Issue 991, March 31 - April 6, 2016

Catch us online @ vallartatribune.com

Entertainment

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LUNA LOUNGE

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March 31 - April 6, 2016 Year 19 Free Issue 991

Under The Palapa new columnist

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Riviera Nayarit rip currents

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Amate paper from Guerrero photo by Barb Nettleton

now distributed in sayulita!

welcome

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Welcome to Puerto Vallarta

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

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

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

Current fare 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 31 - April 6, 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

Ahoy Cruisers!

Day Ship 6-Apr Carnival Miracle 7-Apr Norwegian Jewel 8-Apr Celebrity Infinity 12-Apr Crown Princess 13-Apr Carnival Miracle 14-Apr Celebrity Infinity 14-Apr Norwegian Jewel 15-Apr Ruby Princess 19-Apr Carnival Miracle 19-Apr Zaandam 20-Apr Carnival Miracle 20-Apr Zaandam

Passengers 2,124 2,376 1,950 3,120 2,124 1,950 2,376 3,080 2,124 1,432 2,124 1,432

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

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 21-Apr Norwegian Jewel 2,376 22-Apr Nieuw Amsterdam 2,106 26-Apr Norwegian Pearl 2,394 27-Apr Carnival Miracle 2,124 28-Apr Norwegian Jewel 2,376

In the month of April Puerto Vallarta welcomes 37, 588 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

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March 31 - April 6, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Editor’s

Note

editor@vallartatribune.com and the newspaper as we adjust for the coming ‘winter season'. We will continue being here week after week – in fact, all 52 of them - in print and online.

I

bravely ventured out with the dogs for a romp on the beach last week and went from Barracudas to Cap't Dons when I turned around and went home. It was crazy busy. Like sardines out there.

Reports are that Puerto Vallarta enjoyed 100% occupancy, and I would have to agree. In speaking with some of our advertisers in the past couple weeks; everyone is saying that this year has been phenomenal and back to pre2008 numbers. I suspect it’s even better.

At the Tribune, we are rolling into the ‘summer season’ and with that we are back to 24 pages, but there is still so much to say that I’ve skipped on some of the general news articles I usually include. I figure you’re on vacation; you can live without the news for a week or two.

In the three years I have been manning the helm of the Vallarta Tribune, this year has been one of ease and comfort. It feels as though we have turned a corner and found our rhythm. Publishing in a digital age is not easy and for this, we have focused on improving our positioning online. Over the summer, you will see some big changes and improvements to both our website (vallartatribune.com)

It pleases me to no end to welcome another fabulous contributor to the ranks of the Vallarta Tribune. Chris Dalton of ‘Under the Palapa’ fame publishes his first column here this week. His irreverent tone examines the finer details of life in Vallarta. If you have not read his earlier stories about buying a condo, they are a must.

Everything he writes is true, and that’s unbelievable!

Over the past couple weeks there have been dozens of swimmers rescued around the bay and unfortunately, a number who were not saved in time. The ocean wields awesome power, and one must always be aware of their surroundings before entering the water. Do not swim if you’ve been drinking heavily. It’s never a good idea. And if you don’t know how to spot a Rip Tide, please read the article on page 14 - 15 to learn what to look for.

Still plenty of events, markets, live shows going on around town.

Inside these pages, you will find all the details.

Thank you for your continued support.

Safe travels, Madeline

Letters to the Editor Muchas Gracias, Now that all the Purr Project fund-raisers are done for the season, we want to take a minute to thank everyone who attended our garage sale, fashion show, mystical cocktail party, trunk shows, ranch tours, spay/neuter clinics, bingo games too numerous to mention—and all those brave souls who risked drowning at our annual luau on the beach!

Your attendance at our events ensures that the 150 gatos and gatitos at the Purr ranch will have food, shelter, medical attention and

needed meds through the long summer months.

We are so grateful to Tari Bowman at Daiquiri Dick’s, Troy Valens at Sea Monkey, Enrique Soriano at Margarita Grill, Andrea Marquez and Hector Lomeli at Sucesos Boutique, and Tracy Parks at The Palm for allowing us to invade your space and hold fund-raisers at your establishments. You and your people are all absolute joys to work with.

A huge ‘muchas gracias’ to all the local vendors and individuals who donated prizes—gift certifi-

Gastrointestinal Surgeon Gastrointestinal Diseaases.

Weigth loss Surgery (Gastric sleeve, Gastric By pass) Accepts National and International Insurance

Abdominal Pain Gastritis Gall Bladder Appendicitis Colitis Hemorrhoids Hernia Certified by the Mexican Council General Surgery

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Facebook.com/Dr.SergiodelHoyo

Emergency: (322)1506291

dr_sergiodelhoyo@me.com

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

cates, artwork, massages, show tickets, art gallery gift cards, kitty bags and aprons, jewelry, bakery goods, yoga classes—far too many to mention. We receive many favorable comments about our prizes, and your generosity is what makes them possible.

And to our incredible volunteers—we simply could not do this without your hard work, dedication, patience, good humor, and all-too-frequent dips into your wallets. You are just The Best.

The Purr Posse is taking some time off to catch our breath, regroup and plan more fund-raising fun for next season. Wherever you are in the world, have a great summer –

we look forward to seeing you in the fall!

Marilyn Khan Purr Project

Hi Madeline, We met at Casitas Maraika's a couple weeks back and you recommended some restaurants that you liked to my sister-in-law and me. We really enjoyed Joe Jack's Fish Shack (went there that same night) and Mark's in Bucerias the following night. Had a really good

meal at Mark's and enjoyed his wife's gift shop across the street.

We did not find too many other galleries open that night (thought Thursday night was an art walk night), but maybe it was because of St. Patrick's Day. I really appreciate you taking the time to tell us about your favorite restaurants and enjoyed your newspaper, too! (We stayed the afternoon at Casitas and had a great lunch and relaxing day on the beach--next time would like to attempt hiking there vs. the panga). Will definitely be back to PV. Thanks again, Linda Kennedy (Farmington Hills, Michigan)

Old Town Farmers Marke Handrolled Quality from Cig

By Erin Staley

F

arm-to-table ingredients, ready-to-eat foods, live music, traditional Mexican handcrafts, tropical flowers, fashion-forward apparel/ accessories, artisan chocolates, handmade body products, unique gifts – we've got it all here for you at the OTFM-TC!

Meet Cigar Don Martin While making your way through the market, be sure to stop by Cigar Don Martin. You'll find Martin Antemate Velasco, a “Maestro Rolador” (Master Maker of Cigars).

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

“As a child, I was mesmerized by the tobacco fields surrounding San Andrés Tuxtla Veracruz,” says Don Martin. He describes this south-eastern location as the nation's hub for fine tobacco since the 1800s.

Don Martin had been drawn to the tobacco scents as a youngster, and he eventually took an interest in rolling his own cigars.

Don Martin honed the craft of rolling cigars by working for the local company. He later moved to Puerto Vallarta, bringing 30 years of experience and a dream to make and sell high-quality Mexican cigars. He thought that the OTFM-TC could help him

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.

realize his goals. He joined during its second season.

A Market Favourite

“I arrived to the market on public transportation, carrying a suitcase, table and chair,” he explains. “It was extremely uncomfortable, and I had only six boxes of cigars to sell. But thanks to

the opportunity provided by the Old Town Farmers Market, my business has grown by 90%. I now have my own car. I bring three tables, a shaded tent, and a bunch of hand rolled cigars each week. It's much more convenient for all of my new and returning customers.”

et - Tianguis Cultural gar Don Martin

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

A Special Fermentation Process Now in his sixth season, Don Martin continues to be a market favourite. He happily rolls for shoppers, explaining his special fermentation process. First, he gathers the tobacco from Mexican growers. He then ferments the leaves in tequila and rum, taking advantage of the tropical humidity.

The leaves are then rolled for maximum purity, flavor and smoking enjoyment. Each comes packaged in an attractive set, perfect for immediate enjoyment or as a souvenir.

Discover why market-goers love the taste and quality of Don Martin's hand-rolled cigars. To learn more, contact +52 (322) 779-0055, martin_ant.puros(at)hotmail.com or Cigar Don Martin’s Facebook page.

Artisan Bakery

Yoga Class Due to a limited response, the yoga class is cancelled for the balance of the season.

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.

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).

…where bread is an art.

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

ChelowVallarta

Swimwear and beachwear made ​​to order!

Teresa Moreno Fb: TYBikinisYMas

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

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

Authentic contemporary jewelry

Heriberto Saucedo Pérez Artista Diseñador Cel. 322.190 56 32 Fb: Heriko Joyeria herikojoyeria@hotmail.com Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

local

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March 31 - April 6, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Taurus and the Twins

by Virginia Fox v@vcfox.net

Y

ou’re the most obsessive compulsive person I know,” I say to my husband Cal, laughing as he packs a small bag with symmetric rows of tightly rolled T-shirts. We’re leaving for a get-a-way North to San Pancho (“San Francisco”) and Sayulita. "Do you really want so few clothes?”

I ask staring at my pile of colorful clothes, far more than I’ll ever wear. My question to Cal echoes comments I make every time we travel. We may be best friends, but simmering underneath are some spicy differences.

As a gregarious Gemini with a proud family history of A.D.D., I find myself often at odds with Cal’s Taurus focus and OCD behavior.

After twenty-seven years of a happy marriage, I’m still grateful every day for this miracle of getting along.

“I’m really enjoying this new meditation group,” he says closing his bag after fifteen minutes of packing.

I like doing things with Cal, but sitting in a lotus position, legs folded under, thumbs and forefingers in a circle with no talking or entertainment, will be one activity I won’t join. After incarcerating myself in San Francisco in the 60’s, participating in encounter groups and transformational boot camps like EST, I now run from heavily structured “think” groups.

“I think I’ll meditate on the beach in San Pancho,” he says. “ I can help you with that,” I say. “I think that would be an oxymoron,” he replies without a pause. Just like that.

I join him in laughing and silently file away his comment waiting for the right opportunity to throw it back.

The phone rings and I can tell from Cal’s comments, it’s our friend, Minnesota Miguel, who recently got married and is not planning to visit Vallarta anymore. “He’s sold the car,” Cal says referring to the old car we’ve borrowed and nursed for two years.

“Really? No more Clunkie?” I say sadly. “Clunkie” was the term of endearment I used when his engine abruptly stopped on the

highway to Destilladero Beach a few weeks ago. “The Clunker” had been a part of our lives for years, providing transportation to Costco, choir rehearsals in the Marina and carless friends. “I’m so relieved,” Cal says. “A car with no title, transmission failures, water dripping under the dashboard, back tires going flat every day and front light falling out made me very nervous. “ “Yes, but he took us shopping,” I say. “Let's have a memorial.”

“Are you kidding?"

Cal responds. "Let’s say ‘thanks’ and not look back.”

“Who bought it?” I ask. “A guy at a car rental agency,” Cal says.

“That will be one agency we won’t use,” we laugh.

The day of our departure we rent a Chrysler minivan and sitting up high on our way to San Pancho, we feel like we’re in a VIP limousine. An hour and a half later, we’re driving down San Pancho’s one main street toward the beach.

We’ve booked “Casa Renta San Francisco” online through AirBnB and Jose S. promises to meet us with the key. We have only one clue to finding the casa: “It’s on the last street before the beach in San Pancho.” After circling a couple times and not seeing anything that remotely resembles the online photos, or anyone hanging out that might look like Jose’s AirBnB photo, we return to the main street.

“I’m going to ask that guy over there,” I say spotting an adult Mexican dressed in business clothes. “He looks like he might know English.” Cal gives me that 'why would you' look from someone who never asks directions, to someone who asks everyone everything, and he keeps driving.

“Just stop,” I shout, jumping out while opening the door. “Habla Ingles?” I say to a well-dressed Mexican hombre standing in front of an office. “Si, Senora,” he says and in a barrage of Spanish dismisses the guy he is talking to.

“Como se llama?” I ask. “Pedro” he answers with a huge grin.

“Casa Renta” I say. “We’re looking for Casa Renta.” “You want

to rent a casa?” he asks. “What is the name?” “Casa Renta,” I say.

“It’s on the street over there that is the last one before the beach.”

“I know every house and every owner on that street and I’ve never heard of Casa Renta. I can help you,” Pedro says. “ I have a hotel.”

“We’re meeting Jose S.” I say.

“Jose S.? Never heard of him.

There are lots of people coming into town now, wanting to rent and giving strangers money. They never see the person again.” Strutting into his office with a macho attitude, he sits down in front of his computer.

After several minutes, Cal joins us.

We’re always in sync, but right now I sense he’s thinking, “what have you gotten us into now?”

“We booked it through Airbnb and we’re meeting Jose,” I say to Pedro. “We just don’t know which place it is on the street.” After finding the listing on the Airbnb site, Pedro says, “I know the owner and I’m calling her now.”

In minutes Pedro and a loudvoiced woman are having an animated exchange on the phone.

Hanging up, he dolefully shakes his head. “She’s never heard of Jose,” he says. “The house is fully rented.

There are lots of people like this,” he adds as he writes “Fraudster” on a napkin and shows Cal. “I don’t know if there are any other places available, but I do have a hotel, ” Pedro adds.

Not knowing whether or not to believe him, Cal and I leave quickly saying, “we want to meet Jose” and Pedro walks out with us.

Within a block, we see a young, bronzed hippie-looking dude with sand in his hair and a feather and shell around his neck, standing on the corner. “You must be Virginia and Cal,” he says shaking our hands. He and Pedro exchange a barrage of unknown Spanish words.

We don’t have to speak Espanol to see they are not “besties.” Pedro steps aside with arms crossed in defiance.

“I have to tell you,” says Jose softly to us. “I am so sorry, but the house you were going to stay in has water and electricity problems.

I’m so sorry, but I have another even better place. If you don’t like it, I will make sure you get all your money back. I suggest you see it.”

I look directly into his eyes, “So, what really happened, Jose? Why didn’t you tell us?” “You already had given me the deposit,” he says to Cal. "The owner refused to fix the basics I knew you needed, so I’m not working there anymore.”

Pedro raises his eyebrows and looks at me with that “I told you so,” air of superiority and walks away, shaking his head. Deep fear is invading the pit of my stomach.

Are we about to get ripped off? Is this a setup?

I pride myself on leaving false fears to the media, but I’m beginning to feel helpless. I can’t tell what Cal’s thinking, but I can feel the cells churning in his head.

We walk a block with Jose and enter a cul de sac of small colorful Mexican casitas in a circle. Two children’s bicycles sit in front of one house, bathing suits hang on a clothes line in front of another, and unseen roosters are crowing loudly.

Jose opens the door to the yellow house and we see a spartan interior, but it’s clean.

Two metal bunk beds sit in the “living room,” plus a matrimonial bed in BR. I turn back the “blanket” which is a woven covering the size of two sheets bath towels sewed together. I see nothing crawling around and the sheets look clean. “I washed them,” says Jose, while I’m not allowing myself to even think how many have slept on them. Several lightbulbs are missing in wall fixtures, and only a few have shades.

“I’ve got to check the kitchen,” I say which means two shelves under a counter. Having stocked our own Vallarta condo for renters with twelve hand painted matching china sets and flatware, I shockingly see six plastic dishes and four plastic glasses, two forks, two spoons and two knives. No microwave. “There are only two of us and we’ll eat out,” we laugh.

The few pieces of décor, I name

'Feather Karma' featuring small stone formations on every surface and strings with a feather and shells hanging on nails on the wall.

“Here’s a French Press,” says Cal excitedly, apparently more comfortable than I. Cal is easily the most flexible mellow partner anyone can have. I admit an obsession with art and other “stuff.” Cal senses my trepidation and awe. “Mexican’s and many others live simply,” says Cal. I want to say, “I don’t,” but I say nothing. I never considering joining the Peace Corps. I camped twice and hated it. But I did live in San Francisco in the Haight-Ashbury and it was far from luxury. I was showing my age and attitude and it could be time for a self-imposed adjustment. But I have to feel safe.

I look at the one front door key with a string for a keychain holding a shell. “How many keys are out there,” I say. “Only one,” says Jose.

“Do you like it?” “We need to talk,” I say looking at Cal. “Come back in half an hour.”

“I’m going to do some research,” I say to Cal. “Ask away,” he says implying, 'I know you’ll do what you want anyway.' I’m desperate to find the truth and solve the puzzle of Jose and Pedro.

In front of a neighbor's house, a friendly looking Mexican man in his 50’s is watering his plants in used paint can containers with a small beautiful girl leaning on him calling him Papa.

She looks at me shyly and curiously. “Como se llama?” I ask.

“Rosanna,” she says, her father looking on proudly. “Soy Gustavo,” says her Papa.

In broken English, Gustavo tells me all six houses in the cul de sac are owned by his “Madre,” and he is one of the sons. Two are rented, an American woman in one with two children, Gustavo’s brother and other family in the rest. He knows Jose, who works with one of the sons. “Is it safe,” I ask Gustavo knowing I’m reaffirming the expat stereotype. “Si. It is familia,” the neighbor says. ”Familia,” he assures me, gesturing toward the casitas.

entertainment

07 “We’ll take it,” I say when Jose returns. “It will be an adventure.

Gets us out of our comfort zone.”

“Let me know if I can do anything,” Jose says smiling. "I just live a half block away.” "How do we contact you?“ I ask. “Through Airbnb like before,” he says. “But, but, I thought…” I don’t finish my sentence. Jose has disappeared.

As I close the door to unpack, I see Pedro walking in the cul de sac with two people looking like Mexican travelers. They go in the back to another building, perhaps to his hotel? I’m filled with questions. Is Pedro an opportunist, and Jose practicing “bait and switch?” I know I may not have the answers.

As any woman would, I rearrange the straggly plants in the milk cartons on the terrace and the three mismatched chairs. Soft Latin sounds from a nearby house drown out the roosters.

I meet the friendly young Venezuelan guy with hair in a bun living across from us. I’m not over my fears and will hide our computers and put a chair in front of the door inside when we sleep, but I’m beginning to put the pieces together and get out of my Gringa bubble.

This is our opportunity to experience the unique peace and joy of a real Mexican community, surrounded by San Pancho’s soundtrack: church bells and crowing roosters.

That night over dinner with Cal, I address the earlier disconnect in our communication. “What were you thinking when you gave me those rolling eyes when Pedro was walking with us to meet Jose?” I ask Cal. “That we’d have no place to stay and would be responsible for sending a young guy to jail,” he says. “And I was thinking Pedro would save us,” I say.

Even after 27 years, we’re still learning about each other. “You really want to spend time on the beach meditating?” I ask.

“There are so many other things we can do.”

“I will find life inside while you’re outside flapping,” he says in his favorite East Indian accent accompanied by chicken wing moves and sounds. We both erupt in laughter, the Taurus and the Twin, clicking our glasses to toast our creative life of compatible differences … not an oxymoron in this case!

Virginia Fox is a storyteller, writer, actor, in Puerto Vallarta and Chicago, She’s a member of the PV Writer’s group and is working on a story collection, “Moon Lady’s Wild Rides.”

Comings…

Those Desperate Princesses, out of earshot of Walt Disney, descend in all their drag glory on the Palm Cabaret Stage April 1 and 2 at 9:30 pm, both shows. This hilarious Perro Bravo Production has sold out the Boutique Theatre, the Palm and Teatro Vallarta in the last three seasons. The production is in Spanish but don’t let that stop you anymore than your lack of Italian would keep you from La Traviata. Picture this: four Disney princesses are still just that – not a queen among them (well….). They get together, 15 years after their weddings, drink, bitch and generally make their dissatisfaction with their respective husbands known. Loud, raucous and funny as hell!

Sexy Elviz Martinez continues ‘All of Me’ in the Red Room for the next two Saturdays.

And Goings…

The Tribute shows at el Rio BBQ Bar ended this past weekend with an energetic, keenly choreographed, explosive romp with the Blues Brothers. This duo flew straight from the close of their regular show in Las Vegas to Vallarta in an emergency Mission from God, or in this case, a plea from Promoter/ Producer Merv Buchanan, to come to Mexico and cover two sold-out shows at the Luna Lounge and one at el Rio. The Canadian Blues Brothers team – half of whom is still in hospital suffering from respiratory problems, were replaced by Jeff Fairchild as Elwood (an uncanny all

T

wo days after his stunning performance at Terra Noble, Diego Mondragon agreed to meet me for an informal interview and lunch on the beach.

I had pad and pen and a recorder in my purse and no clue what I was going to ask. I thought about it for 48 hours but couldn’t formulate a structure. So instead, I listened and here, in stream of consciousness is what I learned.

He is working on his doctorate in psychology in Southern California and practices his field of expertise with young people.

He was a rebellious kid – fighting against his father who insisted Diego play his violin before school. And, after school. And on weekends when he wanted nothing more than to get away and be with his friends. Diego joined the armed forces at nineteen and worked on helicopters getting as far away from Vivaldi and Mozart as he could. The estrangement with his papa, a violinist with the San Diego

March 31 - April 6, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Comings and Goings

round resemblance to Dan Akyroyd) and Ken Levine as Jake (John Belushi is still smiling). Jeff and Ken, their first time in Mexico, had one day off before they returned to Vegas and headed straight back to their regular programming! Thanks, guys, for filling in for Chris and Geoff Dahl…I’ll be looking for your show in Las Vegas – just make sure I get a proper Blues Brothers’ shawl next time, okay?

I just received word that Chris Dahl is finally out of his coma and is expected to make a full recovery.

Good news from Ontario.

My dear friend, Alain Perreault, who was to have his final Cabaret performance at the Palm this week, had to announce the cancellation of his show due to technical difficulties.

He was disappointed, of course, but these things happen. I will keep you posted on his whereabouts. He is the producer of Princesas Desesperadas so we all know he will be at the Palm April 1st and 2nd at 9:30!

I went to see California Dreamin’ Opening Night, January 11th and loved it. Their final curtain is this evening so I will finish this column later!...to be continued…

That didn’t take long, did it?

California Dreamin’ has finished its run; what began in January as a four-week gig was so popular it ran three months. Congratulations to Rhonda Padmos, Musical Director, for getting her idea of a tribute to the lives and music of the Mamas and the Papas on stage, here in Vallarta.

Take a bow, everyone in the cast,

In Conversation…with Diego Mondragon Symphony for decades, continued until Diego learned of his father’s cancer. At this point, Diego’s eyes filled with tears as he spoke of their reconciliation and the joy of playing beautiful music with his papa for five years until his death. We spent some moments then listening to the waves, both thinking of our fathers – their sins and ours.

Over plates of raw oysters and guacamole (No, not mixed together!) our conversation turned to Cuba (he has been twice and yearns to return and immerse himself in Cuban music) and Europe where he plans on spending the summer.

There is a conference to attend in Holland; then it’s music time. He wants to travel around and play his violin. He looks like a troubadour,

I think, with his dark hair and dark sparkling eyes. His handsomeness and his softly-spoken kindness seeps into his skin directly from his

By Marcia Blondin

and enjoy a well-deserved rest. I wonder what you will come up with for next season.

I really don’t like this part of SEASON. The end part where friends, entertainers, musicians scatter like leaves to pick up the threads of their ‘other’ lives and leave us here. To the singers and actors, to the comedians and the story tellers, to the producers and the promoters, to the musicians and the dancers: thank you for making us laugh and cry, to jump up and scream with applause, to hum your tunes walking down the street.

Thanks for enriching our lives and spreading your joyfulness in your craft: you really don’t know the impact you make. Vallarta will miss you. I…will…really…miss…you.

By Marcia Blondin

soul. To see him play evokes fun and rapture; to hear him play is to invite angels to sit down and enjoy the feast.

entertainment Hit Comedy ‘Princesas Desesperadas’ returns to The Palm for Two Farewell Performances

08

T

he smash hit stage comedy, Princesas Desesperadas (Desperate Princesses), will be presented in Spanish by Perro Bravo Productions for two farewell performances April 1 & 2 at 9:30 p.m.at The Palm.

‘Once upon a time, in a very prosperous, peaceful and rich kingdom, four beautiful princesses lived in big castles married to their handsome princes. Some fifteen years after their supposed “happily ever after”, the four princesses who married for love, now find themselves only four Desperate Princesses.’

So goes the premise of this hilarious comedic stage adventure, featuring four well-known Disney Princesses; Snow White, Cinderella, Belle and Sleeping Beauty, who band together and commiserate over cocktails about their dilemmas, after their fairytale love lives have fizzled. What happens next is a fast-paced comedy full of witty one-liners and juicy gossip, where dramatic secrets and broken dreams are revealed.

Inspired in part by the popular television series of US origin, Desperate Housewives, and a huge success locally, selling out at The Palm last season and Teatro Vallarta last November, it was written for the stage in 2007 by Mexican playwright Tomás Urtusástegui. Directed by Ramiro Daniel, the play stars Cesar Daniel Bravo Ramirez, of the critically acclaimed 2015 local production of Equus.

Also starring Juan Carlos Ramirez, Juan Pablo Hernandez Salcedo, and Cesar Trujillo. Now in its third successful year, audiences are still clamoring for more, but according to producer Alain Perreault, this is the very last time to see the Princesses on stage.

Last year, each performance of the Spanish version sold out, so best to reserve early.

Now Playing

Amy Armstrong & Bohemia Viva perform music and comedy in

‘Spanglish II’ through April 3.

Bohemia Viva will have a special reception before their final show on April 2 at 6:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. show time. ‘Miss Conception Goes To The Movies’. All live singing and high-energy dance numbers with Vegas-worthy original costumes, Mondays and Thursdays at 9:30 p.m. through April 4. Kim Kuzma stars with her live band of talented musicians in ‘Acústico’, Sundays and Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m. through April 3. Kay Sedia ‘Taco Kisses’, Drag performer, comical stories and live singing parodies now playing through March 31 at 9:30 p.m. Luna Rumba, Latin fusion and Gypsy-Flamenco. Their final show for the season is 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, open at 10:00 a.m. daily (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/

March 31 - April 6, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Looking Back: Lun

By Debbie White

L

una Lounge in Bucerias completes its phenomenal season of entertainment with a very special show! On Thursday and Friday, March 31st and April 1st, "Truly Tina," a tribute to music star, Tina Turner, will finish up the blockbuster series of dinner/shows that have thrilled North Shore audiences.

Luna Lounge has experienced a remarkable season of stellar entertainment. As it all comes to a close this week, let’s 'look back' at some of the highlights from this wonderful season of shows!

On Christmas night, the fiery Latin duo, "Bohemia Viva," brought their amazing harmonies and beautiful guitar accompaniment to Luna Lounge. New Year's Eve was an extravaganza with Kim Kuzma and her band along with special guest violinist, Diego Mondragon, performing their highly acclaimed "Acustico" show.

In January, Mikki Prost performed her new Connie Francis tribute, "Where The Boys Are." Mezzo Soprano, Isabella Jezowska delivered songs from the great European Composers and returned another evening with an Opera and Musicals show. And Annette Lafond, debuted at Luna Lounge with her Shania Twain tribute, "Shania Live," that was my 'pick of the season' tribute show!

Also in January, Elvis tribute artists, Rob Knight and Dino Macris captivated us with their, "Elvis Birthday Show." Amy Armstrong, Vallarta's darling DIVA of song and comedy, brought two shows to Luna Lounge. First she delighted us with, "Amy Armstrong, Live!!" and then she returned again in early February with "Spanglish."

Andrea and Luis from "Bohemia Viva" added incredible harmonies and classical guitar to Amy's great comedic performances.

Halfway through January, Luna Lounge hosted their annual "Mexican Fiesta" night with an authentic Mexican feast along with the Pre-historic Aztec Show, The Folkloric Ballet and La Joya De Mexico, a 13-piece Mariachi band.

Paul Fracassi presented his popular "Walk Like A Man" tribute to Frankie Vallie and the Four Seasons. Amberly Beatty entertained her audience with a terrific tribute to the legendary, Patsy Cline.

And Brian McCullough presented a spot-on tribute performance to the

fabulous music of Roy Orbison.

In February, Las Vegas headliner, Lorena Peril and hubby Ray Jon delighted the audience with their extraordinary talent, bringing us many well-loved songs. Tribute artist, Will Chalmers, performed his Neil Diamond show; bringing us the best loved hits and persona of one of music's most iconic stars.

Miss Conception (the entertaining drag character of Kevin Levesque) performed her new show, "Miss Conception Goes To The Movies."

With marvelous vocals, fabulous costumes and a special, theatrical flair, Miss Conception was one of my favorite shows! Famous NYC stringed quartet, "Well-Strung" brought two shows with impressive vocals and a new, popular twist on the 'chamber music' genre, their eclectic style was a winner!

On Valentine's Day, international recording artist and performer, Dwight Blake entertained us with his romantic show, "Memories of Motown. Country artist and Las Vegas veteran, Dean Simmons, performed his Garth Brooks tribute show to two sold out audiences and Rob Knight returned with a new Elvis tribute show, "A Salute to Elvis."

We finished off the month of February with one of Vallarta's favorite bands, "Luna Rumba."

With passionate Latin, Flamenco, Cuban, Arabic and Celtic beats, this extraordinary band has been selling out all their shows around the Bay and we were thrilled to have them debut their Bucerias show at Luna Lounge.

In March, Paul Fracassi returned with his original show, "Legends of the 50's and 60's." We were also excited to experience the music of Johnny Cash with tribute artist, Bill Cayley. Annette Lafond returned once again with her superb, 'Shania Live" show.

Next, Dave LaFame got the ladies excited with his "This Is Tom Jones" show. Frank Rondell brought us his Ray Charles's tribute show, joined by guest artists Dave LaFame and Annette Lafond. It turned into a wonderful variety show that the audience loved!

On March 13th, Luna Lounge headed North to La Peñita to present two shows. There was an impressive turnout for both, "The Crazy Bitches" and "This is Tom Jones." Next season Luna Lounge hopes to share more entertainment with their neighbors up the coast.

Luna Lounge celebrated Saint

entertainment

09

na Lounge this Season Patrick's Day in style, as usual.

There was corned beef and cabbage and Guinness stew along with a great party that didn’t end until midnight.

The drinks were flowing along with traditional Irish music and two live bands in the evening.

Irish hosts, Hugh Gaffney and his mum, Alice, greeted their guests with a big Irish welcome all day and night!

Also in March, "Rocky Mountain High, The Music of John Denver," was performed to an enthusiastic audience. The sold out crowd enjoyed the inspiring, heartfelt music of John Denver, performed by Paul Aleman and Renee Armand (a John Denver band member) and heard some amazing stories about touring and singing with John. I can only describe their performance as PURE MAGIC! This past week, the Blue’s Brothers tribute show, "Soul Man," came to Luna Lounge for two packed performances.

What a fun evening of entertainment! There were lots of zany antics and audience-pleasing moments!

And, as we end the season, a special thanks goes out to Merv Buchanan and his wife Sandy who booked many of these incredible, sold out shows for Luna Lounge this season. We also send our love and appreciation to Luna Lounge owners, Hugh and Simon for being such fabulous hosts and to Hugh's mum, Alice, who many of us have come to know and love!

Hugh and Simon wish to thank their wonderful kitchen staff, Jaime, Mary and Ricarda; their wait staff - Santiago, Norberto, Tracy and Kenia; and to Ezequiel, their incredible bartender and to Liz, their cashier. Thank you, Gillian for being an amazing hostess!

And thank you to Concha, who cleans the place every day so Luna Lounge guests can enjoy clean and beautiful facilities.

Thanks go out to the performers of the highly popular, "Crazy Bitches" show that was featured each Tuesday and Wednesday throughout the season. And a word of thanks and appreciation goes to "The New Coyotes Band" that performed each Monday night after the 2x1 Rib dinner.

Luna Lounge also wishes to thank the wonderful guests who came to the shows and who continue to support them.

Special thanks goes to their Gold Club and Season Pass members.... as well.

Hugh and Simon look forward to seeing you here at Luna Lounge next season with wonderful new shows and a chance to see some of their biggest 'encore' performances again.

Have a fabulous summer and be sure to look forward to another season of food, fun and world class entertainment at Luna Lounge starting next November!

March 31 - April 6, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

local

10

Paradise

and Parenting Leza Warkentin

mommyinmexico.wordpress.com

My Kind of Crowd

I

f you want to get away from the multitudes during Semana Santa, which is a popular time for Mexicans to travel, I don’t really have much to recommend. A lot of people have told me that if I travel ANYWHERE in Mexico other than a coastal town, I will be able to avoid the crowds, because everyone goes to the beaches in Puerto Vallarta, Cancun, and Mazatlan.

I have found this advice to be profoundly misleading. I’ve spent several Easter vacations unsuccessfully asserting my children’s right to experience such things as the panda bears at the Mexico City Zoo while being elbowed out of the way by more experienced local parents.

When I first moved to Mexico, my colleagues and I figured we’d be these crazy backpacking fools and go to new, exciting places on Easter break so we could get away from the crowds. We tasted tequila in Tequila, did some tile-shopping in Puebla, and camped on the black sand beaches in Cuyultlan, Colima.

Without fail, everyone else in Mexico got there first, buying up the coffee-flavored raicilla and drinking all the Coco Locos on the beach.

We even traveled 70km outside of Oaxaca City to a tiny mountain

hotsprings called Hierve el Agua, meeting precisely zero human persons on the gravel switchbacks.

When we got to the top I jumped out of the car, excited to breathe some lonely air and jump in a natural springs-fed basin.

I think I squashed some poor kid’s floatie and spilled his dad’s beer when I jumped into a throng of bathers. So much for traveling Where Others Feared to Tread.

So at this point in my life, I have decided that my goal is not to avoid the multitudes of Semana Santa.

My purpose is only to relax, by whatever means necessary (and with the hope that the means are also relaxing).

One of my husband’s hermanos en la musica, Edgar Farid Barik, is a manager at his family’s resort, Hotel Balneario San Juan Cosala, located in a town by the same name along the beautiful Lake Chapala. Hot springs well up from the ground there, and the family has been using the mineral-rich waters to create a lovely oasis for the last fifty years.

Parents: You need to read this part carefully. You must come here with either a) another family or (as we did) b) grandparents. Because this hotel also has a spa that contains several soak tubs with the

From Here

by Marcia Blondin marciavallarta@gmail.com

H

alf-way through the March Madness that is Easter/ Spring Break. The storm before The Calm that will arrive the same as it does every year with an abruptness that leaves us all gasping from the vacuum

created when thousands of people rush away from our home. What a season we have had! The best (busiest) one in years; we have been long overdue.

Thank you to our tourists from all over the globe, who eschewed

following ingredients: apple cider vinegar, coffee, red wine, flowers, jamaica water, oatmeal, soy milk, among others. Imagine this! You can SOAK in the very things that give you the most pleasure in your life (Edgar wisely reminded me beforehand that the coffee and red wine was for soaking purposes only).

The spa also contains a “temascal” (natural steam room), aromatherapy, massage rooms, and a mud bath area. For 155 pesos each, you will be able to enjoy a two hours and forty minute tour of the different soaking tubs, mud treatment and steam room and KIDS ARE NOT ALLOWED! Not only that, there are several thermal pools all over the grounds where children ARE allowed, and one of them includes a diving board and water slides. The rooms were spacious and bright, and they have silent-after-10pm rule that is actually enforced! Yes friends, I have the phone number!

About fifteen minutes away is the picturesque town of Ajiic where you can stroll along a calm, family-friendly malecon along the lake.

My kids got a gentle horse ride along the shore for 50 pesos each, led by a young, cheerful cowboy who clearly doted on his animals.

Did we escape the crowds on this year’s Easter vacation? Absolutely not. There were many people at Lake Chapala, and most of them were national tourists. But at the Hotel Balneario San Juan Cosala, the family environment wrapped us up like a warm blanket. Whether we were relaxing in the soaking tubs, flying down the water slides, or sitting on our outside deck, we were among people who, like us, were finally getting a chance to reconnect with the people that they loved.

March 31 - April 6, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Wellness

Latina

Marcella Castellanos

info@wellnesslatina.com

Chia Monkey

And that’s my kind of crowd.

The mystery ingredient that you may not have heard about is diatomaceous earth. Diatomaceous earth helps remove chemicals, mercury, chemicals, allergies, GMOs and parasites. It's a naturally occurring rock made from fossilized hard shelled algae. Diatomaceous earth that is food-grade is chemical-free and non-toxic.

Diatomaceous earth is a fantastic supplement because it not only helps move things out of

your intestines, it is also fantastic for healthier skin, hair, bones and joints.

It contains silica which helps production of collagen in the skin.

And this helps our hair and nails as well.

You can start small by adding a teaspoon to a glass of 12 oz. glass of water on an empty stomach. Mix vigorously, but it will still have a chalky, gritty feel to it. Or you can also mix with juice, cereal, or the flavorful smoothie I gave you a recipe for above.

You can get diatomaceous earth at Organic Select on Calle Francia or most places that have nutrition and supplements.

Love and wellness to you.

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.

She looks at the whole picture and helps you incorporate plantstrong 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.

CNN warnings/travel advisories/ exchange-rates-from-hell, came, saw and loved Vallarta. We’ll just wait right here for you all to come back soon. The Spring Concert at Terra Noble will go down in Vallarta’s burgeoning musical history as the best ensemble performance ever. Period. What CK Productions will do to follow THAT remains to be seen! First, the setting: The Terra Noble property sits on top of a mountain overlooking the city, mountains and the sea; breathtaking any time of the day. At night, with Vallarta’s lights twinkling way down below – and with a full moon rising? Positively enchanting! Celebrations Vallarta served up delicious tidbits as always. If you are

throwing an end-of-season party, do yourself a favour and contact Jim Lee and Sean Carey and let them work their magic so you can just relax and enjoy.

With minimal but obligatory technical problemitas (what IS IT about Vallarta and electrical interferences?

Methinks we all have to unplug), the show opened with Gabriel Reyes; he entertains weekly at our Friday Marsol Market by the Pier.

I saw him earlier that day, sweating bullets from fever and sick as a dog. His performance, however, at the Concierto de Primavera was flawless - he hit every note and no one guessed anything was amiss.

Bravo, Gabriel. Those of you who missed him at Terra Noble, come

Friday to the Marsol Market and enjoy his music while you shop.

The main event centered on violinist Diego de Jesus Mondragon Lavallade (see “In Conversation” in this issue).

The stage was packed with predominantly jazz-oriented musicians and a flamenco dancer who, together with Diego, presented what many in the audience called ‘the best concert they had ever seen’. Laudatory praise, indeed.

My closing comments last week are worth reiterating: some of our tourists are not very environmentally conscious (my politically correct phrase for the week), so just help pick up, okay? Try to think of it as Spring Cleaning…

T

here are many variations of this easy, nutritious smoothie, but I like this particular one because it has ingredients to get rid of gross bugs that shouldn't be in your body and adds many vitamins and minerals, fats and proteins that should be in your body for optimal vitality.

12 oz. almond milk 1 banana Bunch of kale 2 Tblsp. avocado 1.5 Tblsp. cacao powder 1 Tblsp. chia 2 Tblsp. hemp seeds 1 Tblsp. diatomaceous earth 2 dates optional or stevia to taste ice.

local

11

My Life In Vallarta Lois Ellison

loell87@yahoo.com

Go With The Flow

R

ecently a friend emailed me lamenting some construction projects underway in her neighborhood. One will ruin her view; the other is disproportionate in size to other buildings in the area, despite zoning regulations.

Ah yes, you think, this is happening all over Puerto Vallarta. Well, guess again folks. My friend lives in California.

Vallarta is currently experiencing some major growing pains, particularly on the Southside.

Everywhere you turn you see tall buildings rising up and you hear people talking about the ruination of Vallarta. This isn’t the first time we’ve had a growth spurt and it probably won’t be the last. In fact, the entire Banderas Bay landscape you see today would have been unimaginable when I first came here thirty years ago.

Whether you frequent an area

or live there fulltime, changes happen, usually gradually, and often go without notice. You go north for the summer and when you return there may be a few new buildings, a wider road, a bigger airport. Nothing particularly startling. As the population grows, slowly but surely, there are more buses, more taxis and more stores.

More everything.

Today, looking north, you see almost continuous development all the way to Punta de Mita. In the not so distant past, the only town you could see in that direction was Bucerias. Punta de Mita was just a dozen huts with palapa roofs.

The streets of Nuevo Vallarta were there, but only a handful of properties had been developed. Mostly it was still a visionary’s dream of things to come.

South of town, homes and condos line the highway and teeter precariously on steep mountain sides. Now imagine thirty years

ago: just a few resorts, even fewer homes and condos; the lush jungle covering most of the terrain and that was seemingly impossible to be developed. I don’t know how many times I said “they’ll never be able to build on that spot” and yet, they did.

Over these last thirty years, the area between the airport and the Pemex gas station where the highway heads south has been transformed with in-fill projects.

Hotels, housing developments and high rise condominium projects replaced traditional Mexican neighborhoods and open spaces. The village of Pitillal, once a distant country village surrounded by farms, is now part of the continuum of growth and development.

If you are feeling nostalgic for the “good old days of Vallarta”, just remember what some of that was like: no Costco, Sam’s, Home Depot or Wal-Mart; no long distance telephone service in your home (you had to go to a special store); for that matter, no phone at all; no cabarets, theater groups, movie theaters or music venues for English speakers; few restaurants serving anything other than Mexican food. Whether or not you think these are good things, the fact is, without the influx of people that created this growth, they would not be here today.

Cities and towns everywhere are organic, expanding and contracting over time. For better or worse, nothing stays the same.

And so it is here in the Banderas Bay area. One of the best places to see this contrast is on the ground level of the Lindo Mar resort south of town. The walls are lined with “then and now” photos. Ironically, the “now” photos are all quite dated compared to the town today.

My personal feelings about the growth, both past and present, are a mixed bag. I miss the traditional architecture and magnificent trees that have been sacrificed to make way for hulking structures devoid of Mexican charm. On the other hand, I love the availability of modern conveniences, international cuisine and cultural diversity.

The changes we see today can’t be stopped any more than the changes of yesterday could be.

When the building you’re staying in was built, it may well have blocked someone else’s view or replaced someone’s traditional home.

Fortunately, the essence of Vallarta is unchanged. Why exhaust yourself swimming upstream fretting over things you can’t control.

Do yourself a favor, relax and go with the flow.

Under the Palapa

I

started this column because I wanted to chronicle my almost suicidal journey through the vagaries of buying a condo here in PV. It was only through good luck and the kindness of strangers that I am still standing, albeit slightly more stooped than I once was.

Many people say they cannot believe what I went through, and some have unkindly suggested that I might have let my imagination run away with me. Let me assure you that everything I wrote about happened, although it was recounted with a patina of amusement. In fact, people on our street who witnessed my pain often ask me why I have not written about the many other things that took place. I simply reply that we would be entering the world of the super-surreal if I foisted all that happened onto my loyal readers.

However, in spite of biblical tests of patience and endurance, my wife and I count ourselves lucky to live where we do. On the other hand if you have never read me before on the two blogs where I used to appear, then I invite you to go my web site www.majorscorner.com where all my previous columns as well as my other scribbles appear.

This column will deal not only with the ongoing delights of owning a condo in Mexico but also life in Puerto Vallarta through my eyes.

Here goes.

We are now in the madhouse of Semana Santa, the Holy Week, where Mexico goes collectively nuts.

It is the time of year when many Mexicans make an exodus to the seaside, with Puerto Vallarta high on the list of places to go to. The combination of religious and riotous activities create ecclesiastic chaos, fun and incredible noise. Church bells ringing for hidden reasons and trucks with speakers blasting music at mind-melting volume are an integral part of the festivities.

In the El Centro district where we live, the week starts with a religious ceremony on Good Friday, including a priest following someone playing Jesus who is seemingly being beaten by two Roman soldiers with cat-o-nine-tails. Rarely, the soldiers get carried away by the crowds of spectators and lay into the Christ figure a little too realistically. This results in a look of outrage from the brutalized actor, who might

By Chris Dalton

www.majorscorner.com

well be thumb-dialing his agent to complain. After much apologizing from the enthusiastic Romans, the procession continues but with Jesus still eyeing the légionnaires with a high degree of suspicion.

Thankfully nothing untoward happened this year.

The priest has a mic from which he spreads his blessing upon our barrio, with the speakers for his sound system being carried by one of the many followers. It is quite a spectacle as the group winds through the streets and back down the hill to the church.

Meanwhile, pickup trucks with massive speakers have been setting up for late afternoon parties that seem to gain strength around midnight. These always redefine the point at which a human eardrum reaches a noise level that becomes intolerable. The fact that children can sleep through these assaults upon the inner ear deserves study, as it is a mystery to those of us who stuff socks into our ears.

Mexicans arrive in our town in such numbers as to make us snowbirds irrelevant, which is as it should be, for it is their holiday and they can do as they wish. As for my wife and me, we are left shouting at each other for a week or so after Semana Santa is over or at least till the sound level is reduced to the former one. That is the level at which we just have to talk over the neurotic barking of dogs and the puffed-up roosters, which is the norm. Before I arrived in Mexico I did not honestly know what noise could be.

Happy holiday to our Mexican neighbours.

C Christopher Dalton 2016.

Christopher Dalton has produced multitudes of commercials as well as fourteen movies in Canada and the US. He was expelled from every institute of higher learning, forcing him hide out in advertising and movies until popping up in Puerto Vallarta with his long suffering wife Michelle.

Visit his web site www.majorscorner.com

Same Owners Since 1981

Flower of the Week Crown of Thorns Corona de Cristo (Spanish) Euphorbia milii

C

hrist Plant or Crown of Christ. A succulent climbing shrub with multiple woody stems growing to 6 feet tall with dense slender spines and flowers of red or pink. A native to Madagascar, it’s sap is mildly

by Sandra Cesca

poisonous, especially to animals and children. Introduced to the Middle East during ancient times, legend associates it with the crown of thorns worn by Christ.

This plant is one of over 200 found in Sandra’s color-coded guidebook, Tropical Plants and Walks of Puerto Vallarta. Available at Page in the Sun Bookstore, and from Sandra at the Marsol Artisan’s Market on Fridays. Information on her many area walks can be found at: www.escaperoutevallarta.com.

The Real BBQ

Find us. You’ll be happy you did.

Slow Smoked Ribs • Live Music • River & Beach www.elriobbqbar.com elriobbqbar RED = Pantone PMS 485 C BLUE = Pantone PMS 289 C YELLOW = Pantone Yellow C

The Real BBQ

Find us. You’ll be happy you did.

Slow Smoked Ribs • Live Music • River & Beach Felipe Angeles #245, Col. Paso Ancho • Ruta 04

elriobbqbar • www.elriobbqbar.com • 322.222.2510 RED = Pantone PMS 485 C

BLUE = Pantone PMS 289 C YELLOW = Pantone Yellow C

riviera nayarit

16

March 31 - April 6, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Understanding (

I

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

Hey everybody!

W

e are shifting into “end of the season” energy as we head into the last weekend of Semana Santa.

Semana Santa does take its toll in the pueblos and beaches and folks are in clean-up mode already!

Lend a helping hand if you can.

The government knows how many people come to the playa. Why they don’t provide more trash cans is beyond me! One thing I have noticed is that there are not any firecrackers / M80’s going off this year, which is a huge change as usually they go off for all occasions.

The La Cruz playa, La Manzanilla is in full swing! (gracias John Pounder) This is the last weekend and then it’s all over!

The end of the season is more realized for me with the “EMPTY THE FRIDGES PARTY” which is the last night of business for the season at Luna Lounge. Their party will be on Monday, April 4th, as they serve up what I think is the BEST BBQ around, beginning at 6:30pm until all of their food has run out.

All you can eat Arrachera Steak, Garlic and Cilantro Chicken, BBQ Ribs and Spanish Chorizo, and the delicious homemade salads that Simon makes, all for only 195 pesos; along with drink specials and live music. And, as usual…you know they will have some special surprise guests! No reservations necessary…just come on down to the Luna Lounge, AV. Mexico #27, Kitty-corner from Esquina 22 Bar and Lounge who is also moving to a lighter schedule, but will be remaining open for the summer season. Yeah! They have AC! Beginning March 27th until October 1st they will be closed on Sundays. Right now live music abounds on Wednesday and Thursdays. I am fortunate to be friends with Alain and Arturo, and it was their 17th Anniversary together last week! Alain surprised Arturo with a full on Mariachi Band, much to

Aruturo’s delight! What a fun celebration of love!

I also stopped by Esquina 22 after a day hike with friends at the Alta Vista Petroglyphs; one of my favorite jungle hikes. The “keepers” of the trails have been doing an excellent job of keeping it very clean of trash and foliage. The traffic was very backed up on the way home due to an accident in La Peñita, as the 200 road is still only a 2 lane hwy. So, we took the back roads towards the hot pots…what an adventure!

MORE New News around the North Banderas Bay….

I recently read that a paramedic of Proteccion Civil Nayarit used the last remaining Epipen they had (donated several months ago) on the Bucerias beach for a fellow who had an allergic reaction to a bee sting. The paramedics would appreciate any donations of medical supplies, like Epipens, as they have no funds to buy them.

Please email sokitx@aol.com for assistance in getting the supplies to them.

Breakers Beach Club in Bucerias still has live music going on.

Enlace Trio is performing on the beach every Monday from 4-7, and Wednesday nights are Adrianna and the “Whats Up” band performing from 6-9. They also have “3 to Rock” on Sundays from 3-6.

Music abounds …and on my journey I met my friend Jess for dinner at Falconi’s Pizza in La Cruz, where R&R (Randy and Russell) Hardly Strictly Blues band happened to be playing!

The place was packed except for one table - as if it was just waiting for us! R&RHSB band features Randy Wilson on vocals, lead and rhythm guitar, Russell Cresto on vocals and harmonica and guest Dave Kimes on lead guitar. I must say I thought not having a drummer was great for a small venue; the music sounded great and you could still have a conversation.

Falconi’s Pizza has some of the BEST Alfredo pasta around,

which is what I ordered, along with a fresh green salad; Very nice! My friend ordered the Calzone, which was muy grande! All so delicious.

The R&R Hardly Strictly Blues band will be playing again (with Dave) this Saturday, April 2nd, beginning at 6:30, and probably for a couple more Saturdays after that, so get in there and enjoy!

Randy Wilson is an amazing musician and will also be playing solo acoustic guitar on Philo’s on April 13th. What fun music and delicious food in La Cruz.

Amanditas Bay Curry in Bucerias had such a successful event when Raoul and Jimmy Shiva came to play Kirtan music that Amanda has invited them back for more! Enjoy a delicious Indian fest and the inspirational music of Raoul and Jimmy Shiva.

Black Forest Restaurant in La Cruz will be closing for lunch for the summers. Opening for lunch was a new thing for them this season and they thank everyone for coming in.

The Blond Gypsies with Latcho and Andrea will be playing April 1st and reservations are definitely recommended!

Join in on the campaign to reduce waste! This is awesome!

For years the folks at the Black Forest Restaurant have used the polystyrene food containers for their guests who like to take out their food or part of it. Unfortunately, all plastics have polystyrene which is non-biodegradable.

This means that “the remnants of your takeout will be chilling on planet Earth for up to 500 years from now and its chemical components will still clog the eco-system.

Polystyrene’s bulky eternity accounts for one-quarter of our landfill waste.” This plastic also ends up in our oceans. Andrea, an owner at Black Forest says, “As business owners, parents and citizens of our beautiful Bahía de Banderas we would like to be socially and environmentally responsible and therefore we would like to ask you to join us in our campaign.” So take note everyone! Our choices are very powerful and every choice counts.

Say no to unnecessary packaging wherever you shop! The Black Forest folks would ask that you “Bring your own reusable’s (BYOR).

You can bring your own containers or your own bag. We can provide you with reusable, microwaveable containers for an additional fee of 10 pesos. Enjoy your food, save your money, improve your health and help our planet!” Why not do this everywhere you go? Bring your own “to-go” containers. REUSE, RENEW, RECYCLE, REDUCE and RESPECT OUR PLANET! Together we can RAISE AWARENESS and create big changes in the waste we create on a daily basis. THANK YOU EVERYONE! Follow the Route of the Mezcal Another fun event coming our way! Several restaurants around the Banderas Bay are excited and proud to introduce you to the traditional Mexican beverage by celebrating with the “Semana del Mezcal” from April 15th to April 27th. Each day a different restaurant will offer a 3-course menu which will include a paring of Mezcal for each course.

During your enjoyment the Master Mexcalier, Esteban Serrano, will explain the different types of Mezcal, the distillation process and answer any questions you may have.

You may enjoy the “Semana del Mezcal” at the Black Forest Restaurant in La Cruz on Thursday, April 21st, beginning at 6:30pm.

The price per person is 399 pesos.

Get your tickets while they last!

Thanks for tuning in and always if you have any questions please email me at Cat@RivieraNayaritFun.com or Cat@NewEnergyConscioiusness.com.

Check out the calendars on allLaCruz.com and allBucerias. com and our Riviera Nayarit Fun FB page for the latest! As a final note, remember your thoughts create! Just like a baking a cake, watch the ingredients that go into your creating! MORE on that later!

Have a super fun weekend on the Riviera Nayarit! AHO!

n light of the high waves, rough conditions and the dozens of rescues at the beaches around the Bay of Banderas over the past few weeks here is some relevant information on recognizing rip currents and what to do if you should find yourself in one.

A rip current is a narrow, fast-moving channel of water that starts near the beach and extends offshore through the line of breaking waves.

At the Beach

When you first get to the beach, the best thing you can do is swim near a lifeguard. And then if you have questions about if the conditions are hazardous or not, ask a lifeguard. And then many beaches have things like a flag system, or other forms of communication to be able to tell you if the conditions are hazardous.

But if you go to a beach without a lifeguard, when you get there, you want to make sure you know how to spot a rip current, and if you get caught in one, know how to get out. And then when you go in the water, always bring flotation.

Always let a lifeguard make a rip current rescue, because often, the people that try to make rescues themselves end up being the ones who drown. Instead, the best way to help is to throw them something that floats and immediately get a lifeguard for help.

What to Do

If you do get caught in a rip current, the best thing you can do is stay calm. It's not going to pull you underwater, it's just going to pull you away from shore.

Call and wave for help. You want to float, and you don't want to swim back to shore against the rip current because it will just tire you out. You want to swim out of the rip, parallel to shore, along the beach and then follow breaking waves back to shore at an angle.

Spotting a Rip Current

Spotting a rip current can be difficult, and really needs some practice. But when you go to the beach, start off by staying back from the water. Rip currents are easier to see at an elevated position, like a dune line or beach access, and then look for places where waves aren't breaking, so flat spots in the line of breaking waves. And then also where there's maybe foam or sediment in the water being transported away from the beach offshore.

Before you go to the beach, always check your local beach

riviera nayarit

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March 31 - April 6, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Bucerias Art

(and Surviving) Rip Currents

District Beat

By Gordon Mayer

Art Knows No Season conditions. Look at the wave forecast.

If you have waves two to three feet high or greater, you could have strong rip currents. And then look to see if there's a hazardous rip current statement for your local beach. And then always check the tide as well.

Rip currents often occur at low tide, and if you're going to the beach during a period of low tide, just be mindful that strong rip currents could occur.

Rips are not caused by weather People often misunderstand and think that rip currents only occur during bad-weather days at the beach but actually, you can have strong rip currents with sunny days and waves of only about two to three feet high. And the reason for that is that rip currents aren't really caused by the weather. They're caused by the waves and other factors like the tide and the shape of the bottom.

Rip currents can occur anywhere you have breaking waves, like large sandy beaches on the open ocean.

But they can also occur where you have hard structures, like jetties, or piers, or even rocks jutting out into the ocean.

In terms of the tide, usually rip currents are going to occur more at low tide when you have waves breaking over the sandbar near shore.

And that's the third part, the sandbars. Usually you're going to have strong rip currents where you have significant sandbar near the shore with a channel in it.

More information at ripcurrents. noaa.gov

www.cuisineofthesun.villagroupresorts.com

T

o everything there is a season…” and as the last Bucrerias Art Walk for this season happens in our beloved Bucerias Art District (B.A.D) it could possibly be said that the season has come to an end. While there is definitely a time now for a change of pace and different activities, the artists and artisans, galleries, restaurants and businesses of the B.A.D will still be creating and finding inspiration to bring their unique art and community to the next level in a few short months.

Art knows no season. Inspiration knows no boundary except those we impose on ourselves.

So the beat changes and the rhythm the B.A.D moves to becomes subdued for a time, allowing us the chance to stretch ourselves, allowing creative thoughts to sweep across us and gently nudge us in new directions. It is a time to reflect, a time to remind and a time to renew. It is time to let your mind play, prepare and dream while the taste of the Bucerias Art District is still fresh in mind.

Having trouble? Not surprising as we are inundated at every turn with information and distraction from a multitude of sources. What can you do to find those times of creative inspiration and just dream? Allow me to tip my hat and humbly offer the B.A.D Beat as your touchpoint until you find yourself again literally within arms’ reach of the sights and sounds, tastes and talents of our district.

Over the next few months we hope to stir your soul with the inspirational stories of the artists of the B.A.D. Nationals and ex-pats, experienced and newly minted in their craft, each has a different story to tell and each has the desire to share the gift of creative inspiration they have been given and are developing.

All are members of the B.A.D community and make us what we are, as they bring their art and personality together like bringing coals in a fire together to generate heat and create a blazing fire of

artistic beauty. Join us each week here as we stir the coals and keep the flame burning until we meet on the street again in the 3rd week of November.

Now that you know where to find your connection to the creative pulse over the spring and summer, let me invite you to action and interaction as we move together.

Do you know an artist in the B.A.D whose art has connected with you in a significant way? Did you experience the B.A.D this season and did it have a positive effect on you? How has art shaped who you are? Has the art of the B.A.D helped you to make a positive change? What are your thoughts about the B.A.D and its unique and marvelous community? We want to know and where we can, we want to share the nuances of the artistic rhythm that is moving you. Tell us about it. Email us at: BuceriasArtMexico@outlook.com and tell us your story. Share your inspiration with us and then watch as it becomes part of the Beat that we all move to in the Bucerias Art District. While we shift seasons and move to a different beat to enjoy the varying times of life, allow us to guide you past old boundaries of possibility and into new experiences.

Who knows, maybe you will find yourself in the B.A.D sooner than you think and longer than you ever imagined.

Let’s start dreaming now about a new season in our lives.

cuisine

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March 31 - April 6, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Muchos Mangos

O

ne of the most celebrated tropical fruits out there, mangoes are ripe for the picking in the next few months. Characterized by juicy, fibrous flesh and an oblong pit in the center, mangoes are refreshing and delicious. The mango is distantly related to the cashew, pistachio, poison ivy, and poison oak; native to southern Asia. Mangoes are loaded with protective nutrients like vitamins C and A, potassium, and copper. They're often referred to as "king of the fruit."

There are over 1,000 known cultivars of mangoes available; however, the most popular varieties are Ataulfo, Tommy Atkins, Keitt, Kent and Haden. In 2014, world mangoes exports were US$2.1 billion. Mexico was the top exporter in the world with $280 million usd accounting for 13.5% of the total market. India and the Philippines come in second and third for export values.

One of the most prolific and sweetest varieties of mangos, the Ataulfo (aht-ah-uhl-foe) is found throughout the Bay of Banderas and as you drive north through Nayarit you will see mango orchards aplenty.

It has a smooth, creamy flesh, a small thin pit and holds the title of many people’s favorite variety of mango.

Here are a few of our favorite tips, tricks and recipes to savor this magnificent mango.

How To Pick A Mango

How To Cut A Mango

Peak season for local mangos is from April to June – yes, only a few short weeks.

When fully ripe, their skins turn from green to deep golden yellow and feel soft to the touch.

1. Slice off the two “cheeks” on either side of the flat oblong mango pit.

2. With a knife, gently cut a crisscross pattern into the cut sides of each “cheek,” taking care not to cut through the skin. Repeat with other side.

3. Turn both sides inside out and remove the inverted cubes of mango from the skin . . . or eat as-is!

Mango-licious Recipe Ideas Now that you can successfully pick the perfect mango and safely cut it, let’s cook! Here are some of our favorite fuss-free ways to savory this seasonal delight.

Sweet and spicy fruit cups: Sprinkle mango, pineapple and jicama with chile-spiked salt and a squeeze of lime-juice. Serve Mexican style in a cup with a skewer for easy eating.

Beverages: The Ataulfo’s lack of stringy fibers make it easy to purée making mango drinks a breeze.

• Smoothie: mango, yogurt and fruit juice plus more fruits and veggies • Agua Fresca: mango, water, lime juice and agave nectar (add your favorite spirit for a tropical cocktail) • Lassi: mango, milk, yogurt and dashes of sugar and cardamom Salsa: Dice mangos, red peppers, jalapeños and onion. Add chopped cilantro and lime-juice to serve with chips, tacos or grilled foods. Hint: add chopped cooked shrimp and chill for a delicious version of ceviche.

Desserts: Bake mangos into tarts, cobblers, tea breads and muffins or add diced or puréed mangos to sorbets, rice pudding and frozen pops.

Source: wholefoodsmarket.com, seriouseats.com, mango.org

Tuesday to Saturday 4-11pm

10% discount on all food and drinks with this coupon Venustiano Carranza 276 Romantic Zone 223 2267

real estate

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March 31 - April 6, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Do your homework – Down payments Roberto Ortiz de Montellano Farias roberto@ortizdemontellano.com

If you are buying real estate in Mexico, not doing your homework can be more costly than a lowly “F”.

W

hen buying any kind of product, it is expected from the buyer to make inquiries before paying for that product. A smart buyer makes informed decisions and making these informed decisions is required especially when buying property.

Moreover, if you are buying real estate in Mexico, you have to be even more cautious when making an informed decision. You should always do your homework gathering information on the property before making any kind of payment, inclu-

ding a down payment to the seller or an initial deposit to an escrow company, and also when making a down payment to the Notary for closing costs.

So what can happen if I put a deposit on escrow or give a down payment before doing my homework?

Representations from the seller stated in a documented Offer do not guarantee that the seller is free to transfer title or that property is free of any leans or encumbrances.

If you rely only on these representations, you could later have a (not-so-pleasant) surprise.

There are several aspects that

can complicate (and sometimes totally impede) the closing process, such as: (i) the legal capacity of the seller to transfer title, (ii) liens or encumbrances on the property, (iii) any outstanding balance on the property tax.

This is why one should always conduct a title verification or a legal

audit on the property before putting any money down, otherwise you can lose that money.

Don’t depend on the kindness of strangers If you’ve made a down payment (either for the price of the property

or for closing costs) and for any reason you decide to cancel the purchase, it may be very hard to get that money back, mainly because you will depend on the good will of the seller. This is why before making any payment, you shouldn’t forget to do your homework and then you will be making an A+ purchase.

local

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March 31 - April 6, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Sammy Davis Jr. - A Rare Talent

By Fred Jacobs

S

ammy was born in Harlem in New York in 1925. His father was an African American Vaudeville entertainer, and his mother was an Afro-Cuban dancer.

Sammy’s first years were spent raised by his grandmother, and his parents separated when Sammy was just three years old.

Sammy’s father did not want to lose custody of him, so he took him on tour with him. Sammy learned to dance at an early age and eventually formally joined his father's’ act. His father and others on the tour, shielded Sammy from the racism of the day, by explaining acts of racism as jealousy.

The sheltered life came to an abrupt end when Sammy joined the Army during World War II. Sammy was immediately confronted with intense racial prejudice and quickly realized the protection he’d received from his father up until then. Sammy later said he “appreciated the loving hope that I'd never need to know about prejudice and hate.”

The Army assigned Davis to an integrated entertainment Special Services unit, and he found that the spotlight lessened the prejudice. Sammy is quoted as saying, "My talent was a weapon against racism.” This was a fight that Sammy would continue most of his life.

After leaving the Army, Sammy rejoined his family dance act on tour, and also started recording songs for Capital Records. Throughout the early 1950’s, the stage act became wildly popular, especially when Sammy launched into his impressions segment. Sammy was also gaining favor with critics for his solo work and recorded several full-length albums.

This solo success led to Sammy singing the title track for the movie “Six Bridges to Cross” (1954) and landing the Broadway lead role in the play “Mr. Wonderful” (1956).

By 1959, Sammy had become a member of the infamous “Rat Pack” which included Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Joey Bishop, and Peter Lawford.

The Rat Pack went on to make several movies together, including the original of “Ocean's 11” (1960).

The movies plus the many joint stage appearances in Las Vegas and on tour made the Rat Pack a “must see” event.

Sammy was also now the headliner at the Frontier Casino in Las Vegas. Racial segregation was at its peak in the late 1950’s and into the 60’s. Sammy, despite being the headliner, could not sleep at the

SPCA of Puerto Vallarta

F

rom the Old Town Farmers Market this past week, we hear from our friend Lynnette: “What a difference a date makes!

It's Easter Saturday today and the Farmers Market has quietened down a lot since last month.

February saw us rushed and busy from 8:30am till 2:00pm and now?

Where has everyone gone? There's room to move, browse the stalls, listen to the music and yet we did stay occupied. We took very generous donations of around $2,000 pesos, though we made fewer than usual sales. A big thank you to ever-

By Janice Gonzalez

yone for dropping by and parting with your pesos. The Market will continue until the end of April.

We had an enquiry for a photo in our calendar for 2017, as we have spaces left for April & July. The fabulous front cover is available too! If you're interested in having YOUR furry family friends on show in the calendar, please contact us for details as soon as you can.

A couple of people volunteered to transport dogs to Toronto and California - and bring crates back - unfortunately we don't have adoptions there right now. All we ask is

hotel, but instead was shuttled to a rooming house with other colored performers on the west side of Vegas while white counterparts enjoyed all the amenities of the full hotel.

No dressing rooms were provided for black performers, and they had to wait outside by the swimming pool between acts.

Sammy and others could not gamble in the casinos, or eat and drink in the hotel restaurants and bars. Sammy later refused to work at places which still practiced racial segregation.

By 1964, Davis was again on Broadway, starring in Golden Boy at night and shooting his New York-based afternoon talk show during the day. Sammy would be recording new songs in the studio on his days off, or performing live at charity benefits as far away as

Miami, Chicago, and Las Vegas, or doing television variety specials in Los Angeles. Sammy later said he “always hated standing still.”

Sammy’s musical career hit a downturn in the late 1960’s and after a failed contract with Motown Records, he signed with MGM Records. He then found himself with a #1 hit “The Candy Man.” Sammy did not like the song, but made the most of it, to renew his career. Later, “The Candy Man” would become his signature song.

Always eager to fight barriers, Sammy took the opportunity to appear in a TV special “Movin with Nancy”, with Frank’s daughter, Nancy Sinatra. The two greeted each other onscreen with a kiss, the first times an interracial kiss was shown in U.S. television history.

Sammy liked TV work and was

that you keep offering, we never know when a successful adoption will occur in these and other areas.

This week saw the last day that volunteer Brian was with us for this season. He returns to Canada next week but will be back in November. Thanks for all your good work, Brian.

Thanks also to Doreen and Chris.” And thanks for your report Lynnette!

Come and spend a rewarding afternoon cuddling the animals at Puerto Vallarta’s SPCA Sanctuary.

Our dogs and cats are awaiting “forever homes” and your help is needed to jump start their socialization. The goal is to get these

animals adjusted and ready to interact in the real world. The majority of the SPCA animals either come from extremely abusive situations or they have been abandoned. Your love and attention can make up for that sad history. During 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

never shy. In the 70’s and 80’s Sammy appeared on countless TV shows and Telethons for charities.

But one guest appearance in 1972 was again pushing the racial envelope. While on an episode of “All in the Family”, he famously kisses the bigoted Archie Bunker on the cheek.

Racism reared its ugly head in Sammy’s personal life as well. In 1957, Sammy’s relationship with longtime girlfriend Kim Novak was ended through threats of bodily harm. Kim, who was a rising actress in her right for MGM Studios, worried the studio bosses that the interracial relationship would harm the studio.

It’s reported that a mobster was sent to threaten Sammy that his leg would be broken or worse if he did not break things off with Kim Novak and marry an African American woman in 48 hours. Sammy then hastily married dancer Loray White after paying her $10,000. It was a nine-month sham marriage before being annulled, as it was never consummated.

In 1960, Davis caused controversy again when he married white Swedish-born actress May Britt.

At the time, interracial marriages were still forbidden by law in 31 US states but were legal in New York. The pressure of society and Sammy’s affairs led to their divorce in 1968 after having had a daughter together and adopting two boys.

Sammy’s third try at marriage was in 1970, to Altovise Gore, a dancer in “Golden Boy”. They adopted another son and remained married until Sammy’s passing from throat cancer in 1990. Two days after his passing, the neon lights of the Las Vegas Strip were darkened for ten minutes as a tribute to him.

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

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.

art & culture

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March 31 - April 6, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Artisan Day in Mexico

E

ach year on March 19, Mexico celebrates Artisan Day (Día de Artesano), with just about every museum and cultural institution related to handcrafts and folk art having one event or another, often extending over a week or even longer.

The day is important here both because of artesanía‘s economic and cultural importance. According the National Fund for the Development of Arts and Crafts (FONART), there are over 10 million people in the country who work at one kind of handcraft or another, mostly in conjunction with other economic activities. The vast majority of these live in rural areas and are indigenous, not to mention that about 70% are women. However, 600,000 of these people live below Mexico’s poverty line.

The major handcraft producing areas are in the center and south of the country, especially the states of Oaxaca, Michoacán and Chiapas, with important activities in the State of Mexico, Puebla and Jalisco.

In English, there is a dividing line between “art” and “handcrafts,” albeit a blurry one. In some cases the distinction is clear when the piece has a function, such as a chair, no matter how artistically it is decorated. A number of others are far less so, such as the amate paper paintings done by the Nahuas in Guerrero. While they are paintings, the designs are derived from traditional decorations from pottery, and so generally classified as handcraft. However, decorative designs have been changing rapidly such that this link to handcraft is far less clear. For example, artisan Angelica Morales makes pottery much the way that others in Tzintzuntzan, Michoacán do, but the designs she paints on them are

Chiapas unique, and she has since begun to paint her images of female figures onto paper and canvas, undoubtedly moving into the realm of art.

In Spanish, the distinction is three-fold, arte (art), artesanía and manualidad. The distinction between artesanía and manualidad is as important as it is difficult to define. Both words would translate roughly to “handcrafts/folk art” in English, but the distinction has more to do with whether the handcrafted item has a link to a community and/or cultural tradition. For some, it is not artesanía, unless the items being made have a generational link, meaning that it has been taught in families for several generations at least. For others, it is sufficient if the artesanía requires a certain level of skill or creativity. The main idea is that “artesanía” has something more to it than just having been made by hand. An obvious example of a manualidad would be something put together from a kit bought at a store. Beyond that, and whole treatises have been written by experts to distingush between the two.

While just about all of Mexico’s artesanía traditions have their

origins in the making of items for local use, today almost all are now made for tourist and foreign markets. Indeed, Mexican handcrafts and folk art nearly disappeared by the mid 20th century, but two developments saved it from oblivion. The promotion of a “new,” “Mexican” identity after the Mexican Revolution by the country’s intellectual and artistic elite, and perhaps more importantly, the development of Mexico’s tourism industry. Artists like Diego Rivera and government officials have promoted handcrafts in-country, but their association with the poor and indigenous still stigmatizes the products among Mexicans who could afford to buy and collect them. Such stigmatization is not an issue among foreigners, who look to bring back something “authentically Mexican” from their visits, which has over the decades spawned a collectors’ market.

This market sees products of all kinds shipped abroad, especially to the United States, which has

Made in China a number of organizations dedicated to the promotion of Mexican handcrafts and folk art. While it has helped to preserve a number of traditions, it has ironically prompted many of them to change in order to produce products that meet the tastes of these new clients, and to adapt new techniques and materials to make more products, often more cheaply. The most commonly exported handcrafts are the lacquered boxes of Olinalá, Guerrero and the silver jewelry of Taxco, Mexico City and Zacatecas.

The most common items sold to tourists include Talavera pottery, Barro Negro pottery, silver jewelry

and Huichol beadwork.

One other caveat should be mentioned, especially to tourists.

Many of the “handcrafts” sold in places like Acapulco, especially for very cheap on the streets, is most likely not authentic. Two examples are Talavera pottery and Chiapas ambar jewelry. Basically, if you are getting it cheap, you are not getting it. If you are serious about collecting the real thing, it is always best to do your homework. Otherwise you are simply buying a souvenir, and there is a good chance it came from China.

Original: Creative Hands of Mexico

Christ Church by the Sea Worldwide Anglican Communion

Services Sunday 10:00 a.m.

Now! Services held each Sunday year around 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 Father Jack cell: 044-322-229-1129 E-Mail jackandshirley1@att.net

www.ChristChurchByTheSea.org www.IglesiaCristoDelMar.org Jalisco & Nayarit

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healthcare

March 31 - April 6, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Important information about Plastic Surgery

by Guillermo Ramos-Gallardo M.D.

S

ome useful information about facelift or facial rejuvenation especially aesthetic procedures for the lids. What are the goals of a Blepharoplasty? The operative goals of a blepharoplasty procedure are the restoration of the correct functioning to the affected eyelid(s), and the restoration of the aesthetics of the eye-region of the face, which are achieved by eliminating excess skin from the eyelid(s), smoothing the underlying eye muscles, tightening the supporting structures, and resecting and re-draping the excess fat of the retroseptal area of the eye, in order to produce a smooth anatomic transition from the lower eyelid to the cheek.

A facelift, technically known as a rhytidectomy (from Ancient Greek ῥυτίς (rhytis) “wrinkle” + ἐκτομή (ektome) “excision”, surgical removal of wrinkles), is a type

now open for dinner Enjoy Live Mariachi All Week except Saturdays

of cosmetic surgery procedure used to give a more youthful facial appearance. There are multiple surgical techniques. It usually involves the removal of excess facial skin, with or without the tightening of underlying tissues, and the redraping of the skin on the patient’s face and neck. Facelifts are effectively combined with eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) and other facial procedures.

Take in count that is important to verify if your plastic surgeon is certified by the Mexican Society

of Plastic Surgery. Any information we will be glad to answer in Vallarta Medical Center, #136 Los Tules Av. Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico, Office tel: 322 2936628.

Guillermo Ramos-Gallardo is a plastic surgeon trained in Birmingham, Alabama and he is active member of different medical societies.

Adorable Dog In The Spotlight... REBEL

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

by Janice Gonzalez

R

ebel is one gorgeous young Labrador-Shepherd mix who will definitely steal your heart! He has a loving personality and is very playful, just now 11 months old and around 40 pounds.

He will need a family who is active as he enjoys lots of exercise.

Rebel gets along well with other dogs so you won’t need to worry

when you take him around the neighborhood. He is a bit afraid of felines, however. He was rescued along with his mom Silky and his seven siblings and has been fully vaccinated and neutered. He is now ready to find a home with a loving family.

If you are ready to take this sweetheart home, contact us at spcapv@gmail.com for an application.

events

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March 31 - April 6, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Help local students with their education

P

lease join Becas Vallarta at their last Breakfast on April 13, at Coco’s Kitchen, 10:00 a.m., and help our young people continue their studies.

The price is a very reasonable $200 pesos per person.

Becas Vallarta, A.C., provides scholarships for over 300 students in middle school, high school and university.

Most of these students would

not be able to attend school if it were not for the scholarship they receive.

While Mexico’s schools are open to all students, students cannot attend without the proper supplies and uniforms, both for class and physical education.

For further information, please contact Suzanne Erikson at 221 5599, Terry Prill at 221 5465, or Mariel Fregoso at 221 0789.

UPCOMING EVENTS If you have an event you would like to publicize, please email

of Corazon de Niña

editor@vallartatribune.com.

April 3 IFC Closing Brunch Oscar’s 10:30 a.m. $300 pesos per person Raffle to support IFC charities See ifcvallarta.com special events for menu and details April 6th Corazon de Niña Fundraiser An evening of jewelry, clothing and cocktails Garlands del Rio Boutique Hotel 5-8pm – 359 Aquiles Serdan, Centro Vallarta Local artists invite you to join them in this trunkshow in support

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

An Amazing April In Riviera Nayarit

T

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. 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.

5th Capoeira and Batizado Festival (April 8-10) San Pancho welcomes some of the top exponents of this martial art as they present workshops, batizado ceremonies and everything relative to this culture.

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.

Puerto Vallarta Jewish Community´s Activities

By Donna Feldman

P

uerto Vallarta Jewish Community had a wonderful season with the attendance of many people from years past, as well as many new people.

There were many volunteers and enthusiastic involvement by the congregation.

After Shabbat services this

year, we had a group dinner for those who wanted to attend. We met at Pan y Que on Calle Peru behind the Hidalgo Park.

The food was excellent as well as the service. The prices were reasonable.

These dinners gave people the opportunity to meet new people as well as to catch up with old friends and acquaintances.

Because we had such enjoyable experiences there, a number of people told me that they returned

VALLARTA SHOPPING AND EVENTS www.puertovallartadining-shopping.com

Bathing Beauty I

f you have not had the chance to check out the “Bathing Beauties” at the Kathleen Carrillo Gallery yet, be sure to pop in this coming Friday night, February 19th, from 6-10 during the Southside Shuffle. You will find her women come in all shapes and sizes.

She shares that she has been doing series about women for her entire career and explains that it has been a lifelong journey to empower the feminine principle through her work. In the latest bathing beauties there is a wonderful sense of sisterhood, humor, love and joy.

Kathleen says, “No matter what age, shape, size, color or place we are coming from we are all “Divas”, but of course we must KNOW we are divas."

Kathleen shares that she has explored many different stages of her own personal development and obsessively expressed it on canvas.

The beauty, the strength, the intuitive woman, the woman’s ability to surrender with power. It all shows up in the colorful and expressive canvases she shares with her audience.

Along with the Bathing Beauty Collection there will be some of her Jungle Magic Collection and Architectural Whimsy Collection.

Make sure you stop by and share a glass of wine and enjoy this gallery. It is not to be missed.

Located at Calle Constitucion 325, just off of Basilio Badillo, next door to the Bandaras Bay Trading Company. www.KathleenCarrilloGalleries.com, U.S. 858 261 8129 Mex. 322 222 6719

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

games

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

Riviera Farmers Market – Nuevo Vallarta from 9am-2pm WEDNESDAY Forever Spring Farmers Market - 50 Lazaro Cardenas, opposite Sandrinas, Bucerias 9am-1pm Three Hens and a Rooster Market on Carranza 466, Old Town, Puerto Vallarta 9am to 1pm Artwalk – In the historic center of 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 - 9:30am2pm 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

ACROSS

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March 31 - April 6, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com