Issue 971, Nov 12 - 18, 2015

Catch us online @ vallartatribune.com

08

News top tourist destination

15

Nov 12 - 18, 2015 Free Issue 971

Riviera Nayarit Saving Turtles

19

Entertainment palm opens 16th season

FR

EE

G

U

ID

E

courtesy HACIENDA SAN ANGEL

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.

Nov 12 - 18, 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

DRINKING WATER: For the 18th year 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.

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 cisandra@vallartatribune.com

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

editorial

03

Nov 12 - 18, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Editor’s

Note

editor@vallartatribune.com

T

his week there have been marching bands practicing in my neighbourhood each day, sometimes all day long. At first I thought it was the school

ceremony but that’s just Monday mornings – this has been all week.

I think they are practicing for the upcoming Revolution day celebrations, or perhaps for the Peregrinations that begin December 1st and run to the 12th.

If you are lucky enough to be in town during this time, it is one of such festivity. We will have more information in the coming weeks on the Day of Revolution as well as the twelve days of celebration of the Virgin de Guadalupe. Now is the time to purchase some elastic waist pants because the street food is amazing during these festivities.

This week we have all the regular farmers markets open including the Forever Spring Market in Bucerias, there is a hopefully complete list of markets and regularly scheduled events on page 22. If you see something missing, please let me know. The Palm is opening its doors for its 16th year.

Lots of great acts to enjoy including Kim Kuzma, Bohemia Viva and the second installment to the hit comedy Greater Tuna from last year, staring Tracy Parks and his

brother Terry Dale Parks. You can find more information on The Palm and its lineup on page 19.

A couple of foodie festivals happening this week and next with the 21st rendition of Festival Gourmet (November 16-22) and the newly created Que Rico (November 11-15) featuring four of the top restaurants in Vallarta offering up close and personal dining experiences with the restaurateurs.

And to wash it all down we have a new Beer festival happening on November 20-21 called Rising Hop, only $100 pesos and kids are free! Gotta love this country. Check out their website for more information at www.risinghop.com Plenty of options to fill your calendars with. Have yourself a great week. I’ll be back next week with more fabulous things to do, see, taste and explore.

Safe Travels, Madeline

Flower of the Week Plumeria Plumeria (Spanish) Plumeria sp.

Frangapani. In the dogbane family, this lovely flower is most fragrant at night; used in leis and incense for their intoxicating perfume; sap may irritate eyes and skin; the white flower is used for ceremonies such as weddings and funerals; often planted in cemeteries.

This plant is one of over 200 found in Sandra’s new color-coded guidebook, Tropical Plant Walks of Puerto Vallarta. Available now at Page in the Sun Bookstore

SPCA of Puerto Vallarta - Adopt a Senior Pet

N

ovember is Adopt a Senior Pet Month. Often overlooked, these senior canines and felines are so special.

Anyone who has adopted a senior will tell you how rewarding it is to provide a warm and loving home for a wonderful animal’s remaining years. Come 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 extre-

mely 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. Tours will be each Tuesday and Thursday leaving from the Costco parking lot at noon. Please note that reservations are required and space is limited. To make a reservation, contact us at spcapv@gmail.com.

Please feel free to bring donations and treats for sanctuary staff as they truly appreciate it.

Photos To see our animals available for adoption, visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/spcapv.

Go to Photos where you will also

Sandra Cesca

and from Sandra at the Paradise Community Center Farmer’s Market on Saturdays. Information on her many walking tours can be found at: www.escaperoutevallarta.com.

By Janice Gonzalez

find individual Albums for all the animals available as well as a bit of their history.

Donate 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.

Old Town Farmers Marke

Taste the Berry-Goodness of Frutas Frescas

By Erin Staley

A

special thanks to the vendors, volunteers and shoppers who made our 7th Season opening day a smashing hit! More national and international shoppers came out than any other opening day in market history, and we are simply delighted!

Also in attendance for the ribbon cutting ceremony were the new Minister of Tourism, Dr. Ramon Gonzalez and his delegates, as well as Magdalena Avelar, President of the Asociacion de Vecinos Emiliano Zapata. Endless thanks for their ongoing support of our 90+ “make it, bake it, grow it” producers.

Meet Frutas Frescas This week, we're showcasing the delicious “berry-goodness” of local vendor, Frutas Frescas.

Frutas Frescas is the pride of Pedro and Maria de Lourdes Hipólito and their son, Edgar. They have several decades of berry-growing experience from working a family-owned farm in Michoacán and each week bring their delicious strawberries and blackberries to the market.

Their growing practices always produce firm, plump and deeply coloured batches to give berry lovers like you maximum flavour and health benefits.

Known as “the queen of fruits,” strawberries are considered to be super foods for their high antioxidant, vitamin and mineral properties. Eating strawberries on a regular basis lowers one’s blood pressure, boosts short-term memory, eases inflammation and promotes bone and eye health.

Strawberries also slow the aging process and help to burn stored fat.

The Ancient Romans even used them to relieve symptoms caused by fever, gout, halitosis and certain blood and liver diseases.

Frutas Frescas berries are the

Frutas Frescas is the pride of Pedro and Maria de Lourdes Hipólito and their son, Edgar. They have several decades of berry-growing experience from working a family-owned farm in Michoacán and each week bring their delicious strawberries and blackberries to the market. perfect snack for market shopping.

They're also a top-notch addition to Greek yogurt, homemade dips and salads made from farm-fresh produce – also available at the OTFM-TC! Stop by the Pedro & Lourdes' stall to pick up your next batch of Frutas Frescas strawberries and blackberries. And to connect directly with Frutas Frescas, email or call 322-194-1847

Food-Fabulous

When you're ready for some more tasty goodness, stop by our International Food Court – now in its new location across from the beach. Enjoy Thai, American, Taiwanese and Mexican as well

as our vegan options, including hamburgers, al pastor and falafels.

Check out the many other venders “sweet stuff” including: • Artisan chocolates • Peanut brittle • Cakes & cookies • Candied nuts • Chocolate-covered bananas • Sweet breads, sticky buns & cinnamon rolls

Meet the Market

The OTFM-TC is a North American style market that celebrates the tradition and culture of Mexico’s outdoor tianguis markets. It is also a registered non-profit/association civil organization that focuses on nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit

of Puerto Vallartans. All OTFM-TC products are either locally grown or handmade within 75 kilometres of the city.

You’re Invited!

We’re open 9:30-2 every Saturday, from November 7 to April 30, 2016.

We’re located at Lazaro Cárdenas Park in Vallarta’s Emiliano Zapata neighbourhood.

For only 12 pesos an hour, you can park in the garage directly beneath park.

Public buses and taxis also come this way with a Pino Suarez Street drop off.

et - Tianguis Cultural

Find us at Parque Lázaro Cárdenas Romantic Zone Saturdays 9:30 - 2:00 pm

Swimwear and beachwear made ​​to order!

Teresa Moreno Fb: TYBikinisYMas

Tel. 322-137-04-77 ty-bikinis-y-mas@hotmail.com Federalismo #1383 Colonia Lomas del Coapinole Pitillal, Jal

Artisan Bakery

…where bread is an art.

Na tu rally leave ne d sou rd ou g h s pe cialt y b r ead s ba ke d in ou r ow n ma so nry ov e n.

Get Involved!

Interested in becoming a new vendor or volunteer? Stop by the information booth for an application.

For the latest in market news (both in English and Spanish), visit www. oldtownfm.com and “like” us on Facebook (Old.Town.

Farmers.Market.PV).

Tel. 224-6670 Cel: 322-116-9908

Heriberto Saucedo Pérez Artista Diseñador Cel. 3222.190 56 32 Fb: Heriko Joyeria herikojoyeria@hotmail.com Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

news

06

Nov 12 - 18, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Castro Ends State Visit How cyber-connected is Mexico? to Mexico, the Symbol T of Renewed Relations he 2015 survey of connectivity by Mexican consultancy Gabinete de Comunicación Estratégica (GCE) provides further support, if any were needed, of the north-south digital divide that we have commented on several times previously. GCE carried out a telephone survey of 49,600 people, across the entire country, including respondents in the 76 largest cities. Respondents ranged in age from 18 to 50; 48% had a university degree and about the same percentage was categorized as “lower middle class”.

The survey question was “¿Cuenta usted con conexión a Internet?” (Do you have a connection to the Internet?)

At city level, Cancún was the most connected city. The two cities sharing the lowest levels of connectivity were Tlaxcala and Acapulco. At state level (map), Baja California Sur led the way in terms of Internet users (84% of respondents claiming access to the Internet), followed by Nuevo León (81.5%) and Baja California

C

uban President Raul Castro left the southwestern city of Merida on Saturday after wrapping up a symbolic state visit during which both countries confirmed the total recovery of their bilateral relationship.

The Mexican presidency told EFE that the president left the country Saturday morning after his first state visit since taking office in 2006.

The visit signifies the definitive restoration of ties between the two nations following the rapprochement with the island sought by Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto after a decade of the Mexican government keeping its distance, something the two leaders made clear in a message to the media.

“In the relaunch of this bilateral relationship, in the encounter between sister nations, we have renewed the affection, respect and admiration that both peoples have shared over time,” Peña Nieto said, while Castro recalled the “special relationship” between the two countries.

On Friday night, Castro attended a private reception where he received the General Salvador Alvarado Medal, the highest distinction awarded by the Yucatan state government to distinguished visitors and outstanding personages of the state, the Yucatan government said Saturday in a

communique.

State Gov. Rolando Zapata presented the decoration to “the historic leader of the revolution of that Antillean country, which honors men and women who carry the message of social justice, equality, dignity and solidarity.”

In response, Castro said the award “symbolizes and confirms the historic ties that exist between the Yucatan and that Caribbean nation.”

Castro also spoke about the half-century of the U.S. economic embargo, which he slammed as “illegal and immoral” and thanked Mexico for its role in denouncing it internationally.

Nonetheless, the meeting between the presidents focused on other matters, particularly on the interest Mexican business owners and executives have in the island following the economic opening promoted by Castro.

In an interview with EFE, Francisco Gonzalez, director of ProMexico, the organization that promotes Mexico abroad, said that more than 150 companies have approached his group over the past year-and-a-half seeking opportunities in Cuba, particularly attractive for its geographical proximity and the modernization of its economic model.

LAHT.com

(80.4%). (Note that the likely margin of error in results is plus or minus 4%.)

Guerrero is at the other end of the scale, with just 49% of residents online. After last-place

Could MX influence drug policy change?

F

ormer Colombian president thinks Mexico is in a strong position to bring it about In the wake of the decision by the Supreme Court to open the door to the legalization of marijuana, the Mexican government has shown an openness towards the issue, says former Colombian president César Gaviria, and should consider demanding a change of drug policy in the United States.

The chairman of the Global

Commission on Drug Policy (GCDP), Gaviria believes Mexico is in a strong position to demand a policy change during the 2016 United Nations General Assembly Special Session on Drugs (UNGASS).

On a recent visit to Mexico, the Colombian politician and Ruth Dreifuss, former Swiss president and also a member of the GCDP, held meetings with Mexican authorities, including Interior Secretary Miguel Ángel

Osorio Chong and Attorney General Arely Gómez. Even then, the GCDP representatives noted an openness on the part of Mexico to debate drug regulation.

“President Peña Nieto will be in attendance [at UNGASS 2016] and should assume a leadership role, as we’re expecting, because this country has the moral authority with tens of thousands of deaths behind it. [Mexico] has the right to tell the international

GMO opponents win another round

M

aya beekeepers get injunction against Monsanto's soybeans.

Foes of GMO are celebrating a Mexican Supreme Court ruling this week in favor of an injunction filed by Maya beekeepers on the Yucatán peninsula.

The decision suspends a permit granted to the agrichemical firm Monsanto to farm genetically modified soybeans on over 250,000 hectares in the region and instructs a federal agency it must first consult with indigenous communities before

granting any future permits for transgenic soy farming.

To justify their decision the judges drew upon the constitution, which states that the opinion of indigenous communities should be taken into consideration when their way of living and culture could be at risk because of a new project or development.

The injunctions against Monsanto, obtained with the support of several non-governmental organizations, were requested by communities

whose main economic activity is honey production and collection.

After the court’s decision was made public, organizations including Greenpeace, Indignación and Litiga OLE said Maya communities believe that allowing the farming of transgenic soybeans violates their right to be consulted, and is a threat to a healthy environment.

The organizations said farming genetically-modified soybeans in the region puts

07

Guerrero came Zacatecas, where 53% were connected, and Oaxaca with 55%.

Most Internet users in those three states used a desktop computer to connect. On average, most Internet users spent an hour or two a day online and social networks were the most popular destination for 20% of respondents.

Facebook led the way among those networks with 74%, followed by WhatsApp with 12% and Twitter with 7%.

Another question in the survey asked which was the most trustworthy source for information: the Internet, television or newspapers.

The Internet won with 28%, television came second with 25% and newspapers trailed with 24%. Frederico Berrueto Pruneta, general manager of GCE, asserts that, “What we are seeing is a very clear tendency where the Internet has won the battle over television, which had already won against newspapers”.

Original: www. geo-mexico.com

community what it has to do to keep this issue from growing, to stop the threat of more decades of violence,” said Gaviria in an interview for Milenio TV. He believes that state controls on certain substances, such as alcohol and tobacco, are effective but any kind of prohibition is doomed to fail and only contributes to crime and corruption.

Dreifuss feels the Supreme Court’s decision should compel the Mexican government to “propose concrete solutions,” even if the strongest reaction in the country towards the issue of

drug consumption and trafficking is still “one of violent confrontation and resistance to drug cartels.”

The Global Commission on Drug Policy is an assembly of 22 world leaders and intellectuals that seeks to direct and guide the international discussion on drugs, prioritizing the analysis of scientific data and the pursuit of effective solutions to ameliorate the damage that drugs cause among individuals and their societies.

honey production and over 15,000 Maya farm families at risk, as “growing the plant requires the use of glyphosate, a herbicide classified as probably carcinogenic.”

For its part, the United States-based Monsanto rejected the claim that GM-soybeans affected in any manner bees or honey production anywhere in Mexico, or that it contributed to deforestation in the state of Campeche, which has also been claimed.

“We do not accept the

accusations that make us responsible for deforestation and illegal lumbering in the municipality of Hopelchén, Campeche, or any other part of the country, as we abide strictly by local regulations,” said the corporation in a press release.

According to Monsanto data, 44,000 hectares of soy were farmed during the most recent cycle in the Yucatán peninsula, and 13,000 of those originated from Monsanto seeds.

Original: Mexico News Daily

Original: Mexico News Daily

news

08

Nov 12 - 18, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Mexico Consolidates Position as Top 10 Global Tourist Destination

M

exico received 21.2 million tourists in the first eight months of the year, further consolidating its position as one of the world’s top 10 global tourist destinations, President Enrique Peña Nieto said.

“Mexico ranked once again as one of the world’s 10 leading tourist destinations,” the president

said during the inauguration of a highway linking the cities of San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas, which are major tourist spots at the southern tip of the northwestern state of Baja California Sur. The country received 8.4 percent more visitors between January and August than in the same eight-month period of 2014,

Peña Nieto said, adding that the total number of tourist arrivals for the year will top 30 million if that trend continues.

Mexico offers a diverse range of options for tourists, including beach destinations, cultural attractions and adventure travel alternatives, the president said.

LAHT.com

Crippled ship readied for scuttling in Jalisco

V

essels from Panama have arrived to remove ship's fuel A tugboat and barge from Panama arrived yesterday at the port of Manzanillo to clear customs in preparation for removing fuel from a freighter crippled last month by Hurricane Patricia.

The vessels from Panama will assist in the transfer of 489,000 liters of diesel and about 11,000 liters of oil from the bulk carrier Los Llanitos, which went aground October 23 at Punta Graham, near Barra de Navidad, Jalisco, about 43 kilometers northwest of Manzanillo.

The 223-meter-long, Mexican-flagged bulk carrier has been

deemed beyond repair and will be scuttled.

A helicopter and barge were on the scene this week, removing hazardous materials such as solvents, paint and batteries from the ship.

Personnel from Profepa, the environmental protection agency, are on hand to monitor the process.

They say there has been no sign of fuel leaking from the ship but containment booms are in place to prevent contamination.

The transfer of fuel from the ship was expected to take place over the weekend.

Original: Mexico News Daily

news

09

Nov 12 - 18, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

2015 WTM London a Standout Event Remittances to Mexico Rise 5.86% in First 9 T Months of 2015 he 2015 London World Market (WTM), which took place from November 2-5, highlighted the year of Mexico in the UK, with both the Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta present in the Mexico Pavilion.

Over 20 business meetings took place for both destinations with tourism companies from England, which is the leader in Emerging Markets, positioning itself in fourth place among the countries of origin for tourists to the Vallarta-Nayarit behind Mexico, the United States and Canada. The Mexico Tourism Board engaged advertising on taxis, banners, bus stops, buses, public plazas, metro stations and Heathrow Airport to promote the country’s destinations. The images that attracted the most attention were those of Playa Escondida and the Islas Marietas.

During the event, Huichol Art was represented by Nayarit artisan Cilau Valadez, whose work was very popular, so much so that it appeared on the cover of the WTM Magazine, which is published daily

R

during the event to highlight the best of what’s happening.

The direct flights from Manchester and London with Tui-Thompson have triggered this market, which is why Tour Operator Tui is keenly interested in continuing to work with the Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta.

The WTM is one of the top tourism industry events worldwide

as it welcomes all of the sectors that are intimately involved with the travel business.

Over 50 thousand top-level tourism professionals, 3,000 international media representatives, 186 countries, 5,000 exhibitors and government authorities were all present at the event. It’s estimated this year’s expo generated over $2.5 billion euros in contracts.

emittances sent to Mexico by emigrants totaled $18.62 billion in the first nine months of 2015, up 5.86 percent compared to the same period last year, when remittances totaled $17.59 billion, the Bank of Mexico said Tuesday.

The average remittance was $295 in the January-September period, up slightly from the $294 average registered in the same period last year, the central bank said.

The number of transactions during the period totaled 63.07 million, with the majority of remittances sent via electronic funds transfers, the central bank said in a statement.

Mexico received $23.64 billion in remittances in 2014, a figure that was up 9.6 percent compared to 2013.

Remittances sent by Mexicans living abroad, mainly in the United States, are the country’s second-largest source of foreign exchange, after oil, and help cover the living expenses of millions of people.

LAHT.com

local

10

Vallarta Welcomes New Medical Centre

By Brenda Beltran

S

tarting Monday a new private hospital, Vallarta Medical Centre, will begin offering an emergency department open 24-7, internal medicine, intensive care, orthopedics, gynecology and obstetrics, general surgery and pediatrics, also technology Latest generation imaging for hemodynamics, MRI, spiral CT 64 c, mammography and ultrasound 4D. Luis Antonio Michel Ruelas, a partner of the hospital, said that this project is several years in planning and will be one of the best hospitals in the city for both tourists and locals, as they have the best technology and offer competitive services.

Located at 136 Avenida Los Tules in the old Corners-

tone Hospital across from Plaza Caracol, Vallarta Medical Centre will have six doctors on staff and sixteen bilingual nurses as well as sixteen rooms; four master suites fully equipped and decorated, eight

junior suites, four standard regular rooms. The hospital administration is also working towards certification with Joint Commission International, an important and distinguished designation.

Meet Artists at the Free Malecon Tour Weekly

T

uesday, November 17th, will mark the official beginning of the tenth season of the Free Malecon Sculpture Tour that is sponsored by Galeria Pacifico and led by its owner, Gary Thompson.

They will continue every Tuesday morning at 9:30 through the middle of April. No reservations are required and one must only show by 9:30 at the "Millennium" sculpture next to the Hotel Rosita at the north end of the Malecon ocean promenade.

The tour starts with the artist Mathis Lidice explaining the symbols included in the "Millen-

nium" installation and the story behind its creation. Thompson then talks about each sculpture as the group walks south on the Malecon, while Kevin Simpson of Collectika and Peyote People galleries explains the numerous symbols in relief in the pavement that relate to the belief system of the indigenous Huichol people who live in the Sierra Madre mountains northeast of Vallarta. The tour takes about two hours, but Thompson looks for seating in the shade at each sculpture whenever possible. The tour ends at Galeria Pacifico´s location at 174 Aldama Street

where free beverages are provided and on most weeks the artist Jim Demetro is present to talk about his sculptures in PV, which include the "Dancers of Vallarta," "Woman Washing Clothes," and the burro sculpture in Lazaro Cardenas Park, "Andale Bernardo."

A representative of Vallarta’s public library is also present to accept no pressure donations, since the Biblioteca Los Mangos receives only tiny fraction of its budget from the government.

More information on the tour may be found at GaleriaPacifico. com or by calling at 322 222 1982.

Nov 12 - 18, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

local

11

Nov 12 - 18, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Mexico’s indigenous folk art in Chapala this weekend

Paradise

and Parenting

By Madeline Milne

T

Some of the art types found include: Alebrijes: Mystical and wonderful wooden carvings with elaborate painting from Oaxaca.

Ceramics: From Oaxaca you will find intricately beautiful barro negro (black clay) figures. From Jalisco, intricate ceramic virgins and other ceramic pieces and from Michoacán famed devil figures

Leza Warkentin

mommyinmexico.wordpress.com

Don’t Miss A Thing

Photos courtesy of Barbara Nettleton

he annual Feria Maestros del Arte celebrates its 14th year this weekend in Chapala, Jalisco. This exceptional gathering of some of Mexico’s most talented artisans is the event to experience the huge variety of folk and indigenous art found in this country, produced and for sale by many of the leading artisans.

The theme this year is based on ‘Mexican Fashion throughout the Ages’ and will likely feature some truly stunning weavings and embroidery.

The Feria Exposición Maestros del Arte AC Inc. is non-profit in both Mexico and the US. Held yearly at Lake Chapala, Jalisco, Mexico, this art show promotes the rapidly disappearing folk and indigenous art (artensania) of Mexico. Artists are invited from all corners of Mexico based on the following criteria: • Quality of their work, • Has their art been passed down generation to generation, • Does the artist use "natural" pigments/materials as was done in the past, or • Are they an "undiscovered" artist who is worthy of recognition for his/ her work.

• All of the art is made totally by the artist.

from Ocumicho. Other ceramics will include Trees of Life, Catrinas, Pinapples and more.

Clothing and Textiles: From Michoacán Award-winning Purépecha black with light-blue stripes and often feathers and/or beads in the fringe rebozos. From Chiapas embroidered blouses and guayaberas (type of man's shirt). Also from Chiapas back-strap weaving and brocading and from Oaxaca silk embroidered Mexican wedding dresses and more.

Furniture: From Michoacán furniture, lamps, all types of items

T

made from the natural reed called chuspata and from Jalisco a cooperative of families in Zacoalco de Torres working together making incredible equipales or the leather and wooden slat furniture popular in Jalisco.

Laca Maque: Florencia Espinal Ramírez from Guerrero is displaying her beautiful lacquerware (mirrors, boxes, gourds, animals and much more) Paper: From papier maché to handmade amate paper there are a number of artisans showcasing their work.

Tarahumara: From Chihuahua various artwork made by the very interesting indigenous Tarahumara people of Chihuahua.

Weavings: here you will find the most gorgeous handwoven rugs out of Oaxaca. Truly treasures you will keep for life.

If you can’t attend this year’s festival, plan for next year, it’s a wonderful introduction to the varied cultures within this great nation.

Arriving early on Friday morning will give you the best selection and prices. For more information on the artists and the event visit: www. mexicoartshow.com

he other day I overheard my daughter looking at some of our old video clips we had posted to YouTube. I went over to see what she was watching. It was a clip, about six years old, of her and her brother performing some magic tricks I had practiced with them when they went through their Harry Potter obsession.

None of the tricks quite worked out: they forgot to wave their magic wands, there were hissed instructions from behind the camera, and there was an impromptu dance from one of the magicians to the soundtrack from The Sorcerer’s Apprentice. It was gorgeous.

I’m pretty sure that my daughter now regrets digging out the clip.

Perhaps you have seen a movie where the lead actor sits for days in front of the screen in unwashed, rumpled pajamas, watching old home movies of her children, nostalgic tears dripping off her chin, soft, violin-heavy music in the background.

Picture that scenario except that the movie makeup is most definitely absent and I prefer my faded drawstring cargo shorts that I’m not allowed to wear out of the house. Every once in awhile I’d call a family member over without removing my eyes from the scene of a happy family paddle-boating on the pond in Chapultepec Forest.

One of them would sigh and slump over to me to make polite, chuckling noises over the cuteness and the happiness in hopes that I might leave them alone.

If you are a parent, I am sure you understand the monkey on my back. I was watching another version of my family, and I dissected it all to try to find hints of the family I had now. Here are some things I noticed: 1) I took my size six body completely for granted. It was like it was NO BIG DEAL. In other words, I was a jerk.

2) My son’s clips were all portrayals of his interests at the time: magic, wrestling, Kick Buttowski,

dinosaurs, Kung Fu Panda, etc.

3) My daughter’s clips were all portrayals of her inability to keep herself from singing and dancing at all times.

4) I have never considered a neat house to be more important than recording my kids doing something cute.

5) My husband is the kind of man who will color with the kids, put on a wrestler’s mask and take a beat down, film his wife reading a book for ten minutes. He really has always been this awesome.

6) I might consider finally organizing our family photos. Or not.

As I watched, I felt this ache growing inside me. Instead of redirecting me to more productive activities, like laundry, this mouse-like nibble on my heart just pushed me to click on the next video.

There was my son, following me around the playground, explaining something about dinosaur behavior. There was my daughter, singing “furry Christmas, furry fast” because that’s what the lyrics should be for an Alvin and the Chipmunks song.

And the whole time I watched, my eyes never left my younger (thinner) face. I wondered, did I know what I had? Did I appreciate just how beautiful these little creatures were? Was I really listening to them? Or was I just waiting for them to grow up so I could actually get a full night’s sleep?

At the end of the day, I decided to give myself a break. From the time I became a mother, I parented according to the advice of several truly wise mothers in my life: Your time as the center of their universe will not last. Live in that moment.

Don’t let it pass you by because you are tired/stressed out/scraping play dough off the couch cushions.

I watched one more video, because my baby was using her three-year-old Spanish to describe something as MUY MUY GLANDE and not watching that wasn’t even possible. But then I shut it down, because we still have a whole lot of moments left, and I wouldn’t miss a thing.

Advertise your business here!

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

riviera nayarit

14

Nov 12 - 18, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Fun on the Riviera Nayarit

By Cat Morgan www.rivieranayaritfun.com Cat@RivieraNayaritFun.com

H

ola a todos! When the high season starts rolling it almost feels like the start of a horse race! “And they’re off!”

Everything really moves into high gear! Thanksgiving is upon us and Christmas is just around the corner. There are several choices for going out for a Thanksgiving dinner. For a few options in Bucerias check out Esquina 22 Bar and Lounge for a traditional dinner or Mark’s Bar and Grill for a traditional as well as several other amazing options! In La Cruz, Masala Bar and Grill offers an amazing holiday feast, and Chef Winfried at the Black Forest Restaurant is serving a traditional holiday dinner. It’s best to make your reservations as far in advance as possible so the chef’s know how much turkey to order and prepare. After all, the juicy succulent turkey we all love takes all day to cook! The early arrivals and year around folks on the Banderas Bay have the pleasure two Thanksgiving dinners every season; Canadian Thanksgiving in October and the American Thanksgiving holiday on Thursday, November 26th.

Argentinean Tango in La Cruz In case you have not yet heard…. an amazing exhibition of Argentinean Tango will be taking place at Xocolatl by Roberto’s in La Cruz.

This event is happening Thursday, November 12th. There is no cover charge. Enjoy the presentation by

Miriam Krashnan from Mexico City and Froyamel Corro from Moriela, who are both classically trained in ballet and modern dance. Their passion for Argentine Tango shows as they were also the semi finalists at the World Tango Festival in Buenos Aries 2014 and 2015.

After the show, you will be invited to a Milonga, (social dancing to the music of Argentine Tango and more!) to dance or to learn a few steps; why not give it a try? We are so lucky to have them performing in La Cruz for this free event! It’s the perfect location with plenty of room and the best view in La Cruz of the La Cruz Marina and bay. Reservations are highly recommended so please call: Call Roberto’s at 329-295-6080.

The Children Beach Vendors

Some of these beach vendor children start at age 6 selling gum and other small objects. These children should be in school. These children deserve a chance in life. From the first day I came here to Mexico, I vowed to never buy anything from a child. It felt wrong to me to have a child working at such a young age.

I always ask them why they are not in school. At that time, I did not see or realize yet where this path was leading them in life. In a conversation with a local restaurant owner he said has watched one of the beach vendor’s start selling Chicklets when she was 6 years old.

She is not even 18 yet and has one child with another one on the way.

In part due to lack of an education

and opportunities, these girls often resort to prostitution and drugs. It’s all they know and is “easy money” to them. They carry a lack of self esteem, and it feels like they are in a place they can do nothing about.

It’s a big hole. They then pass this life down to their children; and it becomes an endless cycle.

So, what can we do to help change this poverty and lifestyle and help give these kids and adults a chance for something better? One obvious solution is not to purchase from children beach vendors. Another option is to support nonprofit work programs.

One of the work programs in the area is run by the nonprofit organization Peace Punta de Mita. Their education program called “AVANZA,” which means to advance or to get ahead, is a two-year program focused on children who, for a variety of reasons, are not enrolled in the public school system. The goal is to integrate or re-integrate these children into public school system and to support their journey towards becoming responsible, stable, contributing and successful members of society. PPM does this by providing a supportive learning environ-

ment that not only addresses the academic curriculum that raises skills to appropriate levels, but also on developing study habits, social behavior and meaningful life skills.

You may contact them on their website at http://peacepuntademita.org/en/community-programs/ education-alternative-school/.

Another work training program for adults is offered through the Association Restaurantera Riviera Nayarit. http://www.asociacionrrn. com/es/. The certified program can help to create a better life for themselves and their families; creating

Riviera Nayarit Celebrates December T he Groups and Events department of the Riviera Nayarit Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) organizes more than 70 events throughout the year in order to diversify the Destination’s offerings. December is no exception; read on for some of the coolest events around to bid

farewell to the closing year.

Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe (December 1 – 12) Our Lady of Guadalupe is the patron saint of Mexico and every one of the Riviera Nayarit’s microdestinations venerates the Virgen Morena from the start of the month through December 12th, her

birthday. Those days the coastal villages of Nayarit are brimming with joy and celebrating with pilgrimages, traditional religious festivities and popular verbenas.

3rd Taste of Nuevo Vallarta and 15th Chili Cook-Off (December 5) These two events take place in

the Vallarta Yacht Club in Nuevo Vallarta, both showcasing the culinary pleasures of the Riviera Nayarit. On Saturday, December 5th in the afternoon attendees will be able to sample all kinds of dishes and cooking styles. Both events are fundraisers for the Families of the Dump charity.

self esteem, which in turn creates a healthier sense of being and over all mental health. These energies can then than be passed on to their children.

Please help to change the old patterns. Don’t purchase products from children. Find out more how you can support these nonprofit organizations .

Thanks so much for tuning in this week. See you around the beautiful Banderas Bay! If you have any questions or comments please contact me at Cat@RivieraNayaritFun.com

26th Anniversary of Banderas Bay (December 11) Banderas Bay celebrates its founding as a municipality with all kinds of events civic, sports, artistic and cultural to commemorate the history of this beautiful seaside town in the Riviera Nayarit.

riviera nayarit

15

Nov 12 - 18, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

The humpbacks return

I

n the past few week’s sightings of the returning humpback whales have been spotted around Banderas Bay and further south in Costealegre. Official whale watching season hasn’t begun but in the coming weeks visitors and residents lucky enough to have an ocean view will start to see their aerobic displays in the Bay. The Puerto Vallarta Humpback Whales return from their summer feeding grounds along the Pacific coast (from California to Alaska) to the Sea of Cortez beginning in November of every year. By the start of the official Puerto Vallarta whale watching season, December 8th, the population of Humpback whales in the Bay of Banderas in Puerto Vallarta all but guarantees multiple whale encounters on every tour.

Humpback whales are a cosmopolitan species, found in most of the world’s oceans. In the north Pacific, the population has made an impressive comeback in the past 40 years.

Humpback whales were heavily targeted by commercial whaling in the north Pacific until 1966; by the end of this harvest, there may have been as few as 1400 humpbacks left. However, a recent study ‘SPLASH’ (Structure of Populations, Levels of Abundance and Status of Humpbacks) now estimates this population has rebounded to 18,000-20,000.

The north Pacific population of humpback whales makes long distance migrations. They range from winter breeding grounds in southern latitudes (Hawaii, Mexico, and Southern Asia) to northern feeding areas from California to Alaska and Russia where they spend the summer months. Humpbacks show great fidelity to their feeding areas and British Columbia is split into two separate regions.

The southeast Alaska/northern British Columbia region is estimated to have a population of 3,000-5,000 whales, while the southern BC/ Washington population is approxi-

XXII Baja Ha-Ha / 4th Sailors’ Splash (December 11) For the fourth year in a row the Destination will host the Riviera Nayarit Sailors’ Splash 2015, a nautical rally that coincidentally takes place on the XXII anniversary of the Baja Ha-Ha. Between 120 and 150 boats will be arriving

mately 200-400 whales. There also appears to be a correlation between feeding and breeding grounds.

The majority of humpback whales feeding in northern BC appear to be wintering in Hawaii. The southern BC whales have animals that have been re-sighted off mainland Mexico, as well as Hawaii.

Breeding in humpbacks whales is very seasonal, occurring in the winter in tropical/sub-tropical areas.

In these areas, males sing long, complex songs. The songs are specific to breeding areas and seem to evolve from year to year. These songs are likely used to attract females, though they may also be used in social ordering and competition among males. The gestation is approximately 11 months, calves being born between December and April in the north Pacific.

A calf will spend about one year with its mother before becoming independent. Females typically have a calf every 2-3 years, though annual breeding is not unheard of. Besides the mother-calf pairs, humpback whales are not known to have long-term social bonds. In the North Atlantic, both sexes reach sexual maturity around 5 years, but it is unclear whether this is true for the north Pacific population.

The lifespan of the humpback whale is still unknown, though it is believed to be at least 48 years.

Humpback whales are identified by the underside and trailing edge of their tail flukes; each one is different just like a fingerprint. Of all the baleen whales, humpbacks are most likely to engage in surface activities

at the Marina Riviera Nayarit in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle for this impressive show of sails.

10th Sinergiarte Festival (December 12-20) The Colectivo San Pancho organizes this grand artistic and cultural festival around a theme

such as breaching and slapping their tail flukes and pectoral fins.

These behaviours most likely have many different meanings under different contexts.

The social organization of the Humpback Whale is characterized by small unstable groups, and individuals typically associate with many companions on both feeding and breeding grounds. Males typically stay longer on breeding grounds than females.

Their aim is to try to mate with several females during a season if possible. Pregnant females spend less time in the mating grounds, preferring to return quickly to feeding grounds to accumulate as much blubber as possible to be able to care for their calf.

Although both male and female Humpback Whales do vocalize, the male is especially well recognized for its long and complex songs.

The songs are believed to be primarily a method of attracting a suitable mate. Songs can be up to 20 minutes long and Whales sing the same song in a given population, which changes over time.

Humpback Whales are also known for their acrobatic behavior.

During a Whale watching tour in Puerto Vallarta it is common to see an array of behaviors. This makes for a wonderful experience and creates amazing photo opportunities. We often see tail slaps, head lunges, spy hopping and the amazing Humpback launching itself from the ocean in a full breach.

Source: wildwhales.org whalewatchvallarta.com

that changes from year to year.

During its 10th anniversary the topic is the “Multicultural Community.” Come enjoy this Cultural Week filled with activities starting on December 12th and ending with stage shows on the 18th, 19th and 20th of the month.

The sea turtles are crucial but sadly they are endangered

L

aying of Eggs. We have had the joy and pleasure to attend one night, with volunteers of the turtle camp (redtortuguera.org) of Puerto Vallarta (Jalisco, Mexico), the laying of eggs from a sea turtle.

We have gone with two volunteers of the camp and have patrolled the beach around midnight to see if a turtle would come to lay her eggs. At 1am we have had the immense pleasure of seeing a turtle laying her eggs, close the hole and go back to the ocean. This is a moment that can last for hours, we have to be especially quiet and very calm. This experience of seeing this mother turtle lay her eggs was memorable, fantastic, fabulous.

Without noise and without light, we softly caressed her shell and wished her luck for her future in the ocean. This moment was magic and unforgettable.

Diego, the volunteer “expert” of the turtle camp showed us how to find the eggs. With the help of a wood stick he pierces in the sand to feel where the mother laid her eggs. He pierced two, three places and finally found them. We dug to retrieve the eggs, there were 107 of them! It was in the same time incredibly moving, touching and marvelous. We had in our hands sea turtle eggs. They were so fragile that we barely dared touching them.

We brought them back to the camp in a plastic bag then dug a hole in the sand and carefully put them inside. We wrote the date and number of eggs found on a little wood stick that we planted where we had put the eggs.

The incubations lasts about 2 months so we were also able to participate in the release of the baby turtle to the ocean.

RELEASING THE BABY TURTLES TO THE OCEAN This time, we went to the turtle camp of Sayulita. The liberation happens around 8pm before the sunset (the new born instinctively go in the direction of the ocean thanks to the light of the sun).

There is no word to describe how these little turtles are beautiful and moving. It was marvelous, moving, magnificent, touching, overwhelming. They are so small, so fragile and so beautiful. We put a little bit of sand in our hands and brought them close to the ocean. They all headed (in their own rhythm) to the ocean. It’s unbelievable and we were asking ourselves what could happen next, when they are in the ocean.

These camps exist all over the world (Malaysia, Mexico etc.) to protect the eggs and babys from predators (birds, human).

It was an heart-rending moment and so appealing. We wished happiness to these babies and sent all our positive energy.

A GREAT THANK YOU We have been moved, happy and lucky to witness the laying of eggs and the release of the new born to the ocean.

These volunteers are unbelievable and fight to protect the sea turtles. Their work is remarkable and luckily they are here to preserve the magnificent turtles. Thank you to Diego and all the other volunteers around the world.

Unique experience that once again makes us realize even more how our planet is a jewel and how nature is unique.

LET’S PROTECT OUR PLANET Original: www.travelandroll.com/ sea-turtles/

real estate

16

Nov 12 - 18, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Ask a Realtor

By Michael Green, Boardwalk Realty Q: Can a USA or Canadian citizen own real estate in Puerto Vallarta?

Peter H. Seattle A: Hi Peter, you sure can, by placing the property in a bank trust, or “Fideicomiso”. Title of the property is transferred to a trust with a Mexican bank acting as Trustee. The Trust Agreement is formalized by the issuance of a permit from the Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs. There are three parties to the trust: The seller of the property is the Trustor, the bank is the Trustee (Fiduciario), and the buyer is the Beneficiary (Fideicomisario.)

The buyer is designated as Beneficiary in the Trust and the beneficiary rights are recorded in the public record by a Notary Public. The Trust is currently for a term of 50 years and can be renewed for additional 50 year terms.

Many people have the mistaken belief that the trust is similar to renting, or a lease, this is NOT the case!

The bank holds the property in trust and follows your instructions.

The property is NOT an asset of the bank, it is your asset and the trust is for perpetuity.

As Beneficiary, you have the same rights, use and enjoyment as a Mexican National, and can sell or rent your property without restriction, and keep the proceeds.

You may also transfer your rights to a third party or pass it on to named heirs.

The bank charges the person desiring the Fideicomiso an initial fee of approximately $500 USD for signing the agreement and establishing the Trust and a yearly fee of approximately $460 USD per year for administering the trust.

You are free to choose which

bank you prefer to hold your bank trust.

Your local AMPI Realtor will be able to coordinate all the paperwork involved in this process.

You will just need to provide photo identification, and fill out a very basic bank form with your personal information and instructions on how you wish to hold the property and who you want to pass it to in the event of your death.

I recommend using a bank that will lock in the administra-

tion fee, and has a local English speaking representative. You can also request a clause be added to your trust allowing you to attend and vote at the Homeowners meetings without getting a proxy every year from the bank.

Some people complain about the trust process, but there are benefits: As part of the closing process, the bank’s attorneys review the deed and are able to sign on your behalf. It is always nice to have another set of trained eyes review your deed before signature.

Also, the trust separates the asset legally, much in the way a “living trust” does in the United States.

Finally, in the event of the death of the buyer (beneficiary), the property automatically reverts to the substitute beneficiaries, avoiding lengthy and costly probate procedures.

At some point, the law requiring a trust may be amended, allowing foreigners to own directly in their names and doing away with the trust.

Last year, this bill passed in the Mexican House of Representatives and was sidetracked in the Senate.

Do you have a question about Real Estate in Puerto Vallarta? Just ask!

Michael Green is the Co-Broker of Boardwalk Realty. Active in local and national Real Estate boards; published author and acknowledged expert on Puerto Vallarta Real Estate, Mike moved here in 1997 to take advantage of the unsurpassed lifestyle PV offers. Email Mike at: tribune@ boardwalkrealtypv.com

real estate

17

The New World of Automatic Financial Account Data Exchange

A word on Vallarta’s Real Estate Market

By Brock Squire

P

robably the big news is that for the first time in the past five years (and probably a few years beyond that as MLS/FLEX stats only start in 2010) the Absorption Rate for condominiums in the Bay of Banderas area has dropped below 30 months to 28.8 months. (The Absorption Rate is the length of time that it would take for the current supply of units currently on the market to be sold given current rate of sales velocity). This is also significant in that it has been declining almost in a straight line since October of last year when it was 42.5 months.

This amounts to a real decline of 32%!

At the same time, the number of condominium sales is up so far this year by 16%, not surprisingly. Also, the average condominium sale price is down slightly from about $315K to $295K year to date vs same dates 2014, which tells us that our market is very price sensitive and those people who are being realistic about their selling prices are getting their units sold! In addition, the total number of condominium units on the market has declined by about 10% to 818 units.

We see all this as good news for the future as we are seeing some very encouraging trends in these numbers. Sales are up, inventory is coming down and so are prices – all leading towards a much more normalized market-place with greater security and predictability for both buyers and sellers. Judging from the amount of activity in each of our three offices around the Bay it looks like there are a lot of other people that agree!

About Brock: A lifelong entrepreneur, launched the first Coldwell Banker office in Mexico as La Costa Realty in 1998 expanding to Punta Mita and throughout the Bay with three offices and 28 professionally trained Sales Associates.

Nov 12 - 18, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

by Orlando Gotay, Tax Attorney

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.

E

arlier this month, the SAT (Mexican IRS) chief announced that Mexico has begun receiving information on U.S. bank accounts held by residents of Mexico with interest paid greater than $10.

This information helps determine how many Mexicans have accounts in the United States, types and amounts of income and the banks where the accounts are held.

Mr. Mexican IRS also disclosed that Mexico has provided information to the U.S. Treasury on U.S. persons. According to the agreement, reported bank accounts include those with a balance of $50,000 or over as of Dec. 31, 2013.

The information exchange will be automatic hereafter.

While Mr. Mexican IRS referred to accounts held by “American residents” in Mexico, the agreement fine print reveals it is far broader in scope. Reportable accounts have any of a number of “U.S. indicia”: U.S. citizenship, U.S. place of birth; U.S. mailing address or phone numbers, and other indications of being a “U.S. person” such as standing instructions to transfer money to stateside accounts.

Mexico reports not just personal accounts. It is required to report information of Mexico business entities that have “U.S. Persons” as “controlling persons”.

So if a Mexican business has U.S. persons with authority over financial accounts, those accounts are reportable to the U.S. Treasury too.

What is Mexico required to report? Name, tax ID number, address, bank name, account number, and average monthly balance of the reported account.

Later on, Mexico will also report interest and gross proceeds from the sale of assets credited to the

account (such as sales of securities) held in custodial accounts.

Mexico will cross-reference with its own databases in an effort to detect those who have U.S. assets or income that should have been reported to Mexico but wasn’t.

The U.S. will match information in a similar way. U.S. persons that meet thresholds were already required to file information returns, ‘Foreign Bank Account Reports’ and ‘Forms 8938’ to declare “specified foreign financial assets”.

The good news about all this automated reporting? Deep in the bowels of the Mexico-U.S. agreement, “a fideicomiso the assets of which consist solely of real property” is not reportable by Mexican authorities to the U.S. But if your Mexican fideicomiso does not meet IRS requirements, it is

reportable by you on your federal tax return as a “foreign trust” anyway.

The U.S. Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FATCA) has turned tax reporting for U.S. persons a high stakes game and it is already making it so for persons of other nationalities.

now open for dinner Enjoy Live Mariachi All Week except Saturdays

Diners familiar with Hacienda San Angel's stunning views, outstanding cuisine and topnotch service will feel right at home at The Iguana, the new Mexican specialty restaurant at the new Casa Kimberly Hotel; the former homes of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton that have recently undergone a meticulously luxurious renovation.

Reservations only - 322 222 1336 Open for dinner 6-11 pm Zaragoza 445, El Centro, Puerto Vallarta www.casakimberly.com

Events

18

Events Around the Bay If you have an event you would like to publicize, please email editor@ vallartatribune.com.

November 12 5:30-9pm In support of the Navy League and American Legion All you can eat buffet dinner ($500pesos) at Coco Tropical and happy hour bar drinks at 50% off.

Tix at the event or Steve’s Sports Bar, Carol’s Boutique or from any member of the Navy League or American Legion.

November 14 Vallarta Botanical Gardens 10th Anniversary A weekend filled with events in celebration of the 10th Anniversary of the award winning botanical gardens.

November 14 Democrats Abroad Debate Night 7:30pm at Luna Azul, Lazaro Cardenas 308 November 16-22 Puerto Vallarta Gourmet Festival Celebrating 21 years. Specially priced menus. Visiting chefs. One week of culinary adventure. www. festivalgourmet.com November 17th IFC Home Tours These fabulous tours that are rated “Excellent” by most reviewers on Trip Advisor start again on Tuesday 17th and Wednesday 18th and will continue throughout the season. The tours leave at 10:30 from the Sea Monkey (next to the beach at Aquilles Serdan) and cost $500 pesos.

November 19 Vallarta Garden Club welcome back party and membership kickoff. See page 21 for more details.

November 20-21 RisingHop Vallarta Festival 2015 - An event to enjoy craft beer Craft Beer + Food + Local products + Live Music + Ludoteca 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 pm at Puerto de Luna All Suites Hotel November 20-22 10th annual i Madonnari Chalk Art Festival & Contest will begin at 9am in the Municipal Plaza, and continue until Sunday, November 22 at 7 pm.

November 26th Traditional Thanksgiving Dinner - Children With Cancer Fundraiser Le Bistro Jazz Café starting at 4pm $43usd includes dinner, music, wine and more!

December 1 Corazon de Nina kicks off their Humanitarian Tours with guest chefs from Vista Grill and La Palapa preparing brunch with the children.

Please visit our website for more information www. fundacioncorazon.mx or call 224-9209 for reservations.

December 4 Breakfast Fundraiser in support of CorazondeNina at LaPalapa Restaurant.

Tickets available at Carol's Boutique, Basillo Badillo #250, Zona Romantica #250, 322/113-0073 or Salsa Salon & Boutique, Paseo de la Marina #165, 322/2213256.

December 4 Fundraiser for Pasitos de Luz, Casa Connor – The Life, Masterpieces and Humanity of FRIDA KAHLO At the Sheraton Bugambilias 6-10pm $900 pesos includes dinner, show and live music.

November 28 SPCA de PV fundraiser At the remodeled Casa Kimberly, former home of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. Tickets are $120 US or 1950 pesos. Contact Janice@ Haciendasanangel.com to get your ticket.

December 5 10TH ANNUAL PET PICNIC at Daiquiri Dick's Fundraiser in support of PeaceAnimals from 11am - 1pm $350pesos at the door.

Thursday, December 17 In support of the Vallarta Garden Club, kick off the Christmas Holiday Season at the Botanical Gardens with a sing-along featuring talented Puerto Vallarta musician Bob Bruneau.

More details to come.

Nov 12 - 18, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Lauren Bacall -Never to be forgotten

By Fred Jacobs

S

he was born Betty Joan Perske in the Bronx part of uptown New York City. Her parents were middle class and divorced when she was just five years old. Through her fathers’ side of the family, Lauren was reportedly the cousin to Israel’s ninth president, Simon Peres.

After her parents’ divorce, Lauren moved with her mother to Greenwich Village and eventually took the maternal family name Bacall.

Supported by wealthy uncles, Lauren attended various prestigious private schools.

She originally wanted to become a model and was on the cover of Harper’s Bazaar. In 1941, Lauren attended the Academy of Arts in Manhattan to improve her deep voice and take acting classes. At the academy, she was a classmate of Kirk Douglas.

At the young age of 17, her figure and voice were outstanding.

She made her Broadway debut in 1942 and was also crowned Miss Greenwich Village the same year.

The wife of a Hollywood producer, saw the Harper’s cover and urged her husband to give Lauren a screen test for his upcoming movie “To Have and Have not.” She landed the role and in 1944 became the costar to Humphrey Bogart. It was a breakthrough for both of them.

Her original role in the movie was much smaller, but during filming, her role was expanded several times to where she had a true leading role. Several weeks into filming, the chemistry between Bogart and Bacall were very evident on and off the screen. Bogart who was married at the time, could not resist.

Bogart ended up leaving his wife and married Bacall in 1945. They had two children together and were happily married right up to Bogart’s death in 1957. The couple made two more movies quickly- “Dark Passage” (1947) and “Key Largo” (1948).

In the late 40’s and early 50’s, she made several other movies with the likes of Charles Boyer, Gary Cooper, Doris Day and even her old classmate, Kirk Douglas. In 1953, she also costarred with Marilyn Monroe and Betty Grable in “How to Marry a Millionaire”.

She eventually remarried in 1961 to fellow actor Jason Robards.

She bought an apartment for the newlyweds to live in at the posh The Dakota residence in NY. This

was the same building where John Lennon would later live in and tragically was murdered at. Her and Robards had one child together, but divorced in 1969 as a result of his alcohol abuse.

To mention every film she appeared in, would be impossible here. A few of the real special ones would be “Sex and the Single Girl” (1964) with Henry Fonda, Tony Curtis and Natalie Woods. “Murder on the Orient Express” (1974) with Ingrid Bergman, Albert Finney, Vanessa Redgrave, Martin Balsam, and Sean Connery. In 1976 “The Schootist” with John Wayne (his last movie). Lauren’s last major movie was ”The Mirror has Two Faces” with Barbara Streisand as the director and costar in 1996 for which she finally won an Oscar.

Lauren had been very active in US democratic politics. She campaigned For Bobby Kennedy in 1964 in his run for the US Senate.

She always invested wisely and had plenty to support her charities.

She had a long productive life.

The first part of her career she lived in the shadow of Bogart but then for many years she really was a star in her own right.

She was a great performer even in her old age. She passed away in August 2014, just five weeks before her 90th birthday, from a stroke.

She left an estate of $26.6 million to her three children and four grandchildren, but left a wealth of screen work to the rest of us.

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

entertainment

19

The Palm opens for its 16th season

T XXI International Gourmet Festival Puerto Vallarta-Riviera Nayarit-Tepic

F

orty-six guest chefs from Mexico and abroad, 22 hotels and restaurants, seven theme nights and much more will all be a part of this high-end culinary extravaganza.

In a recent press conference, Chefs Thierry Blouet, Heinz Reize and Roland Menetrey, also known as “The Three Musqueteers,” along with several tourism authorities, announced the details of the XXI International Gourmet Festival (IGF) to be held from November 16-22, 2015.

The IGF has been positioning the region at the height of international gastronomic circles for the past 21 years; inviting renowned chefs from around the globe to share their experiences, their knowledge and their creations within the participating hotels and restaurants.

This years event will feature 46 guest chefs from Mexico and abroad, 22 participating hotels and restaurants, seven theme nights,

Nov 12 - 18, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

pairing workshops, wine tastings, parties, demos, chats and much more. You can find details at www. festivalgourmet.com With very high standards, this festival has now become a culinary event that’s recognized on the world stage. During the conference, Fernando González Ortega, President of the Hotel and Motel Association of the Riviera Nayarit, pointed out that this year’s new additions would make an impact on the attendees.

He also said the global reach of the IGF is a showcase for the world to see the region is well-prepared to welcome tourists and the destination is strong and growing with new product offers.

“The people of this destination are the best in the country and we continue to encourage all culinary happenings as one of the cornerstones of the destination’s promotional efforts,” concluded González Ortega.

he Palm, located on Olas Altas, is well-known for bringing top notch, cutting-edge entertainment to Vallarta. Inside you’ll find an intimate, completely refurbished 90-seat cabaret.

Opening November 17, the list of shows, entertainers and acts is sure to please visitors and residents of Puerto Vallarta alike.

Luis Lujan and Andrea Mottura of BOHEMIA VIVA! will open the Palm’s 16th Anniversary Season with an all-new show of their own, and will also star with Vallarta’s favorite Dirty Diva, Amy Armstrong, in her new show ‘Spanglish’ later this season. Bohemia Viva’s popularity has continued to soar since their debut at The Palm two years ago. They performed in several other Mexican cities over the summer, including San Miguel de Allende, often selling out performances with new-found popularity.

Bohemia Viva! will play throughout the season, beginning November 19th at 7:00.

‘A TUNA CHRISTMAS’

Also kicking off the new season at The Palm is the second installment of the ‘Greater Tuna’ series, ‘A Tuna Christmas’. Penned by the same writers as ‘Greater Tuna’, ‘A Tuna Christmas’, is the much-anticipated ‘yuletide’ themed sequel to last season’s sleeper comedy hit. Packed with your favorite ‘Tuna’

characters played by only two actors, Tracy Parks will reprise his multiple comedic roles, including that of Bertha Bumiller and Aunt Pearl Burrus, and will also direct.

This season will introduce and star Tracy’s brother,Terry Dale Parks, who will play the fussy, smut-snatching Vera Carp, animal-loving Petey Fisk and used weapon shop proprietor Didi Snavely (among others). Terry has worked in over 30 films and television shows alongside Hollywood Heavyweights Colin Firth, Cameron Diaz, Tommy lee Jones, Natalie Portman, Anthony Hopkins and Billy Bob Thornton. Terry will take time from his busy film career and join brother Tracy on stage for this run. Performances of ‘A Tuna Christmas’ begin November 20 through January 3.

KIM KUZMA ‘ACÚSTICO’

Award-winning Canadian vocalist and popular entertainer, Kim Kuzma is especially excited about the upcoming entertainment season in Puerto Vallarta. Known for her powerful vocal range and mesmerizing stage presence, Kim is celebrating her 10th anniversary of performing in PV at The Palm Cabaret and Bar this season. Years have passed since she started out in PV and Kim is thrilled to be taking her show back to The Palm, where it all began. Acústico will

play every Sunday and Wednesday beginning November 22nd at 7:00.

By offering Acústico twice weekly, more visitors will have the opportunity to attend this fantastic show that is always in demand.

On Sunday, November 22 at 7:00, Kim and the band members of Acústico debut with all live music from their triumphant new CD, Acústico II and a CD release party with special surprises.

The new music is entertaining, inspiring and captivating. There's an intoxicating variety of favorites and mashups with a latin flair along with consistently superb instrumentals.

Kim's voice is in top form and her interpretations of "California Dreaming," "Dark Lady" and "Windmills of Your Mind" are amazing. "If You Love Me," toward the end of the CD is simply beautiful and will capture your heart. Rest assured, Acústico II will translate into a hugely popular season for Kim Kuzma and her band.

Acústico... Is without a doubt, an essential experience for anyone looking for a quality live music performance in Puerto Vallarta" - Paco Ojeda, Vallarta Lifestyles Managing Editor Shows are scheduled seven days per week with two different shows nightly through April, 2015.

The Palm also offers matinees at 4:00 p.m. on selected shows.

Season’s First Becas Breakfast

By Suzanne Erikson and Terry Prill

O

n November 18 at Vitea you are invited to join Becas Vallarta in their first fundraising event of the season.

Becas Vallarta has a motto: “Changing Lives Through Education”. And Becas Vallarta sponsors over 350 students each year in Middle School, High School and University. Many of our former Becados have gone on to become Doctors, Lawyers and Engineers, among other careers.

Many of the students that Becas Vallarta supports are from single family homes, where the parent cannot provide more than daily necessities, much less the uniforms and school supplies needed to attend school.

Becas Vallarta, A.C. is a nonprofit, tax deductible Mexican Foundation, charged with fund raising and administering the scholarships program for students

in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico.

The America -Mexico Foundation, Inc., founded in 1961, is a non-profit USA tax deductible foundation (under section 501 (C) (3) of the IRS code) that donates all funds raised to finance those scholarships.

We look forward to another successful season of raising funds for our Becados. We hope you will

join us at one or all of our Becas Breakfasts this high season.

The ticket price is $200.00 pesos. Besides a delicious breakfast, there are scores of raffle prizes and surprise gift bags for purchase. For further information you can contact Suzanne Erikson at: 221 55-99, or Terry Prill at: 2215465, or Mariel or Carlos Fregosa at: 221-0789.

travel

20

Nov 12 - 18, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Day Trip Guide: Banderas Bay, Mexico

By Keph Senett

Expat writer Keph Senett scores a mellow boat tour in one of Mexico’s major tourist cities.

S

ergio Junior stands confidently at the prow of the panga. Although we’ve taken turns up there today, he’s the one who’s been working.

For me, the platform at the bow of the skiff is like a carnival photo booth where, instead of dressing up like a gunfighter, I throw my arms wide and whoop, “I’m king of the world!” He politely chuckles.

I’m guessing he’s heard that one before.

We’re on the water in the Bahía de Banderas (Bay of Flags, also known as Banderas Bay), 350km west of Guadalajara on the Pacific. The municipality straddles two states — Nayarit and Jalisco — and spans ~80km of coastline, bordered by Punta de Mita in the north and Cabo Corrientes in the south, with international beach destination Puerto Vallarta midway between them.

Along with Vallarta’s club and

beach culture, the area’s marine life lures a steady stream of tourists into the Bay with their swimsuits and fishing rods and cameras every year.

And there’s nothing wrong with that; this city is sustained by the 3.8 million people who visit annually. But by the time I’d been here three months, I felt like I’d met every one of them. I was ready for something more laid back, and that meant an alternative tour.

Locals know the way to get things done in Vallarta is face to face, which is how I found Sergio Junior’s dad, Sergio — a friend recommended him. From his home beach in Mismaloya, Sergio takes small groups on day trips in the Bay. It’s a family business (his brother also owns a boat), but he works alone except on weekends when Sergio Junior’s not in school.

Today’s a Saturday, so Sergio Junior’s spending his afternoon at the front of the Galilea while his dad sits in the back, relaxed in board shorts, a long-sleeved tee, and dark sunglasses on a buoyant lanyard.

“This is my office casual, amiga.”

If it weren’t for his hand, perpetually in motion as he corrects the trim and nudges the throttle, you’d think he was like me, on vacation in the sun.

My day had started in Puerto Vallarta, where I caught a southbound bus to Mismaloya, a 20-minute journey on a winding mountain road adjacent to the shoreline.

The highway runs through a series of condominium-heavy communities, and though it’s the dry season, the fences are loaded with honeysuckle and the sills overflowed with bougainvillea.

These are gardener-kept grounds.

Like many of the tiny towns along Highway 2, there’s not much more to Mismaloya than a single road flanked by stands where people sell sun hats, tacos, and excursions.

The moment I stepped off the bus, I was approached by a man in dusty jeans and a cowboy hat.

“Water taxi?” The way he’d casually fallen into step with me made me bristle.

“No gracias,” I said. “I’m already booked.”

“Con quien?” The man ambled alongside me as I walked to the beach.

“I’m with Sergio,” I told him, and was surprised when he reached out and clapped me on the back.

“He’s my brother,” he said, smiling.

When we reached the beach, Sergio dropped the hose he was using to wash salt water off a pile of swimming fins and stepped forward to shake my hand.

Our palms met and I was surprised by two things: one, his hands were enormous and rough, like bear paws.

And two, he’d initiated a series of complicated hand-holds, a friendly “welcome to the club” of a handshake. Like any good lead, he escorted me through the moves with such deftness that afterwards I beamed, surprised by my own dexterity.

When I pulled a wad of cash from my shorts and started counting out his fee, Sergio waved his hands. “No, no, no,” he laughed.

“You don’t pay the guitar player before you hear his song. How do you know if you’ll like it?”

Now, several hours into the day, I swivel on my seat to face the rear of the boat. “I’m liking this

song, Sergio!” I holler over the wind.

We’ve already hit Los Arcos — a group of granite rocks hollowed into tunnels, it’s a protected marine preserve and a key nesting ground for pelicans.

There, dozens of the behemoth birds swooped overhead as we spat into our snorkel masks to prevent fogging. Once in the water, Sergio pointed out starfish, manta ray, cornetfish, and blowfish, and showed me how to handfeed the clownfish by making a fist around a slice of bread.

Afterwards, we’d sped down the coast, Sergio reciting the names of the beaches as we passed. “We call this one Lover’s Beach,” he shouted, pointing to a secluded sandy cove surrounded by drooping palms, heavy with coconuts. “Two go in, but three come out.”

I’m replaying this joke in my mind when Sergio suddenly sits up and hoots, dropping the outboard’s throttle arm. Sergio Junior’s pointing out over the bow, his arm straight like a musket.

Sergio stands, and his eyebrows emerge from behind the frames of his shades. Aside from a faraway smudge in the sky, I see nothing.

When Sergio sits down and opens the throttle, the sudden velocity jerks me into my seat.

Their excitement is contagious. I face the wind and grin uncontrollably. I haven’t the slightest idea what’s going on.

The Galilea skips over the waves, churning the space between us and a point on the horizon. Sergio kills the throttle and all the noise stops except the frantic cry of pelicans. At first I think that’s what he’s brought me to see. The birds are circling, then folding their wings tight as they torpedo through the surface of the water. More often than not, they come up with a fish.

I’m absorbed in the show — the jockey, the dive, the convulsion as the fish swims down the bird’s neck — when Sergio says simply, “Amiga.”

I turn. There are dozens of dolphins leaping in pairs and trios, traveling towards us at wild velocity. Sergio restarts the motor and we move. The dolphins catch us and race by the bow. They jump out of the water and dive again, swimming alongside the hull with precision.

They seem close enough to

touch and I’m about to try when I look up and see hundreds of meters of ocean, all teeming with dolphins.

When we reach the edge of their feeding ground, Sergio U-turns and stops, idling. We watch — Sergio, his son, and I — as the entire school tears towards us, surging and diving, showing themselves off in the sunlight.

After several long moments, as their play ends and they return to feeding, Sergio asks, “Did you get that?”

I look at my camera, forgotten on the seat beside me. “I think you’re going to have to take me out again.”

Tour Galilea – Sergio Lopez Nuñez (044 322 139 2499, sergio. commismaloya@hotmail.com) Cost – Depends on season, number of people, and activity.

The boat rate, which will includes up to six people. Snorkels and fins provided.

Sergio runs day tours, snorkeling, fishing, and whale watching trips. Choose your activities, and Bahía de Banderas destinations like Los Arcos, Las Animas, and Yelapa. Call in advance to plan your day and negotiate a rate.

Food – Your route will determine your choices, but best bets include Manguitos for fresh seafood and “the pie lady” for sweets in Yelapa, a sundowner drink at any of the beach bars in Las Animas, and dinner at Las Gaviotas (owned by Sergio’s sister) on your return to Mismaloya. Note: Sergio’s boat comes equipped with an on-board cooler and ice, so pack a lunch and drinks.

Transportation Bus – Catch a bus at the corner of Constitucion and Basilio Badillo, Insurgentes and Basilio Badillo, or Aguacate and V. Carranza.

Look for the following place names painted on the windshield: Boca, Tuito, Botanical Gardens, Mismaloya. Expect to pay around 7.5 pesos to get to Mimaloya from Puerto Vallarta. Note: Don’t trust the sign. Always ask the driver if they’re going to your location.

Panga – Also known as water taxis, pangas are small boats with outboard motors used for touring, and to commute between communities. Note: For an extra fee, Sergio will pick you up and drop you off at playa Los Muertos — super convenient for those staying in Old Town or El Centro.

Original: Matador Network

vallarta

21

Nov 12 - 18, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Puerto Vallarta Garden Club – Beautifying Vallarta a New Season

P

.V. Garden Club begins a new season and welcomes back our supporters and members who are returning now.

This comprehensive report of the activity of the club through the summer includes obstacles overcome to continue our mission of Beautifying Vallarta.

First, you will notice as you drive into town from the airport, the beauty of Avenida Mexico. We did lose some beautiful trees to the elements, (and some to the merciless hacking of a heartless citizen) but we’ve placed new poles, replaced lost plants, and pruned and shaped the bougainvillea so it really looks beautiful.

20 new metal poles support the bougainvillea throughout the romantic zone. The very large red bougainvillea in the Mercado area have largely been replaced.

They were too big in some cases, and had threatened the electrical lines.

The smaller leaf and less vigorous growing bougainvillea will be more pleasing and more appropriate for this area. The river side of the street now contains lots of hibiscus, and the planters have been radically cleaned out.

Parque Lazaro Cardenas now has 250 ever-blooming ixxora on its periphery to augment the improvements already made by the club in past years.

A prototype garbage container has been placed on Olas Altas.

The purpose is to demonstrate how businesses can improve the esthetics of their surroundings, if they contribute to trash collection. Stay tuned for developments in this area.

Insurgentes, Ave. Vallarta, Basilio Badillo and Olas Altas, etc., all have new plants, and the support and wiring around the bougainvillea has been redone so the graceful cascading of the bougainvillea branches atop a large trunk is encouraged.

This appearance is what P.V. Garden Club is proud of in our planters throughout town and it takes constant monitoring and work to make this happen. Some restaurants have taken advantage of the bougainvillea adjacent to their entrees, and have tucked their dining tables under the branches. Here is La Dolce Vita on the Malecon.

The new small park at Rio Quale/ last hanging bridge was established

Havre No.111 Col. Versalles Fluent English Spoken

and planted last Spring, the Pier street, nominally under the aegis of the city, has been improved by planting PVGC offered.

Another aspect of our beautification mission you don’t see is the relationship we are building with the city, the Tourism office, and the many businesses whose owners sometimes don’t understand the role we private citizens are playing in improving the beauty of their storefronts.

Summer may seem like a dead time as we think of P.V. from afar, but it is just the opposite as you can see.

We have a talented, enthusiastic new board that met Oct 30th. You will be thrilled to know we committed to a third annual gala at an elegant location. The precedent set in 2014 at Casa Chickie, and the Hacienda Palo Maria in 2015

assures that we will have another sell-out event to look forward to.

The board voted to set the membership dues for the 2015-16 season at 500 pesos per person or 750 pesos per couple. We are also initiating a three tiered giving structure of 250 USD or 4000 pesos, $500 or 8000 pesos, and $1000 or 16,000 pesos. We hope to have an auto-deduct from checking or credit card plan to enable us to do this and make it easy. Stay tuned.

Please circle the date of Nov 19th for our “Return to P.V. Social” which will be a great time to see everybody at our President, Bonnie Mott’s Selva Romantica Palapa, from 5-7 p.m., and also circle December 17th for a party and Christmas Carol sing-along at the Botanical Gardens. We’ll let you know the time and transportation possibilities early in December.

Please “friend” us and encourages others to do so on facebook: P.V. Garden Club. And our website has recently been updated.

You should plan on going to it often for updates and information at www.vallartagardenclub.com.

For donations, including dues, please go to www.vallartagardenclub.com/donate. Or ask us how to wire money from the USA or CAN. Thanks for your ongoing support for P.V Garden Club – Embellecer Vallarta.

22

Markets and More – Weekly Events in Banderas Bay If you have an ongoing weekly event you’d like to add, email editor@vallartatribune.com Tuesday Malecon Sculpture Tour – 9:30am Hosted by Gary Thompson. The tour starts at the “Millennium” sculpture next to the Hotel Rosita at the north end of the Malecon.

Riviera Farmers Market – Nuevo Vallarta from 9am-2pm Wednesday Forever Spring Farmers Market - 50 Lazaro Cardenas, opposite Sandrinas, Bucerias 9am-1pm Three Hens and a Rooster Market - on Carranza 466, Old Town, Puerto Vallarta 9am to 1pm Artwalk – In the historic center of Puerto Vallarta 6-10pm Art collectors, local residents and interested visitors are invited to discover the great variety and exceptional quality of art available in Puerto Vallarta.

Recreactiva –Join in a group bike ride from Marina to the Malecon and back every Wednesday evening starting at 8:45.

Thursday Live Music and dancing in the Main Plaza, Puerto Vallarta – 6pm Marina Night Market – 6-9:30pm vendors and artisans set up along the marina Friday Marsol Market by the Pier, Puerto Vallarta – 9:30am – 1:30 Sayulita Farmers Market – 9am-2pm Saturday Old Town Farmers Market 9:30am-2pm Parque Lazaro Cardenas, Puerto Vallarta Three Hens and a Rooster Market - From 9am to 1pm, on Carranza 466, Old Town, Puerto Vallarta Lo de Marcos Tianguis - 9am - 2pm Saturday – Artisans, organics, food Live Music in the Main Plaza, Puerto Vallarta – 6pm Sunday La Cruz Farmers Market – La Cruz Marina 9-2pm Recreactiva – 8am-noon – the centre lanes of Francisco Medina are closed to traffic and open to anyone wishing to walk, skate, ride from Hotel Krystal to the Sheraton.

brain teasers

Nov 12 - 18, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

charities

23

Nov 12 - 18, 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 Saturdays, 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 40+ children and youth rescued from high-risk situations. Donations & volunteers always welcome! Totally self-funded. www.fundacioncorazon.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.

Ecology and Conservation of Whales, AC. National Coordination Network for the Assistance of Entangled Whales. Biol. Astrid Frisch Jordán, Arce #541. Col. La Primavera Puerto Vallarta, Jal. 48325, Mexico, Tel/Fax: (322) 29 37 851 fibbcatalogo@yahoo.com Families At The Dump: Supporting families living in the landfill or garbage dump thru education and sustainable opportunities.

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

familiesatthedump.org Fundacion Punta de Mita LDG. Ana Lilia Medina Varas de 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: Welcoming shelter for men of all ages who are troubled w/alcohol & drug addiction.In great need of cash or material resources Contact MAYNOR Tel 281 0644 horizontedepaz@live.com International Friendship Club - Provides medical, educational and social services to those in need in Puerto Vallarta. www. ifcvallarta.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 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