Issue 990, March 24 - 30, 2016 by Vallarta Tribune

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News

DENGUE VACCINE

March 24 - 30, 2016 Year 19 Free Issue 990

Real Estate MOVING TO VALLARTA

Easter HOLY WEEK CREATIVITY

Courtesy of Ayuntamiento de Puerto Vallarta

Featured property

now distributed in sayulita!

pg. 13

welcome

Welcome to Puerto Vallarta

and Riviera Nayarit Here is some advice to make your trip a little easier and more enjoyable. TIME ZONE: The entire state of Jalisco is on Central Time, as is the southern part of the State of Nayarit starting from Guayabitos in the north. BUSES: A system of urban buses with different routes can bring you from one end of the bay to the other and all the spots in between. Current fare in Puerto Vallarta 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. 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

March 24 - 30, 2016 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

Emergencies: 060 Red Cross: 065 Non-Emergency Police 322.290.0507 Fire Department: 322.223.9476

Ambulance: 322.222.1533 Consulates American Consulate Nuevo Vallarta: 322.222.0069 24 hrs Guadalajara: 333.268.2145 Canadian Consulate 322.293.2894 24 hrs: 1.800.706.2900

Ahoy Cruisers! 24-mar Norwegian Jewel 29-mar Westerdam 30-mar Carnival Miracle 31-mar Norwegian Jewel

2,376 1,916 2,124 2,376

Immigration: 322.224.7719 Consumer Protection: 01.800.468.8722 Tourism Offices Jalisco: 322.221.2676 Nayarit: 322.297.1006

In port this month Day Ship

Passengers

In the month of March Puerto Vallarta welcomes 38,566 passengers!

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

March 24 - 30, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Editor’s

Note

editor@vallartatribune.com

his is the week where everything takes longer, which if you’re beachfront with an empty margarita glass, or in traffic trying to turn left at the entrance to Fluvial, it can be a pain. But the energy of the town - the smiles you see on the faces of those who are so thankful to be here, if only for a few days ,and all the great events happening make this a wild fun couple of weeks. If you’re looking to truly experience all that is a SPRING BREAK in Mexico, head to the Malecon where it will be reasonably crowded at 10pm and a sardine can at midnight. While things are definitely busy already, this Friday is the great kick-off of the weekend with the Ky-Mani Marley headlining Reggae Fest happening from 4-10:30pm at the Flamingos event area behind the Mega in downtown Puerto Vallarta. Around town there are lots of great bands and DJ’s in town playing in local hot spots. Check out the Jazz Foundation just off the Malecon for some great live music, Patio de Mi Casa is another jem. Strana, Mandala and Barra Bar are great nightclubs that get going after midnight and go until 5-6am. Nacho Daddy’s, Cap’t Dons, Que Pasa? and El Rio BBQ up in Paso Ancho are also worth checking out for an older/locals scene with live music and great food. In Bucerias the strip of beachfront restaurants always have lots going on with live music and it’s not as crazy packed as it is on Los Muertos beach in Old Town. Head to Destiladeras Beach, just past La Cruz for some wide open spaces and a really wonderful beach that is great for the kids. Sayulita will be wall to wall with the younger spring break crowd – not for everybody, but there is a reason why this town is so popular. The aftermath of Semana Santa can be pretty scary. The piles of garbage along the beach and in the streets are tough to look at, espe-

cially when you have been trained most of your life to recycle, and at the very least, not to litter. But the fact is the garbage needs to be picked up and for those of use who call this place home year round, we don’t want to see the plastic and Styrofoam in the ocean killing the wildlife. So please consider what you’re doing with your garbage, take it away from the already burdened cans in the high traffic areas and dispose of it properly. If you can, take a few extra plastic bags with you when you go out and pick up some trash. If nothing else the sea turtles, whales, sea birds and dolphins will thank you. Here are some small nuggets of wisdom/common sense. This will seem like a no brainer but DO NOT DRINK AND DRIVE. The laws here are strict and expensive. You will lose your vehicle, go to jail and pay upwards of $1000 if you are caught. If you are in an accident, even with insurance, you can spend days in jail waiting for the insurance adjusters to sort it out. Really, best advice… taxi, bus, walk. Confirm the fare BEFORE you get in the taxi and make note of the taxi number (those big numbers on the side of the door) so if you lose something you can call to follow up. Drinking in public is tolerated if you put your drinks in non-breakable containers – See all those styrofoam cups?...full of beer. For all you guys out there – urinating in public (gross!!) is seriously frowned upon. You might get away with it late night back home but here it’s a night in jail and/or a hefty fine. Finally, its crazytown. Keep you wads of cash at home, and distribute the money you do take out around your body. Don’t bring out all your ID or cash/credit cards. Leave your expensive phones or fancy jewels. There are some bad eggs in every crowd and anyone flashing anything of value is a target. Don’t let any of that deter you. It’s just common sense and if I were visiting you during a madhouse weekend you’d tell me the same stuff. Feliz Semana Santa! Madeline

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Not to be missed!

Ky-Mani Marley & Kassiano at Reggae Fest

uerto Vallarta will host the first edition of the Reggae Festival, which will bring Ky-Mani Marley, son of legendary musician Bob Marley, to Puerto Vallarta on March 25, 2016 from 4:00 until 10:30 pm. The musical event will feature an international lineup, including Kassiano, Konfrontation Band, La Yaga, and the Maurice Englishman & the Profile Band, among others. This is an historic event because

it is the first time that Marley will be among the groups participating in the festival, with the talent and charisma of the dynasty that brought Reggae to the ears of the world. Approximately 10,000 Reggae-lovers are expected to come together for this unique festival. The 2016 Vallarta Reggae Festival is conveniently located in the oceanside Flamingos event area (Centro de Espectáculos

Flamingos Puerto Vallarta), in the south Hotel Zone behind the Mega Grocery and Department Store. You may choose between Regular tickets in the main area with no seating or the VIP Lounge tickets which includes lounge seating areas, waiters, open bar, free appetizers, shaded area and a large-screen event monitor. Tickets are $280 pesos and can be purchased at vallartaticket.com

Old Town Farmers Marke Treat Yourself to Chiropractic Ca By Erin Staley

ure, the Old Town Farmers Market-Tianguis Cultural is loaded with an abundance of farmfresh produce and flowers, ready-to-eat foods, traditional Mexican handcrafts, fashions, accessories, body products and unique gifts, but did you know that we also have some good-for-you services? If your body is aching for an "ahh" kind of chiropractic treatment, then check out the talent and expertise of American-trained, board-certified Dr. Erik Fulfer.

Meet Erik Fulfer, DC

Cell. 322 134 4162 MEXICO, (952) 583 0329 USA & CANADA info@muchococo.com www.muchococo.com

Dr. Fulfer is the proud owner and practitioner of Bahia Chiropractic & American Chiropractic. He started his professional journey by following in the footsteps of his grandfather, a World War II veteran-turned-chiropractor. Fulfer enlisted in the U.S. Military. He served four years with the 82nd Airborne Division and the 508th Airborne Battalion. He was honorably discharged from the U.S.

Army in 1994. Then, like his grandfather who attended chiropractic school in the 1950s, Fulfer went on to complete his science-based undergraduate studies in order to attend the largest chiropractic institution in the country at the time. Fulfer graduated from Life University School of Chiropractic in March 2000. He successfully passed all four

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.

parts of the National Board of Chiropractic Exams, as well as the physical therapist exams. In the following nine years, Dr. Fulfer applied every bit of his training to helping patients reclaim health and vitality with his Atlanta-based practice, serving as Associate DC, Clinic Director and owner.

Big Dreams in Mexico

Although Dr. Fulfer was fulfi-

lling his life's passion in the U.S., he dreamt of practicing chiropractic care in Mexico. He shared this dream with his wife, Michelle, and their daughter, Sofia. It took them three years, but they finally arrived to the Banderas Bay area in 2010.

Same Day, On-Site Chiropractic Care In 2011, Dr. Fulfer joined over

et - Tianguis Cultural are at the OTFM-TC

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

Bay from his Bucerias office. It's conveniently located inside the Mega store across from the Flamingos Golf Course. Appointments are available on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9:00 am - 1:00 pm and 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm. To make a Bucerias-based appointment, call (044) 322-180-7393 or email megachiropractic(at)gmail. com. To learn more about Dr. Fulfer and his approach to chiropractic care, visit BahiaChiropractic.com.

Yoga Class

Artisan Bakery

Due to a limited response, the yoga class is cancelled for the balance of the season. 80 vendors at the Vallarta's favorite weekend attraction: the OTFM-TC. His mission? To share his passion for good health and over 16 years of experience with international visitors. He set up a chiropractic table under a shaded tent and happily treated market goers to highly effective on-site treatments. Today, Dr. Fulfer continues to help thousands enjoy their stay in sunny Mexico without pain and

discomfort. And now you, too! Experience what it means to be free from troublesome symptoms. Stop by Dr. Fulfer's tent in Lazaro Cárdenas Park this Saturday for a same-day appointment.

Mobile Chiropractic Services Along the Bay Not only does Dr. Fulfer treat patients at the market, but he also operates Vallarta's only mobile chiropractic service.

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).

Don't miss out on the opportunity to have a chiropractic treatment in the comfort of your home, office, resort or spa. Dr. Fulfer's mobile service is available on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:30 am 6:00 pm. To schedule an Vallarta-based appointment, contact (044) 182-5045 or bahiachiro(at)gmail.com. Dr. Fulfer also serves the north side of the Banderas

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.

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news

Brothers plan to paddleboard from Alaska to Mexico

wo brothers from California have set off from Ketchikan to paddleboard to the U.S.Mexico border. Casey and Ryan Higginbotham set off from Ketchikan on Friday on two 18-foot paddleboards with the goal of hand paddling 100-miles to Prince Rupert, The Ketchikan Daily News reported. “We want adventure. That’s what we came for,” Casey Higginbotham said. The brothers intend to spend the next five months making the 2,200-mile journey. They are hauling 70 pounds of dehydrated food, clothing and survival gear on custom racks above their boards. Food drops are planned for every 200 miles. The Higginbothams say they hope to cover between 10 to 25 miles of coastline a day and tentatively say they’ll reach the end of their voyage in August. The brothers decided to make the trip about a year ago while seniors at Cal Poly State University in San Luis Obispo, California. The pair often goes on expeditions and adventures. “We were just shooting ideas back and forth in Ryan’s room, and it all kind of came together,” Casey Higginbotham said. “And, you know how a lot of ideas kind of never come to fruition, but we just kept processing it, like, ‘All right, let’s really do it. We’ll start working with shapers (for the paddleboards), start working with companies (for sponsors) and all right, here we go. Let’s do it.’ And now we’re here in Ketchikan.” According to the Guinness World Records, the longest padd-

leboard journey on record is an eight-day, 345-mile trek up the Florida coast in 2007. The Higginbothams said the trip is about escaping the 9-to-5 mentality and connecting with nature. “That’s the cool thing about it to me, because in your everyday life, there’s so many different things you have to worry about - I don’t know, people calling you, paying rent, normal things that you worry about on a day-to-day basis,” Ryan Higginbotham said. “Now all our day is going to be about food, water, warmth, and getting to where we need to go - completing the day’s goal of paddling - and hopefully getting some footage.” The brothers will be documenting their trip with video cameras and are collaborating with a filmmaking friend to create a documentary when the voyage is finished. They will be transmitting their progress on their website and with a Spot beacon. Original: www.washingtontimes. com

March 24 - 30, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Dengue vaccine proves 100% effective in human trials

By K.G Orphanides

n experimental vaccine against the dengue virus has been found to protect 100 percent of recipients in a clinical trial carried out by the USA's National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID). In the NIAID trial 21 people were vaccinated with TV003, while 20 received a placebo. Six months later they returned to be infected with a mild version of dengue-2. All 21 people who'd received the vaccine were protected against infection. All 20 members of the placebo group contracted dengue. A modified version of the vaccine is now being developed in an attempt to treat the related Zika virus. TV003 is a live attenuated vaccine, meaning that, like measles, mumps, and flu vaccines, it's made by creating a greatly weakened version of the virus it's designed to combat. Specifically, this vaccine involves a combination of four recombinant dengue vaccine candidate viruses, designed to combat all four major dengue virus serotypes. The volunteers who received the vaccine experienced no ill effects from it and developed only a mild rash, which they didn't notice and which vanished entirely in five to ten days. All subjects successfully developed antibodies against dengue. Dengue virus is related to Zika and both are primarily spread by the Aedes mosquito. There are four major dengue serotypes - related strains that can be distinguished by their cell surface antigens - plus a recently classified fifth strain only known to have caused one infection. Dengue is widespread

in tropical and subtropical regions, including large parts of Africa, Central and South America, Asia and the Caribbean. Human challenge studies of this kind, in which volunteers are exposed to disease-causing pathogens under highly controlled conditions, are an important tool for testing the viability of vaccines on a small scale before carrying out larger, most costly trials. Such trials can only safely be carried out using viruses that are known to have mild effects, such as this version of dengue-2. Stephen Whitehead, Ph.D., of the NIAID, developed the dengue-2 challenge virus used in this trial by genetically modifying a dengue-2 serotype virus that was isolated in the Kingdom of Tonga in 1974. The original virus was notable for causing only mild illness, and previous tests have shown that the challenge virus causes recipients to develop viremia, the presence of virus in the blood, but with only a mild rash

eTA inclusion fails to take effect on Tuesday

exico was supposed to have been added to Electronic Travel Authorization system A break for Mexicans traveling to Canada did not go into effect this week as planned, and Canadian officials say a new date has not been set. Mexican citizens who had held a Canadian visa during the past 10 years, or who were in possession of a United States visa, were to be allowed to enter Canada under

the Electronic Travel Authorization system, or eTA, as of Tuesday. Under the plan announced last April by then-prime minister Stephen Harper, Mexico was to be included on the list of countries eligible for eTA. It would have enabled eligible Mexican travelers to enter Canada without applying for a new visa. A spokesman for Citizenship and Immigration Canada said Mexico continues to remain

outside eTA, as do Brazil, Bulgaria and Romania, countries that were also to be included as of Tuesday. The Canadian government has announced that the visa rule for Mexicans will be eliminated but there has been no further word on that. It has been an issue of concern to the Mexican government since the rule was imposed in 2009. MexicoNewsDaily.com

as its worst symptom. Clinical trial lead Dr. Anna Durbin said that, "We were pleasantly surprised to see that this candidate vaccine provided complete protection in everyone who received it. The dengue-2 serotype is considered the relatively weaker component in this, and other, candidate dengue vaccines, so its ability to confer protection from a challenge with dengue-2 virus was encouraging." "The findings from this trial are very encouraging to those of us who have spent many years working on vaccine candidates to protect against dengue, a disease that is a significant burden in much of the world and is now endemic in Puerto Rico," said Whitehead. "In fact, these results informed the recent decision by officials at Brazil's Butantan Institute to advance the TV003 vaccine into a large phase 3 efficacy trial."

Original: www.wired.co.uk

travel

March 24 - 30, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

New Flights, Luxury Hotels in Puerto Vallarta

our operators, hoteliers and agents are touting Puerto Vallarta’s popularity these days. International visitor numbers for 2015 reached close to the two million mark. If the first quarter of 2016 is any indication, those numbers will rise even more. Airlift to Puerto Vallarta has traditionally been seen as an obstacle from many parts of the country. “Cancun and the Riviera Maya are so easy to get to from pretty much everywhere. Puerto Vallarta is more of a hike. So, it typically does best with travelers from Chicago and farther west,” said Gina West, regional sales manager, Northeast USA for Apple Leisure Group. New lift from Southwest, Volaris and Air Canada may help turn the tide. “We’re having best season here in ages with new flights, even charters from London, if the trend holds, our high season will break records,” explains Zachary Rabinor, director general and CEO of the Puerto Vallarta-based Journey Mexico. Matt Schumacher, owner of

Travel Troops, hopes to take his agents on a FAM to Puerto Vallarta later this year. “We’re selling more Puerto Vallarta than Los Cabos at the moment. We sell it as a different experience. It can feel like there’s a bunch of laid-back hippies there that moved in and never left. It’s very eclectic, and has a real downtown area, which is nice,” says Schumacher. On the hotel front, there’s news in the luxury segment. Hotel Mousai holds the distinction of earning the AAA Five Diamond award faster than any hotel in Mexico. It’s a sister property to the Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa. The W Punta de Mita is scheduled to open in May at the exclusive Los Veneros oceanfront development. Its debut will make Mexico the only Latin American country with two W hotels. The property will have 120 guest villas, a 4,000 square-foot spa, bar lounge, and signature W Living Room, among other amenities. Tourism officials from Puerto Vallarta and the Riviera Nayarit

continue their joint efforts to promote the region, though they’re from neighboring states. Rabinor thinks it’s a good concept. “There have been lots of efforts to market as a whole. The entire country needs more integrated marketing actually. We specialize in itineraries that bridge state borders, so we support the unified efforts,” he said. There’s also renewed interest

in the surfing village of Sayulita. Located about 45 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta. In December, the federal government added Sayulita to the list of "Pueblos Magicos" or "Magic Towns.” The decree recognizes it as a location with special symbolic features, historical significance, natural beauty or cultural riches. On the infrastructure front, tourism officials have announced a major renovation at the port of

Puerto Vallarta. The $20 million project will take place over the next five years. It will include a new welcome center for passengers, as well as a shopping area and aquarium. “Something on the horizon that’s opening soon is the new W Hotel in Punta Mita. Of course, we have Hotel Mousai which opened a year ago and is terrific,” said Rabinor. Original: travelagentcentral.com

W Brings Signature Whatever/Whenever Service to Punta de Mita By Dawna L. Robertson

ou can always count on Starwood Hotels & Resorts to enhance a top travel destination with one of its 11 global brands. This May, the company will extend its presence in Mexico with the debut of uber cool W Punta de Mita. The 120-villa luxury retreat will join Starwood’s 120-room St. Regis and a 173-room Four Seasons in the 1,500-acre Punta de Mita resort and residential community. On a private spear-shaped peninsula surrounded by white sand beaches, the Pacific Ocean and lush tropical flora in Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit, this destination is lauded for its superb snorkeling, fishing, diving, surfing and pair of Jack Nicklaus Signature golf courses. This site is more than fitting for the W newbie among Starwood’s design-driven luxury lifestyle brand of 46 hotels and retreats. Sensory environments cater to guests with insider access via a unique mix of

cutting-edge design and passions merging fashion, music and entertainment. “With the opening of W Punta de Mita, Mexico will become be the only country in Latin America to boast two W hotels, demonstrating its continued position as one of the most in-demand travel markets in the world,” said Jorge Giannattasio, senior vice president and chief of Latin America Operations for Starwood Hotels & Resorts. “We are thrilled to announce this deal

as we continue to look for opportunities to bring our world-class hotel brands to the best destinations around the globe.” According to Victor Vazquez, Starwood Latin America’s vice president of Development and Acquisitions, the company is growing at an exciting pace in Latin America. “And the W brand is a key player in this growth,” he said. “Throughout the region, Starwood’s momentum is being driven by our ability to provide distinct design-led

brands that exceed the expectations of developers, owners and travelers alike.” Vazquez adds that with more than 25 million international tourists annually, Mexico continues to be an important and growing market for Starwood — particularly for its luxury hotel brands. “W Punta de Mita will be the perfect addition to this booming landscape, offering the vibrancy and style that is unique to the W brand.” Convenience is also key at the

oceanfront development, located roughly 10 miles from Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR) and 15 miles from downtown Puerto Vallarta. Riviera Nayarit’s plush diversions add to the W Punta de Mita’s appeal with snorkeling excursions, zip lines that let visitors soar above the jungle treetops, a chance to conquer the Sierra Madre Mountains on ATVs and a breathtaking sunset on an evening sailing cruise.

entertainment

March 24 - 30, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Only a few events left at Luna Lounge

By: Debbie White

ast week was a busy, exciting week. Sunday night, Luna Lounge moved to La Penita (45 minutes up the coast) for ONE NIGHT ONLY to bring 2 great shows to that community. There was an impressive turnout for the tribute show, This is Tom Jones, starring Dave LaFame and The Crazy Bitches show. Zapata 32 in downtown La Penita was the location for this special night and the response from those that attended was very positive! The week continued back in Bucerias with Monday's 2 X 1 Rib night with The New Coyote Band followed by The Crazy Bitches show on Tuesday and Wednesday. Thursday night was the much anticipated, annual Saint Patrick's Day extravaganza starting at 1pm and ending at midnight. Irish native and beloved owner, Hugh Gaffney and his mum, Alice, were on hand to give everyone a friendly Irish welcome! The staff were flying around all day and night taking care of the packed house! There was the traditional bill of fare that included corned beef and cabbage, along with Guinness stew and the drinks were flowing the entire day and night! Traditional Irish music was played throughout the day and LIVE music was featured all evening, with the Calavera Beach band from 6 to 8 pm and the Los Carajos band from 9 to midnight. As always, Luna Lounge was the best place to be on Saint Patrick's Day! On Friday night, the highly acclaimed show, Rocky Mountain High, The Music of John Denver, featuring Paul Aleman and Renee Armand drew enthusiastic applause and cheers from the audience. This extraordinary, LIVE performance, featuring two beautiful voices with guitar accompaniment was one the best shows of the season at Luna Lounge. Paul and Renee (a John Denver band member who performed with John for 6 years and an academy award winning songwriter) together presented the music of John Denver along with wonderful background stories from the road. Paul alternated between his 6 string and 12 string guitars, playing and singing flawlessly. Renee's harmonies were stunningly beautiful.

We heard songs like, "Rocky Mountain High," "Annie's Song," "Leaving on a Jet Plane," and "Boy From the Country." Renee also performed a famous, original that she co-wrote with Hoyt Axton, called "Boney Fingers" that the audience absolutely loved!! She sang another original, "I Want to Go to Mexico" that was hauntingly truthful and beautiful. Her version of Emmy Lou Harries', "I don't Want to Hear No Love Song" was also breathtaking. Coming up on Thursday and Friday, March 24th and 25th at Luna Lounge, is a Blues Brothers tribute show. Experience the craziness of The Blues Brothers with this exciting tribute to the lovable Chicago delinquents, Jake and Elwood Blues. You'll see the "men in black" dance and jump around, belting out the best rockin' blues you've ever heard, on their "mission from God". This action packed show will have you clapping, singing and laughing till you cry! Luna Lounge ends its season of entertainment with a very special show! On Thursday and Friday, March 31st and April 1st, presents, Truly Tina, a tribute to iconic musical star, Tina Turner. This show will finish up the incredible, blockbuster series of dinner/shows that have thrilled North Shore audiences this season. Truly Tina is performed by Samira, who provides full on energy, sweat and a powerful voice that will have you standing and dancing in the aisles. You'll swear it's Tina Turner. With the big hair and all the energy of the 70s and 80s along with those wild and provocative costumes, Truly Tina is sure to please! Don't miss Las Vegas veteran and world class entertainer, Samira in Truly Tina, as Luna Lounge closes out its season. Come out during the final days of March and enjoy the fantastic food and first class entertainment at Luna Lounge. Every Monday is 2 X 1 Rib Night with The New Coyote Band. And on Tuesday and Wednesday nights, The Crazy Bitches drag show continues. Don't miss out on some of the best entertainment of the season throughout March. For tickets or more information about the dinner/shows and Luna Lounge's weekly schedule of events go to: www.lunaloungebucerias.com.

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March 24 - 30, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

The Palm Cabaret’s Bohemia Viva selected for USA Tour with The National Hispanic Cultural Center

ohemia Viva celebrates the conclusion of their very successful third season at The Palm Cabaret and Bar, and their exciting upcoming debut in the United States, with two Special Events at their final shows on Saturday, March 26 and Saturday, April 2, beginning at 6:00 p.m. Argentina’s Luis Lujan and Andrea Mottura, best known as ‘Bohemia Viva’, are poised to make their U.S. debut and they’re ready to celebrate! As part of their two final performances at The Palm this season, and as a special thank you to all of their loyal fans and supporters, there will be a reception before each of their final shows, beginning at 6:00 p.m. (show time 7:00 p.m.). They will welcome some special guests, and include some of the flavors of Argentina, prepared locally, featuring a variety of traditional Argentine hors-d'oeuvres. There will also be a special selection of Argentine wines available at a discount, along with The Palm’s regular cocktail bar. Luis and Andrea are very excited to share the news about their recent successful bid to perform in the United States at The National Hispanic Cultural Center (NHCC) in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Pat Bryan, a dear friend and former Albuquerque attorney, introduced them to the NHCC Performing Arts Program Director Joseph Wasson. After a successful vetting process, along with the NHCC’s sponsorship, they applied for and were granted a one-year U.S. visa to travel to New Mexico to help promote the NHCC’s Performing Arts Program, beginning next summer. They will also perform at the South Broadway Cultural Center, The Cell Theater, and The Kimo Theater in Albuquerque, and at the Lensic Theater in Santa Fe, NM. Luis and Andrea also plan to visit and perform in Palm Springs and San Francisco, CA, where they will debut

their new show, ‘Kaleidoscope’, which they will bring back to The Palm in Puerto Vallarta next season. More information and updates about specific performance dates and locations will be available at www. Bohemiaviva.com and http://www.nhccnm. org/ in the coming months. Luis and Andrea extend a special thank you to The Palm’s Entertainment Director Tracy Parks, Miss Coco Peru, John Randall, and Pat Bryan for their key support and assistance in making their dream to perform in the United States a reality. Join Luis and Andrea for these special final shows and celebrations, March 26 and April 2, beginning at 6:00 p.m. (show time 7:00 p.m.) Tickets and more information at the link below.

Now Playing Kay Sedia L.A. based drag comedian, Kay Sedia, recently debuted her new music and comedy show, ‘Taco Kisses’, taking audiences on a spicy journey through comical stories and live singing parodies in her all-new “juan woman cho”, March 22 – 31.

Alain Perreault

Actor/Director Alain Perreault stars in ‘My Broadway, Anyway’, a cabaret performance with a personal glimpse into the musical theatre world. With an appealing selection of Broadway songs, special guests, and complemented with compelling storytelling. Final performance this season, March, 28 at 4:00 p.m.

Amy Armstrong & Bohemia Viva

Amy Armstrong, affectionately known as the gal with ‘the voice of an angel, and the mouth of a sailor’, performs both music and comedy in her show, ‘Spanglish II’, with Argentine Duo Bohemia Viva through April 3. Amy also stars in her all new show,

‘Mama’s Big Ones’ The Life and Music of Cass Elliot (Mama Cass) accompanied by Jean-Guy Comeau at the piano through March 29 (see calendar).

Miss Conception

Kevin Levesque (a.k.a. Miss Conception) stars in ‘Miss Conception Goes To The Movies’. In this music/comedy extravaganza, Miss C. thrills audiences with her tribute to the movies with all live singing, high-energy dance numbers and Vegasworthy original costumes. Now Playing Mondays and Thursdays at 9:30 p.m. through April 4.

Kim Kuzma

Kim Kuzma stars with her band of talented musicians in ‘Acústico’ on Sundays and Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m. through April 3. Kim also stars in the all-new hugely popular, ‘Diva’ Celebrating the Music of Annie Lennox with Jean-Guy Comeau at the piano. Final performances March 22 at 4:00 p.m. and March 25 at 7:00 p.m. (added show).

Luna Rumba Award-winning live local band Luna Rumba’s popularity in the Banderas Bay area is soaring, selling out show after show. A tapestry of Latin Fusion, Gypsy-Flamenco, and more, this band is on fire! Their final performance of the season at The Palm will be Friday, April 1 at 7:00 p.m. The Palm is well known for bringing high-quality, cutting-edge entertainment to Vallarta. Inside you’ll find an intimate 90-seat cabaret with outstanding sound and lighting, creating the ambiance of cabarets from days gone by. Two shows are scheduled nightly seven days per week, with matinees at 4:00 p.m. for select shows through early April, 2016. The Palm is located at Olas Altas #508, in Zona Romantica. Tickets may be purchased online and at the box office (322-222-0200). A full calendar of performances, information and online tickets are available at www. ThePalmPV.com. You can also find The Palm Cabaret and Bar on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ThePalmPV/

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From Here by Marcia Blondin marciavallarta@gmail.com

couple of days ago I received this email. (I have edited it somewhat but read

on…) “As a winter visitor from the United States, I enjoy reading The Tribune. Entertaining and informative; especially your column. Last week you wrote, ‘please help our tourists - if you are on a bus, for example, and overhear questions about where something is, turn around and tell them. MAKE ONE TOURIST HAPPY EVERY DAY...’ A great idea I thought, and one I have experienced: I was standing at the bus stop by the plaza trying to fix my broken sunglasses. A lovely lady came up to me and said, ‘I see your sunglasses are broken. I have an extra pair... please take them.’ And off she went! I was stunned, although I did manage to say ‘thank you’. She must have read your column! Certainly made my day... and I am still smiling. Keep up the good work: You do make a difference.” Commentary like that keep us motivated every week; thanks to Emmy for making ME smile! I took the bus to the Luna Lounge in Bucerias to say hello

to Hugh and Simon, the kind owners, and to say goodbye to Paul Aleman and Renee Armand who were performing their last concert of John Denver songs for us that night. The Luna Lounge is decidedly eclectic: it has the outdoor vibe of El Rio that tingles with anticipation for great food and great entertainment. It also reminded me of Munich at Oktoberfest with long banquet-style tables; intimate it is not. Fun? Cheerful? Engaging? Friendly? Yes, to all. I was comfortable from the second I set foot in the door. I spent an hour with Paul and Renee catching up on all their news past and forthcoming – both musically and personally; their concert under the moonlight, fabulous as always. I saw lots of people from Vallarta, some slow danced and one lovely French Canadian gentleman gave Renee a huge bouquet of lilies. The food was excellent! A great ordering/delivery system, everything cooked on the grill in front of all and sundry and nothing came out of a box! I think the best mushroom soup I have ever had. Luna Lounge is winding down their season with two Tribute shows left – Blues Brothers this

weekend and Tina Turner, next. They have had an extraordinary winter and I wish Hugh, Simon and their excellent crew a lovely summer. And, the line-up for next season – in the planning stages, of course – will ensure packed houses every night. It doesn’t get better than that. Good Friday will take on a whole new meaning after this one on March 25th. The Reggae Festival will take place behind Mega in that wonderful open space that hosted Mana’s concert years ago. Get tickets beforehand (vallartatickets.com) and save some dinero for refreshments during the show. Did I mention Bob Marley’s son will be on stage? Kymani Marley and Kassiano and lots more entertainers from Vallarta and Guadalajara. Doors open at 3 pm. I will see you there! If your music intake is still not full, head to El Rio BBQ Bar in Paso Ancho for a taste of Chicago zaniness Saturday night with the Blues Brothers. Singing, dancing and Missions from God ought to keep you entertained under a waning full moon zapped with laser lights. You have to be there to understand what I just said! The next two weeks (speaking of insanity) will be busy. Everywhere. To do something really helpful this Semana Santa instead of complaining, leave your house with a couple of extra plastic bags and just pick up whatever you find offensive that missed getting into the garbage can. I hope all your Easter bunnies are happy ones!

March 24 - 30, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Comings and Goings – Previews and Reviews

Elviz Martinez

By Marcia Blondin Comings….Alain Perreault, one of Vallarta’s few, true Bon Vivants, has his final cabaret appearance at the Palm, March 28. I have seen all three prior productions of “My Broadway, Anyway” and will be at the matinee this coming Monday to see what he has added and what he has taken away. It has been a memorable journey for Alain to publicly remark on his experiences on, and way-the-hell-off Broadway over the last 30 years. A learning experience for the audience as well, peppered with the usual Show tunes – and some unusual ones - all performed ‘a la Alain’. Because he has been in Montreal, I haven’t learned any secrets that are bound to pop up during Alain’s final show, so please join me at the Palm, 4 pm, Monday, March 28 and we’ll find out together. …and Goings… on in the Red Room A Love-Story-with-Vallarta at its core is Elviz Martinez in concert. Opening night of “All of Me”, March 19th, with Elviz, Bob Bruneau on piano and a percussionist with a

light touch, played to old friends, new ones and a couple of cast mates from various productions from this current season in attendance. For those who had never heard Elviz sing solo before, the concert was fun, lively, entertaining and the room was very nearly full. For those of us who have known him for a few years, “All of Me” was metamorphasistic. (Is that a word?) Three seasons ago, if memory serves, Elviz sang and spoke mostly in Spanish, however, the reverse was true with this edition of “All of Me”. He even Anglicized some of his Spanish sentences that were hilarious; he had the audience laughing – often. He sang a love song he wrote for Pablo that was poignant and sweet. He danced, did a mashup of Mamas and Papas’ tunes and sang ‘Todo al Ganador’ with such power and contrasting softness that the audience leapt to their feet as one before the final note was finished. Go and witness the confident, sexy, loveable and charming young man – Elviz Martinez – every Saturday, in the Red Room to April 9. He has become a bright, shining STAR.

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March 24 - 30, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Colouring in Vallarta By Marcia Blondin

ow do you colour a city? A city in the tropics that can be so humid you can watch paint dry, then peel itself off a building. The Puerto Vallarta Garden Club is responsible for much of the beautification projects in the City of Vallarta. They receive no government funding at all and depend 100% on donations from you. You who marvel at a Sorpresa (Surprise) Bougainvillea in glorious bloom and wonder how one plant can have fuchsia and white blooms and also have a blend of those two colors? All of the projects that the Garden Club would like to do have to be approved by the City Administration (of course!). They have nurtured a cooperative relationship with the Vallarta Tourism Board and City officials and the Garden Club is now working closely with Señora Belani Fong, Lic. Juan Jose Navarro Amaral and Señor Fernando Vazquez, members of the Ecological Committee of Vallarta. They lend the PVGC an open ear and try to help untangle

summer school arts program sparked his interest in art, which led to his liberation from a West Virginia coal mining town. “I always supported myself with my talent,” Bill explains. After winning a scholarship to the New York School of Contemporary Art at the age of 17, he went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in design at San Jose State University followed by graduate school in painting at San Francisco State University. Although his career has morphed from interior design for commercial retailers to oil painting, remodeling homes and curating a museum, “It’s all the same, putting objects in space beautifully... paying attention to color, form, composition,” he says. Bill was very successful at commercial interior design for stores like Sak’s Fifth Ave and Macy’s until age 37. His inspiration is “totally from nature, anything from a home garden to the jungle.” For Bill, painting is “meditation in action. It heightens your ability to see. Lush jungle settings with tropical plants, flowers and fruits, country landscapes occasionally dotted with livestock, and a few cityscapes all draw one into the paintings.

the red tape whenever possible. This group of enthusiastic, hardworking volunteers, who dedicate countless hours every year, have one simple goal: make Vallarta more beautiful. Future plans are to plant palm trees, tropical flowers and ground cover from the International Airport to the end of Olas Altas in the Romantic Zone. Work has been ongoing for several years

and before-and-after photographs of so many parts of the city are incredible. Work is ongoing daily: weeding, planting, pruning, painting planters and watering; the only piece of the puzzle that catches a break with rainy season! The couple of events sponsored by the PVGC to raise awareness and money are delightfully anticipated every year.

Classic evenings full of music, fine dining, dancing and naturally, flowers. It takes a lot of money to colour a city and you don’t have to be here physically to help although if you love to garden, club members will put you to work! You can show your appreciation by becoming a member of the Puerto Vallarta Garden Club annually or simply make a donation.

Bill Megrail opens at Galleria Dante Friday, April 1, 2016 Cocktails 6 to 10 pm When Bill was in his 30’s he came to Puerto Vallarta from San Francisco for the first time for a two-week vacation and stayed five months, later returning for good. He loved the weather and “in the 70’s art was part of the (Vallarta) culture.” He divided his time between San Miguel de Allende and Vallarta, later choosing our port city for good. “It was all about the art and its appreciation,” he says. Since coming to the Puerto Vallarta area in the 70’s he has become a well-known name in the Mexican art community. And he’s been supporting community arts programs ever since, like Puerto Vallarta’s Cultural Center and the Peter Gray Art Museum, where he was curator for 5 years. Under his direction, the museum facilitated a community activity for local children who were given a tour, introduced to various forms of art through demonstrations, and then produced a painting of their own. During his illustrious 30-plus

year artistic career in Mexico, he has had showings at many galleries nationally, in the United States and London. His paintings have been printed in such publications as Mexicana Airline “In-Flight” Magazine (2 covers) and the Insider Guide to Mexico. In the 90’s he was invited to Southeast Asia on an art buying trip as an advisor. In 2004, the town of Damburg, Holland invited Bill to participate in the International Painters’ Week. He was also published in Architectural Digest December 2008 Exclusive Issue: Inside Private Homes. The client not only purchased many of Bill’s paintings, they also commissioned him to do a large painting for a focal point in their Villa. To Bill there was never any other kind of life. “If you’re an artist, what else can you do? There’s no choice. Anything else makes me absolutely insane. I can’t go to business meetings. If nobody ever bought another painting, I’d still paint.”

Every dollar/peso received is gratefully accepted. For more information go to www.vallartagardenclub.com And when you become a member of the Garden Club, you will be invited to attend an annual Garden Party that we celebrated this afternoon on the beautiful grounds of the Molino de Agua Condominiums. Help colour Vallarta beautiful!

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Ask

Visitors enjoy "Voices of the Sea"

a realtor

onch shells sounded at the setting of the sun on the Malecon in Puerto Vallarta this past March 21st, with an Aztec indigenous ceremony thanking the sun and the ocean and the earth this spring equinox. Coordinated with the Municipal Tourism office this Meso-Aztec ritual to commemorate the beginning of spring was open to all the public for viewing and participation, with many tourists and expats participating in the ceremony. Wearing the impressive ceremonial dress of the ancient Aztec people, participants and tourist gathered along different points of the Malecon to give thanks and bless the setting sun on the auspicious day of the Spring Equinox. Using the conch shell to symbolize the air that sustains humans and Mother Earth while dancing and chanting to the Aztec sun god in appreciation for the warmth and fire he brings as well as recognizing the inevitable cycle of the seasons and the riches they each

March 24 - 30, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

By Michael Green Broadwalk Realty

Q: What were the main reasons why you moved to Puerto Vallarta? What are the difficulties of living there? Allison, Calgary A: Great question; let me narrow them down to my top 5:

bring. The Voices of the Sea was a mix of cultural expressions that ultimately brought together many people from different walks of life in a shared moment of blessing and gratitude.

Final Performance

1. WEATHER: The sub tropical climate here is beautiful from October-June. Warm, sunny days, cool evenings, and a gentle breeze. A running joke I have with my friends during these months is whether it could be more perfect if it was one degree cooler or one degree warmer! We have yet to reach a consensus. 2. PEOPLE: The people here are warm, inviting and constantly smiling. They eagerly embrace foreigners and are incredibly well-natured. Mexicans live for the “moment”, they do not dwell in the past or fret about the future. I have made many great friendships here in PV and for this I am very grateful. 3. ACTIVITIES: Whether it is playing tennis (my personal passion), golfing, fishing, swimming, strolling the Malecon, browsing world class art galleries and shops, meeting new friends, learning a new language, volunteering for numerous charities or dining in gourmet restaurants, there is something here for everyone. You can expand your horizons and find your passion in Puerto Vallarta. 4. HEALTH: Not only do I lead a much healthier lifestyle here; eating fresh fish, fruit and vegetables and staying active, I also have access to great affordable healthcare. Major medical health care for my family (wife and two boys) is less than $1500 USD per year. A visit to the doctor is approximately $25 USD and they actually take time to sit down with you and talk to you about your illness; they will also inquire about your family and give you advice on wellness. 5. PACE OF LIFE: It moves slower here. Family is important. The elderly are cherished. Children are loved. The “little things in life” matter here. Streets close to host “alfresco” neighborhood block parties. It is hard to explain, but it

feels like my hometown did thirty years ago. Of course no place is perfect; here are some things that I find challenging: Hills and cobblestone roads can make walking (and driving for that matter!) difficult in some areas. There is the occasional language and cultural barrier. We have plenty of rain and high humidity in the summer. PV is almost a city now; it is not the charming little “pueblito” it used to be 10 years ago. Crowds, traffic, public security and urban planning are issues that need to be addressed. Prices are not what they used to be either, most basics are still relatively inexpensive, but the “splurges” (top restaurants, golf courses, 5 star hotels, luxury condominiums) have prices rivaling the US. Sorry, it is too hard to narrow my list down to the top 5, so here a couple more: 1. ROMANCE: Beautiful people, sultry weather, alluring scenery. Stroll hand in hand barefoot on sandy beaches during the day and be serenaded by traveling mins-

trels under starry skies at night. If that is not a perfect recipe for romance, I don’t know what is. 2. NATURAL BEAUTY: Everywhere you look in PV there is beauty. The sunsets here are truly miraculous. The emerald green jungle hillside is awe-inspiring. The tropical gardens are absolutely gorgeous. There are crystal blue skies, clear ocean water and miles and miles of sandy beaches. I am truly blessed to live here. Well, those are my reasons; I wish you luck in finding yours! I would also invite our readers to write in to the editor and let her know your reasons for being here in PV.

Do you have a question about Real Estate in Puerto Vallarta? Just ask! Active in local and national Real Estate boards; published author and acknowledged expert on Puerto Vallarta Real Estate, Michael Green moved here in 1997 to take advantage of the unsurpassed lifestyle PV offers. Mike can be reached at: pvgetaways@ hotmail.com

real estate

Perfect for work/live or family legacy

wo-story home located in the colonia of Versalles, which is convenient to Fluvial, Centro, the airport and points north. Architecturally designed, this well built home has three bedrooms, 3.5 baths and is a generous 328 m2 or 3,529.28 s.f.

The L-shaped lot is 768.74m2 with 500m2 available to convert into a garden or build other dwellings. Create your ideal live/work space or a family compound that generations can enjoy! Great potential! Finca Contreras 260 Viena,

Puerto Vallarta, Price: $595,000USD MLS #8152 Cochran Real Estate Harriet Murray harriet@casasandvillas.com 322 2280419 or cell 044 322 205 7550

March 24 - 30, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

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March 24 - 30, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Finding

Gastronomy and Celebrities at the Cuisine of the Sun Event

Your Purpose

his international food and wine festival to be celebrated in Nuevo Vallarta will feature chefs, mixologists, sommeliers and celebrities for five days of good taste, great beaches and luxurious surroundings. The successful combination of gastronomy and celebrity chefs is back again in Nuevo Vallarta from April 13-17 when the Villa La Estancia Luxury Beach Resort & Spa Riviera Nayarit will present its latest event: Cuisine of the Sun. The list of celebrity chefs is headed by US Foods’ Culinary Specialist, Penny Davidi, who will be joined by Michele Ragussis, Adam Gertler, Partick “Pat” Neely, Manouschka Guerrier, Martita Jara, Stephen Kalt, Rahm Fama and mixologist Mia Mastroanni. This international food and wine festival will also feature celebrities from the entertainment industry, including actor Dennis Haysbert, who already confirmed his attendance. “We’ll have cooking demos, brunch, wine tasting and great mixology demos put on by some of the best professionals in the industry. We’ll have various beach events, from fine dining to roasts by the shore and we’ll sip incredible drinks made from the most famous tequilas and liquors from unique destinations around Mexico and the world”, commented Olivier Coupat, General Manager of Villa La Estancia. “Villa La Estancia hit

Rhonda Zarate

rhondazaratelifestyle@gmail.com

The Beautiful Journey of Marriage

the mark with Cuisine of the Sun because it strengthens the long list of events already happening in the Riviera Nayarit,” said Marc Murphy, Managing Director of the Riviera Nayarit Convention and Visitors Bureau. “It’s truly ideal for the destination thanks to its combination of cuisine, beach, luxury, chefs

and celebrities. This is a tried and true formula that will guarantee the success of this event, which we hope will be the first of many more.” Follow the details for this new event in the Riviera Nayarit’s Villa La Estancia at their official site: http://cuisineofthesun.villagroupresorts.com/.

arriage is such a big deal in so many ways! Some might think of it as the greatest joy in life, while others look at it as a life sentence. Tonight, I am watching the final episode of the Bachelor. Please don’t judge me, I have no answers for why I am so engaged in this drama, but I am. I do question however, how two people, after only dating for two months can make the forever commitment to each other? In the beginning, everyone truly believes it will be their ‘happilyever-after’, dreaming of an eternity of love, roses and merry sunshine. However, as we all know, sometimes life can get turned upside down and inside out. Happily ever after is just not in the cards. I truly believe that the secret to a good marriage is; a big dash of chemistry, a pinch and splash of kindness, lots of respect - a whole lot of commitment and daily work. Becoming vulnerable, offering someone your whole heart can be very scary business. My parents are celebrating their 50th anniversary this year. They have had their up and downs, but they come for a generation that believes, “if something is broken, you fix it, you don’t throw it into trash.” In today’s society we are so used to instant results and constant stimulation, we need immediate gratification. When we don’t get it, we are quick to hit the eject button, instead of nurturing, watering, pulling the weeds, taking care of our special flower. When we do nurture it daily, the flower grows tall, strong and can weather any storm. Sometimes, we can get fixated, on the negative 20% in the relationship, tending to forget the 80% that is oh, so very good. It can be easy to forget, what attracted you to your partner in the first place. We must remind ourselves to be kinder to each other, going out of

our way to show our appreciation to our better half. I think a great marriage can be the best thing ever. I love being married and would feel lost without my husband. If you have more good days than bad, you laugh a lot together, you honestly think your spouse is smart cookie, you have a deep respect for each other, then you know you’re on the path to your happily ever after. As the years pass and beauty starts to fade, it really is about two souls that find each other intellectually stimulating, funny, someone you can really count on, that is loyal to you. If you can weather sickness, growing pains, lack of money, teenagers, different cultures, families; the list can go on and on. You know you can do anything you set your mind to, as two can is far easier than one can. I hope as your reading this you stop and remember why you fell in love with your sweetheart. If you happen to be having a rough patch, hunker down, do more weed pulling, watering, pampering your special flower. I promise you it will bloom again. All you need to do is give it tender loving care, every day, sit back and watch the beauty come to life. Homework: Plan an unbelievable surprise date for your love. Pull out all the bells and whistles, show them with action instead of words, how much you love them and how important they are to you. You will never regret it. Rhonda Zarate is a REALTOR/ LIFESTYLE COACH. To book a consultation with her, she can be found at rhondazaratelifestyle@ gmail.com or her Facebook Blog “Rhonda Zarate Lifestyle.”

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March 24 - 30, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

line and 20-40% should be acidic. The standard American diet and even most parts of Mexico now are highly acid-forming which makes it overwhelming for the body to remove excess acid. The staples being meat, dairy, eggs, sugar, wheat, corn, processed foods like refined sugars. These diets are notably deficient in fresh fruits, vegetables, seeds, nuts, legumes. It's easy to bring your health to optimal state, by simply adding whole, natural foods and less processed foods, regardless of the "diet" you are following, you are giving your body a chance to be in the best shape, functioning optimally so that you can do all of those things that you love with the people you love. *Note* Even though lemons and limes have an acidic nature, when in the body they become alkaline once fully metabolized. Drinking lemon or lemon essential oil (food grade) and water is highly alkalizing and very beneficial to the body's digestive system.

Paradise

and Parenting Leza Warkentin

info@wellnesslatina.com

Are you too acidic?

hen we think of acidic foods, we generally think of lemons, hot sauce or any kind of vinegar... but did you know that all foods are either acidic or alkaline and that your health depends on the kind of internal environment you're creating? Acid and alkaline balance is important to your health. The most important thing to know, is that too much acid in your body causes illness. It is based on the fact that the foods you eat can alter the PH of your body to more alkaline or acidic. Alkaline - acid balance is one of the great keys to excellent health. Mastering this in your diet, will

enable you to thrive. Acidity causes disturbances in your enzymes, demineralization and seriously harmful acid activity. If you're too acidic you may suffer from: lack of energy, depression, nervousness and agitation, conjunctivitis, tooth and gum disease, cracking at the corners of the your lips, burning in the bladder, inflamed intestines, leg cramping, dry skin, osteoporosis, dry skin, runny nose and chills, joint pain... The pH scale goes from 0 to 14. The optimal range a person's pH should be is over 7. Blood, lymph, and cerebral spinal fluid in the human body are designed to be slightly alkaline at a pH of 7.4. This is what you need to know to stay your absolute healthiest: 60-80% of your diet should be alka-

Marcella is a certified Wellness Lifestyle Coach helping people lead healthier lives with attention to compassion and sustainability in the world. Her mission is to empower you to become the best most vibrant version of yourself so that you are unstoppably fulfilling your dreams! She looks at the whole picture and helps you incorporate plant-strong nutrition, movement, and essential oils to support physical and emotional health. If you want to receive health and wellness updates about vibrant healthy living in Vallarta sign up for her newsletter at www. wellnesslatina.

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Mexico: Random people ask to take my picture at least three times on Easter break. Everyone wants proof that they met a guera on their Vallarta vacation. I should feel freakish but it’s strangely flattering. Canada: My mom takes my picture once or twice if the kids are busy at the time. Mexico: I get two weeks off. Canada: There’s a long weekend. Mexico: The weather is sunny, warm and breezy. Canada: The snow might be melting! Unless it’s -10. Or there’s a spring blizzard. Or it doesn’t feel like it. Mexico: I can go and see what’s new and blooming at the Vallarta Botanical Gardens. There’s always some flower bigger than my head that I haven’t seen before. Canada:I can dig through the snow and find some yellow-brown grass on my parents’ front lawn. Mexico: You can wear pretty, flowery Easter dresses everywhere you go, and never worry about being chilly. Canada: You can wear pretty, flowery Easter dresses everywhere you go, if you don’t mind that no one will see more than about six inches of them under your parka (unless the snow feels like melting). Mexico: I will never be alone, but I can go stare at an ocean whenever I want, as long as I don’t mind squeezing between three hundred thousand other turistas. Canada: I can go stare at an empty field of what will eventually be wheat or canola if I don’t mind being completely, eerily alone. Well, no matter, I’ll be at the beach this Easter break. I imagine I’ll see you there, unless you’re not a fan of crowds and you’ve decided you need some Me Time. But don’t forget that you’ll probably need your parka on that canola field.

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round this time of the year, most teachers are about ready for a break. I admit that it’s only been two and a half months since our last holiday. But teachers’ careers are measured to most others in a similar way that a dog’s life span is measured to a human’s. For example, two months to a teacher are about fourteen to an accountant. Imagine if you, as an accountant, worked for fourteen months straight? In a space where twenty short people spoke to you all at once, usually loudly and about what the other short people were doing to bother them? Probably you’d like to be alone. Probably you’d like some Me Time. Probably thousands and thousands of people packed into a small Mexican city on the coast isn’t the vacation situation a mental health advisor would recommend for you. Semana Santa in Puerto Vallarta is a vacation that is really quite unique. This is because a great portion of the Mexican population decides that it has quite a hankering to see the coast. All of the hotels fill up, plus all of the beaches where you are allowed to camp, and most of the beaches where you aren’t allowed to camp (and also the street parking in front of my house, where you will always find someone new, friendly and fond of banda music sleeping in their truck for several days in a row). I have had an ambiguous relationship with Semana Santa in Vallarta for as long as I have lived in Mexico. I love it because I have time to relax in my house and make blanket forts with my family, but if I go outside I have to be very near to very many people. But I like being a positive thinker. And it’s not long enough of a holiday to book a trip to Canada. So, to comfort myself, I compared what I’d be doing in Canada on Easter break to my activities in Mexico. It helps pass the time.

Latina

Marcella Castellanos

mommyinmexico.wordpress.com

My Semana Santa

Wellness

Same Owners Since 1981

Spanish Bloopers

Sandra Cesca

his column is for all of us who are still struggling with the Spanish language…and for those who just want to enjoy a good laugh! Although I have lived here seven years, I still make many mistakes with words that sound the same but are entirely different or with the same word that has double or triple meanings, some resulting in various degrees of embarrassment. Today’s story: PIE (FOOT) PIEL (SKIN) PIERNA (LEG) These three words all begin with the same three letters. And to make it more confusing, they are all parts of the body! For me, the only solution to remembering which was which was simply to memorize, memorize. Stay tuned…more body parts to come. Send me your bloopers and a little story to go with them: sandra.learn.vallarta@gmail.com

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riviera nayarit

March 24 - 30, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Fun on the Riviera Nayarit Cat Morgan www.rivieranayaritfun.com Cat@RivieraNayaritFun.com

ey everybody! Well…que milagro! (What a miracle!) The new road is finally completed from west end of La Cruz de Huanacaxtle to Punta de Mita. This is the new road that is replacing the stretch of the Punta de Mita Hwy that passes Destilideras beach. It has two lanes each direction, and it’s quick! The new intersection is large and a bit crazy! If you’re making a left to go to Sanzibar or the La Cruz playa, watch out closely for traffic. These photos are from my amigo John Pounder…Thanks John! AND… just in time for all of the Semana Santa people who will be going to Destilideras and Punta de Mita… the thousands of nationals that come to vacation on the playa every spring. Are you ready for Semana Santa? Every spring the nationals come to play on the playa for two weeks. The week before Easter and the week after. We are talking spring break for all of the college kids, and it’s also “family time” as everyone comes to party on the playa. They bring the coolers and food every day, some camping on the beach. At beaches like Guayabitos, where I have witnessed over 40,000 people on the beach, or Sayulita with 30,000 before, it’s wild! It’s super crazy with umbrella to umbrella; a virtual sea of umbrellas! San Pancho also packs them in, but not like Guayabitos and Sayulita.

One obvious problem is, where does everyone go to the bathroom? I’ll let you take a guess! LOL…albeit it’s not really a laughing matter. Another big issue is the trash on the beaches….it’s a lot of trash. Unfortunately, there just aren’t enough trash cans made available. Bucerias beach does have a lot more traffic; however the beaches don’t get as overcrowded. There are also more trash cans and recycle bins available, thanks to the Amigos de Bucerias, so the beaches also remain much cleaner. With more restaurants lining the playa, this helps for bathroom usage as well. Porta potties would be a good idea as well. I know Sayulita has used them before and it made a huge difference. Then the year after they didn’t! I am not sure why! Many of the snow birds leave before Semana Santa for a few different reasons. They don’t like the crowds, litter and pollution, and they like to go home for Easter to see grand babies and family. So, many have already left for home, which can make the Riviera Nayarit the perfect place to visit when Semana Santa is over and the cleanup has been done. Springtime is one of the best times to visit due to lower pricing for accommodations, usually lower air fares, less crowded beaches, and the weather is perfect! For me? I like to go and visit several of the beaches and watch the families play and enjoy life.

They really LOVE the sand! Getting buried, sitting at the ocean’s edge and letting the sandy water come in over them. Throwing sand at each other and lots of sand castles. As I watch the party I can only imagine the sand is in every physical nook and cranny! Semana Santa on the Riviera Nayarit…It’s one big party, and that is for sure! Cat’s Favorites…some of my favorite places around the North Bay. Easter Dinner at Mark’s Bar and Grill …one of my very favorite places to dine. I love the large selections to choose from. Every meal for me at Mark’s has been outstanding. Glorias Place in La Cruz has a

huge end of the season sale going on right now! I love her clothing! Gloria's Place "end of season sale" started this week. Sizes from small to 3X. I really do love the clothing …it’s perfect for summer as well; Breathable Cotton. Refreshments too! Bring friends & party! Amanditas Bay Curry in Bucerias…Amanda makes the BEST curry! She makes her delicious curries for sale. In fact..she has a hard time keeping up! Stop by after 3 to smell the curries cooking in the kitchen and pick up a jar. It will make your mouth water, I guarantee it! Thanks for tuning in this week. As always, there is never enough room on the page to write about it

all, so please check out our RivieraNayaritFun FB page for all the latest on the Riviera Nayarit and North Bay area, and check out the allBucerias.com and allLaCruz. com calendars. There is going to be a lot of changes as some restaurants close, and others bring on their new menus as we move into the summer season. Enjoy the crazy Semana Santa or hide out… but whatever you do HAVE FUN!

If you have any questions, looking for a long term year around rental, or summer rental, or long term rental for next season you may email me directly at Cat@ RivieraNayaritFun.com. Many blessings for the journey.

riviera nayarit

March 24 - 30, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Bucerias Art District Beat By Gordon Mayer

Jorge Borbolla – Casabor Galeria Mexicana

here is something within all of us that seeks contentment and satisfaction. As natural as drawing a deep breath to sigh over a sunset across the ocean is the peace felt when we find a place of solace. After years of success as a custom furniture designer in San Pedro Tlaquepaque, traveling extensively to participate in shows all over Mexico, Jorge Borbolla, found himself in Bucerias and, as many of us have, fell in love with the peaceful community and the warm acceptance of the people there. Opening along Lazaro Carenas, the Casabor Galeria has stood as a fixture for nine years and is a testament to the contentment Jorge feels as part of this community. Continuing his success designing custom furniture and branching out to represent many local artists and some from as far abroad as Canada, Jorge has carved a unique place in the community by his affection for the art he creates and represents. Jorge says he, “likes to experience the feeling of the artist in their work” which creates a “sharing

of emotion and relationship with the art and artist.” He becomes quite attached to the art he finds as he approaches representing his artists with an open heart. This is what Jorge wants the Bucerias Art District (BAD) to accomplish as an entity; to “let people know what they are coming to” and what they are coming to is a remarkable community, in his estimation. While most business owners would speak of competition and market share, Jorge, like many in the BAD denies that competition exists. Stating the community of artists

and galleries, as he will tell you, each bring something different and special to the district. “Sometimes I will tell my patron that what they seek is found at another gallery,” quips Jorge, anxious that the customer make as personal a connection to the art as he experiences. “They are all my favourite,” Jorge responds when asked if there was a favourite piece or a particular memory from his history. “I am happy to see them going to homes,” he adds with an air of satisfaction that exudes from his tone. Whatever competition may in fact exist is trumped by the heartfelt desire to share art in all its forms. When asked about the future of the BAD, Jorge shifts quickly to excitement about telling people from all over what the BAD has to offer. His gallery has seen many visitors from all points of the globe and to each one he has extended the same greeting he experienced when he first came to Bucerias; peace and acceptance. As he draws out custom furniture to complete a client’s space in their home or helps them select a world-class piece of art to do the same, the moment never gets old for Jorge as he sees people connect with the colours and shapes, textures and patterns that are contained in the art. Every time the same result is achieved, he draws a full breath and sighs a contented sigh that another piece of beloved art has made a deep connection and found a home.

riviera nayarit

March 24 - 30, 2016 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 The room was full of Canadians except for Philo, one staff member, Gris, … and Michael. When I asked why he was there he said, “My team lost [USA] so I thought I might as eminiscing about how I well come and serve my Canamet different folks in La dian friends”. Did I mention this was Cruz always brings a 6:00am? That speaks to Mike’s smile! My first memory of Michael kindness! Crane humbled me; it was six in Many people met Michael on the morning at Philo’s bar where his nightly walk-a-bouts and as Canada was playing Sweden in the he became friends with them he Olympic hockey game. Philo was shared his baking, with everyone kind enough to open for those of who tasted saying, “I want more!” us who had to embrace our roots! Friends suggested that this was

La Cruz’s Personal Baker!

a much needed talent in La Cruz and one thing led to another including many restaurants carrying his delectable homemade goodies. Next thing Michael was developing new recipes for restaurants with specific tastes. Since those initial days Michael

fell in love with the beautiful Yolanda and they created a partnership in both their private and professional lives taking the baking to a whole new level. MY Cakes LaCruz offers the following; try reading this and not crave something yummy! • Carrot cake • Very Chocolate, Chocolate cake (with over 1 ½ lbs of real chocolate) • New York Cheesecake (with a variety of toppings) • Limoncello cake (with limoncello curd filling and candied lemon) • Tres Leches with Tres Alcohol (Kaluha, Amaretto and Bailey's Irish Cream); their twist on a traditional Mexican cake • Chocolate Dream cake; currently only available at Gecko Rojo • Banana cake (with banana curd filling and made with REAL bananas, not flavoring; currently available only at Octopus's Garden • They also make hamburger rolls for Ballena Blanca, Octopus's Garden, Cafe Shule’l and Rincon del Buzo. Each is made to the taste of the restaurant e.g. Ballena Blanca has only rolls with onion while Octopus's Garden prefers a rich, buttery sweet roll. • Tequila de Dragon – we discovered while experimenting with a new recipe that chile and tequila make a good combination and my

friend and chef Edwin Robles of Ballena Blanca asked if he could sell it at his restaurant. We offer the reposado at Ballena Blanca and a tequila blanca at Octopus's Garden where Alfredo prefers the chile with the white tequila. • Whole Grain Mustard – we make it for the dressing used by Ballena Blanca for their coleslaw and tacos. Enough teasing; where can you purchase these yummies? • Ballena Blanca • Octopus's Garden • Gecko Rojo • La Cava • Cafe Don Simon (next to Red Chairs) • Cafe Shule’l and their new venture Iguanacaxtle The best seller is the carrot cake by far. Their storefront bakery, My Cakes La Cruz, will open in September or October. They’ll never compromise quality and their products might cost a little more, but it is well worth it! Place your order (only whole cakes for now) at 322.193.6524 or visit their Facebook page to order; https://www.facebook.com/ MYCakesLaCruz/?fref=ts For the longer version and a very interesting story on another expat’s journey to paradise go to http:// www.villaamordelmar.com/blog/

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March 24 - 30, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

‘Chuting along the beach By Thomas Lockhart

’m sure you’ve all watched adrenalin junkies being towed in parachutes behind speed boats. Perhaps trying the experience yourself. I thought our readers might find the inside scoop on this exhilarating activity interesting. My favourite Mexican beach is Playa Olas Altas, abutting the Romantica Zone, particularly near the rock wall and the life guard tower. I fly a SixChuter Powered Parachute in Canada and over the years I’ve become chums with the men who run Claudia’s Parachute from this busy beach location. (Sadly, the original Claudia owner was killed in the Mexico City earthquake of 1985). Pepe the most senior of the group, with over 35 years of experience, lives out near Ranchito (on the road to Guadalajara) and has to commute into Puerto Vallarta each morning. He meets up with Angel (a.k.a. El Diablo, the boatswain with 30+ yrs. behind the wheel) at the Marina Los Pienes where the motor launch is moored overnight, and they proceed to fuel and maintain it. The speed boat has a huge 315 hp inboard engine that is water cooled, but uses salt water for the propulsion jets. A heavy duty stainless steel cross beam is welded to an upright post with a ring on top, this is where the tow rope is attached. From the moorage they navigate through the channel, past the Naval Reserve (and numerous Pelicans

and Iguanas) whilst keeping in radio contact with the Habour Master. After disembarking at Pier Los Muertos, Pepe “the Legend” meets up with the other half of the four man team, Badua and Chuy. Badua is also a rigger with some 30+ years in the game, gets the harness ready and the chutes unfolded. They have two chutes, depending on the strength of the wind, weight of the passenger, current, tide and wave height. Both are custom made in Acapulco specifically for beach parachuting..... even so, they must be replaced every couple of years due to the damaged caused by the UVA rays. Chuy’s task, amongst others, is to get the polypropylene line from the motor launch and hook that up to the risers for the parachute. After the excited client is strapped into the harness, and instructed on how to steer the chute prior to landing (communication is via a very loud whistle), he/she is attached to the risers and the boat is throttled forward.... two steps and it’s off and away for a jaunt around Banderas Bay and a stunning view of Puerto Vallarta. El Diablo is an expert at dragging the parachute parallel to, and over the beach while the paracadista pulls down the lines on one side..... forcing the chute to sideslip along the playa, lining up for a gentle touchdown into three pairs of waiting arms. Give it a try, cheap at twice the price..... considering how many men and how much equipment and work is involved.

Tuesday to Saturday 4-11pm Happy Hour 9 - 11 pm

Get A Free Margarita Pizza with Purchase of a Bottle of Red and White Wine

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March 24 - 30, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Melaque Monsoon by Virginia Fox v@vcfox.net

Rain? Again?

isten to this,” I said to my husband, Cal, sitting on our Old Town terrace reading emails and embracing warm breezes while friends in Chicago were confronting icy winds.

“Come on down to La Manzanilla for St. Patrick’s Day events,” wrote Mollie, a friend with Irish roots. Mollie and her husband and other friends had relocated to “La Manz” from Puerto Vallarta and raved about life in a small Mexican town. “We’re going to have some people over and love to have you come too. There’s a fabulous event at a restaurant in La Manzanilla, with Irish music and food. And you can go to the St. Patrick’s parade in Melaque, twenty minutes South of La Manz.” The Melaque parade is a magnet for visitors. I envisioned green floats, leprechauns running around, children step dancing and everyone claiming to be Irish. It was only four hours south of Puerto Vallarta and anything with Irish in it “Irish Cal” wants to do. We agreed to go and began the online search for a hotel. The Monterrey Hotel, in the center of Melaque, promised an “ocean front and moderate prices.” We’re seniors. “Moderate prices” is almost as good as “free.” We booked it. Now the logistics. “Do we take our aging car or rent one?” The old car we called “Clunker” was great to take on small trips, but every time we turned on the engine and backed out of our parking space, he screamed an earth shattering squealing noise that was getting louder every day. Do we take the risk that Clunker might break down, or spend the money on a rental? Ask three friends for advice and you’ll get at least three differing opinions. “You don’t want to spend two days in a tiny town off the highway

with a mechanic who doesn’t speak English,” Nancita advised. “Take the old car,” said Elena. “If it breaks down, you’ll meet interesting people.” To illustrate her point, this adventuresome friend who finds “interesting people” on every corner told a story of being stranded on the highway, meeting a Mexican family and eating rice and beans in their humble kitchen. Elena has her own unique definition of “interesting.” “The highway is a long stretch without a lot of people on it,” said Magdalena. If I were doing this trip, I’d take the safest car I could find.” Magdelena has lived in a Mexican colonia for years. Any advice she gives, I take seriously, though I don’t always follow it. We decided to rent a car and to leave our old car with a mechanic. It was time to find out what was causing the squealing sounds, dripping water under the dashboard and other ailments. Here’s a great deal from National Rentals,” said Cal beaming. “It’s only $20 a day. $100 total for the four days, if you go to the airport location.” Cal was beaming. Going out to that location was a small price to pay for all we would save. We liked Miguel immediately, the agent at National Car Rentals. Like we’d known them forever, we laughed with him and his English speaking cohorts, all young and, I might add, very good looking guys. “I see from your online contract you didn’t check the collision insurance,” said MIguel with a glint in his eye. “If I use my American Express card I already have the insurance,” said Cal confidently. “Yes, but here’s a deal I’m going to offer you today,” Miguel says. He gets out his paper and begins writing down figures for complete coverage. “I highly recommend this,” he says. “And it you buy it from me, only me, now, it will only cost you $15 more.” I honestly don’t know what happened next. He wasn’t just blessed with good looks, he was a very smooth

talker. What I do know is we left with a contract that was now $ 200.00. “You probably are in time share sales on the side,” I said looking for humor while walking quickly out the door. Cruising onto Highway 200 in our non-squealing, smooth-riding car was worth the price. We felt secure and ready for anything. One hour on the road and the rain began. Our comfy car had new windshield wipers and we knew the storm wouldn’t last long. It was March. It doesn’t rain in March. That deluge we had a few weeks ago was an aberration. It wouldn’t happen again. Four hours later, we pulled into

La Manzanilla, dirt roads now full of potholes and puddles. We parked the car in front, dodging snowball sized raindrops. Of course we hadn’t brought an umbrella. We knew the rain wouldn’t last long. Half an hour later we had moved our table twice, the restaurant was flooding, and the only safe place to sit was on a bar stool with locals seeing who could get drunk first. “This town will look better tomorrow in the sun,” we decided. Arriving in Melaque at the Hotel Monterrey we began to practice Acceptance and Flexibility. The rains were increasing and cool temperatures continuing to drop. We had not expected a Four Seasons hotel, but Hotel Monte-

rrey was giving new meaning to “bare bones.” We decided to check out a day early. Our room was clean, neat and it had the essentials. Beds with hard mattresses and hard pillows. Two tiny bars of soap you can drop and never find. Two bath towels that would dry a child sized person. The TV was precariously perched on a metal arm hanging from the wall, looking like it could fall at any moment. Two beach towels lay on the bed. They were now our “umbrellas.” There was an ocean beyond the long terrace with huge swells and waves banging the eroding beach and heavy raindrops pounding the foliage.

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23 I’m a firm believer in packing “more not less,” and had thrown in a velour hoodie jacket. Cal who hates long pants or long sleeves was rethinking the idea of “less is more.” “Let’s check out this town and maybe we’ll find an umbrella and sweatshirt, a cute bar and shops with low prices,” I said, ever the optimist. We ventured out, beach towels on our heads, wearing our funkiest clothes and ugliest waterproof sandals. A couple of blocks and it was clear, this was not Sayulita, but the “almost free” prices on junk jewelry was a dream come true. Sort of. It kept raining. That would be pouring. Hunger overcoming weather obstacles, that night we ventured next door to Papa Joe’s restaurant to find any edible food and other rain soaked travelers. I’m not a fan of TV “Survivor,” and now I was living in an episode. Dinner was a chess game and we were the pawns. It was musical tables as waiters and customers moved throughout the meal searching for any dry spot under the roof. Hurricane candles were lit and blew out. But it was Mexico, and everyone was laughing! We comforted ourselves knowing it would stop soon. It was March and it doesn’t rain. That night we secured our hotel window shutters, blocking all the natural light, with the sounds of the raging ocean below. Forcing ourselves out in the rain the next day, we found an umbrella and poncho for Cal, and a terrific breakfast place called Roosters, much like Rollies in Sayulita. Whacky signs, funky décor, brightly colored walls and a young wait staff with lots of humor. I decided to try out my Spanish. That would be Spanglish. “How’d I do?” I said to Chuy. ‘Awful,” he beamed. “The worst I’ve heard all day.” An hour later we’d enjoyed a hearty breakfast, much banter, met friendly locals and we were warm. And dry. It was still raining. That would be pouring. That day we spent shuttered in our sparse room playing gin rummy and reading. It was a day to rest and get ready for two days of hearty Irish partying. I checked Mollie’s directions to her house again. “Come into town and head toward the beach, turn left at the dry creek bed, go up an incline.” The “dry creek bed” was hard to imagine and we longed for written signs, but if it’s an Irish party, we’ll find it.

I emailed Mollie from the one WiFi hot spot in the lobby. “If we don’t get to your house, maybe we should meet you at the restaurant,” I wrote. “What is the name?” No answer. Cal and I dressed in green underneath my hoodie and his poncho we had not taken off. The old drenched sandals would have to do. The rain had not let up. Ten minutes before we were to leave, I checked my email one more time. “Sorry to say because of the rains, the event is cancelled,” Mollie wrote. “Our gathering at our house was last night and we are swamped in. Can’t go anywhere. Hope to see you at the Parade if they don’t cancel and we can get out.” Ohhhhh. That night we went into Barra de Navidad. Our luck finally changed. We eased into “Sea Master,” a charming restaurant with a tasty grilled pescado entrée. And a miracle. The rains stopped for two hours. Bright spots were sneaking out from behind the dark clouds. But the rain wasn’t done wreaking havoc. After a night of sleep deprivation from non-stop firecrackers, we went to the front desk to find out the parade was cancelled. It was time to head back and confront highway construction and landslides. The return was filled with delays as crews cleaned up rocks, debris, fallen roads and raging waters down hillsides. “Don’t wait till you need gas,” my friend had said. “If you see a Pemex, tank up.” We did. Pulling into a station behind large trucks and a growing number of policia. Camouflage uniforms, large barreled guns held in positions ready to fire filled the lot. “This is the safest place to be,” I said, ever the optimist. “Maybe yes and maybe not,” said Cal. “Something is definitely going on, “ I said fearing an unwanted event. “I’m not using the baño and let’s get out of here now!” As we pulled back onto the highway I glimpsed a sign on a nearby building, “Estacion de policia federales.” “Oh, it’s a police station!” we laughed. We laughed all the way home about the “Irish debacle.” Our Puerto Vallarta nest would be waiting, and it would not be raining. It was March. The rains don’t come until Summer.

(Note: Rain again this year! Another new “Mexican normal?)

March 24 - 30, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Lucille Ball – The Queen of Comedy By Fred Jacobs

ucy was born in Jamestown, New York in 1911. Her father was a lineman for Bell Telephone in the early days of the telephone revolution. Her father contracted typhoid fever and passed away when Lucy was only three years old. Lucy was raised by various family members and eventually her new stepfather’s parents, who were strict Puritans. But all was not grim for Lucy growing up. Her stepfather was a Shriner and they were looking for female entertainers for their chorus line. He got her an audition and at age twelve, Lucy found herself on the stage and loving it. She craved praise and recognition and the stage quickly became her home. Lucy was a rebel from a young age. At fourteen years old, Lucy stated dating a twenty-three year old local hood named Johnny DeVita, which did not make her mother happy. After a year of this relationship, Lucy’s mother took matters in her own hand to try and separate them by using Lucy’s desire to be in show business. Lucy was sent to New York City to study drama. One of her classmates was a young Bette Davis. Lucy later said that all she learned in drama school was how to be frightened. Lucy supported her acting by doing modeling work and was a Chesterfield cigarette girl. She eventually got some Broadway chorus work but was often hired and quickly fired-even by the famous Ziegfeld. She just didn’t fit into Broadway, no matter how hard she tried. So in 1934, she moved to Hollywood to try her luck there. She did manage to get a contract with RKO Pictures, but it led to only bit parts in movies with the three Stooges, the Marx Brothers and Fred Astaire/Ginger Rogers films. Ginger and Lucy were actually distant cousins and the two had a small roll in a Katherine Hepburn film “Stage Door” (1937). Lucy then signed with MGM for much of the 1940’s, but her rising star gained no traction there either. She became known as the queen of the B movies. To help her career, she picked up a fair bit of radio work as well. In 1940, Lucy met Desi Arnaz, a Cuban singer/band leader and it was a fast and intense love. The two eloped a few months later. The intenseness of their relationship had many ups and downs. Desi’s famous wandering eye did not help

and Lucy actually filed for divorce in 1944. But they reconciled and she withdrew the petition. In 1948, Lucy was cast as a wacky wife, in a new radio show “My Favorite Husband” for CBS Radio. The program was successful, and CBS asked her to develop it for television. Lucy agreed, but insisted on working with her real-life husband, Desi Arnaz. The CBS executives were reluctant, thinking the public would not accept an all-American redhead and a Cuban as a couple. Lucy had a keen business sense and thought ahead in forming Desilu Productions with Desi, to produce the pilot. But CBS execs were not thrilled with the pilot for the TV show. So Lucy and Desi took the characters on the road and toured as a vaudeville act with Lucy as the zany housewife wanting to get in Desi's show. The tour was a great success and the CBS execs put “I Love Lucy” in their lineup. Lucy fought hard for the show partly to help her career, but also help save her troubled marriage to Desi. Lucy being the astute businesswoman, even negotiated with CBS for her and Desi to take a pay cut early on for the rights to the film once the shows aired live. CBS agreed, not realizing what a valuable asset they were almost giving away. In the six years and 180 episodes that I Love Lucy was on, it was the most watched show in the United States in four of its six seasons, and was the first show to end its run at number one in the ratings. CBS negotiated to buy back the rights to “I Love Lucy” in 1957, for $1 million dollars. Lucy

and Desi used this money to buy the old RKO studio property and created Desilu Studios. Making a TV show in the 1950’s was not easy with the networks censors. The married couple had to be shown in separate beds and you could not say the word “pregnant”. This became a tricky subject when Lucy was “expecting” her second child. But they tip-toed around the censors and wrote Lucy’s pregnancy into the series. Lucy was a pioneer of the modern sitcom. She was also the first woman in television to be head of a production company. After their divorce in 1960, Lucy bought out Arnaz's share of the studio, and she was a very active studio head. Desilu and I Love Lucy, pioneered a number of production methods still in use today, such as filming before a live studio audience, a multi-camera setup, and distinct sets adjacent to each other on the stage. Lucy won many awards for “I Love Lucy”, “The Lucy Show” and “Here’s Lucy”, but what was important to her was her family and entertaining people. Lucy passed away in 1989 at the age of 77, but her legacy and smiles she left us with is unmeasurable. I Love Lucy is often regarded as one of the greatest and most influential sitcoms in history. It still runs in syndication around the world to this day, in more than 70 languages… making us all laugh at timeless, honest comedy. We Love YOU Lucy!

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

spca of puerto vallarta

24 SPCA of Puerto Vallarta

March 24 - 30, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

By Janice Gonzalez

t’s that time of year again when we are overrun with both tourists and nationals here in town for the Easter holiday and Spring Break. We are also reminded that it won’t be long before we face restrictions transporting our rescues to foster homes in the US and Canada. Please spread the word and contact us if you can assist as a travel companion. The process is seamless. The SPCA will take care of all the details and cost of transporting the animals. Someone will meet you with the animal at the airport here in town and again after you clear Customs to retrieve the animal at your destination airport. Email us at spcapv@gmail.com. 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

ADORABLE DOGS IN THE SPOTLIGHT…Charlie and Pinto Charlie and Pinto had a very nice home and were loved and cared for. Their mom Ginger adopted Charlie, a black Labrador mix, from us about four years ago and he soon bonded with her other dog Pinto, a little white Poodle mix. Sadly Ginger recently fell ill and has died leaving these two boys all alone in the world. Both are around five years old. Pinto is the typically happy little Poodle who just loves to play and snuggle. Charlie is a handsome, sweet, easy going guy who doesn’t require a lot of exercise. Although he doesn’t have full use of one back leg due to an earlier injury, he gets around just fine and enjoys long walks with his pal Pinto. We are desperately looking for a forever home which will allow us to keep this bonded pair together. They are so attached to each other--they play together or snuggle all day. We are hoping someone out there will find it in their hearts to rescue these two lovely dogs and give them a home together again. Contact us at spcapv@ gmail.com for an application. of the SPCA animals either come from extremely abusive situations

or they have been abandoned. Your love and attention can make up for

that sad history. During your visit, you can interact with the animals and even take a dog (or two or three) for a walk. Tours will be each Tuesday and Thursday leaving from the Costco parking lot at noon. Please note that reservations are required and space is limited. To make a reservation, contact us at spcapv@ gmail.com. We appreciate any donations you can bring for our rescues and also please feel free to bring treats for sanctuary staff as they truly appreciate it. To see our animals available for adoption, visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/spcapv. Go to Photos where you will also find

individual Albums for all the animals available as well as a bit of their history. To make donations via PayPal, select the “Donate” option on our Facebook page www.facebook. com/spcapv or on our website at http://spcapv.com/donate/. You can drop off any donations for the SPCA at Hacienda San Angel located at Calle Miramar 336, above Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in El Centro. Get involved…rescue, adopt, foster, volunteer, donate or educate. Contact us at spcapv@gmail.com. You can learn more about the SPCA Puerto Vallarta by checking us out at www.spcapv.com/home

riviera nayarit

March 24 - 30, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Amazing April Events In Riviera Nayarit

Three US and Canadian Coast Guard Ships Visit Vallarta This Week By Jerry Lafferty

he United States Coast Guard Cutter Alert (WMEC630) will depart Tuesday of this week, prior to publication. A medium endurance cutter it is the last 210-foot (64 m) medium endurance cutter constructed. The keel was laid on 5 January 1968 at the United States Coast Guard Yard at Curtis Bay, Maryland, and she was commissioned on Coast Guard Day, 4 August 1969. Alert derives her name from the early 19th century revenue cutter USRC Alert, which served in the early days of the Revenue Cutter Service. The Navy League of Puerto Vallarta will also be hosting two other warships this week. The Canadian Frigate Vancouver will arrive on Tuesday March 22nd for a brief visit, likely leaving on Thursday. HMCS Vancouver is a Halifax-class frigate, of the Royal Canadian Navy launched on 8 July 1989, as the second vessel of her class. She is currently based at CFB Esquimalt on the west coast of Canada. She is the third vessel to be named for Vancouver, British Columbia. HMCS Vancouver has some high-tech new additions after a major refit last year, with new command and control systems - eye-catching computer screens replace grease pencils and whiteboards - combat management systems, radar capability, and communications and missile-system upgrades. The Coast Guard Cutter Steadfast arrives on Wednesday and departs on Friday or Saturday. USCGC Steadfast (WMEC-623) is a United States Coast Guard medium endurance cutter and has served the United States for over 40 years. Since commissioning in 1968, Steadfast has completed over 330 Search and Rescue cases, interdicted over 1.6 million pounds of marijuana and 27,700 pounds of cocaine, seized over 65 vessels, and stopped over 3500 undocumented migrants on the high seas from entering the United States. Steadfast was the first, and is one of only two cutters awarded the gold marijuana leaf, symbolizing one million pounds of marijuana seized. For more information about scheduled open activities and ship tours, please email Jerry Lafferty of the Navy League at laffja150@gmail.com. Original: pvangels.com

he Oyster Festival, the Capoeira Festival and Batizado, the Guayafest, the Laser World Championship, the Salsa and Mambo Festival, the Open Water Swimming Tournament and the Children’s Fishing Tournament await you. While many of the snowbirds head back after Easter, there is still plenty going on for those of use in town and around the Bay.

they present workshops, batizado ceremonies and everything relative to this culture.

Oyster Festival (April 3) One of Bucerías’ most iconic events is the yearly Oyster Festival, which celebrates local divers with a popular feast that showcases the sense of community shared by the locals. They elect a festival queen, search for the largest oyster and offer visitors a delicious selection of dishes.

The 2016 Laser World Championship (April 12-20 / April 22-30)

5th Capoeira and Batizado Festival (April 8-10) San Pancho welcomes some of the top exponents of this martial art as

17th Annual Guayafest (April 9-10) Just a little further north, Rincón de Guayabitos will be host to dozens of classic, modified and tuned-up Volkies, which will take center stage during this unique festival in this lovely seaside village.

The first two of four phases of an international event that brings together the best sailors in the world will take place in April: first the Laser Women’s World Championship followed by the Laser Masters World Championship – Radial, both in Nuevo Vallarta. Salsa and Mambo Festival (April 21-24) This fabulous event returns to

Nuevo Vallarta as it does every year, bringing with it the best salsa players on the continent to share their rhythm and talent, not to mention have some super fun times in the Bay of Banderas. Open Water Swimming Tournament (April 23) One of the most intense competitions in the bay takes place in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle. It’s quite the show to see the swimmers break the line and race to be the first to reach the finish. Children’s Fishing Tournament (April 30) Once again we celebrate children with a recreational sports event, where they can learn fishing techniques in a family environment at the Marina Riviera Nayarit in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle.

oly Week still plays an important cultural, and indeed economic, role in Mexico. Which it is seems to be mostly determined by whether one is from an urban or rural area, although there are exceptions. For most urban Mexicans, this is a major vacation period as most workers get at least the days leading up to Easter Sunday off, and many get the entire week. Most travelers either visit family in other parts of Mexico or head to the beach. This is a bellwether week for tourist areas such as Puerto Vallarta and Cancun. Mexico City is particularly quiet as most have head out to other places. However, in most traditional and rural areas, the week is more about observance than getting out of Dodge, and preparations include a number of handcrafts. Palm Sunday, like in many parts of the world, sees the sales of palm fronds. While one can buy a simple frond, most opt for quite elaborate weavings, which vary in size from a few centimeters to a half-meter or more in size. Through the entire week, there are passion plays and processions, but the most common days for this are Maundy Thursday and Good Friday. Some of the areas most famous for these include Iztapalapa (Mexico City), Taxco (Guerrero), San Miguel de Allende (Guanajuato), San Luis Potosí, and Tzintzuntzan (Michoacan). Despite their popularity, costumes and props for plays and processions are rarely commercially made, but rather made by the participants themselves or by local artisans. These include helmets and other gear for Roman soldiers, civilian garb from the era, masks (depending on the observance) and the floats and litters often filled with elaborate floral arrangements. They can also include the making of intricate “carpets” from colored sawdust, flowers and other plant matter, which will be destroyed as a procession passes over. Holy Saturday used to be marked extensively with the burning of Judas Iscariot in effigy. At one time, thousands of Judas figures would be “burned” in the streets, especially in central Mexico, but the practice has waned since the mid 20th century. The reason for this is that the “burning” is really the explosion of a paper mache (cartonería) figure filled with fireworks, and a 1957 explosion at a warehouse in Mexico City led to bans on the making of fireworks in the city and most uses as well. The ban on use has since

easter

March 24 - 30, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Holy Week Creativity in Mexico

Good Friday procession in Xochislahuaca, Guerrero

Palm frond weaving in process in Fortin de las Flores, Veracruz been relaxed, but this has not led to a revival to Judas burnings. They still take place, but are much more controlled affairs, generally done by artisan and other community organizations that obtain special permission for the event. One exception to this is the burning of various Judas figures done by the Linares family, of alebrije fame, whose status allows the exception. It is important to note that a number of indigenous peoples in Mexico have important observances related to Easter Sunday, which are syncretism’s of two world-views. The best-known of these is the Deer Dance of the Yaqui people, which simulates the hunt and death of a deer, so that

the people may live. The protagonist not only has handcrafted hand and ankle rattles, he is signified by a headdress, which includes a real deer’s head. Masks, costumes and/or body paint play vital roles in the observances of the Cora in Nayarit, the Tarahumara in Chihuahua, the Mayo in Sonora and various others. Easter Sunday is almost an afterthought in all of this pageantry. It is a quiet day with the main traditions being attending mass and perhaps a family meal. Not to mention the fact that many of the city folks are trying to return home. Many communities are noted for their Holy Week observances. These include Iztapalapa, Mexico

The Passion of Christ Everyone is invited to watch the live production of The Passion of Christ and The Way Of The Cross at Parque Lazaro Cardenas on Good Friday, March 25th, at 10:00 a.m. The Stations of the Cross will proceed along El Malecon to Parque Hidalgo where Jesus is crucified. City; Taxco, Guerrero; San Luis Potosi (city), San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato, Creel, Chihuahua and San Juan Chamula, Chiapas. Holy

Week in 2016 falls between 20 and 27 March. Original: Creative Hands of Mexico

charity

March 24 - 30, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Thanks for the Memories By John Warren

Reuters/Henry Romero

e snowbirds have to face an unpleasant truth. Soon we’ll be heading north to see family, friends and, in some places, (Gasp!) frost. As I tap away on my keyboard I look out of my window and see the blue Pacific, some pink bougainvillea and a host of other flowers that cover the whole spectrum. Just for fun, I check the temperature here in PV; it’s a perfect 26C and expected to dip to a sleepable 18C tonight. Other temperatures up north, where the colour of the grass is still brown, shows Edmonton to be 9C, Chicago 5C and Denver a frigid 2C, slipping down to -8C. That’s 17F. If these conditions hold until you read this, the Easter Bunny will be wearing snowshoes. For many of us who have spent the last few months here the “winter” has been delightful. For members of the International Friendship Club (IFC) it has been a time to make new friends, to socialise, to volunteer and to feel good by doing good. IFC is lucky to have a small army of volunteers who do good things for the less fortunate residents of PV. As always, the majority of IFC’s income came from the IFC Home Tours where about thirty volunteers worked to find the homes to show, sell the tickets, take the money, act as docents and co-ordinate the whole operation. The results speak for themselves; nearly 2,500 people paid $500 pesos each to take the tour and many gave glowing reports on Trip Advisor. More than forty very generous and compassionate homeowners allowed us to show their homes to our customers because they support IFC’s charitable work and, as a result, we raised a large amount of money that we are proud to use to help others. In addition, our membership coordinator sold close to 650 memberships – a world record! Socialising and making new friends is an excellent reason to be part of IFC. The first general meeting/ brunch was held on 10th November at Casa Fantasia and was a great way to re-establish friendships after a six-month lapse, to make new ones and to enjoy the excellent food and hospitality there. The Activities Committee also arranged a Christmas party for members and friends and we all enjoyed the food, fun and music.

Sanders Wins Big In Democrats Abroad Primary By The Associated Press he Democratic candidate won a large majority among Democrats living outside of the United States. Bernie Sanders has scored a big win in the Democrats Abroad global primary. The party says 34,570 U.S. citizens living abroad in 38 countries cast votes by Internet, mail and in person from March 1-8. Sanders received 69 percent of the vote to earn nine of the 13 delegates at stake. Hillary Clinton won 31 percent, picking up four delegates. It’s an important victory for Sanders, who was swept by Clinton in five states last Tuesday. Still, Sanders continues to trail Clinton by more than 300 dele-

“Graduating from IFC English classes” A series of Friday morning lectures dealing with various aspects of Mexican history drew crowds that would have made the fire marshal shudder and the lectures, held on Thursday evenings, on topics ranging from the role of Canadian women in WWll to Eastern Perspectives on Death and Dying were also well attended. Bridge was taught on Monday mornings and played on Friday afternoons. After bridge, the Friday happy hour around the club’s bar was always a popular venue to meet new friends and was followed by the new and successful dine-around program. The club was opened on Monday evenings for the IFC Movie Nights which, this year, featured leading ladies of the past: think Ava Gardner, Grace Kelly and Elizabeth Taylor. On Saturday mornings you could have exercised your mind and body by showing up at 9:00am and participating in Mindful Meditation, followed an hour later by Dharma Yoga. Got to admit that IFC covered many and varied personal interests. The Home Tours, the lectures, the movies and other events all brought income into the club and this year, as in the past, it was

used to support our cleft palate program, which provides free medical services and surgeries to local kids with cleft palates and/ or lips, the free dental program available to people living in Boca De Tomatlan, the provision of free food and supplies to poorer families that are serviced by our nutrition program and we also sent cheques to seventeen registered charities in PV. The English Outreach program was a huge success. Twenty-one volunteers taught English to Mexicans ranging in age from nine to forty-five, twice a week for ten weeks and many graduates asked if they could return to the program next year. It was a busy and excellent year for the club and those we support. Good seasons end with good endings and IFC’s will too. On Sunday 3rd April we will hold our closing brunch at Oscar’s restaurant. It will start at 10:30am and offer a mouth-watering array of food from the buffet, excellent raffle prizes and live piano music. Tickets ($300 pesos) are available online at www.ifcvallarta.com (Special Events) or from the clubhouse at the corner of Insurgentes and Libertad…above HSBC bank. Everyone is welcome.

gates. Clinton now has 1,163 delegates to Sanders’ 844, based on primaries and caucuses. When including superdelegates, or party leaders who can support any candidate, her lead is even bigger — 1,630 to Sanders’ 870. It takes 2,383 delegates to win the nomination. Halfway into the primary season, the Democratic race now moves to Western states this week that Sanders is counting on winning to cut into Clinton’s lead. On Tuesday, Democrats vote in Arizona, Idaho and Utah, with 131 delegates up for grabs; on Saturday, Alaska, Hawaii and Washington hold caucuses with 142 delegates at stake.

Vallarta Garden Club Update Dear Supporter of Beautification – Vallarta, We are writing today to let you know of the exciting plans P.V. Garden Club has for the immediate future. Because of your generosity and because of the success of our various fundraising events as well as the hard work of our board and volunteers, very soon you will be able to see dramatic changes in Puerto Vallarta; from the north end of Avenida Mexico to the south end of Olas Altas. We have a refreshingly cooperative relationship with P.V. Tourism personnel and city officials that gives us hope for a partnership so necessary for our beautification initiatives. Our planters now number in the hundreds. We have a plan for landscaping Avenida Morelos, the street many of us have watched with trepidation as mature primavera trees were ruthlessly removed. We will be placing new palms and bougainvillea and augmenting ground cover throughout the city. The planters need yearly repainting. Because we have a healthy bank balance, for the first time we don’t need to depend on volunteers to do this onerous job; we will hire local workers to do it. Look for this in the next few weeks. The board is determined to tackle the landscaping of the Pier Street (Avenida Francisco Rodriguez) The merchants and the city have all dabbled in the landscaping plan and we acknowledge it needs work. We intend to pursue this with diligence. The “Fiesta Blanca” at Oscar’s was a memorable event and we thank all who supported the auction and the event itself. Along with our follow up fundraiser on Feb 26th at Villa Bahia, both of which were SOLD OUT. We are creating a buzz in Vallarta that beautification, and the tourism it generates, is the way to support all other worthy charities in town.

healthcare

Decisions, decisions…..who gets to decide? by Orlando Gotay, Tax Attorney

aking health care decisions for yourself in Mexico is a snap--as long as you are capable of making them. What if you aren’t? Understandably, this can be a very touchy subject. People don’t like to think about unpleasant situations of illness or injury. But these things may happen. And I suppose the worst scenario is that, during an incapacity, either temporary or permanent, health care decisions are made for you that perhaps run against what perhaps you would had wished for yourself. Mexico (at federal level) and a few (but not all) states have in recent years provided for laws authorizing what you and I would label a “durable power of attorney. The “durable” part is important. In Mexico, “regular” powers of attorney become useless once the person granting the power is incapacitated. Durable powers of attorney enable the person holding the power to do the acts authorized by the document during the incapacity, and we are concerned here with medical decisions including some care decisions in terminal situations, irreversible, or with little chance of recovery. The old adage “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” comes in handy. Planning ahead would be immensely wise.

Here’s some food for thought. Who will you designate to be the person that makes these deci-

sions? Is it a person you trust, that understands your values? Are they local to you? It does not make much sense if your designee is in Michigan, has no passport, and would have to ask directions to get to where you live. What kinds of things would you wish be done for you if you were not around to decide? There are many Durable Power of Attorney forms for Health Care available online that can help as a starting point, for your own list. They may also provide items you have not thought about, such as permission to move you back to the States, access to medical files, and many others, such as dealing with medical insurance companies on both sides of the border or even an emergency evacuation. Consider having a document drafted in both English and Spanish, to facilitate it being useful to medical personnel and to your designee. Having one such document, clearly expressing your preferences, may make the difference in many meaningful ways. It may just be honored. One thing is for sure, not having it virtually guarantees your wishes may not be known.

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.

March 24 - 30, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Breast scaring, a challenge in cosmetic surgery

ne of the most common cosmetic procedures in Mexico is breast augmentation surgery. Everyone has their own reasons for choosing this procedure including increased self-esteem and corrective surgery, so much so that breast augmentation tends to be normalized. While most patients experience no side effects and are pleased with the results of their surgery, there are a small percentage of women who do not get the results they expected. Among the aesthetic complications of breast surgery, is the possibility of scaring because of the surgery, while not life threatening it can lead to depression and lack of satisfaction with the results. Some women experience scars that are raised, thick, red, pleated or blotchy, that both highlights the surgery and prevents the patient from being comfortable in showing

their new body. Seeking medical assistance in diminishing or removing the scars is a viable option in Puerto Vallarta with the recent opening of the Wound Healing Clinic in the Vallarta Medical Center. With so many varieties of scar, using a combination of methods is currently the best treatment.

There are about ten methods that can be employed to improve the appearance, the most common being ointments, injections, minor burning on its surface, removing and rebuilding the area and introducing color. Scars can be difficult to treat and rarely will they be completely removed but with the treatments

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

VALLARTA SHOPPING AND EVENTS www.puertovallartadining-shopping.com

available through Dr. Mauricio Alvarez at the Wound Healing patients can receive modern and cutting edge technology with up to date procedures. Dr. Mauricio Alvarez Wound Healing Clinic Vallarta Medical Center

Wheeling Vallarta Segway Tours

Located across from McDonald’s

322-223-8014 31 de Octubre 107 Col. Centro Puerto Vallarta Malecon

“Remodeling and Renovations”

Fine Art and Furniture

Juarez 599 El Centro 322 222 1383, 322 111 6359 www.colibridesignvallarta.com galeriacolibri@gmail.com

events calendar

March 24 - 30, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

If you have an event you would like to publicize, please email editor@vallartatribune.com. Friday, March 25 Church Service - English Congregation at the First Baptist Church will have a Good Friday service at 11 am. Church is located next to Park Hidalgo. Wednesday, March 30 Bingo at Nacho Daddy’s All bingo games at Nacho Daddy’s are every other Wednesday with card sales beginning at 3:00 pm and bingo at 4:00 pm. Bingo bags over 1400 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 & Neuter. April 3 IFC Closing Brunch Oscar’s 10:30 a.m.

Havre No.111 Col. Versalles Fluent English Spoken

$300 pesos per person Raffle to support IFC charities See ifcvallarta.com special events for menu and details April 13 Becas Vallarta Breakfast at Coco’s Kitchen 9:30 a.m., $200 pesos info and tickets: Suzanne Erikson 221-5599 or Terry Prill 221-5465, or

Mariel or Carlos Fregosa 221-0789 April 13-17 Cuisine of the Sun: Gastronomy Event Held at Villa La Estancia in Nuevo Vallarta, celebrities, chefs, sommeliers and connoisseurs of the finest in food and luxury will enjoy this four-day event. More info: cuisineofthesun.villagroupresorts.com

May 16-30 Vallarta Pride – Themed One Family, this two-week event has

events splashed around town. More information at vallartapride.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. Suzanne Erikson 221-5599 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, casahogar_maximocor nejo@ 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 situations. 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

Christ Church by the Sea Worldwide Anglican Communion

Services Sunday 10:00 a.m. Palm Sunday March 20 /Easter Sunday March 27 Maundy Thursday March 24 at 5 p.m. English-Traditional Holy Communion All faiths welcome-Casual Dress Across from airport, northbound service road next to Sixt and Thrifty Car Rental Blvd. Fco. Medina 7936, Puerto Vallarta Questions? Call Father Jack Wehrs 322-209-0895 cell: 044-322-229-1129

www.ChristChurchByTheSea.org www.IglesiaCristoDelMar.org

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31 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. 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. Artwalk – In the historic center of 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. THURSDAY Bucerias Artwalk from 7-9pm Calle Lazaro Cardenas Marina Night Market – 6-9:30pm vendors and artisans set up along the marina FRIDAY Marsol Market by the Pier, Vallarta – 9:30am – 1:30 Sayulita Farmers Market – 9am-2pm SATURDAY Old Town Farmers Market - 9:30am-2pm Parque Lazaro Cardenas, Vallarta Three Hens and a Rooster Market - From 9am to 1pm, on Carranza 466, Old Town, Vallarta Lo de Marcos Tianguis - 9am - 2pm SUNDAY Live Music in the Main Plaza, Vallarta – 6pm La Cruz Farmers Market – 9-2pm

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March 24 - 30, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com