favorite Italian restaurants. They sell delicious, thin crust pizza. They also have incredible artisan pastas and salads. Their Italian chef, who definitely knows his way around the kitchen and their Italian owner guarantee you are eating an authentic Italian Mangiare. Prices are low to moderate. Try their Italian wines; the list is small but carefully selected.

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

Friday Dec 26, 2014, Jan 1st, 2015

BRAIN TEASERS 22

SUDOKU medium easy

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

Number Blocks

hard

Word Search

What’s a number block you ask?

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

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

1. Green - Moola - Dough 2. Playing - Time - Greeting 3. Punch - Hair - A Volleyball 4. High - Balance - Laser 5. Human - Rat - Relay 6. Cat - Dog - Gold 7. Toad - Foot - Bar 8. French - Eskimo - Hershey 9. Area - Fire - Zip 10. Gray - Red – Timber

Commonym 12 Answers 1. slang for money 2. types of cards 3. they can be spiked 4. beams 5. races 6. fish 7. stools 8. kisses 9. codes 10. wolves

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

Wuzzle 12 Answers 1. Better safe than sorry 2. Wheel of Fortune 3. Hard times ahead 4. Black eyed peas 5. Jumbo Jet 6. Minimize

Commonym

Wuzzles

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

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Friday Dec 26, 2014, Jan 1st, 2015

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

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Emergency Phone for Sayulita

ADVERTISE HERE!

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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