Issue 957, July 30 - August 06, 2015

Catch us online @ vallartatribune.com

05

News LitterbugS ExposeD

10

Aug 06 - 12, 2015 Free Issue 957

Nature mexico mariposas

13

Riviera Nayarit cocos frios

FR

EE

G

U

ID

E

Courtesy Dr Randy Baker

SALUD!!

welcome

02

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.

Aug 06 - 12, 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

03

Editor’s Note

T

his week’s missive comes minutes after I joined a group of women business owners for a meet and greet breakfast. Part of a new Facebook group put together for women business owners, eighteen of us enjoyed breakfast and lively conversation. The mix of people at the table just goes to show you that Puerto Vallarta appeals to just about everyone.

From 30-70 years old, Mexican, Canadian, American and more, with businesses in marketing, writing, tourism, retail, real estate, dog walking, jewelry and health and wellness, it was a real pleasure to meet so many vibrant women who are making things happen on their own terms. If you are interested in joining the group send me a message and I’ll pass along the information.

There are a few events happening around town including two events connected to the Fiestalisco – Art and culture event that highlights local Jalisco artists around the state. This Wednesday

there is an interesting presentation (in Spanish) called Un hombre sin adjectivos. (A man without adjectives) being held at the Teatro Alarife Martín Casillas.

For more information on the events http://sc.jalisco.gob.mx/ festajalisco/inicio There is also a very exciting art exhibition on August 15th highlighting many of the best local artists including Tony Collantez, Misael Lopez, Bren Sue and Adrian Rojas.

It’s at Aquiles Serdan #387 in Centro along the Rio Cuale starting at 7pm. Come out and support our local artists.

On Tuesday, August 18th, a charity event for Cheryl’s Shoe Box and the Young Actors Workshop Scholarship will be held at Act II Entertainment. Musical festivities start at 6:30pm in the Encore Piano Bar with the Voice of Vallarta performers and Ms. Mikki Prost providing the entertainment.

The main show opens at 8:00 pm, featuring Piel Canela; Elvis, Back from the Dead Tour starring Anthony St. Martin; excerpts from Voice of Vallarta, The Concert; Mikki Prost; Rob Knight and more!

There are a number of raffle and auction prizes to be won. General

SPCA of Puerto Vallarta

C

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,

editor@vallartatribune.com

admission tickets cost $250 pesos and VIP seats (first 3 rows) are $300 pesos.

For more information visit the MUSIC FEST 2015 to benefit PV Children on facebook or contact Act II box office.

I had promised more information on my recent road trip but I haven’t had a second to write anything. It’s coming, I promise.

If you have any questions about traveling through Mexico, I have been to a good number of the most popular and some off-the-beatenpath places and I have researched and daydreamed about even more.

I’m happy to share my experiences and suggestions with you anytime.

Enjoy your week. Drink a couple coco frios and stay cool.

Safe travels, Madeline

Janice Gonzalez 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

Aug 06 - 12, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

The photo moment of the week Logan Carrillo went to the market with his family and waited patiently for them to finish shopping.

When his aunts left they forgot about little Logan and when they returned they found him sitting, waiting with his balloon friend.

Want to submit your photo? Send an email to editor@vallartatribune.com

Flower of the week

Sandra Cesca

Pigeon Berry Duranta erecta

G

olden Dewdrop. This perennial flowering shrub is often used as a ground cover. The tiny purple flowers are attractive contrasts in any ornamental garden. Native to Mexico, it grows well in tropical and subtropical regions. Its leaves and yellow-orange berries are toxic although not to birds who eat the berries. It attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds This plant is one of over 200 found in Sandra’s color-coded guidebook, Tropical Plants and Walks of Puerto Vallarta. Available at the Vallarta Botanical Gardens’ gift shop www.vbgardens.org, Page in the Sun Bookstore, and from Sandra at Vallarta Farmer’s Markets on Fridays and Saturdays. Information on her many area walks can be found at: www. escaperoutevallarta.com.

PROTECTION AND CARE OF ANIMALS

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

news

04

Peso does about-turn after bank responds

B

ank of México announces increased support, peso jumps 1% The peso shot up 1% yesterday to 16.1088 to the U.S. dollar after the Bank of México announced it would increase its daily dollar sales and auctions to buy more pesos. It was the strongest the peso has been since May 14; on Thursday it had dropped to 16.81 to the dollar. The central bank upped its daily sales of pesos and its extraordinary auctions from US $52 million to $200 million, and suggested there might be an increase in its interest rate.

Most analysts seemed to think the strategy was the most appropriate.

There had been expectations that the peso would strengthen as a result of energy reforms expected to bring more foreign

investment. But low oil prices have been a deterrent to that capital spending and the peso has weakened 8.2% instead.

Mexico has spent $6 billion to shore up the peso so far this year, but is sitting on reserves of $190 billion, giving the bank room to intervene, said its governor, Agustín Carstens.

That level of reserves is seen by macroeconomic strategist Kathryn Rooney as “enormous,” while economist Alonso Cervera suggests Mexico’s policy is the right one.

“This is what reserves are for.

If they’re not using reserves at a time when people are abusing the liquidity in the peso, then they’ll never use them,” he told Bloomberg.

Original: mexiconewsdaily. com

Mexico Census Identifies 5.7 Million Businesses

T

he Mexico government's statistics agency INEGI has reported the results from its 2014 business census, concluding that in 2014, there were 5.7 million registered businesses in Mexico, employing 29.6 million Mexicans.

The average works out to 5.2 people per firm. The comparable

figure in 2004 was 5.4 employees per firm. According to INEGI, 49.5% of employment was in non-financial services companies, 24.3% in commerce, 18.1% in manufacturing and 8.1% in other activities.

According to the census, 95.4% of firms in Mexico employed in 2014 between 0 and 10 people.

Mexico Trade Deficit Narrows in June

M

exico's trade balance deficit narrowed to $749 million in June from $1.0 billion in May. The result was above market estimates, which according to the latest Bloomberg survey had forecast a smaller deficit of $503 million.

On a 12-month rolling basis, the trade deficit widened to $6.6 billion, the widest since October 2009.

Non-oil exports rebounded 4.0% in June after the steep 6.7% monthly contraction reported in May (seasonally adjusted, non-annualized).

Manufacturing exports, which account for approximately 83% of total exports, rose 3.1% in June versus May, following a 6.8% monthly contraction in May. This increase was driven by a 4.6% month-over-month rise in non-vehicle manufacturing exports, followed by a modest 0.3% monthly rise in vehicle exports.

Finally, non-oil imports also rose in June versus May by a modest 0.9% mom, in seasonally adjusted terms.

Aug 06 - 12, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Increased flights since new partnership

F

light connectivity is one of the key factors in determining the results of the Joint Promotional Campaign undertaken by the Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta.

In that respect, the past two years have resulted in new flights, new routes and an increase in frequency of flights.

“The new flights and increases in frequencies are the result of longterm negotiations.

Everything works in synergy: if the destinations are promoted in an integral manner, the flights will continue to arrive,” commented Marc Murphy, Managing Director of the Riviera Nayarit Convention and Visitors Bureau. The Grupo Aero-

portuario del Pacífico has currently confirmed four new flights to the Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport for 2015.

These include three Southwest Airlines flights, each one with 7 flights per week departing from Orange County (June 7), Houston Hobby (October 15), and Denver

(November 1); and another operated by Alaska Airlines from Orange County (October 9) with three weekly flights.

There are currently 22 additional departures confirmed for 2015 for the already existing flights from different cities within Mexico, the United States and Canada.

Mexico Central Bank Leaves Interest Rates Unchanged

M

exico's central bank left the overnight rate unchanged at 3.0% in this week's monetary policy meeting, matching market expectations. The central bank also gave greater importance to the behavior of the exchange rate as a potential trigger of an interest rate increase.

Specifically, the bank wrote in Thursday's policy statement that it will be necessary to consolidate recent fiscal efforts and to adjust monetary policy in a timely way, given the risks that volatility in international financial markets will continue to increase or remain high. In the closing paragraph, the bank wrote that it will remain watchful of determinants of inflation and inflation expectations in order to be in a position "to take the necessary measures with all flexibility and at the moment that

conditions warrant it to consolidate the convergence of inflation to the 3.0% target".

In the elements that the bank will watch closely the bank mentioned "the performance of the exchange rate" ahead of its policy stance relative to that in the US and the degree of slack in the economy.

In previous statements, the mention of the policy stance relative to that in the US had been mentioned before the exchange rate and the state of the economy.

Elsewhere in the statement, the bank wrote that the balance of risks to growth had worsened since the previous meeting.

It characterized economic activity as showing moderate growth (as in the June statement), and noted the "weak performance" of manufacturing exports ex-autos, mining and construction.

On the inflation front, the bank wrote that the balance of risks had improved since the previous meeting, "even though significant risks of higher inflation persist", mainly the depreciation of the peso.

Finally, the bank's view is that the most important factor that explains the depreciation of the Mexican peso is the expectation of imminent increases in the Fed funds rate in the US. The bank also wrote that "the possible monetary policy actions by the Federal Reserve could have additional repercussions on the exchange rate, inflation expectations and, therefore, price dynamics in Mexico".

Analysts believe the central bank moved closer to an eventual interest rate increase, which may happen on or before policy dates.

Lath.com

U.S. data shows record tourist visits to MX

V

isits by American tourists rose 24% last year despite travel warnings Mexico continues to lure U.S. visitors in record numbers despite travel warnings and news of violent drug cartel crime.

American tourism to this country was up 24% in 2014, setting a record at 25.9 million visitors, according to U.S. Commerce Department data.

Mexico’s own figures, released in March, showed U.S. tourism was up but only by 11.8%.

The U.S. State Department issued two travel warnings last

year but they appear to have done little to deter visitors from coming south.

The exchange rate has worked in Mexico’s favor as the peso has been declining in value against the dollar since last summer. Lower air fares have also been cited as an incentive for international travel — overall it was up 11% last year —

by Americans.

The average airfare for international travel fell 2% last year.

Accessibility could be another reason for the increase in American visitors. “U.S. tourism to Mexico has increased in large part

due to Mexico’s concentrated effort to improve its accessibility,” Sinaloa Tourism Secretary Frank Cordova told the Los Angeles Times.

“Travelers have felt welcomed through the country’s rapidly exploding number of direct flights, and the hotels, conference centers and tourism destinations springing up throughout the country,” he said.

Mexico is the top international destination for American tourists, and Canada is second.

Mexico saw record tourist numbers last year: 29.1 million visitors, a 20.5% increase over 2013.

Original: mexiconewsdaily.com

news

05

Aug 06 - 12, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Indigenous women will supply hospitals

The “wrong” address in your tax return can earn you a love note from a state tax agency

Tarahumara artisans will provide sheets and clothing for ISSSTE

A

national health service is teaming up with indigenous women in Chihuahua to supply hospitals with sheets and clothing. In an effort to strengthen links with social enterprises, the Federal Employees’ Social Security Institute, ISSSTE, is ready to sign a multi-million-peso collaboration agreement with Tarahumara artisan women, stimulating their economy and improving their living conditions.

During a working tour in the northern state of Chihuahua, ISSSTE director Luis Alberto Godina Herrera announced an ambitious project to support the craft of the indigenous women, in which their expertise would be employed to supply a large number of the institute’s clinics.

Godina said he was excited about this project, and ready to sign

a 45-million-peso (US $2.8 million) contract with the women of San Juanito, a village in the Chihuahua municipality of Bocoyna.

Chihuahua Gov. César Duarte Jáquez expressed optimism about the project: “We would be very pleased if [ISSSTE] signed this agreement with the Tarahumara women. There’s a strong possibility of closing the deal this year, and production could begin shortly thereafter.”

Duarte said the women have experience making the products and the contract would have a positive impact on the community.

During his visit to Chihuahua, Godina also commented on a nationwide shortage of personnel.

The ISSSTE is currently in need of over 10,000 health professionals.

“Congress has approved a three-year program to reduce the

shortages in personnel, covering 4,000 positions this year, and 3,000 in 2016 and 2017, respectively. Nevertheless, [ISSSTE] can guarantee health care for all of our beneficiaries” despite the shortage, Godina said.

Godina and Duarte also delivered 600 credits and 100 mortgage cancellations to disaster victims, while assuring at the same time that 800 pending credits will soon be delivered. In total, the credits amount to more than 75 million pesos (US $4.7 million).

At least four municipalities — Boycona among them — were declared disaster areas last month after they experienced the heaviest rainfall seen in 25 years.

As much as 60 millimeters fell within a half-hour period in some areas on July 4.

Original: mexiconewsdaily.com

Mexican City Publicly Exposes Litterbug

O

fficials in the northern Mexican city of San Nicolas de los Garza are using a large billboard to display a photograph and the name of a man arrested for littering.

The picture, also posted on the city's Web site, shows a man staring into the camera like in a typical police mug shot.

A height strip is behind the man and a sign on his chest says: "Arrested for Being a Pig." The ad is part of the "For a Clean San Nicolas" campaign, the city said on its Web site, explaining that the man "was again caught dumping trash in public places after he had done it twice."

Mayor Pedro Salgado Almaguer said the enforcement measure had been in effect since April 2013, when the Municipal Sanitation Service Regulations were amended. The regulations "deem the dumping, spreading or leaving behind of trash or refuse, branches, utensils, dead animals or any kind of rubbish in public spaces, empty lots, parks, plazas and, in general, on sites not authorized" to receive garbage a violation.

"To tell you the truth, we must to do something to change what is happening," Salgado said. "In San Nicolas, we provide residents with the country's best garbage collec-

tion service and, even so, every day we pick up 25 tons of trash from streets and parks."

The city council "approved stiffer penalties," the mayor said, "and that's how we reached the point of exposing individuals who do not get it, and repeatedly soil the city." A warning is issued the first time a person is caught littering in the city; the second time, a fine is imposed and, if it happens a third time, the fine is increased.

At that point, the litterbug is

subjected to administrative arrest and his or her picture is exhibited on a large billboard. In this instance, the man is a resident of Apodaca, a nearby city. San Nicolas de los Garza officials spotted the man dumping trash three times, once from his car.

Salgado said the measure was designed to raise awareness among citizens and defended the use of the term "pig" because "things must be named for what they are."

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

W

hen people fill out tax returns, most are concerned with the figures in the tax return. Few give any consideration to another subtle, and important piece of information: the address. This could be especially important for those who make their home outside the United States.

To be sure, one may have a “stateside” address, for the obvious convenience. But that convenience may turn out to be an inconvenience.

I moved to the Washington DC area in late 2009. I worked in Washington DC, but for those last months of 2009, I lived in Virginia.

By the time the 2009 return was due, I had moved to Washington DC proper and had a DC mailing address. Without thinking much, I used it for my 2009 federal and Virginia income tax returns. I knew that because I was a resident of Virginia I did not have a DC filing requirement for 2009.

Sometime later, I got a love note from the DC Office of Tax and Revenue. They were asking where was my 2009 DC return.

I got it all sorted out. But, how did I get into the pickle in the first place? The IRS and the states have information sharing agreements. The information reported on a federal return gets shared with the state whose address is listed on the federal return. DC ran a computer matching program, and voilà, there was no matching 2009 DC return for Orlando. The computer spat a love note.

I take the time to explain this now, because you may live in Mexico full time but have that “convenience” stateside address,

that P.O. Box. I urge you to think before using it. Why? Because whatever state you list, will also run a matching program, and you too, could get a letter. California is notorious for this.

I have always believed that the best contact with taxing agencies is the least required.

So, if you are a have a residence in Mexico, and a corresponding address, using it will prevent a state from having your return pop up on account of a matching program.

Of course, you may still have a filing obligation with a state, depending on the source and amount of income you have, but that’s another matter altogether.

In fact, sometimes, it may even be more convenient for you to actually choose the stateside address. It all depends. Run the numbers, or ask your return preparer to do that for you.

I write about this in the middle of the year, when the last thing on people’s minds is tax.

But that’s precisely why it is convenient to work on this now.

Your tax return preparer may not be swamped with work now--perhaps bored to tears--and knowing this now may be useful. Besides, he or she may not look kindly if this question comes up late during the 2016 filing season.

Plan ahead…and choose your address carefully. If you are concerned about using your physical address in Mexico, consider renting a Mexico P.O. Box. Annual cost: 300 pesos for the calendar year.

Remember, it’s all in the address.

local

06

Paradise

and Parenting Leza Warkentin

mommyinmexico.wordpress.com

Casacada Palo Maria

T

he other day I decided it was time to avoid the house for awhile. I had spent a moment on Pinterest, you see, (sometimes I like to see what my arch-nemesis is up to) and realized that some people do more with their homes than simply wiping the handprints off the walls.

You may already realize that I am not one of those people.

If I started wishing that I was, I might go as far as dragging out the Christmas lights from the top of my daughter’s closet and scrounging around for an empty wine bottle. I might even make a half-hearted, embarrassing attempt at a DIY yard light that my husband would throw out while I was at work.

I decided we needed a family day trip to avoid this hassle completely. My husband saw on his Facebook feed that a friend had spent the day at the Cascada Palo Maria. The photos looked amazing; a tumbling waterfall and a crystal green pool below, giant boulders for sitting on and drinking cold beverages. Everyone was smiling. Everyone was relaxed. No one was sweating.

Gil’s friend told us that there was about a twenty minute walk from the highway to get to the waterfall. The GPS told us that we could drive in a short way from the highway. So we figured a ten minute walk sounded just about great.

We drove up the Mexico 200 toward Mismaloya. We almost reached Garza Blanca Resort when the GPS told us to turn left.

This was a dead end. We asked several people where we would find the Cascada Palo Maria.

The first one told us we had to park our car and walk, following the Palo Maria River to the waterfall. I did not like that answer so we asked three more, who told us the very same thing. I finally gave in when the last person told us it was a fifteen minute walk to the falls.

I’m going to tell you something. Nearly everyone I have met in Mexico, including my own husband, is an extreme optimist when it comes to time and distance. I’m going to tell you something else. It is neither fifteen minutes nor is it a “walk”. At some points we were climbing over boulders that were almost as tall as I am. It took our family at least fortyfive minutes. Upriver. Both ways (ok, well, it seemed like it).

However, if you are prepared for a hike and you enjoy a bit of cardio, this is a really wonderful experience for you and your school age children. Within about fifteen minutes we found a cool, tranquil pool in the river where local families were enjoying a dip.

It’s surrounded by lovely large rocks for sunning, jungle-y vegetation, and friendly faces (if you go in the afternoon. In the morning there will be fewer people).

If you leave this pool for the waterfall itself, be prepared for about thirty minutes of climbing over river rock, getting your shoes wet, and trying to find the path. In theory there’s a path, but it gets tired of being a path sometimes and hides for awhile while you slosh through the river.

Eventually we hit the waterfall.

I was exhausted. I was hot. But then I looked up, because, to my surprise, a work colleague was joyfully screaming my name as she perched on a rock about twelve feet above me, getting ready to leap into the clear emerald pool below.

Our family laughed, took some photos, and went for a swim, one of the best we’ve ever had in Puerto Vallarta. It’s nearly impossible to describe the kind of beauty that surrounded us, so you may want to come and see for yourself.

Apparently there are more waterfalls to be found if you continue on, but we were warned that it can be dangerous. Considering what we had already experienced, we stopped there for the day.

Easy? Absolutely not. Worth it? Oh yes. If you are bored and feel the way I do about home improvement, take a day to get away from it all and enjoy just one more of Vallarta’s jaw-dropping, heart-healing gifts of nature.

Aug 06 - 12, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

A good storm Terry Connell Terry Connell is a licensed acupuncturist and yoga teacher practicing in Old Town, Vallarta (www.eastmeetseast.net). In his spare time he walks his dog and reads and writes. His first book, “Slaves to the Rhythm” was a Cowley Literary Award Finalist (www.terryconnell.net).

F

rom my balcony, I could see heavy, gray clouds hanging low on the mountains. The air was thick with moisture, and the wind was picking up, but it wasn’t until I heard the deep rumble of thunder in the distance that I jumped into action. Calling my dog, I grabbed her leash and hustled us out the door before it started raining.

Twenty minutes later, I was back on the balcony with a fresh cup of coffee, my book, and my dog at my feet, ready for a good storm.

And it was a good one – for more than an hour, rain poured down in buckets as quick flashes of lightening split the air, quickly followed by ground shaking thunder. For a while, I tried to read, but eventually gave up, letting my eyes settle on the river rolling and splashing three floors below. It was a perfect morning…..until I noticed a white bottle of laundry detergent floating downstream, bobbing up and down, bouncing around the rocks.

Then I saw a lone sneaker, quickly followed by a water bottle, another detergent bottle…

The next morning I was at the mouth of the river with my dog – and a large trash bag, picking up the garbage flushed out by the storm and all I could think of is that line from The Graduate, “I want to say one word to you, just one word….Plastics.” With every water bottle, shopping bag, and straw I

pick up, I heard those words bouncing around in my brain. Almost fifty years later, that quote isn’t just a prediction, it’s become a curse.

There are so many threads to the conversation about the environment that it’s easy to get tangled in the who to blame/who should be cleaning up loop. I get caught in it all the time. My mind spins a negative story with every empty liquor bottle I find or when I stuff another dirty diaper in the garbage bag.

But here’s the thing: my thoughts don’t change what I see in front of me; a trash covered beach that needs to be cleaned up. For the record, I’ve also found broken umbrellas, countless beer bottles and cans, all kinds of take-out containers and a surprising number of shoes. I’ve rolled five or six car tires off the beach in the last year and even found a tube of fluorescent lighting – completely intact; probably washed ashore from a cruise ship.

I sat down to write about the guilty pleasure of a cup of coffee and a good storm. It’s one of the best parts of living here in low season.

I plan to be on my balcony enjoying as many as possible this season. You will also find me at the mouth of the river after the storm, trying to ignore my thoughts as I pick up the endless supply of plastic bottles and other garbage flushed out by the rains.

Emergencies: 060 Red Cross: 065 Non-Emergency Police 322.290.0507 Fire Department: 322.223.9476 Ambulance: 322.222.1533 Consulates American Consulate Nuevo Vallarta: 322.222.0069 24 hrs Guadalajara: 333.268.2145

Immigration: 322.224.7719 Consumer Protection: 01.800.468.8722 Tourism Offices Jalisco: 322.221.2676 Nayarit: 322.297.1006 Canadian Consulate 322.293.2894 24 hrs: 1.800.706.2900

local

07

Mexico holds on to win Ripken World Series

I

n a rematch from the 2014 Cal Ripken World Series World Championship game, reigning World Champion Southeast (West Raleigh, NC) squared off against International Champion Mexico at Cal, Sr.’s Yard.

“We’ve talked about this week since the kids were nine years old,” said Southeast manager Rick Pate.

“We made it a priority as a team to come here and compete.”

Toeing the rubber for Southeast, Garrett Moffett quickly found himself in a jam, surrendering five runs early on. Mexico came out swinging, rallying off the bats of Roque

Salinas and Vidal Sotela, who sent a three-run homer over center field. In hopes of preventing further damage, Southeast brought Zach Hurand to the mound, who struck out Carlo Rios to retire the side.

Southeast’s Sam Perez shot an RBI single to right field against the International Division’s Most Outstanding Player Roque Salinas to get Southeast on the board. Lifting Mexico out of a jam, Salinas struck out two to end the inning. Following suit to Salinas, Southeast’s Hurand resumed on the mound, striking out Jorge Ramos and forcing two groundouts.

After holding both teams scoreless in the second inning, Sotela singled up the middle, only to be picked off stealing second by Southeast’s Timothy Pate. With two on, Southeast’s Perez recorded his second RBI single to tack on another run, as Southeast trailed 5-2. Hurand’s performance on the mound silenced Mexico’s bats, allowing no additional runs off five strikeouts since taking over in the first.

Despite walking his first batter all game and surrendering a double, Hurand struck out Mexico’s Hector Mora to keep Southeast’s hopes alive.

With their backs to the wall and a World Championship on the line, Blake McCain recorded the team’s third hit. In the process of Perez striking out, McCain safely took off to second and narrowly reached third with Xander Lietz at plate. After battling Salinas at the plate, Lietz RBI singled to right field, bringing home McCain to slowly tack away at Mexico’s lead. With one out left, Mexico responded with a crucial line-up switch that sent Salinas to right field and brought Joel Ibarra in relief. Ibarra would secure Mexico as World Champions with a final pop up fly to left field – their fifth World Championship since the international tournament came to Aberdeen in 2003.

“This was a big stage for these kids,” said Rick Pate. “We came out off a big win last night and then come out again in front of several thousand fans. That’s a big stage for us. From getting off the plan and going to Under Armour to playing in the World Series Championship, it’s all been amazing.”

- Ripken Baseball

Aug 06 - 12, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Vallarta Tourism Board vows to support Centro

T

he Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board will increase its work in the promotion of the city’s Downtown, incorporating promotion, public relations and advertising of the zone’s hotels and offerings to visitors to the area.

Puerto Vallarta’s Downtown (El Centro) and Los Muertos Beach is considered the heart of Puerto Vallarta known for its nightlife, restaurants, bars and shopping.

The downtown area is walk-friendly with its quaint cobblestoned streets, white-walled houses, wrought-iron balconies and red-tiled roofs and home to most of Puerto Vallarta’s finest gastronomy, art galleries, crafts markets as well as designer

boutiques.

The town’s famous Malecón (boardwalk) lines the beach all along this area and the Arcos (Arches), across the street from the town’s main square, regularly holds open-air concerts, dance performances and fireworks.

The area is also home to many of Puerto Vallarta most unique boutique hotels, providing guests alternative one-of-a-kind stays.

Agustin Alvarez, Director of the Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board, said that the initiative will help promote the cultural and historical part of Puerto Vallarta an offer unique to the international destination.

- Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board

Adorable Dog In The Spotlight... Cinder

by Janice Gonzalez

T

his girl is the most precious rescue brought to our sanctuary recently. We think she is just adorable and her name is Cinder. She is about ten months old, a Terrier mix and about ten pounds. You won’t find a fur-ever friend with a sweeter temperament.

Cinder has a great personality, is playful as one would expect, but also super cuddly. She has been spayed, dewormed and is up to date on all her vaccinations. If you

are ready to open your heart and home to this loving girl, contact us at spcapv@gmail.com for an application.

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

Marsol Market News

A

ugust is the last month of our Marsol Summer Friday Market, but we have lots planned for you.

Each Friday from 9:30 to 1:30 you can sign up FREE for a raffle of great prizes from our vendors and merchants which will be held on the first day of our Winter Market starting on Friday, October 2. One free raffle ticket per person, so come

to sign up and be there on October 2nd at the Marsol Hotel Lobby by Las Velas Pier to see what you won.

On the last Friday of August, 28th from 9:30 to 1:30 we will have a BIG BAZAAR with all kinds of items available at bargain prices.

If you want to bring things to sell, please email for information to Marsolmarket@gmail.com.

THE PUERTO VALLARTA DINING-SHOPPING guide is 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 reference 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 round and also is distributed in Nayarit. www.puertovallartadining-shopping.com

The Marsol Market will be closed during September, however you are all invited to our traditional event "VIVA MEXICO" on Wednesday, Sept. 16 from 2 to 6 p.m. at the Marsol Hotel Lobby There will be a number of local restaurants providing great food, art exhibitions, and handicrafts, unusual jewelry, sculpture, clothing, accessories and more. We will have live music and raffles of dinners, and gifts

from our local restaurants and businesses. We are celebrating the freedom and great culture of Mexico, so please join this fun party.

Free admission.

Keep coming to the Friday market all during August to support your local vendors and get lots of great products that are not available anywhere else.

Be sure to attend our grand opening of the Marsol Winter Market on October 2 at 9:30 a.m.

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

nature

10

Mexico’s butterflies: The Gold-spotted Aguna

By Moralea Milne

E

very time I visit Puerto Vallarta there are a number of things I must do, sample some homemade ice cream (Oaxacan Kiss is a new favourite), indulge my sweet tooth with a few hot, cinnamon-coated churros and most importantly, explore the butterfly habitats of whichever area I am in. Soon I am jettisoning my friends and family and spending many happy hours engrossed in a search for butterflies.

With my much abused, chipped and worn camera in hand, I stealthily attempt to capture their form

and beauty within a digital image.

Stealthily because they can sense my presence from metres away, too distant to enable a clear image.

To make photographing them more challenging, some species never seem to alight for more than mere seconds, or they show remarkable cunning in evading my lens, just barely peeking around the side of a tree trunk or under a leaf. Still, that is the beauty of any passion, surmounting challenges, executing a flawless task, learning more than you knew before.

With butterflies the thrill is in accomplishing the perfect, evocative photograph; in the identification of the species (often impos-

Aug 06 - 12, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

sible to do); in learning the secrets of their lives, "which plant do they use as a host on which to lay their eggs?"; and on sharing that information with others.

Recently I photographed what I believe is a Gold-spotted Aguna, not a butterfly gifted with extraordinary beauty, but one that has a more subtle resonance when captured in just the right circumstance.

Agunas are members of the Skipper family, a vast array of generally small, nondescript but fast-flying butterflies that have hooked antennae.

The Gold-spotted Aguna lays its eggs on legumes, particularly in the Bauhinia family of trees, shrubs and vines, some of which are known as orchid trees.

Like many skippers, the young caterpillars are green with a prominent, reddish head, the older caterpillars becoming paler as they mature and move into their astounding transformation to their butterfly form.

With over 1750 species of butterflies, Mexico has a great number of planet Earth's butterfly species, as well as thousands of moth species, many which rival the bejewelled magnificence of their day flying cousins.

Whether it is birds, butterflies or botanical wonders, Mexico has provided me with a wealth of photographic opportunities, although the talent and skill to capture their beauty and ephemeral nature is another matter entirely!

culture

11

Aug 06 - 12, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Katy Jurado: A Moviestar in Mexico and the USA

By Fred Jacobs he was born in 1924 and passed away in 2002 at the age of 78. Her family was well to do until the Mexican Revolution in 1910-1920. Their lands were confiscated but despite the loss they still lived in luxury. Katy grew up as a raving beauty. She was discovered by the Mexican director Emilio Fernandez he wanted to hire her as a 16 year old her for one of his films. Instead the family said no. Katy instead secretly married another actor Victor Velasquez in 1939. They had a boy and a girl but the marriage only lasted 4 years.

She made her movie debut in 1943 in “No Mataras”.

In the 1950’s she became a movie star in both countries. Her main break came when she played Gary Coopers former mistress in “High Noon”.

It was a big hit and she symbolically placed the Mexican flag on the US film industry. In 1954 she became the first Latin actress to receive an Academy Award as best supporting actress for her role in “Broken Lance” with Spencer Tracy. By this time she had moved permanently to Los Angeles.

She had met the American actor Ernest Borgnine with whom she co-starred with in the 1958 film, “The Badlanders”. After they married it was a stormy relationship with many breakups and reconciliations. They split up for good in 1961 but the divorce did not become final until 1964. They had no children together. Borgnine described her as great beauty but a “tiger” to live with.

In 1961 she starred in Marlon Brando’s sole effort as a Director in “One Eyed Jack”. She has a history of having played with every major US star in the last century: from Charlton Heston in 1953 in “Arrowhead”, “Trapeze” with Burt Lancaster in 1956, Anthony Quinn also in 1956 in “Man from Del Rio”among many others. And towards the end of her career she even made “Stay Away, Joe” with Elvis Presley, in 1968.

In 1986 she had a failed suicide attempt. The last movie she made was in 2002 “Un Secreto del Esparanza” and lived her last years in Cuevavaca Mexico.

The daughter of her first marriage survived her and was at her funeral. Nobody mentions the many love affairs she had in

S Art for Everyone at this year’s Festalisco August 8-15

The third anniversary of the Festival of Arts of Jalisco, FESTA2015, will be held from August 8 to 15 August around the state of Jalisco in celebration of the art and culture that is created by those in Jalisco.

The Festival of Arts of Jalisco FESTA is organized annually by the state Department of Culture.

During the festival, 48 municipalities and 1,280 local artists will take be a part of activities in venues around the state.

The program this year includes music, theater, visual arts, photography, digital arts, folk dance, literature, presentations of the José Pablo Moncayo Youth Symphony Orchestra and two tributes “Nadie escribe el libro que desea escribir”

by Vicente Leñero and “Amar Vivir.

Un tribute to Consuelo Velázquez”.

All activities are free with most events being held around the city of Guadalajara. For events held at the Teatro Degollado tickets will be distributed at the main entrance of the venue one hour before the starting of the function.

For more information on specific events visit http://sc.jalisco.gob. mx/festajalisco/inicio Legacy alive The novelist, screenwriter, journalist, playwright and academic Vicente Leñero and Velázquez Consuelito pianist and composer will be honored this year with unprecedented shows produced by local artists. One goal of the festival is to recognize the artistic legacy of immortal Jalisco.

Art for everyone For eight days the people

of Jalisco can enjoy 54 cultural events for all age groups and eight workshops and a series of cinema.

Activities include dance, theater, popular culture, exhibitions, digital arts, literature and specialized art workshops.

Two events located close to Puerto Vallarta are: Wednesday, August 12 8pm The man without adjectives – Un hombre sin adjectivos Location: Teatro Alarife Martin Casillas.

Group: Grupo de Teatro Dionisio / 1º lugar Encuentro de Teatro del Interior.

Author: Mario Cantu.

Director: Juan Pablo Hernandez Salcedo.

Synopsis: Millan, Diana and Isaac travel towards Veracruz for the the funeral of Aunt Lula.

Their journey takes an unexpected turn caused by their unique personalities that are mixed with a variety of disorders such as narcolepsy, cataplexy, insomnia, attention deficit, sexual repression and even schizophrenia. A story that will make us to question who is crazy and who is not.

Aimed at: Teenagers and adults.

Duration: 90 minutes.

Saturday, August 15 5pm Pride in Jalisco Location: Forum of Art and Culture.

Group: Municipal Folk Cabo Corrientes.

Director: Mr. Juan Antonio Salcedo Padilla Municipality: Cabo Corrientes.

Aimed at: general public.

Duration: 50 minutes.

between marriages. She was a Mexican National Heroine, that held down a civic job as a State Film Commissioner. She kept busy in both countries even though she suffered from lung and heart ailments. She received many awards in both countries but it was never forgotten that she was the first Mexican to win an Academy Award in 1954. Both countries are proud of her.

Fred Jacobs is the writer of 3 books and is a full time resident in Puerto Vallarta.

riviera nayarit Mexican microbrewers step out of the shadow of the country’s beer giants 12

Aug 06 - 12, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

By Joshua Partlow and Gabriela Martinez WASHINGTON POST

R

odrigo Escudero comes from thoroughbred Mexican beer stock, Coronas and Tecates coursing through his family’s veins. From his immigrant great-great-grandfather on down, his forebears worked for the country’s two mega-breweries, and he started his own career as an intern with the world’s largest beer exporter, Grupo Modelo, maker of the college and beach-party favorite Corona.

“It was my dream job,” he said.

“The smell. The people. The vibe.”

Now Escudero, 31, finds himself happier working with a single colleague in a cramped secondstory office surrounded by samplers of oatmeal stouts, citra hops pale ales and barleywines. His tiny company, La Patrona, is in the vanguard of a boozy renaissance that is challenging what it means to be Mexican beer. As the country’s middle class expands and regulators step in to encourage competition, the craft beer scene has taken off.

“It’s really growing fast,” said Gilbert Nielsen, the owner of the craft brewery Calavera, on the outskirts of Mexico City. “We’re reaching a critical mass of customers, of people who like craft beer and will look for it.”

From trendy rooftop beer gardens to grungy punk bars to 100-label tasting rooms, Mexican microbeers of all kinds are flourishing.

And what is happening in the beer market, with its upstart tequila-barrel-aged ales and banana brews, is something that Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto’s government hopes to encourage in other industries as the economy develops. It has taken steps to break long-standing monopolies, most prominently the telecom empire of billionaire Carlos Slim, and this month plans to auction off oil blocks to foreign companies for the first time in the better part of a century.

For generations, two companies, Grupo Modelo and Cuauhtemoc Moctezuma, had a stranglehold on the loyalties of Mexican drinkers.

Their duopoly dominated the $20 billion market, and their exclusivity contracts with bars and restaurants meant that customers could buy beers only from one of their lines.

They made all the well-known Mexican brands: Modelo brews Corona, Pacifico and Negro Modelo, while Cuauhtemoc makes

Dos Equis, Tecate and Sol. Challengers often found themselves strong-armed out of business by the mega-brewers, which could offer restaurants and bars perks such as renovations, televisions, tables and chairs, coolers, mugs, free beer and cash bonuses.

When Jesus Briseño opened the Minerva craft brewery in Guadalajara a decade ago, he convened restaurant owners to sample his product. When they expressed interest, he bought 15 keg refrigerators to give them, but only one restaurant agreed to sell the beer, because the others had contracts with one of the giant breweries. “That was very difficult,” Briseño said.

But Minerva, which has managed to grow from three to 52 employees, now faces a more welcoming business climate.

Craft beer has taken off in part because Mexico’s gastronomic scene in general is thriving and chefs at restaurants that often make “world’s best” lists take an interest in it. But brewers also cite two major changes that helped them.

The first was a 2013 ruling by the Federal Competition Commission that limited exclusivity deals by the big brewers to a quarter of their points of sale. That ruling followed a legal challenge by Minerva and Mexico City microbrewer Primus —

teaming with London-based giant SABMiller — and opened up space for small brewers to sell in restaurants and bars.

“It had been practically impossible for us to enter this market,” said Jaime Andrew, an owner of Primus beer.

The other change was the purchase by foreign companies of the dominant Mexican brewers: Heineken purchased Cuauhtemoc in 2010, and Belgian-based AB-InBev bought the half of Modelo that it didn’t already own in 2013.

Since then, the industry titans have warmed to their pint-size competitors.

The chief executives, Ricardo Tadeu of Grupo Modelo and Marc Busain of Heineken Mexico, met with craft brewers and told them they would help sort out any problems.

The industry brewers’ association opened up two seats out of the eight for micro-beer makers.

“When the new guys came, the first thing they did was reach out to us,” Briseño said. “They knew they needed to stop the fighting. It would mean more damage for them right now in terms of reputation.”

Goliath stomping on David is not a good public relations strategy, but a foreign Goliath on a Mexican David is even worse. The claim to be local, traditional and authentic

has become one of the strongest marketing arguments for craft brewers.

“People started looking at Mexican craft beer with much more pride,” said Escudero, of Patrona. “I have gone to some restaurants, and the first question they ask you is: Is your beer Mexican?”

Craft beer, which costs more and is harder to find outside the major cities, accounts for less than 1 percent of the Mexican beer market. But it has been growing swiftly, and there are now 50 to 100 microbrewers operating year-round in Mexico, according to the industry association. With some growth rates surpassing 30 percent annually, they’ve attracted the interest of the industrial brewers.

This year, Modelo launched a Web site called Beerhouse to sell their line, plus dozens of other artisanal and import beers, via home delivery.

“We see the artisanal market as complementary and valuable,” a Modelo spokesperson said in a statement.

Modelo has also tried to buy some of the craft brewers. Briseño said that Modelo offered him $60 million for Minerva this year but that he turned it down. Reports in the Mexican media say Modelo plans to purchase craft beer brands such as

Tijuana and others.

“That rumor exists, that Grupo Modelo is interested, but until now, that’s all it is, a rumor,” said the sales manager for Tijuana, Israel Acevedo de Anda.

Some paths into the beer market are still blocked. The ubiquitous Mexican convenience store, Oxxo, is part of the same ownership as Heineken, and therefore closed to craft beer, as are other Wal-Martstyle retailers.

“We’ve had a lot of trouble with the big chains,” Briseño said. “They don’t want to let those go.”

But for an industry that just a few years ago mostly comprised homebrew enthusiasts, they’ve come a long way.

Last week, Nielsen, of the Calavera brewery, was bottling a dark lager called “Pacto,” Spanish for “deal,” named for all the agreements that small and large beer companies were now striking in Mexico.

It was, he said, a “commemoration that we’re in the ‘in group’ and not in the ‘out group’ any longer.”

“For most of us, at least the first generation of craft brewers, this was not so much a business, it was a passion and a way of life,” he said.

“Waking up in the morning and saying, what are you going to do today? I’m going to brew 5,000 liters of beer. That’s not bad.”

riviera nayarit

13

Aug 06 - 12, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Fun on the Riviera Nayarit

By Cat Morgan

www.rivieranayaritfun.com

Why Should You Drink Coconut Water?

C

oconut water has become the new health craze!

Although here in Mexico they have known all along that coconut water is healthy and helps to maintain a balanced digestion system. Coconut water is one of nature’s electrolytes as well replenishes and hydrates the body and helps you from cramping in heat and humidity.

Low in calories, cholesterol free and naturally fat free, coconut water also has more potassium than four bananas! Natural unflavored or enhanced coconut water, once per once, contains 5.45 calories! And only 1.3 grams of sugar, 61 mg of sodium.

Check out those levels to any of your favorite sports drink! You can purchase it at just about any store and many restaurants now.

You do, however, need to watch your intake as the calories can add up, and also, it does make things “flow”. It’s a great addition to your smoothies and juices, or straight

up as it has a delicious flavor.

The great thing about living here in Mexico is that you can find fresh green coconut vendors in just about any town plaza or corners by schools and markets.

My favorite coco water guy, Arturo, is up calle Estaciones across the street from the school.

He has Coco Frio. (cold coconut water) A lot of vendors will also have coconut water with sugar added. I pass on that drink as I don’t want the added sugar. I stop for a coco frio at least once a week.

Coconut water is also quite affordable as pricing ranges from 15 pesos to 30 pesos with your local vendor…with the 30 peso price usually on the playa. You can sip it right out of the green coconut, cut right in front of you, or sometimes they put the juice in a plastic bag with a straw so they can cut up the coconut for you to enjoy the delicious coco meat inside. I really love eating the coco meat with lime and chili; Mexican style!

You know, I actually purchased a machete just for the purpose of cutting a green coco to have the

fresh juice, but have found I have a great fear of cutting off my hands or fingers. It’s just so much easier to go and see Arturo!

Here are a few tips on how you can use coconut water 1) In the heat and yeppers…its hot! You can make coconut water ice cubes. Add lavender, pieces of fruit like blueberries or raspberries and chill yourself down.

2) You can wash your face with coconut water. It is said to reduce acne and control oily skin and moisturize.

3) Cure your hangover by hydrating with coconut water. Your low electrolyte levels are why you

feel so terrible. Drink coconut water before you go to bed.

4) Swap it out for stock when cooking. It adds a great flavor and is perfect for sweet or savory.

5) Make coconut popsicles by adding fresh fruit and pour into molds.

6) Make your own face mask to pamper yourself. Combine lemon, coconut water, a pinch of cinnamon and a bit of natural yogurt. Add a little turmeric and quick oats to create a paste. Leave it on from 5-10 minutes to create soft and nourished skin.

7) Make fresh salad dressing.

Combine ¼ cup of coconut water,

2 tbsp. of lemon juice, 2 tbsp of olive oil and a pinch of salt and cracked pepper. A perfect dressing for a mixed fruit or vegetable salad. You can also use this dressing to for your baked veggies!

Add ¼ cup of orange juice and 2 tbsp of tamari, 1 tbsp of mustard and crushed garlic…and roast away.

Well, there are a few ideas on what to do with your coconut water, other than enjoy it as a refreshing drink.

Thanks so much for tuning in this week! Go and get your Coco Frio groove on!

Other free fun in La Cruz…. at the La Cruz Marina…join in on the free fun every Friday at 5 for pool volley ball. Free Dart games at the Gecko Rojo every Monday and Thursday from 5-7.

If you’re looking for rentals, especially a long term rental, send me an email to Cat@RivieraNayaritFun.com. I am also available for appointments for Energy Healing treatments: Cat@NewEnergyConsciousness.com Stay tuned for next week on how gratitude can bring grace into your life.

Namaste’ a todo!

14

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

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

brain teasers

Aug 06 - 12, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

charities

15

Aug 06 - 12, 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

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

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

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