Issue 930, Jan 29 - 04 Feb, 2015 by Vallarta Tribune

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Entertainment Equus in Vallarta

Jan 29 - Feb 4, 2015 Free Issue 930

Shopping & Events events calendar

Retirement seniors discount

By Bud Ellison

Riding the bull Charro Competition 2014

welcome

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. MONEY EXCHANGE: Although you may have to wait in line for a few minutes, banks will give you a higher rate of exchange than the exchange booths (caja de cambio). You will need your passport. Better yet, use your bank card to withdraw funds from any ATM machine. Note that ATM’s in the banks are the safest to use and generally charge lower fees. DRINKING WATER: For the year 18 in a row, Puerto Vallarta’s water has been awarded a certification of purity for human consumption. The quality of the water tested at the purification plant varies greatly from what comes out of the tap at the other end. So do be careful. If you want to be doubly sure, you can pick up bottled water just about anywhere. EXPORTING PETS: Falling love with the street dog outside your hotel or a puppy on the Malecon doesn’t mean they can’t come home with you. The process is fairly inexpensive and only takes a day or two. You need a certificate of health from a local vet among other things. The time of year that pets can travel in the cargo section of the plane may be your biggest challenge. For the most up-to-date information contact the Puerto Vallarta SPCA at spcapv@gmail.com. COMMON SENSE: Just as you wouldn’t walk around your hometown drunk and beligerent, it is not acceptable to do that here. While Mexicans are a forgiving bunch, basic politeness is appreciated. For the guys, peeing in public is a major faux pas and if you are caught, can get you tossed in jail or an expensive fine. Pay attention to your surroundings. Pay your bills. Be courteous. And have fun! DRINKING AND DRIVING: First off – just don’t. The consequences are not worth it. Taxis are cheap and plentiful. Fines are as much as 10,000 pesos. You can be taken to jail and your vehicle impounded. There are many checkstops on the weekends and you will be asked to blow if they suspect you have been drinking. LEGAL SYSTEM: Not knowing the law is not an valid excuse in Mexico or anywhere. If you find yourself caught in a legal situation be aware that guilt is presumed until your innocence can be proven. This is a very difficult lesson to learn if you are visiting from the United States or Canada in particular. Immediately contact your consulate for assistance.

Director Noemi Zamora noemizamorareynoso@gmail.com Editor Lic. Madeline Milne mmilne@Vallartatribune.com Sales Team Rebeca Castellón Rebeca.castellonn@gmail.com Information office ventastribuna7@yahoo.com Designer Cynthia E. Andrade G. cysandra@gmail.com cisandra@vallartatribune.com

Jan 29- Feb 4, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

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

Tianguis and Farmer´s Markets All 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 Tianguis - Year-round Sundays In the arroyo La Cruz Sunday Mercado Sundays At the La Cruz Marina Bucerias Market - Monday Artwalk Plaza Guayabitos – Mondays year-round In the main plaza Nuevo Vallarta Farmers Market –Tuesdays San Pancho Market / Tuesday in Main Plaza

La Cruz Tianguis Year-round Wednesday Below the glorietta La Penita Tianguis – Thursday year-round In the main plaza Marina Vallarta Market – Thursdays In the main plaza Marsol Market to the pier - Friday Sayulita’s Farmer’s Market - downtown Friday Tres gallinas y un gallo - Saturdays 466 Venustiano Carranza Old Town Farmers Market – Saturdays Lazaro Cardenas Park Lo de Marcos Tianguis – Saturdays In the main plaza

Important Numbers Emergency phone numbers. The police station or the fire department is 060. For Non-Emergency calls, dial (322) 290-0507 for the Pol & (322) 224-7701 for the Fire Department (322)223 9476. Ambulance Services Red Cross Ambulance: 222-1533 / (065) 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

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. 226-0800 editor@vallartatribune.com * www.vallartatribune.com * www.facebook.com/vallarta.tribune

editorial

Editor’s

Note

editor@vallartatribune.com

his past week I spent in central Texas visiting family and partaking in the forgotten joys of Americana; mostly food related but also giant shopping malls and so many commercials on television. I have eaten and shopped my way through Texas and am crafting this missive from the bus station in Guadalajara while I wait for the awesomeness that is the 4:30 ETN bus. If you haven't you should take some time to travel by bus in this country.

There are different classes but the first class bus is akin to my snuggling into my dad's lazy boy and watching movies. It's a smooth ride with hardwood flooring, movies and wifi. All you'd need is a fireplace and a cup of cocoa. So my editorial this week is just a quick note to say hello. It would figure that the week I work from afar is the same week we have a million announcements, articles and ads (thank you everyone!!) so I apologize if things aren't quite perfect. I proofed the paper this week on my iPhone which made me car sick. So if I missed a couple of commas or funny paragraph breaks, forgive me. As you read the paper this week please note the myriad of events going on. It's what so many of us wait for year round and then it's here and gone again so quickly. Get out and support local businesses and the many live acts around town so that they're here again next year. Thank you for your ongoing support of the Tribune. You're great! And if I cared about these things I'd say... Go Seahawks!

What’s More Magic

Than Music?

he Puerto Vallarta Men's Chorus Valentine's gift to their audiences: Magia del Amor! This Magical Love Concert is being performed on February 8, 10 and 14 at ACT II Stages under the skilled leadership of Alfonso Lopez, the new Artistic Director of PVMC, whose debut concert Higher and Higher won acclaim in local media last December. Hearts and souls will drift into dreams of brotherhood and LOVE as you sway in your seat, smile and gently squeeze your partner's knee while enveloped in songs of puppy love, new love, and magical love. ACT II Stages will host a "meet and greet" in the Encore Wine and Piano Bar after the concerts serving light appetizers to enjoy with your drinks. The most elegant will be on ‘The Day’, February 14 with bubbly and chocolates! Tickets are available at ACT II Stages Box Office, entrance on Basilio Badillo, corner of Ignacio Vallarta in the Romantic Zone, telephone 322-222-1512, for these 8 PM performances.

Jan 29- Feb 4, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

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. Our special volunteer of the week is Bonnie Cretzman, one of our terrific foster moms in Alberta. Whenever she comes to town for a visit she brings down donations she has gathered during the year, spends much of her time at our sanctuary and has been a regular “Angel” assisting in transporting our rescues to Canada. 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. You 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. We have also 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.

community. Don’t forget our next event is on Sunday, February 8th. The “Sicilian Soirée” is a fundraiser for the San Juan Diego Seniors’ Home, taking place at the restaurant Sapori di Sicilia located in Plaza Romy (Ignacio L. Vallarta #228 in the Zona Romantica).

Choose from two seatings: 6:00pm or 8:00pm. Come savor our Sicilian 4-course dinner with live music by Bohemia Viva, and all for a great cause. We look forward to seeing you there. Edgar and Warren from Stratos Media

SPCA of Puerto Vallarta

alentine’s Day is just around the corner, and you can share your love for our four-legged pals by joining us for “High Tea at High Noon” on Saturday, February 14, 2015 benefiting the SPCA de Puerto Vallarta sanctuary. (www.facebook.com/spcapv). Last year’s event was so successful and well attended. Set in one of Vallarta’s most romantic locations, Puerta del Cielo--the chapel across from Hacienda San Angel (www.haciendasanangel. com), we will be dining on traditional English tea and scrumptious finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and desserts catered by the fantastic Kathy Overly. Everything was absolutely delicious last year. But that’s not all! We are so excited to announce that the lovely Laura Labra Lopez will be showing her timeless original designs during a brief fashion show. Complimentary jewelry will be provided by Cassandra Shaw. We are sure everyone will enjoy the gorgeous designs from both Laura and Cassandra. Festivities will be from Noon until 3 pm. Tickets are $650 pesos per person, and tables of nine can be reserved. Tickets sell out fast, so be sure to contact spcapv@gmail.com to make your reservations today. Looking forward to a TeaROOFic Valentine’s Day with you! 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 at the Old Town Farmers Market and we will answer any questions you might have. Get involved…rescue, adopt, foster, volunteer, donate or educate. Contact

Letter to editor Dear Editor, This is a time to thank all of our friends, sponsors and advertisers for helping to make each of our events uniquely successful. We look forward to your continued participation and support as we continue to grow and serve our

entertainment

Jan 29- Feb 4, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

JOELLE RABU Performs 'Piaf....and Much More' By Deb J oelle Rabu brings her extraordinary song interpretations of famed French singer, Edith Piaf, to The Red Room, Act II Entertainment, in early February. Edith Piaf (1915-1963), was a famous French cabaret singer who became widely regarded as one of France's greatest international stars. Her music was often autobiographical with her singing reflecting her life with ballads of love, loss and sorrow. For over 30 years, Joelle Rabu has been writing and performing musicals about the life and music of Edith Piaf. Joëlle believes there was only one Piaf and considers it a privilege to perform her songs and to be accepted by the public who knew Edith. Joëlle Rabu, herself, reflects Canada. Her childhood in Winnipeg and Vancouver Island, her Breton parents and her travels around the world have made her feel the cultural diversity of Canada. Joëlle was brought up 'à la française' (in the French way), with a lust for life and 'joie de vivre'(with an

enjoyment of life) that can only be understood by living it. She has traveled throughout five continents and speaks several languages. The songs of Piaf were engraved in her heart at a very early age and the stories from Joëlle's gypsy-like parents only enhanced her curiosity of that very special era. Joelle began her singing career in 1983 with a musical about the life of Edith Piaf. Having performed her first show over 500 times, she met national success, winning the Jessie Award twice. In 1985, Joelle toured with a bilingual show 'Joelle Rabu in Concert'. She toured China, England, Eastern Europe, Canada, Africa and the United States with the show. Beginning in 1989, she performed, 'Tonight...Piaf,' a bilingual musical drama written by Ted Galay and herself that recreates Edith Piaf’s final New York concert at the Waldorf Astoria in 1961. In 1994, with the composer and musician J. Douglas Dodd, she presented 'Symphony in Sound and Light: Reflections of Canada,' which told stories in the form of

letters, diaries and conversations about fictitious Canadians. For over 5 years, viewers on Parliament Hill in Ottawa heard the voice of Joelle Rabu, accompanied by the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra and a choir of 120 voices. It's been a few years, but many will remember Joelle and her son Nico, who accompanies her on piano, performing in Puerto Vallarta. Joelle's award winning portrayal of the legendary French songbird will captivate, delight and entertain you. The critics have hailed her as being Piaf in voice and style. With only a few shows scheduled in Puerto Vallarta, buy your tickets now. Tickets are available at vallartatickets.com or at the Act II Entertainment box office.

Whatever your age or musical preferences, you'll find that the songs of Edith Piaf will remain engraved in your soul . Piaf's story is one that yearns to be told time and time again, for it is a story of embracing life without fear. Joelle Rabu tells the story superbly.

RELIVE EDITH PIAF’S FINAL NEW YORK CONCERT WITH JOELLE RABU AT THE RED ROOM

EQUUS

in Vallarta by Marcia Blondin

n 1973, the stage play, EQUUS, opened in London; one year later on Broadway. Forty plus years have passed and next week EQUUS opens on the Main Stage at Act II Entertainment. February 4, 2015, will be remembered as the date live English-language theatre changed forever in Puerto Vallarta. There will be no singing, although there will be a chorus. There will be no dancing, although ‘rhythmic movement’ is a key essential to the plot. There will be no elaborate revolving set rather stark simplicity, lighting and the audience’s imagination will be put to work to bring Sir Peter Shaffer’s award-winning play to life under the direction of Alain Perrault. The play, based on a horrific event in the early Seventies in England, piqued the interest of

dramatist Peter Shaffer. It has won numerous awards worldwide and cast members have included Anthony Hopkins, Richard Burton, Leonard Nimoy, Anthony Perkins and Tom Hulce.(Tom Hulce debuted as Alan Strang on Broadway and later played the lead in AMADEUS, also written by Peter Shaffer.) Puerto Vallarta’s cast members include award-winning Mexican and ex-patriate actors that will leave you breathless in this timeless drama about passion and madness, misguided love and torn innocence. Broadway had 1200 performances of EQUUS; Vallarta has but 12. Join me opening night, February 4, 2015, at 8 pm, on the Main Stage at Act II Entertainment and be a part of this renaissance of Live Theatre in Puerto Vallarta.

JOELLE RABU as EDITH PIAF

FEBRUARY 3, 5 AT 7:30 PM Tonight…Piaf, a highly acclaimed hit show written by Joëlle Rabu and Ted Galay, is an intimate musical drama, re-creating Edith Piaf’s final New York concert at the Waldorf Astoria in 1961.

DAME EDNA FINDS HER VOICE WED AND FRI AT 7:30PM AND SAT AT 9:30 Only 8 shows left! thru February 14th Renowned vocalist and actor Michael L. Walters takes the stage by storm in a critically acclaimed full-scale homage to Dame Edna’s fabulous Broadway shows! SHARRON MATTHEWS SIDE ONE JAN 29 - 7:30PM SIDE TWO JAN 30- 9:30 PM Only 2 dates left! “She proved once again that she may be the most exciting thing to have happened in cabaret since Bette Midler at the Continental Baths.” — NiteLifeExchange/NYC MISS CONCEPTION

MON AND WED AT 9:30PM AND MON AT 7:30PM The Wonderful World of Miss Conception is an all live singing show with your favorite story book characters with a twist. This international female Delusionist is ready to take the world by storm or take their heels.

EVERY WEEK YOUR FAVOURITES RETURN!

VALLARTA’S FAVOURITE - KIM KUZMA

ACOUSTICO - SUN AT 7:30 PM , TUES AT 9:30 WEDNESDAY NIGHT FEVER - WED AT 9:30 PM Having performed across Canada, Europe and the USA, you can now see her perform LIVE in Puerto Vallarta in an intimate, acoustic setting at Act II Stages in the Red Room Covering some of her songs from all her CDs.

ROB KNIGHT - FOREVER ELVIS

WEDNESDAYS AT 4:00 PM Rob Knight is a Pacific Northwest Award Winning Internationa:30l Elvis Tribute Artist. Rob’s performance provides an opportunity to travel back in time to enjoy the music from Elvis’ career.

The Red Room Cabaret @ ACT II Stages SO Insurgentes #300 Basilio Badillo and Insurgentes A NOW AL M Z U K IM K Act II Stages (322) 222-1512 AT 9.30PM TUESDAYS www.facebook.com/Theredroomcabaret

Equus to open in the Mainstage Theater Feb 4th Dates: Feb 4 - Feb 21 on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays And Saturdays at 8pm. February 14th Matinee at 2pm.

irected by Alain Perreault, EQUUS by Peter Shaffer tells the story of a psychiatrist who attempts to treat a young man who has a pathological, religious fascination with horses. An explosive play that took critics and audiences by storm; Equus is an exploration of the way modern society has destroyed our ability to feel passion. Alan Strang is a disturbed youth whose dangerous obsession with horses leads him to commit an unspeakable act of violence. As psychiatrist Martin

Dysart struggles to understand the motivation for Alan's brutality, he is increasingly drawn into Alan's web and is eventually forced to question his own sanity. Equus is a timeless classic and a cornerstone of contemporary drama that delves into the darkest recesses of human existence. The Main stage theater is located in the Act II Entertainment STAGES complex at Insurgentes 300 (corner of Basilio Badillo & Insurgentes) 2nd Floor Zona Romántica Puerto Vallarta Tel 322.222.1512

news

$100 Million Allocated to Poor

Municipalities in Southern Mexico The Mexican government allocated 1.5 billion pesos (about $102.5 million) to support marginal municipalities in the poor southern states of Chiapas, Guerrero and Oaxaca, the Finance and Public Credit Secretariat announced Monday. In all, some 508 municipalities will benefit under the plan, the deadline for requesting funds from which is March 15, the institution said in a communiqué. The terms and requirements to gain access to the resources

contained in the Infrastructure and Productivity Support Fund, or FAIP, will be published by the secretariat in the country’s Official Gazette in the coming days. The secretariat said that all solicitations for funding must be made directly through its office and “exclusively by public servants officially authorized to do so by the city halls, without the mediation of third parties.” The FAIP resources are federal, and “so the municipalities will have to transparently report the use and

Five Companies Interested in Mexico Bullet-Train Contract

ive companies have expressed interest in bidding for a contract to build a highspeed passenger rail link that will connect the Mexican capital with the central state of Queretaro, Mexico’s communications and transportation secretary said Friday. Gerardo Ruiz Esparza did not provide names but said Chinese, Canadian, Spanish, French and Italian companies were looking to take part in the tender. “The corresponding area has already met with the five most interested companies,” he said after taking part in an event in the central state of Mexico. The companies have knowledge “not only about the pre-bases (of the bidding process) but everything required to present their proposals.”

Mexico’s government published the draft bidding rules for the new tender process a week ago. The final rules will be published on Jan. 29 and the secretariat will begin accepting bids on July 14; on July 31, it will unveil the auction winner. The winning company will be responsible for guaranteeing the functionality and safety of the train and the contract includes an extended, five-year test period. China Railway Construction Company was selected to build the high-speed train line in an initial auction, but Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto’s administration subsequently canceled that contract last November amid complaints about a process that featured a sole bidder. A “social witness” appointed by

destination of same,” it said. Keeping track of the resources will be the task of the Superior Auditing Office, the Public Operations Secretariat, the local legislatures’ auditing bodies or their equivalents and the State Government Comptroller’s Office. The FAIP was established by President Enrique Peña Nieto on Nov. 27 to combat lack of security, impunity and corruption in Mexico after the crisis resulting from the disappearance of 43 teaching students in Guerrero on Sept. 26.

the Public Administration Secretariat will oversee the new bidding process to ensure transparency, the Communications and Transportation portfolio said. The Paris-based Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development also will monitor the process under an agreement with Mexico’s government. The bullet train, the first of its type in Latin America, will cover a distance of 210 kilometers (130 miles) and travel at a maximum speed of 300 kilometers (186 miles) per hour. The Mexico City-Queretaro link will be the first stage of a broader project to connect the capital via high-speed passenger rail with the Bajio region of north-central Mexico. An estimated 27,000 passengers per day will use the bullet train, while a one-way ticket will cost some 300 pesos (roughly $20). Source: LAHT.com

US Economy Can Aid Mexico Ambassador promotes bilateral investments

he favorable environment within the U.S. economy is the most important factor for attracting Mexican investment, U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Earl Anthony Wayne said Tuesday. The environment at this time is strong, which compares favorably to the volatile panorama the Mexican economy is facing, he said. Combined trade between the two nations represents nearly $1 billion daily, while U.S. companies have more than $101 billion direct investment in Mexico, Wayne said.

Mexican companies have already invested more than $33 billion in the United States, mainly in construction, manufacturing, transportation and services sectors. This investment mostly from medium and large-sized companies, Wayne said. The ambassador spoke during the announcement of the second SELECTUSA Investment Summit, to be held March 23 and 24 in Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center, outside Washington, D.C. The ambassador said Mexico is one of the 15 countries with the highest capital investment in the

United States. He said the bilateral relationship between the countries is strong. “There is space for Mexican small and medium-sized companies to come to the United States and be successful. There are government incentives. SELECTUSA has various international supports and ProMéxico is one of our allies through its internationalization office,” he said.

Jan 29- Feb 4, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Mexico to invest US$14bn in 8 wind farms

exico will invest US$14bn to build eight wind farms over the next three years, with a combined generation capacity of 2,300MW. The investment will come on the back of the US$5bn already injected into the sector, according to an energy ministry (Sener) press release. Mexico currently has 2,551MW of installed wind capacity and will add 732MW this year,

with six wind farms under construction, according to the country's wind energy association (Amdee). Other projects to be completed this year are the 102MW Sureste Fase II wind farm in the state of Oaxaca, along with the 50MW Los Azufres III geothermal plant in Michoacán state, which will become operational this quarter, Sener said. http://www.bnamericas.com/

Mexico phases out 40W lightbulbs

exico has phased out the sale of 40W lightbulbs, expecting to reduce electricity consumption up to 1BkW/h annually. The measure would also generate household savings of around 1bn pesos (US$68.5mn) a year, while also saving state utility CFE about 2bn pesos in subsidies. Lightbulbs of 40W or more will no longer be sold in Mexico, said the energy ministry (Sener). The ban is part of the national commission for energy savings' drive to reduce greenhouse gases, and will lower the country's carbon footprint by 500,000t of CO2 per

year. The ban applies to households, businesses, industry and street lighting. Lightbulbs of 100W or more were withdrawn from the market in 2011, while 75W bulbs were banned in 2012. The 60W bulbs were withdrawn starting in January. Halogen and LED light bulbs are more expensive but benefit consumers by guaranteeing lower electricity consumption, Conuee said. Sener and the electricity saving trust (Fide) will begin a program to provide families with free light bulbs in towns of fewer than 100,000 residents. http://www.bnamericas.com/

Banorte, Western Union launch international payment service By Kieran Lonergan

lobal payment services company Western Union will launch a direct-tobank money transfer service from the US to Mexico through Mexican lender Banorte's payment processing subsidiary UniTeller. The service builds on a fiveyear partnership deal between Banorte and Western Union signed in April 2013. The service will be available for transfers to Banorte accounts later this quarter, before being expanded to include other Mexican banks, according to a Western Union release. Customers will be able to transfer money at participating retail agent locations in the US or via a Western Union mobile app. Banorte's UniTeller network also covers top Mexican lenders BBVA Bancomer and the local unit of Scotiabank, as well as develop-

ment bank Bansefi. The payment processing unit is also present throughout much of Central America, as well as in Chile, Colombia, Bolivia, Argentina, Peru and Uruguay. "With this agreement, beneficiaries of remittances in Mexico will find it very convenient to open an account at our bank and directly receive the funds through Western Union with the benefit of value added banking services," said Banorte's head of international banking, trade finance and financial institutions, Ricardo Velázquez. Remittances to Mexico from January to November 2014 came to US$21.407bn, up 6.8% year-onyear, according to the country's central bank. Total remittances to Mexico in 2013 were US$21.9bn. Banorte has a network of 1,267 branches and 4,900 banking correspondents in Mexico. http://www.bnamericas.com/

entertainment

Perceptions

of Art

by Marcia Blondin

hings in the Red Room are scorching hot with Joelle Rabu coming up next week with her tribute to Edith Piaf and more. Following on those French heels is the great Lorna Luft – singer, actress on stage and screen, and author, returning to Vallarta to, once again, wow the audience, this time in the intimacy of the Red Room. Ms Luft is the daughter of the late Judy Garland and half-sister of Liza Minnelli. Tickets are already selling like crazy so HURRY UP! and get yours! Continuing in the Red Room for just a few more days before heading back to Toronto the Cold with husband George; if you haven’t seen Sharron Matthews’ show (either or both of them) do it now. I know many people who have come back 3 and 4 times to hear this great Canadian singer! Speaking of Canadians…Rob Knight a most impressive Elvis…seriously, Rob is so good he has nearly made me a fan! Miss Conception…all I can say is: what a Wild Side you have, Mr Disney! And, Kim Kuzma whose Acustico show is so popular the Red Room has had to add more and don’t forget Ms Kuzma’s Disco Fever every Wednesday. (Talk about a wild side!) The amazing Michael Walters as dazzling as Ms Dame Edna’s rhinestone glasses loves Puerto Vallarta nearly as much as Vallarta loves her back. Go and get a gladdie and thrust! thrust! thrust!…go to the show…that last line will make perfect sense! On the Main Stage, Voice of Vallarta erupted (finally) at the conclusion of last Sunday’s show. Telenovela songs are not the most favoured genre in the world but we had some drama at the end that sent the delightfully flamboyant, refreshingly fun but vocally-challenged Fernando Jara home. A note from me to him: sing every day, Fernando, and practise long and hard and we’ll see you next year spreading your joy at Voice of Vallarta Third Edition. Next week, Disco…Kim Kuzma will be onstage showing everybody how it SHOULD be done. The Golden Girls – avidly awaited by fans here in Vallarta –

were dealt a terrible blow when one of their cast members fell ill, was hospitalized and ultimately flown back to San Francisco for further treatment. This all happened on what should have been their exciting opening night. The Main Stage was dark out of respect and with switching roles and dealing with their grief and fear, The Golden Girls did what professionals do…they went on with the show! They opened one night later and gave us in the audience a nearly flawless and delightful performance. The greatest thing Vallarta can give these truly courageous

and wonderful actors is to fill the Main Stage seats for their three remaining shows and give them the gift of your laughter and applause. Please go. One of the most dramatic and starkly stunning plays comes to the Main Stage on February 4th at 8 pm. The cast of EQUUS is a diverse mix of locals and ex-pats and the couple of rehearsals I have seen have left me silent with wonder. The Palm Cabaret is celebrating! Chaz Weathers of Greater Tuna fame just had his 50th birthday and Tracy Parks’s mom and dad celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary during a packed matinee featuring the incredible Blonde Gypsies, Latcho and Andrea. Look for them again in February. Amy and Freddy are leaving to go entertain on a huge cruise ship but will return soon. Well-Strung is selling out every show and Bohemia Viva and Spencer Day are right around the corner. So much to see and hear; the quality is outstanding and the quantity? Richly abundant…so after the beach get to the theatre!

Jan 29- Feb 4, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

More Alternatives... by Marcia Blondin

oming next weekend, the Global Foundation for Integrative Medicine, Saturday, February 7, from 9 to 6 and Sunday, 9 to 7 pm; all taking place at the Fiesta Americana Hotel. While doctors, nurses, scientists and other professionals are urged to expand their knowledge at this Congress it is specifically aimed at the lay person with questions about their own overall health and well-being. There are many – too many – people who have exhausted ‘conventional medicine’ for one reason or another and are searching for alternatives that can help ease or eliminate chronic

pain, cure diseases and more. This Congress is bringing together speakers from around the world who specialize and, more importantly, want to share their knowledge, expertise and practise of alternative medicine for the betterment and wellness of all mankind. The theme of this year’s Congress is: “New Dimensions in Wellness Healing with Subtle Energies” and will be conducted in English with Spanish translation available for those who request it. For more information please go to www.gfim-world.com For wellness go to the Congress.

entertainment

Jan 29- Feb 4, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Lorna Luft: Accentuating the Positive By Deb J

oming from a 'show biz' family has its advantages. But unless one is truly gifted, works hard and is incredibly persistent, it's very difficult to sustain a career in entertainment. Lorna Luft, the daughter of Judy Garland and the sister of Liza Minnelli, has established a long and successful career in her own right. Puerto Vallarta is pleased to welcome back Lorna Luft for performances on February 11, 12, 13 and 14 at The Red Room, Act II Entertainment. To say that Puerto Vallarta was abuzz with anticipation for her arrival last year would be an understatement. And perhaps this year the anticipation is even greater, now that we know first hand, what a great talent, fabulous entertainer and genuinely nice person she is. When you listen to Lorna sing, you can feel the music deeply as she delves into each song with heart and soul. With a very classy, cabaret style, she gently woos the audience with her gentle melodies and expressive delivery. Although great performers like Luft, make it look easy, we know there are only a few that convey

that 'special magic,' we're all looking for in entertainment. Born on November 21, 1952, as the daughter of legendary performer Judy Garland, Lorna Luft has carved out her own career as an entertainer. Her first appearances were on 'The Judy Garland Show,' when she was an adolescent. In 1967, she joined the Broadway show, 'At Home at the Palace,' singing duets with her mother. After her mother's death, she moved on to make television guest appearances, act in movies and star in theater along with pursuing a music career. She spent almost two years on the road, performing in the musical, 'Guys and Dolls.' Lorna put her vocal talents to use in films like, 'Grease 2' and 'Where the Boys Are.' She also appeared with Farrah Fawcett in the incredibly gripping movie, 'Extremities.' She is the author of the 1998 book Me and My Shadows: A Family Memoir. In 2001, the book was adapted as an Emmy-winning TV miniseries Life with Judy Garland: Me and My Shadows. Having premiered her one-woman show, Songs My Mother Taught Me, in London in 2004, she has since toured

This week at the Mainstage Thank You for Being a Friend The Golden Girls Closing Weekend 3 SHOWS ONLY: JANUARY 29, 30 AND 31 AT 8PM

HE GOLDEN GIRLS LIVE PERFORM TO PACKED HOUSES. Staring four of San Francisco’s top drag luminaries; Daft-nee Gesuntheit (Dorothy), Kim Burly (Sophia), Pollo Del Mar (Blanche) and Turleen (Rose). The mise-en-scène is reasonably straightforward: Take four talented drag performers, cast them in two classic episodes of the ground-breaking and uproarious TV show: THE GOLDEN GIRLS, and hilarity will ensue. The Golden Girls started performances in San Francisco in

2006 in the front parlour of a Victorian Mansion in the Western Addition of the City by the Bay. The shows quickly became more and more popular with the shows being performed twice annually – for a month every June and for a month each December. As The Golden Girls became more popular, they moved to sold out-runs at ever larger venues. In 2011 the show moved to the 500 seat Victoria Theatre where it now plays every December, for smash runs of its Christmas episodes. In 2013 all 12 shows sold out! They've toured with the shows from New Orleans to the Russian River, and now look forward to their Puerto Vallarta debut!

several times with the production. The show is a celebration of her mother’s most famous songs. Lorna puts her own spin on Garland standards like 'The Man That Got Away' and 'Chicago.' A CD of the music from the show was released in 2007. On a personal level, people find Lorna a very comfortable person to be around. Her lovely, calm demeanor, along with her every day, normal

The Voice of Vallarta Season 2 Disco Week is here. DATES: SUNDAY NIGHTS at 8PM

he Voice of Vallarta returns to the Main Stage! Week EIGHT for the long-awaited DISCO WEEK WITH special GUEST PERFORMER: THE ONE AND ONLY KIM KUZMA. This week the contestants Get down and boogie with DISCO music. Once again the highest attended show in Vallarta history is looking for the best singer in the Bay of Banderas, hosted once again by Juan Pablo Hernandez, who turns SPANGLISH into an art form! This year taking the judges chairs are: PVMC Choral Director, Alfonso Lopez and returning to the table, Kharla Barragan, Edgar Sanchez and our weekly celebrity guest judge. The Voice of Vallarta will run every Sunday till the big closing night March 29th.

conversations make her both a fascinating and an approachable person to spend time with. Having both experienced and contributed to many different areas of the entertainment business, Lorna Luft is perhaps most at home on the intimate cabaret stage, communicating the lyrics and music of beloved songs to her audience.

Singer-songwriter Spencer Day steals hearts at The Palm

eturning to The Palm for a second engagement this season, is popular singer-songwriter Spencer Day, Jan. 30th - Feb. 10th. Puerto Vallarta just can’t get enough of this up and coming modern-jazz artist who has stolen the hearts of millions all over the world. Over the years, Spencer’s fan base has grown immensely and continues to soar. A clear tipping point was a few years ago, when he was asked to perform at the San Francisco Jazz Festival, which led to many requests to headline in a number of music venues including: Yoshi’s in San Francisco and Oakland, the Plush Room, the Great American Music Hall, The Monterey Jazz Festival and at The Hollywood Bowl in L.A. On the east coast, he has

earned rave reviews for performances at Town Hall, Joe’s Pub, and the Canal Room in New York City. In addition, he has headlined internationally in England, Japan, The Philippines, and Australia, and he has enjoyed immense popularity here in Mexico at The Palm Cabaret and Bar. Spencer Day was raised in the small town of Pinetop, Arizona by his mother, an accomplished music teacher and soprano vocalist. Her talent and love of music encouraged and influenced him to become the singer and musician he is today. Spencer found inspiration in the works of Cole Porter, George Gershwin, Roy Orbison, Joni Mitchell, Paul Simon and many others. The past year was jam-packed with international

entertainment

Luna Rumba shakes

Vallarta's music scene By Gary R.Beck

fter a successful run here last season, Puerto Vallarta welcomes back Luna Rumba. The band was created in 2012 in Zihuatanejo, Mexico when Geo (George) Uhrich met Cheko Ruiz. They soon begin work on songs for a CD. With the help of Chas Eller (Charles Eller Studios LLC and keyboardist of The Banderas Bay Jazz Allstars), the CD was assembled and they played live gigs to cement the sound. The styles are a fusion of Gypsy, Mexican, Spanish, Cuban, Celtic, Flamenco, Middle Eastern and Rock with Rumba rhythms. From beautiful, romantic ballads to fiery dance numbers, the group entices with infectious sounds and beats. Cheko won finalist award in 2013 in the World Music category of the John Lennon International Songwriting contest and in 2014 honorable mention at the USA International Songwriting Competi-

tion for co-writing a song with Geo for best instrumental song. Their first CD "Sin Fronteras" (Without Borders), appropriately titled and entirely self-written, is a fantastic eclectic set of songs, copies are available at the concert. Cheko is an accomplished vocalist, composer, arranger and rhythm guitarist. Geo is an inspiring, accomplished musician and composer who plays nylon and electric guitars and 5 string violin. Alex Gonzalez rules his set of drums masterfully, including a box on which he sits on called a cajon Peruano. The two Mexicans and one Canadian blend sounds into rhythms, evoking the area of Catalonia: northern Spain and Southern France. Catalan music has one of the oldest documented musical traditions in Europe. Early American rumba was introduced into American dance salons at the beginning of the 20th century, characterized by a tempo nearly twice as fast as the modern ballroom rumba.

For further excitement, a lovely dancer Lilly Alcantara appears often. She is dressed in coordination with the tunes in long flowing skirts and form-fitting Latin attire. A bright Brazilian outfit was particularly impressive, especially her tall feathery dancehall hat. It looked like she had stepped on stage at the Tropicana in Havana, Cuba. The band is confident, sure and united in its musical approach. Smooth lilts are followed by wild and driving riffs. Written by Geo, "Violin Song" created a warm relationship with the audience. "Shambo" was a wild uptempo jaunt which pulsated and rocked the body. Phenomenal ballads stir your heart. The Mexican standard song popularized by Lola Beltron, "Cucurrucuco Paloma" (Spanish for Coo-coo Dove, in reference to the dove's onomatopoeia) stunningly beautiful, stood out from past heard versions resulting in a unique brand new song. "Vamoa Rumbear" is driving and energetic. "Love to Eros" pleads softly, almost plaintive. Suddenly the group breaks into an uptempo romp. "Junta a Tu" is Cheko's standout. The room hushed in silence listening to his fine vocals. He is

Jan 29- Feb 4, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

backed by harmonious vocals and lightly strummed guitar rhythm. "Caravana" inspired a vision of galloping horses, possibly across the Spanish plains. Luna Rumba will steal your heart away. The Puerto Vallarta Bahia de Banderas Area is privi-

leged to have this fine professional group here to thrill our ears and spirits. Act II Box Office and The Palm opens at noon for ticket purchases. Also, check this website which offers tickets for top local shows. www.vallartatickets.com

Comedy Drag Icon Coco Peru Live! At The Palm

touring, writing and recording new music. Spencer also recently signed a multi-year contract with Modern Works Music Publishing. The aim of this partnership is to bring more of Spencer’s evocative music to films, television, Broadway and commercials. During his second engagement at The Palm, Spencer will have Yair Evnine join him on stage. He is a classically trained cellist and guitarist who has

performed, recorded, produced and written with many theatrical and musical artists, including Duncan Sheik, Meow Meow, Alan Cumming, Lady Rizo, Taylor Mac, Justin Bond, and Spencer. A full calendar of performances, information and online tickets are available at www. ThePalmPV.com. Box Office opens at 11:00 a.m. daily. You can also find the Palm on Facebook at The Palm Cabaret and Bar.

he Palm Cabaret and Bar is excited to announce the return of popular comedienne, monologist and film and television personality, Miss Coco Peru, in Coco Peru Live!, February 2 -15. Recognizable by her trademark copper-toned flip hairdo, Miss Coco is the iconic drag persona of American actor and comedian Clinton Leupp. He is a native of City Island, New York and a 1983 graduate of Cardinal Spellman High School in the Bronx, New York. For more than twenty years, Miss Coco Peru has starred in various one-woman shows across the U.S. and other countries, including Puerto Vallarta, where audiences fell in love with her last season. Coco has also hosted numerous LGBT events, and is well-known for her many hilarious movie roles and her series of live theater performances. She starred in Richard Day's ‘Girls Will Be Girls’ and was one of six performers featured in the Logo original stand-up comedy series,

Wisecrack. Coco has also appeared in a number of other supporting and guest-starring roles in film and television, including a memorable and hilarious appearance in the 1999 independent film, Trick and the very successful film To Wong Foo - Thanks for Everything, Julie Newmar with Hollywood heavyweights Patrick Swayze, Wesley Snipes and John Leguizamo. Since 2005, Coco has hosted the ‘Conversations with Coco’ series in which she interviews and celebrates the lives and careers of some of the LGBT community's favorite icons including Bea Arthur, Lesley Ann Warren, Karen Black, Lily Tomlin, Liza Minnelli and Jane Fonda. . In Coco Peru Live!, she performs some of her favorite monologues and songs spanning her long career, as well as some new material. Whether you’ve heard all or some of these stories, or if you’re a Coco virgin, come see why Lily Tomlin called Coco “one of the last great storytellers” and experience the trailblazing Queen who elevated drag, whilst

still wearing sensible heels. It’s sure to be hysterical! Online tickets may be purchased at The Palm’s website, please see link below. A full calendar of performances, information and online tickets are available at www.ThePalmPV.com. Box Office opens at 11:00 a.m. daily. You can also find the Palm on Facebook at The Palm Cabaret and Bar.

art and culture

Jan 29- Feb 4, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Mexico at Oscars again this year Birdman and The Reaper win nominations for the Academy Awards

exican filmmakers will be attending the Oscars next month for the second year in a row. Alejandro González Iñárritu will be attending the Academy Awards ceremony for his film Birdman, nominated for best picture and best director. The film also has nominations for best screenwriting — González Iñárritu, sound editing — Martín Hernández, and cinematography — Emmanuel Lubezki, who was also a winner last year. The Mexican film The Reaper, produced by Centro de Capacitación Cinematográfica and written

and directed by Gabriel Serra Argüello, has been nominated for best documentary short. At least year’s ceremony Mexico was represented by Alfonso Cuarón, director of Gravity, and Lubezki, who won the best cinematography award for the same film. Mexico has a long and successful history at the Oscars, says a report by Latin Post, having earned 62 nominations and 14 wins in their 87-year history. One of the most famous nominees was Anthony Quinn, nominated twice for best actor but he never won.

However, he did win best supporting actor twice, becoming the first Mexican to win an acting award at the Academy Awards. The only Mexican actress nominated for best actress was Salma Hayek. Birdman’s director González has been nominated once before, and cinematographer Lubezki has been nominated seven times. In the best art direction category Mexicans have been nominated 13 times, winning four. This year’s ceremony takes place on February 22. mexiconewsdaily.com

LGBT Association of Commerce and Tourism heads into second season

he LGBT Association of Commerce and Tourism is an influential legal coalition representing the interests of Puerto Vallarta LGBT and LGBTfriendly businesses and independent professionals to promote economic growth. The history of ACT LGBT A.C. began in March 2013, when

a group of business professionals who understood the need to promote our destination nationally and internationally came together. In January 2014, the group officially became a civil association with the mission is to promote and defend the interests of the Puerto Vallarta LGBT business community and support the growth of all

Mexican Receives

Int’l Art Award

exican artist, Pedro Reyes received the Art in the Embassies Medal Award at a luncheon held by the U.S. State Department Wednesday. Reyes has gained recognition by blending architecture and video performances. His work has also sparked public change. He organized “Palas por Pistolas” (Shovels for Guns) an art project aimed a reducing the trade of small weapons in Mexico. The donated guns were re-mounded into 1,527 gardening tools. The program broke the national record of voluntary donations.

its members. Through events, ACT LGBT A.C. offers a number of opportunities to learn and connect with a great network of LGBT entrepreneurs. These opportunities are scheduled for every second Tuesday of the month at 6:30PM and are hosted by a different locations to

showcase local businesses. But undoubtedly the main event of ACT LGBT A.C. is Vallarta Pride, an annual event held during the last days of May to celebrate the diversity of the LGBT community who live and visit Puerto Vallarta. The first Vallarta Pride was a 3-day celebration, which grew to 5 days for 2014 and in 2015 will

be held from May 17th to 25th. During its first year as an official civil association, ACT LGBT A.C. launched a membership opportunities which cost $1,500 pesos, with discounted fees for Junior Memberships and Senior Citizens. You can obtain more information via email at info@actlgbt.org or by calling 322-182-2589.

local

Jan 29- Feb 4, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Paradise

and Parenting

My Life

In Vallarta

Leza Warkentin mommyinmexico.wordpress.com

By Lois Ellison loell87@yahoo.com

Villa Azalea

Everyone has a Story

find that my husband and I are pretty easy to please when it comes to weekend getaways. If I can shower without someone knocking to ask how much I really liked the toaster, that door can be made of canvas just as well as ornamented gold. Happily, our seventh wedding anniversary was spent in a place much closer to Florence’s Duomo than the tent we camped in when I was six. Cupocity has really upped our family’s game. Half price day passes, restaurant deals, and even hotel discounts, there are offers every day. Not only that, places come up that we would never have heard of otherwise, and this was the case when we began to plan our night away. So we can feel exactly like tourists on the weekend and still manage to make soccer practice at school on Monday. Win/sort of win. Our kids like to be included in family outings nowadays and can’t imagine that our trip would be one iota of fun without them anyhow. We explained to our children in terms that they would understand by calling it a “sleepover for mommy and daddy”. My daughter pointed out that we got to have a sleepover every night anyway, so it still wasn’t fair. I then asked her if she had already finished her homework. Villa Azalea Inn and Organic farm is family-owned and situated just past the Botanical Garden, on km 184, about ten minutes before El Tuito. I noticed a coupon for less than half the regular price for one night with three meals included. It’s always wonderful to feel like you are so far from home on a quarter tank of gas. We stepped onto the lush, green property and into the cool of the little hotel and were immediately transported. It is sophisticated and cozy at the same time. Dulce Arguero is the owner and met us at the door to give us a mini tour and take us to our room.

Here are our favorite things about Villa Azalea…. We recommend you take a trip and start a list of your own! 1) The property itself, what a unique little gem! We had a gorgeous view from our room of the river and the pool. Others had views of their beautiful gardens which include fruit trees and a variety of flowers. You could sit out in a beach chair in a little river oasis to enjoy lunch or just a bit of relaxation, hang out in a couples hammock, or choose one of two pools for a swim. 2) The FOOD, my friends, the food! The coupon included three meals and each one was taken on the balcony with the same wonderful vista laid out in front of us. We were taken on a tour of the property by Dulce’s son. In the garden he had us choose our own lettuce, basil and tomatoes for our lunch salad. Dulce knows her way around a kitchen and uses only the freshest, most delicious ingredients. If you let her know ahead of time she is happy to accommodate special diets. 3) The silence. The quiet. The tranquility. How many other ways could I say that? It was golden. We took a walk up the river and the ONLY thing we heard was the water and each other (and three neighborhood children who called “Hey gringaaaa!” But in the loveliest way.). We came back and chose a movie from the immense selection and hung out in our room. There may have been some dozing that happened. Hey man, romance looks different for everyone. You say wine and roses, we say all that PLUS George Clooney, Sandra Bullock and a warm comforter (it’s a bit cooler at night than Vallarta. Pure heaven). If you would like to know more and reserve your own chance at eating like royalty and napping like kittens, check out their website at http://www.villaazalea.com.mx

he article is part of a series about some of the extraordinary people we’ve met here. They are not the rich, the famous or the eccentric that you typically read about but each has a story worth telling. They are the people you see every day: waiters, cab drivers, vendors, business owners and your neighbors. This week, meet:

The Greyhound

He wasn’t always known as The Greyhound. He was born Felipe Reyes into a family of twelve children. As a young child, Felipe often ran up the long stairs from his house at the bottom of a steep hill to the market on top. It was there that he first realized the joy of running. When he was twelve, he asked his teacher if he could participate in a competition he’d heard about. The teacher just laughed at him, saying he was too short and too skinny. Well, you can imagine the devastating effect that would have on a young boy. Completely deflated, he lost interest in school and began emulating destructive behaviors he’d seen in his father. This dark period last about four years until he joined a rescue team where he learned self-discipline and received training as a paramedic. His group was assigned to assist during a Papal visit to Mexico City in the 1970’s. It was an amazing experience. Soon after, he devoted himself to running fulltime. For his first race all he had was a pair of Converse shoes which are not designed for running. Despite a strong start, he finished last. Now totally demoralized, he turned again to drinking and smoking. In 1980, Felipe moved to Puerto Vallarta to try to earn some money. Over time he took a variety of jobs including peeling shrimp in a restaurant, washing dishes and cleaning floors. Soon he was back

on track, living a healthy life, and running. He joined a local team, Club Tortuga. Maybe they were turtles but he was so fast they dubbed him The Greyhound and the name stuck. A few years later, he entered his first half-marathon in Puerto Vallarta. Although he was the shortest runner, his determination propelled him across the finish line ahead of everyone else. After being awarded a 3.5 gram gold coin, he became the unofficial promoter of running in Vallarta. During this time, Felipe developed an interest in massage therapy. With everything else going on in his life, he began studying, first on his own, and then attending seminars and courses; he ultimately became certified in therapeutic massage. He also taught himself to speak English using books with phonetic spellings. The Greyhound asked the City to sponsor him for the 1989 Mexico City marathon. They agreed to reimburse him but he would have to put up his own money up front. It took every peso he had. Despite his coming in second with an amazing time of two hours and forty-one minutes, the city reneged on the deal. Broke and despondent, Felipe began sleeping on benches in Lazaro Cardenas park.

Those next four years were another dark time for Felipe. But once again it was his love of running that finally pulled him through. From 1996 to 2004 he coached over seventy-five young people. He had so much to share. Not just his speed, but the lessons he had learned about tenacity and overcoming obstacles. During those years, The Greyhound was the best local runner but many races were political. Even when he finished in first place, he was often denied prizes; sometimes because he was in an older age bracket, and other times because he wasn’t a native Vallartense. Ultimately he realized that he would continue to run, not to win prizes but for the sheer joy of it. Felipe is proud to be among the few certified massage therapists in Puerto Vallarta. You can find him on I. Vallarta, just south of Basilio Badillo. But if you are interested in running, you should look for him Sunday mornings at 7:30 a.m. by the Stadium, right across from the Sheraton. He leads groups of runners of all ages and abilities, providing tips and coaching. Best of all, it is free. Next time you are out on the Malecon in the early morning and someone races past you in a blur, it just might be The Greyhound.

Frankies

ewly opened, Frankieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.

local

Jan 29- Feb 4, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Sewing Seeds International Inauguration

y definition, an inauguration is ‘a ceremony to mark the beginning’. It does not define what this beginning is; at the Sewing Seeds school in colonia Volcanes (Puerto Vallarta), inauguration means the beginning of so many things. For the Students of Sewing Seeds, it is truly a new beginning for them. It is a step into independence, pride, and empowerment. It builds self esteem and worth. Students are both woman and men, from teenagers to grandmothers. These are the people that will aspire to new avenues in life. It may be a job at a factory, repair shop, or other service business. For the entrepreneurs in class, they may start their own enterprise into undiscovered ‘needs’ in the market place. When we think of ‘sewing’, we assume clothing, but quite often needs are found in industry such as: upholstery, shoe & leather, curtains and décor items, awnings, car & boat covers, tarps, and even sails for the big boats! The opportunities are endless. In the families of these students, the inauguration brings the prospect of additional income, more self reliance, and a step forward. The new found sewing skill is immediately utilized in the family clothing repair, creation, or simply sewing sheets, pillows, quilts and curtains for the home. Many times, this sewing skill flows into a home business for extra income. Children in the family may be able to further their primary education or dream of post education. Nowhere is an additional skill evidenced more, than in the commu-

nity itself. Neighbours, friends and relatives all share in the student’s new expertise. Passion comes alive, neighbourhoods benefit from

new services, others are inspired to attend sewing classes themselves, and just maybe, enterprise begins. It starts slow … in the form

of a home business, then grows to a Co-Op, and maybe even a small factory. Once this happens, there will be a need for pattern makers, pattern graders, cutters, and sewing machine mechanics. Sewing teachers are groomed for service in other parts of the state or country. It simply grows and addresses future opportunities in the greater community. Today, it may be an inauguration for a few students, but its effects will be seen by communities for generations to come. Sewing Seeds International

thanks those who share this vision: Mayor Ramon Guerrero, col. Volcanes / Puerto Vallarta, Volcanes Community Education Project, and Puerto Vallarta Rotary. Without their efforts and contributions, project inaugurations are not always possible. Sewing Seeds International will be back in Vallarta: April (Intermediate classes) and October (Advanced Classes). News of this school has already resulted in emails from Mazatlan, Mexico, Guatemala, and Dominican Republic. Sewing Seeds International is honored to ‘partner’ with such motivated communities. Sewing Seeds already has schools started in Sierra Leone, Ukraine, and Peru. Plans are being made to set up in Democratic Republic of Congo in 2016. For further Contact … Sewing Seeds International (Canada) www.sewingseedscanada.com (CDN Charity) vimeo.com/19882742 half hour CTV documentary. www.facebook.com/ SewingSeedsInternational Contact: Kelly Grams, grams. kelly@gmail.com Volcanes Community Education Project (in Vallarta) volcanesproject.com/ Contact: Arthur Fumerton, artfumerton@gmail.com Donate sewing supplies, arrange Tours, etc.

travel / sports

Jan 29- Feb 4, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Travellers' Choice Awards 2015

Random Thoughts from the Tribune sports Desks

allarta – Nayarit takes top honours at this year’s Traveller’s Choice award through everyone’s favourite travel rating site Trip Advisor. A solid congratulations to the Riviera Nayarit hotels and resorts for really stepping up their game in recent years. Hopefully with the recent upgrades in many of Puerto Vallarta’s resorts and hotels we’ll see more Vallarta names on this list next year.

Top 25 Hotels 1. The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort 10. Signature by Pinnacle 13. Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita 15. Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit 22. Villa La Estancia

Top 25 Small Hotels

12. Imanta Resort

Top 25 Hotels for Romance

13. The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort

Top 25 Luxury Hotels

1. The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort 15. Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita 17. Marival Residences Luxury Resort 18. Villa La Estancia 19. Imanta Resort 20. Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit

Punta de Mita, Mexico Puerto Vallarta, Mexico Punta de Mita, Mexico Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico Punta de Mita, Mexico Punta de Mita, Mexico Punta de Mita, Mexico Punta de Mita, Mexico Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico Punta de Mita, Mexico Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico

Top 25 Hotels for Families

7. Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico 9. Marival Residences Luxury Resort Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico 11. Now Amber Puerto Vallarta, Mexico 14. Velas Vallarta Suites Resort Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Top 25 Hotels for Service

4. The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort 15. Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit 22. Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita

Top 10 Beaches

8. Nuevo Vallarta Beach

Punta de Mita, Mexico Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico Punta de Mita, Mexico Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico

Explore Banderas Bay

uerto Vallarta is located in the middle of Banderas Bay, one of the largest bays in Mexico at nearly 100km in length. It is bounded in the north by Punta de Mita and in the south by Cabo Corrientes. It straddles the states of Jalisco and Nayarit, divided along the Ameca River. The bay is home to many wonderful communities and an abundance of natural wonders. In the winter and spring seasons you can witness the awe inspiring beauty of the humpback whales as they calve in the warm waters of the bay, in the summer you can experience the majesty of the sea turtles hatching and returning to their watery world. The fall brings renewed vigour to the mountains and rivers with the fresh rains and revived vegetation. No matter when you visit, Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit will share their wonders with you. Here is a selection of some of the many things you can do while visiting us.

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

By Joel Hansen

about this city’s rich history, famous people, architecture, and cultural and ecological heritage; all this on an easy to moderate two-hour stroll led by a certified guide. Tours leave from the Municipal Tourism Office every Tuesday and Wednesday at 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m and Saturdays at 9:00 a.m. Shopping in the Zona Romantica – this charming neighbourhood is also called Old Town and is a popular residential area for expats and Mexican families. Along the main streets you will find shops galore, filled with wonderful authentic crafts, clothing, jewelry, excellent restaurants, spas, theaters and more. Vibrant and friendly, this

area offers an excellent day or two (or more!) of exploring. Close to Los Muertos beach, consider ending your day with a sunset margarita at any of the many beachfront restaurants. Sunsets on the Malecon - Sitting on the edge of the Pacific Ocean never fails to give us a sunset each night. Grab a seat at any of the number of excellent bars and restaurants along the malecon, order your favourite cocktail and let it all slip away. Once the sun has set, the malecon comes alive with families out for a stroll, plenty of live entertainment and later in the night, the nightclubs beckon.

oday I made a list of reasons I have been feeling bored over the last couple days. Now obviously I have no excuse to be bored. I live in one of the greatest places on Earth. I am surrounded by the ocean, great friends and a perfect climate, amazing culture, friendly faces and lots and lots of tacos, but I still managed to find a few reasons. 1. My girlfriend is out of town. 2. My son is out of town. 3. My ex-wife is out of town. 4. My dog is out of town (Yes, my dog is on a holiday to Canada) 5. It has been overcast, so no beach days. 6. I am taking a few weeks off drinking. 7. I was feeling lazy so no effort to go on awesome hikes or paddle boarding. 8. I am taking a few weeks off drinking (Did i mention that?) 9. No football and no hockey (and All-Star games do not count) 10. I do not care, repeat, I do not care about how Tom Brady likes his balls. 11. My baseball team, the 13th ranked Mighty Marineros of the 3rd division of the Liga de Softball de

Vallarta was on bye week. 12. I don’t care that Marshawn Lynch is a weirdo and doesn’t want to talk to the media 13. I find Richard Sherman’s efforts to prove how smart he is all the time exhausting and do not care what he has to say. 14. I have not been eating carbs. I miss tacos. 15. Finally, I am taking a few weeks off drinking. Thank goodness this past week is over. Seriously. I was so bored on the weekend I almost adopted a cat from the good people over at the Purr Project. But thankfully, hockey starts back up, the Marineros play the hated Sr. Beer squad in 3rd division softball this week, my kid returns, my girlfriend returns, my ex-wife returns, no dog though, (she has elected to stay and enjoy the fresh Rocky Mountain air for a few more weeks) and finally, and most importantly football returns. I love this Super Bowl match-up, I have looked forward to it all year and think/hope it will be one for the ages, and I might enjoy a few beers and a few carbs during the game. Patriots 28 Seahawks 24

Vallarta-Nayarit: Shopping AND EVENTS guide vallartashoppingdirectory.blogspot.com Urban Farmer Curtis Stone brings

workshop to Banderas Bay growers

earn how you can farm on just a quarter acre of land and make $50,000, or even $100,000 on half an acre. Curtis Stone is the owner/ operator of Green City Acres, a commercial urban farm in Kelowna, BC. Since 2010, he has been successfully farming on multiple urban lots in the city’s downtown, and will demonstrate to you, that you can farm on very small plots of land without the debt burden of a mortgage or the high capital expenses of the usual infrastruc-

ture that most farms need. Curtis wants to show you how you can shave off two to three years of the mistakes he made, and get you off to a strong start now, making a great living doing something you love! In this two day workshop, you will learn about strategic production techniques that focus on high value crops with short growth cycles as well as specialized and niche market streams such as restaurants, and cooperative CSA’s. You will also learn how to

use modern technology to better manage your business that will save you time and money! Topics covered will include: market research, site selection, site negotiation, crop selection, bed layout, tools, planting, weeding, watering timers, harvesting, market prep & storage, and much more! Profitable Urban Farming – 2 day workshop. Feb 28 - March 1 @ 5:00 pm More information at GreenCityAcres.com

PV to celebrate Mardi Gras on February 17

nnual event showcases the city's diversity, say organizers Mardi Gras season is coming to Puerto Vallarta with a grand parade scheduled for February 17. The city-sponsored parade will begin in front of the municipal stadium at 8:00pm, travel south along the malecon, through “Old Town” and to Olas Altas and the new pier.

Organizers say the event represents a time for celebration and an opportunity to showcase the city’s diversity. “It is an occasion that unites the advanced with the conventional, the straight with the gay, gratification with religion, and the adolescent with the old. “ Leading the 3.5-kilometer-long parade as grand marshals will be the Act II’s Voice of Vallarta contestants.

Flower of the Week Allamanda Allamanda (Spanish) Allamanda cathartica

ellow Trumpet Vine. In the dogbane family, this mildly poisonous ornamental vine is grown on fences, railings, balconies and walls. It’s bright yellow flowers are often mistaken for the Cup of Gold vine. Flowers also come in wine and pink colors. As its Latin name indicates, locals use the flowers to make a purgative tea for parasites; has also been used to treat liver tumors, jaundice, and malaria. This plant is one of over 200 found in Sandra’s color-coded guidebook, Tropical Plants and Walks of Puerto Vallarta. Available at the Vallarta Botanical Gardens’ gift shop www.vbgardens.org, Page in the Sun Bookstore, and from Sandra at Vallarta Farmer’s Markets on Fridays and Saturdays. Information on her many area walks can be found at: www. escaperoutevallarta.com.

EVENTS 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. Thursday, January 29 7 PM the IFC will present "Your Healthcare Options in Puerto Vallarta" presented by Pam Thompson of Healthcare Resources, discussing Information on Hospitals, Specialists, Emergency Care, Insurance Coverage, and other important topics. Donation: $40 pesos or 3 canned goods at the door (no advance tickets) Doors open at 6:30 PM. January 29th to February 1st 4th Annual Arena Vallarta International Charro Championships This isn’t like your rodeo back home, the 4th National Charro Championship ‘Grand Premio 2015’ is the perfect way to enjoy the real Mexico and its traditions. Friday evening will feature a Charro parade along the Malecon, always a stunning display of horsemanship. Not to be missed. $80 pesos a day at Arena Vallarta. Saturday & Sunday, February 7 & 8 Global Foundation for Integrative Medicine At the Fiesta Americana Hotel gfimworld@gmail.com

More than 20,000 spectators turned out for last year’s event and dozens of entries participated. The coordinators are offering a 5,000peso cash prize this year for the most inventive parade entry. Non-profit organizations can join the parade at no cost; businesses must pay 200 pesos. Registration can be made at mardigraspv.com.

Sandra Cesca

Sunday, February 8th “Sicilian Soirée” Sapori di Sicilia Restaurant This fundraiser for the San Juan Diego Seniors’ Home will feature a Sicilian 4-course dinner with live music by Bohemia Viva. Two seatings: 6:00pm or 8:00pm. Ignacio L. Vallarta #228, Zona Romantica Monday, February 9, 9-5pm Medical Matters Conference Held at the Hotel Marriott Casamagna there will be over 50 exhibitors, speakers and events geared towards educating you on medical matters. Free to attend. 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 Friday February 13th INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN WITH CANCER DAY Annual Breakfast Fundraiser at Oscar’s on the River Cuale There is no better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day than giving a child with cancer a smile and the much needed opportunity to continue their treatment. There are surprises, gifts, raffles and the opportunity to meet all these children. Please buy your tickets in advance at Oscar’s restaurant, Carol’s boutique on Basilio Badillo and the salon Alexander in Plaza Marina 25D. US$20 or the equivalent in pesos $290 includes buffet breakfast. Saturday February 14th IFC Dinner Under the Stars A Valentine’s Day Dinner Fundraiser at La Traviata, located on the top floor of the Paloma del Mar Hotel, Honduras #309. Includes a welcome margarita/person. Cocktails at 6:30pm dinner at 7:00pm. The full menu is available and details at ifcvallarta.com under events. $500 pesos/person. Tuesday, February 17 at 9:00pm Mardi Gras – Puerto Vallarta Mark this date in your calendar. Join up with friends and build a float or plan on hitting the street to watch this fantastic spectacle. Plenty of other events happening in support. More information can be found at www.mardigraspv.com/ Tuesday, February 24 at 7:00pm The Gift of Story: Capturing and Preserving Family Memories An IFC special presentation by author Candace George Thompson. Donation for IFC charities: $50 pesos at the door. www.ifcvallarta.com February 26-28 IFC Mindfulness Meditation Retreat. The retreat will feature Kavindu, Director of Meditation and co-founder, Yogaespacio.com. The Program is entitled, “A Mindful Path from Difficult Emotion to Creative Action”. Info and registration material at the IFC offices or on the website ifcvallarta.com.

March 5-8 4th Annual Vallarta Bird Festival The Banderas Bay Region is home to over 300 species of different birds. The Festival is hosted by the Vallarta Bird Conservancy. Four action packed days of birding and natures walks with expert guides in unique habitats will be sure to satisfy even the most advanced birders, workshops and lectures from local and international authorities on many interesting bird and birding related topics will round out the festival. www.vallartabirdconservancy. org/ May 17-25, 2015 Vallarta Pride Focusing on the theme of Unity, this year’s weeklong event is one of the best Pride events in Mexico. More information at vallartapride.com

NOTICE TO US CITIZENS

n Wednesday February 18 the U.S. Consulate will make a special trip to the IFC. 10AM- 11AM- Notary services for Healthcare and Final Disposition Affidavit for U.S. Citizens IMPORTANT. You must email the Consular Agency at consularagentpvr@prodigy. net.mx beforehand and

request that they send you the affidavit. Document must be completely filled out, with no scratch outs, and brought with you to the IFC on February 18. Client must also bring their original and copy of passport (data and signature page only). NOTE: This affidavit is helpful for single people or same-sex couples who are not married in Mexico. Married couples do

IFC MOVIE SERIES: HOLLYWOOD CLASSICS.

onday evenings with an Academy Award Best Picture winner each week. Only $40 pesos with free popcorn. Bar opens at 6:30 and movie begins at 7:00. www.ifcvallarta.com The February films are: Feb 2–Around The World in 80 Days (1956), Michael Todd Dir, David Niven, Cantinflas, Robert Newton, Shirley McClain Feb 9–Bridge on the River Kwai (1957), David Lean Dir, Alec Guinness, William Holden Feb 16–West Side Story (1961), Robert Wise and Jerome Robbins Dir, Natalie Wood, Richard Beymer Feb 23–The French Connection (1971), William Friedkin Dir, Gene Hackman, Roy Scheider

ign up now for one of Kathleen’s 2015 Summer Painting workshops in Tuscan region of Italy. Still room for you and your friend, and one spot left for the Italian Riviera painting excursion. Visit the Kathleen Carrillo gallery, now located in her beautiful new space at 325 Constitution, around the corner from the upstairs gallery on Basilio Badillo to register for this exciting Italy workshop opportunity. Showing now, newest works from last summer’s workshops in Cinque Terre and Tuscany Italy! There are still spaces available in her one day workshops also but they are filling up fast! Foodies, Flowers and Landscapes are the subjects! Go to www.YourCreativeAwakening.com for more information. To see more of Kathleen’s latest works from her many collections go to www.Kathleen CarrilloGalleries. com or be sure to stop by the new and expanded gallery space. To contact the gallery 044 322 141 8867.

Kathleen Carrillo Galleries Goes to Italy!

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

not need this affidavit. Two witnesses must attend to sign in person and bring original passport and copy with them. Cost is $50USD or $750mxn (correct change required) 11AM -Various Consular Services. No appointments, first come, first served. You must arrive by NOON to receive a number and be served during this visit. Look for more information at the IFC offices or ifcvallarta.com.

riviera nayarit

Fun on the Riviera Nayarit By Cat Morgan

www.rivieranayaritfun.com

For any questions, comments or information about tours, rentals, restaurant and entertainment please contact me at Cat@RivieraNayaritFun.com or Cat@NewEnergyConsciousness.com The Amazing Bryan Savage If you have not had the opportunity to see a Bryan Savage concert you have been missing something very special indeed. Bryan has been playing the saxophone and flute professionally for about 40 years playing with big time musicians and vocalists like Al Stewart (Year of the Cat), The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, The Amazing Rhythm Aces, Bonnit Rait and many, many others. Bryan was also awarded a gold record for his sax solo on Steve Martin’s number-one-selling hit single “King Tut”. He currently plays solo, and with The Banderas Bay Jazz Allstars while here in Mexico. Throughout college he played in bands and felt that playing music was where his biggest interest was. After receiving his BA degree in finance Bryan decided to continue to play and his first CD was self-titled “Bryan Savage” and was released in 1992, which did very well on U.S. radio airplay. In 1996 Bryan was signed by one of the Virgin Records companies with six more CD’s to follow under his name. All of the CD’s have received

tons of airplay in the U.S. as well as internationally, with “Catfood” and “Soul Temptation” doing the best, charting in the top 5 or better. Bryan has created many CD’s with other big names in the music industry and has gone on tour in many countries such as Japan, Germany, England, Scotland, Netherlands and Canada, and of course Mexico! Bryan and his wife Michelle are from my neck of the woods in Colorado; Glenwood Springs, which is located in the Aspen / Roaring Fork Valley. He and Michelle have been coming to Mexico since 1988, first to Cozumel for vacations, and then starting in 2005 to the Puerto Vallarta area. They purchased their second place on the playa in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle in 2010. Their first place was for only a month or so for “get-aways” during the Colorado winters. Now they are both quite happy to escape the cold winters of the Rocky Mountains and stay for 6 months. Life changing events happen to all of us, and for Bryan it was in

2010 that he began not to feel well. They had been spending winters in Naples Florida at that time. Bryan decided to make an appointment with a doctor and cardiologist, who did an electrocardiogram and came out saying, “I’m going to call an ambulance to take you to the hospital”. Bryan told me he did not think he ever had an actual heart attack, but later found out that he was very close to having a fatal one as they found nearly 100% blockage of the heart artery, that the doctors actually call a “widow maker”, as well as a couple of other arteries that were also blocked. Bryan immediately went in for a triple heart bypass open heart surgery. Bryan had always exercised a lot and eaten healthy, which doctors credited for his surviving. They blamed heredity factors on the heart disease. Luckily for all of us folks here around the Banderas Bay and along the Riviera Nayarit, Bryan’s life changing experience led Bryan and his wife Michelle with the decision that it would be more fun to spend winters in Mexico. Bryan stated, “I was planning on being off most of the winters while down here and continue to play the busy playing schedule back in Colorado for the summers, but things have taken off down here, with all the shows and The Banderas Bay Jazz Allstars, as well as shows under my name”. Music is in Bryan’s blood, or could quite possibly BE his blood as he continues to create new original music each year. When he plays solo, Bryan puts on a terrific show with computerized accompaniments he has created which creates a rich full sound, complete with a light show. The Banderas Bay Jazz Allstars are not called the “Allstars’ for nothing! And put on an amazing show with Chas Eller on keyboards,

Jan 29- Feb 4, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Steve York on bass and Lazaro Poey on drums / percussion and Bryan playing alto sax and flute. Bryan also enjoys playing private parties and functions as well and packs the dance floors. You can catch Bryan Savage solo concerts at Breakers Beach Bar for a special Valentine’s Day Sunset Concert in Bucerias, Sonora a la Parrilla on Feb 24th in Bucerias and at Oso’s Oyster Bar every Thursday in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle at the marina, and also plays at Los Arroyos Verdes throughout the season for the Sunday Pool Party they have. The Banderas Bay Jazz Allstars are playing in Sayulita and Zen Garden (a wonderful venue) Friday, January 30th, (their second show there this season!), and Puerto Vallarta at the Red Room on Feb 7th, 20th, March 6th, 20th. They are also playing the 15th Annual San Pancho Music

Festival, which is February 27, 28 and March 1st. They are not yet sure which day they are playing yet as schedules continue to unfold. To find out more or contact Bryan Savage you can check his page out here. http://www.allbucerias.com/business/bryan-savage-music-banderas-bay-entertainment. Thanks for all of the sweet music Bryan Savage! Super Bowl Sunday Fun Being an American, one of the things I LOVE about watching the super bowl is the commercials! Here are a few locations that are putting on a Super Bowl party with food and drink specials. Most will want a reservation, so get on it if you haven’t already done so! LIKE us on our Facebook page to get local updates on events and relevant Mexico news at https:// www.facebook.com/allrivieranayaritfun , gracias!

status or to renew a temporary status. Prior to this policy change proof of self sufficiency was only required for new applications and there was no requirement for original documents or translation. That is still to policy in most jurisdictions. http://jaltembajalapeno. com/jaltemba_bay_forum/new-immigration-rule-t7645.html “ Many posters including professionals who specialize in immigra-

tion suggest that these new enforcements are not in keeping with the current laws and if you should face these challenges, there are specific complaint protocols to be followed. In the past public outcry moved INM to clarify and standardize procedures. More information and changes will likely be forthcoming. Please check back for updated information.

New enforcement of residency visa

regulations in Nayarit

n the past week there has been grumblings online that the Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit Immigration Office has reinterpreted the immigration requirements for those seeking for renewal, change of status or new applications for temporary and permanent status. As is often the case in Mexico different offices and occasionally different people within one office will interpret requirements differently. www.jaltembajalapeno.com

a local’s blog for Jaltemba Bay in Nayarit has an extensive conversation about the recent changes. Here is an excerpt: “All applications for renewal, change of status or new applications for temporary and permanent status processed by the Nuevo Vallarta Immigration Office (INM) require 12 months of original documents to prove financial self-sufficiency. These documents must also be translated into

Spanish within 10 days of notification to the applicant. This could be a big problem for various reasons. Today as I met with Adriana, my accountant, on an unrelated matter she informed me of a change in policy which requires the above mentioned documentation. She was not happy with the change calling it a broken promise because formerly no such documentation was required to move from temporary to permanent

real estate

Buying a Beachfront Property in Puerto Vallarta:

Part 3: Playa Mismaloya, Boca de Tomatlan, Yelapa, Las Animas, Quimixto, and Caletas Fabien Madesclaire and Ariel O’Donnell

Fabien@g3mex.com

If you have real estate questions, or want to know more about beachfront properties, contact Fabien anytime at G3MEX Real Estate Group: 322-209-0832. Or visit us in out new office in Old Town on Calle Amapas, right near the Hotel Emperador.

eachfront properties are a huge draw for investors and renters alike. This week, in part thee of our series, on Buying Beachfront Properties, we take a look at some spots heading southward, down the coast from Puerto Vallarta.

Playa Mismaloya

This underappreciated jewel in the crown of the Bay of Banderas, is a little farther south on Highway 200 from Vallarta, by about 20 minutes. Living out here has a dreamlike quality. A great beach nestled in a calm cove; gorgeous views all around with the Sierra Madres as a backdrop, and beautiful Los Arcos floating out in the Bay. You can almost imagine that you’re basking in Sorrento on the Amalfi coast of Italy. People who live down here, are passionate, and will tell you about the great little eateries; the zoo, (where you can feed the hippo and giraffe!) and the quaint and friendly town. You don’t have all of the action and nightlife of Puerto Vallarta, but this is the perfect paradise getaway. Reasonably priced condos are available directly above the beach, and, for the more intrepid, there are extraordinary villas and condos just up the hill on Lomas De Mismaloya, with mind-blowing views. Vacation rentals are not as brisk out this way, but the people who know it LOVE it!

Boca de Tomatlan

There are houses and villas around Boca, but this area is mostly known for boat and water taxi arrival and embarkation to Yelapa and other spots not easily accessible via car. The villas dotting the hillside, tend to be more rustic. Also, a few vacation rentals and B&Bs can be found, which are fun and offbeat. Beach restaurants offer interesting

people watching, and you’re also at the mouth of the Rio Horcones, with some great hiking opportunities in the area. The trail from Boca de Tomatlan to Las animas is a personal favorite. Be sure to check-out the gorgeous reservations only Ocean Grill about half-way along the trail This is definitely a choice for the visitor who wants a simpler Mexican experience. More isolated but, but still only about 30 minutes from Vallarta.

Yelapa, Las Animas, Quimixto, and Caletas For utter and complete seclusion, Yelapa, and the surrounding little villages are an excellent choice. No traffic, a slower pace and lush vegetation everywhere you turn. Just hang your hammock and dream the island dream. Internet and some modern amenities are available, but you are definitely choosing a more rugged lifestyle. Supplies are all brought by water taxi, so you need to coordinate your week around periodic boat trips back and forth to civilization. Lots of artists, musicians, and spiritual folk choose Yelapa, Las

Animas, Quimixto and Caletas, so the scene is very eclectic. And if you have a chance, the terrific Rythms of the Night evening performance is not to be missed. To find out more, go to: www. vallarta-adventures.com All of these areas are ejidal (part of the indigenous concession) meaning that technically you cannot own the land, though you can apply for a long-term lease. Properties range from a luxurious resort to simple casitas. And for a bit of cool history, the quant getaway of Las Caletas was also home to the famous yet infamous director John Huston. Here’s a segment from one of his letters regarding his Eden at Las Caletas: “Life here is lived in the open. At night wild creatures come down to inspect the changes I've made in their domain: coatimundias, opossums, deer, boars, ocelots, boas, jaguars. We find their spoor or trails in the mornings. Flocks of frenetic parrots come winging in at first light, full of talk. They climb, dive, wheel as one bird, alight in the treetops, all talking. They take off, do another quick turn or two and disappear - talking.”

Jan 29- Feb 4, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

INAPAM: Mexico’s Discount Card for Seniors

ne of the most popular programs that senior citizens enroll for in Mexico is the INAPAM (Instituto Nacional para las Personas Adultas Mayores) discount card. This is offered to all Mexicans and foreign residents who are 60 years of age or older and enables them to enjoy very worthwhile discounts on a whole range of goods and services including food, medicines, transport, clothing, as well as recreation and leisure activities. The program recognizes that retired people living on fixed incomes need financial support to help them keep their costs under control. More and more firms and businesses are actively advertising the fact that they offer discounts to INAPAM card holders, and even those who don’t may well introduce a discount on goods and services you buy if you present your card to them. Many organizations are very pleased to give seniors a discount, and the card is a means to prove your residency and qualification status. Once enrolled, you receive a plastic card that, when presented at thousands of stores, businesses and government service agencies across Mexico, offers you significant discounts of between 10% and 50% on goods and services you buy; and an increasing number of municipalities are also offering discounts on property taxes and water bills. Here are some examples of the services that offer discounts: Healthcare: Many pharmacies give discounts on medications (medicines are already much less expensive in Mexico than the US, and these discounts are in addition to the lower prices Americans enjoy here), and some dentists and doctors and other medical specialists will also give seniors a discount Public Transportation: Bus companies, airlines, and taxi firms offer discounts on fares Food and Groceries: Local food stores, convenience stores, and specialist food emporiums offer discounts on your grocery shopping, saving you more money on your basic living costs Leisure: Many hotels and travel agencies in Mexico offer discounts to senior citizens who

present the card; also recreation parks (like Six Flags Mexico). If you plan a party, many of the party rooms (salon de fiestas) offer a discount on rentals to seniors Eating Out: Many cafes and diners, including the national chains Vips and Toks, offer discounts to INAPAM card holders Culture: Many museums, archaeology parks, art galleries, and bookstores offer discounts to card holders Miscellany: A whole raft of businesses offer seniors a discount when they present their card, for example, legal firms, art & craft stores, car service and repair centers, computer sales and repair stores, clothing and apparel stores, accountants, construction firms, hardware stores, florists, printers, locksmiths, jewellery stores, beauty salons, DIY centers, stationers, plumbers, electricians, dry cleaners, veterinary services, etc. Discount on Property Taxes and Water Bills: Increasing numbers of municipalities are offering seniors a discount on their annual property taxes (Predial) and their water bills. Discounts, where offered, vary by municipality. The card is available to all seniors who are 60 years or older. It’s simple and free to apply for the card. You will need to present some official identification, like a passport or driver’s license, your birth certificate and, as a foreigner; you will also need to present your Temporary or Permanent Residency permit. You will also be asked for a utility bill or some other document that shows your current address in Mexico. You take these documents (as well as 2 photocopies of each) along with three passport-sized photographs of yourself to the local DIF office dealing with INAPAM applications and, when the application is completed, you will be presented with a card that you can use to obtain the discounts. The telephone number in Puerto Vallarta is (322) 225-9936, Extension 163, and the office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 3:00 pm. Original: www.mexperience.com

Old Town Farmers Marke

Treat Yourself to Chantel~Vintage Spoon Jewelry Download 200,000+ brand logos in vector format for free http://www.logoeps.com/

By Erin Staley

raditional Mexican textiles. Handmade musical instruments. Live music. Readyto-eat artisan foods. We have it all waiting for you at our fun-filled, family-friendly, “make it, bake it, grow it” market. That's right, this Saturday you can scoop up farmfresh produce, artisan décor, clothing and accessories. While you're checking out all of the producer-only goodies, be sure to visit Chantel~Vintage Spoon Jewelry. It's a favorite market stop for those looking for gifts, souvenirs and custom work. Meet Chantel Mann, owner of Chantel~Vintage Spoon Jewelry. She works out of her home studio, fabricating her own tools and up-cycling exceptional pieces made from silver and silver plated cutlery. “I started my business six years ago after my dad gave me a spoon ring,” says Mann. “All of my friends wanted one, so I learned how to make them. From there, I started to slowly expand my line.” And boy, what an impressive line of signature pieces: • Rings • Bracelets • Watches • Earrings • Necklaces

• Bud vases • Key chains • Money clips “Once you buy the first piece, you'll be hooked,” says a long-time customer and Dallas resident, C.J. Bredesen. She purchased a hand-selected black pearl and followed it up with a spoon ring and three more bracelets for her sisters. The latest purchase was a sugar spoon necklace stamped with her initials. But Bredesen knows that Chantel~Vintage Spoon Jewelry pieces do not last long. “If you see it, buy it!” she tells would-be customers. Mann also customizes her work. In fact, a large percentage of her

current business comes from crafting personal heirloom silverware into beautifully fashioned sentimental pieces. Rodrigo Ghaêl Montané of Mexico City is one such customer. “When my husband and I decided to get married, we knew our rings must be special and unique,” he says. “The same afternoon Chantel came to our house...we knew it was a lovely sign. Chantel’s jewelry has the ability to give unique pieces with a transcendent meaning.” And now you, too, can treat yourself to Chantel~Vintage Spoon Jewelry. Simply visit her at the market this Saturday or connect with her on Facebook.

(322-182-2144) You can also find Chantel~Vintage Spoon Jewelry at the Mercado Huanacaxtle in La Cruz (Sundays) and the Marina Vallarta market (Thursday nights). Chantel's pieces sold in the following boutiques: • Artisans on Caranza (Old Town Vallarta) • Mata Ortiz Gallery (in the Puerto Vallarta Airport) • CM Boutique (Sayulita) “I have lovely clients from all over the world,” says Mann. “I have a lot of return business, or word-ofmouth business, and I absolutely love what I do. I'm so grateful that I have the opportunity to share my jewelry with the world through the Old Town Farmers Market!” Get to Know the OTFM Ours is a festive “make it, bake it, grow it” North American style

market that celebrates the tradition and culture of Mexico’s outdoor tianguis markets. We are a registered non-profit/association civil organization that focuses on the “buy local” movement as well as entrepreneurial and community development.

You're Invited!

Join us this Saturday from 9:30-2 in Lazaro Cárdenas Park, Old Town. And be sure to save your appetite for the International Food Court (located under shaded pergolas on the eastern side of Lazaro Cárdenas Park). We're cooking up delicious fare: Thai, Indian, traditional Mexican favorites (tacos, empanadas, burritos and green pozole) and vegan dishes, such as hamburgers, al pastor and falafels. The market is open every Saturday from November 1 through April 25. For updates, visit www. oldtownfm.com and “like” us on Facebook.

et - Tianguis Cultural

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

Artisan Bakery 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.

…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.

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

charreada

Charreada: Understanding the Events

charreada is a Mexican rodeo, and in Jalisco it is a very popular professionally recognized sport with strict rules. Both men and women compete, wearing colorful Mexican cowboy costumes trimmed in silver studs. The horsemen show off their lasso ability and dance their horses to live Mariachi, the mood is festive and the level of skill is impressive. Years of training make this event art, sport, and an extension of the culture that is Charreria.

Charro Events

Cala de Caballo (Test of the horse); The charro puts his horse though various commands to demonstrate his ability and the horseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s training. Controlled slide, left and right half, full, and triple turns, dismount and mount, and reverse walk are performed. Piales en Lienzo (Roping of the feet); a horseman must throw a lariat, let a wild mare run through the loop catching it by the hind legs. Three opportunities are given. Points are awarded for distance needed to stop the mare. Colas en el Lienzo, or Coleadero (Arena bull tailing) similar to bull dogging except that the rider does not dismount; the charro rides alongside the left side of the bull, wraps its tail around his right leg, and tries to cause the bull fall and roll as he rides past it. Points are given for technique, time, and roll of the bull. Jineteo de Toro similar to the rodeo event. Bulls are smaller, between 990 and 1320 pounds, and are ridden until they stop bucking. Two hands can be used on the bullrope. Points are given for technique. The charro cannot fall off, he must dismount and land upright. After the charro dismounts the bull he must remove the bullrope and bellrope so the Terna en el Ruedo can follow. Terna en el Ruedo (Team of three); a team roping event in which three charros attempt to rope a bull - one by its neck, one by its hind legs, and the last then ties its feet together. They have a maximum of 10 minutes. Points are awarded for rope tricks and time. Jineteo de Yegua (Bareback on a wild mare); similar to bareback bronc riding. Yegua means mare. A wild mare is ridden with a bullrope. Two hands are used and the legs are held horizontally to the ground. Manganas a Caballo (Roping

from horseback); a charro on horseback has three opportunities to rope a wild mare by its front legs and cause it to fall and roll once. The wild mare is chased around the ring by three mounted charros. Points are awarded for time and rope tricks as long as the horse is roped and brought down. Points for all three attempts are cumulative. Eight minutes are given. El Paso de la Muerte (The pass of death) a charro riding bareback, with reins, attempts to leap from his own horse to the bare back of a wild horse without reins and ride it until it stops

bucking. The most dangerous part of this is if the charro performing the pass falls under three other mounted charros that are chasing the wild mare around the arena ring. This is done backwards at times for show.

Charra event Escaramuza (Skirmish): Since the 1950â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, this breath-taking event adds beauty and elegance to the Charreada. During this event a team of 8-12 women riding sidesaddle and dressed in colorful Adelita dresses perform a variety of precision riding techniques.

Jan 29- Feb 4, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

classified and more...

Jan 29- Feb 4, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Live Music Café Roma Encino 287 Centro Beboteros Diaz Ordaz 565 Malecon Benito’s Paninoteca Bar Nima Bay, Local 12, “Marina Vallarta” El Dorado Pulpito # 102, Playa los Muertos” El Patio de mi Casa Guerrero 311 esq. Matamoros El Rio BBQ Bar elriobbqbar.com Encore Lazaro Cardenas51, Bucerias La Bodeguita Del Medio Paseo Diaz Ordaz 858, Malecon” Murphy’s Irish Pub Morelos 484 Altos 1, Centro Paradise Stage Concerts Pulpito 127 at Olas Altas La Palapa Pulpito#103, Playa los Muertos” Las Adelitas Av. Fluvial Vallarta 234 Nacho Daddy 287 Basilio Badillo Philo’s Delfin15, La Cruz de Huanacaxle” Paradise Stage Paradise Community Center Pulpito 127 Que? Pasa Aquiles Serdan 625, Col Emiliano Zapata The River Café Isla del Rio Cuale Local4

Havre No.111 Col. Versalles Fluent Englis Spoken

This week at Cobblestones: 20% off all blouses and tops and 25% off bathing suits! Hours: Tuesday to Friday 10 to 5 pm Saturday 10 to 2 pm 497 Francisco Madero & Naranjo Emiliano Zapata 044 322 100 1577

Adorable Dog In The Spotlight... Maya by Janice Gonzalez

aya is one of seven puppies rescued along with her mommy Carmen. She is just eight months old and a lovable, cuddly 22 pounds. A Terrier mix, she has that adorable personality that wins over everyone she meets. She is playful and a bundle of joy. Maya has been spayed, is dewormed and completely up to date on her vaccinations. Think Maya is for you? Contact us at spcapv@gmail.com if you are interested.

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