Issue 976, Dec 17 - 23, 2015

Catch us online @ vallartatribune.com

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Kathleen Carrillo Process of Painting

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New Year’s Eve Kim Kuzma

Dec. 17 - 23, 2015 Free Issue 976

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Charity Christmas Carol in Vallarta

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welcome

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Welcome to Puerto Vallarta

and Riviera Nayarit Here is some advice to make your trip a little easier and more enjoyable.

TIME ZONE: The entire state of Jalisco is on Central Time, as is the southern part of the State of Nayarit starting from Guayabitos in the north.

BUSES: A system of urban buses with different routes can bring you from one end of the bay to the other and all the spots in between.

Current fare is $7.50 pesos per ticket and passengers must purchase a new ticket every time they board another bus. There are no “transfers”.

TAXIS: There are set rates within defined zones of town. Do not enter a taxi without agreeing on the price with the driver first. Price is per trip not person.

MONEY EXCHANGE: Although you may have to wait in line for a few minutes, banks will give you a higher rate of exchange than the exchange booths (caja de cambio). You will need your passport. Better yet, use your bank card to withdraw funds from any ATM machine. Note that ATM’s in the banks are the safest to use and generally charge lower fees.

DRINKING WATER: For the 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.

Dec. 17 - 23, 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

Adorable Dog In The Spotlight... AZUL

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

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zul is a gorgeous, uniquely beautiful Australian Shepherd-Labrador Retriever mix. Check out those eyes on her! She is just ten months old and weighs about 44

pounds. This sweetheart can be a bit shy and submissive but she is good with other dogs and even cats. Azul has the best personality, being both playful and loving. She really loves to get cuddles and belly

rubs. Azul has been dewormed, spayed and is current on all her vaccines. If you are ready to walk around town with this stunning lady, contact us at spcapv@gmail. com for an application.

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

editorial

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Dec. 17 - 23, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Editor’s

Note

editor@vallartatribune.com

F

or those of you who are here on vacation or as ‘snowbirds’ are you finding the time is flying by? I was reminding my husband yesterday that Christmas is just one day in a calendar full of 364 other days, so he should have no excuse to not know what presents he’s buying this year, and it occurred to me that with only eight shopping days left, I don’t know what I’m buying anyone either!! For me this is sacrilege. I am usually all done, wrapped, tagged and mailed by late November.

It actually gives me a little panic to think I haven’t got this under control yet. No doubt I’ll overspend in an effort to ease my anxiety.

Which shouldn’t be a problem as I head to the Friday Marsol Market, the Saturday Old Town Farmers Market, a couple of my fav shops in town and to Pitillal for some tacky goodies. For those of you looking for (eeep) last minute gifts, the markets are great for thoughtful, unique presents but also consider gift certificates to your favourite spa or tour, or tickets to one of the dozens of excellent shows around the Bay – did you see the Kim Kuzma New Year’s Eve show at Luna Lounge ?– Love her and love that place!! There’s also plenty of beach vendors, small local shops and artisans who can always use your patronage.

We’re staying in Puerto Vallarta

this year – last year we went to Tepic and I’m not going to do that again. I feel for you Rhonda! With all the changes in recent years I feel like its time to create my own traditions, combined with some passed down from my family and some adopted from my husbands family. It will be the first Chirstmas dinner I’ve cooked in years. I’m scared of cooking a turkey (I can’t put my hand inside of it, ewwww), so I’m going to try a glazed ham, and scalloped potatoes and brussel sprouts and carrots mashed with parsnip (can we buy those here?) and even more exciting is the Christmas breakfast of waffles and fruit compote, bacon and mimosas. I’m going to play Aaron Neville’s Christmas album and maybe a little Lenard Cohen and Rita McNeill in honour of my family back in Canada. And we’re going to have stockings, which truthfully I’ll probably have to fill my own – pffft… men, and pretty wrapped presents under the tree.

It really is my favourite time of year.

I love finding the perfect presents and taking the time to wrap them and make personalized cards - if I had the time, I’d be Martha Stewart.

Ok. So, moral of this week’s rambling editorial, time is running out. Get shopping! Support local!

Happy holidays to everyone!

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Av. Los Tules 160 int.9 Col. Díaz Ordaz, Pto Vallarta.

SPCA of Puerto Vallarta

W

e just love our visitors to town and the sanctuary.

They are all so very generous.

The Balsiger family recently visited the sanctuary and gave their tour guide, our imitable volunteer Robin McCaffry, a donation of 700 pesos. Good friends Suzanne Deaton and Darryl Rhoades donated $100 US. Thanks so much to everyone!

And don’t forget to stop and see us at the Farmers Market each week.

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 extremely abusive situations or they have been abandoned.

Your love and attention can make up for that sad history. During

By Janice Gonzalez

your visit, you can interact with the animals and even take a dog (or two or three) for a walk.

Are you ready to get involved?

Pack your bag for an amazing afternoon at the SPCA! Please bring water 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.

Old Town Farmers Marke

By Erin Staley

W

ith the holidays fast approaching, it's the perfect time to give locally made gifts! Our 90+ artists, soap makers, jewelers, doctors, farmers, bakers, seamstresses and chocolatiers have “make it, bake it, grow it” treasures to wow your loved ones. Select from handcrafted jewelry, natural body products, prehispanic musical instruments, Huichol art, traditionally woven items, artisan foods and more! Your buy-local gift will also come with personal service, real value, a great story and the feel-goods that come with contributing to the local economy.

While shopping, be sure to check out the 100% natural coconut products of Carlos Morlett's MuchoCoco.

Meet MuchoCoco It was a bright sunny day in 2010, when a tropical breeze swayed the palms and caused a coconut to drop on Carlos Morlett's head.

“When it happened, something shook loose in my brain,” says

The Holidays Come to the OTFM-TC Morlett, claiming that the incident made him a little loco (Spanish for “crazy”) for coconuts! But really, Morlett was no stranger to coconuts.

As a child vacationing in the tropics, he watched the locals cook with coconut oil, use the fruit's skin as a natural moisturizer and sun block, and fashion the wood – from what they called the “Tree of Life” – into homes.

This time, though, Morlett was inspired to maximize the benefits of this natural ingredient and share it with others.

Today, natural product-lovers around the world have joined Morlett in their loco-ness for coconuts! They enjoy the benefits of coconut oil to moisturize dry skin, calm irritated areas and amplify one's natural beauty. With over 300 ways to use coconuts for a healthy lifestyle, Morlett's brings his own tried-and-true methods to create a must-have line of 100% natural, coconut body products.

100% Natural Coconut Products Through extensive research and

testing, MuchoCoco has found a way to efficiently utilize the various healing properties of the coconut.

“We use only the purest products sourced directly from clean lands where they are naturally grown, processed and packed with the utmost care,” says Morlett.

“This process allows us to guarantee the freshness, quality and effectiveness of all of our coconut skincare products.”

The MuchoCoco product line includes pure coconut oil (in solid and liquid form) and bougainvillea infused coconut oil. MuchoCoco products can also be found in spas, hotels and resorts, and specialty boutiques throughout Mexico.

If you'd like to learn more about MuchoCoco, contact Morlett at (322) 134-4162 or sunvirginbioorganic(at)yahoo.com.

Love Yoga?

While you're at the market, join us for yoga classes (9:30-10:30 am) taught by instructors from Yoga Colective.

We meet in the kiosk every

Saturday through April 30. Participation is by donation.

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 14 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 ? 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

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Dec. 17 - 23, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

$81,000 pesos Raised Meet Juan, Pirate and El Conejo for Local Charities

T

he Vallarta Yacht Club sponsored the 3rd Annual Taste of Nuevo/15th Annual Great Chili Cook- off on Saturday, December 5 at the Nuevo Vallarta Malecon and netted over $81,000 pesos which will be shared equally by Families of the Dump and the Navy League's "Toys for Tots" program.

This year's event involved 22 participants consisting of local restaurants, organizations and individuals. Winner in the restaurant category was Dona Tere and the winner of the "Best Chili" was Dana Doncaster from Paddlelit. Many of the restaurants participated in both the Taste of Nuevo and the Chili Cook-off. Honorable mention goes to a group of ladies from the local Nuevo Vallarta condos that provided homemade baked goods for sale. They contributed $8900 pesos to the total.

We would like to thank and recognize all the participants who made this event possible.

Local Restaurants: Dona Tere Ernestos Saku Sushi Ocho Tostadas Estudio Cafe Mar Extea Wine & Burger El Barracuda 3x3/Pastryland La Peska Osos La Isla Mauricios Riviera Grill Capatosta Vallarta Yacht Club Individuals and Organizations Dr. Essau Gutierrez

Andy & Liz Barrow The Trejo Family Dana Doncaster-Paddlelit Baked Goods from Local Condos Marina Riviera Nayarit Riviera Nayarit Convention and Visitors Bureau Mark your calendars for next year’s event which will be on December 3, 2016.

Looking for travel companion heading to Vancouver Island "Katniss" needs a ride to her new Forever Home on Vancouver Island. Anyone going up to Victoria or Vancouver before Christmas? Or do you know someone who is??? Sweet little Katniss would like to come alone with you in the cabin, ride under the seat.....and sleep the whole way "home". Softsided carrier and all travel documents provided. (She has a very special little girl puppy up there to meet!!!)

Marilyn Khan exkhan@usfamily.net

Ed. Note: Juan passed away suddenly last week of a suspected heart attacked. In the wake of this sad news we are republishing this charming story we received in late 2013 about one persons experience with Juan and Conjejo.

The story was submitted in broken English and I have edited it lightly and to only add clarity where needed. he first time I spotted Juan, it was in Zona Centro or Old Town, riding his tired donkey ‘Conejo’ along Basilio Badillo street. His rugged appearance makes him look like an old Mexican muleteer of pre-revolutionary times. His dog ‘Pirate’ walked languidly behind them; they were on the way home after a long day of work. Being a new-comer to Vallarta, I had expected this type of encounters, after all Vallarta was known for harboring donkeys before they were driven out, or at least that was my impression. I remember a friend who lived here long ago tell me, “When somebody stares at you steadily, look at them, they look like the burros of Vallarta.” And so, I somehow had expected to see at least a few of them, pulling hay on their backs or with a cart.

I didn’t have any idea of how big this city had grown over the past 15 - 20 years, but I guess progress works that way and leaves no room for these poor guys. Nowadays, there are only a couple of them left that I know of - El Conejo and Andale.

Andale is the famous donkey of Andale’s restaurant-bar. That charismatic donkey gives rides on Olas

T

Photos by Bill Bell www.ontheroadin.com

By Francisco Grijalva Noriega

Altas street in the Romantic Zone. The owner only charges a fair tip for the ‘authentic’ experience.

Juan and company work at Insurgentes by the bridge of the Rio Cuale Island. He offers souvenir pictures to tourists for a living. Once I had a candid conversation with him while befriending Conejo and Pirate. Juan told me he comes from a small village deep in the mountains of the state of Jalisco, and came to Vallarta several years ago. He first worked in the area as a muleteer with Conejo for a while, then a friend told him he could make a living using his tamed donkey, by having tourists sit astride for a souvenir picture, wearing a Charro’s sombrero. He did just that for the last few years and his still doing it.

However, business is slow nowadays, he complains. Nobody cares anymore for a nice original memory picture, in the old fashion style and he adds, in a humble way, people no longer care for the old camera, everybody carries their own camera or cell phones. As a result, and to his dismay, tourists would indiscriminately shoot pictures from any angle.

Juan is unable to explain what the cost is, he doesn’t

Local Soup Kitchen helps the Poor & Vuln

T

o see Adriana Paz. A.K.A. Mama Vallarta, Founder of Mama Mexico’s Soup Kitchen be so passionate about bringing help to the poor children of Puerto Vallarta’s most vulnerable residents is awe inspiring,” said Ricardo Mazcal a local artist and volunteer. Mama Mexico’s Soup Kitchen should be a role model for us all. If she can do this, think what all we can do working together to feed our poor hungry children and the old folk’s in Puerto Vallarta” Mama Mexico’s Soup Kitchen is a non-profit organization founded and registered in February of 2010. Mama Mexico’s Soup Kitchen has been feeding children, old people and people that are hungry for more than six years six day a week. This non-profit organization is a small charity based in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco Mexico.

The mission of Mama Mexico’s Soup Kitchen and food shelf is to provide nutritious food, hope, education and resources for those without life’s essentials.

The city of Puerto Vallarta donated an old police station guard house to the non-profit and that became the building that houses Mama Mexico’s Soup Kitchen, the entire building is 4 meters by 4 meters and it houses the kitchen, storage and serving bench that only holds six people at a time, regardless the soup kitchen serves between 30 to 70 persons a day and it could do more, but right now the seating problem is the limitation.

We are seeking donations from companies and individuals to help more hungry children and poor people, we know that there is more poor people specially in the Colonia Magisterio, (a.k.a. the garbage dump) area and it is our goal to establish a second Mama Mexico’s Soup Kitchen in the

Colonia Magisterio.

Poor people are in real problems since the cost of food this year is unbelievable, price of food staples have gone up 29% and good paying jobs are scarce.

The ones that suffers the most are the children of the poor.

Puerto Vallarta is a beautiful tropical paradise where wealthy foreigner and nationals come to enjoy, but for the poor children is a living hell. Our heart cries for children and old folks going to find food in the city dump. We are organizing a food dive to help Mama Mexico’s Soup Kitchen. We are asking for additional volunteers and for donations of basic staples such as rice, beans, sugar, salt, cereal and basic toiletries such as soap and money to pay utilities and wages to the kitchen staff.

07 speak but a few words in English, so he tries to prevent any picture taking by displaying a weather beaten sign explaining the fares and the rules, to little avail.

It is somewhat sad to see inconsiderate tourists avoiding paying a buck or two for a souvenir picture.

I consider that to be unfair, and taking his livelihood away, so I suggested Juan display a big new sign advertising $1.50 dollar a picture while having tourists use their own cameras. I thought that to be a good idea to increase his earnings, perhaps that way tourists would understand and spare a couple of bucks from their vacation budget to buy such a noble souvenir. I wrote for him two big and visible signs, one reads: $1.50 USA DOLLAR FOR A PIC USING YOUR OWN POLAROID. The other one: IF YOU TAKE A PIC PLEASE PAY FOR IT - GOT TWO MOUTHS TO FEED. I sat there for a while to wait and see if my suggestion worked, but it did not. I did see one couple abide by the rules of the sign (they looked like honeymooners) and so Juan earned a couple of dollars. I felt good for him, other tourists would just shoot pics with little sense of regret despite the big sign. As the sun set and Juan and company were ready to leave, he pulled out his pocket, and counted only a few dollar bills for a long day of work. Visibly disappointed but resigned, he evoked a popular Mexican phrase, “Oh well, tomorrow will be another day.” We said farewell and as I see them leave. I said to myself. “Vaya con Dios, Juan and, oh! yes tomorrow will be another day” for I was looking for work too.

nerable

“I have heard from tourists say that poor Mexican people are poor because they are lazy. I know that that is not the case, poor people live in a trap, a cycle of poverty that it is hard to break. By poor people having food in their stomach, hope, education and a helping hand, that cycle can be broken”, says Adriana Paz, founder of Mama Mexico’s Soup Kitchen.

Right now the Mama Mexico Soup Kitchen is conducting their first fundraiser to raise money and food for donations of basic staples such as rice, beans, sugar, salt, cereal and basic toiletries such as soap and money to pay utilities and wages to the kitchen staff.

Mama Vallarta’s Soup Kitchen is located at Pedro Moreno #309 Colonia Benito Juarez, Puerto Vallarta. The soup Kitchen is located in an old police station shack in the area known as Remance. You can contact Ricardo Mazcal for more information and how you can get involved at mazcalteotl@gmail.com.

local

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Dec. 17 - 23, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Kathleen Carrillo: Process of Painting

K

athleen is often asked, “How long does it take for you to do a painting?” Her response is always, “It took me forty years to be able to do a painting in a couple of days. She explains, as an artist, she has gone through many stages of learning how to become a better draftsperson, only to want to ‘undo’ her competency and become ‘unconsciously competent’.

By this she explains, it is her goal to be able to loosen her style and emphasis the expressive meaning of the work in the “Undoing" of her development of mastery.

Kathleen explained that her current process, is to try to quickly create with broad strokes, a painting without drawing anything, in the initial step up to the canvas.

“This keeps me from being so proud of my skills and allows the image to birth itself without my ego involved."

In the photo shown, she shared the stages of development of the work. Kathleen started her initial

“frenzied” application of underpainting and was dissatisfied with the first attempt of Joaquin Cortes, a famous Spanish flamingo dancer.

She shared that she decided to come in to the studio the next morning and give the work one last opportunity to satisfy her.

Adding a quick line study over the initial underpainting, gave her the desire to continue with the freshness she requires of her work.

Once again she shared, “Low and behold, unencumbered by my ego, he came bounding off of the canvas in all of his glorious movement.”

“The more spontaneously I work, the more powerful it becomes.

Belaboring a work kills the freshness, and reveals a painter is still timid and unsure of themselves.”

She explained that her journey has been long and arduous, and that she has dedicated her life to her work, but has no regrets, feeling that it has made her a stronger painter.

She also shared that many

clients have thought her work was that of a man’s. It brought to mind, in her study of art history, the story of Georgia O’Keefe’s husband, the famous photographer, Alfred Stigletz, telling his gallery clients, “Finally a woman that paints like a man.”

She told us that for her, as well as for Georgia O’Keefe, this was an insult, a backhanded compliment, but still, it makes her smile, for reasons we are all aware of.

Her gallery is a must see! She is open daily from 10-5, Saturday 10-3 and she always participates in the Southside Shuffle. The next Shuffle is Friday, December 18, from 6-10. You can find her gallery a half a block off of Basilio Badillo on Constitucion right next door to the Banderas Bay Trading Company. To contact Kathleen call 044 322 141-8867 Mexico cell, or US 9841 932 8543.

Check out her website as well, KathleenCarrilloGalleries.com

congratulates

June Rosen on the re- opening of her gallery and her new collection for the 2015-2016 season!

We invite all our customers and friends to stop by and enjoy her holiday party.

Congratulations and Happy Holidays!

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What is osteoarthritis?

O

steoarthritis is a condition that affects your joints. The surfaces within your joints become damaged so the joint doesn’t move as smoothly as it should. The condition is sometimes called arthrosis or osteoarthrosis.

Older terms are degenerative joint disease or wear and tear.

Here in Puerto Vallarta where we have a large aging population this degenerative disease is prevalent. With the uneven sidewalks and cobblestone streets it can be difficult to get around.

There are solutions available locally for those that suffer from osteoarthritis.

When a joint develops osteoarthritis, some of the cartilage covering the ends of the bones gradually roughens and becomes thin, and the bone underneath thickens.

All the tissues within the joint become more active than normal – as if your body is trying to repair the damage: The bone at the edge of your joint grows outwards, forming bony spurs called osteophytes.

The synovium (the inner layer of the joint capsule which produces synovial fluid) may thicken and make extra fluid. This causes your joint to swell.

The capsule and ligaments (tough bands that hold the joint together) slowly thicken and contract as if they were trying to make your joint more stable.

Sometimes your body’s repairs are quite good and the changes inside your joint won’t cause pain or problems.

But in severe osteoarthritis, the cartilage can become so thin that it doesn’t cover the ends of your bones. Your bones rub against each other and start to wear away.

The loss of cartilage, the wearing of bone and the bony spurs can change the shape of your joint, forcing your bones out of their normal position.

The main symptoms of osteoarthritis are: Pain – The pain tends to be worse when you move your joint or at the end of the day. If you have severe osteoarthritis, you may feel pain more often.

Flower of the Week

by Sandra Cesca

Poinsettia Noche Buena (Spanish) Euphorbia pulcherrima

C

hristmas Flower. A favorite for the holiday season, this plant in the red and green colors of Christmas can reach 12 feet when grown in the wild.

Hybrids in white, pink, and yellow are also found. Aztecs produced a red dye from the flower and used preparations as an antipyretic medication. Toxicity is relatively mild however the latex sap can cause an allergic reaction

in sensitive individuals.

This plant is one of over 200 found in Sandra’s color-coded guidebook, Tropical Plants and Walks of Puerto Vallarta. Available at Page in the Sun Bookstore, and from Sandra at the Marsol Farmer’s Market on Fridays.

Information on her many area walks can be found at: www. escaperoutevallarta.com.

Dec. 17 - 23, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Stiffness – Your joints may feel stiff after rest, but this usually wears off as you get moving.

A grating or grinding sensation (crepitus) – Your joint may creak or crunch as you move.

Swelling – The swelling may be hard (caused by osteophytes) or soft (caused by synovial thickening and extra fluid), and the muscles around your joint may look thin or wasted.

Not being able to use your joint normally – Your joint may not move as freely or as far as normal.

Sometimes it may give way because your muscles have weakened or your joint has become less stable. Exercises to strengthen your muscles can help to prevent this.

How Is Osteoarthritis Treated?

Doctors often combine treatments to fit a patient’s needs, lifestyle, and health. Osteoarthritis treatment has four main goals: • Improve joint function • Keep a healthy body weight • Control pain • Achieve a healthy lifestyle.

Osteoarthritis treatment plans can involve:

• Exercise • Weight control • Rest and joint care • Nondrug pain relief techniques to control pain

• Medicines • Complementary and alternative therapies • Surgery.

Source: www.niams.nih.gov

2016

y p p a h ew n ar ye

local

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Paradise

Finding

and Parenting

Your Purpose

Leza Warkentin

Rhonda Zarate

mommyinmexico.wordpress.com

rhondazaratelifestyle@gmail.com

The Heart of Christmas

I

found myself in tears this morning, blubbering to my husband that Christmas is my favorite time of the year and how UNHAPPY I was, that I was not spending Christmas AGAIN without my family in Canada.

As I cried, he just had this I don’t know what to do with her look on his face and blurted out, “I will watch the Sound of Music with you.” He knew, that he and our son’s had watched it before at Christmas and was just trying to give me a little piece of our tradition and a feeling of home.

It's not that I am unhappy about being here in paradise; it's just Christmas to me is about FAMILY and being together. In saying that, I am blessed to have my husband’s family near; I just simply was feeling homesick. What can one expect with Jingle Bells blasting on every corner? Well, that could be an exaggeration, but that’s how it felt to me!

Once I wiped the tears away and felt heard, my little heart felt less heavy, suddenly the fairy dust of Christmas Spirit started to fall upon me.

This heart felt feeling, gave me a chance to sit back and really hear, and see all the beauty of the Christmas season here in Puerto Vallarta; firecrackers and fireworks blasting, music playing, people taking to the streets, night after night, whole heartedly celebrating with such joyous spirits.

The happiness, deep commitment of honoring tradition for both young and old are beautiful to witness. What I love about the

Dec. 17 - 23, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Mexican culture is how important family is and put above everything else. Their commitment to their faith and the parties that meld from one day to the next, lingering from the first of December to the end of the year.

The grand finale on December 31st is an elaborate display of a firework celebration for the entire bay to witness, world renown in its electrifying magnificence, is almost too much for words to explain.

With my tears dried and my heart now bursting with gratitude I think to myself, how lucky am I to have family near and far that I love so much and who love me too. I guess it does not matter so much that we can’t be together on one special day of the year. What matters is that we love each other 365 days a year.

We all should celebrate that and just because we can't be physically with our loved ones on Christmas Day, does not mean our hearts are not with each other where ever we might be.

Merry Christmas Amigos!

Homework: If you are lucky enough to be blessed to be with family on Christmas Day, invite someone who might not have a family to be with you and your family. That would be the greatest gift of all to give.

Rhonda is a REALTOR, Author & Motivational Speaker. She is dedicated to helping you find your right and perfect “Lifestyle.” Check her out at www.rhondazaratelifestyle or at her blog on Facebook at Rhonda Zarate Lifestyle & Real Estate. Drop her a line to say hello.

Festive Falsehoods

I

’ve been reading a lot lately about the parental controversy over Santa Claus. Like how wrong it is to lie to our children about a large jolly elf, able to sneak into about a billion dwellings all around the world in a single night, leaving gifts for people for being “good” according to his own interpretation.

Because he’s been basically stalking everyone all year and making his decisions based on a list he keeps with everyone’s personal information on it.

I guess when you put it that way it sounds kind of creepy and illegal.

But the point that most parents make is more about the lying part.

And to that I’d like to ask those parents to dig deep and tell me that they have never lied to their children.

I thought so. Because guess what, her face will NOT stay stuck like that. The mall security guard will NOT cuff him and take him away based on a public temper tantrum. Vegetables do NOT taste like candy if you eat enough of them (which is unfortunate).

I may be siding with the Santaliars because I am guilty of the worst fabrications. I have built for myself a precarious house of cards, and one day it’s all going to blow down, right after a single, key

question that I didn’t anticipate.

For example, my kids asked me once “Why are you and daddy going shopping without us? I thought Santa gave us all the toys.”

I had an out of body experience right then, listening to myself weave an unlikely story about how we were going out to have a meeting with Santa to discuss their behavior. I had to construct specifics like “it’s a closed circuit TV situation” and other weird, conflicting details that rapidly painted me into a corner. Just to keep the Magic of Christmas alive. It was exhausting.

Not only that, in our family, it doesn’t end there. Having Mexican-Canadian children, there are always two sets of benevolent, kindly beings for every holiday.

During the Christmas season, many Mexican children are visited by the Three Wise Men on the morning of January 6.

At that point of Christmas vacation, I’m usually too relieved that the Santa Situation is over for another year to even deal with Los Reyes Magos. My husband and I decided long ago that we would never keep our stories straight if we told them that three kings who lived in the Middle East 2,000 years ago would be wandering by on camels to leave gifts, but only

if they left their shoes out, and that yes, only nice people break into our home, but the bad guys will never figure out the deadbolt.

We always share the lovely story as part of the Christmas tradition, but let them know that we were commemorating the Three King’s amazing journey by putting a special gift in their sneakers ourselves. It has been completely liberating.

I definitely see both sides of the issue. My kids have gotten a lot of joy and wonder out of their belief in Santa Claus. Yet, it must be lovely not to constantly fear that you will bring it all down around you in a moment of outraged distraction.

It takes one kid tripping the other accidentally/on purpose and you’re shouting that you’ll never buy them the Lego Hobbit Mirkwood Elf Army set for Christmas this year with that kind of behavior. And then it’s all over, and you have at least ten therapy sessions to save up for.

The good news for me is that my kids are at an age where they are starting to talk about Santa like they still WANT to believe, but realize it’s probably not true. It’s almost like they are keeping up the pretense so I won’t feel badly. If only they knew.

Like many of the “mommy wars” out there nowadays, my personal view on this one is that we should just respect one another’s decisions on child-rearing and do our best to support one another. In this case, I’d appreciate it if you’d ask your child not to tell mine that the modern version of Santa Claus was invented by Coca-Cola. In return I’ll ask my children not to tell yours that there’s no physical way your Elf on the Shelf could have moved all that living room furniture by himself. His legs aren’t even self-supporting. Seriously.

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Dec. 17 - 23, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

South Shore

Temptations

By Nicole Martin

For the Love of Pelicans

W

hile Garza Blanca neighborhood honors the beautiful white herons that bless the south shore, garzas are not the only birds honored on our coast. The beloved brown pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis), which calls our sandy front-yard home, holds a special place in our hearts. Watching pelicans as they dive for fish or bob up and down on the water’s surface enjoying the year round sunshine becomes a daily meditation for many South Shore homeowners and visiting tourists, with some residents actively involved in their conservation.

Here are 9 facts about pelicans, and the brown pelican in particular, that you might not have known:

1. There are only eight pelican species in the world.

2. The brown pelicans are native to the Americas, breeding from Anacapa Island, California to Chile and from Maryland to Venezuela and Trinidad. They can also been seen after the breeding season as far north as Columbia and Nova Scotia.

3. Of all the species, the brown pelican is the only one whose habitat is strictly marine. They tend to prefer shallow inshore waters such as estuaries and bays, which is why Banderas Bay is a haven for this species.

4. Their wingspan can reach more than 2 meters wide, which allows them to glide gracefully over the water as well as maintain stability at great heights.

5. Brown Pelicans hunt for their fish by diving impressively then scooping the fish into their pouch

beneath their beak that acts as a dip net.

6. Their favorite food includes smaller fish like sardines and anchovies, which is why they can be found in large numbers hanging around on piers like Los Muertos and Los Peines, feeding on scraps from fishing boats too.

7. Their pouch can hold up to 3 gallons of water and their stomach a gallon.

8. In general, pelicans live for between 15 to 25 years in the wild, although there have been reports of a pelican reaching the age of 54 in captivity.

9. The best pelican sighting spots in and around Garza Blanca Preserve are: Boca de Tomatlán, Mismaloya, Los Muertos Pier and Beach and the Puerto Vallarta Malecon.

If you want to join Puerto Vallarta’s ever-growing pelican loving community, click and share your pelican experiences. h t t p s : / / w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / groups/1498994073752110/

Wellness

Latina

By Marcella Castellanos info@wellnesslatina.com

Why are smoothies important for breakfast?

Y

ou've probably already heard it: Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and sometimes it just doesn't fit into our schedule the way it should. How we begin the day will determine how the rest of the day will play out. It will determine if we feel energized or if we are dragging ourselves to the next coffee stand. What we put in our

bellies is directly related to how we physically feel. So if you are a skip breakfast and grab the coffee mug morning person then this blog is for you.

We all need and crave energy.

I know I do! Sometimes it is so easy to want to grab a quick bowl of cereal or even forget breakfast and just get through the morning on 1-2 cups of coffee for the energy needed to survive the day. I don't want you to just survive through the day though; I want you to thrive through the day. I believe you will also appreciate not going on the

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"crash and crave" roller coaster for the entire day. If you begin your morning with caffeinated coffee and sugar, you will crash, and you will be either too tired to make it through your responsibilities or you will be reaching for another cup of coffee to get through a few more hours.

Smoothies are another quick alternative to a fast breakfast that can help energize us throughout the entire day. When you toss in some greens, a little fruit, and a healthy liquid like coconut water or almond milk, you are bound to

feel energetic and ready to take on the day. Starting the day with a smoothie also gives you well needed antioxidants which help protect our bodies from free radicals, and it is a great low glycemic start.

Eating or drinking a low glycemic breakfast will help curb your sugar cravings for the entire day and it will also help with not crashing. Next time you want a quick breakfast, try a delicious smoothie that will leave you feeling energized and motivated. A morning smoothie will provide your body with the nutrients it needs to produce natural energy and naturally boost your metabolism.

You can give delicious, nutritious smoothies at Salud Superfood in Olas Altas #534, La Piñata on Venustiano Carranza #322 and Playa Detox at De Los Tules 294, Jardines de Las Gaviotas and Salati at Hidalgo to name a few. You

can also try another holiday smoothie that I enjoy, HI Pumpkin! So, what are you reaching for tomorrow morning? I know I will be pulling out my blender and getting ready for some long lasting energy and a happy dance. You can replace the pure, therapeutic grade essential oils in this recipe with natural lemon or lime and ginger. Nopales you can find at most supermarkets or from a local vendor on the streets, kale is found at supermarkets and farmer's markets and we are so lucky to have fresh coconut on many corners in Vallarta.

I'm a bilingual, bicultural Certified Wellness Coach.

My mission is to empower you to become the best version of yourself so that you can do more of what makes you feel alive! I help you incorporate plant-strong nutrition, fun Latin movement, and essential oils to support physical and emotional health. If you want to feel more vibrant and youthful again download my FREE guide "Revamp, Reset Your Body in Three Days by clicking here or visit my website at www.wellnesslatina.com

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The Eyes are the Singer, Brittany Kingery Brings Tropic Windows of the Soul Rock to Vallarta

By Marcia Blondin

By Debbie White

I

n March of this year, I introduced a healer from Sayulita – David Chavez - to readers of the Vallarta Tribune in a four-part series entitled Mud and Magic (see issue #’s 936 to 939). And now I am honoured to introduce residents and tourists in Puerto Vallarta to Master Healer Bertrand Boudreau.

In 1994, Canadian-born Bertrand left his home, family and friends and set out on a journey that would take him through 72 countries. He travelled over 50,000 miles in four years, all the while collecting money for children suffering from AIDS; his tour took him literally around the world…on a bicycle.

While Bertrand was on his odyssey he had to look through stranger’s eyes in order to survive.

Language difficulties, social mores, political climates and countries in crisis – in the end it came down to Bertrand learning how to ‘read’ the eyes of others in order, oftentimes, just to stay alive.

In retrospect, Bertrand knew he was a healer for most of his life but it wasn’t until his epic tour was done and he was visiting friends in North Carolina that a woman – a physic – made him recognize his gift and to put a name on it: Soul Healing.

The concept is simple; the technique gentle…sit quietly and look into Bertrand’s eyes. There you will see your own soul reflected. With Bertrand acting only as a filter and you retaining full control of

N the session (this is NOT hypnosis) your soul will begin to unload problems, worries, bad memories, amounts of baggage you can be rid of simply by acknowledging, forgiving others and yourself and moving on. Soul Healing can and will produce profound changes in people who are extremely ill.

How long does each session take? There are no set times involved; it all depends on the receiver which is why Bertrand will see only one client a day. On average a session is two hours.

What can I expect when the session is over? The following are initial reactions from clients: - My self-being was restored; I am so happy - I regained control of my life – physically and emotionally - It reopened my heart to Love - I instantly forgave myself and others - It allowed me to be more me - I feel like a student that has had the privilege of a great teacher For more information and/or to make an appointment contact Bertrand Boudreau:bertrandsoleil@gmail.com Cellular phone: 322 110 1442

ot long ago, she was a government worker in the United States’ Pacific Northwest.

Today, the beautiful and very talented Brittany Kingery is a rising star in Puerto Vallarta's music scene. A few months after the release of her tropically-themed 2013 debut CD, Edge of the Ocean, this McCleary, Washington-born singer-songwriter decided to practice what she preached in her music. She quit her secure government job, packed up her ukulele and followed her dream to Bucerias, a small fishing village near the Mexican resort city of Puerto Vallarta.

When Brittany released Edge of the Ocean, she recalls that expectations for the project were modest.

Her bandmate and producer Rob Hill approached her with the proposal to record a CD to raise money for a Mexico-based charity. Most of the songs on the CD were about life in Bucerias, so the plan was to market it to tourists who they hoped would purchase it as a souvenir of their vacation. What neither could have known was that the music video for her song "Treasures", also known locally as "The Bucerias Song", caught the attention of one "trop rock" internet radio station after another.

Before long, several songs from the album were in regular rotation and people were taking notice of the singer, whose stellar voice alternates between sweet and soaring.

Brittany sometimes uses the term "tropical rock" or "trop rock" for short, to refer to her blend of beachy country and rock and reggae and Latin music.

"We identify with artists like Kenny

Chesney and Zac Brown and Colbie Caillat, but we didn’t know there was this whole world of independent trop rock artists and fans out there until after the first CD came out," she recalls.

That world of "trop rock" quickly and warmly embraced her, most notably with a nomination as Female Vocalist of the Year in the Trop Rock Music Awards just months after the release of her first album. "That was a tremendous honor and a surprise," says Kingery, who by the time of the nomination had just made her move to Mexico. "Awards in themselves don’t mean that much to me because I don’t like to think of myself as being in competition with other artists," she adds. "But after having given up the steady paycheck and the benefits and security to chase this dream, being recognized with an award nomination was very validating." She earned another Female Vocalist of the Year nomination last year as well as a nomination for the organization’s Horizon Award, which recognizes up and coming artists. And just last

month in Key West, Brittany won Female Vocalist of the Year, Song of the Year and a Horizon Award at the Tropic Rock awards.

After performing over a hundred times in her first season in Bucerias, Brittany returned to her home state of Washington to complete work on her second CD, Dream in Blue, produced

by Kevin Johnston, Rob Morgan Hill and Rob Thorworth. With the release of this critically acclaimed sophomore album Dream in Blue last summer, the aspiring musician has truly found her paradise and is living her dream.

The Dream in Blue Tour that began last summer concluded this past summer with a 42-day whirlwind trip that will took Brittany all around the USA and parts of Canada this past summer.

With the development and release of numerous impressive music videos filmed here in Mexico, Brittany continues to catch the attention of more and more music lovers in Bay. It is her sincere hope that her music will lead others to find their beaches, both literally and figuratively speaking.

British Jazz Legend, Janette Mason to PV for a Special Performance

By Deb White

B

ritish Jazz Great, Janette Mason will be crossing the pond to give one lucky Puerto Vallarta audience a night of incredible music at the beautiful Terra Noble Spa. Local Jazz favorites and Banderas Bay Jazz Allstars members, Steve York and drummer Luis Murillo, will be completing Janette's trio for this special evening.

Janette Mason is well known in the U.K as a World Class Composer, Arranger and Jazz Pianist. From her high profile gigs in the 90’s with artists like Seal, Oasis, k.d.lang

and Robert Wyatt, to her years on camera as Musical Director for Jonathan Ross and Antoine De Caunnes, Janette has proven to be the consummate musician and a standout talent in Jazz, Pop, Indie, Rock and World Music.

Janette Mason has been a mainstay of the British Jazz scene for over a decade. She has toured her unique jazz sound in Europe, Israel, Japan, Thailand and the United States, playing famous Jazz Festivals and entertaining audiences at Carnegie and Albert Hall.

As a successful recording artist and arranger, Janette's debut album,

Din and Tonic, was a contender for "Jazz Album of the Year." Her January 2009 release, Alien Left Hand, featuring Julian Siegel, Tom Arthurs, Lea DeLaria, received a Parliamentary Jazz nomination.

As a sought after arranger and producer, she has contributed tracks to Ian Shaw’s Drawn to All Things and Lea DeLaria’s The Live Smoke Sessions.

Janette's current release, D'Ranged, featuring David McAlmont, Claire Martin, Tatiana LadyMay Mayfield, Vula Malinga and Gwyneth Herbert, is garnering rave reviews in the press. Janette is

the musical Director at Hideaway in London and is currently producing an album for Jude Adams.

Joining Janette as part of her musical trio for the Vallarta show will be local musician and bass player extraordinaire, Steve York.

Steve played a major part in the British Music Invasion of the 70's, performing with Eric Clapton, Mick Jagger, Ringo Starr, Pete Townshend, Robert Palmer and a zillion other famous musicians of that era.

Opening the show for Ms. Mason will be the wonderfully entertaining, talented and very popular Moruno. With a unique and magical

style, their gypsy jazz has everyone in Puerto Vallarta buzzing. They appear every Saturday night at El Patio de Mi Casa, a very special jazz venue in Centro.

Janette Mason's show on January 8th is likely to be one of most sought after tickets of the season in Puerto Vallarta. It will truly be, an amazing musical event held in a most spectacular location. Celebration Vallarta will feature hor d'oeuvres and a cash bar. State-of-the-art, high quality sound equipment for this event will be provided by Chas Eller Studios.

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Dec. 17 - 23, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Frank Sinatra - A Legend for Six Decades

By Fred Jacobs

Sinatra did manage to change prejudices at the Sands and most US high end clubs followed suit.

After Sinatra’s gaming suspension (due to Mafia connections) in 1963 he stayed more in the back ground.

In 1967 the well-known industrialist and millionaire Howard Hughes bought the Sands in and the first thing he did was to throw Sinatra out of the premises.

The Rat Pack made many popular movies over the years and when one appeared as an act, the others came crashing on stage as a surprise. The public loved it and soon expected it. This lasted until 1988 when he and Sammy toured the world in 29 days. He sang and performed until he collapsed on stage in 1994.

His personal life was anything

but boring. Four wives including Ava Gardner, Mia Farrow and Barbra Marx; who he was with for 22 years until his death.

Three famous children including Tina, Frank Jr and Nancy along with rumors of other alleged children. Reported affairs with the likes of Lana Turner, Judy Garland, Lauren Bacall, Angie Dickinson and of course Marilyn Monroe were always hot topics of gossip magazines.

The FBI kept Sinatra under surveillance for almost five decades beginning in the 1940s amassing over 2400 pages on his activities. Throughout his life, Sinatra denied any ties to the Mafia.

Over his career, Sinatra released almost 100 studio albums and 16 live albums. Sinatra won 3 Oscars, 13 Grammys, and was nominated for scores more awards including Emmys, for his TV work.

Sinatra even has three stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for his work in music, film and TV. President Regan awarded him the highest civilian award in 1985 - The Medal of Freedom.

Sinatra died from a heart attack in May 1998. A lifelong catholic, he even had a Cardinal conduct his funeral. Frank had always been a generous contributor to all kinds of charities in hopes his sins would be eventually forgiven.

Despite questionable “friends”, today Sinatra is remembered as great entertainer, lover and supporter of racial equality.

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

at River Cafe 12:30 pm $300 pesos - advance tickets only.

Fashions, three course meal, raffle, silent auction, 50/50, door prizes.

Guest entertainer Lorena Peril.

All proceeds to Pasitos de Luz - a non-profit providing free therapy and care for disabled children from low-income families.

Tickets: Deja New, Alexander A Salon, Cassandra Shaw, River Cafe, Nacho Daddy or email Barb at condo211@yahoo.ca January 19 Organ, Soprano, Tenor and Trumpet classical music concert 8PM at church of Our Lady of Guadalupe - with ALL proceeds going to the church. All are welcome!

January 19 Fiesta Blanca will be the Vallarta Garden Club’s biggest event of the

year. It will be a dream in white, flowers, candles, table clothes, and all the glitter and glamor you’ll want for an elegant evening.

A leisurely cocktail hour, auctions, music, and a seated dinner at Oscar’s on Isla Cuale.

January 21 Joshua Rodriguez Macias Major Piano works’ Recital Auditorio Juan Luis Cifuentes Lemus Centro Universitario de la Costa Av. Universidad 203, Ixtapa 6:30 pm Free Admission (322) 223-4606 (322) 226-2263 January 27-31 Festival Sayulita – Weekend long event with film, music, surf and tequila!

So much to do and see this festive weekend in the charming village of Sayulita.

S

inatra was born in December 1915 in Hoboken, N.J. to Italian immigrants. His mother was a midwife while his father’s main career was that of a fireman, rising to the rank of Captain. Sinatra’s first taste for music was on his 15th birthday, when an uncle gave him a ukulele as a gift.

Odd jobs and even enrolling in a business school, to appease his mother, were just not for him. He quit the business school after just eleven months and made small amounts of money singing at local social clubs in Hoboken. To get his voice out there, he even sang for free on a local radio station. In New York City he found he could literally sing for his supper and cigarettes.

Sinatra never learned to read music and always sang by ear. In 1935, with the help of his mother, Sinatra was allowed to join the Hoboken Four singing group. The group initially only let Sinatra join because he had a car and could chauffeur them around. The group appeared on a major radio amateur talent show and won the contest.

The win also earned the group a six month contract to sing on stage and the radio across the US. Sinatra quickly became the lead singer of the group. By 1939, it was clear the group would never become the big success Sinatra wanted. In 1939, Sinatra left the group to become the lead singer of the Tommy Dorsey Band in Chicago.

Sinatra achieved hit songs over the next few years and wanted to

go solo to compete against the likes of Bing Crosby. Unfortunately, going solo was not easy as Sinatra’s contract gave Dorsey 43% of Sinatra’s lifetime earnings in the entertainment industry. After lengthy legal battles, and paying Dorsey thousands of dollars, Sinatra was free and soon became Billboards top male singer.

Fan clubs had formed all over the country to idolize him. In 1944 he was hired as a singer at the Paramount theatre in Manhattan.

Teenagers were not admitted and it caused a riot - his national fame was achieved. In 1946 he made his first of many albums.

He became a member of the “Rat Pack”. It started with Humphrey Bogart as the leader until he passed away in 1957.

The other members were Peter Lawford, Sammy Davis Jr., Joey Bishop, Dean Martin and later on Bing Crosby.

The Sands Casino in Las Vegas became their home base in the 50’s and their shows attracted big spenders and the top Mafioso’s.

Sinatra became friends with Jack Entratter (former mafia boss of the famous “Copa” club in Manhattan).

Sinatra became a minority partner in the Sands hotel and a few years later, Sinatra was so appreciated by the “Boys” for what he had done to put the Sands on the map, that they cancelled his gambling tabs.

Sinatra fought for racial equality for the acts that performed there.

Nat King Cole was hired but could only sleep or eat in his dressing room.

Events Around the Bay

If you have an event you would like to publicize, please email editor@vallartatribune.com December 17 PVGC First Annual Christmas Carol Sing-Along commences at 1 p.m.

Bob Bruneau will accompany on the piano. Imagine yourself in the beautiful setting of the Vallarta Botanical Gardens, singing White Christmas surrounded by palm trees and bougainvillea while thoughts fly north to friends and family stuck in the snow. An Optional Lunch at the Botanical Gardens at 11:30.

December 23 Bingo at Nacho Daddy's at 4:00 pm Bingo card sales beginning at 3:00 pm and bingo at 4:00 pm.

Bingo bags over 1000 pesos, raffle tickets for great prizes, final game

is a cash blackout bingo with the winner taking home half the pot. All proceeds shared with Pasitos de Luz and Colina Spay and Neuter.

January 4 PeaceAnimals Fundraiser 6:00pm – Starting with drinks and Dinner and followed up with a screening of ‘Ella es Ramona’ – Popcorn and candy served!

A charming, intelligent romp of a romantic black comedy! Filmed in Mexico. In Spanish with English subtitles.

At Villa Bilboa on Carretera a Barra de Navidad Km 3.8 #1730, Playa Venados $500 peso donation Tix at Cassandra or cristhian@

villabalboa.com100% of proceeds support PeaceAnimals Clinics January 12 Purr Project’s Fashion Show and Brunch 10:30 a.m. at Daiquiri Dick’s $300-peso ticket price will include a three-course brunch (with mimosas!), beautiful fashions from Sucesos Boutique, La Santa Boutique, Serafina, and Flirts Skirts, jewelry by Sonia Bormann, and much more—and a raffle for great prizes! Tix at Daiquiri Dick’s or by contacting Marilyn Khan at exkhan@usfamily.net.

January 16 Deja New Fashion Show Luncheon

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Dec. 17 - 23, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Vallarta Favorite Amy Armstrong Stars in ‘Spanglish’ with Bohemia Viva at The Palm

R

eturning for her eleventh season at The Palm, cabaret veteran Amy Armstrong is back with her all-new music and comedy show, ‘Spanglish’, with Argentinian duo Bohemia Viva, beginning December 21. A creative blend of heartfelt classic songs and modern favorites, ‘Spanglish’ is the latest collaboration between these gifted entertainers, with some sizzling versions of your favorite songs, beautiful acoustic harmonies, and a generous helping of outrageous comedy.

Affectionately known as Puerto Vallarta’s favorite “Dirty Diva Loca”, with “the voice of an angel and the mouth of a sailor”’, Amy’s brassy, bawdy, over-the-top comedy and powerful vocals are legendary in the cabaret scene. All this, coupled with the unique, acoustic style of Bohemia Viva, creates pure musical magic on stage. Bohemia Viva’s own popularity has skyrocketed during the past two seasons at The Palm, and in other cities in Mexico, including sold-out shows over the summer in San Miguel de Allende.

As one of Puerto Vallarta’s most beloved entertainers, Amy was honored earlier this year by Vallarta Lifestyles Magazine as ‘Best Reinvention Diva’, in their annual ‘Best of Vallarta’ issue. Now based in St. Louis, MO, Amy has performed all over the USA, Canada, as well as on many RSVP cruises around the world with musical partner Freddy Allen. ‘Spanglish’ will begin December 21 through the end of January. Amy will also perform her new one-woman show, ‘And Something for Mama’, which will feature the life and music of Cass Elliot (aka: Mama Cass), beginning in February.

More details and information about that show are forthcoming. Please consult the Palm’s show calendar for all show dates/times and online tickets at the link provided below.

Now Playing at The Palm

Kim Kuzma and her sensational LIVE band in ‘Acústico’ continue to thrill audiences with their unique musical adaptations with renowned lead guitarist Eduardo Leon. A blending of new and classic pop songs with old favorites,‘Acústico’ plays every Wednesday and Sunday at 7:00 all season. Bohemia Viva!, Vallarta’s Argentinian sweethearts, continue with their own show featu-

ring sizzling Latin rhythms and sensuous acoustic harmonies. They also play all season, with their next performance being December 19 at 7:00 pm. Singer-songwriter Spencer Day is back for a third season with his all-new Holiday show ‘A Rebel Without A Claus’ now through December 20. And the hilarious sequel to last year’s comedy hit, Greater Tuna, ‘A Tuna Christmas’, starring Terry Dale Parks and Tracy Parks, recently premiered to rave reviews, and is now playing through January 5.

Coming Soon Award-winning band and Banderas Bay favorite, Luna Rumba, with their musical tapestry of Latin Fusion, Gypsy Flamenco and so much more will have their next performance on Christmas Day at 7:00 pm. They play bi-weekly on Fridays all season. Latcho & Andrea; The Blond Gypsies return December 29 with authentic and romantic Gypsy Rumba and Flamenco guitar. And returning December 30 for a third season at The Palm, is renowned vocalist and celebrity impersonator

Steven Brinberg starring in his critically acclaimed show ‘Simply Barbra & Friends’. Steven’s uncanny ability to look, talk and sing LIVE, just like Barbra Streisand, as well as impersonating some of her celebrity friends, has delighted audiences all over the world. The Palm is wellknown for bringing top notch, cuttingedge entertainment to Vallarta.

Inside you’ll find an intimate, completely refurbished 90-seat cabaret with outstanding sound and lighting, creating the ambiance of cabarets from days gone by. 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.

The Palm is non-smoking (a patio is provided for smokers) and is located at Olas Altas #508, in Zona Romantica. Tickets may be purchased online 24 hours a day, and at The Palm’s box office, open at 10:00 am daily.

A full calendar of performances, information and online tickets are available at www.ThePalmPV.com.

You can also find the Palm on Facebook at The Palm Cabaret and Bar.

VALLARTA SHOPPING AND EVENTS www.puertovallartadining-shopping.com

Celebrating Lights!

MARSOL FRIDAY MARKET OPEN EVERY FRIDAY 9:30-1:30 P.M. Except for Christmas and New Years Open Thursdays, Dec. 24 and 31

SPECIALTY FOOD. PASTRIES,

By Marcia Blondin

ART, HANDICRAFTS, JEWELRY,

P

uer to Vallar ta’s men’s choir take to the stage again this week with a few changes.

Their name, for one, is now the Puer to Vallar ta Gay Men’s Chor us and Ar tistic Director Alfonso Lopez promises that this year ’s Winter/ Chr istmas/Hanukkah concer t is going to be different from last year.

For one, the choir and their new director have had a year to wor k together, explore ideas, tr y new songs (and new dance steps!) and are excited to share this new Holiday Concer t with old and new fans and fr iends in Vallar ta.

Alfonso says the Chr istmas and Hanukkah songs will be sung in English, Spanish, French, and Latin!

By the time the Vallar ta Tr ibune goes to pr int there will still be t wo concer ts left to attend: Thursday December 17 and Fr iday the 18. http://www. pvmenschor us.org for more infor mation.

Suppor t these great gay voices raised in song ever y chance you get; a superb way to kick off the war mest time of the year…

CLOTHING, LEATHER, T SHIRTS, CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS, DOG TREATS. GIFTS, HOME DÉCOR MARSOL HOTEL LOBBY FCA. RODRIGUEZ 103 NEXT TO LAS VELAS PIER, OLAS ALTAS

Advertise all year in the largest English newspaper in the Bay - for only a few pesos a day!

Published 52 weeks a year and distributed from Punta Mita to Mismaloya - the Vallarta Tribune has been your best resource for the past 19 years!

Contact editor@vallartatribune.com or Call 225 49 82 for more information.

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

riviera nayarit

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Dec. 17 - 23, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

10th Int’l Colectivo San La Cruz Primary School Pancho Art Festival gets help from Amigos

T

he 10th International Colectivo San Pancho Art Festival has begun in the Riviera Maya with “Multicultural Community” as the theme. This week, San Pancho comes alive with music, dancing, circus performances, sculpture exhibits, surfing, photography, theater, cuisine and soccer.

“We’re going to start changing things around a bit,” said Ramiro González, one of the organizers.

“This year we’re finishing up the themed events with the participation of the community and next year we’ll be holding the festival together with guest countries and states.”

This year, Culture Week lasts from December 12-17, with a daily activity held every evening.

There was a photography expo on Saturday detailing the 10 years of the Colectivo San Pancho in the

Bodega 3; on Sunday there was a surfing tournament (the only event that took place during the morning) and on Monday the Soccer Cup was held at the Unidad Deportiva.

On Tuesday the San Pancho Turtle Camp showcased sand sculptures celebrating one million liberated turtles; an homage to Frank D. Smith was held on Wednesday on the beach; on Thursday there will be a ceviche tasting on the boardwalk; and on Friday there will be a Christmas Festival in the Entre Amigos Community Center.

The stage productions will take place on December 18-20 from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. at the Plaza del Sol. There are over 20 different presentations to be enjoyed in the Cultural Capital of the Riviera Nayarit including dance, music, circus acts and theater.

New Year’s Eve Extravaganza with Kim Kuzma and Acustico on the North Shore

By Deb White

V

isitors and residents in Bucerias are thrilled to learn that Kim Kuzma and her band will be performing at the New Year's Eve Extravaganza at the popular Luna Lounge.

Award-winning, Canadian vocalist, Kim Kuzma is known for her powerful vocal range and mesmerizing stage presence.

Kim is celebrating 10 years of shows in the greater Puerto Vallarta area. Years have passed since Kim performed on a weekly basis in Bucerias but those of us who have been around a while fondly remember her amazing shows. In recent years, Luna Lounge has brought Kim and her accomplished band to Bucerias for special guest performances of their electrifying and rousing, Acustico show.

Joining Kim for Luna Lounge's New Year's Eve show will be Eduardo Leon on guitar, Fernando Gonzalez on rhythm guitar, Roberto Falcon on bass, Jeronimo Guido Martinez on drums, Bob Tansen on flute and special guest Diego Mondragon on violin. Diego is an astounding violinist who is a wonderful addition to the band!

Acustico includes an intoxicating variety of favorites

and mashups with a latin flair along with consistently superb instrumentals.

Presenting fantastic new music from their recently released Acustico II CD, Kim and her band will perform "California Dreaming," "Dark Lady" and "Windmills of Your Mind" just to name a few. Her version of Edith Piaf's, "If You Love Me," is simply beautiful and will capture your heart. Respected by musicians, critics and fans alike, Kim brings sass, high energy, wit and amazing vocal ability to the stage each new season.

For an amazing New Year's Eve Celebration, Luna Lounge in Bucerias is the place to be.

For information and tickets for the evening go to lunaloungebucerias.com or call 322 208 1261. Don't miss out on this fabulous evening with the incredibly talented Kim Kuzma and Acustico.

'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 "Every year Kim brings to Vallarta the top selling number one show, add in her fabulous band and you are set for the best night of entertainment." Mexico.Events.mx

By Carmen Tapia

T

he classroom I have been given, was reserved for my Reading and Writing Program. As you enter the primary school, it is located in the first set of classrooms because those are the first and second grade rooms whose students are the target for my teaching. The goal is to have all children reading and writing at grade level by the end of second grade.

My classroom is formatted as a resource room. I pick up students in small groups, of usually 3 or 4 students at a time. I assess all first and second grade students at the beginning of the year and group them by reading levels. They are assessed again at the end of the year to show progress. I use Pearson’s DRA (Developmental Reading Assessment) materials to inform my instruction.

Having a classroom allows me to serve more students at one time. While I work in the Interactive Literacy center with a group of students, another group can be working in the Reading or Writing Centers.

The guided play and art center is designed for three special education students with possible mental retardation. (No psychometric tests have done with any of them). These three children come to me for the whole day while I’m at school.

The classroom needed a little sprucing up, but the furniture was from desks and chairs in a pile of broken furniture in the back of the school. The school provided a magnetic board in great shape and the plastic shelves that hold our small library.

My former school in Tucson donated twenty-five boxes of books in Spanish. Amy Welch put her great skills to work and found generous sponsors who made it possible to create a lively and organized classroom.

A special thank you to James Gordon and Norma Kafer from Playa de Huanacaxtle and Phoenix, who donated $1,000USD to Banderas Bay Charities, and dedicated those funds for the classroom. I immediately went out to Office Max to buy a file cabinet and locking closet. Next I went to Sam's to buy another locking cabinet, Costco to buy two

alphabet floor rugs, and then to WalMart to buy tables and chairs.

And a heartfelt thank you to Jo Wood, a Canadian resident who lives nearby as she has been helping me clean and organize the room. A shout-out of thanks to my Punta Esmeralda neighbors who are helping with classroom materials and organization. Thanks to Sylvia Harder, who has offered her services to help clean and paint the walls.

The classroom layout has created a lot of curiosity from the students, and from the teachers, as well. Students are already coming in small groups at recess and asking permission to lie on the rug

and read! And the teachers come in to ask questions, they can’t quite figure it out yet but take a lot of pictures…of everything.

So, thank you Amigos de La Cruz for your support! It is greatly appreciated by everybody involved.

It takes a village to educate a child. We are all putting our grain of sand into this project. The children of La Cruz are very lucky to have so many sponsors willing to help them to succeed in their education.

Carmen Tapia is a former teacher at Davis Bilingual Magnet School, now volunteer teacher at the La Cruz Primary School. Living at Punta Esmeralda and in Tucson, AZ.

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Dec. 17 - 23, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Life

In La Cruz

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

Riviera Nayarit Kicks Off 2016

J

oin the residents and visitors at these great events happening in January 2016 - The Patron Saint Festivities for Our Lady of Peace in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle and Bucerías, the International Migratory Bird Festival, the Sayulita Festival, the Vallarta Cup Race Series and the Art Festival.

includes a fun verbena and plenty of cultural activities, among them, a maritime pilgrimage from La Cruz de Huanacaxtle all the way to Bucerías with dozens of boats escorting the Peace Torch.

The Riviera Nayarit is kicking off the New Year with all kinds of fun events from cultural, and artistic to sports, environmental, religious and much more! Here’s a look at what’s coming up in January. Mark your calendar!

International Migratory Bird Festival (January 26 to February 2) One of the most important bird watching and conservation festivals on the continent is held in San Blas, one of the best-known areas for endemic, resident and migratory birds. There are over 500 species, different observation routes and a cultural festival at the port.

Patron Saint Festivities for Our Lady of Peace (January 16-24) Our Lady of Peace is the patron saint of fishermen, and this religious festivity in her honor takes place in the town of Bucerías. It

Sayulita Festival (January 27-31) Laidback and luscious, the Pueblo Mágico of Sayulita offers movies, music, drinks and surfing.

The last weekend of the month is a full-on party weekend and this

year the concert is going to be stellar: think Kinky, Le Butcherettes, Golden Ganga, La Hora de La Hora, Insoul and Mexican Juligans.

Vallarta Cup Race Series (January 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30) Saturdays in January belong to this series of nautical competitions that ply the waters of Nuevo Vallarta. Every weekend there’s a friendly race with a corresponding theme party at night to welcome in the New Year by sailing with friends.

Art Festival (Saturdays) Every Saturday in high season head down to the Malecón (Boardwalk) at the Marina Nuevo Vallarta where you’ll enjoy a festival chock full of painting, sculpture and music among many other artistic impressions in a fun, family atmosphere.

The meeting point is at the Estudio Café.

Animals need your help in Bucerias

J

ust as in many towns in Mexico, Bucerias and La Cruz suffers from many unwanted and abandoned cats and dogs.

They are left to wander the streets searching for food and shelter; cars hit some of these animals.

There simply are not enough loving homes to take them in.

A January spay/neuter clinic is proposed to help solve the problem of over-population of unwanted animals.

Sue Fornoff is working with several other Bucerias residents (including Harold Sokolove, Joanne Walsh, and Rachel Meza) to raise

money for a Bucerias clinic. They have contracted with PEACEAnimals for a clinic that will be held on January 13-16 at the BCC (former Bucerias Bilingual Community Center), Calle 16 de septiembre at Matamoros, in Bucerias.

The clinic services are free, anyone in the area can bring their dog or cat to be spayed/neutered.

Animals will also be treated for parasites, fleas and ticks, and any additional health problems will be addressed when possible.

In a typical clinic, over 100 animals are sterilized in the 4 days.

The cost of the 4-day clinic is

$1,800 USD. As of today, Sunday, December 13, we have raised $210 of $2,000 USD. WE NEED YOUR HELP! As the sponsors, we are responsible for paying that fee, providing lunches for the staff and recruiting volunteers.

Thank you in advance for donating to help reduce the population of unwanted/abandoned animal in Bucerias and La Cruz, and their environs. www.gofundme.com/ buceriasclinic Sue Fornoff: sioux4noff@aol.com Harold Sokolove Harold.sokolove@gmail.com

S

hortly after arriving in La Cruz six years ago, I decided to take an exercise class.

Little did I know I’d meet one of the most inspiring ladies, ever!

Pat Henry had created a therapeutic exercise program; I asked her to explain. “In 2007, I was certified by Heather Wallace as a practitioner in her program, The Wallace Method, a pain management therapy. After helping clients on the therapy table, I became interested in creating a way to teach them how to do the movements themselves… the fishing pole (not the fish) approach.

That pursuit became Organic Stretching®: body/mind movements; my adaptation of her amazing creation.

This is the seventh season in La Cruz teaching on my terrace in the middle of my garden.”

Recently Pat created an online program of exercise… “From the moment I experienced Heather’s work, I wanted to take it out to the whole world. The Seven (7) Step Online program is now live and available wherever the Internet goes.” For more information; http:// organicstretching.com Pat moved to La Cruz de Huanacaxtle in June of 2009. She had bought a little casita on a nice piece of land with fresh air and some big trees. Pat says, “I could afford it.

I loved the small village feel of La Cruz and the peace of my location.

Perfect silence almost every night.”

Rarely does one see such an impressive resume. I asked Pat to share the highlights of her life, before La Cruz: “We really have to start in 1997 when I arrived in Puerto Vallarta by boat returning from my solo voyage. I loved it and have been in this area ever since. I left from Acapulco in May 1989 and returned in May 1997. The New York Times reported me as the First American Woman to Solo Circumnavigate the world. It was a 40,000-mile journey with stops in 40 countries. In 2002 I wrote my book By the Grace of

the Sea: A Woman’s Solo Odyssey Around the World.

An aside; I marvel that as I’m putting the finishing touches on this article this pops up on Facebook: “Hi Pat, A little story for you...

Savannah and I are in a restaurant in Reykjavik, Iceland at the end of September. We were talking to the couple at the next table and when we said we were from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico he said “Oh, I just finished reading a book about a woman who sailed solo for many years and now lives in Puerto Vallarta”. I said oh that's Pat Henry I know her. He was very impressed and he loved your book.” ~ Candace Shaw And then; “I thought I was enriching my 10 year old grand daughter's life and knowledge on the way to her gymnastics class the other day by telling her about Pat Henry's voyage. She informed me from the back seat of the car. "We learned about her in school!” Hurray for Women! Gloria Baczak When asked what inspires her?

“The endless possibilities for my work! One young man (28) wrote to say that after one day using my DVD he was finally able to wake up without pain in his arms and hands. He had stem cell replacement therapy for cancer and his body rejected the cells, attacking his connective tissue; that’s the tissue we are stretching in this work.”

community

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Dec. 17 - 23, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

A Christmas Carol in Vallarta

By John Warren

H

ave you ever watched the movie or read the book, “A Christmas Carol” by Charles Dickens? It is one of the best loved tales of Christmas.

The story begins on a cold, bleak, biting Christmas Eve in London. Ebenezer Scrooge is “a squeezing, wrenching, grasping, scraping, clutching, covetous, old sinner,” who hates Christmas. But by the end of the story he has discovered that giving generously to people less fortunate than him has made him happier and in love with the world.

Parts of the story play out in Puerto Vallarta every day of the year. Many of us walk past beggars in the street and ignore pleas for donations from the poor and the disabled. Refugio Infantil Santa Esperanza, or R.I.S.E, is a twenty minute walk from Daiquiri Dicks Restaurant, and it welcomes street kids and gives them shelter, food, education and love.

Members of the International

Friendship Club (IFC) support the club’s own social and medical programs and numerous registered charities, including RISE, and we are careful about how the club’s money is spent. So a couple of week’s ago Henry Golas, the President of IFC, and I visted RISE. There are about forty kids at RISE at any particular time and they range in age from new-born infants to thirteen (boys) and fifteen (girls). Almost all of them are allocated to RISE from DIF, a government agency for the under-privileged adults and children in the area, but some are simply handed in at the door by parents or other relatives who are unable to cope.

(We heard how RISE had taken in the baby of a 12-year-old mother.)

Sofia Robles, the fundraiser and volunteer coordinator spent three hours with Henry and I telling us about the organization’s history and its current situation. It receives no income from government and almost all of its income comes from donors in Canada and the U.S.A. The organization relies for some of

its food on handouts from Costco and other suppliers who have leftovers at the end of the day. Sofia took us to the food prep area where Dennis Dzubay, a volunteer and an IFC member, spends a few days a week peeling vegetables and fruit and other work necessary to feed the children.

Then we went to visit the ironing room, where Donna Dzubay, Dennis’s wife and Secretary of IFC, volunteers three or four days a week to iron all of the clothes for forty kids! Madre Maria, the CEO of RISE, has a policy that all of the clothes must be ironed so that her children will not look different form other kids from “regular” homes when they are in school.

Afterwards, Sofia took us on a tour of the dormitories; one for infants, one for children from aged one to six, one for girls from six to fifteen, one for boys of six to seven and another for boys from eight to thirteen. What happens to boys who reach fourteen and girls who reach sixteen? They are given back to DIF to care for.

We also saw the rooms where the kids do their homework each evening and are helped by a couple of part-time teachers and by a parttime psychologist. She and the rest of the staff are obviously doing a great job because all of the kids all seemed to be very happy and affectionate to the staff and to each other.

Like children everywhere, the orphans at RISE need kindness, generosity and compassion.

Their “family”, RISE, needs more

volunteers to help with the infants during the day, in the kitchen and with maintenance work in the building. And they need money. Every nickel that you can afford will help.

(Contact Sofia at sofiarobles.rise@ gmail.com or (322) 227-1404 or RISE at contacto@risepv.com.

Facebook – Rise Puerto Vallarta) Anything you can give will be helping street kids who have no family of their own to get a good start in life: at least until they reach those teenage years.

IFC has a long list of charities that we help financially and RISE is one. We do that by running home tours (see…http://www.toursforvallarta.com), by offering bridge lessons, Spanish lessons, movie nights, social bridge and opportunities to get together socially. (see…www.ifcvallarta.com). Everyone is welcome.

The International Friendship Club is a registered charitable organization in Mexico. It is located at the northeast corner of the Insurgentes Rio Cuale Bridge above the HSBC Bank, Colonia El Centro, Puerto Vallarta. Phone: 322-222-5466. Website: ifcvallarta. com Email: ifcvallarta@gmail.com.

real estate

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Dec. 17 - 23, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com

Seguro Popular

By Sonia Diaz

Seguro Popular is a Mexican government healthcare program.

Seguro Popular has many hospitals and hundreds of clinics throughout Mexico.

W

hen my husband was declined some time ago, I worked extensively with Seguro Popular's main office in Mexico City. After doing so they agreed expats did not have to be a citizen but must have a Temporary or Permanent Resident visa.

If you have an emergency you go directly to Hospital General for treatment. At any time, if you have any problems at the hospital including billing, quality of care etc., you are advised to contact the Medico Gestor. Coverage includes nearly every medical condition including cancer, X-rays, fractures, appendicitis, hernias, vasectomy, heart disease, electro-cardiograms etc. Most medicines are given by the hospital/clinic, although if insurance does not cover those medicines, they are usually sold to you by the hospital at a very reasonable price. Based on my experience they may not have the medication you request but a generic may be offered. To be honest, if you walk into the clinic with prescriptions expecting them to automatically fill them with no medical consultation they will not take kindly to you doing so. There are no pre-existing conditions restriction; there is no age limit.

Your insurance starts immediately and is nationwide. You should always present the enrollment approval form and number when needing care. Coverage is for 3 months to 3 years.

Fees for your policy and care depends on how you answer questions such as: do you own or rent, do you have cement, dirt or tile floor in your house; do you have a refrigerator and stove; how many TV’s and bathrooms; number of bedrooms; do you work; do you own a car; etc?

These questions, normally in Spanish, are computer generated and asked by the receptionist. It is important you answer these questions correctly. An error may result in over-charging. Your answer will generate a DECIL (level) from I to X. The fees are annual and cost is for a family regardless of how many are in the family. So, if one person

or several are in a family it does not matter as the cost is same. This is to encourage families to include their children. Typically, most people even if they rent will pay something. There is no chart showing all the variables, which establishes your fee. You may pay for as little as 3 months or as much as 3 years based on a pro-rata amount of the annual costs below. For those enrolled before the fee moratorium ended your current policy remains in effect until it expires.

DECIL de Ingreso Cuota Familiar Annual en Pesos I

0 II 0 III 0 IV 0 V 2,074.97 VI 2,833.56 VII 3,647.93 VIII 5,650.38 IX 7,518.97 X 11,378.86 If DECIL I to IV you will pay nothing.

IMSS IMSS is also a government healthcare program mostly for employees but some expats join. The annual fee is approximately $400 and renewed annually. For those with pre-existing conditions you are normally declined. First year's coverage is almost non-existent but second year is much improved and subsequent years provides full coverage. Part of the decision to join IMSS vs Seguro Popular is availability of hospitals and clinics and annual fee.

Advance Directive Planning for Important Health Care Decisions An advance health care directive, also known by some as living will, personal directive, advance directive, or advance decision, is a legal document in which a person specifies what actions should be taken for their health if they are no longer able to make decisions for themselves because of illness or incapacity. In Mexico, people should obtain a new advance directive and not rely on having one written elsewhere and in English. A notario can assist you. If you have one from another country it needs to be translated by a certified translator and notarized. It is usually less expensive to simply make a new advance directive. Cost is typically 2000 pesos plus when needed 400 pesos for a certified translator.

Original: www.soniadiaz.mx/ health-care.html

Bye birdie?

by Orlando Gotay, Tax Attorney

C

ourtesy of Senator Orrin Hatch (R-UT) and your Congress, it is now law.

Those with “seriously delinquent tax debt” (greater than $50,000) risk having U.S. passports not renewed or revoked. The tax provision was part of the Transportation bill president Obama signed into law on December 4.

Don’t be fooled by the seemingly “large” number. It is remarkably easy to rack up $50k over one or more tax years. Interest and penalties also count.

If your passport expires within the next year or two, file for a renewal right away. The typical window for renewal is the preceding year but one is entitled to

Orlando Gotay Tax Attorney

it any time. If you end up on the list, State will definitely not renew.

Renewing now may be advantageous while a list is not yet compiled. Under the new law, revocation is not automatic (State “may” revoke, but “shall” not grant renewal). You may end up having a “good” passport for the duration of the existing one.

Of note, the law now requires a valid Social Security number on passport applications.

Hang on to old passports. They serve as evidence of citizenship when returning to the United States. A U.S. citizen has the absolute right to reenter, and an expired passport may provide evidence of citizenship at the U.S. Port of Entry.

The IRS must issue a notice to you of certifying the debt as “seriously delinquent”. A taxpayer can go to court for review…and the passport may stay alive during that time. Those with foreign addresses know that mail is sometimes not delivered.

In attempting to look like it created a “fair” process to take the right to travel away, Congress created some “due process” provisions. Affected citizens have the right to review in “regular” federal court or the U.S. Tax Court.

For those with dual nationality, the second passport may be critical as a travel document abroad, but useless to return to the U.S. Did you hold on to your old U.S. passport as I suggested?

The Fifth Amendment may protect a U.S. citizen’s right to international travel. Stay tuned.

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.

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

charities

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Dec. 17 - 23, 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, c a s a h o ga r _ m a x i m o c o rnejo@hotmail.com Centro Comunitario SETACGLBT – 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 situa-

tions. Donations & volunteers always welcome! Totally selffunded. 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. 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

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

23 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.

IFC Home Tours - Visit 4 magnificent homes. Buses leave Sea Monkey restaurant, at the foot of Aquiles Serdan, at 10:30am. Cost is $500 pesos. ($30USD) 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 IFC Home Tours - Visit 4 magnificent homes. Buses leave Sea Monkey restaurant, at the foot of Aquiles Serdan, at 10:30am. Cost is $500 pesos. ($30USD) 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 - 9:30am2pm 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.

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Dec. 17 - 23, 2015 www.vallartatribune.com