Issue 954, July 16 - 22, 2015 by Vallarta Tribune

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News JALA - VALLARTA HWY

Jul 16 - 22, 2015 Free Issue 954

Travel BEST MEXICO ISLANDS

Riviera Nayarit JOSLIN CARSON

Courtesy rivieranayarit.com.mx

LAS MARIETAS

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 16 - 22, 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 PEACEAnimal 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 ANGELICAT AyudaMutt Centro de Acopio Animal Cuidando sus Huelitos

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

Jul 16 - 22, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Editor’s

Note

editor@vallartatribune.com

exico barely registered on my radar these past few weeks as I was up in Canada for some family time. I just got back and immediately rolled into a huge storm. My neglected garden was relieved to get the deluge but the garbage canoeing down the street towards the ocean was a disappointment. I’m here now for a quick week and then off on another road trip. For those of us who live here year round, the summer is enjoyable because it’s a bit quieter and we can take the time to paint our peeling bathroom walls and trim the creeping vines back but the constant humidity can drive anyone crazy. Last year I said I was moving to Mexico City for a month in the summer. Not just to get away but to explore that pirates booty of hidden corners and historical gems. Its not to be this year but in its place I am taking a road trip to parts unexplored by me personally. Watch out San Luis Potosi, Queretero and Guanajuato – here we come! The plan is to do a very quick seven-day tour that encompasses the highlights of those three states. I have left little time for sleep, which is fine because you need to be at the Cave of Swallows at sunrise to really experience its power. (Cave of Swallows is the largest shaft cave and the 11th deepest in the world – no, I will not be base jumping.) I have a facebook group called Life and Travel in Mexico that I invite you to join to

follow along on my adventures. I will be visiting the Pueblo Magico of Lagos de Moreno, the colonial city of San Luis Potosi, the natural glory of Ocho Cascadas (8 waterfalls), the Rioverde, the town of Santa Maria del Oro where the Robozo is traditionally made, Xilitla and the Daliesque gardens of surrealist Edward James, Tolantongo which is a hot river system with caves and pools that is out of this world, San Bernal which is home to the third highest monolith in the world, San Miguel and Guanajato which need no descriptions to entice you. This circuitous journey will total 2,167 kms over 6 nights with about 300kms a day driving. Hmmmm that seems ambitious. This week we have the Turtle Festival in Playa Platinos which is heading towards San Blas, Nayarit along the ocean. I won’t make it to this event though I have been a couple times to Playa Platinos and it’s a beautiful little beach with excellent seafood, and a gorgeous drive through the jungle lowlands of Nayarit. If you’re looking for a weekend trip, I highly recommend this area but please pack long pants and as much of the most toxic bug spray as you can. The noseeums will eat you alive. Since I’m staying close to home, the plan is to check out the much buzzed about Jazz Foundation recently opened on the malecon. Safe travels, Madeline

SPCA of Puerto Vallarta

Janice Gonzalez

ome and spend a rewarding afternoon cuddling the animals at Puerto Vallarta’s SPCA Sanctuary. Our dogs and cats are awaiting “forever homes” and your help is needed to jump start their socialization. The goal is to get these animals adjusted and ready to interact in the real world. The majority of the SPCA animals either come from extremely abusive situations or they have been abandoned. Your love and attention can make up for that sad history. During your visit, you can interact with the animals and even take a dog (or two or three) for a walk. You can also play with the animals, assist the vet or help with dinner time. Are you ready to get involved? Pack your bag for an amazing afternoon at the SPCA! Please bring water, a sack lunch and any treats you might enjoy during your visit. Sharing food with the animals is prohibited. We encourage you to bring your camera. Take as many photos as you like, and share them with us and your social media community. Your photos and videos can help these dogs and cats find their forever homes with people who will treat them with the love and care they deserve. 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/. If you would like to make a donation other than money to the SPCA, here is a list of items we can ALWAYS use: Kong’s or very hard rubber chew toys (we cannot use soft plastic toys anymore due to ingestion worries); Chuck it balls ... hard rubber; stuffed toys for puppies; BLUE BAG Costco dog food salmon – ONLY; all natural dog treats; towels, blankets, Lysol, powdered laundry detergent; office supplies such as paper, pens, clip boards, scissors, plastic cups for water for our staff and volunteers. You can drop off any donations for the SPCA at Hacienda San Angel located at Calle Miramar 336, above Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in El Centro. 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.

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Jul 16 - 22, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Researchers confirm: The Largest pyramid in Mexico has been found By Aingi Oranais

esearchers discover immense pyramid in Mexico, larger than Teotihuacan’s Pyramid of the Sun. Researchers in Mexico have discovered a Pyramid that, according to initial measurements, is larger than the Great Pyramid of the Sun in Teotihuacan. Initial excavations were done in 2010. The Pyramid, 75 meters in height, was explored by specialists from the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) on the acropolis of Tonina, Chiapas, estimated to be around 1700 years old. Emiliano Gallaga, director of the archaeological zone, explained that work has been done in the last two years, and by means of a “three-dimensional, researchers verified that in the northeastern

part of the site, stands one of the largest construction in Mesoamerica, comparable in size only to great Mayan cities like Tikal and El Mirador in Guatemala. Another features which makes this “unique” pre-hispanic structure stand out are the seven platforms which integrate it and were specific spaces intended to serve as palaces, temples, housing and administrative units. It is a unique structure for various specific functions within the social, political, economic and religious structure, which is not repeated in any other archaeological site of the Mayan world stated researchers from INAH. It’s a big surprise to see that the pyramid was done almost entirely by pre-Hispanic architects and therefore is more artificial than natural. “This is because it was believed

that the entire structure was a natural hill, but recent evidence has revealed that the structure was almost entirely built by ancient inhabitants. Archaeologists added that the pyramid is bigger than we had anticipated. The structure is connected by roads located on top of surrounding elevations. Gallaga added that, after all of the information, we can confirm that this pyramid exceeds in height the pyramid of the Sun at Teotihuacan which measures 65 meters. INAH researchers have determined that the city center had an architectural continuity between 10 and 12 hectares, which is the double of what was previously thought and mainly corresponds to the south facade of the Acropolis, one of the most important Mayan areas known to researchers. Original: zonnews.com

62 Mexican firefighters join wildfire fight in northern Alberta

irefighting season ends in Mexico freeing up brigadistas Five dozen firefighters from Mexico are in Edmonton Thursday getting ready to help fight wildfires in northern Alberta. The 62 brigadistas will join the 1,700 firefighters currently working in the province. 62 Mexican firefighters arrived at the Edmonton International Airport Wednesday night to fight wildfires in northern Alberta. (CBC) Firefighter Hector Trejo says the firefighting in the state of Jalisco season ended a week ago, about the time they received the request to come to Alberta. "For most of the guys it's their

passion to fight fires, get to know the forest, and what a better way to do it than in another country and helping others," he said. One of the biggest adjustments for his crew will be using more water than they traditionally use against the flames, Trejo said. The firefighters from the Mexican state of Jalisco will help battle more than 90 wildfires in northern Alberta. (CBC) "Our resources are limited," he said. "We don't have as much manpower or equipment. There's more water in the forest up here than Mexico so that's a bit of a challenge for us down there and then a challenge up here using

water pumps and stuff." He said firefighters from Alberta and Mexico have had a partnership for the past 10 years. Alberta wildfire information officer Geoffrey Driscoll said the province is grateful for the help. "Every little bit helps and we're certainly happy that our partners in Jalisco were able to give us firefighters," he said. "They've got a big job ahead of them joining the other 1,700 firefighters who are here. So they're going to get to work and they're going to get these fires contained as quickly as possible." There are currently more than 90 fires burning in the province. www.cbc.ca

Adorable Dog In the Spotlight... CHULA

ould you take a look at this girl…what a cutie! Just growing out of her puppy stage, Chula is about a year old, a Labrador X Shepherd mix weighing 30 pounds. As one might image, Chula is full of energy and very playful. When not playing she is very loving and just wants to cuddle. Chula gets along with everyone, dogs and even cats. She has been dewormed, spayed and current on all vaccines. Ready to take Chula home? Contact us for an application as spcapv@gmail.com.

news

T-Mobile ‘Mobile without Borders’: Extends Coverage & Calling Across North America at No Extra Charge

-Mobile [NYSE: TMUS] has unveiled the latest in its Un-carrier Amped announcements—and this one’s going to make history. The company announced a massive expansion of its Simple Choice™, extending coverage and calling across the U.S., Mexico & Canada for all Simple Choice customers at no extra charge. Called ‘Mobile without Borders,’ this move delivers calling to both land lines and mobile phones − as well as 4G LTE data straight from your plan − across all three countries at no additional cost. The move eliminates a major pain point for U.S. wireless customers. Last year, a full 35% of all international calls and 55% of all international travel from the U.S. was to Mexico & Canada alone. Over 70% of international trips taken by small and mid-sized business travelers were to Mexico & Canada. And, the same year, the carriers raked in nearly $10 billion in global roaming charges at over 90% margins. Meaning the carriers are lining their pockets

with billions of dollars in inflated roaming fees—for coverage the Un-carrier now includes at no extra cost. As with Simple Global, Mobile without Borders takes direct aim at the carrier practice of jacking up the cost and complexity for customers the moment you set foot over a border. The pain is real. AT&T and Verizon’s data rates jump an insane 120x or more when you leave the U.S. For example: • Last year, US wireless customers’ long-distance calls to Mexico & Canada totaled approximately 25 billion minutes. • Assuming even half those minutes were mobile-to-mobile, the total pay-per-use cost could be as much as $7.5 billion. And, even if every customer paid for additional international long-distance (ILD) packages, the cost could still total up to $130 million. Beginning July 15th, calls to, from and between the U.S., Mexico & Canada − whether mobile or landline − are included in the latest plans at no extra

Jul 16 - 22, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

New Jalisco video wows Original: geo-mexico.com

T charge. And, when you’re in Mexico & Canada, you’ll use 4G LTE data straight from your Simple Choice 4G LTE data plan. Everyone’s eligible, including Simple Choice postpaid and prepaid customers. Starting next Wednesday, every new Simple Choice customer will automatically get Mexico & Canada included in their plan at no extra charge. Current Simple Choice customers can simply opt-in online, by phone, or in-store by switching to our latest plans for free. Business customers can also add coverage and calling across North America to their Simple Choice plan. www.t-mobile.com

he Jalisco state government has released an informative 5-minute video highlighting some of the reasons why Jalisco is one of the best locations in Mexico for farming, business and tourism. Following opening shots showing some of the diverse landscapes of the state, including the Piedrotas at Tapalpa, the majestic Volcán de Colima (whose summit is actually in Jalisco, not Colima) and the Horseshoe Falls near the Dr. Atl park on the northern edge of Guadalajara, the video’s subtitles (in English) turn to techno0logy and innovation. Jalisco is the first state in Mexico to have a Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology. The state capitol Guadalajara is the center for MIND (Mexican Innovation and Design Center) and was chosen by MIT for the establishment of a Creative Digital City. The city also has major cultural and sporting attractions, from libraries to golf courses to hosting international events in the Expo Guadalajara to concerts and its own international film festival. It

also hosts the world’s second largest book fair (after Hamburg). Its industrial activity ranges from agro-processing (including tequila) to pharmaceuticals, information technology, automotive and aerospace firms to renewable energy enterprises. Foreign investment in Jalisco has risen by an average of 17% a year for the past decade, with foreign firms finding the state’s geographic position advantageous for serving central Mexico and with excellent trade links to Asia and the U.S. The state’s leading coastal resort is Puerto Vallarta, but tourism is also important in the state’s interior. Jalisco has five places with Magic Town status: Lagos de Moreno, San Sebastian del Oeste, Tapalpa, Mazamitla and Tequila. Jalisco currently accounts for 6.6% of national GDP and the state government clearly expects this contribution to grow in coming years. This professionally-produced video is an excellent visual introduction to one of Mexico’s most important states. https://youtu.be/s-1tIf0YWsE

Jala to Vallarta Highway will be ready in 18 months Translated by Madeline Milne Originally published in Tribuna de la Bahia

Banderas Bay, Nay.- According to the general director of the Center SCT Nayarit, it is estimated that within the next 18 months two of the three sections that make up the Jala-Puerto Vallarta road, will be completed by mid-2016. Leave pending the last part between Las Varas and Puerto Vallarta. At the invitation of the Coordinator of Puerto Vallarta and Banderas Bay (CCPVBB) Council, the federal official announced the status of the road, where there are three sections to be constructed Jala-Compostela, Compostela to Las Varas and Las Varas to Puerto Vallarta.

Miramontes Jesus Lara, CEO of SCT Center announced that the Jala-PV road would be running in two of the three stage program in approximately 18 months, which come to Costa Capomo

Lourdes Martinez

By Lourdes Martinez

The first section from Jala to Compostela, he said, will be completed in October this year. They are now finishing and are only 4 km away from the federal

Highway 200, at the entrance of La Peñita in Jaltamba Bay, and is just missing the junction for Costa Capomo exit. He explained that the last 19

kilometers of Compostela to Las Varas are in the bidding process, which is expected to conclude in August. They would begin construction immediately, since they have

the economic resources required and construction is expected to take approximately 18 months. He explained that many technical issues arose concerning environmental issues, because they are building tunnels and viaducts that reach up to 300 meters in length and a height of 40 and 65 meters through the mountainous sierra. The third section from Las Varas to Puerto Vallarta will be open to tender shortly but 91% of it is already prepared and it is expected that once the contractor is approved, construction will begin immediately. At this point the third section will likely need a new (fourth) bridge, as it is not expected to connect to the Ameca River Federal Highway 200 bridges that current separate Nayarit from Jalisco.

Mexico’s Cholula-Puebla Tourist Train Gets the Green Light

exican Communications and Transportation Secretary Gerardo Ruiz Esparza and Puebla Gov. Rafael Moreno Valle have signed the agreement granting the right to provide public

transportation services to the Cholula-Puebla tourist train. The document opens the way for work to start on the line and for bidding on the project to take place. The agreement gives the

railway the right to provide service for 30 years, using 80-passenger diesel-electric engines that will pull the train at an average speed of 35 kph (about 22 mph), the secretariat said in a statement. Two

stations will be built and the train is expected to make 11 runs a day, with reduced service on Fridays. The project “will benefit domestic and foreign tourism, creating a new tourist attraction,

as well as becoming a magnet for investment, thus helping position Puebla state as a destination with innovative, strategic projects,” the Communications and Transportation Secretariat said.

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Jul 16 - 22, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Mexico’s Colima Volcano Cornfields, Silent Residents Surround Mexican Drug Eruption Triggers 340 Evacuations Lord’s Escape Site

he eruption of the Colima volcano has led to the evacuation of 340 people and the declaration of emergency in five municipalities of the western Mexican state of Colima, large parts of which are covered with ash. The volcano has continued to spew incandescent material leading to a restriction on movement in a 12-km (7.5-mile) radius around the base of the volcano and the preventive evacuation of some 500 people from the communities of La Yerbabuena, La Becerrera and others. Some 170 people have been placed in a shelter made by Colima’s government in a school in Comala and monitored by state and municipal police, two medical units and two multi-utility vans provided by the state health secretary. Preventive evacuations have also been carried out in the communities of Juan Barragan, Los Machos, Caucentla, Cofradia and El Agostadero in the Tonila municipality. Some 170 people from the above mentioned communities have been put in a shelter in San Marcos that also holds evacuees from the municipality of Zapotitlan de Vadillo. Volcanic ash has reached the municipality of Autlan de Navarro in the state of Jalisco, some 220 km (137 miles) from the volcano, Jalisco state Civil Protection autho-

rities said on Twitter. Poor visibility on account of the ash has forced authorities to close the highway between Colima and San Jose del Carmen in Jalisco, Colima’s government said. Meanwhile, Mexico’s Civil Protection of the Ministry of Interior Sunday issued an emergency in the municipalities of Colima, Comala, Coquimatlan, Cuauhtemoc and Villa de Alvarez in the state of Colima thus making available resources from the Emergency Fund to attend to the basic food, shelter and medical needs of the people affected. Experts say the recent volcanic activity, reaching heights of up to 7 km (4 miles), is the largest explosion by the volcano in the last century. Meanwhile, Colima’s national airport operations remain suspended due to the ash falling in the area. Colima, which rises to a height of 3,820 meters (12,525 feet) above sea level, is one of Mexico’s most active volcanoes along with Popocatepetl, which straddles the central states of Mexico, Puebla and Morelos.

he house selected for construction of the 1.5-kilometer (nearly one-mile) tunnel used by drug lord Joaquin “El Chapo” (Shorty) Guzman to escape from central Mexico’s Altiplano I federal prison is in an ideal location, surrounded by cornfields and muddy lots. The partially constructed house is on a nearly direct line of sight from the prison in Almoloya de Juarez, a city located about 25 kilometers (15 miles) from Toluca, the capital of Mexico state, and some 90 kilometers (55 miles) from Mexico City. The Sinaloa cartel boss used the tunnel, which was equipped with a ladder, a ventilation system made with PVC pipes, lights and a motorcycle mounted on rails that was apparently used to haul out the dirt, to get out of the prison on Saturday night. Guards found construction equipment, oxygen tanks and fuel tanks in the tunnel, National Security Commissioner Monte Alejandro Rubido told reporters on Sunday. An EFE reporter got a look at the property, whose brick walls and roof-top water tank helped conceal the intense work that likely went into building the tunnel. The cornfields around the house made it easy for workers to dispose of the dirt that was dug up. Area residents stayed away from the property, which was cordoned off by the security forces.

The Altiplano I federal prison, located on the highest point of a nearby hill, dominates the view. Officials set up checkpoints and took down cell phone service in the area on Sunday. Residents observed the activity from the windows of their houses, with some people stepping outside for a closer look and everyone keeping quiet, all of them used to living near a prison. A woman named Noemi agreed to speak with EFE on the condition that her comments not be recorded, telling a reporter that police told her family to stay inside during the night because there might be gunfire. Her taxi-driver husband, however, decided to go to work anyway. Guzman was serving the last three years of a sentence for a prior conviction at Altiplano I and prosecutors planned to try him on additional charges linked to his criminal activities. The drug lord, who was born in

1957, got his start in the drug business as a lieutenant of Miguel Angel Felix-Gallardo, the top leader of the Guadalajara cartel, in the 1980s. He was a pioneer in transporting cocaine and marijuana from Colombia to the United States in large aircraft, which later returned loaded with millions of dollars in small bills. Felix-Gallardo’s arrest and prosecution in 1989 led to the Guadalajara cartel being divided up and Guzman relocating to Culiacan, the capital of Sinaloa state, and founding the Sinaloa cartel. Guzman was eventually captured in 1993 in Guatemala and sent back to Mexico, where he was convicted on bribery charges. On Jan. 19, 2001, with just seven months remaining on his sentence, Guzman escaped from the Puente Grande penitentiary in the western state of Jalisco, pulling off the Hollywood-style jailbreak by hiding in a cart full of dirty laundry in front of guards.

Joan Sebastian dies: 'El rey del jaripeo' dead at 64, loses battle with cancer

oan Sebastian has died at the age of 64, losing his battle with cancer in the bones. He passed away in his ranch located in Juliantla, Guerrero, Mexico at 7:15pm (local time). Weeks ago it had been confirmed that the singer had been hospitalized and undergoing cancer treatment under medical supervision. Julián Figueroa, son of "El Rey Del Jaripeo" and Maribel Guardia, confirmed the news at the time to morning show "Hoy." Figueroa confessed that when he was previously asked about his father's condition he had to deny the rumors as he was not authorized to talk about it and is now confirming that his father is not in critical condition. "My father is not in the middle of a horrible crisis," he said. "We are going to inform the public so they are aware and so they won't worry about my father. What is happening

is that he's under a new treatment that they are testing on my father. They are doing it at the hospital so they can see the results. My father is stable, obviously with the implications of having cancer, but he isn't in greater danger." In early 2014, Joan Sebastian revealed that he was battling cancer for the fourth time during his performances in Zacatecas. The 64-year-old singer told morning show "Hoy" that he had undergone chemotherapy prior to his presentations and still went through with the show. "We booked these dates two months ago, I didn't know that I would need chemotherapy again," he said at the time. "I am very conscious that this is something I have to deal with and I have fortunately been able to pull through." The "King Of Jaripeo" had difficulties going up the stairs and remained seated during his number, which

he acknowledged to reporters saying, "I felt weak on stage." Although the "Secreto de Amor" singer lost his battle to cancer he was always hopeful and had no plans on leaving the limelight. "The love and claps from the audience is what keeps me going, I will not be retiring," he said. "I am very aware of the chemotherapy experience." In 1999 Joan Sebastian was diagnosed with cancer in the bones and it came back in 2007 and 2012. In February 2014 the "Lobo Domesticado" singer said he was retiring from the "jaripeos" shows that has him singing in a rodeo atop a horse. "I am not retiring, I am saying goodbye to the rodeos only. I am 62 years old and I am satisfied with what I have accomplished, but I know I am not getting younger," he told reporters in his Las Palmas ranch. "I want to retire on a high, I'm retiring from

horses because I cannot mount anymore. There are various indicators and some members of my family suffer too much, it's the moment."

His voice can still be heard nightly on Univision during the opening credits of "Amores Con Trampa" with the song "Trampa." http://www.latintimes.com/

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and Parenting Leza Warkentin

mommyinmexico.wordpress.com

The Three Gates

hen you parent siblings who are close in age, you might find yourself saying the most extraordinary things, like: “No, family members can’t go and live somewhere far away.” “Your sister is not a sketch pad.” “Stop rhyming your brother’s name with insulting things.” “Nobody is allowed to touch anybody ever again.” “Nobody is allowed to pretend to touch anybody ever again.” I’m always looking for some magical to tell them, something wise that they will tell their own children with the preface, “Like my mother always used to say, (something sage and profound).” I’m hoping it’s something that will cause them to forget the times I said “Your face is going to get stuck that way “or “Five second rule! You can totally eat that!” The other day they were playing some kind of put down game, trying to really burn each other with extreme insults (keeping in mind that the worst they are allowed to say is somewhere north of “stupid”). It was pretty tame, and they were enjoying themselves. But then they got into a “mom war” and that’s where I put my foot down. I mean, I was sitting RIGHT THERE, for the love of Mike. I carried these people inside a body that has never been the same since. Yo’ mama INDEED. Indignant, I dredged up a quote I had heard awhile ago. It talks about how, before we speak, we should pass our words through three gates, which are basically three questions we need to ask ourselves. The first gate asks, is it true? The second, is it necessary? And the third, is it kind? “Yo’ mama is so little, she needs a ladder to climb to the toilet” did not even get a toe through the first gate (Little?). I rested my case, secure in the knowledge that if they wanted to discuss their momma, it would be with a bit more respect

and a bit less concentration on my physical shortcomings. In recent days, we have all had a lot of reason to throw our two cents into the ring of popular opinion. There have been Supreme Court decisions. There have been mass shootings. There have been all sorts of news on a global scale, good and bad. So often we sit behind a screen and type our thoughts to thousands of readers who we will probably never meet. And we may not even wait to spell check before we press “comment”, never mind to make a stop at the three gates. True? I’m guessing we are speaking our own truth, but probably not everyone’s. Necessary? I know. I KNOW. What will happen if the whole entire internets never hear your views on gun control? Kind? Ah yes, and there we have it. Many people are of the belief that somehow to speak the necessary truth cannot be kind. But I don’t agree. I think necessary truths can be such a kindness; we just forget what is really true and really necessary. A lot. After our little talk, our family was at the grocery store. We were in a hurry. The cashier was not. She was also very busy in a conversation with another cashier, and was not interested in any kind of chit chat like “We also have grapes on sale today!” or “Your total is 350 pesos, please” or “Hi”. I could feel something bubbling up in me, and it was something very true. But my kids were standing beside me, the recipients of my sage and profound advice not an hour earlier. I suddenly realized that without any idea of what life she was living, I had nothing necessary to tell her. But I could be kind. So I caught her eye, smiled, and thanked her. She stopped for a moment, acknowledged me, and smiled back, a little sheepish. There’s nothing more true and necessary these days than kindness. Let’s spread some around today.

Jul 16 - 22, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Wellness

Latina

By Marcella Castellanos info@wellnesslatina.com Marcella Castellanos is a bilingual Certified Holistic Health Coach who is passionate about dancing through life, sustainability, animal welfare, and eating avocados. Her mission is to empower you to look and feel your best so that you can do more of what you love. She offers health & wellness workshops and programs by incorporating whole, natural, plant-strong foods, movement, and natural solutions with essential oils. For her blog or a list of her upcoming programs and workshops, and for your free natural healthcare e-book visit www.wellnesslatina.com.

Five ways to self-nurture without spending a dime

elf-care is something we often put on the backburner as we get caught up with sticking to a schedule, taking the kids to school, work demands, paying the bills - in short, taking care of everyone else. Unfortunately, we often forget that by taking care of ourselves we are filling up our own gas tanks, so that we can continue to do what we love and what life asks of us with renewed vitality. Here are five ways to take care of YOU: 1) Put the L.O.V.E . back: Into your self- talk that is. Enough of the "I'm not good enough," or the "I don't deserve this," crap. Yes you are and you do! Whether it's from negative childhood experiences, past traumas or societal messages that constantly bombard us with messages that we just don't measure up until we are a certain way or buy XY and Z product, you can reframe and reboot that old computer system. Start by writing five daily affirmations, such as I'm a good listener, or I'm a thoughtful wife, whatever it is, there is plenty that you are good at and much that you deserve. 2) Get out! (preferably in nature): Get out of your usual

routine and get some fresh air. Make it a date with yourself. Family life sometimes keeps us in the house doing chores, work keeps us in the office in front of equipment and then we go off to run errands and/or into another building for groceries and items needed. All of this 'indoor' activity disconnects us from nature, source, or God, however, you want to call that universal life force that unites us all. Go to the park, the beach, in your backyard. Do some gardening... walk barefoot on the grass ... whenever you connect with nature, you connect with yourself. You ARE nature. WE are nature. 3) Breathe. Inhale, exhale. Contract, let go. Our breathe is our life force. Oftentimes, we hold it unconsciously and don't let what the Chinese call 'chi' to flow through us - in yoga language it's called 'prana'- that life giving, vital energy that unites body, mind and spirit. When we are more aware of breath, we flow through our daily lives a bit better and we are even able to 'blow out,' negative thou-

ghts that may arise as we notice them (works for me, anyway). There are many breathing techniques available and the best way to start is to simply notice it and take time out to relax with it. Find your own breathing rhythm. 4) Dance. In its purest expression is emotion personified. It can be your outlet to get something off your chest. It can be your creativity. For me, it's also meditation in motion, liberation. This is something you can do yourself in your own home or room, really anywhere, and allow yourself to connect with the music, the space and what your body can do. Be wild. Celebrate that you have life and a body as a vehicle to live it. Dance doesn't have to be about being seen or competing. Dance for yourself. Dance because you can and your want to get to know yourself better. 5) Do nothing and anything. Take a day or two of the week to do anything you want or nothing at all. And if you must do something, make it fun! Enough said.

Vallarta Shopping Directory and events

www.puertovallartadining-shopping.com

s the most complete and up to date directory on the internet with 20 different categories of the best businesses in Vallarta. You will find all the major restaurants, boutiques and clothing, art galleries, beauty shops and spas, jewelry stores, handicrafts, tattoos, huichol art, real estate companies, boutique hotels, leather goods, interior decor and more Each listing has photos of their locations and products, information about them, contact information and links to their websites or facebook. The directory is a great tool to keep on your desktop for quick refe-

3rd Sea Turtle Festival In Playa Platanitos

he general public is invited to the 3rd Sea Turtle Festival in Playa Platanitos on July 18-19, 2015, which has been generating interest with its slogan “Ecología + Diversión = Únete a la Protección” (Ecology + Fun = Join in the Conservation!) The Playa Platanitos Ecológico group is organizing the event with support from the Government of the State of Nayarit and other sponsors. There will be plenty of entertainment for young and old including cultural and artistic activities; there will also be information stations available to raise awareness about the importance of this endangered species. The goal is to enjoy a couple of days of family fun while spreading important information about this endangered species that is key to the health of the Riviera Nayarit’s beaches. The inauguration is on July 18th at 10:30 in the morning, followed by a series of musical presentations including the Mariachi Tradicional Cora, Batucada Ahualulco, folkloric singer Rigo Rivera and the Ballet Santa Cruz. The contests will soon follow, starting with a runway walk for the Festival Queen contestants followed by dancing and singing to give the judges time to pick the lucky winner. At nightfall there will be a dance for all attendees. On Sunday the 19th the nature trails open up at 10 a.m. with information stations through Cerro Punta Custodio, complete with guides who will talk about the conservation and protection of the sea turtle. At the end of the walks there will be activities that include a Paddleboard exhibition, a recycled-materials kite flying contest, a swimming contest, a mechanical bull and a presentation by a group of local children. An intervention by a group of ecologists is scheduled for the afternoon; they will interact with the public to raise awareness about the sea turtle. Once they’re done, the stage is set for concerts and the closing ceremony, followed by dancing on the beach.

rence to make reservations to restaurants and to easily find phone numbers and open hours. If your business is not listed please email puertovallartashoppingguide@gmail.com for more information. Also members of the directory can obtain very reasonable weekly ads on this color page. The Vallarta Tribune is in print year around and also is distributed in Nayarit. www.puertovallartadining-shopping.com

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

travel

Jul 16 - 22, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

The 6 best Mexican Islands that aren't Cozumel By Meagan Drillinger

here's a decent chance if you went to college, you ventured to Mexico for Spring Break and made enough bad decisions to fill up a carry-on bag. That's what a place like Cozumel is for, after all. It's like an oasis of irresponsibility. But believe it or not, there's more to Mexico than Señor Frogs and wet T-shirt contests. There's also guacamole. Oh, and quite a few under-the-radar islands. So if you take your chips and guac with a side of laid-back island living, here are six of Mexico’s best islands that aren't Cozumel.

Isla Mujeres

If the islands near Cancun were siblings, Cozumel would be Owen Wilson, but Isla Mujeres would totally be Luke. Sure, Wedding Crashers and Cars are huge hits. But don't sleep on the lasting quality of Old School. Also, Cozumel would have a weird nose. This island escape off the coast of Cancun’s party beaches is a quick ferry ride out into the Caribbean Sea. Highlights include fresh seafood, laid-back beach bars, Garrafon Natural Reef Park, and the gorgeous Caribbean sun and sand, minus the thumping bass and strobe lights. You can make Isla Mujeres a day trip, of course, but consider making it the main event and staying in one of the many chill beach resorts (Casa de los Sueños FTW). As if these aren't reasons enough, the island’s name literally translates to Island of Women, because apparently "Hot Babe Island" was already taken. Just GO.

Isla Holbox

If sugary sand and ocean that’s all kinds of blue bring you great joy, this is the island for you. But you'd better reeeeeeally enjoy that stuff, because there’s not a whole lot else going on in Isla Holbox. (Translation: Bring someone who looks cute in a bathing suit to be the Little Spoon.) This tiny island, also off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula in the Caribbean Sea, is far less touristy than Isla Mujeres and mostly car-free. Locals get around by bike or on golf carts. Boutique hotels also reign here, and you’ll want to check out Hotel Mawimbi. Whale sharks are the main draw for tourists here, and from June to September, if you’re tired of all the spooning in a hammock by the

sea, you can spoon these gentle giants. You know, in the water.

barbecue on the beach. BYOM (bring your own meat).

Isla Contoy

Islas Marietas

If Isla Holbox seems low-key, well, Isla Contoy is like a night in with a bottle of red wine. The entire island is just 1.2sqmi, and has been declared a national park. It’s so small it actually has a maximum capacity -- only 200 tourists are allowed on the island per day. If you like bars with velvet ropes, you’ll love a beachy paradise with a guest list. A day trip from Cancun or Isla Mujeres, Contoy is about a two-hour boat ride, and along the way, visitors can snorkel in the Ixlache Reef. When you get there, you have your pick of empty beaches and top spots for snorkeling. Meat-lovers’ bonus: there's even a grill set up for groups to

Let’s say, hypothetically, that while vacationing in Puerto Vallarta, you get tired of sitting on the beach, cruising the Malecón, or eating tacos that are so freaking good and cheap you find yourself crying into your Pacifico. Hypothetically speaking. Lucky for you, you can take a short boat trip to Islas Marietas, a group of small, uninhabited islands teeming with marine life. Strap on a snorkel mask and dive directly off the side of your boat. But seriously, strap on a snorkel and make sure the boat is in the sea first. Sea turtles, manta rays, octopi, wild dolphins, and humpback whales all call the waters surrounding the volcanic islands home. And when the tide is right, you can

snorkel to a hidden beach inside a hollowed-out cave with a massive natural skylight. That beats cramming down more tacos and beers -- but just barely.

Isla Todos Santos

Looking to charge some totally tubular waves (or more likely practice the perfect wipeout...)? Isla Todos Santos, a pair of islands off the coast of Baja, is one of the biggest surf spots in the world, and the cranking waves off the smallest island are really going off! (Read: They are the largest in North America. Googling surfer terminology is fun and easy). Surfers crashing in Ensenada can access the islands by boat and spend the day with marine lions, seals, pelicans, cormorants, and of course, other surfers. Divers can explore underwater gardens and caves.

Good to know: cowabunga in Spanish is "cowabunga."

Isla Espíritu Santo

Go here for the weird lunar landscape, and stay for the... weird lunar landscape. This island off the coast of La Paz in the Baja Peninsula is a 23,800-acre preserved desert. Your pics of the barren, sandy landscape juxtaposed against intense blue water will have your Insta feed blowing up with all the likes. Because that's why people go on vacation, after all. The protected biosphere that is Espíritu Santo claims manta rays, dolphins, gray whales, and gray sharks as inhabitants, too. Make it a day trip from La Paz, or come for a night of camping. Kayaking, scuba diving, and hiking are just a few of the activities teed up here. Original: www.thrillist.com

celebrity

Jul 16 - 22, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

olores Huerta stands at the center of an exhibition hall at the Smithsonian's National Portrait Gallery and listens to a curator tell the story of her life in pictures. At 85, with little sign of slowing down, Huerta has a lot to tell. She founded the United Farm Workers with César Chávez in 1962; helped refine the tactics — marches, boycotts, hunger strikes — now commonplace in progressive organizing; was dubbed the "Dragon Lady" by the male grape company negotiators who knuckled under to their diminutive female adversary's contract demands; and raised 11 children, who gave her 17 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. And she coined the rallying cry that is now ubiquitous in picket lines, presidential campaigns and sporting events: "Sí se puede." Yes we can. "That was amazing," Huerta says when curator Taína Caragol finishes a preview of the new exhibition, "One Life: Dolores Huerta," which runs through May 15, 2016. "I guess the only thing missing is my mug shot." There may not be a police booking photo from one of Huerta's two dozen arrests — mainly for nonviolent protest activity — but the exhibition does include a picture of her in a hospital bed after a beating by San Francisco police that ruptured her spleen and broke several ribs in 1988, when she was 58. For the Portrait Gallery, which is dedicated to relating the story of the United States largely through single images of key characters, most no longer living, the periodic "One Life" exhibitions are an opportunity to go deeper with a "visual essay" on someone, Caragol says. Huerta joins such previous subjects as Martin Luther King Jr., Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Paine and Elvis Presley — with the notable difference that she is still with us. Caragol pushed for a display on Huerta because the curator thinks her story deserves greater national attention. In a recent Chávez biopic, for example, a male lawyer is depicted as negotiating a groundbreaking labor contract

“One Life: Dolores Huerta”

“

All movements start from the bottom. I’ve lived it. I’ve seen it. We just have to continue working.” Dolores Huerta

for farm workers, when, according to Huerta, she was actually the negotiator. Also, Caragol says, the exhibition recognizes that the farm labor movement and Huerta's persona served as prototypes for later, better-known efforts. "Dolores integrated her family into her organizing," Caragol says. "Thanks to that new model of womanhood, she became very much an icon of feminism for mainstream feminists like Gloria Steinem, and she also became a very important icon for Chicanas within the Chicano movement." Soft-spoken in a green suit, the Dragon Lady doesn't breathe fire. She seems slightly embarrassed by the attention. But she's here, after all, patiently posing for pictures and giving interviews. It's another moment to serve the

movement, and the heat that those grape guys must have felt reveals itself as a slow, subtle burn, as Huerta sweetly makes her points about the simplest human decencies that are not granted — they are fought for. "Toilets and cold drinking water in the fields," she says. "We got that in our first union contract in 1966. It became law in California in 1975. At the national level it was mandatory in 1982." The exhibit marks the 50th anniversary of the Delano, California, grape strike in 1965, when workers walked out of the fields in California's Central Valley. It grew into a national boycott and launched the farm workers movement. Victory came five years later in the form of collective bargaining agreements between

workers and major growers in that state. Caragol assembled photos, videos and objects that concentrate on the decisive first 15 years of the movement. For Huerta, every picture in the exhibit tells a story. One image shows her holding aloft a homemade poster with taped letters that spell out "huelga," or "strike," in Spanish. "I'm standing on a car at the Schenley (growers) field" in Delano, 1965, she says. Later, she continues, in 2010, at a White House state dinner for the president of Mexico, by chance "sitting next to me this gentleman told me the story of how he had (represented) this company called Schenley." The man was a lawyer, "and they sent him down to Delano to see why the people were striking." Over dinner, the lawyer recounted to her that he advised the field bosses to stop charging the workers a huge fraction of their hourly wages for water. Who was this serendipitous dinner partner at the White House?

"Justice (Anthony) Kennedy of the Supreme Court," Huerta says. "Justice Kennedy was in Delano! Who knew?" Another picture shows the strikers marching from Delano to Sacramento in 1966. "This portrait is about the power of organizing," Huerta says. "There were only 70 farm workers when we started the march. ... When we got to Sacramento (25 days later) there were 10,000 people." It was right in the middle of that march, she says, "when we got the phone call that Schenley wanted to negotiate." For all the victories portrayed in the exhibit, Huerta's slow burn intensifies over what is yet to be won. The farm workers' gains in California have hardly been equaled in many other states, she says. These days she is no longer a union official. Through her foundation and personal efforts, she still works on a range of other issues, from immigration reform to LGBT rights to genetically modified food labeling.

mexico

Jul 16 - 22, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

24 Outrageous superstitions only mexicans will understand They’re only true if you believe in them. Right? By Alejandro Alba 21

1. If you ever dare stare at a dog while it poops you will get a pimple on your eye. Via sdpnoticias.com You don’t want a pimple on your eye, but is that even possible?

2. Beware of Tuesday the 13th not Friday the 13th. Overall it’s just an unlucky day so your aunts gather all their herbs and candles and give you a cleanse from all the evil spirits.

3. Don’t drop the tortilla or you’ll have the in-laws pay you an unpleasant visit.

15. If you scratch your itchy palm, money won’t come your way. If you want the money to come your way, place a coin on your palm until the itchiness goes away.

It’s said that if you drop a tortilla you will get a lot of unwanted and unexpected company. Superstition aside, you should never drop a tortilla. It’s good food going to waste.

16. Never have a pair of scissors pointing in your direction or at others, it will lead you down a road of disaster.

4. Don’t ever go to the river at night or the Llorona will get you.

Accidentally leaving them open can also lead to disaster. Then again, scissors are generally a dangerous item — superstitious or not.

“Ayyyy, mis hijos!” La Llorona comes from an urban legend about a woman who drowned her children and now her spirit hunts for others. True or not, it’s scary as hell.

17. Don’t place your bag on the floor or you’ll run out of money.

5. If you smile at a baby you better touch it or you’ll make the baby sick. “El mal de ojo,” roughly translates to evil of the eye. So, don’t look at cute babies otherwise they’ll get high fevers. The whole situation is just illogical, but if you want the baby to be protected then you have to put some charmed jewelry on them or form some sort of egg concoction.

6. A child must receive a token gift (bolo) when they are baptized or they will fart a lot. And who wants a smelly and rowdy child?

7. If a groom sees the bride or the dress before the wedding they are doomed. It will lead to a bad marriage, if there even is one.

8. If you’re a pregnant woman and there’s an eclipse, best have a safety pin near your belly. If they go outside without a safety pin on the abdomen the woman risks having her child born with a cleft palate.

Even in the most uncommon settings, be sure to have your handbag hook.

18. Stepping on a grave will summon the spirit and it will haunt you. 8

9. If you cut a baby’s fingernails before their first birthday, the child will have impaired eyesight. To what degree? No one knows.

10. Go outside with your luggage on New Year’s and you’ll basically travel the world. As soon as that clock strikes 12 o’clock you better get your bags and go outside. If you do, you guarantee yourself a year with lots of traveling.

11. Don’t let anyone sweep your feet or you’ll forever be single. If you’re single you will never get married. If you are married, well, your marriage is about to be destroyed.

12. If your ear is buzzing, oooh, somebody is talking smack about you. Supposedly if you bite your tongue it will make them stop talking shit. It might also hurt depending on how strong your bite is.

You should simply not step on someone’s grave out of respect.

19. When dogs howl it usually means a death is near. But what about Huskies? They always howl.

20. If an owl visits you at home that means there is someone trying to do you harm.

13. You better lock up all your farm animals at night or El Chupacabras will slaughter them. Actually, dingos, wolves, dogs, and many other animals will do the same.

14. Make sure you tell someone about your nightmares or they will come true. But if you have good dreams, keep them to yourself so they actually do happen.

Beware. People are out to get you in every corner. EVERY. CORNER.

21. If you step with your left foot first when you get out of bed, you’ll have a very unlucky day. No one has time to think about what foot they will place on the floor first each morning.

22. If you misbehave the Coco will come after you at night. This was always used by parents so children would behave properly. If you didn’t, the Coco would come out of your closet or from under your bed and pull your feet.

23. Don’t have the foot of your bed point toward the door or you’ll welcome in death. Apparently it’s a symbol of death since it is based on the saying, “Los muertos salen siempre de la casa con los pies por delante,” which translates to the dead always come out of the house feet first.

24. Don’t point at a rainbow or you’ll get a pimple on your nose. Why? www.buzzfeed.com

riviera nayarit

Jul 16 - 22, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Fun on the Riviera Nayarit By Cat Morgan

www.rivieranayaritfun.com

Tribute to Joslin Carson

first met Joslin Carson through the Grupo Ecológico de la Costa Verde, A.C., in San Pancho that is headed up by director Frank D. Smith. Frank writes a monthly post on the website about the progress of the San Pancho Turtles, egg counts, weather and updates on the general San Pancho news. Joslin created a Facebook page for the turtle project called San Pancho Turtles. I wanted to help promote the turtle project; needing all the help they can get, and this is how I first was introduced to Joslin. After a couple of years of connecting online, we finally met in Lo de Marcos for their new Turtle Project, and again in San Pancho when I was looking for a dog. Joslin is an amazing person. She helps every living creature.

She never wanted (and actually insisted on) any recognition for anything, only to promote the turtle project and any other creature that needed assistance. She is truly one of the most humble human beings I have ever met. In the recent July post that Frank wrote for the turtle website, he writes, “After nearly eight years of outstanding volunteer work, Joslin, Starlie and Summer Bertrand, are planning to move back to the United States in mid-July. The Bertrand family first arrived in San Pancho on September 15th, 2008, and for the most part, remained with the program throughout these years. Aside from her work with the marine turtles, Joslin kept her doors open to hundreds of sick, wounded and orphaned animals. The family’s absence will create a hole filled with both sadness and happy memories that can never be replaced. My task of continuing her tireless work will not be easy.”

Everyone in San Pancho and the surrounding communities truly love Joslin and her daughters Starlie and Summer Bertrand. When Frank writes that her doors (of her casa) were open to hundreds of sick or wounded or orphaned animals he is not kidding about those numbers. Joslin took photos of everything she rescued including things like the large flying ants stuck on a wet windshield after a rain. She picked every single one off to save them. Some of her more recent rescues are baby bats, and baby possums that were released just before she left. She recently released some baby birds whose nest fell in the rains. The list also includes chickens and eggs who all finally found a great ranch home. The list is long and goes on and on, including snakes, spiders and every living creature, and mother earth herself.

Joslin also liked to take photos of shedded skins and all sorts of bugs etc. Everyone who wanted to know what something was asked Joslin. She was our “guru”. If she did not know what something was she knew who to ask. Joslin had a lot of friends who helped her. I am sorry I don’t have all of your names, but you know who you are, from the vets to the turtle team and locals that know so much about the jungle and the living creatures of San Pancho and the Riviera Nayarit. You are also honored! One of the things I really love about Joslin is that she found love in everything. She would find hearts everywhere she went and took photos of them. Love in leaves, rocks, pancakes, tortillas, drinks, watermelon, sidewalks…. my favorite is in pond scum! Even in the pond scum she found love! It was wonderful seeing her posts

every day. Now, when many of us see a heart in something, we think of love and Joslin! Before leaving people left unsigned gifts on her doorstep of flowers, cakes and all sorts of presents which I believe humbled her greatly! She is truly loved and honored and will be dearly missed. It will take many folks to fill this woman’s shoes. Her last turtle beach shift (4am shifts) she was left with two turtle nests, which she states “Thank you universe” with a heart icon. She loved San Pancho and its people. The San Pancho folks had a huge banner made for her and was hanging in the street for her to see as she was leaving for the airport. Joslin, I wish you, Starlie and Summer the best of the best on your journey in the states. We will be here when you come back to visit. You’re truly one amazing person we all look up to and who walks her talk. Thanks for tuning in this week. Looking for some fun? If you’re looking for a rental drop me a line at Cat@RivieraNayaritFun.com or Energy Healing at Cat@NewEnergyConsciousness. com Have a super week everybody! AHO!

The Riviera Nayarit’s San Vicente area prepares for reforestation

he goal of the project is to benefit the region in different ways, such as reducing flooding via the absorption of river water, generating more oxygen and reducing the intense heat, to mention a few. Mexico’s Arbor Day celebrated with the first of several reforestation efforts in the Riviera Nayarit, beginning in the Texcamale area of San Vicente. The activity was organized by the Nuevo Vallarta EarthCheck Committee, which now actively includes the Riviera Nayarit Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB), the Banderas

Bay City Council, the Banderas Bay Tourism Trust (Fibba, by is acronym in Spanish) the Nayarit State Environmental Protection Agency (Semanay, by its acronym in Spanish) and the National Commission on Protected Areas (Conanp, by its acronym in Spanish). “This is a project we expect to implement every year in different areas, always ensuring we plant the right species and that the area will become a strategic starting point for an increase in the benefits of the reforestation,” said Marc Murphy, Managing Director of the Riviera Nayarit CVB. The

Banderas Bay City Council has been prepping and cleaning the area for days, and will be the main donor with a total of 500 saplings. Others involved, including the region’s hotels and the private initiative, will be donating trees and ornamental plants. Schools will also participate. All of the trees planted are timber-yielding and are species native to the area to ensure easy adaptation; some are protected species. The ornamental greenery will be planted along Federal Highway 200.Besides oxygen generation some of the many benefits include an increase

we invite you to reforest nature plants along the river

in the soil’s ability to absorb and retain river water, which will reduce the river’s flow rate during the rainy

season; the reforestation will also eventually help reduce the stifling heat.

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

Jul 16 - 22, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

charities

Jul 16 - 22, 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