Issue 951, June 25 - July 1st, 2015

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Wellness Latina salud superfood

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June 25 - Jul 1st, 2015 Free Issue 951

Cuisine Pitaya

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MĂŠxico 5 powerful women

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Archive

PITAYA

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.

Jun 25 - Jul 1st, 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 Gretchen DeWitt une 19, 2013 was the first surgery week for PEACEAnimals. In two years, we have sterilized more than 8,000 cats and dogs, preventing the future suffering of many thousands of animals. Towns and neighborhoods are cleaner, safer and quieter and wildlife is at less risk for decimation with the reduction of unwanted pets.

PEACEAnimals needs financial support to continue this important work.

EDUCATION PROGRAM: Leslie Caratachea presented to 224 young people at Secundaria Foránea Número 60 in colonia la Aurora. She says that parents of children who were part of presentations continue to bring in pets.

RIDES FOR RESCUE DOGS NEEDED for Edmonton, Calgary and Vancouver. All expenses for dogs paid for.

Please contact MEXPUP or NOBARS patty@mexpup. com; robin.nobars@gmail.com 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

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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

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 NOTE: A recent law was passed in Jalisco that requires all pets be sterilized after the age of eight weeks. To not comply with the law means a fine of 5,400 pesos.

This information is being given out by our education director at schools and at our clinics.

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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Jun 25 - Jul 1st, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Editor’s

Note

editor@vallartatribune.com

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his week is my anniversary and I’ve been looking for things to do around town. We had planned on heading to Mexico City for a few days but it overlaps with the AMPI Real Estate Conference in town this week at Paradise Village which makes traveling back and forth too rushed so, we will be tourists in our own town.

Guess what? Being a tourist in Vallarta isn’t very cheap. Of course it can be and ‘cheap’ is relative, but a romantic 2 nights, 3 days in an all-inclusive will set you back $700, or so. (ie. more than my rent each month). Ironically if I were coming from Vancouver and staying at an all-inclusive for this week it would cost $589 all in. (selloffvacations.com) I looked at the Rhythms of the Night dinner with Vallarta Adventures. Even with the ‘locals’ discount it’s a $100 per person.

Though they have a 3 for 2 deal on now that is great if you want to do multiple tours.

All this is compounded by the fact that I’m on a super strict diet consisting of salad, fruit and water… An all-inclusive sounds like a recipe for a disaster.

In my pursuit of the romantic all-inclusive I didn’t have much success, at least

within my budget, but I did find some really amazing boutique hotels here in the bay and I thought I’d share some of them with you.

The most recommended is a classic choice for romance - the Hacienda San Angel with its beautiful collection of art and antiques, beautiful rooms, gorgeous pool and one of Vallarta’s top restaurants. A newer mention was Luna Liquida, a boutique hotel with 14 rooms represented by the prestigious Hoteles Boutique de Mexico, located in the heart of Puerto Vallarta. There is also the always-lovely Villa Amor del Mar in La Cruz and Villa Amor in Sayulita if you are looking for romance and pampering.

I just want a book, a pool, piña coladas that don’t stop and nothing more. I’m an easy date. Maybe I’ll save my $700, buy a kiddie pool and chill out at home.

This Weekend - Riviera Fest in La Cruz

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fun-filled weekend is expected with some 300 classic and souped-up Volkswagen vehicles on exhibit before more than a thousand people during this family-oriented event.

The fourth annual edition of Riviera Fest is back at the Marina Riviera Nayarit in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle from June 27-28, 2015. This competition is held exclusively for Volkswagen vehicles in Mexico.

The Riviera Fest is considered one of the best beach events of its class. It has been endorsed by the Asociación Nacional de Vocheros de México and is organized by the Riviera Nayarit Club Wagen Volks.

300 Volkswagen vehicles will be arriving from cities all over Mexico including Tepic, Compostela, Mazatlán, Los Mochis, Aguascalientes, Salamanca, Guadalajara, Tepatitlán, Chihuahua, Monterrey, Zacatecas, Leon and Colima, among others.

“The event has been very well received around the country,” commented Aurelio Ruelas, one of the organizers. “It’s still pretty new but it’s really taken off; besides, many people use it as an excuse to visit the Riviera Nayarit.”

Approximately one thousand people are expected to attend between participants and their guests, but because it’s open to locals, assistance is expected to increase to about three thousand attendees.

Vehicles will begin arriving on Saturday, June 27th, though most will arrive on Sunday, June 28thstarting at 8 a.m. for registration and parking in the Marina, where they will be on display for the judging.

Cars will be classified by year and model into nearly 50 categories, also taking into account whether they are classic originals or modified. Those occupying the top three spots will receive a trophy and be qualified for other stops on this national circuit.

This event is 100% family oriented, with contests and plenty of food, drink, live music, bouncy houses for the kids and more. We’d like to thank the Banderas Bay City Council as well as the Government of the State of Nayarit for their support and the use of their facilities.

Riviera Nayarit Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB)

SPCA of Puerto Vallarta

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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.

Janice Gonzalez

We have scheduled tours each week and vehicle space is limited. We ask everyone to meet in the Costco parking lot beside the three large trees in open grassy area. You can either caravan in your own vehicle or ride with us out to the Sanctuary (reservations necessary).

The length of the tour is at the discretion of our visitors and can be anywhere from one to four hours in length. Please feel free to bring donations and treats for sanctuary staff as they truly appreciate it. Contact Nicole Martin at nicole@ cupocity.com to make a reservation.

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.com/spcapv or on our website at http://spcapv.com/donate/.

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.

PROTECTION AND CARE OF ANIMALS

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

news Puerto Vallarta, an exotic place, boasts of a combination of multiple life forms.

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Jun 25 - Jul 1st, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

By Jaime Alberto Torres Guerrero

Biologist, specializing in the management and conservation of natural resources. State environmental expert and currently Director of the El Salado Estuary from Puerto Vallarta.

We will talk about the diversity of ecosystems of Mexico, Jalisco, Puerto Vallarta and Banderas Bay in this article.

Biodiversity refers to the wide variety of living creatures on Earth, as a result of millions of years of evolution.

Biodiversity in Mexico and Jalisco Previously, we talked about the great variety of mountain formations, coastal plains, areas with cliffs, as well as countless rivers and streams that make up the country. We also mentioned both the wind and ocean water currents, predominant in the American continent, which strongly affect Mexico. Our country has a series of these ecosystems, classified as land, marine and hydrological priority regions.

They are named thus because of the urgency to protect and

Justice reform: new mindset, practices

Estero El Salado

The new, shorter trials will be public, transparent and expeditious conserve them, due to the considerable presence of ecosystems, plants and animals.

Mexico has 26,445 registered species of plants and 49,404 species of animals. The state of Jalisco alone has 7,027 plant species and 4,115 animal ones; that is to say it is the fourth state, in terms of diversity, in Mexico.

Biodiversity is a reason that gives sustenance to the exuberance of our region.

Biodiversity in Puerto Vallarta The “El Salado” estuary is a

protected site, as it is an area which is fundamental for the nesting, raising and shelter of birds, commercial fish such as sea bass and sea bream or crustaceans like shrimp, crabs and crayfish.

Occupying a 169 hectare area, it has 830 registered species up to now, which represents 7.5% of species in the state of Jalisco.

When you visit Puerto Vallarta and the region of the Bay of Banderas, do not miss the opportunity to become familiar with these islands and estuary ecosystems located within the area, an unforgettable experience.

Low-profile Zara did 21bn pesos last yearThe Spanish company is Mexico's biggest clothing retailer

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ou don’t hear much about the brand and even less of its owner, but Zara, with 304 stores, is Mexico’s biggest clothing retailer. And its Spanish owner overtook Carlos Slim and Warren Buffet recently to become the world’s second richest man after Bill Gates, according to a ranking by Bloomberg.

Amancio Ortega opened his first store at the age of 27 in La Coruña, Spain, in 1963. Twelve years later he opened the first Zara store and 10 years after that created Inditex, now a multinational clothing company engaged in textile design, production and distribution.

It is the world’s biggest fashion group and operates over 6,600 stores. In Mexico, as in other coun-

tries, the middle class wants to buy Hugo Boss, Ermenegildo Zegna and Burberry at accessible prices, and that’s what Zara delivers, generating revenues in this country alone of more than 21 billion pesos, or US $1.36 billion, last year.

In Mexico, Zara is bigger than its chief competitors, Carlos Slim’s Sears — with 83 stores and 20 billion pesos in sales — and Walmart’s Suburbia, which has 116 stores and revenues last year of 13 billion. And both those stores sell more than just clothing.

The company’s success could be attributed to its owner’s philosophy: “Give the customers what they want and do it faster than anyone else.”

Original: mexiconewsdaily.com

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t is the most profound legal transformation that Mexico has undergone in a century, according to Interior Secretary Miguel Angel Osorio Chong, and one that has involved a broad spectrum of people and organizations, as well as Mexico’s northern neighbor, the United States.

The reform of the justice system began back in 2008 with constitutional reforms and will finish next year, according to the plan, with a new court system operating throughout the land.

The huge overhaul of the penal and court system is getting a boost with US $247 million in funding delivered under the Mérida Initiative, a crime-fighting accord more often connected with buying helicopters than training in law. The U.S. regards the process now under way as a priority.

After reforms to the constitution and the modification of up to 500 local penal codes, the country is on the last, one-year stretch, at the end of which the new accusatory penal system, employing oral trials rather than the submission of written evidence reviewed behind closed doors, will be the law of the land.

Osorio Chong said that bringing about the new system has required an alliance between government and institutes of higher education and bar associations, along with coordination and other efforts by the states.

“Our country is on the brink of achieving efficient and transparent justice that is available to all,” he said. The secretary observed that for the new system to succeed the country needs more than new laws.

“Fundamentally, we must change Mexico’s mindset, as well as current practices of those who are applying the law.”

An oral trial system implies a shorter procedure: trials that took on average 180 days to reach a

verdict will now be over in just 34.

The use of preventive detention will be drastically reduced, too, because under the new system no one can be jailed without justification. The system will operate on the premise that the accused is innocent until proven otherwise.

“We are about to leave behind bureaucratic procedures that were untrustworthy, slow and plagued with uncertainty. Oral trials, in contrast, are public, transparent and expeditious,” said Osorio Chong.

He also advised that swift and reliable justice reaches beyond political colors and banners, and called on state governments to work together in implementing the new system across the country before the June 2016 deadline. “The law should be applied without delay or excuses.”

The United States’ financial contribution will support the training of police officers and investigators, buying forensic equipment, building infrastructure and providing technology to be applied during trials, while also covering the training of law students, judges, public defenders and every other player involved in the new system.

The U.S. ambassador to Mexico, Anthony Wayne, said his government is working closely with Mexican officials to properly equip and prepare them.

Transitioning to a new penal system is no simple feat, but “once in proper operation, the new justice model in Mexico will offer great advantages [such as] more accountability, transparency and efficiency.

In consequence, these changes will give Mexicans more confidence in their justice system,” said Wayne.

As of last month, just six states had fully implemented the new system.

Sources: El Financiero (sp), Televisa (sp) Original: mexiconewsdaily.com

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Jun 25 - Jul 1st, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Mexico to wait before raising rates

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he minutes from their June 4th monetary policy meeting show that the decision by Mexico central bank’s board to leave the overnight rate unchanged at 3.0% was unanimous.

All board members agreed that the bank would have to adjust its monetary policy stance, regardless of the timing of the first interest rate increase by the US Federal Reserve, if inflation expectations became unanchored and if the consolidation of the convergence process of inflation to 3.0% was at risk. The majority of the board members stated that if inflation expectations remain incheck, the costs of moving before the US Fed outweigh the benefits, as the weakness of the Mexican economy could deepen. The majority of the board members expressed this same view in the previous meeting on 30 April.

On the other hand, some board members favored the view of moving before the Fed. One of

them said that conditioning the interest rate hike at home to a disorderly movement in financial markets was not advisable, as monetary policy would be controlling the damage as opposed to managing risks. Another board member said that moving before the Fed would be advisable in a scenario in which adverse market developments put inflation and/or financial stability at risk.

The minutes also showed that most members highlighted the moderate growth rate of the economy and considered that its balance of risks remained unchanged relative to the previous meeting. Furthermore, the majority of the board members noted the slack that prevails in the labor market and in the economy as a whole. As to the evolution of inflation, most members pointed out that it remains below the bank’s target and that expectations have remained stable.

Lath.com

Constellation Brands to Invest $2.2 Billion in Mexico Constellation Brands, which owns the Modelo beer business in the United States, said it planned to invest $2.27 billion in the northern Mexican state of Coahuila to expand one of its breweries and a glass plant.

Constellation Brands president and CEO Robert Sands announced the investment during a ceremony on Tuesday at the official Los Pinos presidential residence in Mexico City hosted by Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto and high-level officials.

The expansion of the brewery and the glass plant will create 3,500 jobs during the construction phase, Peña Nieto said.

The project is expected to create 2,500 direct jobs and 700 indirect jobs once it is completed, the president said.

The plant expansion will “bolster the Mexican beer industry” and “this confirms the positive view that global companies have of our country,” Peña Nieto said.

Of the $2.27 billion being invested

by Constellation Brands, $1.65 billion is destined for the expansion of the

news Seven arguments (with statistics) to shut Donald Trump up about Mexico

brewery in Nava, a city in Coahuila, while $625 million is being pumped into the glass plant.

“Constellation Brands is proud to be in Mexico, and we are here to stay.

Our commitment and investments in our Mexican beer portfolio have resulted in record-breaking growth and accelerating U.S. consumer demand that is far ahead of market trends,” Sands said.

The brewery’s capacity will be expanded from 10 million hectoliters per year today to 25 million hectoliters annually by 2017.

Constellation is expanding the glass plant from one to four furnaces, increasing production of bottles for the Corona beer brand.

Lath.com

Numbers relating to investment, culture and people prove US mogul’s insults wrong

By JAN MARTÍNEZ AHRENS

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onald Trump does not represent the United States and drug trafficking does not represent Mexico. Beyond the stereotypes, there is a deep and mutually beneficial relationship between the two countries. The American mogul’s invectives calling for the construction of a wall to hold back the US’s supposedly lazy and dangerous neighbors fall within the sphere of xenophobic demagoguery and crumble under the least bit of analysis. Here are seven arguments – with statistics – to shut Trump up.

The money proof. There is no better measure of confidence than money. And between 1999 and 2012, the United States invested $153 billion in Mexico. This huge influx represented 50 percent of total direct investment into the country. No one else invested more. Therefore, no one else showed more faith. Except Trump, of course.

Six million US jobs depend on trade with Mexico and business between the two countries generates $1 million a minute What Bill Gates, Ford and Walmart think of Mexico.Money is not the only important thing. Who puts up the funds is also relevant.

The United States, the paradise of the big trading centers, has sent its top businesses to Mexico. Microsoft has invested $2.25 billion, Ford has put in $2.1 billion, GM is there with $1.34 billion, as is Walmart with $1.28 billion. They have all invested

their money and prestige – and created one or two scandals – on Mexican soil. Trump’s empire is a home shopping network compared to these giants. Who would you trust?

More than friends, they are partners. Nothing unites two parties as well as a good commercial relationship. Both countries belong to the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and Mexico is the United States’ second-most-important trading partner, it is the largest market for exports from California, Arizona and Texas and the second-largest for 20 other states. About six million US jobs depend on trade with Mexico and business between the two countries generates around $1 million a minute. Does anyone believe that Mexico only imports rapists and drug traffickers, as Trump claims?

Mexican United States. Mexico is passionate about its northern neighbor. It not only sends the United States 80 percent of its exports, it also shares its best people. Of the almost 12 million Mexicans who live abroad, 97.8 percent of them reside in the United States, more than 250 times the number of Mexicans living in Spain, the motherland. Even more important than the immigrants are their sons and daughters. In 2012, 34 million Mexicans and their relatives lived in Trump’s country, making up 11 percent of the American population. Aren’t they enough to put an end to any kind of prejudice?

More cultured and more educated. The United States’

Mexican population does not fit the rough profile Trump paints of it. Resident Mexicans are an active and determined group who keep on improving. In 1990, only 25 percent of them had attended high school but that number reached 41 percent two decades later. And today, despite facing the obstacles that come with any large migration, two thirds of them speak perfect English and almost half are homeowners.

The common language. Trump launched his insults in English.

A language that came to North America after Spanish. Today, more than 53 million people in the United States speak Spanish.

It is the second-most-important language in the land and the US’s Spanish-speaking community is the second largest in the world, behind Mexico’s. It is not something that belongs to “the others.” The language and culture are essential parts of the United States.

United forever. Borders, despite Trump’s insistence, are unifying. The US-Mexico frontier, the longest in the world, spans 3,142 kilometers. It would be hard for any wall to slow down the flow of human traffic across this immense shared territory whose dividing line is crossed by a million people and 300,000 vehicles every day.

Any takers?

Sources: American embassy in Mexico, Mexican Foreign Affairs Secretariat, International Monetary Fund, and the Pew Research Center.

ElPais

local

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Paradise

and Parenting Leza Warkentin mommyinmexico.wordpress.com

Birthday Rescue

About a year ago I was sitting on my daughter’s bed while she said her evening prayers. She said this: “Dear God, please protect us from the bad guys because we don’t know how to protect ourselves.

And we don’t like violence. Amen.”

Cuteness aside, I always knew that my little girl would be an activist for peace. She loved every living thing from the day she could curl her hands into our dog Gizmo’s fur and tap on the clownfish aquarium at the local pet shop. She embraced a non-meat diet and helped us volunteer with local animal rescue organizations. Her first day at the SPCA sanctuary was a day spent in her true happy place, surrounded by nipping, squirming puppies. She was covered with an isolation ward gown that was about seventeen sizes too big, almost as big as her smile.

I wasn’t too surprised, then, that she insisted on celebrating her ninth birthday as a volunteer at the SPCA. She invited a few girlfriends to come along and get to know the wonderful work going on at the sanctuary (I recommend a trip out there to anyone who loves to see a beautiful, bright, well-run animal shelter with friendly, helpful staff).

The night before her birthday celebration, our family decided

to walk our own two dogs in the neighborhood. We were on our way back when we passed a dumpster full of garbage. What we saw under the dumpster turned our evening around completely: two very young, big-eyed, puppies, wagging their tails tentatively.

I will admit to you now that my first thought was this: “Oh man. We are going to have to do something about this. And I would really rather not.”

This is not easy to admit. I’ve always tried to teach the children to focus on what they can do for the world, instead of waiting to see what it will do for them. And yet, here I was, reluctant to save two lives just because it would definitely inconvenience mine.

My daughter didn’t seem to

think so much as to act. My not-yetnine-year-old walked up to the puppies, which waggled over to her as though sensing A Human In Action. She put out her arms and she picked them up.

In case you are wondering, she knows about germs and bacteria.

She is aware that dogs in dumpsters may not be ever-so-clean. She knows she is fairly allergic to most short-haired dogs and would have a congested night. She picked them up anyway. And she turned to us and said “We need to take these dogs, because they will die here if we don’t.”

Her father and I floundered a bit. We told her that those puppies had a mother who would miss them. And then, like serendipity, a mother dog showed up. I asked my daughter to take the pups to her. I had a feeling of great hope that this was somebody’s dog and somebody’s puppies. The mother dog growled at her puppies and ran away.

So there we stood, my little girl facing us with two filthy, desperately thin puppies in her arms. Tears were starting to fill her eyes but her face was pure determination.

I suddenly realized that her father and I were standing hesitantly on the shoreline while our daughter was striding into the waves without a second thought.

So we got brave and we waded in after her. What comes next may be up to you.

We are desperately looking for short term foster care and/or permanent adoption for our two little dumpster pups (their names are now Brownie and Buttercup, because our daughter had more right than anyone to name them).

If you can help out with either or want more information, please write to rhythm2rain@gmail.com.

Like and share our page on Facebook called Rhythm’s birthday Rescue. Jump on in.

Jun 25 - Jul 1st, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Wellness

Latina

By Marcella Castellanos info@wellnesslatina.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.

Salud Superfood

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s your meal delicious?" This is the mantra at Salud Superfood located in Olas Altas. When you step foot into this favorite eatery that attracts varied cultural and demographic customers, you'll immediately be greeted from the counter with a warm and jovial, "Hola, cómo estás?" - usually by Willy or Rita Nuño who take a lot of pride in connecting with you to make you feel comfortable and acknowledged as Willy likes to put it.

Salud Superfood were one of the first restaurants in Vallarta to embrace a healthy eating concept as their offering to the public. I remember being so excited about it when some of my friends first told me about it 3.5 years ago when they first opened and it continues to be one of my favorite eating spots.

This handsome couple grew up five doors from each other in East Los Angeles and then relocated to Seattle where they made their home for nearly seventeen years prior to arriving in Puerto Vallarta.

They left Seattle and arrived in PV in September of 2011 and opened Salud shortly after. Salud is the Spanish word for Cheers! and also the word for health, so it's perfectly fitting that they would combine healthy eating with an amiable atmosphere. Curious about how and why they got started, I asked Willy some questions over a glass of their restaurant's signature limonada con chia while uplifting music played in the background.

1) What inspired you to open this establishment?

There are many things that happened that created that drive behind it, but I almost feel like Vallarta said we need this, because we hadn't been planning on this. We had been working on a concept for a Mexican restaurant coming out of Seattle, Washington.

So when Vallarta became a viable

alternative as a place to live, after researching and coming out of a yoga class looking for a smoothie we were surprised we couldn't find any. And when we thought about the craziness that there weren't any smoothies in an area where there are many yogis, and gayswhich are demographics that have wellness in mind - we just couldn't believe that there weren't any healthy alternatives. That was the original concept, but we didn't think that would be enough, so we developed Salud, but it all came out of the desire to just have a smoothie.

2) Do you think people are more conscious about eating healthier and making better food choices?

No doubt. The consciousness of what we're putting in our bellies is growing everyday and it's not a trend - it's the wave of the future.

I think that there is many reasons for this. Some people just want to be healthier and some people want to approach it from a financial standpoint. Medical costs are skyrocketing everywhere. The U.S. is absurd, but here, prices are going up as well. And so being able to keep yourself healthy and not have to go to the doctor or have a holistic approach to eat food that makes you healthier and keeps you that way is going to be something that is going to continue to burgeon and grow.

3) What does eating healthy mean to you?

Well one, it's a lifestyle - it has to be a lifestyle. It can't be a hobby that you do a couple of times a week. It's a lifestyle that you choose to make the right choices most of the time. And if you're a super disciplined person, there are a few of us in the world that are unwilling to waver from those healthy choices.

I think that eating healthy means making healthy choices most of the time and ingest ingredients

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that make you feel good. It's important to us that you enjoy the food as you're sitting there eating it and when you go away you enjoy it. It simply boils down to it being a way of life.

4) What is one suggestion you would give someone that wants to adopt healthier eating habits?

Make sure that the choices you make are both healthy and delicious. I believe if you still enjoy your food, the chances of you staying on this path are much greater. I think it's a great concept to completely eat raw, but I don't believe it's realistic for most of us. So I think keeping a good balance and making sure there is a delicious aspect to your meal as well as a healthy balance to the meal that was put together.

If it's not delicious you're not going to stick to it. Find deliciously healthy superfood.

5) What's your favorite healthy meal and what's your indulgence?

My favorite healthy meal is our Thai bowl. I love Asian food and we used to eat a lot of teriyaki chicken, but I couldn't understand why the Japanese didn't incorporate more veggies into their dish. That inspired us to create the Thai bowl with the veggies over quinoa in a very satisfying way.

My favorite indulgence is pizza. Willy seems to have that healthy living balance sliced the right way... "Salud!"

Salud Superfood is open Monday - Saturday from 9 - 5 p.m. in Olas Altas #534. For a list of their savory and healthy menu items, visit www.saludpv.com. Phone # is 322.139.9398

The Sun King Rules The Bay Puerto Vallarta’s light makes it a privileged location

By Francisco de Santiago

P

sychotherapist with a Masters in Gestalt Therapy.

He offers various cultural development diploma courses and human development workshops. He is currently Certifier of Spa Body Therapies in the region.

Puerto Vallarta is a tourist destination par excellence, as the light of the sun baths it all year round. We could say that this vital source of energy and strength is present close to three hundred and sixty five days a year.

The sun has an important effect on our body through the skin. The body needs sunrays to synthesize vitamin D (fundamental for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus needed by our bones), 5 or 10 minutes of exposure daily is enough for this, as 90% of vitamin D comes through the skin and only 10% comes from food. Among other beneficial and necessary effects, Vitamin D, has an anti depressive and thermo-regulating effect.

Our skin is the largest organ of the body with numerous functions including protective, metabolic and immunological ones, all indispensable for proper body balance.

Some years ago it was common to see locals and foreigners spending prolonged amounts of time in the sunlight, however, times have changed and due to atmospheric alterations, the ozone layer no longer protects us as it did before. The excessive exposure to sunlight without protection

produces an acceleration of the aging process, reduces elasticity and firmness of the skin and diminishes its capacity to retain liquids.

We need to learn how to enjoy the rays of the sun without damaging our health In the last few decades there has been an alarming increase in skin cancer, caused by careless and cumulative sun exposure, which has brought the need to protect us from this disease to the forefront. Sun rays are: luminous, caloric and ultraviolet.

The UV rays synthesize melanin, a pigment that causes our skin to tan.

Excessive melanin production produces skin alterations and accelerates the aging process.

We can see this when we compare the parts of our skin that are exposed to the sun to those that are not, and notice spots, changes in texture and in elasticity.

We need to learn how to enjoy the rays of the sun without damaging our health, allowing sunlight to be a source of vitality, supplying us with energy, happiness, health and a good mood.

Puerto Vallarta allows us to benefit from its light and temperature, unlike other places in the world that do not have as much sun due to location or climate.

Our sun shines brightly from dawn to dusk.

Let’s learn to enjoy the benefits of the Sun King in our paradise, a privilege we can share with the world.

Jun 25 - Jul 1st, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Minister in Jalisco after 9,000-km ride

Year-long trip on horseback raises money for orphanages in 5 countries

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horseback-riding Baptist Church minister from Canada has arrived in Guadalajara after completing a 9,000-kilometer, year-long fundraising ride from Prudhoe Bay, Alaska.

Len Crow’s “Pony Express for Orphans” raised over US $120,000, which will support orphanages in five countries — Mexico, India, the Philippines, Guatemala and Cambodia.

It was the sixth such trip since 1996 for the 60-year-old resident of Orillia, Ontario, where he is the founding pastor of the North Country Baptist Church. Accompanied by his wife Nancy driving a truck and trailer, Crow did up to 40 kilometers a day on horseback, riding on secondary roads, trails or highway medians.

Money is raised through donations from supporters who pay between one and 25 cents per kilometer traveled.

The journey took the couple through snowstorms and rain to searing desert heat. In Alaska, three black bears wandered into his camp and Crow had to chase them off by banging pots and pans and firing a shotgun.

There was a bit of a setback when they crossed the border into Mexico at Douglas, Arizona, where they had to leave the two horses due to issues with the Customs bureaucracy. But two more were found in Agua Prieta, Sonora, one of which was donated to the cause.

In Mexico, the Pony Express supports the Annabel Vallejo orphanage in Guadalajara, home to 50 children, orphaned or abandoned.

The Crows’ arrival in Guadalajara was greeted with a police escort and joined by members of a local cattle raisers’ association who accompanied them on the final stretch.

Source: Simcoe.com (en), El Diario (sp), Missoulian (en) Original: MexicoDailyNews

Vallarta Shopping Directory and events

www.puertovallartadining-shopping.com

CASSANDRA SHAW JEWELRY

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assandra Shaw started in the jewelry business in the year 2000 and her prestigious Cassandra Shaw Jewelry store/gallery was established on Basilio Badillo Street in the Olas Altas area of Vallarta in 2007.

Here you will find amazing displays of jewelry all made in Mexico, for both women and men. Most of the designs are her own but she does include designs of 12 other popular designers who live and work in Mexico.

At Cassandra’s you will find the most amazing collection of necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings in sterling silver enhanced with unique stones.

Cassandra uses very interesting natural stones, fossils and bone to showcase the beautiful silver that Mexico is so well known for.

Dramatic, avant garde styles will set you apart from the crowd. You will definitely find something that you cannot live without or for the perfect gift.

Cassandra Shaw has a reputation for excellent service and she will even do custom work.

Cassandra moved to Puerto Vallarta in 1999 to start a career in jewelry design and acrylic art. Her gallery and jewelry store, located the Romantic Zone of Vallarta is known for its uniqueness and one of a kind designs.

Both her jewelry and paintings are bold and dramatic.

The paintings are heavily layered, with subjects such as brightly colored roosters on display in the store The jewelry is a form of art in its own right, with each stunning piece beautifully crafted in Mexico. Cassandra´s beloved dogs can be seen in her publicity, mode-

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

ling her jewelry creations. Cassandra is a loyal supporter of local charities and events and is an important part of the Puerto Vallarta scene.

Click on http://Vallartashoppingdirectory.blogspot.com, select the Jewelry page and scroll down to see some of Cassandra Shaw`s designs.

Casa Corona:

Offered at $369,000 USD

Casa Corona: a gem in Gringo Gulch, 2 + bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, fantastic views to town, walking distance to the Malecon, great open space, perfect for a B&B. Contact: alfonso@tropicasa.com

talavera

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Jun 25 - Jul 1st, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

A Tale of Talavera

By Thomas Swanson/Marianne Menditto

www.ColibriDesignVallarta.com

T

he name Talavera was brought to Mexico from Spain in the early colonial days, as one of the earliest forms of out-sourcing. It signified a traditional style of pottery that was being produced in Talavera de la Reina, Toledo, Spain. Since its transplant to Mexico it has grown be mean much more.

The first Talavera style pottery and tile of Mexico, was manufactured in and around the city of Puebla de los Angeles, in the State of Puebla. The industry flourished in the 16th and 17th centuries after the Spanish authorities chose Puebla to be the exclusive manufacturing region for ceramic pottery in Mexico. This new product was given the name “Talavera Poblana” to distinguish it from the Spanish Talavera. The only other fine ceramics allowed to be sold in Mexico at the time were imports from China or Western Europe.

Today, there are only a handful of officially designated Talavera Poblana pottery houses in Mexico, all of them in the Valle de Puebla.

In 1998 the Mexican Department of Economics assigned a NOM certification to Talavera Poblana, similar to what we see on a bottle of Tequila, by which their product’s legacy was to be distinguished.

NOM stands for “Norma Oficial Mexicana” and is a set of standards, a kind of collective copyright.

In the case of Talavera Poblana, it requires that the working methods,

the clays and the glazes adhere to the age old traditional methods developed almost 500 years ago.

This was part of a program called “Denomination of Origin”, designed to protect Mexican artisanal and culinary patrimony from the effects of globalization. The certification of authenticity is given in the form of a hologram sticker. Their works are certainly divine and the ceramics makers who are part of this elite group must undergo strict periodic inspections.

However, this is where reality transcends politics and tradition.

There is another place where the manufacture of Talavera pottery is profuse. The rivers cutting into the plains around Dolores Hidalgo, Guanajuato bank some of the finest and cleanest clays in Mexico, the quality of which can only be surpassed in Saltillo, Coahuila.

Although as yet not recognized as such by the Mexican government, Dolores Hidalgo is a true home of handmade ceramic tile manufacturing, with dozens of ceramics houses making tiles and pottery that is called Talavera. Many of the manufacturers in Dolores Hidalgo have used the word Talavera either in their names or on their wares for centuries prior to the new “Denomination of Origin” protections being put into place.

Tile and ceramics from Dolores have long been sold around the world and in Mexico as Talavera.

Indeed, it is the most commonly recognized form of the craft.

Fortunately for them, by their very lack of government certification, the artisans of Dolores have

been freed from the requirement of using out-dated technology. This allows many of them to sell far below the price-points of their Talavera Poblana competitors by using modern methods of cleaning and

Adorable Dog In The Spotlight... ROXIE

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sn’t she just gorgeous with her brindle coat? Roxie is a sweet, playful two year old Lab mix who just wants to snuggle. She is on the smaller side at just 35 pounds of pure love. Roxie is good with other dogs but not so much cats so we would recommend a home without any felines. She is quite a social gal and loves going for walks and saying hi to everyone in the neighborhood. Roxie has been spayed, dewormed and is up to date on all her vaccines. If you think Roxie would be a perfect addition to your family, contact us at spcapv@gmail.com.

preparing the clay, modern firing and a wide range of glaze colors.

They take pride in staying true to the old-world feel, by using hand molding & painting techniques.

There are even a few freelance

mural painters who sell their work through little shops in the town.

Volume sales also help in keeping costs down, as many tile houses can produce a large quantity in short order.

The American Southwest is a major market for this type of Talavera, as is much of Mexico.

Quality varies from modest to the very finest, but style and creativity abound. Some very dedicated and passionate tile makers are pioneering glazes, finishes, reliefs and sculptural surfaces. The concept of tile as wall-covering is one cutting-edge format currently being explored. International designers are also seeking out the top tile houses to bring their own visions to life.

Highlighting an interesting twist in the back-story, Padre Miguel Hidalgo, the ‘Father of the Mexican War of Independence’ himself, had a clandestine pottery business in Dolores Hidalgo before the start of the war, when the Spanish authorities did not allow the local making of pottery. Its closing by the colonial government and other economic oppressions were some of the reasons he and his parishioners started the rebellion.

The artisans of Dolores Hidalgo and the rest of Guanajuato, continue to produce some of the finest tiles and ceramics on earth.

Their attention to detail, quality & trendsetting design make them unique in their field. So, who is to say what is Talavera? It’s all beautiful.

Nothing is ever as it seems in Mexico, and no one should expect it to be. That’s one of the reasons to love it.

Originally published June 2014, Vallarta Tribune

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

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Underneath the Pitaya Thorny Exterior, a Nutritious Interior

Bittersweet to the palate, there’s nothing equivocal about the health benefits of this exotic fruit. And spring is the season when it comes into its own.

By Ignacio Pérez Vega

T

he pitaya grows in Vietnam, Colombia and the Caribbean. The Japanese eat it too. But it is in Mexico where this colorful exotic fruit takes on the subtle flavors of the land and has a loyal following. Rich in fiber, antioxidants and vitamin C, pitaya can be eaten fresh or can sometimes be found in punch, pastries and infusions. It is also used to make jellies and juices.

Unlike its cactus-fruit cousin, the prickly pear, which has 50% fiber content, pitaya are 90% pulp. It has small seeds and a thin skin and takes from 55 to 60 days to mature.

Once picked, it lasts five days at most, or up to 12 if refrigerated.

In April, May and June, trucks laden down with pitaya fill the district of Nueve Esquinas in Guadalajara, turning its colonial streets into an explosion of color.

On the sidewalks, large baskets called chiquihuites brim with between 200 and 300 pitaya of all shapes and sizes. Originally from Techaluta, Amacueca, Zacoalco and Sayula in Southern Jalisco, and arid parts of Oaxaca and Puebla in Central Mexico, the word pitaya is of Caribbean origin and

means “thorny fruit”.

The Spaniards documented it and brought it to Mexico during the Conquest, although there is evidence to suggest it has always grown here. Legend has it the Aztec emperors ate fresh pitaya, ferried to Teotihuacán from Puebla and Western Mexico by messengers who made the 500-kilometer journey on foot. There are many types of cactus plants that produce pitayas, some 19 edible species in all, according to the Internet site dragonfruitpitaya.org.

“I never dreamed that the world of fruits could produce something as wonderful as the dragon fruit.

Its pulp has the color and appearance of rolled up rose petals and its juicy flesh tastes of a passionate lover’s kiss. Never before had I held in my hands a piece of red earth,” said French poet André Breton on tasting a Mexican pitaya for the first time.

Unfortunately, this tasty exotic fruit isn’t keen on traveling. To taste it, you’ll have to visit Mexico, where it can be found often on the side of the road in woven baskets, or at local fruit markets. However, cactus experts like Eulogio Pimienta

“

cuisine

Jun 25 - Jul 1st, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

“I never dreamed that the world of fruits could produce something as wonderful as the dragon fruit.

Its pulp has the color and appearance of rolled up rose petals and its juicy flesh tastes of a passionate lover’s kiss. Never before had I held in my hands a piece of red earth” French poet André Breton on tasting a Mexican pitaya for the first time

Barrios and Pedro Puente Ovalle, who work as researchers at the University of Guadalajara (UdeG), believe the pitaya can broaden its horizons, provided it is kept refrigerated. Super fruits such as Pitaya and xoconostle can help people with Diabetes control their blood

sugar levels. Since 1998, Miguel Ángel Armella, an academic at the Department of Biology at the Iztapalapa campus of the Autonomous Metropolitan University (UAM), has been researching dragon fruit, sweet xoconostle and jiotilla.

“All three are cactus fruit varieties

The Pitaya in Eight Bites: 1. Average weight: 100 - 120 grams.

2. Fruit maturity period: 55 - 60 days.

3. Picking season: April, May and June.

4. Pitahaya is a Caribbean word meaning “thorny fruit”.

5. Grown commercially on a small scale.

6. Easily identifiable by its distinctive red, purple or white skin.

7. Produced in the Central Mexican states of Hidalgo, Morelos, Guerrero, Puebla, Oaxaca and Jalisco.

8. Major producer states: Oaxaca, Puebla and Jalisco.

and share similar properties. In the case of dragon fruit, we have found that it absorbs glucose derivatives.

It doesn’t reduce glucose levels per se but it does prevent it entering the blood stream. That is because it adheres to the films of glucose in the digestive tract, making it harder for the human body to absorb them. So even though dragon fruit doesn’t contain any molecule or element that directly reacts with glucose, it does have a positive effect,” says Armella. The red color of dragon fruit and jiotilla is due to the presence of betalains, a powerful class of antioxidants that are beneficial to the human organism.

All three fruits have as much vitamin C as citrus fruit, which also makes them useful allies in warding off respiratory diseases.

riviera nayarit

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Jun 25 - Jul 1st, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

La Cruz Community Pulls Together to Make Summer Camp a Reality Life

In La Cruz

By Cindy Bouchard Cindy Bouchard, an expat Canadian runs a Boutique Inn, Villa Amor del Mar in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle. She and her husband Chris are living and lovin’ in Vallarta–Nayarit. If you want more info on La Cruz or desire… A very special vacation contact cindy@VillaAmordelMar.com

Livin’ and Lovin’ La Cruz!

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Those in the picture are, from left to right: Edger Duran Duran, high school music teacher and now Camp Director Steve Cross, President Amigo de la Cruz, J. Leopeld Diaz Abundio (“Polo”) Chief Coordinator of Higher Educational Technical Programs and Delegado of La Cruz, Potential campers from La Cruz: Mariana Daniela Osona Milton – age 11, Duan Edel Leyva Santiago – age 8

By Kevin Donnelly

(kevinfundonnelly@gmail.com)

E

dgar Duran Duran a music teacher at Colegio Salzmann school in La Cruz had a dream of starting a day camp for La Cruz children this summer. The camp would emphasis five areas; dance, music, sports, art and recycling. With no funds available to him Edger approached Steve Cross, President of Amigos de la Cruz, for help and guidance. Steve believed that the camp was something really needed this summer for the children of La Cruz and a project and a challenge Amigos de la Cruz could certainly assist with. He then asked Edger to attend a special Amigos de la Cruz meeting to present his ideas. That is all it took as the group rallied to the need and thus begin a full scale fast tracking towards turning Edger's dream into a reality.

Joan Gil, an Amigo de la Cruz board member, volunteered to spearhead the fund raising program while other members assisted Edger with the budge-

ting and operational functions of the camp. Also attending that same meeting was J. Leoeld Diaz Abrundio (he goes by Polo), who is both the Delegrado of La Cruz (an elected office responsible to watch over the welfare of the town) and the Chief Coordinator of Higher Education Technical Program for the La Cruz school district.

In the three short weeks since Edger met with Amigos de la Cruz Polo has secured, for free, all the facilities the camp will need for their programs and has signed-up all the high school students required to conduct the camp's swimming instructional and water safety programs.

In that same time period, lead

by Joan Gil's let's get it done great attitude, one hundred percent of the needed funds for the camp has been raised and all the campers tee shirts and arts and craft supplies have been donated by local business.

Edger, now officially the Camp Director of Proyecto Verano 2015 (Summer Project 2015) has hired all his camp counselors, mainly

teachers from the La Cruz area, and plans to start counselor training a week before the beginning of the camp.

Edger will also assist with Polo's volunteer high school students in conducting a swimming instructor's program to insure that these high school students are trained and prepared to safely teach the 100 plus campers attending the camp's aquatic programs. Depending on swimming skill level, each student will be placed in a beginners, intermediate or advanced swimming instructional programs.

The six days a week (Monday through Saturday) summer camp for children living in La Cruz is scheduled for three weeks beginning on July 20th. The camp will start each day at 9 am and end at 1:30 pm. The cost per child for the entire three week period is 50 pesos.

For further information regarding the camp or to register a child living in La Cruz contact Edger at either his e-mail address: duranedger77102@gmail.com or his cell: 322 131 6089.

f only I could make a living so I can live in paradise! I’ve heard that sentiment stated in so many ways since we moved here and created a business. There truly are so many ways to achieve both; Work + Life in La Cruz = Paradise or as many say… Livin’ the dream.

Peter (Pedro) Vargas moved to La Cruz six years ago when clients of his were asking him to come down because there were no riggers in the bay. Now, for excellent work on your boat; rigging, welding, bottom paint, fiberglass and so much more… Sea Tek opened their first Mexican office at the Marina Riviera Nayarit shipyard in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle.

Peter worked for Seatek USA for 30 years before given the opportunity to buy the company. What he enjoys most about his ‘job’ is that everyday presents new problems to be solved, never the same routine.

He says, “I’ve always worked on boats!”

When asked his specialty he answered… “ Rigging, standing and running, although we do just about everything else on boats, too! Pedro tells me that business has been good and now that they are a well-established company there are many rewards especially meeting great people, I have many friends that were (are) clients.

When we haul a boat out of the water it is generally beat up and it’s a good feeling when we see it going back into the water all pretty and beautiful not to mention it’s functioning properly!

Of course, there are stressful moments like when parts don’t arrive and then we miss deadlines or when things are not happening according to my plan but that’s all part of it. He says most of his clients

are from Canada and USA but he’s also had some from Mexico, New Zealand, Australia and abroad.

When asked what inspires him he first said money, haha, love the honesty! Peter says “At the end of the day we do this for money, to have a better lifestyle. As rewarding as it is to help people, to create friendships and as much as I enjoy my work I do it for the money. I cook carne asada on weekends, for special occasions, birthday parties, etc. I won’t give you the recipe though, if I did I’d have to kill you, just kidding!”

He likes the biggest change to La Cruz, the world class Marina, which as he says “I like it a lot, it keeps bread on the table!”

His favourite quote:

If you don’t have time to do it right the first time when would you have time to do it over?

He’s proudest that “I started as a janitor with Sea Tek and now I own the company. I’m proud to have a wonderful family with three great kids that I wouldn’t trade for the world.”

I wish for Pedro, his staff, his family and all the great people of La Cruz that his wish for the future of La Cruz comes true. “To keep money flowing so that everybody in town has a little more than they have now.”

méxico

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Jun 25 - Jul 1st, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

5 Powerful and Unusual Women of Mexico

T

he Forbes list of the most powerful women in Mexico encompasses a number of professions in which women are driving change. But there are five who have excelled in unusual areas.

Here we present them.

The second list of powerful women by Forbes Mexico highlights the most influential women in Mexico in various fields such as business, research, sport and culture.

Their influence on the country’s

progress is clear. According to the annual report Global Leadership Forecast 2014-2015 by consulting agency Development Dimensions, businesses with higher financial output and 20% more likely to have women in senior management and

leadership roles. Although there are still some barriers to full professional fulfillment, the role of women within organizations and businesses is increasingly important.

Well understood by Forbes Mexico, they will present the

first Forum on Powerful Women, “Redefining Power”, bringing together in 300 of the most influential decision-makers in the country and Latin America. Of the most powerful women, five stand out as leaders in areas of unusual work.

Norma Romero Vazquez, coordinator of Las Patronas “We know God through migrants,” said Norma, who daily drives a 1997 Chevrolet truck to buy vegetables, bread and pick up the goods that businesses donate; feeding at least 150 migrants a day. She heads the humanitarian group, Las Patronas, consisting of 14 women from Amatlán de los Reyes, Veracruz, who for the past 20 years prepare dozens of packages with a bag of rice, beans or tortillas, a can of tuna, fruit and candy.

This they feed migrants crossing aboard the infamous La Bestia, the train that crosses the country bringing migrants into the United States.

At this time, The Bosses have been proposed to be nominated to receive the Princess of Asturias Award for Concord 2015.

Ana Maria Cetto, a researcher at the UNAM This year will be unforgettable for Ana Maria Cetto. The PhD in Physics from UNAM heads the construction of the Museum of Light in University City, an ambitious project of 10,000 square meters and an investment of over 350 million pesos (mp), which is in charge of the architectural firm Nuño MacGregor De Buen.

“You make decisions every day and there are times that take years to be felt the effects. For me, the most important decision is to put all my efforts so that this museum is running in 2016,” said Cetto.

The researcher is also one of the main organizers of the International Year of Light, which opened in Paris in early 2015 and will close in February in the city of Merida. She was a participant of the Nobel Peace Prize as a member of the Executive Committee of the Pugwash Conferences and participant of the 1995 Nobel Peace Prize as Deputy Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency 2005.

Daniela Liebman, Pianist Daniela is petit for her 13 years.

Born in Guadalajara, Jalisco, she began studying piano at age five and at eight debuted in a concert with the Symphony of Aguascalientes, thus became the youngest in Mexico to play as a soloist with a professional orchestra.

This year, she signed a contract with Park Avenue Artists, a US agency; she has also performed at Carnegie Hall and last year debuted at the Cervantino Festival in Guanajuato. She was also recognized with the National Youth Award in 2014.

Dafne Almazán, Child Prodigy On August 12, Dafne - at 13 years old will become the youngest psychologist in the world when she receives her online degree from Monterrey Tech. Dafne plans to apply for her master’s degree in education and then pursue a doctoral degree.

The genius girl received her first years of education at (Cedat), an institution run by her parents.

She obtained her primary diploma at six years of age, took two years to finish high school and started college at 10.

Silvia Torres Peimbert , an astronomer and researcher She first fell in love with physics and eventually found her way into astronomy. Silvia Torres this year will become the first Latin American woman to assume the post of president of the International Astronomical Union (IAU, for its acronym in English), from 2015 to 2018. The Mexican scientist studied physics at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), is a researcher emeritus, and has a doctorate in astronomy from the University of California, Berkeley.

She received the National Science Prize, the L’Oréal-Unesco Award for women scientists in Latin America in 2011 and Hans A. Bethe Prize of the American Physical Society in 2012 for her research on planetary nebulae.

14

SUDOKU Challenge your brain! Sudoku is easy to play and the rules are simple.

Fill in the blanks so that each row, each column, and each of the nine 3x3 grids contain only one of each of the numbers 1 through 9.

brain teasers

Jun 25 - Jul 1st, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

charities

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Jun 25 - Jul 1st, 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