Issue 950, June 18-24, 2015 by Vallarta Tribune

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Nature saving a million turtles

June 18 - 24, 2015 Free Issue 950

Riviera Nayarit 55th fishing tourney

Cuisine flavors of the bay

Archive

OLIVE RIDLEY TURTLE

welcome

Welcome to Puerto Vallarta

and Riviera Nayarit Here is some advice to make your trip a little easier and more enjoyable. TIME ZONE: The entire state of Jalisco is on Central Time, as is the southern part of the State of Nayarit starting from Guayabitos in the north. BUSES: A system of urban buses with different routes can bring you from one end of the bay to the other and all the spots in between. Current fare is $7.50 pesos per ticket and passengers must purchase a new ticket every time they board another bus. There are no “transfers”. TAXIS: There are set rates within defined zones of town. Do not enter a taxi without agreeing on the price with the driver first. Price is per trip not person. MONEY EXCHANGE: Although you may have to wait in line for a few minutes, banks will give you a higher rate of exchange than the exchange booths (caja de cambio). You will need your passport. Better yet, use your bank card to withdraw funds from any ATM machine. Note that ATM’s in the banks are the safest to use and generally charge lower fees. DRINKING WATER: For the year 18 in a row, Puerto Vallarta’s water has been awarded a certification of purity for human consumption. The quality of the water tested at the purification plant varies greatly from what comes out of the tap at the other end. So do be careful. If you want to be doubly sure, you can pick up bottled water just about anywhere. EXPORTING PETS: Falling love with the street dog outside your hotel or a puppy on the Malecon doesn’t mean they can’t come home with you. The process is fairly inexpensive and only takes a day or two. You need a certificate of health from a local vet among other things. The time of year that pets can travel in the cargo section of the plane may be your biggest challenge. For the most up-to-date information contact the Puerto Vallarta SPCA at spcapv@gmail.com. COMMON SENSE: Just as you wouldn’t walk around your hometown drunk and beligerent, it is not acceptable to do that here. While Mexicans are a forgiving bunch, basic politeness is appreciated. For the guys, peeing in public is a major faux pas and if you are caught, can get you tossed in jail or an expensive fine. Pay attention to your surroundings. Pay your bills. Be courteous. And have fun! DRINKING AND DRIVING: First off – just don’t. The consequences are not worth it. Taxis are cheap and plentiful. Fines are as much as 10,000 pesos. You can be taken to jail and your vehicle impounded. There are many checkstops on the weekends and you will be asked to blow if they suspect you have been drinking. LEGAL SYSTEM: Not knowing the law is not an valid excuse in Mexico or anywhere. If you find yourself caught in a legal situation be aware that guilt is presumed until your innocence can be proven. This is a very difficult lesson to learn if you are visiting from the United States or Canada in particular. Immediately contact your consulate for assistance.

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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

Gretchen DeWitt he mission of PEACEAnimals is to prevent the suffering of animals. We reduce, but do not eliminate, the suffering of animals by sterilizing approximately 4,000 cats and dogs annually. Many thousands of kittens and puppies are born here every year, and an enormous number are born to starve, become diseased, injured or killed by vehicles and often become victims of abandonment and abuse. Please contact any or all of the animal rescue organizations if you need help for an animal or would like to adopt one. That list is on our website on the “resource” tab. 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 Puro Gato Centro de Acopio Animal PURR PROJECT Cuidando sus Huelitos PV Animal Friends of Puerto Vallarta Animals PV Dog News Helping Pets in Puerto Vallarta Rescate Animalista Huellitas Catninas LADRA Match Dog Com NOTE: A recent law was passed in Jalisco that MexPup requires all pets be sterilized after the age of eight NO BORDERS ANIMAL weeks. To not comply with the law means a fine of RESCUE ORGANIZATION (NOBARS) 5,400 pesos. Paraiso Felino This information is being given out by our educaPEACEANIMALS PERROS PERDIDOS PUERTO VALLARTA tion director at schools and at our clinics.

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

Vallarta Tribune is an activity and entertainment guide and merely publishes information as it is provided by the advertiser or event host. We do not assume responsibility in errors or omissions other than to correct them as soon as they are made known to us regarding event schedules, locations and/or prices. In addition, we do not assume any responsibility for erroneous inclusion or exclusion of information except to take reasonable care to ensure accuracy, that permission has been obtained to use it, and to remove it as soon as is practical upon receiving your notification of error. We recommend you always confirm prior to attending or visiting an event or establishment. Weekly publication edited, printed and distributed by Ediciones y Publicaciones Siete Junio, SA de CV Grupo Editorial Tribuna Calle 21 de Marzo # 1174 Col. Lomas del Coapinole Del. El Pitillal, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco México CP 48290 Tel. 226-0800 editor@vallartatribune.com * www.vallartatribune.com * www.facebook.com/vallarta.tribune

editorial

Editor’s

Note

editor@vallartatribune.com

oly weather! The thunder and the lightening were inside my house this week. I could taste the electricity in the air. It was intense, but not unexpected. It’s not my first summer here so I do know that despite how it sounds, the world is not cracking in two. However, one of my dogs doesn’t believe me, no matter how many times I try to soothe her. She thinks the only relief from the loud noises is to crawl inside my body, which, when I’m sleeping is annoying to say the least. The poor thing gets so frightened, she begins to hyperventilate and her little heart tries to jump out of her chest. I have tried just about everything but doggy valium, which is next on my list. Aside from the first night of Blanca when the rain came in sideways, my house has remained dry and the garden is thankful for the full

drink. For the first time since cutter ants decimated it, my bougainvillea has begun to bloom. I am hopeful that I’ll have this colourful jungle garden soon. Current plans are pretty low key. There’s not much going on around town, the movie theaters seems to be a little busier than usual. I’ve been going pretty regularly to escape the heat/humidity. All that’s left to see is Jurassic Park. My, how my standards have fallen since leaving Canada. Most movies shown in this area are big blockbusters or cheesy romance; rarely does a film of real quality make its way onto the silver screens. But the popcorn comes in caramel flavor so I’m not really complaining. And two can go to the movies for under $200 pesos – one of the best deals to be had in Mexico! Finally Jalisco has passed a

number of laws for the care and protection of your animals. One of them is that without a special permit you are required to sterilize your pets by age 8 weeks. You are also required to provide basic veterinary care, clean up your dogs poops, vaccinate them and maintain health records. It’s a slow process but with education, free spay and neuter clinics and enforcement when necessary we will begin to see less starving, abandoned animals in the streets. Not unlike litter, this is a problem that comes about with education and resources and setting a good example. If you are aware of anyone who is flagrant violation of these new laws, consider reporting them. Stay dry. Stay safe. Some of the roads can flood very quickly and driving in massive rainstorms with unpredictable surges is never a good idea. Please take the time to pick up litter around your house so that it isn’t swept into the ocean with the coming rains. Last thing the ocean needs is more garbage in it. Enjoy the lights shows,

Madeline

PROTECTION AND CARE OF ANIMALS

3. Pets from seven weeks of age must be sterilized unless you have obtained a permit for reproduction.

Jun 18 - 24, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

SPCA of Puerto Vallarta Janice Gonzalez

ome and spend a rewarding afternoon cuddling the animals at Puerto Vallarta’s SPCA Sanctuary. Our dogs and cats are awaiting “forever homes” and your help is needed to jump start their socialization. The goal is to get these animals adjusted and ready to interact in the real world. The majority of the SPCA animals either come from extremely abusive situations or they have been abandoned. Your love and attention can make up for that sad history. During your visit, you can interact with the animals and even take a dog (or two or three) for a walk. You can also play with the animals, assist the vet or help with dinner time. Are you ready to get involved? Pack your bag for an amazing afternoon at the SPCA! Please bring water, a sack lunch and any treats you might enjoy during your visit. Sharing food with the animals is prohibited. We encourage you to bring your camera. Take as many photos as you like, and share them with us and your social media community. Your photos and videos can help these dogs and cats find their forever homes with people who will treat them with the love and care they deserve. 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. To make donations via PayPal, select the “Donate” option on our Facebook page www.facebook.

MARSOL FRIDAY MARKET OPEN EVERY FRIDAY 9:30-1:30 P.M. SPECIALTY FOODS TO GO OR EAT IN ART, CRAFTS, SOUVENIRS, JEWELRY, BEACH WEAR, CLOTHING, ACCESSORIES, OPTICAL SERVICES BY LOCAL VENDORS MARSOL HOTEL LOBBY

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. 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.

Arts and Crafts Fair Every Friday in June

uring the month of June there will be a special showing of art and crafts by local artisans in various media in the lobby of the Marsol Hotel on Fridays from 9:30 to 1:30 p.m. You will find beautiful original oil paintings, acrylics and watercolors at very special prices as well as art cards and prints. Unusual sculpture, decorative masks, and a variety of handicrafts that you won`t find anywhere else will be available. One of a kind creations in artistic jewelry will add a dramatic touch to your outfit. Other special items for your enjoyment are tasty food; pastries, homemade bread, pizza, sausage, chili and condiments and more.

news

Jalisco election results signal major shift in Mexican politics By Duncan Tucker

The rise of the Citizens Movement The liberal Citizens Movement claimed a series of landslide victories in Guadalajara, Mexico’s second biggest metropolis, and across much of Jalisco. Citizens Movement candidate Enrique Alfaro beat the PRI’s Ricardo Villanueva by more than 25 percentage points to become Guadalajara’s first non-PRI or PAN (National Action Party) mayor since the 1920s. “It’s a historic result. I don’t know how long it’s been since there was a victory of this magnitude,” Alfaro said in a press conference Sunday night. The Citizens Movement prevailed in five of the eight municipalities that comprise the Guadalajara metropolitan area, as well as winning in Puerto Vallarta, a major tourist city on Jalisco’s Pacific Coast. The results highlighted the public sense of discontent at the centrist PRI, which now risks losing the Jalisco governorship in the 2018 elections. The elections also marked the end of the right-wing PAN’s relevance in the region – a remar-

Puerto Vallarta, A Growing Medical And Wellness Travel Destination by Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board

reliminary counts indicate that President Enrique Peña Nieto’s Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) is on course to retain a slim majority in the federal congress after Sunday’s midterm elections, but results in several local contests have shown that cracks are beginning to form in Mexico’s political establishment. Jaime “El Bronco” Rodríguez was widely hailed for becoming the nation’s first independent governor by claiming the northern state of Nuevo León, although his outsider credentials have been questioned, because he previously served in the PRI for 30 years and unsuccessfully sought the party’s candidacy ahead of this year’s elections. Arguably the most surprising and significant results came in the western state of Jalisco, where two relatively new political forces focused on enhancing transparency and civic engagement won historic victories.

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kable turnaround, given that Jalisco was considered a PAN stronghold and one of Mexico’s most conservative states as recently as five years ago. Alfaro previously served as mayor of Tlajomulco, a workingclass district on the southern outskirts of Guadalajara, where he led Mexico’s most transparent administration, according to nonprofit accountability watchdog Cimtra. Having achieved great popularity by enhancing public engagement in politics in Tlajomulco, Alfaro has promised to introduce a “participatory budget” in Guadalajara that enables citizens to vote on what their taxes should be spent on. He has also vowed to voluntarily submit to referendums that enable voters to call new elections midway through his term if unhappy with his performance. Such measures could set new standards for participatory democracy in a country where many voters have a strong distrust of the current political system. Alfaro’s administration will still be viewed with a sense of suspicion by some given that he – like Rodríguez – began his career in the PRI and also represented the left-wing PRD before joining forces with the Citizens Movement. Kumamoto: Walls do Fall But there are no such concerns about Pedro Kumamoto, a 25-year-old college graduate who on Sunday became the first independent candidate to win a seat in the Jalisco state congress. “Walls do fall” proved an apt slogan for Kumamoto, as he

pulled off a historic victory that few would have thought possible when he and a dozen companions founded the grassroots Wikipolítica movement just three years ago. Kumamoto’s triumph was all the more impressive given the fact that, as an independent candidate, he was allocated far fewer promotional spots on local TV and radio and received just18,626 pesos ($1,200) in public funding, less than two percent of the campaign spending limit of 1.3 million pesos ($84,000). In contrast with the major parties that receive and spend millions in public funding and often still exceed campaign spending limits, Kumamoto relied largely on donations, including small quantities of cash, a box of apples and even the proceeds of a cupcake sale by an eightyear-old sympathizer. “Kumamoto’s campaign should definitely open the debate over the excessive public funding for political parties,” one observer commented on Twitter after his unprecedented win. Kumamoto has vowed to give up 70 percent of his salary to fund civic forums on the most pressing issues in Zapopan District 10, the area that he will represent in the state congress. Taking constant feedback from those who elected him is crucial to making local politics more effective, he said this week: “The best I can do is to have one foot on the street and the other one in congress.”

Original: latincorrespondent.com

uerto Vallarta’s combination of world-class tourism offerings with a traditional Mexican Pueblo sets the international destination apart, but it is its natural surroundings - the lush Sierra Madre mountains and the warm waters of Bay of Banderas that provide the perfect sanctuary for travelers in search of Medical Tourism or a Wellness-focused vacation. Spas have become emblematic of the international wellness movement as travelers tend to include massages, body treatments, meditation and yoga classes and other health related activities within their travel plans. Puerto Vallarta is home to hundreds of spas offering all types of treatments that will help rejuvenate and stimulate the mind, body and soul amidst beautiful and relaxing surroundings. Hotel Spas such as the Marriott’s CasaMagna Ohtli, Secrets Spa by Pevonia offers guests the latest in international techniques and services while Terra Noble offers alternative treatments amidst the calming natural sounds of the Sierra Madre. For those looking to be submerged in a healthy lifestyle, Puerto Vallarta’s newest property, Hotel Mousai offers a wellness program with its Spa Imagine. The nurturing, self- awareness retreat was developed in collaboration with the Mindfulhabits project to provide guests with the ability to make simple and active lifestyle choices for a healthier being. During the month of June, the property will be hosting June Wellness, an innovative wellness retreat where guests will be able to partake in special classes, including power yoga, Vinyasa flow, Pilates, dance, swim, running and paddle boarding. Wellness specialists, including Mindfulhabits founder Karoll S Gonzalez, will also offer lectures, workshops and personal treatments to encourage the healthy lifestyle in mind, body and soul. Special menus will also be provided including natural juices, smoothies and more. Similarly, Westin Puerto Vallarta is taking part in the hotel brand’s Westin Well-Being Movement, a global initiative dedicated

to inspiring guests to discover new approaches to wellness. The Movement features innovative partnerships and programs across Westin’s six pillars of wellbeing: Sleep Well, Eat Well, Move Well, Feel Well, Work Well and Play Well. For visitors looking for medical treatments, Puerto Vallarta is home to state-of-the-art facilities, specialized in medical tourism, where internationally renowned doctors offer plastic surgery, dental treatments, orthopedics, insemination in vitro, stem cells, bariatric surgery, oncology, hemodialysis and ophthalmology treatments. The AmeriMed Vallarta Hospital and the San Javier Puerto Vallarta Hospital are located in the heart of the Hotel Zone and are known for their quality of service experienced multidisciplinary teams trained to use cutting-edge technology to deliver integrated services and guarantee the best attention to all of its patients. The destination will further cement its status as a Medical and Wellness destination in December as it hosts the Mexico Health & Wellness Travel Show from December 7th to 9th, 2015. With 300 participants and over 3,000 B-2-B meetings, it is one of the largest international medical tourism conferences. Taking place in the Puerto Vallarta International Convention Center, the show brings the best national and international experts to share their vision on global trends in the medical tourism industry and discuss new ideas, treatments and procedures in an interactive environment that fosters innovative management, marketing and sustainability solutions. Participants will also have a chance to talk and interact with physicians and CEOs of prestigious international firms and medical facilities and the movers and shakers of the medical tourism industry.

news

Jun 18 - 24, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Government Sets Rules for Bids on Oil Projects

Mexico Inflation Falls to New Low

he Mexican government has published the final rules and the model contract for bidding in Round One of the oil industry auction. The date for presenting offers is July 15, the Finance and Public Credit Secretariat, the Energy Secretariat and the National Hydrocarbons Commission, or CNH, said in a joint statement. The bids in this phase will cover exploration and production in shallow waters. The initial rules and model contract were published on Dec. 11, the agencies said. The first phase of Round One includes 14 shallow-water exploration blocks in a 4,222-sq.-kilometer (1,630-sq.-mile) area off the coasts of the southeastern states of Veracruz, Tabasco and Campeche. “Over the course of these months, adjustments were made to the guidelines and the model contract in an effort to achieve better conditions for the

Mexican state and, at the same time, offer more competitive arrangements for the domestic and international actors interested in participating in this first round of bidding,” the agencies said. A Web site – http://ronda1.gob.mx – provides detailed information about the auction, the statement said.

State marriage laws ruled unconstitutional

arriage cannot be defined based on procreation, Supreme Court rules. Same-sex marriage has earned legal recognition throughout Mexico following a ruling by the Supreme Court of Justice (SCJN). State civil codes that define marriage as “the union between a man and a woman, with the only purpose being procreation” have been ruled unconstitutional. Leticia Bonifaz, the director general of Education, Promotion and Development of Human Rights at the SCJN, said the decision was based on all the previous cases in which judges had ruled in favor of marriages between people of the same sex. “The sheer number of resolutions of exemption or injunctions (amparos) in favor of same-sex marriages allowed for a case to be established, and made it possible for the judges to rule accordingly,” said Bonifaz. In the court’s words: “It is unconstitutional for [state] laws to consider that the sole purpose of marriage is procreation, and/or to define marriage as the union of a man and a woman.” The resolution clarifies that to define marriage based on a narrow term such as procreation undermines its true end, the protection of families as a social reality. “Defining marriage by the

purpose of procreation limits the access to this social institution by the sexual orientation of those interested in it, as that definition excludes homosexual couples that in every other aspect are equal to heterosexual couples. We find this discriminatory,” judges wrote. According to the definition of marriage as it has stood until now, infertile or elderly couples could also be denied the opportunity to marry, as procreation wouldn’t be an option. The court concluded that no rule, decision or practice of internal laws, either by state authorities or individuals, should diminish or restrict a person’s rights based on their sexual orientation. The next step, says a spokesman for the Oaxacan Front for the Respect and Recognition of Sexual Diversity, is legal reform because until state laws are amended same-sex couples will have to turn to the courts if denied the right to marry. However, the ruling means that a judge would have to rule in favor of the couple. “The resolution forces federal judges to grant injunctions [to same-sex couples],” Alex Alí Méndez Díaz told Mexico News Daily. “We’ll have to wait and see what local civil registries do. The next, ideal step is to reform state civil and family codes, on a state

by state basis . . .” “Alternatively, the case of Chihuahua could be repeated, where the state governor instructed that same-sex marriages be allowed. We’ll have to wait and see how each state reacts to new marriage applications.” In 2010, Mexico City became the first city in the country to legalize same-sex marriage. Since then, the SCJN determined that state congresses were entitled to legislate accordingly. The states of Coahuila and Quintana Roo have since approved marriage equality laws. Since 2012, gay and lesbian couples have been battling the right to marriage equality case by case, winning exemptions in states such as Oaxaca, Sinaloa, Colima, State of México, Jalisco and, just this week, Chihuahua. The National Council to Prevent Discrimination (Conapred) sees the court’s resolution as historic and represents progress towards marriage equality, recognizing and legitimizing the rights of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community in Mexico. “This resolution will allow states to recognize same-sex unions. It’s a great step forward in the fight to highlight and grant protection to the fundamental rights of all people, building a society with full liberties and rights,” the council said in a statement. Source: NotiEse (sp), El Universal (sp) Original: mexiconewsdaily.com

exico consumer prices fell 0.50% in May versus April. Market expectations were for a decline of 0.47%, while core inflation was in line with market expectations at 0.12%. On a 12-month basis headline inflation fell to 2.9% from 3.1% in April, the lowest print in modern history. Meanwhile, 12-month core inflation was 2.3% in May, unchanged versus April. By item, low annual inflation prints are the norm: approximately 53% of items in the core inflation index have annual inflation readings below 3.0% (44% in the case of non-core items). Also, just 23% of core items have annual inflation readings of 4.0% or higher. Pass-through to inflation from peso weakness has remained very modest. Annual core goods inflation was 2.4% in May, while cumulative inflation through May was just 1.1%. In May, average monthly inflation of core foodstuffs was just 0.18%, down from 0.45% in May 2014 and from the average of 0.39% for the

month of May between 2011 and 2014 (using seasonally adjusted data of all core foodstuff price indices). In the case of core goods ex-food, average inflation in May was 0.22%, up only slightly from 0.17% in May 2014. As expected, core goods posting the highest inflation readings yearto-date are those in which imports are particularly high: They include bicycles and motorcycles (up 5.9% year-to-date), kitchen ranges (5.4%), mattresses (4.4%) and kitchen furniture (4.4%). Year-overyear price increases of these items are 6.3%, 9.3%, 5.7% and 3.7%, respectively, which in all cases are smaller than the depreciation of the peso in this period (15.4%). These results would leave annual headline and core inflation readings unchanged at 2.8% and 2.3%, respectively. The central bank’s inflation target is on headline at 3.0% with a variability interval of 100bps around it.

Original: lath.com

Ex-first lady declares for presidency in 2018

ormer first lady Margarita Zavala announced Saturday she would run for president in 2018 by seeking the nomination as the National Action Party (PAN) candidate. The wife of former president Felipe Calderón said in a video published on her Twitter account that the economy and rule of law were two important themes, but noted there was “an enormous gap” between politicians and the people. She also said she would reach out not just to PAN supporters but also to those who have supported other parties or simply stopped believing in them. There were indications of a rift between Zavala and the PAN leadership in January after she was denied a spot on a “safe list” of seats to be awarded in the lower house by proportional representation. In last week’s elections, the candidate said, Mexicans demonstrated a high level of civic responsibility by going out to vote for change, punishing bad governments by voting for alternatives, new groupings or independent candidates. A source close to the Calderón family

was quoted by one observer as saying that Zavala was motivated to announce her run by the election of an independent governor, Jaime Rodríguez Calderón, in Nuevo León. The speculation is that if the party doesn’t accept her, she will herself run as an independent. Zavala declared her allegiance to the party in a radio interview following her announcement: “I’m a Panista,” but expressed the hope that the party would engage in some deep reflection and change many of its processes. PAN did not fare well in the elections, its support dropping five percentage points to 21% and its seats in the Chamber of Deputies reduced to 108 from 114. Zavala, 47, studied law at the Escuela Libre de Derecho in Mexico City, and married Calderón in 1993. She was elected as a PAN deputy in the lower house of Congress in 2006, the same year her husband was elected president. Source: El Universal (sp), Milenio (sp) Original: mexiconewsdaily.com

local

Jun 18 - 24, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Paradise

and Parenting Leza Warkentin mommyinmexico.wordpress.com

Kindergarten Graduation

W Saving a million turtles… one egg at a time By John Warren

efore 1900 there were over ten million Olive Ridley turtles nesting on the Pacific coast of Mexico. Since then the numbers have fallen to desperately low levels and now the turtles are rated as “endangered” by International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources. They are considered to be facing a very high risk of extinction, which, considering that they have been on planet Earth for about 200 million years, is a dreadful reflection on the cause of their destruction - Humans! But on the beaches of San Pancho, Frank Smith and his band of unpaid volunteers are winning small, annual battles by recovering and hatching eggs and then releasing thousands of hatchlings back to the ocean every year. Frank has been the Director of Grupo Ecolólogico de la Costa Verde since 1992 and, in 2015, he expects to release the project’s millionth hatchling back to ocean. So there is hope for the Olive Ridleys in this area. There is strong demand for turtle eggs in Mexico. Bakers and pastry chefs say that the eggs are much richer than chicken’s eggs and that they make much better cakes and pastries, so these people are willing to pay exorbitant prices for them. The eggs are also believed to improve a man’s virility because the male and female turtles copu-

late for between 24 and 72 hours and some people think that trait is transferable. If it is, then Viagra just doesn’t cut it by comparison! As a result, Olive Ridley eggs sell for up to $1.00USD each on the streets of Guadalajara and Mexico City. A night’s work of poaching perhaps five nests with 100 eggs in each, means a street price of $100 to $500USD. Very rewarding! Although Olive Ridleys are protected, there is fierce competition for the eggs between the poachers and the protectors from this conservation program. Each night from early June to mid-December there is a chance that turtles will come ashore to lay their eggs, so every night the volunteers patrol the beaches between 9:00pm and 8:00am and scoop up the 100 or so eggs that each female has laid and take all of them back to the turtle hatchery. Here they are kept, covered in sand, in temperature and moisture controlled conditions for about 45 days. Then they hatch. On release nights the hatchlings start their fight for survival but the chances are slim. It is estimated that for every six hundred that are released only one will make it to sexual maturity. Hatchlings start life with a hundred yard dash (waddle) across the sand to the ocean. Before they reach the sea they must open their tiny lungs before getting to the water; otherwise they will drown. During this first stage they are on the

menu of gulls, crabs, wild animals and dogs. Once they reach the Pacific they have a journey of about 25 Kms ahead of them to the kelp beds that will be their home for the next ten years or so. The journey is fraught with danger from gulls, frigates and pelicans above and from tuna, dorado and sailfish below. If they reach the kelp they’ll feed on the algae, crabs, shrimp and mollusks there and will grow to between 45kgs and 60kgs. The life of the male turtles is a mystery, but we do know that female Olive Ridleys reach sexual maturity between eleven and fifteen years of age and they decide to mate only when all their environmental cues, such as fat, strength and general health, align. They mate with one or more males and can hold the male’s sperm for three to five years before allowing it to fertilize her eggs. At that time she hauls herself up on the beach close to where she was born, digs a nest in the sand and starts the life cycle all over again. Grupo Ecológico de la Costa Verde and its great work of protecting this fascinating neighbour of ours depends entirely on public donations. If you would like to help please visit www.project-tortuga. org/contribute.html and make a donation or, if you have a few weeks to help, volunteer. With our combined help perhaps we can save this extraordinary animal from extinction.

hen I turned six and it was time to graduate from kindergarten, I made my own hat out of construction paper. We sang a song that I think was about ducks and they handed me a handwritten diploma. They also gave me a Popsicle, which I understand was standard kindergarten graduation issue in those days. There’s a picture of my class in drooping paper hats. I’m holding a diploma and wearing a flowered dress, both liberally stained with orange Popsicle juice. And I look absolutely thrilled about the whole situation. These days, kindergarten graduations involve a bit more pomp and circumstance. As a matter of fact, we play “Pomp and Circumstance” at our graduation. Our children don’t just get a Popsicle, they get a brunch. When I was six, I didn’t know what brunch was, although I’m certain I would have gladly eaten one. I am a kindergarten teacher, and so this is an event I plan. But I find the day of graduation to be a little stressful, and I’ll tell you why. Even if you don’t have a calendar, you will be able to know that we have reached the date of our annual Kindergarten graduation at the American School of Puerto Vallarta. Here are some handy signs: 1) A hurricane threatens to pour several inches of rain directly into our town. 2) If the hurricane passes, it is the hottest day of the year so far. 3) The electricity goes out around 9am that day. I know I sound like a doomsday prophet, but it’s pretty easy to predict these things if they never fail to happen. Weather conditions in Vallarta this time of year resemble Old Testament times so closely that prophets in those days would have made a decent living here. Nevertheless, this is to be the moment I have been looking forward to all year. I have done what some would

call impossible: I have turned a group of twenty preschoolers into a class of primary school children. It’s a proud moment, it’s a milestone, and chances are I will spend the entire ceremony fighting back an ugly cry. I am not struggling with tears because I am sad. I adore my students but I can tell you that by June, these people need to go to primary. They are brilliant and want to show the world. And I am ready to let them go and show their next teacher what a great job I did. No, I’m not crying because I want to keep them with me. I am crying for the following reasons: 1) I am thinking about how I hope I don’t cry this time. 2) They are wearing adorable little caps and gowns. LITTLE CAPS AND GOWNS. This is kindergarten teacher kryptonite. 3) I just watched my class of little guys walk up the aisle to “Pomp and Circumstance”, trying so hard to look grown up and dignified, but 90% of them have their hats on backwards because they like it better. 4) I am remembering the time they forgot how to read “the” after 4 months of constant discussion about the word “the” (yes, it’s unfortunately possible to discuss the word “the”), but now they all read that word and so very many more. 5) One of my students has just asked me, using the big, batting eyes, “But who will take care of us next year?” Aw C’MON kid, you’re killing me. 6) I just handed a diploma to a munchkin and he hugged me around my legs instead of the dignified handshake. I loved it. 7) I am reminded, once again, how important it is to be passionate about what you do. And how wonderful it is to love those with whom you spend your days. Congratulations to all of our graduates here in the Bay! May your dreams come true, as abundantly as there were Popsicles melting in the hand of every child in the spring of 1979.

local

Playing Tourist for a Day All About the

Resort Day Pass

Jun 18 - 24, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

How to make U.S. Tax Deductible Contributions to Mexican Charities

By Fabien Madesclaire and Ariel O’Donnell

by Orlando Gotay, Tax Attorney

If you have real estate questions, or want to know more about local properties, contact Fabien anytime at G3MEX Real Estate Group email: Fabien@g3mex.com. G3MEX is currently looking for talented agents to become part of our team.

Orlando Gotay is a California licensed tax attorney (with a Master of Laws in Taxation) admitted to practice before the IRS, the U.S. Tax Court and other taxing agencies. His love of things Mexican has led him to devote part of his practice to the tax matters of U.S. expats in Mexico. He can be reached at tax@orlandogotay.com.

fabien@g3mex.com

o you’re hot, bored and a little grumpy. A day pass at one of our local resorts just might be what the doctor ordered. Day passes often include one-day access to a hotel’s pool, beach, towel service, drinks and dining. If you’re a local, you may also be eligible for even more discounts. Don’t forget to sign-up for group discounts from Cupo-City, at http:// cupocity.com/ as they regularly run day pass specials during the low season. Here are some of our favorite day pass options. Be sure to contact facilities in advance to confirm that day passes are available. Downtown Playa Los Arcos Hotel Beach http://www.playalosarcos.com/ Day Pass includes: Use of Beach Club, towel service, lounge chairs at the pool, swimming pool, jacuzzi, umbrellas and restaurant service. The fee will buy you $15 USD in food and beverages, a discount at any of their boutiques and a discount off normal prices at the spa All Inclusive Day Pass: Pass includes: Use of the Beach Club, towel service, lounge chairs at the pool, swimming pool, jacuzzi, umbrellas and restaurant service. The fee will buy you breakfast (including the buffet) access to the snack bar and domestic drink bar. You’ll also receive discount at any of their boutiques and a discount off normal price at the spa. Hotel Zone Puerto de Luna http://www.puertodeluna.com/ For the more budget conscious. You can bring your own food and lounge around the pool. And they are pet-friendly, so fluffy can hang out with you!! The Hacienda Buenaventura http://www.haciendaonline.com. Day Pass: $450 MX per person.

Children 12 and under receive a discount. Enjoy the hotel facilities from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. Pass includes use of the pool, beach club, with meals included in your fee. Marina Vallarta Casa Magna Marriot: http://www.marriott.com/hotels/ The pass allows access to pools restaurants and the beach. With the pass you will get a refund towards food at one of their restaurants. The day pass is valid from 11:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and can be purchased at the front desk. South Shore Costa Sur Vallarta: www.costasurpuertovallarta.com/ Day pass: Children 12 and under receive a discount. Check out discounts for locals. Pass includes: Full breakfast, snacks, open bar, use of pools and private beach and towel service. Mismaloya Hotel Barcelo: http://www.barcelo.com/BarceloHotels/es_ES/hoteles/Mexico/ Puerto-Vallarta-Jalisco/hotel-barcelo-puer to-vallar ta/descr ip cion-general.aspx Day Pass includes: Free food, drinks, access to the pools. Too, the beach at Mismaloya offers lots

of amusements, including sailing and snorkeling. Casa Iguana All Suites Hotel: casaiguana.com.mx Day Pass:includes pool but no beach access. The day pass includes a hamburger and a beverage. Children get a special meal and beverage, as well. North Shore Rancho Banderas: http://www.ranchobanderas.com/ specials/day-pass/ Day pass includes: Food and beverages, access to pools, showers and beach club. Recreational activities such as aquaerobics, pool and beach volleyball Matlali Hotel: http://www.matlali.com/ With the pass you receive a credit towards food and beverages and access to the pools (not the beachfront). For an additional amount enjoy a massage at their spa.

If you have real estate questions, or want to know more about local properties, contact Fabien anytime at G3MEX Real Estate Group email: Fabien@g3mex.com. Or visit us in our new office in Old Town on Calle Amapas, right near the Hotel Emperador.

Most Americans know that a donation made to a “501(c)(3)” organization can result in a deduction against federal income tax. Few know, that under the U.S.Mexico tax treaty, a U.S. person may be able to take a U.S. deduction for contributions made to some Mexican charities. I’m not talking U.S. charities that do charitable work in Mexico…I’m talking Mexicana charities. Here’s an opportunity for you to significantly expand the scope of your charitable activities, and be rewarded with an income tax deduction by Uncle Sam and possibly Mexico, too. The U.S. Tax Treaty specifies that Mexican authorities can designate, from among their own list of charities, those that essentially meet the U.S. 501(c)(3) requirement and can be considered as if they were U.S. charities. The SAT (Mexican equivalent of the IRS) publishes a regularly updated list of its approved Mexican public charities. As a subsection lists the Mexican charities designated as equivalents under the Treaty. And that’s the magical word. For a Mexican entity to be eligible to receive your U.S. deductible donation, it must be on the special section that specifically lists the entity as eligible for

“Foreign donations”. As of January 2015, there were only 40 entities in all of Mexico that were eligible. This is important, because claiming a U.S. deduction for a charitable contribution to a Mexican organization that is not authorized to do so will lead to a denial of the deduction. Once you have ascertained your organization is on the list, there’s a couple more hoops to go through to get the deduction: Your donation cannot exceed your Mexican source income, plus one has to meet all the regular U.S. income tax limitations on charitable contributions. Consult your tax advisor or IRS Pub. 526. You have Mexican source income, right? Rental income, income from a trade or business carried on in Mexico, or even the sale of real property in Mexico are examples of income that is sourced in Mexico…but there can be many others. Do you earn Mexico royalties from a book you wrote? Please note: There are many Mexican organizations that are charities for regular Mexican tax, and very likely one is allowed a Mexican deduction against Mexican income tax for donations made to them. Just know there is a difference…a big difference indeed.

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

The Heart of Vallarta By Barbara Peters

he Centro Historico or downtown area is the heart of our beautiful city and where it all started. There you will find the charming plaza centered with the old fashioned bandstand where the municipal band plays every Thursday and Sunday nights, which is across from our famous crowned church of Our Señora de Guadalupe. The City Hall is on one side of the main plaza where the Tourist Department is located with loads of information about what to do in

Flower of the week

Vallarta. Across from the main plaza is Los Arcos Outdoor Theater that offers free live entertainment on many nights. Also if you walk up Guerrero Street you will come to the Gringo Gulch area where the first foreign residents built their homes along the Rio Cuale as a result of fame brought to our city by Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton and many more film stars. You can walk on the street behind the church to arrive at Los Cuatro Vientos Hotel and restaurant, where these stars gathered to dine and enjoy the fabulous view of

the city. The renowned restaurants such as Café des Artistes, Trio, Hacienda San Angel, El Arrayan, and Barcelona Tapas are all located in this area. As I was walking around downtown today I was happy to see many more tourists visiting the shops and restaurants. There is something very special about this area, a feeling of nostalgia for the small town we once were but which still offers most things you would find in the center of small towns around the world. As owner of an art gallery in the heart of Vallarta since 1989, I have been accustomed to shopping in the central area for clothing,

Sandra Cesca

Madagascar Periwinkle / Teresitas (Spanish) Catharanthus roseus

inca. A perennial herbaceous ornamental with numerous cultivars spreading to 2.5 feet. Grows easily in poor soil like sidewalks and cracks in walls. Flowers in many shades of pink, red, lilac, and white. Some apply leaves or petals directly to the skin to stop bleeding, relieve insect bites, wasp stings, and eye irritation, infections and swelling. Chinese medicine extracts have been used to treat diabetes, malaria, and Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Plant contains over 70 alkaloids, including vincristine currently used for cancer treatment. This plant is one of over 200 found in Sandra’s color-coded guidebook, Tropical Plants and

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

jewelry, fabrics, art supplies, handicrafts, drug and nutrition products, printing, copies, custom T shirts, groceries, cafes, restaurants, ice cream, travel agencies, appliances, the artisan markets, art galleries, pottery, leather goods, even hardware, all within a few blocks walking distance. Parking on the street is difficult to find but there is a parking garage on Morelos St. near everything, buses run constantly and you never have to wait long for a passing taxi. Many people who visit Puerto Vallarta only know the Centro Historico from a tour bus window or perhaps walking on the Malecon, but miss the flavor and ambience

of the inside streets. There you will experience true friendliness of the local residents and merchants and get a feeling of the real Mexico. Check online for the Vallarta Shopping Directory which offers information about most of the downtown and southside businesses with photos, information about their products and contact information, in 20 different categories. http://vallartashoppingdirectory. blogspot.com or www.vallartadininng-shopping.com The motto of the Centro Historico has always been “The heart of shopping, dining, culture and fun” so help preserve this area by getting to know this area.

More info about PuertoVallartaDining-Shopping.com

og on to this informative website to find the hours, telephone numbers, reservation information and photos of Vallarta`s best restaurants and businesses. This website is continuously updated to ensure the information is up to date. This service is designed to help assist residents and visitors to easily find what

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

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

they are seeking in 20 different categories. We are adding an event calendar to the site to let people know about our many special activities in town. If you have any questions, comments or would like to participate on this website please contact us at puertovallartashoppingguide@gmail.com

sports

Jun 18 - 24, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Random Thoughts from the Tribune sports Desks By Joel Hansen

urricane Carlos or tropical storm Carlos or whatever we are calling him sure is messing with my tennis game. It’s a hobby I was recently re-introduced to and I have to admit, I have become pretty obsessed with it. You can find me huffing and puffing around the courts at the Sheraton or any other courts I can beg my way onto here in PV, playing (badly) 3-4 times a week and doing my best to catch up in talent to some of the fairly excellent local players. I even started taking lessons a couple times a week. Currently my instructor and I are working on my serve, which when I showed her (my serve) for the first time, she put her hands to her head and exclaimed “Dios Mio Joel! Porque?” When I was kid growing up on the farm back in Wartburg, Ontario there wasn’t many opportunities to play proper tennis. But I had a heavy old metal racket and would load it and three or four crappy tennis balls (that also served as road hockey pucks) into an A&P grocery bag, jump on my BMX and ride to the local elementary school about 5km away. It was the closest place to the family farm that had any amount of concrete worth discussing.

Once there I would bang those beat up tennis balls against the brick wall of the gymnasium for hours on end, imagining I was John McEnroe battling Ivan Lendl for the French or U.S. Open title. Because of the lack of public courts in this country, Mexicans play a very similar game, except they use a racquetball. In PV, they play in the courts behind the baseball stadium and those courts are always full. From sun up when the old-timers meet to get a match in before it gets

too hot to the teenagers yelling and laughing, I can hear the sound of the ball hitting the wall well after midnight every single night, unless of course we have a tropical disturbance like old Carlos. I don’t miss much about living in Canada, and I do not spend much time drawing comparisons between my former country and my adopted one. However, one thing that I do love about Canada and wish we could replicate here, is the amount of public tennis courts available, many

Adorable Dog In The Spotlight... CASH

his little guy is one of those cute “unique” breeds we run across occasionally. Cash is around two and a half years old and a sweet Corgi-Beagle mix. He has this delightful habit of expressing his joy when being snuggled…it’s a cross between a purr and a deep grumble! A bit shy upon meeting, once he warms up he is very affectionate and playful. Cash is also good with other dogs as long as they aren’t too aggressive. He has been neutered, dewormed and is current on all his vaccinations. Contact us to adopt Cash at spcapv@gmail.com.

of which barely get used. I think if there was more public access tennis available Mexico would be able to produce more top players; you need to only look to Argentina, a country that has many public courts and has produced dozens of ATP players including a Grand Slam winner in Gabriela Sabatini. Since most of my friends are way better than me, I am always looking for a new playing partner, let me know if you want to play and I would be happy to bang it around with you.

Next week I will fill you in on my new baseball team. That’s right! I have jumped ship from the Mighty Marineros and have formed a team with a bunch of local drunks and degenerates. The Los Muertos Brewers are the latest team to enter the Liga de Softball de Puerto Vallarta and despite some tight hamstrings and sore rotator cuffs, this squad looks ready to take the league by storm. Be sure to visit Los Muertos Brewing for more information on the next team autograph signing.

Emergencies: 060 Red Cross: 065 Non-Emergency Police 322.290.0507 Fire Department: 322.223.9476 Ambulance: 322.222.1533

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

Immigration: 322.224.7719 Consumer Protection: 01.800.468.8722 Tourism Offices Jalisco: 322.221.2676 Nayarit: 322.297.1006

Canadian Consulate 322.293.2894 24 hrs: 1.800.706.2900

riviera nayarit

Jun 18 - 24, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

The Beach Cleanup Network Turns One 55th International Sportfi-

shing Tournament in San Blas

• It’s been a great year: over 650 volunteers, 20 cleanup groups, more than 7 thousand trash bags collected… and it keeps growing! The Riviera Nayarit’s Beach Cleanup Network (RLP by its acronym in Spanish) is celebrating its first year of activity along the coast of Nayarit, including its beaches, rivers, islands and streams. The Riviera Nayarit Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) would like to thank each and every one of the citizens who have participated in this effort. “We’re very surprised and grateful for the excellent response we’ve received from area citizens,” commented Marc Murphy, Managing Director of the Riviera Nayarit CVB. “We were aware of the need to clean the beaches

and that’s why we took the initiative and joined the pioneers of this very successful network. All we can do is thank those who have participated and stress that we will continue the work moving forward.” Every cleanup event has collected an average of 500 large black garbage bags for an estimated seven thousand bags this year alone. The RPL is made up of more than twenty groups including civil associations, schools, hotels and private businesses. The areas that have benefited from this community effort to date are: Nuevo Vallarta, Bucerías, La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, Punta de Mita, Las Islas Marietas, Sayulita, San Pancho, Lo de Marcos, Los Ayala, Rincón de Guayabitos, La Peñita de Jaltemba, Platanitos and La Isla Mexcaltitán.

The Riviera Nayarit CVB provides the materials and coordinates the groups so the activity can take place on the second Saturday of every month; the next event is scheduled for June 13, 2015. New groups continue to join the network, including Sayulimpia, backed by the Punta Mita Foundation. They will be cleaning the Guamuchil River, which empties into the ocean. For more information and comments, if you’re interested in more details about the project including the hours and meeting places or would like to propose your community join the Riviera Nayarit Beach Cleanup Network, please call 2 97 25 16 ext. 108, and someone from the Riviera Nayarit CVB will be happy to help you.

The Riviera Nayarit’s Mixology Takes Center Stage In The World’s 50 Best Restaurants • Mexico was well represented on the world stage with the Sangre Cora, Macho Margarita and Mezcal In The Beach cocktails, which pleased even the most demanding palates. The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2015 event that took place in London earlier this month showcased a special guest: Israel Díaz, the Riviera Nayarit’s Mixology Ambassador, who charmed the attendees with his “Evolutionary Cocktails.”

He was invited to the event on behalf of the Mexico Tourism Board (MTB) to represent Mexico and carry with him the flavors of the Riviera Nayarit, thus positioning both the destination and the country on this global platform. “We promoted the destination through regional cocktails using the diversity of fresh fruit that flourishes in the fertile soil of Nayarit. We also featured our Huichol art, which was adapted to the cocktails’ names,” explained Israel Díaz.

Hundreds of invitees to the Welcome Cocktail as well as those who attended the postevents loved Israel’s specialty drinks: Sangre Cora, Macho Margarita and Mezcal In The Beach. “The Riviera Nayarit’s mixology was very well received by the attendees and every mix was a great success. The organizers were so pleased they even commented that this event was better than any of the previous ones,” added Diaz

• The Mexican Pacific’s top fishing tournament is set to play out in the Riviera Nayarit once again, this time accompanied by the 6th Annual Children’s Sportfishing Tournament in celebration of Father’s Day. The 55th Annual Sportfishing Tournament in San Blas is back from June 17-21 with the slogan “55 Years of Big Time Fishing,” organized by the Tepic Sportfishing Club. The Historic Port of San Blas will welcome 50 teams with anglers from 15 states within the Mexican Republic as well as from beyond the borders. The boats will set sail in search of the largest Sailfish, Mahi-Mahi and Marlin in the area, reeling in top honors and valuable prizes. There are also two special awards available, one for whoever breaks the record in the Sailfish category and the other is a raffle for a new car. The purse includes nine auto-

mobiles, as well as boat motors, cash prizes, professional fishing equipment and more. 6th Annual Children’s Sportfishing Tournament The 6th Annual Children’s Sportfishing Tournament will also take place on Sunday, June 21st for boys and girls from 5 to 11 years of age; they will be divided into three categories. The fishing starts at the Marina FONATUR promptly at 7:30 a.m. so the kids can enjoy Father’s Day with their dads. This tournament is free of charge, as is the fishing gear for children who don’t own a set. There will also be games, bouncy houses, food, music and fun hosts to liven up this family festival. Prizes for the children include bicycles, tablets and fishing rods in order to incentivize sport fishing in the younger generations. For more information visit www. clubdepescadeportivatepic.com

Final Lineup for St. Regis Punta Mita Annual Beach Festival

he St. Regis Punta Mita Resort has announced the final lineup and special guests that will be attending the third annual Punta Mita Beach Festival, which will take place July 9-12, 2015. The event is organized in conjunction with Punta Mita Expeditions, Punta Mita Resorts, and the Riviera Nayarit Convention & Visitors Bureau, and offers guests a variety of activities including surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, stand up paddle boarding, and yoga. The Punta Mita Beach Festival 2015 will begin with an opening cocktail followed by a range of guest activities and culinary events. The lineup of activities will include: - Beach yoga and family yoga - Surfing clinics for beginners by leading Mexican stand up paddle professional Javier Alvarez and professional surfer Scott Chandler - Mini Triathlon including sea swim, beach race, and SUP for beginners - SUP Bala Tula, a fusion of

yoga, Pilates, Budokon, body weight conditioning, and stand-up paddle boarding - 5 kilometer stand-up paddle race - Marine Safari to Marietas Islands, which includes snorkeling and stand up paddle - Sandcastle championship for kids - Volleyball tournaments at Sea Breeze Beach - Cooking lessons with celebrity chef Throughout the three-day festival, guests will enjoy meals prepared by special guest chefs. Beach bonfires in the evening will conclude each day, where guests will be offered Patrón Tequila and Montelobos Mezcal cocktails while listening to the sounds of DJ Mau. The festival will conclude with a Farewell Brunch and final swim in the Pacific Ocean. The third annual Punta Mita Beach Festival includes three nights’ accommodations, all scheduled activities and events, and all meals including non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages. Rates for the event package begin at $1,290.

riviera nayarit

Fun on the Riviera Nayarit By Cat Morgan

www.rivieranayaritfun.com

ummer Solstice Downwind Umbrella Regatta at the Marina Riviera Nayarit / La Cruz Marina Celebrate Summer Solstice/ Sailstice June 20, 2015 with the 3rd Annual Summer Downwind Umbrella Regatta! Who is ready for some fun and games on the water? And a BBQ potluck!? The event site will be at the La Cruz Marina entrance. Arrive at the Marina Entrance by 1:00pm for (FREE) registration. You must register to win a prize. (Prizes are from various restaurants in La Cruz & Bucerias.)

The game times are: 2:00pm

Umbrella Downwind Regatta, 4:00pm Crocodile Rally, 5:00pm SUP Polo Games (with Pacific Paddle Boards), and dance to classic rock at 5:00pm with Ajim & Alessandra. From 2:00pm - 6:00pm the Pad Thai Cart will be at the event site with delicious Thai dishes. Try one of their three types of curry dishes, ginger rice, cashew chicken, and of course pad thai. You may choose from shrimp, chicken or steak for each dish. You can purchase cold drinks at the provided by The Poolside Deli. Design your own vessel / rig!: Kayak, paddle board, dinghy or surf board. Umbrella or any design close enough to be able to capture the wind. Be creative on designing your vessel. No engines allowed! NOTE: Bring oars or any type of rudder

system for navigating. Open to all ages; everyone is welcome. The La Cruz summer fun is brought to you by Marina Riviera Nayarit, PV Sailing, The Pad Thai Cart, Pacific Paddle Boards & The Poolside Deli.

Other Fun Upcoming La Cruz Events: There is going to be a VW Riviera Festival 4th Edition on June 27th & 28th at the Marina Riviera Nayarit. The VW’s arrive on the 27th and park along the La Cruz malecon by the marina entrance. Sunday the 28th they have a show, music, games for kids and food with drinks being sold. This is a free event, so no tickets needed. There will be over 250 modified bugs, Jetta’s, sand buggies…come on down and check them out!

ON-Going La Cruz Summer Fun Every Tuesday Pub Britannia is still open for their OPEN MIC NIGHT. Come and jam out with The Turn and Mike Curlette. They have food and drink specials….A super nice time out on the large outdoor patio with plenty of dancing room! On Monday it’s Game Night, starting at 8pm. The kitchen is also open. Come on by and try your luck! Gecko Rojo La Cruz restaurant and bar is open all year around and Sharon creates all sorts of summer

fun for the locals! Every Monday and Thursday enjoy a friendly game of darts which begins at 5pm sharp. Sharon is also creating a fun 4th of July celebration. We will be keeping you posted as the event gets closer. If you love Caesars or Bloody Mary’s you have got to get in and try one of JC’s! Delicious indeed..filled with fun eats! A great summer menu at local summer pricing; Gecko Rojo is a fun summer hangout in La Cruz! Their Happy hour is every day from 6pm to 8pm…come on over! Have a fun weekend everyone! For any questions, comments or more information on rentals, restaurants, or if your business needs some advertising email me directly at Cat@CatMorgan.me. Enjoy life!!

Jun 18 - 24, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

cuisine

Jun 18 - 24, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Cuisines Of Jalisco, “Flavors Of The Bay” The bounty from the Pacific, a delight for the gods and those from Vallarta By Hector Pérez García Tourism and Gourmet Analyst, PV Tourism Board

tarting in Manzanillo and heading north, sailfish, abundant in these waters, is a popular fish. It is not common to the rest of the coast. It is prepared just as other large fish, as steaks. The texture is similar to tuna and it can be barbecued or grilled. Marlin, a similarly-sized relative is more popular in Banderas Bay and commonly eaten to the north in the state of Nayarit. Smoked, cut into pieces and in a stew with carrots and peas (that gives it a touch of sweetness) it is delicious in tacos with freshly-made tortillas. The bounty of the ocean characterizes this coastal area Ceviche is typical all along the coast; fresh fish, chopped and marinated in lime juice combined with grated carrots, chopped onions and green chile. When it is prepared with fresh swordfish and shaved rather than chopped, it is extraordinary. Sometimes, a little bit of mayonnaise is added to bring all the ingredients together. It is served on crispy tortilla “tostadas” and is a favorite of both locals and visitors. “Zarandeado” style fish, is seasoned with a special adobo and grilled over wood. Its quality depends on the type of fish being prepared. Sea bass or small grouper are best, and are abundant at the mouth of the Ameca River. Its preparation is an art, as you have to give it “just the right touch” so it will arrive at the table moist and flavorful. Possibly the most abundant fish in the Bay is the small red snapper. A small fish preferred for its serving size for one person. Its typical preparation is grilled, which if masterfully prepared, is a delight, as it doesn’t dry out. Its white moist meat needs no further seasoning; its browned skin is edible, since it is a young fish, that ends up in the pot or on the grill pleasing seafood lovers. Mahi-Mahi is another fish local to Banderas Bay. It is best when it weighs between two and three kilos. It is filleted and prepared with the same technique as crustaceans: grilled, sauteed with

garlic, butter or sometimes stuffed with seafood. Mahi-mahi is by far the most popular fish, behind red snapper. Fish on a stick originated in Puerto Vallarta All towns have their history and legends; Puerto Vallarta, formerly “Las Peñas”, does as well, and it is said that “Don” Guadalupe Sánchez, the founder of the first settlement here, was the person that started this way of cooking his fish, in order to feed his family and friends: fish on a stick. Using a small fish, possibly red snapper or sea bass, skewered on a stick of mangrove wood, (a tree that grows in water, and is resistant to fire). Originally it was roasted vertically over a fire made from dried coconut shells, from the oil producing coconut species, which has disappeared, and now fish on a stick is roasted on the embers of any wood. This typical dish is still very popular at Los Muertos beach. During the rainy season, when the engorged rivers are flowing down the mountains, prawns arrive at the markets where those in the know are waiting for them. This crustacean could be the best delicacy at the table for the connoisseurs; the texture of its firm meat, the subtle nut flavor and its natural blending with sauteed garlic, makes it surpass its close relative, shrimp from the sea. Shrimp are not abundant in the waters of the Bay of Banderas, they are “imported” from waters more to the north, from Nayarit or Sinaloa. They are prepared chilled: in a cocktail, with tomato sauce or in their own juice, served in a large goblet. It is ideally served with either crisp tortilla chips or soda crackers, without skimping on ice-cold beer such as “Estrellita”. They are also served in a salad with sliced tomatoes, finely sliced onions, lime juice and Huichol sauce. The neighboring states to the north of the Ameca River have a generous production of shrimp;

there are several sizes which are each suitable for different dishes and preparations; Large (U-10 or U-12) for grilled or barbecued brochettes, interspersed with green pepper and onion, needing nothing more. Medium, (U-26 - 30) are the best for “Diabla” (Spicy), Buttered, Marinated styles or in some type of stew. Small ones (U 41 - 50) are best for cocktails. The most appreciated crustacean in this area is shrimp, not only for its abundance but for the variety of preparations that their meat permits. The most popular side-dish is white rice and boiled chayote and carrots sliced and buttered. Other seafood appearing on tables in the region include: oysters, large clams, “gorros” (mollusks), lobster, sea scallops, bay scallops and more; prepared in cocktails, chilled or just like shrimp. As they are not as abundant, they are more costly. Yelapa In Yelapa, an indigenous community located within the Bay, roasted lobster with “frijoles de la olla” and hot tortillas is famous and delicious. Yelapa is isolated, as one can only arrive by sea. Its ancestors and descendants have been living for

centuries as if it were an island. Although lobster is the symbol of Yelapa, it has the same sea food found in the rest of the Bay of Banderas. Boca de Tomates Boca de Tomates is a large beach located just south of the mouth of the Ameca river. At the beginning of the last century it used to be a loading area from which produce from the Ixtapa Hacienda was shipped. The owners of the banana exporting Montgomery company,

had built a small railroad from the town of Ixtapa in the Puerto Vallarta outskirts, in order to ship its products. Fish fried in slices is a specialty in Boca de Tomates. It is both different and flavorful. How they attain that crunchy exterior without sacrificing flavor nor moistness of the fish is a local culinary secret. Together with a freshly-made tortilla and a good salsa Mexicana you will have a unique and original delicacy. Something unique to this area is crab tacos; tortillas filled with crab stew, grilled “zarandeado” style with a cream and chipotle sauce on top. It is believed that this dish originated in the sixties at a long gone restaurant located on a beach to the north of Puerto Vallarta: “El ostión felíz”. One can still find this style of tacos on the menus of seafood restaurants in the Puerto Vallarta area. Smoked marlin tacos, another delicacy, are prepared with onions, tomatoes and peas. It is essential that to serve them with freshly made tortillas. Hot salsa is added to the tacos, and it is best if it is Huichol. They are not as popular as the crab ones, but they are delicious. Without a doubt, the most coveted dish all along the coast is “zarandeado”. It can be found wherever seafood is served and its quality depends on the type of fish which is used, the adobo seasoning which is on it ,and the ability of the persons preparing it. It is roasted over wood. By the way, this preparation has variations in almost all seaside destinations in the country; in Cancún it is prepared with “achiote” adobo, whereas in Acapulco the adobo is made with very flavorful “ancho” and “guajillo” chiles. It is a specialty in Barra Vieja at the edge of the “Boca de Laguna de tres Palos”.

The best is the one which “Godoy” has prepared for many years in his great “Palapa”, which even has hammocks to “sestear” (to take a siesta) or sleep after the meal. It is indispensable to have freshly-made, warm, good quality tortillas for this dish. La Cruz de Huanacaxtle the northeast part of Banderas Bay there is a small fishing town with abundant seafood: La Cruz de Huanacaxtle. There used to be a good restaurant by the name of Miramar which unfortunately disappeared. Almost everything that the sea produces was found there, including abalone, mussels and clams from Baja California. Punta de Mita also has an abundance of sea products, as there is a fishermen’s co-op and many places in which to eat seafood, the classic palapas on the beaches. All have the same characteristics and the same menu, the client chooses more for the affability of the owner than for a difference in the menu. The experience of eating fresh seafood by the sea is inviting and shortfalls in the installations are forgiven. Small red snapper and lobster abound in the Punta Mita area, but there are also oysters, scallops, clams, shrimp and fish. The dish is prepared with the catch of the day (or rather, the night). The specialty is the same: fish “zarandeado style”. Oysters from the Bahía de Banderas are big and “fat”. They are not as delicate and tasty as the small “pleasure” oysters found in other waters, mainly in the Gulf. However they are much appreciated and are eaten fresh, in a cocktail, with the typical seasonings and the ever present Huichol sauce. Original: magazine.visitpuertovallarta.com

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Jun 18 - 24, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

charities

Jun 18 - 24, 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. 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

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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. pasitosdeluz.org PEACEAnimals - Free mobile spay/neuter clinic operating 48 weeks a year, primarily in Puerto Vallarta. Tax-deductible. peaceanimals.org Pro Biblioteca de Vallarta - Raises funds for Los Mangos Public Library. Tax-deductible Ricardo Murrieta at 224-9966 Proyecto Pitillal, Busca un Amigo, A. C. - Association created by underprivileged mothers of paralyzed children. Contact: 299-0976. Puerto Vallarta Garden Club: Beautify and protecting the environment. vallartagardenclub.com PuRR Project - A no-kill cat shelter, a natural un-caged environment. www.purrproject.com Roma’s Kids - Educate the children of the Volcanes and surrounding area: Math, English and computer programs a priority. 100% goes to the kids. kids.romamexico.com The International Friendship Club (IFC) - Supports the Cleft Palate Surgery Program & families in need. 322-222-5466. Toys for Tots Vallarta - Distributes toys and constructs playgrounds for Puerto Vallarta area during the Christmas holiday period. Jerry Lafferty 322 221 6156 or lourdes.bizarro@marriotthotels.com. Vallarta Saludable (Healthy) – Healthy living through organics, stevias, cooking workshops, serums reversing dialysis and reality show. NAOTF.org Suzy Chaffee suzynativevoices@aol.com