Issue 952, July 2 - 8, 2015 by Vallarta Tribune

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News SPANISH MONARCHS VISIT

Jul 2nd - 8, 2015 Free Issue 952

Local CANTINFLAS

Holiday 4th of july

Madeline Milne

arte x la calle mexicoproyecta parque lazaro cardenas

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.

Jul 2nd - 8, 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 PEACEAnimal By Gretchen DeWitt EDUCATION PROGRAM: Director Leslie Caratachea presented to 220 students and the Club de Leones school in colonia 5 de diciembre on June 23rd. 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 HOMES NEEDED: For the thousands of dogs and cats on the streets here, for hundreds of cats and dogs in refuges and in foster homes, and for dozens of healthy and beautiful dogs and cats at the Centro de Acopio, the city´s pound. Dogs at the Centro de Acopio are only walked twice a week by volunteers organized by Friends of Puerto Vallarta Animals. Food is always needed. The government contributes two weeks of food annually. Foster homes are needed for cats and dogs. Please contact the animal rescue organizations listed here. Most are found on Facebook or at www.peaceanimals.org ADOPCIÓNES VALLARTA Adopt Me PV Adopta un Amigo ADOPTA UN AMIGO NAYARIT Adopta Puerto Vallarta Amigos de los otros animales Animalistas ANIMALISTAS DE PUERTO VALLARTA

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

ANGELICAT AyudaMutt Centro de Acopio Animal Cuidando sus Huelitos Friends of Puerto Vallarta Animals Helping Pets in Puerto Vallarta LADRA Match Dog Com MexPup

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

Jul 2nd - 8, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Editor’s

Note

editor@vallartatribune.com

s you know, last week I headed off for a few days of R&R, playing tourist in Puerto Vallarta. My boyfriend and I stayed one night in an all-inclusive that shall remain unnamed. The idea was we would drink like fish, play some water polo and then recuperate with a greasy breakfast. It was terrible. I don’t know why I think it will ever be good. How soon I forget. Or perhaps it’s a defense mechanism and I just block it from memory. Anyways none of the ‘restaurants’ were open and the buffet was hideous if you lean towards healthy or vegetarian or anything not brown. The drinks were essentially syrup mixed with ice and a dash of pool water masquerading as vodka. The rooms were spartan, though in all fairness, clean. The pool filled to overflow with children, who were actually the highlight of the trip. The cutest little girls were enthralled with my ‘hipster’ sunglasses and the fact that I spoke English. I spent a couple hours teaching them how to say, “Hello, my name is, I am 10 years old, I love pizza.” For the price I didn’t expect much more, though I question why not? I certainly did not eat, nor drink, the amount I paid to spend 19 hours there. Ridiculous check-in/check-out hours as well. Of course I was over it and left as early as possible. After this debacle, we high tailed it over to the Westin in Marina Vallarta and spent three quiet relaxing days, floating in the pool, reading books, watching movies, soaking in the air conditioning and ordering room service. I think this will become a regular feature on my list of monthly to-do’s, right up there with mani-pedi’s, and stopping at Lemongrass (best woman’s clothing store in Vallarta IMHO) for a pick-me-up. This all is not to say that there are no good

all-inclusives. I am sure it’s a matter of quality (and price) over quantity. I stayed at Secrets a few years ago when it opened and I loved it. I’ve also stayed in a couple on Riviera Maya that were spectacular. My worry is that people are basing their expectations of Mexico and Puerto Vallarta specifically at these lower rung resorts and leaving with a bad taste in their mouth, literally. Perhaps I should review all the local area all-inclusives? That’s a legitimate business expense, right? *If you’re the marketing director for local AI resort, give me a call. I’m sure we could work something out. My preference is to support small businesses and I love the personalized service you get at the boutique hotels, of which we have many excellent ones in Vallarta and across Mexico, but sometimes the lure of the endless piña coladas and non-stop bacon is too much to resist. Heading to Canada this week and travelling with a rescue dog, bound for life in the Okanagan. Lucky girl! If you are traveling to Canada or the US, there are plenty of rescue animals waiting for transportation to their new furr-ever homes. Its relatively simple, and costs you nothing but time and a little foot room. Please contact one of the many rescue organizations within these pages. Hasta luego! Madeline

Adorable Dog In The Spotlight... CHASE

hase is a beautiful boy with the most gorgeous brindle coat. He is a year and a half old Lab mix weighing 45 pounds. Chase is very good with other dogs and even gets along with cats. As you might expect, he is a friendly and playful little guy but also fairly calm. He is the perfect companion for walks through your neighborhood. Chase has been neutered, dewormed and is current on all his vaccinations. Contact us at spcapv@gmail.com if you are ready to make Chase a part of your family.

SPCA of Puerto Vallarta

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.

Janice Gonzalez

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. 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. 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.

Emergencies: 060 Red Cross: 065 Non-Emergency Police 322.290.0507

333.268.2145 Immigration: 322.224.7719

Fire Department: 322.223.9476

Consumer Protection: 01.800.468.8722

Ambulance: 322.222.1533

Consulates American Consulate Nuevo Vallarta: 322.222.0069 24 hrs Guadalajara:

Tourism Offices Jalisco: 322.221.2676 Nayarit: 322.297.1006

Canadian Consulate 322.293.2894 24 hrs: 1.800.706.2900

news

No visas for Mexicans, says Liberal leader Promise comes as parties prepare for fall election in Canada

exico was the subject of an election promise by Canadian Liberal Party leader Justin Trudeau. With a federal election scheduled for October, the country’s political parties are revving up for the campaign and, in Trudeau’s case, finding some ammunition to the south. Should his party be elected to govern, Trudeau told an audience in Ottawa, the visa requirement imposed by the current administration in 2009 would be lifted. Furthermore, he would host a new trilateral summit, known as the Three Amigos Summit, to repair relations with the United States and Mexico. “Mexico is now an equal or greater strategic preoccupation in Washington than Canada. That basic fact cannot be wished away,” Trudeau said. “As with the United States, [Prime Minister Stephen] Harper’s approach to relations with Mexico has been belligerent and borderline churlish.” Harper postponed the summit that had been scheduled for last February without offering any

explanation. Trudeau described the visa requirement as something that “surprised and needlessly embarrassed the Mexicans, and quite frankly should have been reversed long ago.” The Mexican Ambassador to Canada welcomed the Liberal leader’s promise, describing the visa issue as a “major irritant.” Francisco Suárez said he was “delighted” with the announcement though he made it clear Mexico would respect Canada’s political process. “Obviously, we have been fighting all along to eliminate the visa requirement,” he said. “That’s very important in improving the relationship.” The federal government responded by saying Trudeau is “apparently unaware of a planned move to fast, secure electronic travel authorization for Mexico,” referring to the Electronic Travel Authorization program. Mexico’s inclusion in the program was announced in April. Kevin Menard, press secretary for Immigration Minister Chris Alexander, said in an email to CBC News that “under [Harper], Canada introduced 10-year multiple-entry visa with Mexico and faster visa streams.” Mexico Daily News

y 2018, 100 million people will have access to high-speed mobile Internet The telecommunications giant AT&T today announced plans to offer high-speed mobile Internet service to more than 100 million Mexicans by the end of 2018. Company chairman and CEO Randall Stephenson said US $3 billion would be invested in building the Mexico network and creating “the first-ever North American Mobile Service Area.” That area will cover 400 million people in Mexico and the United States with a seamless network, linking “our two countries’ economies, people and cultures like never before.” The investment is new money; coming on top of the $4.4 billion AT&T has spent already this year to acquire Mexican mobile providers Iusacell and Nextel México. The company says the first phase will be completed in the next six months and provide state-ofthe-art mobile service to some 40 million people. By the end of 2016 it will reach 75 million people, and by the end of 2018, 100 million. Stephenson, who met today with President Peña Nieto to advise him of AT&T’s plans, praised the administration’s reforms, saying they have given the firm the ability to invest in “building an advanced mobile network . . . ” He described the mobile Internet in the U.S. as “an engine of economic growth” and forecast it would do the same for Mexico.

Jul 2nd - 8, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

AT&T to spend $3 bn on mobile network

“Beyond accelerating economic growth, the mobile Internet is about changing the way people live and work, keeping families better connected, opening up new educational and health care opportunities, and strengthening and empowering communities.” New plans are coming next month for Mexican customers that will take advantage of the new North American service area, allowing them to use their voice, data and text message plans while in the U.S. They will also be able to use available community minutes to call people in the U.S. who are on the AT&T network. It will be one phone and one plan covering two countries, the company said. AT&T is also going to offer billing for Google Play services, where customers with Android devices can download products and have

the charges added to their monthly wireless bill. Also in the works are some community-based initiatives. • In the coming months it will launch its “It Can Wait” campaign, designed to discourage people from texting and driving, in Mexico City. • AT&T says it will be the first Mexican carrier to work with the Amber Alert program at the national level. Iusacell, Nextel and Unefon users will receive text messages when a child is reported missing or abducted in their area. • The company will invest in new learning opportunities for high school students by working with non-profit organizations focused on education. Stephenson said as well that one of the firm’s goals is to be one of the best employers in Mexico, and it will offer training support and other programs for its staff. Mexico News Daily

NBC dumps Trump after incendiary remarks on Mexicans By Colby Itkowitz www.washingtonpost.com

BCUniversal announced Monday that it would no longer be working with Donald Trump, including on his hit reality show "The Apprentice." Following the lead of Spanish-language broadcaster Univision, which severed its partnership with Trump last week, NBC cited Trump's "recent derogatory statements" about Mexican immigrants. NBC, like Univision, said it would no longer air the Trump-partnered pageants Miss USA and Miss Universe. Trump's "Celebrity Apprentice" had been renewed, but was on hold as Trump formally launched a campaign to seek the Republican nomination for president. NBC noted in a statement that Trump

would not be participating in the program, but that the show would continue. Over the weekend, a number of Hispanic groups put pressure on NBC to cut off Trump after his comments at his June 16 presidential announcement rally that immigrants coming over the U.S.Mexican border were "rapists" and drug dealers. Soon after NBC's announcement, Trump released a statement doubling down on his remarks and criticizing the network. “If NBC is so weak and so foolish to not understand the serious illegal immigration problem in the United States, coupled with the horrendous and unfair trade deals we are making with Mexico, then their contract violating closure of Miss Universe/Miss USA will be determined in court," he said. "Furthermore, they will stand

behind lying Brian Williams, but won’t stand behind people that tell it like it is, as unpleasant as that may be.” NBC had initially tried to distance itself from Trump's remarks, saying it did not share his views. But a Change.org petition calling on NBC to "Cancel Miss USA, Miss Universe, and the Apprentice" gained more than 200,000 signatures. Trump’s attorney was not immediately available for comment. In an interview earlier this month about the future of "The Apprentice," Trump said, “I love NBC, we’ve had a tremendous success together but I have to do what I’m doing now.” It was unclear then whether NBC would wait to see how Trump's presidential run played out before deciding on another host. Trump has refused to walk back

his controversial comments, but in an interview on CNN’s "State of the Union" on Sunday, said he still believes a large percentage of undocumented immigrants are criminals, but “it’s not Mexicans, necessarily. They’re coming from all over.” Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, who in some polls is the only Republican narrowly ahead of Trump, initially smiled and turned away when told by reporters about NBC's decision, but then added: "He's worth nine billion bucks, so he'll be able to survive." Running for president might just prove to be a bad business for the Trump Empire. As Trump loses his media partnerships, there is also an ongoing effort to convince Macy's to drop Trump's clothing line. The chain sells Trump brand ties, dress shirts, fragrances, and home goods, as well as his

daughter Ivanka Trump's shoes and women's clothing. That petition, on MoveOn.org, has close to 700,000 signatures. Angelo Carusone, the executive vice president of Media Matters, led the first Macy's "Dump Trump" in 2012 after Trump offered to give money to a charity of President Obama's choice if he released his long form birth certificate. He planned to re-up the campaign after Trump's presidential announcement. "Macy's always had cover from NBC to the extent that it was willing to maintain that relationship," Carusone said. "Not only has Macy's just lost that cover, but NBC made it about values when they made that decision. Now (Macy's) on the hook for the same values question." Macy's did not immediately return request for comment.

news

05 By Juan Pablo Hernández

egree in Communication Science. Reporter for Vallarta Lifestyles magazine. Actor and presently director of the Dionisio Theater group. In 1999, I saw a play for the first time in Puerto Vallarta. “Retablo, Quién Como Dios” (Tableau, Who As God) was the title. Soledad Garcia directed her theater group “Aguila o Sol”. It was presented at the Municipal Library “Ciudades Hermanas” (Sister Cities) located in Parque Hidalgo (this library later moved to colonia Mojoneras). Two important names in local theater were standouts in the cast: Veronica Muñiz and Wally Lobatto. Fifteen years have now gone by and Puerto Vallarta and its theatre activity have come a long way. Theater infrastructure has grown to the delight of its creators, no matter what the formats, styles and preparation of local theater groups are. Formal and professional theater activity is hindered and slowed down without

The growth of stage venues in Puerto Vallarta a page in local theater history adequate spaces. By the year 2000 Puerto Vallarta had the Centro Cultural Cuale and the CECATUR as “formal” venues for the presentation of performances, considered by some as just improvisations, as back then the Cuale auditorium was in bad shape and it was not until 2003 that it was remodeled with a state and municipal budget, as well as money from the National Council for Culture and Arts (CONACULTA). At about the same time in 2003, the Juan Luis Cifuentes Lemus auditorium of the Centro Universitario de la Costa was built. At the beginning, it presented plays, film festivals and even a classic ballet. Another space that housed performing arts, approximately between 2003 and 2006, was called L’Opera. It was one of the

first independent venues that did everything from present art films to provide spaces for painters, musicians and independent plays. Performing arts require spaces that are in accordance to the growth of the city.

Performing Arts Options in Puerto Vallarta Presently, Puerto Vallarta has the CECATUR auditorium, the Centro Cultural Cuale, The Palm, the Boutique Theatre, Stages, the Juan Luis Cifuentes Lemus auditorium and, in Nuevo Vallarta, the NV Stage and Forum just opened. The Tercera Llamada also just opened its doors across from the Macroplaza in Pitillal. Each of these venues offers diverse stage options. CECATUR Auditorium houses

Spanish Monarchs on an Official Three-Day Visit to Mexico The Spanish King and Queen arrived in Mexico City on Sunday on their first official visit to a Latin American country since the crowning of Felipe VI in June 2014. The three-day visit will include several political, cultural and economic events. King Felipe and Queen Letizia, accompanied by Spain’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Jose Manuel Garcia-Margallo, landed at Mexico City International Airport around 20:00 local time in a Spanish Air Force plane, where they were received by Mexican Secretary of Foreign Affairs Jose Antonio Meade and his Undersecretary Carlos de Icaza. Mexico’s ambassador in Madrid, Roberta Lajous, and her Spanish counterpart, Luis Fernandez Cid, were also present. The royal couple were received on the red carpet and accorded guard of honor by the presidential guards. They were all smiles, as they posed in front of the media covering their arrival. The Spanish delegation also included Head of the Royal Household of Spain, Jaime de Alfonsin; High Commissioner of Government, Brand Spain, Carlos Espi-

Jul 2nd - 8, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

nosa de los Monteros and Secretary of State for Trade, Jaime Garcia Legaz, among others. The state visit begins on Monday with an offering of flowers at Monumento de Los Niños Heroes (Boy Heroes Monument) in Chapultepec Park, followed by a ceremonial welcome at Campo de Marte by Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto and his wife Angelica Rivera. Later, the Spanish king and queen will be received by Mexico City mayor Miguel Angel Mancera at the city council at Zocalo, Mexico City’s main square, and awarded the title of Distinguished Guests of Mexico City and given the “Keys of the City.” In Mexico’s presidential palace,

Peña Nieto and King Felipe, accompanied by delegates of both countries, will hold a meeting, followed by a private luncheon for the royal couple. The first day of tour will end with an official dinner at the National Palace. On Tuesday, the agenda will include a business forum in the city, an address by Felipe VI before the Senate, a lunch meet with personalities from diverse sections of the Mexican society and signing of the Servicio Internacional de Evaluacion de la Lengua Española. The trip concludes on Wednesday with a tour of the colonial city of Zacatecas.

www.laht.com

“Cartelera Escenica” which presents different dance, theater and music performances every Friday. Centro Cultural Cuale offers the works of the Municipal Theater Group directed by Alberto Fabian as well as plays by independent theater groups. The Palm has cabaret shows in English with well-known performers of this genre who are mainly from the United States. The Boutique Theatre presents plays and musicals in English, which they themselves produce. Stages, where plays and cabaret shows are performed in English during winter, and some in Spanish, particularly during the summer season. Juan Luis Cifuentes Lemus Auditorium provides a space for special events which mainly

involve the University community directly. The NV Stage and Forum houses plays, dance and music performances in English. Tercera Llamada is a place for independent theater groups with intimate productions. Teatro Vallarta, an important space which underwent a transformation, is now Viva Tequila, an interactive museum project which offers shows. To this day Teatro Vallarta continues offering a space for performances, concerts and plays. This area is definitely going through a decisive moment regarding performing arts and within the next two years, the results and scope of this increase of activity, will be felt. Original: www.visitpuertovallarta.com

Slim’s Inbursa Finalizes $234 Million Acquisition of WalMart de Mexico Bank Unit

rupo Financiero Inbursa, controlled by Mexican multi-billionaire Carlos Slim, has finalized a deal to acquire Wal-Mart de Mexico’s banking unit, Banco Walmart, for 3.6 billion pesos ($234 million), the companies said in separate filings with the Mexican Stock Exchange. The deal closed after the companies obtained the necessary regulatory approval. Inbursa said Tuesday that the acquisition, combined with its commercial alliance with Walmex’s self-service retail chain, will allow the company to accelerate implementation of its retail banking strategy by offering attractive products and the highest-quality service to more

customers. Banco Walmart has 8.1 billion pesos ($523 million) in assets, a 5.4-billion-peso ($352-million) credit portfolio and 2.1 billion pesos ($138 million) in equity, the Slim-controlled company said. Walmex said that following the sale the two companies will create a commercial alliance aimed at strengthening their financial services offering to all of their customers. In March, the Cofece anti-trust regulator authorized the deal after determining that it would not have a negative impact on competition. The companies had informed Cofece about the planned transaction last December. www.laht.com

local

Now Playing on Netflix

By Ariel O’Donnell

arielod@hotmail.com

ear God it’s been hot here in Puerto Vallarta!! I foolishly check the internet on an hourly basis for some sign of rain, but those liars at Weather. com are full of more promises than a seasoned Chicago pimp. And now they seem to just be splitting the odds, with their daily roulette wheel forecast, which includes a non-committal image of a cloud, next to a little chunk of sunshine, attached to a bolt of lightning and what appears to be a few drops of rain? I’m not sure who runs this website, but clearly either cannabis consumption or a Ouija Board is involved in their method of forecast. But enough with my trifling complaints about our climate, since the real purpose of this article is to convey my deep and abiding love for all that is NETFLIX! If you aren’t a subscriber, you desperately need to become one!! It’s the perfect remedy for a hot and muggy afternoon. The cost is a mere $8.99 USD per month for your ticket to escape into an orgy of cinematic possibilities: Documentaries, Dramas, TV Series, Horror, Comedy, and so much more. Some of my recent top picks include: • What Happened, Miss Simone?

-An intense and well-crafted look at the life of genius performer Nina Simone. • Supermensch: The Legend of Shep Gordon- A charming documentary about Alice Cooper’s manager. • Spanglish -Adam Sandler falls in love with the maid. • Descent -VERY SCARY!! Tough attractive women fight hideous demons in a cave. • Another Woman-Woody Allen classic, with the incomparable Gena Rowlands. My regular genre choices tend to be Documentary or Comedy, seeing that I have a 9-year-old, who is really into Adam Sandler and giant snakes. But, since my son was at a birthday party, I perused the Drama category, and saw that August: Osage County (released in 2013) was in the mix. After viewing this camp gem, I’ve renamed the film: August: Osage County, the Wrath of Meryl Streep! The movie stars Ms. Streep, Julia Roberts, Sam Shepard, and assorted other excellent but hopelessly incidental actors. I say “incidental” because they had the grave misfortune of being cast in a film with Meryl. Osage is about an extremely

Random Thoughts from the Tribune sports Desks By Joel Hansen

he fifth annual International Resort Real Estate Summit (A.I.R.E.S.) was held at the Paradise Village Resort in Nuevo Vallarta last week from June 25-27. The event was hosted by 2015

AMPI President Tony Hanna from Veracruz and the driving force behind the event, Miguel Lemus, from Lemmus Real Estate. The event highlighted emerging market trends and potential oppor-

Jul 2nd - 8, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

unhappy family in Oklahoma. Streep plays the pill- popping matriarch, who keeps a dark and tormented household, to match her equally dark and tormented soul. Normally Streep’s scenery chewing is manageable. Especially when the storyline makes her character the primary focus (Iron Lady, Sophie’s Choice, Out of Africa). Or when the director knows how to handle her lust for prominence with her patent series of ticks and habitual movements. But the unlucky cast of Osage is just playing second fiddle to Streep’s quest for Cinematic World Domination. Sam Shepard opens the film with some vaguely coherent rambling about drinking whiskey, taking pills and T.S. Eliot. Streep makes her first drugged out entrance in this scene, and Shepard promptly leaves the premises and commits suicide. He escapes the film in the nick of time, preserving his dignity in the shadow of Streep. Julia Roberts, Streep’s daughter, arrives shortly thereafter looking remarkably disheveled, as though she’s just rolled out of bed and onto the set to face her fate at the hands of Meryl. Roberts makes a valiant attempt to battle Streep’s incessant upstaging by playing the histrionic card, which is somewhat effective, but clearly her weaponry is not sufficient. And she too throws in the towel and drives back to Denver. Ewan McGregor is totally unrecognizable and lost in this deep estrogen nightmare. He cowers and winces as Roberts’ estranged husband. At one point he does move around a little bit to pick up a chair, but otherwise he fades into the brown and tan scenery.

Chris Cooper, who is always a delight, at least in my book, seems vaguely game for the fight at first, and then it’s clear that hopelessness and defeat has set in when Meryl pulls out the big castration guns and lops off the small semblance of manhood that Cooper’s character once had. Abigail Breslin charmed us all in Little Miss Sunshine (currently playing on Netflix, a great movie!), doesn’t appear to have been given a script for the film. A skilled performer, Miss Breslin was seemingly provided one piece of direction, “Be sure to look at the person who is presently speaking.” Benedict Cumberbatch uses his Autism spectrum acting style to perfect effect as Alan Turing in The Imitation Game (currently in Netflix rotation, and highly recommended), but in Osage, Cumber-

batch turns into a sad sack capon in search of a film. Juliette Lewis, like Abigail Breslin, was not given a script, and was summarily hurled into the shark tank to fend for herself against Streep’s rapacious devouring of anyone and anything in her way. Everyone else is dragged along for Meryl’s Shock and Awe spectacle, until, after two long and ungrateful hours, Streep is finally abandoned by all co-stars and left in the hands of actress Misty Upham, who plays the verbally abused Cherokee maid. Even the valiant Cherokee seems reticent to come to Streep’s aid, as she is in the middle of her catfish lunch up in her dumpy attic room. Questions, comments, angry tirades and Netflix suggestions are always appreciated! Contact me

tunities present in both master planned resort communities, as well as luxury beachfront properties in areas of Mexico such as Cancun, Riviera Maya, Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta. The event featured speakers in both conference and panel discussions, who shared their expertise, covering various subjects, such as baby boomer investments in San Miguel de Allende and other retirement destinations, marketing trends, insurance ownership and trusts, medical tourism and how it affects real estate decisions for expats and the increasing role of China in the Mexican Market place. A few highlights that stood out were: during the panel discussion involving Carlos Manuel Joaquin

Gómez from Mexico Tourism Board and FONATUR Marketing Sub-Director José Armando García Triana Camil they were questioned about the future of Litibu and if/when additional investment could be expected to complete (or restart) the mess that they created there. Rather than give any type of noteworthy answer Garcia skirted the answer and began to highlight upcoming projects in Sinaloa rather than discuss the failed projects (so far) of Litibu and to a lesser extent Loreto, but some truly fine politicking for sure. Javier Govi proved to be a disappointing speaker. Presented as an expert on Baby Boomers, much of his information was inaccurate regarding present infrastructure for

retirees here in Mexico or comprised of statistics that have been taken secondhand and presented as his own. Perhaps the hottest topic at the event was the development of Costalegre, the proposed airport and the list of heavy hitting investors coming to the region. As a longtime supporter of AMPI it is great to see successful events like this one growing and attracting attention from both Realtors in Mexico, but also from Canada and the United States who are looking to educate themselves on the possibilities that exist in Mexico. The event featured an Expo hall for related business and Puerto Vallarta was well represented by many local business, including Tropicasa, Garza Blanca, Mexlend and Mexi-Go!.

local

Laugh about life and make millions happy - Cantinflas: The Mexican Legend 1911-1993

Jul 2nd - 8, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Paradise

and Parenting Leza Warkentin mommyinmexico.wordpress.com

Rescue Recap

By Fred Jacobs

antinflas was born as Mario Moreno in 1911 in a middleclass section of Mexico City. He is well remembered as an actor and comedian but also as a social reformer. He was very outspoken and admired by millions all over the word. He was called the Charlie Chaplin of Mexico and often compared to Grouch Marx. He was a beloved movie star in Mexico and Latin America. He was a personal friend of Elizabeth Taylor and her husband Mike Todd who was the producer of, “AROUND THE WORLD in 80 DAYS”. Filmed in 1956, it was a big money maker. His second big movie was made in 1960 called, “PEPE” with Shirley Jones and Ricardo Montalban. It contained cameos of Bing Crosby, Judy Garland and Frank Sinatra. Unfortunately it was financial flop. In all, Cantiflas made 49 movies in Mexico and was considered a bona-fide superstar. He helped to make Mexico the film center of Latin America. His last movie was made in 1981 after 50 years of stardom. From 1936 until 1966 he was married to a Russian lady named Valentine Ivanovo. She died of cancer. They both worked for her father in a tent circus but he did not approve of the marriage. He was no angel and during his marriage he had an affair with another lady that produced a son. Somehow, that son was adopted by another couple but ultimately inherited all of his films and estate. He was the 6th of 12 children. Moreno started as bull and prizefighter on the streets to make a few pesos to support his family. He was a circus performer who did acrobatics and imitations. In later

years he became well known for his imitations of prominent people and his Matador bull fight scenes. Diego Riviera painted his portrait symbolically showing how his fellow citizen’s felt about him. His support of local charities made him a folk hero. He died a wealthy man because he refused to pay income tax. His philosophy was to support the needy and he was good at it. In his later years he lived in Los Angeles and Houston. He had a US girlfriend named Joyce Jett. He befriended President Lyndon Johnson when he was Congressman. He stayed out of the limelight in his last years. In 1982 he appeared in a christmas special for the Mexican poor with the President. He died of lung Cancer in 1993 at the age of 81. His funeral in Mexico City was a huge event. It lasted three days with heads of state and the church attending. As thousands wanted to see this great man and Mexican legend for the last time. After his death, a nephew sued the adopted son for the estate. The battle lasted twelve years but in the end Columbia Pictures claimed the rights to all the pictures. And they won after eight more years. To this day these films are big money makers in the Latin world.

f you read my column last week, you will know that my daughter rescued two little puppies from a dumpster, and I asked for your help. We raised enough money for the puppies’ immediate care and future vaccinations. Happily, we were able to find homes for the puppies, thanks to so many pages on social media that connect animals to families. We will help to arrange a vaccination schedule with the new owners and follow up to make sure they are well cared for. We have never actually coordinated a rescue ourselves before, even though we consider ourselves animal activists. Both of our dogs are rescues. We have volunteered with MexPup as a foster family and with the SPCA as dog walkers and kitten huggers. Let me tell you what I’ve learned from the experience. Animal rescue is not a money-making venture. In fact, it is unbelievably costly. It’s costly in a financial way, and it’s costly in a very personal way. In our case, we were fortunate to find loving homes for these two puppies. And yet, I am wiping my children’s tears at night because they miss those sweet little girls.

The emotional cost was high, but we agree that we would do it all over again. I so admire our local animal rescuers, who constantly deal with these costs .They act without hesitation. They work tirelessly to find homes for each animal. They weep for the ones they can’t save, and they rage against the tragedy and the loss they so often face. They ask for no thanks, and rarely get any besides the undying gratitude of so many canine and feline friends. And for them, that’s more than enough to keep going. To all of you who do so much for animals every day, I dedicate this list of Things People Say (But Really Shouldn’t) To Animal Rescuers: 1) “Why don’t you just keep them?” We do keep them. We already have more than we can afford both space-wise and money-wise. We can’t keep them all, but that doesn’t mean we can walk by and leave them to die on the street. Can you keep them? That’s what I thought. 2) “Just leave them with the SPCA or MexPup” The pet shelters and local organizations would love to help every street animal in need. But unders-

tand that they are already over capacity. Every. Single. One. If you take an animal off the street and into your home, you have already committed to helping that animal. There’s a strong social media network out there that is happy to help you get the word out and offer advice. 3) “That’s not the way to do an animal rescue.” There were a variety of (strong) opinions on what we were doing. At the end of the day, there is no magic formula to rescue an animal. We did our very best, and we got the puppies off the street. 4) “I would totally help you, but I don’t have the time/space/ insert other reason.” The thing is, that is kind of discouraging to hear. It probably made you feel better, though, and I understand that. So I’ll forgive you for that one and thank you for the kind thought. 5) “You know, there are so many people who need help. Why would you spend so much time and money on an animal?” Oh, that one might be my favorite. Please explain that to my daughter with her arms full of starving, sick puppies. Animal rescuers are notorious for being involved in many other projects besides animal rights. Anyone who devotes so much time and care to any helpless being is brimming with more empathy and compassion than is certainly good for them. Not to mention that animals, who give us so much love and loyalty, deserve to live healthy, happy lives. Thanks to all the animal lovers out there who answered our call. I’d like to particularly thank two rescue angels, Mona and Brian, for your advice and help. We called, you came, and two lives were saved. The cost was high, but the rewards were so much greater.

Vallarta Shopping Directory and events

www.puertovallartadining-shopping.com

elcome returning visitors, residents and new tourists to Puerto Vallarta, our paradise nestled between the mountains and the sea. Here you will find the largest variety of dining, shopping, entertainment and fun of any tropical destination. This page is dedicated to information about members of the most complete and up to date online directory of the best restaurants and businesses that Vallarta has to offer the world, not only the ones listed on this page but a total of about 200 local enterprises in many different categories. Go to www.puertovallar tadining-shopping. com or Vallarta Shopping Directory and click on any of these pages to explore the fantastic array of dining spots and businesses in the Bay of Banderas area. Best Restaurants, Cafes, Cyber Cafes, Books, Boutiques, Clothing And Accessories, Jewelry, Art Galle-

ries, Handicraft And Leather Shops, Food And Organic Products, Services, Travel Agencies, Tours, Beauty Shops And Spas, Drug Stores And Nutrition, Interior Decor & Furniture ,Florists, Real Estate Companies, Boutique Hotels, Entertainment, Optical Services, The Marina And Nayarit. We are very proud of our beautiful city and want our visitors and residents to explore the entire area and to experience the true flavor of Mexican culture and cuisine. Please visit our Centro Historico, the heart of Vallarta, centered around the famous crowned church and the Main Plaza where you will see the nostalgic bandstand where the local band plays every Thursday and Sunday nights. Also enjoy the variety of free musical entertainment in Los Arcos outdoor theater, just across from the plaza, first class live theater shows and some of our finest

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

dining spots all located in central and southside of PuertoVallarta.. Other projects of the dining and shopping guide are our Facebook page www.facebook.com/vallartashoppingdirectory and

the Marsol Market by the pier is every Friday from 9:30 to 1:30 p.m. where you will find a great selection of products by local vendors all year long. Have fun and enjoy your stay in Puerto Vallarta

Amazon launches in Mexico By Sarah Perez Amazon formally announced this week its expansion into physical goods sales in Mexico. The company had previously only offered Kindle e-books on its online site which opened for Mexican customers in 2013. Today on Amazon.com.mx, Amazon will introduce a Spanish-language site featuring millions of items including consumer electronics, kitchen and home items, sports equipment, tools, baby, health and personal care products, jewelry, music, books, movies, software and more. The company is also launching its online selling service for Mexican businesses and sellers as well as its Fulfillment by Amazon service. Amazon made special mention of the fact that it was also introducing three of its Kindle devices in its Mexican online store: the MXN 1,499 Kindle, the new Kindle Paperwhite, and the Kindle Voyage. It also noted that customers in this market would be able to shop online or via mobile devices, using the Amazon app on iTunes and Google Play. News of Amazon’s plans to expand in Mexico were announced last week, but today marks the official announcement and the launch of the new site. In the region, Mexico will now compete with other e-commerce companies, including MercadoLibre, Walmart and Inditex, among others. The arrival will boost Mexico’s e-commerce sector, which is growing at 34 percent annually. Amazon also stated that Mexico was due to see increased sales of 150 percent between 2013

and 2018, going from $2.2 billion to $5.5 billion. The study said that the number of Mexican online buyers would increase by 114 percent, from 8.4 million in 2013 to 18 million in 2018. That study was released ahead of Amazon’s announcement, however. Mexico has over 110 million inhabitants, but its e-commerce industry is small though growing. Amazon’s arrival will clearly impact the market, where, according to an AMIPCI survey of Mexican Internet users, 75% had made at least one online purchase in the first trimester of 2015. Original: techcrunch.com

International Friendship Club WE HELP KIDS WITH CLEFT PALATES We provide free cleft palate surgeries and ongoing therapies to children suffering from cleft palates and/or cleft lip. For more information: Office: Edificio Parian del Puente #13, Calle Libertad, corner with Miramar.

Phone: (322) 222 – 5466 www.ifcvallarta.com

independence day

For a holiday, it’s very American to go Spanish By M. Carrie Allan Special to The Washington Post.

ith Independence Day celebrations upon us, those of you not trying to figure out a fireworks-watching strategy that won't leave you in traffic till 2 a.m. may instead be working out the most quintessentially 'Murican dishes and drinks to ply guests with. Heck, maybe you're doing both: After all, if we can't make an awful lot of noise while consuming an awful lot of food, why did we bother having a revolution? The approach of the holiday got me thinking back even earlier, to the Columbian Exchange, that period in the 15th and 16th centuries when waves of European exploration resulted in the interchange of agriculture, technology and ideas (and, P.S., smallpox) between "Old" World and "New." Many summer picnic classics like ripe tomatoes, grilled corn and potato salad depend on those New World ingredients; others, like the fruit in our American-asapple-pies, came over from Europe. What many European explorers also brought was sherry, a fortified Spanish wine that has been made in Andalusia for centuries. As Talia Baiocchi writes in her James Beard Award-nominated 2014 book "Sherry: A Modern Guide to the Wine World's Best-Kept Secret," by the time Columbus rocked up in the Bahamas, it's possible that he and his crew "had spent the length of the Atlantic journey on a sherry bender. Like many of the A-list explorers of the late fifteenth and early sixteenth centuries, he had a thing for it." A recent symposium I had the honor to moderate at the National Archives, "American Drinking B.C. (Before the Cocktail)," part of a series connected to the Spirited Republic exhibit, homed in on that period and thus on sherry and the agave-based alcohols made in Mesoamerica long before Columbus showed up. The two spirits form "the intersection" between the culture that arrived and the culture that was already here, says Derek Brown, chief spirits adviser for the exhibit and owner of several local bars, including sherry-focused Mockingbird Hill. That "thing" the explorers had for sherry stuck and grew, spreading through the colonies via ongoing trade with Europe. Sherry was a common punch ingredient, and in the late 1800s, the sherry cobbler, a simple yet summer-perfect concoction of sherry, sugar, citrus and

ice, was so beloved that it became known as the drink that popularized the straw. Much of that historical Americana was, until recently, largely unfamiliar to Spanish sherry producers, says Steve Olson, a wine and spirits educator and beverage consultant who — with Brown and David Suro-Pinera of Siembra Azul tequila — led the panel at the National Archives seminar. When sherry producers and the Spanish trade commission hired Olson in the late 1990s to introduce more American consumers to sherry, he told producers that — along with educating chefs and sommeliers — they should be encouraging sherry's use in cocktails. "They didn't want to do that, because that would cheapen their sherry," he says. "I said, 'No. In this country . . . when we put a spirit in a cocktail, we're elevating it. If you see your sherry in a drink next to a premium spirit . . . it's going to say, hey, wait a minute, this must be good stuff.' " The sherry category contains wines ranging from dry as dust to sweet as treacle, and that might be a challenge for winning over U.S. drinkers. Despite many articles preaching the sherry gospel, noting

its increased popularity among bartenders and passionate following among cognoscenti, U.S. sherry sales have stayed at a virtual flatline over the past decade. To tell a friend that you like sherry is a bit like saying you like "vegetables" or "the Dutch": a sweeping endorsement of a category so diverse that claims of universal affection are hard to credit. Yet sherry itself is a wonderful teacher, and happily not one whose classes only private-school kids can afford: Most bottles are incredibly reasonably priced. Learn about the styles, buy a few — or drop by Mockingbird Hill for a flight — and you'll start getting the picture of what sherry can bring to cocktails. A trace of brine? A tart, citrusy note? A warm, lingering hint of hazelnuts or toast? A deep, figlike, honeyed sweetness? There's a sherry for that. A particular sherry "can bind a drink, lengthen a drink, brighten a drink, deepen and round a drink," says Olson, and all with a lower alcohol content. "And I don't know how anyone could have a bar with sweeteners and not use Pedro Ximénez as one. . . . You don't even need to make a syrup out of it." And in a happy coincidence for two drinks that go back such a long way in the Americas, sherry pairs

beautifully with agave-based spirits. "If you're looking at the aromatic compounds in sherry . . . you can get savory, mineral-forward and herbaceous notes. I mean, I might as well be describing tequila," says Chantal Tseng, an independent consultant and former bar manager at Mockingbird Hill. "You can get those similar green tones in some of the blanco tequilas, and that minerality is there, too, that salty edge." Their long histories and artisanal roots often mean that "people who love tequila and mezcal tend to love sherry with the same kind of evangelism," says Baiocchi. Brown says that has to do with the quest for authenticity that has become central in bartending culture. "We're not mining [the past] for the first orange vodka," he says. "We're mining it for drinks that connect a people and a place and tell us a story about our world." Baiocchi's book includes recipes that show off the interplay between this Old World wine and this New World spirit. They include La Perla, the cocktail that won the first run of the annual Sherry Cocktail Competition, which Olson helped launch in 2005. In it, grassy, herbal notes from the tequila and tart apple tones from the manzanilla sherry are tied together with a rich pear liqueur. But if you're hot, sweaty and have a good view of the star-spangled sky, just remember: Sherry Cobbler is as American-summer classic as it gets, and it pairs beautifully with the smell of fireworks. Sherry Cobbler 1 serving One of the classic early cocktails described in Jerry Thomas's "How to Mix Drinks," the sherry cobbler — full of ice and dolled up with citrus and seasonal berries — is a lovely refresher for hot months. And it's pretty, which makes it good for entertaining. Use a dry sherry, such as a fino, manzanilla or amontillado, and adjust the sugar to your liking. The real challenge for the home bartender is the ice, which should be small and pebbly, like that in a julep. Adapted from "Jerry Thomas' Bartenders Guide: How to Mix Drinks 1862 Reprint," by Jerry Thomas (CreateSpace Independent Publishing, 2008). Ingredients 1 orange wheel, sliced 1/4 inch thick, then cut into 2 half-moons, plus a few more wheels for optional garnish 1/2 to 3/4 tablespoon sugar,

Jul 2nd - 8, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

preferably superfine (may substitute 1/2 ounce of 2:1 simple syrup; see NOTE) Ice, whole cubes and cracked/ pebbles for serving (see headnote) 3 to 4 ounces sherry Fresh mint sprigs, for garnish (optional) Lemon wheels, for garnish (optional; cut as needed) Whole raspberries, blueberries and/or hulled strawberries, for garnish (optional) Steps Muddle the slices of orange with the sugar in a cocktail shaker. Add the ice cubes, then the sherry (the amount depends on the size of your glass). Shake well, and strain into a glass filled with cracked ice. If desired, garnish with mint, halfwheels of citrus, and berries. Serve with a straw. NOTE: To make the 2:1 simple syrup, combine 1 cup of sugar and 1/2 cup of water in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Bring to a slow, rolling boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 5 minutes. Transfer the syrup to a heatproof container and let it cool to room temperature before using. Nutrition | Per serving: 100 calories, 0 g protein, 4 g carbohydrates, 0 g fat, 0 g saturated fat, 0 mg cholesterol, 5 mg sodium, 0 g dietary fiber, 4 g sugar La Perla 1 serving In her James Beard-nominated book "Sherry," Talia Baiocchi highlights this drink by San Francisco bartender Jacques Bezuidenhout as one that called attention to "the incredible compatibility of agave spirits and sherry." Maison Ferrand's Mathilde Poire works well for the pear liqueur. Adapted from "Sherry: A Modern Guide to the Wine World's Best-Kept Secret, With Cocktails and Recipes," by Talia Baiocchi (Ten Speed Press, 2014). Ingredients Ice 1 1/2 ounces reposado tequila 1 1/2 ounces manzanilla sherry 3/4 ounce pear liqueur Lemon peel, for garnish Steps Fill a mixing glass with ice. Add the tequila, sherry and pear liqueur; stirring to mix well. Strain into a coupe glass. Twist the lemon peel over the glass, to express its oils, then drop into the cocktail. Nutrition | Per serving: 230 calories, 0 g protein, 9 g carbohydrates, 0 g fat, 0 g saturated fat, 0 mg cholesterol, 0 mg sodium, 0 g dietary fiber, 9 g sugar

advertorial

MLM company ACN presents in Puerto Vallarta

Jul 2nd - 8, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

By Lourdes Martinez

Fotos: Lourdes MartĂnez

his past weekend a presentation of the international company ACN, attended by the vice president of the company, Larry Raskin, along with the team from Puerto Vallarta, showcased the company and its suite of products for sale. Through a series of testimonies, CAN promoted its organic and vegan products including items that promise to regulate and maintain sugar levels as well as personal care products that prevent hair loss, among other benefits. One of the testimonies from Quilaztli Martinez, who is pregnant. She consulted with her doctors about the vitamins available through ACN and they endorsed their consumption and their nutritional content, helping her baby to develop in a healthy way. It is also an opportunity for her to create a revenue stream while she is off of work. ACN is multi-million dollar company that has been in business for 24 years in 23 countries. This is their first year in Mexico and they plan rapid expansion across Latin America within the next five years. ACN, Inc. is a multi-level marketing (MLM) company that provides telecommunications, television, energy and other services, depending on the country, through a network of independent sales agents known as â&#x20AC;&#x153;Independent Business Ownersâ&#x20AC;? (IBOs), who themselves recruit new people who pay sign up fees and some of that sign up fee goes as bonuses to the IBO recruiting. Bonuses are paid to the IBOs who recruit/sponsor new IBOs only when a certain amount of services are sold or bought within their first month of joining. Based in Concord, North Carolina, USA, ACN began operations in the United States in 1993 as American Communications Network. (source: Wikipedia) Larry Raskin announced that the message is that the products of ACN are impacting the lives of people on important issues such as nutrition, particularly poignant here as Mexico currently holds the international top spot for obesity,

diabetes and malnutrition. As a business opportunity Raskin said, ACN Inc. is not only beneficial for Mexicans, but for everyone, with this company you can create your own financial future. Finally Raskin says that while Mexicans have made some bad decisions regarding their nutrition, now is a good time to take this opportunity to turn those bad decisions into good and benefit Mexico with the nutrition and beauty lines available through ACN. For more information on ACN INC Cristian Barrera xtobarrve@ gmail.com 322 158 6554

paid inclusion

riviera nayarit

Fun on the Riviera Nayarit By Cat Morgan

www.rivieranayaritfun.com

ola a todos! Life around the north end of the Banderas Bay and around the Riviera Nayarit slows way down over the summer months. I thoroughly enjoy the Mexican tradition of taking a siesta during the hottest part of the afternoon. You may notice many stores closed between 3 and 5 or so, and reopening during the evening as it cools down. Although things are slowed way down, there is still music, drinks, and the summer food specials going on are quite nice as well. There are a few 4th of July parties are getting in gear, so get out and have some fun!

Harkness Institute’s Update…. The auction was a terrific success! The auction raised approx. 19,000 pesos! This painting ( Rosie Leon - Junior) went for 1,100 pesos after a heated bidding war! Way to go!! The students and teachers will be going shopping and deliver the foods and goods to the orphanages Manos de Amor and Loving Arms on July 2nd. The kids from the Harkness Institute really love being with the kids from the orphanages. Donations made directly to the Harkness Institute are appreciated to help these kids go to school. EVERY dollar donated goes toward the alleviating the financial responsibility of a student’s family. These families are so grateful for this assistance. All children are welcomed at the Harkness Institute. If you would like to make a donation, and find out what your money goes towards go to: www. gofundme.com/harkness Rancho Los Arenales Horse Shelter serves as a sanctuary for Puerto Vallarta and the Bay of Banderas' abandoned, abused and neglected horses run by Alain and Arturo, who in case you did not know, are the owners of Esquina 22 Bar and Lounge in Bucerias. Their purpose is to

take in abused, neglected and abandoned horses from around the area and the state. Rescued horses will be rehabilitated and turned over to families and existing ranch or to horse’s owners that wish to care for and enjoy the company of another beautiful and healthy animal. The architect has begun to draw up the designs for the new stables. They are offering visitations for anyone who would like to come out and see the ranch and the project. More donations are needed to make this happen. They really need your help. Thanks for anything you can do! You may contact Alain or Arturo at gofundme.com/rancholosarenales . Live Entertainment and fun is still going on around La Cruz and Bucerias. In La Cruz….Pub Britannia is still open for Open Mic Night ever Tuesday. Come say hello to Mandy, and jam with Mike Curlette and “The Turn”. Gecko Rojo in La Cruz has 4 days of fun! Stop on by! Easy to find, left at the only light and down past the round a bout on the left.

In Bucerias, Marks Bar and Grill Summer is here in Bucerias but Mark's is always ready to serve you, as they are open every day with Pancho at the bar and the cooks in the kitchen. They have BIG fans that blow the heat and the breeze from the ocean is always there. Breakers Beach Bar is celebrating the 4th of July! Saturday at 4 pm will be a fun Independence Day Party. Bring your instruments, voice and come and jam! Esquina 22 Bar and Lounge is celebrating their first year anniversary on July 2nd! Alain & Arturo wish to invite you to the 1st year Celebration of Esquina 22 Bar and Lounge in Bucerias! Gosh, it’s already been a year! I am sure they will be having their AC on! :D You can also enjoy the breeze upstairs on the patio. The party starts at 3pm and goes ‘till midnight! Looking for on the beach fun? Nahui Beach Restaurant located at Destiladeras beach just outside of La Cruz is also open every day. Perfect for big parties too! Enjoy lounging on the playa for lunch or dinner, or up in the main restaurant area overlooking the bay. You can find them at http://www.alllacruz. com/business/la-cruz-beach-restaurants-nahui-beach-restaurant. Thanks for viewing and get out and have some “sweaty” summer fun (jaja). If you have any comments or questions, or are looking for a short or long term rental, or energy healing work send me an email at Cat@RivieraNayaritFun.com or Cat@NewEnergyConsciousness.com. Create a super week!

Jul 2nd - 8, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

La Cruz High School Students Training to be Camp Swimming Instructors By Kevin Donnelly kevinfundonnelly@gmail.com

his past weekend six teenagers from Cet-Mar-6 high school in La Cruz took part in an extensive two day beach swimming instructor training course. The program was specifically designed to prepare these young men and women to obtain the skills and knowledge necessary for a very much needed and worthwhile program. That program being to conduct the swimming instructional lessons for the 100 plus elementary school children that will be attending the La Cruz day camp this summer. The course was designed and presented by Kevin Donnelly a former lifeguard, Red Cross water safety instructor (WSI) and Aquatic Coordinator for the City of Newport Beach, California. For these high school students to even qualify to take the two day course required that they first successfully complete a beach run, an ocean distance swim and demonstrate their ability to perform survival floating and treading water for an

extended period of time. Some of the subjects and skills covered in the course were; how to teach the crawl, elementary back stroke and back stroke, beginner swimmer floating, turning and treading water survival techniques, introduction to the breast and side strokes, CPR, what to do when caught in an under toe or rip current and how to rescue someone using a device. The second day each member of the group had an opportunity to become the instructor and teach their fellow students at least two of the skills learned. Those that successfully finished the course received a Certificate of Completion and will now continue to practice their swimming instructor skills until the camp opens on July 20th. The La Cruz summer day camp, called Project 2015, is open to all K to 6th grade La Cruz children. The three week six day a week camp begins on July 20th and goes from 9 to 1:30 pm. For additional information or to register a child for the camp contact the Camp Director, Edger Duran Duran at, 322 131 6089 or his e-mail: duranedger7710@gmail.com.

méxico

Nayarit Top in Certified Clean Beaches

The Scourge in Vallarta by Janice Gonzalez SPCA de PV www.spcapv.com

A T

he Marina Riviera Nayarit is Mexico’s first Blue Flag Marina; Nuevo Vallarta Norte is one of 19 Blue Flag beaches in the country; the Riviera Nayarit has 10 out of 33 Certified Clean Beaches in the Mexican Republic. Nayarit confirmed its leadership in Certified Clean Beaches during the XI National Clean Beaches Conference in Cancun. Nuevo Vallarta Norte also received its Blue Flag during this event, however, La Cruz de Huanacaxtle’s Marina Riviera Nayarit took the spotlight for its own achievement, as it is the first of its kind in Mexico to receive this recognition. “We’re very happy and proud to be able to continue to share positive news about tourism and the environment,” commented Marc Murphy, Managing Director of the Riviera Nayarit Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB). “I believe that we’ve proven that we can reach important milestones together with the authorities from the

coastal towns and the State Government and we will continue to do so in the future.” Four of the Riviera Nayarit’s beaches were re-certified under Regulation NMX-AA120-SCFI-2006: Bucerías, Nuevo Vallarta Sur and Norte in Banderas Bay and Chacala in Compostela. This certification is good for two years, meaning the beaches of Nuevo Vallarta II, Los Muertos in Sayulita, Playa Palladium in Punta de Mita, Costa Capomo and Platanitos in Compostela and El Borrego in San Blas are still certified for another year. They will be audited as a follow-up measure from July 15-21. The Marina Riviera Nayarit, having received one more distinction in addition to being the biggest and most modern of its kind on the Pacific, is now the environmental model to follow in Mexico. The Blue Flags come into effect beginning July 1, 2015; this accolade was also awarded to a seaside resort area.

s a rescue organization, our mission is to find forever homes for as many dogs as we can and welcome similar efforts by others. Unfortunately, sometimes the best intentions can lead to disastrous outcomes. We feel it important to educate dog owners and rescuers alike about a potentially deadly disease called ehrlichiosis (or ehrlichia), a disease not familiar to everyone. Based on available information and our own experience, over 80% of street or homeless dogs have contracted ehrlichia here in Puerto Vallarta which is transmitted through the bite of the brown tick. Maybe you or someone you know has reached out and rescued one of our many unfortunate canines. Being conscientious you more than likely took the poor animal to the vet to be treated for parasites. The vet should also test for moquillo (Canine distemper) or parvo (Canine parvovirus, a highly contagious viral disease). Unfortunately dogs are not regularly tested for the presence of ehrlichia. Please beware! Ehrlichia is insidious and, unfortunately, it is not always apparent that a dog has been infected. As a result, some dogs are living with an internal time bomb. Undiagnosed and

Jul 2nd - 8, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

untreated, this disease can ultimately kill your companion animal as internal organs shut down accompanied with internal hemorrhaging. The good news is that when/if the disease is treated, there is a high probability the dog will recover without any further health issues. The key here is early detection and treatment. This is a cautionary tale warning everyone to also have the vet administer a SNAP test to screen for heartworm disease, Lyme disease, and ehrlichiosis. (Note: SNAP tests are a group of quick, convenient, blood tests that can be performed at your veterinarian’s office.) Finally, because clinical signs are not always apparent, periodic testing is a good way to identify dogs that have been infected. Even dogs that receive year-round tick control products and don’t spend a lot of time outside are at risk for exposure to tick-borne diseases. Testing helps identify dogs that need treatment. Since dogs can be re-infected, ALL canines should be tested on a regular basis. Read on for more information about this menace in our midst. Ehrlichiosis There are three phases of illness with ehrlichiosis: acute, subclinical, and chronic. ACUTE PHASE: This is generally a mild phase and occurs 1 to 3 weeks after the host is bitten by the tick. The dog may have some or all of the following symptoms or may exhibit no noticeable symp-

toms. The dog may be listless, off food, and may have enlarged lymph nodes. There may be fever as well but rarely does this phase kill a dog. Most dogs clear the organism if they are treated in this stage but those that do not receive adequate treatment will go on to the next phase. SUBCLINICAL PHASE: In this phase, the dog appears normal. The organism has sequestered in the spleen and is essentially hiding out there. During this phase you may be able to feel the enlarged spleen. Dogs can stay in this phase for months or even years. CHRONIC PHASE: In this phase the dog gets sick again. Up to 60% of dogs infected will have abnormal bleeding. There may be deep inflammation in the eyes. Neurologic effects may also be seen as well as urinary problems. It can also lead to arthritis. Untreated it can lead to death. Treatment Doxycycline, an antibiotic effective in the treatment against ehrlichia, has a convenient dosing schedule. Expect at least a month of treatment to be needed. Response is initially rapid (improvement is notable in the first few days). Based on the progression of the disease additional treatment with corticosteroids may also be used to palliate the situation while the antibiotics are starting to work. After infection, it is possible to become re-infected; immunity is not lasting after a previous infection. Summary Dogs get ehrlichiosis from the brown dog tick, which passes an ehrlichia organism into the bloodstream when it bites. There are three stages of ehrlichiosis, each varying in severity. The best way to prevent infection is to check your dog daily for the presence of ticks. Infection is unlikely to occur within the first 24-48 hours of exposure. You can easily remove newly attached ticks from your canine. If the tick has become blood engorged, please take him to the vet for professional tick removal as well as testing for the presence of ehrlichia. It is strongly encouraged that SNAP tests be given to all rescues and periodically given to all dogs in order that proactive treatment for the infection can begin immediately. The earlier the detection, the more successful the chance of recovery. Credits: Some of the information contained herein was taken from articles published by the Veterinary Information Network.

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.

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charities

Jul 2nd - 8, 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