Issue 944, May 7 - 13, 2015

Catch us online @ vallartatribune.com

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Events SUP IN SAYULITA

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May 7 - 13, 2015 Free Issue 944

Tourism NATJA IN TOWN

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Holiday MOTHER’S DAY

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Photo by archive

Stoked on SUP in the Riviera Nayarit

welcome

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Welcome to Puerto Vallarta

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

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

BUSES: A system of urban buses with different routes can bring you from one end of the bay to the other and all the spots in between.

Current fare is $7.50 pesos per ticket and passengers must purchase a new ticket every time they board another bus. There are no “transfers”.

TAXIS: There are set rates within defined zones of town. Do not enter a taxi without agreeing on the price with the driver first. Price is per trip not person.

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 cysandra@gmail.com cisandra@vallartatribune.com

May 7 - 13, 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

PEACEAnimals

By Gretchen DeWitt

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here are many kind, loving and generous individuals helping with rescues and many organizations that try to help and often are able to. With all the sad stories we hear and see, it is always a thrill and surprise to know that there have been so many rescues and adoptions. The rescue groups have Facebook (FB) pages, and these are the best locations to advertise lost/found/rescued/for adoption/wanted for adoption/financial help for sick or injured cats and dogs, etc. These groups are listed on the PEACEAnimals website under the "resource" tab. The focus of PEACEAnimals is to promote the need for spay/neuter. www.peaceanimals.org ADOPCIÓNES VALLARTA Adopt Me PV Adopta un Amigo ADOPTA UN AMIGO NAYARIT Adopta Puerto Vallarta Amigos de los otros animales Animalistas ANIMALISTAS DE PUERTO VALLARTA ANGELICAT AyudaMutt Centro de Acopio Animal Cuidando sus Huelitos Friends of Puerto Vallarta Animals Helping Pets in Puerto Vallarta LADRA Match Dog Com MexPup NO BORDERS ANIMAL RESCUE ORGANIZATION (NOBARS) Paraiso Felino PEACEANIMALS PERROS PERDIDOS PUERTO VALLARTA

Puro Gato PURR PROJECT PV Animal PV Dog News Rescate Animalista Huellitas Catninas

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

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Editor’s

This weeks MUST DO EVENT

Note

4th ISA World SUP & Paddleboard Championship

editor@vallartatribune.com

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or those of us that love Mexico and have made a commitment to be here you know pretty quickly arguing the safety of Mexico on Facebook is an effort in futility. I made the mistake of chiming in on a couple posts after last weekend’s events – personal attacks aside, there are some crazies out there!

A friend asked what was really going on because the news back in Canada was pretty terrifying and I wrote: The escalation is real. And Friday’s events were disconcerting.

But it was pretty clear within a few minutes that the targets were specific, that the perpetrators weren't interested in harming the public and aside from some people running around screaming the sky is falling!!

I didn't feel unsafe or worry too much. In fact, I went dancing on the malecon that night with family that drove in from Tepic for the weekend.

There is violence here that is much uglier than what we tend to see in Canada though not much of that comes to Puerto Vallarta. I used to live across the bridge from Surrey, BC which is and has been for a long time a hot bed of gang violence.

I didn't worry about it then, much like I don’t worry about it now. Would be lovely if we could regulate and legalize the drug trade and take away the extreme violence and add some much need tax dollars into the coffers.

Hopefully it happens in our lifetime. Vallarta remains as safe as ever. Door is open and I have extra space.

What’s going to happen in the coming months, no one can say. I think there are many extenuating circumstances at play here including an upcoming election and a president who is facing the lowest popularity ratings of any Mexican president, ever.

Am I denying anything is happening? Not at all. Am I letting it affect me or change my day to day life?

Not at all. In fact this weekend I’m invited by the tourism office of Tomatlan on a three day trip to tour the area just south of Puerto Vallarta.

One night at a cabin on a lake, another in a small hotel on a secluded beach and I’m driving to all the little towns and points in between.

The only thing I’ll be shooting is my camera and the only fire I’ll be at is around the campfire.

Plenty going on around town.

Mother’s day is Sunday. We have the first ISA SUP Championship here in Mexico, Sayulita, starting this weekend. Lots to see and do – or just grab your nearest beach lounger and a good book.

Put the Facebook away and remember that life is what you make of it.

Madeline

Letters to the Editor Dear Editor,

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e at the International Friendship Home Tours wish to reach out with a huge THANK YOU for our banner 2014-15 season! We truly appreciate all our new and returning clients and all of you who know and value the work we do and continue to refer people our way.

We also send a big thank you to the incredibly generous home owners who volunteer their homes year after year. It was a wonderful and fun season.

We sincerely hope that all of you who visited us (almost 2,000 of you) enjoyed the tours and will be returning to see us again next season.

Because of YOU we have been able to continue our signature work at the IFC with the children and young adults who are benefiting from our Cleft Palate Program.

We've also expanded our Educational Programs and just recently awarded well over $100,000 pesos in grants to various educational institutions.

We also continue our ongoing financial aid to many varied organizations throughout the bay area.

We and our hard working volunteers wish you a wonderful spring, summer and fall and invite you back to join us in our 2015-16 season.

Tours begin November 17th and 18th and continue through the winter. More details on next season's tours available on our website www.ifctoursforvallarta. com. You can also like and follow us on our FaceBook page IFC Tours for Vallarta. Again, with sincere thanks,

Ann Boughn Conrad Kostelecky Hank Muffett Co-Directors IFC Home Tours 2015-16 Season

Dear Editor I am just coming to the end of another excellent vacation in Puerto Vallarta and feel compelled to pass on an event that happened to me upon the first day of arrival.

My good friend Benjamin of

May 7 - 13, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Gilmar Restaurant picked me up at the airport and took me to Costco to purchase our staples for the duration.

I had and envelope with the joint weeks budget for my friend and I, which I took out to pay at the till. In the confusion of loading the groceries into the cart, the envelope was left on the counter.

After we had been delivered to our condo and were putting the groceries away, I realized my error.

I immediately contacted Benjamin to ask what could be done.

He phoned to Costco, explained the situation and after a short wait was told that the envelope was there and we could pick it up at any time.

They were unable to tell us who was kind enough to turn it in, but all money was accounted for.

This is the only way we could think of to pass on a big thank you to the kind people involved.

Another wonderful experience in paradise.

Callum Stuart British Columbia

Sayulita will play host to the most important competition in the world of StandUp Paddle & Paddleboard from May 10-17, organized by the International Surfing Association (ISA); now in its fourth year, this is the first time ever the World SUP & Paddleboard Championship will be held in Mexico.

A total of 32 countries will participate, led by three-time-champion, Australia and including the United States, South Africa, Spain and France; together with the host country of Mexico, these are the favorites to occupy the winner’s circle.

On an interesting side note, the Mexican team is comprised mainly of surfers and paddlers that hail from Nayarit. Captain Fernando

Stalla, who is currently #18 worldwide as an SUP Racer, and Javier “Bicho” Jiménez, who ranks at #20, both lead the team. Their trainer, Ryan Helm, is currently ranked #28, all of which indicates that another medal is well within the realm of possibilities.

The different disciplines include SUP Surfing, SUP Racing Technical, SUP Racing Distance, Paddleboard Racing Technical and Distance and a special Team Paddle Relay event.

Teams will be made up of 8 men and 5 women, plus 5 alternates.

Each competitor can participate in a maximum of three disciplines.

The activities will begin at 8 a.m. and end at 5 p.m.

SPCA of Puerto Vallarta

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e had a great finale today at the Farmers Market with lots of generous donations!

From our Canadian friend, Christine Patterson in Edmonton we received $3,000 pesos, the proceeds from a card night. Amy Ruf from California, donated $500 pesos. (You’ll see Amy’s dog in the calendar next year!)

Rita Leone donated two lovely dog beds and Gisela Araceli Arizmendi donated a large dog bed, a medium crate as well as brushes, coats, blankets and leashes. Gisela misses her little dog very much.

Donations totaled $4,300pesos and $67US. Thank you so much everyone.

Sales of bottle cozies went well again as it’s hotter than ever! We’re ready to stock up for next season.

We finished with a closing party with the vendors. Thanks to all who contributed the fabulous food, drinks and entertainment.

We’ll be back on the first Saturday in November.

Thanks to intrepid volunteers Michelle & Mark. Have a wonderful summer!” And thanks for this report Lynnette.

To see our 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.

Janice Gonzalez To make donations via PayPal, select the “Donate” option on our Facebook page www.facebook. com/spcapv or on our website at http://spcapv.com/donate/.

If you would like to make a donation other than money to the SPCA, here is a list of items we can ALWAYS use: Kong’s or very hard rubber chew toys (we cannot use soft plastic toys anymore due to ingestion worries); Chuck it balls ... hard rubber; stuffed toys for puppies; BLUE BAG Costco dog food salmon – ONLY; all natural dog treats; towels, blankets, Lysol, powdered laundry detergent; office supplies such as paper, pens, clip boards, scissors, plastic cups for water for our staff and volunteers.

Right now we have a serious need for puppy food. We are pretty overwhelmed with puppies at the sanctuary.

You can come and spend a rewarding afternoon cuddling the animals at Puerto Vallarta’s SPCA Sanctuary. We have scheduled tours each week and vehicle space is limited. We also have tours from Nuevo Vallarta. Contact Nicole Martin at nicole@cupocity.com to make a reservation.

Get involved…rescue, adopt, foster, volunteer, donate or educate.

Contact us at spcapv@gmail.com.

You can learn more about the SPCA Puerto Vallarta by checking us out at www.spcapv.com/home or on Facebook.

news

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May 7 - 13, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Mexican Government to Use Central Bank Surplus for 2016 Infrastructure Projects

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he Bank of Mexico posted an operating surplus of 31.45 billion pesos (about $2.05 billion) for fiscal year 2014, and the government plans to invest these funds in infrastructure projects, the Finance and Public Credit Secretariat said.

The central bank transferred the surplus confirmed in the audited fiscal year 2014 financial statements to the federal government, the secretariat said in a statement.

The funds will be invested in the development of “infrastructure programs and projects in an environment of low oil prices,” the secretariat said.

In January, the government said it would cut spending by 124.3 billion pesos (about $8.08 billion), or 0.70 percent of the gross

domestic product (GDP), this year to compensate for the plunge in oil prices. The plans additional spending cuts totalling 135 billion pesos ($8.9 billion), or 4.3 percent of the federal budget, in 2016, the secretariat said.

The Mexican export crude-oil blend has been trading at between $45 and $50 per barrel, down from

the average of $100 in the first half of 2014.

Oil exports are one of the main sources of revenue for the Mexican Treasury.

Mexico’s economy grew by 2.1 percent in 2014, up from the 1.4 percent rate registered in the prior year but well below the official target of 3.9 percent.

066 will be the sole emergency number

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in Torreón, Coahuila, should be thankful to 066 operators. Their victim called the number and waited 40 minutes for an answer.

After the thieves took 10 envelopes containing close to 200,000 pesos (US $13,000), they quickly hopped into a getaway car. But they needn’t have worried: they had time to spare given the 066 delay.

In Tampico, a woman named Esther stepped outside her home to make a phone call one evening when an unknown assailant grabbed her, punched her in the stomach and threatened rape.

Upon hearing her cries, two

Gov’t entrusted to protect World Heritage sites

By Pedro Montes De Oca

But work needs to be done to improve the existing service he Chamber of Deputies has approved legislation that will make 066 the official, nationwide emergency number for civil protection, emergency response and denunciations. But there is some work to be done if the service is to function better than it has.

Deputies approved the amendment to the National Public Safety System Law with 362 votes in favor and four abstentions, giving the National Center for Crime Prevention and Citizen Participation the responsibility to promote the service among federal, state and municipal governments.

A single number to call for all emergencies was one of 10 measures presented last November by President Peña Nieto in response to the Iguala tragedy.

At the time it had been intended to adopt 911, the number used in the United States and Canada. The reason for staying with 066 has not been reported, but perhaps it’s because the number is already well known.

However, it’s not always well operated. Two thieves who robbed a recycling business last Saturday

UN registers 9 cultural zones

neighbors pursued the assailant, who took off on foot, while one called 066. The operator calmly asked a series of questions for five minutes. An hour later, state police showed up.

When asked why they took so long, police said the emergency responder had only just passed along the call, and recommended calling the police station instead.

“You called 066? They always call us too late. What you need to do is call us directly, at the moment that you need us. We will come instantly and leave the questions for after.”

Source: Milenio (sp) Original: Mexico Daily News

NESCO included nine Mexican archaeological zones as part of its International Register of Cultural Property for World Heritage sites.

The Foreign Relations Secretariat reported that the sites are the ruins at Palenque in Chiapas; the prehispanic city of Teotihuacán in the State of Mexico; the archaeological zone of Monte Albán in Oaxaca, the prehispanic city of Chichén Itzá in Yucatán; the prehispanic city of El Tajín in Veracruz; the precolombian city of Uxmal and its three towns of Kabah, Sayil and Labná in Yucatán; the archaeological zone of Paquimé in Chihuahua; the archaeological monuments in Xochicalco, Morelos and the ancient Maya city of Calakmul in Campeche.

The designated areas are now under protection of the “special protected areas” as defined by the Protection of Cultural Property in the Event of Armed Conflict, which was ratified by Mexico in 1956, the secretariat reported.

The agreement not only forces

the government to protect the areas but also requires a commitment on the part of the federal government to diffuse and promote the cultural heritage worldwide.

At the end of 2013, the SRE and the National Institute of History and Anthropology, National Statistics, Geography, and Information Institute (INEGI) initiated the process to have the sites included in the register and reported to have consistently and continuously followed up to ensure that they were approved, thereby granting them the protection, conservation and promotion for generations to come.

National authorities are now obligated to provide special protection for these areas.

This includes the development of emergency plans in case of natural disasters or manmade problems, the prevention and the mitigation of deterioration to the sites, the transportation of valuable artifacts to safe places as well as the criminal prosecution of looting or theft of cultural artifacts from the areas. The inclusion of the sites in the registry also binds the Mexican federal government to maintain open and close ties with the various cultural commissions within UNESCO. Original: The News

Vallarta Shopping Directory and events www.puertovallartadining-shopping.com

Marsol Friday Summer Market

Sanctuary by the Sea

home for sale

3 level oceanfront home just south of Mismaloya Waiting the final touches to become your dream home Contact Lisa Wallace www.VillaMizpah.com

Local: 322-228-0128 US: 401-608-2600

SACRIFICE PRICE

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ur first Marsol Summer Market on May 1 was very well attended and complemented for having such a great selection of products available all summer for our local residents and visitors. In addition to many of our regular vendors who have been with us all winter, lots of new merchants joined us from several other area markets who have closed for the summer.

You will find several types of homemade bread, bagels, cinnamon rolls, fine pastries, organic vegetables, quiche, shepherd pies, gluten free products, corn flan, cheese, special condiments, sprouts, bags of coffee, sausage, hummus, Italian products and salsas, coconut oil products, empanadas, cool fruit drinks and refrescos,

1 Studio week Villa del Palmar PV-Nuevo-Cabo-Loreto-Cancun 2 free pre-paid weeks $4,500 USD firm gingercarp@yahoo.com smoked meat and fish, honey, a variety of pickles, beets, nuts and dried fruit.

The selection of jewelry is awesome with all styles and types of creations in sterling silver with natural stones, beads, and other metals. You will find beachwear, hand painted clothing, T shirts, Oaxaca textiles, original art, cards, masks, sculptures, accessories, bird feeders, handmade leather goods, handbags, cooling ties, aprons, fused and blown glass, free optical exams, decoration services, tours, maps, books, unique handicrafts, essential oils, and medicinal herbs.

This is a great place for our vendors to promote their businesses and where their clients can find them every Friday from 9:30am to 1:30pm all summer. Many of our members of the Vallarta Shopping

Directory have tables here in addition to their stores and restaurants.

Be sure to check the listings on the online shopping directory at www.puertovallartadining-shopping.com where you will find 20 categories of local businesses.

We welcome all residents and prospective vendors to join us on Friday, May 8th from 9:30 to 1:30, at the Marsol Hotel by the pier on Los Muertos beach.

We are planning a special event on Wednesday, May 20 from noon to 6 p.m. at the Marsol Hotel pool and lobby entitled SUMMER SPLASH, which will feature food from local restaurants and vendors, an art exposition by local artists, artisan and jewelry booths, live music and raffles of gifts from local businesses and restaurants. Put it on your calendar now.

The 2015 May Restaurant Festival

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or the eighth year, Gary R. Beck, local foodie and a local restaurant guide book author will be organizing small parties to attend a fine restaurant nightly for anyone in town who wishes to meet some locals and visitors plus enjoy good food at discount prices.

All dinners start at 7:00pm, please arrive beforehand.

Monday, May 18 Trio Tuesday, May 19 River Cafe

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

Wed, May 20 Hacienda San Angel Thursday, May 21 Cafe des Artistes Friday, May 22 Kaiser Maximilian Saturday, May 23 Fusion Gourmet Sunday, May 24 Bravos Monday, May 25 El Arrayan Tuesday, May 26 Layla's Thursday, May 28 Archie's Wok Saturday, May 30 Taste RSVP: The restaurant and number of people in your party.

Gary R.Beck garyrbeck1@yahoo.com

local

06

Wellness

My Life

Latina

in Vallarta

By Marcella Castellanos info@wellnesslatina.com

By Lois Ellison loell87@yahoo.com

My mission as a bilingual Certified Holistic Health Coach is to empower you to spice up your vitality with health and wellness workshops and programs by incorporating whole, sustainable, plant-based foods and natural healthcare with essential oils. For my blog or a list of my upcoming programs and workshops, and for your free natural healthcare e-book visit www.wellnesslatina.com.

Feline Fliers

Is your stress hormone fired up?

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his weekend wasn't dull to say the least as some unpredictable events unfolded: an outbreak of drug-gang related violence with reports of banks, gas stations, and other buildings being set on fire in the states of Jalisco and Colima with only buildings being targeted, not people, according to latest reports. It was unnerving and scary as we teetered between wanting to 'flee' to the safety of our mothers even though we're all grown-up (well, most of us like to think we are), and being rational adults and waiting for the facts. It is those moments of not having any control over events that our body goes into 'fight or flight' mode.

When in this state, cortisol , also known as " the stress hormone" is released into the bloodstream and is responsible for several stress-induced changes in the body such as: blood sugar imbalance and diabetes, gastrointestinal problems, weight gain and obesity, lowered immunity, and much more if we don't find ways to manage what may become chronic stress.

Small increases of cortisol have some positive effects such as quick bursts of energy, increased memory functions, lower sensitivity to pain, increased immunity, and maintaining homeostasis.

Who cares about all of that when you're all fired up! But there are constructive ways to manage your response to events that are out of your control: 1) Keep things in perspective.

Sometimes it's important to get the whole story. Wait for the facts.

2) Breathe. Being conscious of breath keeps oxygen flowing to the brain which keeps you alert and relaxed.

3) Don't stop living. Keep

doing the things you enjoy within reason. Of course if authorities tell you to stay away from a certain area, you don't want to play dumb, but there are many other places you can go.

4) Connect and vent. Talk it out with your loved ones and focus on the positive. Everything is energy.

So if you want to maintain a state of peace, be peaceful, talk peace. And if need to express frustration, let-a-rip, don't keep it bottled up inside!

5) Meditate: Close your eyes, quiet your mind by focusing on breath or surround yourself with nature sounds. Let yourself connect with that 'force' that you cannot see. It will help clear and calm your perspective.

6) Dance. Dancing is one of the activities that allows you to move freely as an expression of vitality and creativity. Or just being able to walk, run, move your body freely in any way is one of the best expressions I know to celebrate life! Movement allows for a higher quality of life and ability to enjoy more.

With all that said, is there really such a thing as a 'safe' place? Let's face it, none of us know when our time is up, Mother Nature always seems to remind us otherwise, so we might as well enjoy the ride!

May 7 - 13, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

I

f you have ever had to move a cat, this is dedicated to you. It is a true story but the names have been changed on general principles Recently our neighbors, George and Linda, needed to make an unanticipated trip to San Francisco.

Because it happened so suddenly and it was unclear how long they would be gone, they had to leave behind their two beloved cats, Lalo and Lucy.

Two weeks have gone by and, along with another neighbor Gina, we’ve been doing just fine with feeding and general care of the kitties. Now Sarah is here too and she has been great with coaxing them out for a dose of TLC. George had planned to return home and retrieve them, but then, in a moment of madness, Sarah agreed to take the lonely kitties with her to San Francisco and reunite them with their “parents”.

With only seventy-two hours to prepare for the journey, everything shifts into high gear. Gina and Sarah arrange for shots and letters from the vet. Sarah tracks down some cat carriers that are in compliance with airline regulations, and lines them with absorbent material (another of the many requirements of the airline).

Now it is D-Day. The four adults gather at the apartment. We have one hour the make the capture and head to the airport. The normally shy Lalo meanders around suspiciously but Lucy, no doubt sensing danger, has gone into hiding.

After about twenty minutes of stealthy maneuvering, Gina makes a successful grab for Lalo. Approaching the carrier, he goes into full-on panic mode. As he extends all four legs forcefully, it is touch and go to get him through the door but Gina lunges forward and slams the door behind him. When she steps back from the carrier, a few drops of sweat appear on her brow and a broad smile lights her face.

Within a matter of seconds, Lalo totally shreds the absorbent

material and lets out the most dreadful caterwaul conceivable.

Although we can’t see Lucy, it’s easy to imagine this doesn’t sit well with her.

With the clock is ticking it’s time to get serious. Gina and my husband close the bedroom doors and set out to get Lucy. Why isn’t she on the bed? After all, it’s where she spends most of her time when she isn’t eating. From my spot in the living room, I can hear Lalo loud and clear. At the same time, from behind the bedroom door, I hear coaxing sounds alternating with cursing, laughing and patches of silence.

Suddenly my husband emerges from the bedroom, blood oozing from his elbow, hand and knee.

With all four legs flailing and fur flying, Lucy had materialized from hiding to express her displeasure in the only way she knows how.

Now she is securely wedged in a microscopic space between the back of the bathroom cabinet and the wall.

Several fruitless methods are employed to dislodge her, including running the vacuum close by.

In desperation, Sarah tries to get George on the phone, hoping his voice will soothe Lucy so she can be subdued. But George cannot be reached so my husband retrieves our shop vac and sends a stream of air in Lucy’s direction. Out she flies, only to be captured in a towel and delivered triumphantly into the waiting carrier.

At last, we are on the way to the

airport.

One more hurdle awaits us.

Check-in. Here all the requirements must be met or it’s back to square one. Our hearts beat collectively as Sarah politely answers all the questions and signs a myriad of forms. The four of us clog the First Class line with the two yowling cats and luggage for what seems like an eternity, getting the evil eye from other not so patient passengers.

When the last plastic ties are affixed to the carriers and the final stickers are in place. The airline employee asks Sarah if she wants to say goodbye to the kitties now or would she like to spend the next hour visiting with them before boarding. Instead of screaming “NO WAY”, we enjoy a good laugh and bid goodbye to Lalo and Lucy.

Sarah heads for security and the rest of us head home for a wellearned siesta.

local

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May 7 - 13, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Paradise

and Parenting

PV Magnet

Leza Warkentin mommyinmexico.wordpress.com

Celebrating the Mothers of Mexico

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have always loved Mother’s Day in Mexico, even before I became a mother myself. It is a genuine fiesta, celebrated with passion and authenticity, virtually untainted by the aggressive advertising of greeting card giants and telephone companies. People here celebrate their mothers because they want to, not because they are sent on a calculated, nationwide guilt trip if they don’t.

One of the reasons for this is that Mexican mothers are awesome, and everyone knows it. Mexican mothers inspire a great deal of love and loyalty in their own children.

Just ask a Mexican adult about his beloved mamá. It’s a beautiful thing to realize that a child’s adoration for his mother can be remain over the course of a lifetime.

I grudgingly admit that, while I may be the mother of two Mexicans, I will never be a true Mexican mother. Not only is my citizenship process not going anywhere (mostly because I haven’t actually applied), but I lack the necessary skills and experience to be that incredible.

My husband will tell you otherwise because he is lovely and also because he has to live with me every day for the rest of his life.

But if I look at the list of pre-requisites, I know that I could never live up to them.

For example, these ladies can cook. Orale, can they cook. While I certainly use chiles guajillos in my cooking more often than I used to, I will never be able to throw together the deliciousness of which my mother-in-law (rest her soul) was capable. The chilaquiles, the guisados and the rice (how come the guera can’t master RICE?): I just can’t compete. It’s lucky for me I had decent legs, because my recipe for cheese sauce in macaroni was almost completely useless when trying to win over my husband. The man grew up with mole sauce that contained

about forty-seven ingredients, all of which were slow-roasted and pounded by hand in a molcajete.

What it boils down to is that Mexican mothers probably have superpowers. Anyone who can flip tortillas on a hot comal with her bare hands without permanent scarring must be somewhat more than a mere mortal (I am definitely mortal).

Plus, I have heard of a discipline method known only to Mexican mothers called “La Chancla” (The Sandal). According to several of my nostalgic Mexican friends, if you cannot manage your children using your footwear not unlike Captain American wielding his shield, you are not a Mexican mother.

And I am always amazed at how Mexican mothers manage to mold their children, starting from the time they are able to hold up their wobbly little heads, into polite, hand-shaking, cheek-kissing model citizens.

When mine were little, they wouldn’t speak to their own teachers until May of every school year.

But what I most admire in a whole nation of strong, fiercely loving Mexican mothers are the people they have raised. Their love, their determination, their patient teaching of values from the first days of life have undoubtedly created the persevering, hopeful, generous people that surround me every day of my life in Mexico.

If there’s just one way I can be a Mexican mother, let it be this: in the bad times, in the worst times, my children may get knocked down.

They may be afraid. Actually, they may be terrified. But the children of a Mexican mother don’t stay down.

They stand up. They brush themselves off. They gather the helpless in their arms. And then they keep going. Because they were raised by a mother who never gave up, a mother who gathered them up in her arms when they were helpless.

I wish a Happy Mother’s Day to all of Mexico’s superhero mothers, who have planted the seeds of hope, love and peace into a nation of hearts. We are sure to win the day.

by Virginia Fox v@vcfox.net Virginia Fox is a storyteller, writer, actor, promoter and owner of Wild Side Productions in Puerto Vallarta and Chicago, She’s a member of the PV Writer’s group and is working on a story collection, “Moon Lady’s Wild Rides.”

O

MG! I’ve re-entered Chicago after six glorious months in Vallarta, not exactly kicking and screaming, but not without the stress of leaving sun and sand and leisure, to address bills, family issues and realities.

First of all, the chill. It may be Spring, but the only things that are crazy enough to “come out” at this time are the flowers who burst through the soil in spite of Arctic temperatures. I cover my head in a black wool cap and wrap a red wool scarf around my neck. I button up my full length leather coat that covers layers of clothes to shield me from the bitter winds. This is far worse than needing extra naps and air conditioning to combat intense humidity and heat. It’s brutal and takes me weeks to readjust.

I find myself gravitating to anyone or anything that’s Mexican, like a deep-sea diver searching for air at the end of a deep dive. Shopping at Jewel, a major Chicago supermarket, I stop at the fish section.

“Is the salmon fresh?“ I ask.

“Oh yes,” the smiling guy with ” Juan” on his name tag says. After placing my order I hear myself asking: “Are you from Mexico?”

“My family is from Guerrero,” Juan says. “Do you know where that is?” he asks. I shamelessly expose my need to validate myself with my new amigo. “ I live six months in Puerto Vallarta.” I say like flashing a badge of honor. “Is it safe there?” he asks. “Oh yes,” I answer.“Nothing bad happening anywhere near.”

A day later and I’m reeling from the shock of media reports on the recent drug cartel attacks in Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara. Scared as I was that we might lose our “Paradise,” I frantically exchange emails with my friends still in the area, some year round residents.

“Stay safe,” I say. “Don’t go out.”

Within twelve hours, I realize the media has again overblown the situation, the incidents were carefully targeted at police and cartel members, though the attacks were real and undeniable. Friends’ safety is foremost on my mind, along with a message I desperately want to reach international travel reporters: “Please don’t destroy our reputation as a great destination for tourists. The cruise ships filling our marinas don’t need to go elsewhere. We continue to offer the best resident and tourist attractions of any Mexican destination you can find. Don’t lump P.V. in with other volatile locations.

But I’m still in shock from the reports. I’m also convinced our “ Vallarta bubble” is not bursting.

Too many of us are thriving in the magic of our beachfront paradise as part time or full time residents Nowhere else can you find the theatre, restaurants, entertainment, environmental beauty, and outdoor activities under sunny skies and glorious temperatures.

No one has the right to interfere with the hundreds of 2 businesses and workers who make a living off of a healthy tourist trade, a fragile industry which we know can turn away at any season.

After a fitful night full of frightening images, I awaken and turn on the TV the next morning. I’m hoping I don’t see the drug cartel violence as a segment on the news. I don’t have to worry!

The “top news stories” on Chicago’s major stations are the twelve murders in Chicago the night before, the riots in New York, Missouri, Baltimore, Seattle and many other places. The violence from protestors and police extends far beyond their intended targets.

The damage includes destruction of privately owned businesses, innocent bystanders and police attempting to keep the peace.

There is far more impact on neighborhoods and innocents than any specifically targeted cartel attack.

Just look at the victims from Sandy Hook and other school shootings, the work of a lone psychotic.

We’re living in the Age of Violence. We as a society are changing. Or are we? Having just seen “Selma”, and other historical films, along with the brutality every day on our U,S. streets, I can’t help but draw parallels to the history of violence and wars around the world in the past as well as present.

Religious, racial and turf wars triggering murders, destruction and chaos.

I want to have something to blame, something than can be easily changed, like violent video games and films where heros are villians, human lives are sacrificed without regret. I have no answers, and I don’t want to live in fear in Chicago or anywhere. What I can do is put my energy on positive outcomes and gratitude for all that’s good. Turning around misconceptions. I can focus on the love for one another that blooms in Mexico’s land of may colors and cultures. The peaceful harmonic integration of lifestyles we pride ourselves on embracing in Puerto Vallarta. The magic of Mexico that draws us to this unique destination like a magical magnet.

Eduardo, a helpful attendant in our parking garage opens my passenger car door. “Are you from Mexico? “ I ask. “Yes,” he answers with pride.

“We live in Puerto Vallarta six months a year,” I say. “My family is in Chicago now,” he says. “My grandparents are in Michoacaon,” he adds.

“I love your country,” I confide. “ The people are so friendly. The weather so perfect.” He nods. “I’m glad I work here, “ he says, “but I miss my country.”

Eduardo helps me into my car.

We don’t say what we’re thinking, but we both know what we hope for.

One day, all people living in peace.

Not afraid to go out. Human lives valued over competition for turf , money and power.

3 “Stay safe,” Eduardo and I say to each other. “Stay safe, “ I say to my P V friends. “Is it really safe in Mexico?” my friends continue to ask me. “Yes, “I reply, walking away counting the months until we return to the magic. “Viva Vallarta!” “Viva Mexico!” .

Flower of the week

Ruellia Ruelia (Spanish) Ruellia tuberosa

M

exican Petunia, Fever Root. Ruellias are popular ornamental small shrubs often growing wild in warm climates. They have striking funnel-shaped violet flowers and thick tuberous roots that are easily used for propagation. Some are considered poisonous although folk and Ayurvedic medicine recognize their medicinal qualities including use as a diuretic, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, anti-hypertensive and a protection for the stomach. It is used also as a natural textile dye. Leaves are food for caterpillars; flowers attract butterflies. This plant is one of over 200 found in Sandra’s color-coded guidebook, Tropical Plants and Walks of Puerto Vallarta. Available at Page in the Sun Bookstore, and from Sandra at the Marsol Farmer’s Market on Fridays. Information on her many area walks can be found at: www.escaperoutevallarta.com.

events

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Events Calendar Would you like to promote your event across Banderas Bay to over 6,000 weekly readers? Non-profit and charity events receive complimentary listings. Maximum 50 words. Contact Editor@vallartatribune.com deadline is Tuesday noon.

EACH WEEK Puerto Vallarta Tourism offers free tours in Downtown Puerto Vallarta Tuesdays and Wednesdays 9:00AM and 12:00PM Saturdays 9:00AM. The local tourism office offers a free sightseeing tour of downtown Puerto Vallarta. Staff will take you off on a fabulous walking tour of the streets and legendary locations in the center area of Puerto Vallarta Tours start at the Tourism Office at City Hall. For more information call 222-0923.

ArtWalk in Puerto Vallarta’s Centro Wednesdays from 6PM to 10PM A self-guided tour of downtown galleries, art lovers can explore the streets of Centro stopping into select galleries for cocktail exhibitions every Wednesday evening from 6-10pm through May 27, 2015.

Gentle Yoga on Saturday mornings at IFC 9:30 - 10:30, every Saturday through June (subject to further change or extension) Instructor: Adriana Bedolla Donation (minimum $50 pesos) supports charity Events Dia de la Madre - Mother’s Day Nationwide, May 10 Mother’s Day is always celebrated on May 10th in Mexico, regardless of the day of the week (unlike in the U.S. where it is celebrated on the second Sunday in May). Mothers are held in very high esteem in Mexican culture and on this day they are celebrated in style. The day may start off with serenades of Las Mañanitas, schools have festivals in honor of the mothers of students and restaurants are packed as moms take the day off from household tasks and are treated to a meal out with their families.

“Estampas de México” brings the culture and traditions of the sister states of Mexico to Puerto Vallarta. Enjoy this Mexican Party every Thursday at Hidalgo Park downtown.

May 7th: Xiutla May 14th: Ballet de la Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León May 21th: Vallarta Azteca May 28th: Yucatán The event is free to attend and there are food vendors and artisans with items to purchase.

For more information: www.facebook.com/estampasdemexicopv Restaurant Week (May 15- 31) This culinary celebration is a community event where over 30 restaurants from the Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta come together to create a specially approved prix fixe menu during the entire two weeks in order to extend the region’s high season and promote its many amazing gastronomical delights.

May 7 - 13, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

NATJA Travel Writers in town

By Barbara Peters

P

uerto Vallarta rolled out the welcome mat for the North American Travel Journalists Association (NATJA), as the city plays host to their annual conference from May 4-9, 2015. More than 150 participants from the US and Canada who specialize in travel journalism are attending, putting the spotlight squarely on Puerto Vallarta and highlighting the many activities, sights, world class restaurants, shops, and hotels offered here.

Being chosen to host the NATJA conference has been a three year effort on the part of the Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board, and marks the first time the conference will be held outside of the US and Canada; making this a huge win for Vallarta and a historically significant occasion for the NATJA. This event is important for Puerto Vallarta's world-

wide image as a safe and fun tourist destination because of the great influence of these contributing journalists and their respective backgrounds, interests, and related contacts.

The tourism board is pulling out all stops to make this a fabulous time for all involved, from hotel upgrades to complimentary tours and even a deep cleaning of the Malecon's walkways and statues, in order to put Vallarta's best face forward.

The cost of hosting this event has so far been estimated at approximately three million pesos, but it is expected that the charm and natural beauty for which Puerto Vallarta is known will go a long way toward a huge return on investment, as these professionals begin writing about their experiences in Vallarta and then disseminating their work to various social media and journalism platforms both on the web and in print.

Making plans for May? Plenty going on in Riviera Nayarit Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross (May 3) May 3rd, the Feast of the Cross, brings to a close an entire week of Patron Saint Festivities in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle. During this time, the community celebrates cultural, sports, artistic and religious events.

Capital—is the place to be. Mexico’s SUP Team has already participated in three previous championships and is mostly comprised of paddlers and surfers hailing from the Riviera Nayarit.http://www.isasurf. org/events/isa-world-supand-paddleboard-championship-wsuppc/

ISA World SUP & Paddleboard Championship (May 10-17) The ISA World SUP & Paddleboard Championship is set to take place in Mexico for the very first time in 2015, and Sayulita—Mexico’s SUP Mecca and the Riviera Nayarit’s Surf

Restaurant Week (May 15- 31) This culinary celebration is a community event where over 30 restaurants from the Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta come together to create a specially approved prix fixe menu during the entire

two weeks in order to extend the region’s high season and promote its many amazing gastronomical delights. Find the menus at vallartatribune.com Riviera Nayarit Wind Festival (May 22-24) Bucerías, the Wind Capital of the Riviera Nayarit, is the ideal stage for kite surfing and other aquatic sports fueled by the ocean breeze; small wonder that approximately 200 national and international competitors are expected to flock to the Wind Festival. thekitezone.com/

The Puerto Vallarta Men’s Chorus Presents “Sequins & Diamonds”

G

et ready to put on your “sequins and diamonds” or just your “sandals and denim” as the Puerto Vallarta Men’s Chorus presents its Vallarta Pride Festival Concert Series “Sequins & Diamonds” at Act II Stages on Monday, May 18, at 7:00 P.M. and twice on the evening of Friday, May 22 at 7:00 P.M. and 9:00 P.M. This 4th annual PVMC pride concert series promises to be one of the Festival’s highlights as the whole region joins in celebrating PV’s vibrant and diverse LGBTQ community!

This year’s PVMC Pride Festival concerts will feature some of the region’s finest male voices under the direction of Artistic Director Alfonso López. The program’s selections reflect the theme of the festival, “Unity”, with a diverse array of songs performed in Spanish and English.

In addition to being a Pride Festival sponsor,

PVMC’s multi-national “Pride” shines as bright as a diamond all year through its commitment to being a year round chorus and through its partnering with many local non-profits to build bridges of understanding to our diverse community and other organizations through our music. Working with organizations like the PuRR Project, the Bucerías Children’s Library, Pride Festival, SETAC and Bugambilia Festival, PVMC has brought its inspiring message of love and understanding through quality choral music performed in Spanish and English to diverse audiences of all ages and backgrounds.

Come see Mexico’s first gay men’s chorus as Director López wraps up his critically acclaimed first season with the Chorus. You’ll be proud you did!

For more information, contact info@pvmenschorus.org or visit www.pvmenschorus.org.

riviera nayarit

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May 7 - 13, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Stoked on SUP in the Riviera Nayarit

By Gabriel Jones

Fun on the

T

he Riviera Nayarit and the Bahía de Banderas are home to great destinations like Puerto and Nuevo Vallarta, Bucerías, Punta de Mita and Sayulita and this area is now the hotbed for SUP (Stand Up Paddleboarding) in Mexico.

SUP is perhaps the fastest growing water sport in the world.

It is accomplished by standing feet-square and shoulder-width apart on an oversized surfboard and then propelling yourself over the water with a long, canoe-like paddle. In addition to being addictively fun, much of the popularity is due to SUP’S versatility. Unlike surfing, where wave conditions can make or break your day, you can SUP in almost every condition the ocean can throw at you, from riding waves - both big and small, paddling on open ocean or calmer bays, and now increasingly, on inland lakes, rivers and even light rapids.

This has enthusiasts, young and old, from Saskatoon to Sayulita, stoked on SUP. As popularity of the sport and the many different ways to enjoy SUP expands, so does the variety of board shapes and sizes being offered. Like cross-country vs. downhill skis; in SUP, longer, narrower boards (up to fourteen ft long) are better suited for gliding across flat water and shorter boards (as short as seven ft) are best for manoeuvring on waves.

Wider, thicker boards offer better stability for beginners and can float heavier weights.

These are also perfect for bigger boned riders or those looking to bring along extra weight like kids, dogs or even camping gear. Further pushing the boundaries of SUP, there are now fitness boards that come equipped with extra padding and tie downs for resistance bands, to perform yoga and Pilates while balancing on the water, and oversized, super-stable boards with mounts for your fishing rod and tie downs for your catch.

Regardless of the application you choose, SUP will always involve using your core stabilizer muscles to balance, and every other muscle to paddle, making it a truly amazing full-body workout.

For this reason it has become the new favourite cross-training sport for personal trainers of the stars, who are looking for the perfect body, and for professional athletes seeking that extra edge

Riviera Nayarit

By Cat Morgan

www.rivieranayaritfun.com

on the competition. Perhaps the most important component of any fitness regimen is that SUP is really enjoyable and ensures not only large doses of exercise but also fresh air and fun. Despite being a great workout, SUP is easy to learn. You first start on your knees and then work towards standing.

Most beginners pick up the basics quickly and find themselves standing and paddling in the first hour.

Now with SUP shops popping up all across Canada, you can practice the sport practically anywhere that has some (unfrozen) water and then apply those skills while on your next Mexican beach vacation.

Sayulita has one of the most consistent surf breaks in the area and one of the best surf cultures in all of Mexico. Sayulita will always be a surf town first but it has also totally embraced SUP with many of the local surfers competing nationally and internationally in SUP. Sayulita is the perfect place to rent a paddle board and take a lesson or even check out a pro-competition, like the annual Punta Sayulita Longboard and SUP Classic (March 8-10th, 2013).

Most of Sayulita’s surf rental shops now also offer SUP rentals and lessons, but one new shop has dedicated itself fully to SUP. Sayulita SUP offers Sayulita`s biggest selection of SUP boards for sale or rent. In addition to their own brand of boards, they also offer high performance brands like Naish and Rogue, as well as a great selection of paddles, clothing, and accessories. Whether you are a beginner or looking to add a new skill, this is also a great place to take a lesson. Besides providing the basics of SUP, they offer classes on how to ride waves and, coming this fall, SUP yoga!

The store’s owner, Leyla Morris, is a certified yoga instructor who recently moved to Sayulita from Hawaii, and her store provides a welcoming aloha/namaste vibe. In back of the well-appointed shop is a beautiful green space with a pingpong table, a smoothie bar (also

serving ice cold beer), and the famous Iguana Tree, which is home to a crew of amazing iguanas. This space has long been a hangout of these locally famous lizards and is now quickly becoming a favourite for SUP enthusiasts.

Sayulita might be the SUP epicenter in Mexico but the love of the sport extends throughout the bay. One of the best SUP companies in all of Mexico is Pacific Paddle out of nearby Bucerias. Canadian-born owner Adam Finer is a true pioneer of SUP in Mexico and was the first to bring a SUP board here in 2006. As more and more amigos took notice of Adam having a blast on his SUP, so did their requests for him to supply them with boards of their own. Soon Adam was making regular road trips to the States and importing boards for friends. As the demand became greater than his truck could hold, Adam decided to become a distributer. Today his shop sells more paddleboards than anyplace in Mexico and has expanded to offer sales and rentals in Sayulita and Punta de Mita.

In addition to having a huge inventory of SUP boards, paddles and accessories for sale or rent, Pacific Paddle is also the first certified SUP School in Mexico, and the creator of SUP excursions such as the Las Marietas SUP Safari, and Los Arcos Safari. These day trips to offshore rock formations are perfectly suited to SUP as it affords an amazing perspective of your surroundings, both around and in the water beneath you. If you choose a day trip to Los Arcos or the Marietas, be sure to pack a waterproof camera because you will certainly see amazing sea life, birds and have plenty of fantastic photo ops. Whether you are about to dip your paddle for the first time or you have already taken the plunge, you will be sure to find many great ways to be stoked about SUP during your next vacation to the Riviera Nayarit.

Originally published in Mexi-Go! Magazine

For any questions, comments or information about tours, rentals, restaurant and entertainment please contact me at Cat@RivieraNayaritFun.com or Cat@NewEnergyConsciousness.com

H

ola a todos! It has certainly been very crazy last week with the cartels creating havoc. The brave officers who stand up for this country have a long road ahead of them. I would like to give my condolences to the families and friends of the officers that were killed, and to the families of the citizens as well. These officers are fighting for the country’s freedom and safety, and everyone that comes to visit this amazing country. I will say, I love living here all year round, and have never felt any fear here. Viva Mexico!

Mother’s Day is this Sunday.

Have you decided where you’re going to celebrate this special day?

Mother’s Day Events Breakers Beach Bar is celebrating with a Mother’s Day BBQ on the Beach. They will supply the BBQ Grill, YOU bring the meat & cook it just how you like!! Jam & Open Mic Night hosted by "One Night Stand" with Mike Lynch starts at 6 pm.

Bring an instrument and your voice if you like! Breakers is open for the summer hours on Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 12 noon to 9pm.

Mark’s Bar and Grill Mark’s is open all summer long for dinner starting at 5pm. Enjoy the cool patio, and all of their large fans.

They are offering a special Mother’s Day Menu.

Black Forest Restaurant in La Cruz Celebrate Mother's Day at the Black Forest Restaurant with a special 3-course dinner that Chef Winfried is preparing.

Nahui Beach Restaurant The Nahui Beach restaurant is the perfect place to relax all day on the playa with your mom. Enjoy their Mother’s Day specials. What a great way to spend the day in a private beach cove with your mom!

They are easy to find as they are located just past La Cruz at the Destilideras Playa. Looking at the large parking lot up on top, Nahui

Beach Restaurant is on the left. 5 pesos on the bus from La Cruz…

NICE! Vida Spa and Salon is celebrating Mother’s Day this year with a Daughter / Mother massage special.

Vida Spa and Salon also offer a “Girls Spa Party” with refreshments.

Up to a party of five girls makes it super fun to have a spa day with facials, pedicures, manicures, hair treatments and massage. An easy location: right on the corner of the Terralta light in Bucerias!

Bucerias Art Gallery and Studio You can find Tracy in the studio at The Bucerias Art Gallery & Studio on Tuesdays and Fridays during their open to the public painting sessions. If you have an urge to try painting, these open studio sessions is a perfect way to introduce you to some creative play.

The studio is located at 60 A Lazaro Cardenas in Bucerias next to the Jan Marie Boutique. Pricing includes all your materials and a small canvas. Reserve a spot by emailing BuceriasArt@gmail.com The studio also offers a Go BIG Go Home 2 day painting workshop where the participant leaves with a piece large enough to hang over their couch.

Get on the list for the next workshop! Seen here is Gloria from “Gloria's Place” in La Cruz.

Mother’s Day at Gloria’s Place!

Come in Saturday, May 9th and receive special pricing on jewelry.

Gloria’s Place has new summer hours: Friday and Saturday from 10-3pm or by appointment.

Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms out there! Do something special with your mom more often.

She is not going to be around forever! Take the time to spend time with the ones you love, not only on the holidays!

To keep posted on the summer fun and restaurant specials and events check out the Facebook Page Have a super week everyone!

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celebrations

May 7 - 13, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

In Mexico, a celebration of the mother cult

By William Booth

E

verybody loves mothers, but Mexicans?

Maybe more so.

In the annual celebration of the mother cult, Mexico is especially devout, and every year on May 10 (they don’t move the date around to fall on a Sunday), the entire nation stops what it is doing in the afternoon and eats some serious lunch with Mom. “For us Mexicans, first, there is the Virgin of Guadalupe, and, second, there is our mother,” said Maxine Woodside, radio host of the popular show “Todo Para La Mujer,” or “All About Women,” and the mother of two boys.

“Mexicans are very attached to family, not like in the United States, where they throw the kids out of the house at age 18,” Woodside said. “Here we see men in their 40s who still live with their mothers, and why not? Their moms still do their laundry.”

A popular Mother’s Day gift? Irons. Also big blenders (not to make margaritas, but soups, sauces, salsas). Mexican thinker Octavio Paz, in his classic work on the national psyche, “The Labyrinth of Solitude,” spends a lot of pages mulling Mexico’s worship of saintly, suffering, giving mother figures.

In Mexican slang, to insult the mother, to take in vain “la madre,” is to swear with serious intent.

On Thursday May 10 2012, in honor of the maternal, outgoing Mexico City Mayor Marcelo Ebrard invited Paul McCartney, the Beatle, to play for 200,000 fans at a free concert in the capital’s central square, the Zocalo.

“Hola, D.F.!,” the former mop head said, speaking Spanish to the Distrito Federal, Mexico’s version of D.C., saying how happy he was to be here on this special day.

“Estamos muy contentos de estar aqui en el Dia de las Madres!”

Mexicans are, interestingly, Beatle fanatics.

There are radio stations that play nothing but Beatles music. But McCartney was wise to have on stage some mariachi players, because crooning mariachis are central to the celebration of mothers here. The musicians pack the restaurants, but another tradition, especially in the countryside, holds that mariachis (and

the adoring children) should gather outside mothers’ homes for a serenade.

The most popular song is the sweet, sugary “Las Mananitas”: “Awaken, my dear, awaken/ and see that the day has dawned/ now the little birds are singing/ and the moon has set.”

Having 80 people over for lunch on this day? Not unusual.

“It is, without a doubt, the most important day for restaurants, our busiest day of the year, when we sell double, triple what we would on a normal day,” said Manuel Gutierrez, president of the national association of restaurateurs, who has worked in and around commercial kitchens since he was a boy.

Gutierrez estimates that for this one day, Mexico puts 200,000 extra waiters to work.

The most popular restaurants are, naturally, family-style, where kids can run around and families eat from long tables piled with kilos of carnitas and barbacoa. A decent Mother’s Day lunch can easily clock in at five hours. Also common: Mom might knock back a shot or two of tequila — for her heart.

“The mother is an institution in Mexico, and Mexicans are party animals. And as the mother traditionally is the one working for us,

cleaning for us, cooking for us, we believe that at least one day a year, we ought to take her out and let someone else do the cooking,” Gutierrez said. At the flower market in the San Angel barrio, florist Manuel Garcia was up before dawn, making arrangements.

“There is nothing like the Mother’s Day for us, because everybody gives flowers today to their mamas. If you can, you also buy a gift for her, or for the grandma, but flowers? You cannot show up without flowers.”

Garcia explained that the tradition does not end with a mother’s death. “Of course, the children also come to buy flowers for their mothers who have passed away, because they go to visit them at the cemeteries,” which overflow with bouquets.

“Maybe Mexicans don’t have many things, but we have a lot of love for our moms,” he said.

It is also election season in Mexico, and campaign volunteers will flood into town squares to hand out roses to mothers, maybe with a little note reminding them who loves them the most and what political party they represent.

Researcher Gabriela Martinez contributed to this report.

Original: www.washingtonpost.com

Las Mañanitas Lyrics: Estas son las mañanitas, que cantaba el Rey David, Hoy por ser día de tu santo, te las cantamos a ti, Despierta, mi bien*, despierta, mira que ya amaneció, Ya los pajarillos cantan, la luna ya se metió.

Que linda está la mañana en que vengo a saludarte, Venimos todos con gusto y placer a felicitarte, Ya viene amaneciendo, ya la luz del día nos dio, Levántate de mañana, mira que ya amaneció.

Translation:

This is the morning song that King David sang Because today is your saint's day we're singing it for you Wake up, my dear*, wake up, look it is already dawn The birds are already singing and the moon has set How lovely is the morning in which I come to greet you We all came with joy and pleasure to congratulate you The morning is coming now, the sun is giving us its light Get up in the morning, look it is already dawn * Often replaced with the name of the person who is being celebrated

local

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Of Markets and Men

By Robin Avery avery1@mac.com

“The unexamined life is not worth living.” Socrates.

A

s a young actor, Robert Redford made movies that focused on corruption in politics but when asked why he wouldn’t run for office he said “We Americans enjoy the distraction of entertainment but aren’t really interested in the deeper message.

We don’t like to look inward; we don’t like darkness.”

Anthony Noto was the C.F.O. of twitter for five and a half months.

He was paid seventy-three million dollars. Does that sound right?

Does that sound ethical? He has in effect been paid from the future

earnings of the company. I would submit that’s what we have been doing with the financial system for years now. We are borrowing against the future.

Of all the money outstanding in the world, ninety percent of it, is debt. We are saddling future generations with our greed. In a hundred short years of our history,

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

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

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

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

we have plundered the earth’s resources; we have poisoned the atmosphere and wreaked havoc on the environment. Humanity has been ripped out of corporations and we stand by and allow it to happen. We contribute to it; to say otherwise is a self-delusional lie.

Elizabeth Warren tried to pass a bill last year that would allow students to pay a mere, eight and a half percent on their current loans; it was not passed.

Her argument was, if we loan government money to banks for less than one percent, why can’t we invest in the future genera-

May 7 - 13, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

tion? The banks themselves have acknowledged that, student loan defaults are posing a very real threat to the economy. The future is not getting brighter for many young people, who are themselves, investing in the American dream. Saddled with debt, the employment landscape becoming increasingly competitive and with rents and the cost of living ever-rising how must they feel?

Inequality is real and ever growing, yet we, as a generation stand by and support the status quo. Why? Is it because we feel helpless? Is it because we can’t be bothered? Is it because we don’t understand the problem?

Understanding is the first step to setting oneself free of anything.

I have laid out many ways in which to educate ourselves about the current economic system; if you have missed them, feel free to drop me a line.

Citigroup is “monitoring” Elizabeth Warren. She has dared to challenge the financial system and it has been published that the big banks have let the demo-

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

cratic party know, in no uncertain terms, that if she does not back down from her outrageous attacks there will be no campaign support for them. Do we need any more proof? The banks have become a parasite on the economic system and now they are challenging the very essence of democracy.

Adam Smith, one of the fathers of capitalism said, “ If justice is removed….. the great, immense fabric of human society… must in a moment crumble into atoms.”

Paul Tudor Jones, a man that has amassed a fortune on Wall Street recently gave a “ Ted Talk,” it’s ten minutes long. He outlines his ambitions in creating “Just Capital”, It is a non-profit organization that would create a “Just Index” for corporations to guide themselves by. Please watch it. Please take the time to examine what we as a people have wrought for future generations; your children, your children’s children. Historically inequality does not stand, eventually something narrows the divide; Monarchies are beheaded, unjust regimes overthrown. Shall we leave that job to our children too, or will we ourselves attempt a peaceful and democratic revolution? The choice is ours, it is yours; we can choose to leave a legacy we can be proud of, or we can throw up our hands and pretend we were powerless.

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

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

PICK UP YOUR COPY OF THE TRIBUNE AT PUERTO VALLARTA TOURISM OFFICES OLD TOWN FARMERS MARKET A PAGE IN THE SUN - ZONA ROMANTICA FREDY TUCAN´S - ZONA ROMANTICA NUEVO VALLARTA RESORTS CONSULATE OFFICES

DECAMERON RESORT - BUCERIAS BREAKER´S BEACH BAR - BUCERIAS YO-YO MO´S - BUCERIAS MARINA RIVIERA NAYARIT - LA CRUZ LA CRUZ FARMERS MARKET OSO RESTAURANT - LA CRUZ

charities

14

May 7 - 13, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Non - Profit and Charitable Organizations For visitors to Puerto Vallarta who wish to support the less privileged in our paradise, this is a list of some of the many organizations that could benefit from such kind gestures. If you would like your organization recognized here, please email details to editor@vallartatribune.com.

Acción En La Cruz aid residents of La Cruz de Huanacaxtle by providing provisions in exchange for community services performed.landon5120.wix.com/accionenlacruz Alcoholics Anonymous: In English Puerto Vallarta Alanon Club - Basilio Badillo 329 recoverpv.com Amazing Grace Missions Assisting families in Magisterio & Progreso with necessities and job training and English. slw2014nv@gmail.com American Legion Post 14: raises resources and manpower to improve facilities needing building maintenance americanlegion14.org Amigos del Magisterio - Food delivered directly to workers at the PV dump, their families and schools in Magisterio and Volcanes. Also, food to New Beginnings, Pasitos de Luz, and Caritas. 100% of donations to the people, no overhead.amigosdelmagisterio.com lysephilrioux@hotmail.com Asilo San Juan Diego Home for the Elderly - Contact: Lupita Sanchez Covarrubias 222-1257 or malupita88@ hotmail.com or mexonline.com\asilosanjuandiego.htm Asociación Down - Assistance to persons with Down’s Syndrome – Contact: Ana Eisenring at 224-9577.

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

Tax-deductible in Mexico and USA. Polly Vicars at (322)

223-1371 or Buri Gray at (322) 221-5285.

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

Casa Hogar - A shelter for orphaned, abandoned, disadvantaged or vulnerable children.

Luz Aurora Arredondo at 221-1908, Rita Millan (322) 141-6974. casamaximocornejo@gmail.com Centro Comunitario SETAC-GLBT – Services the GLBT community, including treatment and referrals, education, English classes, HIV testing and counseling.

Paco Arjona 224-1974 Clinica de Rehabilitación Santa Barbara - Rehabilitation of the handicapped.

Contact: Laura Lopez Portillo Rodriguez at 224-2754.

COLINA Spay and Neuter Clinic - Free and by-donation sterilization clinic in Old Town. Only open Sundays, Contact: cez@rogers.com or 322-104-6609 CompassionNet Impact – Transforming the lives of people living in chronic poverty. Job creation, education, emergency & more. Tax-deductible. Cell: (322) 133-7263 or ric@4compassion.org Corazon de Nina A safe, loving, home-environment for 20+ girls rescued from high-risk situations. Donations & volunteers always welcome! Totally self-funded. www.corazondenina.mx Cruz Roja (Red Cross) - Handles hospital and emergency service in Vallarta. It is the only facility that is authorized to offer assistance to injured people on the street.

Contact: 222-1533, 222-4973 Desayunos para los Niños de Vallarta A.C. Feeding programs, education programs, day care centers for single mothers. 2234311 or 22225 72 Discapacitados de Vallarta, A.C. (DIVAC) association of handicapped individuals dedicated to helping one another.

U.S. Coast Guard Puts Final Touches on Kinder Care Rehab By: Jerry Lafferty

T

he U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Midgett, operating out of Seattle, Washington, visited Puerto Vallarta last week for a bit of R&R, but also found time to send a work party of ten sailors to finish the total overhaul of a Kinder Care in Ixtapa.

This school, the Jardin de Ninos “Luis Medina Casillas,” has been a perennial recipient of Toys for Tots distributed by the Navy League each Christmas season. For the past six months volunteers from the Navy League, American Legion, visiting ships and other community volunteers have put in countless hours totally rehabilitating this school, including painting, resealing roofs, repairing deteriorating electrical wiring, landscaping, rebuilding a playground, and improving the safety of the kids when entering

elevated classrooms. A dedication of this major project took place immediately following the Midgett’s finishing touches.

While in port for four days, the Midgett also hosted a ship tour for Navy Leaguers and attended a party for Officers and Chiefs at Murphy’s Irish Pub on the malecon.

At this Navy League-sponsored party, the ship’s Captain presented the Navy League with a framed, signed photo of the Midgett, and VIP Magazine presented Certificates of Appreciation to three Navy Leaguers who were instrumental in completing the Kinder Care Project.

The Cutter Midgett is one of the largest ships in the Coast Guard fleet. It’s a “Heavy” Cutter, 378 ft in length, weighs 3,300 tons and has a crew of 162 men and women.

During the ship tour, lucky Navy Leaguers got a chance to view its armament, helo deck, bridge and

living spaces. Quite impressive to say the least.

If you’d like to participate in future ship visits, or engage in community improvement projects including Toys for Tots, we encourage you to join the Navy League and/or American Legion.

Both organizations have no requirement for previous military service and accept all nationalities, male and female. Annual membership costs are nominal. You’ll enjoy not only the hosting of visiting ships and mariners, but active social programs and opportunities to assist the community through programs such as Toys for Tots and school rehabilitations.

For more info, visit our booth at this month’s Altruism Festival, or contact Jerry Lafferty of the Navy League at laffja@aol.com, or Dennis Rike of the American Legion at dennis2rike@hotmail.com.

Ivan Applegate at 221-5153.

Families At The Dump: Supporting families living in the landfill or garbage dump thru education and sustainable opportunities. familiesatthedump.org Fundacion Punta de Mita LDG. Ana Lilia Medina Varas de Valdés. ana@fundacionpuntademita.org Tel. (329) 291 5053 Friends of PV Animals Volunteers working to enhance the lives of shelter animals. For info and donations visit friendsofpvanimals.com Grupo Ecológico de Puerto Vallarta: Arq. Luz del Carmen Pérez A cayro_13@hotmail.com grupoecologico.com Horizonte de Paz: Shelter for men of all ages who are troubled with alcohol & drug addiction. Donato Schimizzi: 322 199 9523 or Roberto: 281 0644 dschimizzi@yahoo.com La Brigada de la Basura: A weekly meeting of neighborhood children to clean Vallarta Streets.

Contact Que?Pasa 223-4006 Mexico Ministries & Mission, Inc. raises funds to the poor in Vallarta. Contact Fr. Jack+ 044 322 229-1129 christchurchbythesea.org Navy League - assists in the transportation of donated medical supplies from the U.S., organizes work groups to paint and repair facilities New Life Mexico - Challenging Child Poverty with health and education programs. Philippa Vernon pvp@newlifemexico.com Paraíso Felino AC Refuge and Adoption Centre for cats and kittens in the Bay of Banderas. Luis Donaldo Cel. (322) 120-4092 Pasitos de Luz - substitute home for low income children with any type of handicap, offers rehabilitation services and more. 299-4146.

Vallarta Yacht Club awards Jim Kettler Award

O

n April 8, 2015 Vallarta Yacht Club held its annual Volunteer Luncheon to acknowledge the many hours of volunteer time its members and friends spent supporting the activities and sailing regattas over the 2014/2015 season.

A tradition at this event is the presentation of the Jim Kettler Award which is given each year to a Vallarta Yacht Club member who contributes time and service to both the Yacht Club and the Banderas Bay Community.

There are many who support the club and many who contribute to the community--but not to both.

This year the Jim Kettler Award was presented to Charlotte Shull - a woman who epito-

mizes what was envisioned with this honor.

For many years Charlotte has worked tirelessly and efficiently on behalf of both the Yacht Club and the community.

She has contributed her expertise on many committees and as both Secretary and Membership Chair of the Vallarta Yacht Club.

Additionally she contributes to the community through her many years as a member of the Beta Sigma Phi sorority, currently working through a chapter here in Mexico which provides support for a seniors home and a special needs school. Vallarta Yacht Club is proud to add Charlotte to our list of recipients of the Jim Kettler award.

brain teasers

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May 7 - 13, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Random Thoughts from the Tribune sports Desks

By Joel Hansen

I

know it has been a while since you have seen this column and for that I apologize. I know the esteemed editor has done a great job of replacing me with actual good and relevant writing. So if you are looking for good and relevant writing you may need to look elsewhere in this paper, because you will not find it here.

If you have read this column in the past you know that I generally sequester myself away in a cave in an undisclosed location in the Sierra Madres where I create 10 consecutive editions of mock drafts for the NFL and watch tape on every single player in college (even punters).

As usual, I was wrong on nearly every pick and even more disappointing, my Eagles were unable to draft Marcus Mariota, which has shaken my blind devotion to Chip Kelly. Well, that and the fact that he also signed Tim Tebow the week previous. Currently I have downgraded Chip from Messiah to a mere prophet.

I did venture out of my draft bunker to travel to Cabo San Lucas to cover the Baja Sur 500 a couple weeks ago. As a kid growing up on a little farm in rural Ontario I thought Mexico was the most exotic, amazing placeon earth and two things in particular stood out to me, the cliff divers in Acapulco (which I would see on ABC’s Wide World of Sports) and the Baja 500.

When the opportunity to get media credentials for the race was offered to me I jumped at the chance and decided to bring my son along for the dusty ride.

It was great weekend, just two guys (along with 1000s of others) chasing after dune buggies and unlimited horsepower Trophy Trucks, running wide open through some of the most rugged desert on the face of the planet. It was an incredible experience and one that I will be documenting more in depth in the next issue of Mexi-Go! magazine.

This past Saturday was one of those perfect storm type days in sports. I started the day playing in a little friendly tennis tournament with a few friends, where I consumed more Pacifico then Gatorade, just to give you an idea what the level of competition was like.

From there we were off to the Kentucky Derby where I picked 2 of the 3 horses and won a big fat zero pesos, next up game 7 between the Spurs and the Clippers, where I won some of my pesos back by taking the Spurs plus 2.5 but, due to those earlier Pacificos, I misplaced my winning ticket. And finally, I watched the biggest ‘Fight of the Century’ between Manny and Mayweather. Despite the disappointing fight I was feeling pretty great about my day, a good time spent with some of my closest friends, in my favorite place on earth, right here in PV. Then I thought about Tom Brady’s day. He started the day in Kentucky at the derby, then hopped a private jet with Gronk and the rest of his boys and sat ringside at the fight, kinda put my Derby at Toritos to the fight at Los Muertos day in perspective.

Not bad Tom. Not bad.

SUDOKU

medium

hard

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May 7 - 13, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Charming tranquility in the mountains S T

his magical town was officially made a Pueblo Magico in 2012. A historic town with a rich past, this once booming mining town as the second city in Mexico to get electricity. It was also home to Hollywood celebrities and today is a haven for Guadalajarans and Puerto Vallartans looking for tranquil nature and a respite from the summer heat.

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

The town continues to grow with the inauguration of the new business association. There are approximately 10 hotels and 20 restaurants. Freshly prepared meals made from mostly local ingredients, flaky French pastries and warm, rich cups of coffee will give you the energy to spend the day exploring the town and surrounding hills.

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

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

The trip takes about an hour and a half. It’s 60kms of often single lane highway that winds through the farmland of the Ameca Valley, through the jungles, to the sierras of pine and oak forests at about 1,500 meters above sea level. The air can be a little thin but it’s humidity free which is a blessing in the summer heat.

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

And you can’t ignore the “chocorraiz”, a chocolate drink with “Raicilla” (a local moonshine) and, for desert, enjoy peaches with rompope and cinnamon. Above all, take advantage of nature’s generosity, offering guavas, lemons, plantains, oranges, peaches, arrayan and “faisan” berries. To truly enjoy the local fruits visit in May and June.

Itineraries Visit this old mining city that once had up to 20,000 inhabitants,

which still maintains its grandeur albeit with a tranquil charm of a village that is currently home to just 600 people. Its cobbled streets take you done tree-lined paths flanked by mossy walls and vines, all hypnotically set to music by the sound of a stream passing underneath old stone bridges.

Friday 4:00 p.m. From the sea to the mountains Puerto Vallarta's heat behind us, the bus gained 1,480 meters in altitude and left us at La Estancia, a town where we caught a taxi to San Sebastian del Oeste. There the pavement ended and we began our way along cobbled streets flanked by trees and beautiful white houses. They led us to a flat earthen plaza with a central gazebo and archways all around.

We couldn't help but think we were in a movie: the old adobe houses and signs looked like they were straight out of a Clint Eastwood film.

7:00 p.m. The gourmet wild west

As fog rolled into town, Fortin de San Sebastian lit its streetlamps.

A restaurant right on the main square, we ordered huitlacoche guisado con cebolla (stewed corn

fungus and onions) and finished it off with chocorraiz, or hot chocolate with raicilla (homemade liquor similar to tequila), a San Sebastian specialty. To make sure we slept

well we had a peach, rompope (eggnog-like drink), and cinnamon desert. Although the town is warm during the day, at night the temperature drops significantly so we

travel

May 7 - 13, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

San Sebastian del Oeste, Jalisco

headed to our cabin and chimney at La Galerita.

Saturday 8:00 a.m. Waking up in Eden In the morning we went out for a walk and were astonished by the place's beauty: just a couple of blocks from downtown San Sebastian del Oeste and we were immersed in a garden of fragrant trees, walls covered in mosses, fences cloaked in vines, and the sound of a nearby creek passing under old stone bridges.

Just in front of Hacienda Esperanza de la Galera we found a garden full of fruit trees open to visitors. There we picked guavas, lemons, plantains, oranges, peaches, and faisanes, a type of blackberry.

12:00 noon. A peaceful walk about town In the afternoon we continued walking about town, going up and down cobbled streets, discovering alleyways, and admiring the stately homes where the mines' owners once resided. In an old house next to the Presidencia Municipal we saw a sign for the Doña Conchita Encarnacion Museum, exhibiting objects that were collected by Doña Conchita, who belonged to an important mining family. Her daughter, Maria Guadalupe Berm, takes care of the place.

We crossed the plaza and found Raul Bernal sitting on his porch.

He makes cigars using Nayarit tobacco and his main customers are Americans and Canadians that come from Puerto Vallarta to stock up on the sweet-smelling products.

Later we visited Quinta Mary where they sew and produce 100%-organic highland coffee.

From there we went to La Hacienda Jalisco, which is currently a museum and hotel. It's famous for doing away with electricity and having served as a getaway for a long list of celebrities. We went back to town and sat down

at La Fonda Eva Maria where they served us a mixed plate with stuffed chiles, gorditas (fried stuffed corncakes), machaca (a type of dried beef or pork), and agua de nanche (nance juice).

5:00 p.m. A sea of clouds After our late lunch we decided to go to Cerro de la Bufa where they say you can get a view of the ocean when it's clear out. As we had time to spare we stopped at Real Alto where you'll find the area's oldest church dating back to the 17th century. There we met Señora Mariana who offered us cajeta, a local type of fruit jam; we bought quince, tecojote, and apple jams in addition to ponche, a fruit liqueur that we absolutely loved.

We got to the top of Cerro de la Bufa as the sun lit the surrounding clouds a bright red and took a stroll along a path there. The setting was the most magical on our entire trip and we stayed until it was dark out, snacking on cajeta and drinking ponche.

Sunday 8:00 a.m. Exploring the surroundings We left early for Los Reyes, a community just 13 kilometers from San Sebastian del Oeste following a difficult and sinuous road. Along the way we stopped at Santiago de Los Pinos to have breakfast.

There we delighted in tortas de picadillo (ground beef sandwiches), ranchero-cheese quesadillas, and a delicious type of local tuber known as tacuacines.

We got to Los Reyes using a road that crosses a stone bridge.

There we met up with Olga, who would be our guide at the cave of basaltic prisms. We got to the ruins of La Hacienda La Victoria and continued using a creekside trail.

The vegetation along the way is exuberant and tropical with plantain and avocado trees all over the place; we also saw old entrances to mines and the remains of walls, chimneys, and water channels.

11:00 a.m.

Finding 'La Escondida' We crossed a hanging bridge and found the cave known as La Escondida ('The Hidden One'), a cavern with basaltic prisms crowded together like teeth. Olga picked fruits from a passionflower vine, similar to the sweet granadilla, which she gave us to try. We took a different trail back and saw Los Reyes from far away. To our surprise the town is built on a rock foundation out of which a waterfall

flows, creating a postcard-perfect scene unlike any we had ever seen.

We feel asleep on the way back and woke at the entrance to San Sebastian del Oeste: in the two hours that it took to get back we didn't feel a single bump along the rough dirt road. The road during the best of times is bumpy – rainy season is another story. Save your suspension and plan on driving a 4x4 or taking a local tour.

4:00 p.m. A farewell meal

We ate at Los Arcos de Sol where the specialty is beef tongue in an almond sauce.

For dessert we had tamales colados (a regional type of sweet tamale). On the recommendation of the locals we stopped at El Parral on the way out. There, master raicilla-maker Eduardo Sanchez showed us how he produces his homemade liquor, distilling it from agave.

Source: visitmexico.com

First notice In March 2015 at the request of Sr. Fabian O`Rourke Cordoba to meet with Sr. Servando Zuñiga Espinosa and Sra. Maritza Alcaraz Espino and her daughter Paulina Rodriguez Alcaraz at the law offices Flores & Flores in Puerto Vallarta Sr. O`Rourke agreed to restitute to Sr. Servando Zuñiga Espinosa the amount owed of $2’000,000.00 pesos Mexican currency in the following manner: 1. On April the 10th 2015 he agreed to deliver Sr. Zuñiga the amount of $500,000.00 pesos Mexican currency and he deliberately failed to fulfill punctually his commitment, it is obvious that he had no intentions to do so.

2. Sr. Fabian O`Rourke Cordoba accepted Sr. Zuñiga`s terms and conditions to restitute him the balance of $1`5000,000.00 pesos Mexican currency for a term of 3 years with consecutively monthly payments free of accrued legal interest.

3. To guaranty the aforementioned restitution of $1’500,000.00 pesos Mexican currency Sr. Fabian O`Rourke Cordoba agreed to mortgage in favor of Sr. Servando Zuñiga a certain real estate property located in Puerto Vallarta.

Regrettably Sr. Fabian O`Rourke not only failed to fulfill his commitment but obviously he lied and never intended to keep his word.

I sincerely wish that Sr. O`Rourke will reconsider his behavior and look for a last effort in order to resolve satisfactorily this unsavory matter. I have taken preliminary due legal steps that perhaps will damage his business integrity.

This publication does not constitute a threaten but merely a public warning.

Servando Zuñiga Espinosa

VALLARTA TRIBUNE 829 Feb 25 - March 3, 2013

The Natural Beauty of OUR Mountain

Plants

2000

Mammals

80

Birds

300

Amphibians and Reptiles

23

Butterflies

85

500

50% of these species are endemic to MĂŠxico.

We propose the area to be designated a

Natural Preserve Because for Vallarta,

Without the Mountain...

There is no future