Issue 998, May 19 - 25, 2016

Catch us online @ vallartatribune.com

Real Estate

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ampi update

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May 19 - 25, 2016 Year 19 Free Issue 998

Exploring SOUTH SHORE

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Art & Culture you are here

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COLOMITAS BEACH

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

May 19 - 25, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Calling in Mexico Calling phones in Mexico can be tricky as it is different than in the US or Canada. There are different codes you need to use depending if you are calling landlines or cellular phones and if they are local or long distance.

Long-distance calls from within Mexico For national long-distance calls (within Mexico) the code is 01 plus the area code and phone number. For international long-distance calls, first dial 00, then the country code (for the U.S. and Canada the country code is 1, so you would dial 00 + 1 + area code + 7 digit number).

Calling Cell Phones (from a land line) If you are calling from a landline within the area code of the Mexican cell phone number dial 044, then the 10 digit number including area code. Outside of the area code (but still within Mexico) dial 045 and then the 10 digit phone number. Cell phone to cell phone only requires the 10 digit number.

Phone Cards Phone cards (“tarjetas telefonicas”) for use in pay phones can be bought at newstands and in pharmacies in denominations of 30, 50 and 100 pesos. Pay phones do not accept coins. When buying a phone card for pay phone use, specify that you would like a “tarjeta LADA,” because pre-paid cell phone cards are also sold in the same establishments.

Calling Toll-Free Numbers Some toll free numbers work from Mexico to the US and Canada, but many do not.

You need to dial a different prefix. To call the following toll free prefixes, dial as follows: 800 numbers Dial 001-880-then the number 866 numbers Dial 001-883-then the number 877 numbers Dial 001-882-then the number 888 numbers Dial 001-881-then the number

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

Ambulance: 322.222.1533

Consulates American Consulate Immigration: Nuevo Vallarta: 322.224.7719 322.222.0069 24 hrs Guadalajara: Consumer Protection: 333.268.2145 01.800.468.8722 Tourism Offices Canadian Consulate Jalisco: 322.221.2676 322.293.2894 Nayarit: 322.297.1006 24 hrs: 1.800.706.2900

Ahoy Cruisers!

In port this month

Day Ship Passengers 18-may Carnival Miracle 2,124 25-may Carnival Miracle 2,124 31-may Carnival Miracle 2,124

In the month of May Puerto Vallarta welcomes 23, 120 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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May 19 - 25, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Editor’s

Note

editor@vallartatribune.com

I

t’s hot and humid. Apparently someone flipped the summer switch a little early this year and with no warning I might add.

One night I slept like a baby, the next I woke up from a nightmare, dreaming that I had driven my car off a bridge into a river (of sweat, I would assume). Of course, this humidity happened just in time for my new, looks better blow-dried straight, hairdo. Will I never learn?

If you have curly, fine hair, and you live here during the summer, then you know my pain and frustration.

I look like a mad poodle.

Speaking of mad poodles, my most recent rescue dog, which is more pit bull than poodle has received a lot of love after my story of Canela in last week's Tribune.

I had some generous cash donations, a couple of inquiries about adoption and local dog trainer Michael Hord came by to give me some tips on how I can begin to smooth out her rough edges.

Canela, in case you missed her debut last week, is a pit-mix I found hobbling on cobblestone streets with a broken leg and a severely damaged eye. She came home with me; I took her to the vet where it was determined that amputation is the only option.

She is about done her first round of antibiotics and then will have the surgery. Canela was likely abandoned by her original family because of her medical bills, and I would surmise it wasn’t a very nice family because she has some major issues with men and is fiercely protective of me and my house now.

I will spend the next few months using the techniques and tips Michael imparted and hopefully in the fall she will be ready to join a new family. If you are interested in fostering or adopting, please let me know. She is a special dog and needs to be placed in the best home for her.

This week we continue with Restaurant week – 41 of the best local restaurants offer set menus at discounted prices. It’s a great time to try out many different places from Vallarta to Bucerias.

It’s also the first full week of Vallarta Pride, and there are many fabulous things planned including a Music Festival on Friday, on the Los Muertos Pier street from 6:30 to 10:30. A sunset marriage ceremony on Tuesday that is open to

Spanish Bloopers

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his column is for all of us who are still struggling with the Spanish language…and for those who just want to enjoy a good laugh!

Although I have lived here eight years, I still make many mistakes with words that sound the same but are entirely different or with the same word that has double or triple meanings, some resulting in

all LGBT couples and will be the first year where the ceremony is legally binding in Jalisco. And finally, on Thursday we have the Drag Derby, which is hysterical fun and the funds raised go to good causes. You can find all the details on page 19 this week.

I’d like to point out on our centre map page we have a great discount coupon for Sapphire Ocean Club – 50% discount off of their day pass which includes towel service and water. Nothing quite as extravagant as laying poolside, on the beach except maybe if you add a little Dom to the mix.

Finally, took a seven-hour drive to Mazatlan last weekend where we had a family get together.

Mazatlan seems very stretched out, which, with the world’s longest malecon/boardwalk makes sense.

I did get a chance to wander freely around the historic centro area, and it was so charming. I popped into a dozen little galleries around town, wandered through charming plazas and took dozens of photos of the brightly painted Victoria houses that make up this area. The

drive along the cuota is not much to look at. Once you pass Tepic, it's pretty much flat shrublands broken up by toll booths. On the way back we took the libre which was almost as dull of a landscape, but at least you pass through towns. Then once we hit Tepic, we headed toward the ocean and took the highway through Los Cocos to Las Varas, which is probably one of the most beautiful stretches of road anywhere. The vistas of the mountain valleys filled with mango trees, the tiny fishing villages, the estuaries. It’s a tropical paradise.

In this week's Tribune on page 8 we have a reprint of an article Cajon de Peñas, the large dam just outside of the city of Tomatlan.

Located about two hours south of Vallarta it offers an escape from your cell phone (no service, no wifi), some of the countries best big mouth Bass fishing, a beautiful tranquil lake, and much cooler

temperatures. I highly recommend taking a few days and escaping to the lake. If not this one then consider a weekend at the luxurious Sierra Lago which I have heard is nature and luxury combined into a weekend perfect for rekindling romance and releasing some of our big city (haha) stresses.

Or head to Old Town and get down with Vallarta Pride festivities. Whatever you do, please take a moment to pick up the litter in your streets that will soon flow through flooded river banks into our ocean (the rains are coming it is inevitable), say no to dolphins in captivity and support our local tiendas, restaurants, shops and markets in the slower summer months. Walmart doesn’t need your money, but they do.

CANGREJO (CRAB)

CONEJO (RABBIT)

Enjoy your week. Safe travels, Madeline

by Sandra Cesca

various degrees of embarrassment.

Today’s story: CONEJO (RABBIT) CANGREJO (CRAB) I was at one of my favorite family lunch places on the Rio Cuale when I asked the waiter if he had “conejo.” He was puzzled.

I pointed to the menu where it said “tacos of crab.” The man sitting next to me laughed and said, “You just

asked for rabbit tacos!

Rare to see a rabbit here and for sure not on a taco.” After much debate between all three of us, the waiter said, “Oh we don’t have either one.

Out of season!”

Send me your bloopers and a little story to go with them: sandra. learn.vallarta@gmail.com

news

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May 19 - 25, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

One-on-one with tourism board director

By Meagan Drillinger

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ast week, Mexico hosted its annual travel trade megashow, Tianguis Turistico, in Guadalajara. Among those in attendance was Rodrigo Esponda, the Mexico Tourism Board’s regional director for North America, who took some time to speak with me one-on-one about what he sees on the horizon for Mexico tourism.

Rising destinations: Mexico’s cities and beach resorts are constantly expanding and changing, reinventing themselves to stay relevant for new and repeat guests. But in terms of new destinations, Esponda shed some light on the ones to watch. “Merida has been remarkable in the last few years,” says Esponda. “You walk the streets of Merida and are constantly seeing new galleries, restaurants, and boutique hotels. The cuisine is very special because it is close to Cancun. The standard of living is very high, as well, and the cost of living is low.”

He pointed out that the destination is also much easier to get to these days.

“It has new additional connectivity nonstop from the U.S., and that’s due to a combination of things. The connectivity is increasing because of a rising demand,” Esponda said.

When it comes to beach destinations, there are two Esponda has his eye on.

“The first is Costalegre, south of Puerto Vallarta. This is a fantastic

place to go. It is about an hour south of the Puerto Vallarta airport, but it’s the scenery of beaches and the few little hotels that real deserve attention,” he said. “Huatulco is another beach destination to watch. It has around 3,000 rooms, and there are interesting projects in place to expand it. The bays of Huatulco are perfectly preserved.”

Air travel: Last week, the Mexico Senate approved the aviation agreement that Mexico and U.S. agreed to in December. Under the deal there will be no limits on the number of carriers that can serve any U.S.-Mexico city pair.

“This means there will be much more flexibility to fly in and out of Mexico,” says Esponda. “Traditionally in airports like LAX and JFK, only two Mexican carriers and two American carriers could fly the same route. Now with this

agreement that opens. There are no restraints. This is a big opportunity. The connectivity between Mexico and the U.S. has been growing and all airlines have been opening new opportunities.

JetBlue and Southwest continue to expand, and the original carriers like American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United are all continuously incorporating new flights into Mexico. Vice versa, Mexican carriers are flying into the U.S., like Interjet, Aeromexico, Viva Aerobus and Volaris. This agreement will only continue the trend that has been growing.”

Safety in Acapulco: As this year’s Tianguis closed, it was announced that Tianguis Turistico 2017 would return to Acapulco, the original home of the event.

But with a new travel warning in effect that once again calls out

Guerrero, state where Acapulco is located, U.S. travelers continue to worry about the security of the destination.

The Mexico Tourism Board was quick to point out that none of the recent violence in the city has involved tourists.

“Acapulco is a town that is in transition,” said Esponda. “There are definitely challenges, just as there are in every country. There is a very serious effort to improve the product experience and the way visitors are seeing Mexico. In the case of Acapulco, when you’re trying to improve things it’s not an easy way up. It has to be a complex process. Acapulco is a large town that has a very big tourism industry that is about more than hotels; there are villas, condos and golf courses. It is one of the biggest tourism spots for Mexicans who

live in Mexico City. Every weekend there are thousands of Mexicans that travel to Acapulco for vacation, even though it has its challenges. It is improving, and it has been doing a big effort to combat and improve the situation.”

Many of these safety and security efforts have been in place for years, like the training programs for state police officers. But the destination has also created the Tourist Information and Assistance Center, Capta, to provide resources and assistance exclusively to tourists.

Zika: The Mexico Tourism Board has responded quickly when it comes to informing the traveling public about Zika, even producing a map that pinpoints where cases of the disease have been reported. The board wants visitors to know that the country’s most popular resort areas have not been affected. “Zika is not particular to any destination. Where it has existed in Mexico has been very localized, and there have been very few cases,” said Esponda.

“Throughout the years Mexico has had effective campaigns to eradicate other mosquito-borne diseases. The campaign has been done in the tropical areas, mostly the south and the rural areas, and these campaigns have been very effective.

“The places where Zika has taken place have been specific and rural with difficult access. It has not been an element that is present in the resorts.”

Original:www.travelweekly.com

Consumer Prices Fall Volaris to Start Monterrey-Dallas 0.32% in Mexico in April Service in July

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exico’s consumer price index fell 0.32 percent in April, compared to the previous month, bringing the inflation rate over the past 12 months to 2.54 percent, the National Institute of Statistics and Geography, or INEGI, said on Monday.

The core rate of inflation, which excludes volatile food and energy prices, rose 0.22 percent last month, with the core inflation rate over the past 12 months at 2.83 percent, the INEGI said in a statement.

Prices in the non-food merchandise category rose 0.45 percent, compared to March, while the fruits and vegetables

category fell 4.64 percent, and energy prices dropped 2.94 percent.

The basic basket of essential goods, which includes about 100 widely used products, fell 0.78 percent in April and is up 0.73 percent over the past year.

The producer price index, excluding oil, rose 0.27 percent in April, compared to March, with the annualized rate now at 4.13 percent, the INEGI said.

In 2015, consumer prices rose 2.13 percent in Mexico, the lowest level in the past three years.

Consumer prices were up 4.08 percent in 2014, 3.97 percent in 2013 and 3.57 percent in 2012.

M

exico’s Volaris airlines said it planned to start offering service on July 8 on a route linking the northern industrial city of Monterrey and Dallas-Fort Worth in Texas.

The goal is to continue linking cities both within Mexico and abroad, mainly in the United States, as part of an expansion plan, Volaris said in a statement.

“March was an active month for connectivity in Monterrey (the capital of Nuevo Leon state).

During just the first few days of that month, we inaugurated two domestic and one international route, making it Volaris’s first international route out of its Monterrey

hub,” Volaris chief commercial officer Holger Blankenstein said.

The new route provides greater travel options to Monterrey residents, who can now enjoy more attractive fares when visiting the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area, a

leading U.S. business center, the airline said.

Volaris currently offers 18 routes from Monterrey and will launch its first international route from the industrial city to Chicago on June 17.

news

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May 19 - 25, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

AMPI Updates - May 2016

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eal estate buyer confidence makes a big leap forward in Mexico and professionalism takes center stage for many realtors during 2016. This means buyers will be able to become new property owners without hassles or hesitation.

AMPI, the Mexican Association of Real Estate Professionals, continues to push for real estate license requirements. The board wants to be sure that everyone selling real estate meet their business standards. Mexico has had almost no regulations on who can act as a real estate agent. Now AMPI is taking their profession to the next level because foreign buyers expect it.

"The Real Estate industry in Puerto Vallarta has become much more professional and sophisticated in the last 20 years, I give a lot of the credit to AMPI," says Michael Green, co-Broker of Boardwalk Realty. "I appreciate the Honors and Justice Committee for disputes and the continuing education programs that AMPI

membership requires."

Although the government has been slow to respond with real estate licensing requirements, AMPI has taken a leading role by offering courses and certificates, and even collaborating with government agencies to offer a professional university degree in Mexico real estate. The AMPI board has been pushing for real estate license requirements in all

states and may be well on the way to getting at least half the Mexican states to comply during 2016.

Mexico has long been overlooked as a retirement haven, but with proper promotion and integrity many will find that they can retire in luxury without spending a fortune.

Over the past decade the number of buyers new to Mexican real estate and Mexico as a retirement destination, has been increasing

drastically. There are about one million retirees from the US living in Mexico full or part time.

For real estate buyers, this points to a greater degree of confidence in the Mexico real estate system.

By providing international standards of professionalism and service, it means that it will be easier for buyers to find the leading professionals to represent them.

Buyers from the USA, Canada and Europe should look forward to making plans to retire, buy a vacation or a rental property in Mexico safely.

Real Estate Specialist Laura Gelezunas brings over 20 years of marketing and sales experience along with intimate knowledge of the Puerto Vallarta area and the people. She is familiar with the neighborhoods, restaurants, shopping, entertainment, banking, and immigration and how to make the adjustment when moving to Puerto Vallarta, whether full or part time.

Have you ever dreamed about going on vacation and never returning home?

Laura did just that in late 2002 and has lived in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico full time, ever since.

"Buy a Condo, Get a Lifestyle" that is the tag line for Boardwalk Realty and that fits Laura perfectly. She can assist you with doing both seamlessly.

Contact Laura at laura@boardwalkrealtypv.com or cell: 011 521 322 117-2607

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May 19 - 25, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

100% solar vehicle exceeds 100 km/h

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alisco students build three as part of school project. Secondary and preparatory school students from Zapopan, Jalisco, have designed and built three highly-efficient solar-powered vehicles. But they’re not done yet: an airplane may be next.

The 11 students at the private school SuBiré were part of a school-wide project to research how solar power can be transformed into motive power.

The project’s guidelines established that the vehicle must reach a speed of 40 kilometers per hour and travel for more than two hours.

The resulting prototypes surpassed everyone’s expectations, said the school principal.

“The vehicles have exceeded speeds of 100 kilometers per hour, have a range of more than four hours and they’re being powered 100% by solar energy . . . These vehicles cost less than 50,000 pesos and the students are ready to patent their designs. They’ve also been given the chance to have official license plates on them, enabling the vehicles to travel freely,” said Julio César Saucedo de la Llata.

“The best laboratory, for me, are my students. We approached several technological disciplines like robotics and 3D-printing. [The students] had to learn to use tools

M and machinery to build several car parts, including a chassis. They also learned about photovoltaics, the inner workings of a motor and that there are several kinds,” said the students’ science and robotics professor.

The youths also had to research how many effective sunlight hours they had available in Zapopan — which turned out to be six per day — and how to collect radiation at night, added Luis Armando Martínez.

The students’ research and development project takes on greater importance when one considers that Guadalajara — Zapopan lies within its metropolitan area — is the most motorized

Jalisco beach is now disabled-inclusive

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oth village and beach at Cuastecomates have new facilities for people with disabilities A coastal village in Jalisco is being hailed as the first in Mexico to be disabled-inclusive while its beach has the distinction of being the second.

Cuastecomates, located in Costalegre, aims to go even farther: authorities want to see the beach get the international Blue Flag destination for clean beaches and have the bay declared a protected area.

The Jalisco government has invested 47 million pesos, or US $2.5 million, in the first stage of a project to boost tourism as well as create a more inclusive beach destination. The money has also paid for the installation of a new wastewater treatment system, new street lighting and drainage and a

Mexico’s New Ambassador to U.S. Takes over Duties

medical center.

New signage including signs in Braille, a wooden boardwalk, handicapped access, wheelchairs for the beach, amphibious forearm crutches for adults and children, specially designed vessels for snorkeling and other amenities were part of the project.

Cuastecomates becomes Mexico’s second wheelchair-accessible beach, according to reports. The first was Playa del Carmen.

Jalisco Governor Aristóteles Sandoval officiated at an inauguration ceremony in Cuastecomates yesterday. He said the project contributes to encouraging a culture of respect for a sector of the population that “urgently requires attention.”

The beach is located in the municipality of Cihuatlán, near Barra de Navidad and Melaque.

Original: mexiconewsdaily.com

city in Latin America, and that in the near future it could face pollution issues worse than those experienced in Mexico City.

While a gasoline-powered car harnesses only 60% of its fuel, a solar powered vehicle harnesses 95% of the energy it receives.

The most important lesson for the students was to have confidence in themselves: “At the beginning we were skeptical . . . but we learned a great deal about techniques, mechanics, physics and chemistry. A lot of teamwork and cooperation was needed,” said Gabriel Montijo, 17, who after the experience has decided to become a biomedical engineer.

“It took six months to build the

car. Four months were dedicated to design, all the technicalities and calculations”, said Eduardo Méndez, 17, who plans to pursue a career in computational systems once he completes preparatory school.

“The students’ creation could transform the automotive industry,” said the school principal. And that’s not all: “They’re also planning to design a solar-powered passenger plane.”

“Education in Mexico must shift from being a purely theoretical discipline to a more pragmatic one, enabling youths to start their own enterprises,” said Saucedo de la Llata.

Original:mexiconewsdaily.com

Hurricane numbers should be average

B

ut the Atlantic should see more activity than it has in the last three years Forecasters are predicting a busier Atlantic hurricane season this year but the total number of storms is expected to be about average.

An average number is also expected in the eastern Pacific but the total should be somewhat fewer than last year.

Thirteen named storms are predicted for the Atlantic: seven tropical storms, four strong hurricanes (category 1 or 2) and two major hurricanes (categories 3, 4 or 5), according to Conagua, the National Water Commission.

The last three years have seen below-average numbers in the Atlantic but that will change if the meteorological

phenomenon known as El Niño continues to weaken and its opposite, La Niña, turns up instead.

Average numbers are 12 named storms and nine hurricanes, three of them major, during the Atlantic’s hurricane season, which begins June 1.

The season begins Sunday in the eastern Pacific where the forecast is for 17 named storms, nine strong hurricanes and four major ones. The 30-year average is 15 named storms and 12 hurricanes, four of them major.

There was a record-breaking total of nine major hurricanes in the eastern Pacific last year. Among them was Patricia, the strongest on record.

Original: mexiconewsdaily.com

exico’s new envoy to the United States, Carlos Sada Solana, on Thursday took charge of the embassy in Washington saying he was determined “to defend the interests of Mexico and Mexicans” at a time when magnate Donald Trump seems headed to be the Republican nominee for the White House.

Sada, appointed as Mexico’s new ambassador in Washington by President Enrique Peña Nieto in April, began his tenure by meeting with the diplomatic personnel posted to the embassy, located quite near the White House. “(When I was appointed) I had the opportunity to have a very personal meeting with President Enrique Peña Nieto where he was very clear and very precise: defend the interests of Mexico and Mexicans,” Sada told the diplomats, according to a statement released by the embassy.

“Let us make no mistake.

We have to do that daily and systematically,” he added.

The arrival in Washington of Sada, an experienced diplomat who most recently was the consul general in Los Angeles, comes amid an intensification of contacts between the Republican Party and Trump, who is moving decisively toward becoming the GOP presidential nominee for the November elections.

The appointment of Sada, who replaces Miguel Basañez, is part of a renewed diplomatic effort by Peña Nieto’s administration to deal with the negative image being created of Mexico in the United States, mainly due to Trump’s statements against Mexican immigrants.

Upon his arrival at the embassy, Sada also set forth two other priorities – pushing the bilateral economic agenda in the areas of trade and investment and guaranteeing the protection of Mexicans living in the United States – the embassy said in its communiqué.

Laht.com

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Cruise Passenger Arrivals Rise 2.1% in Mexico in Q1

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total of 750 cruise ships called on Mexico’s principal tourist ports in the first quarter of this year, up 2.1 percent from the same period in 2015, the Tourism Secretariat said.

“Cozumel and Majahual, in Quintana Roo; Cabo San Lucas, in Baja California Sur; Ensenada, in Baja California; and Puerto Vallarta, in Jalisco, are the ports that welcomed the most tourists in the first quarter of the year,” the secretariat said in a statement.

“In this period, 1,940,296 cruise

passengers arrived in Mexican ports,” the Communications and Transportation Secretariat said.

Tourists spent an average of $75 per person in Mexico’s ports, with spending rising to an average of $120 in Cozumel, the Tourism Secretariat said.

Spending in Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta averaged $95 per person, the secretariat said.

A total of 2,175 ships and 5.92 million foreign tourists are expected to visit Mexico’s ports by the end of 2016, the Tourism Secretariat said.

May 19 - 25, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Gross Fixed Investment Grows 5.2% in Mexico

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ross fixed investment in capital equipment and construction rose 5.2 percent in February, compared to the same month in 2015, the Mexican National Statistics Institute, or INEGI, said on Wednesday.

Construction spending increased 2.5 percent, while spending on both domestic and foreign machinery and equipment soared

9.7 percent in February, the statistics agency said in a statement.

Gross fixed investment fell 0.10 percent on a seasonally adjusted basis in February, compared to January, with investment in machinery and equipment falling 2 percent and construction spending dropping 1.8 percent, the INEGI said.

Mexico’s gross domestic

product (GDP) grew 2.5 percent in 2015, up slightly from 2014, when the economy expanded by 2.1 percent and from the 1.4 percent growth registered in 2013.

The government is projecting that the economy will grow between 2.6 percent and 3.6 percent in 2016, while the Bank of Mexico expects the GDP to expand between 2 percent and 3 percent.

Puerto Vallarta in Las Juntas y Los Veranos.

The Don Chendo products are 100% Agave and produced similar to Tequila, but they are only allowed to call their product "Destilado de Agave". This very popular spirit offers tours to showcase production.

“This is some of the smoothest tequila I've ever tasted. We stopped by the distillery and took the tour, which involved a lesson on how to judge tequila, and a taste of about five different kinds. It is well worth the trip.” Review posted on Tequila. net

nerves. Zip lines in Puerto Vallarta are safe. It’s important to use reputable companies with excellent safety records. Los Veranos Canopy Tour is the original zipline company in Puerto Vallarta, and well-known tour operator Vallarta Adventures also holds a high safety record.

Los Veranos offers adventurers more than two miles of cable in a series of 14 zip lines, many over 1100 feet long and over 100 meters high. Their hiking trail, Animal House, Tequila Bar and Pancho’s Last Resort Restaurant, plus our gorgeous river with swimming beach, natural water slides and swimming hole are great for people of all ages to enjoy.

“I’m doing it again” The ratings speak for themselves, so you know it has to be good. Excellent staff, very attentive, funny and ensure that you have a tour you will remember. - Ben G, TripAdvisor May 2016.

Vallarta’s South Shore

By Madeline Milne

W

hile so much of the activity is focused on Puerto Vallarta proper, there are some truly tropical experiences to be had south of the city.

The mountains come down to meet the ocean and with this we have a number of excellent rivers, valleys, beaches and towns to explore. In the coming weeks we will feature a number of the activities and destinations you can enjoy on Vallarta’s South Shore this summer.

The Puerto Vallarta South Shore begins where Conchas Chinas ends, and from there runs along the coast passing the residential developments of Garza Blanca and Sierra del Mar, through the town of Mismaloya to Boca de Tomatlan, where the highway turns east and heads up into the Sierra Madre mountains towards the town of El Tuito.

Although the highway ends, the border of the South Shore continues along the coastline, but without road access it can be interesting to access. There are many towns and secluded beaches that are boat

access only. You can grab a water taxi from the pier off Los Muertos beach or there are a number of tour companies that will bring you where you want to go!

South Shores Beaches

• Playa Mismaloya - at the mouth of the Mismaloya River. The beach was featured in several scenes from Night of the Iguana and the main set was located on hillside to the South of the beach. The beach is developed with a number of restaurants.

• Playa Las Animas –An excellent beach to hike to from Boca de Tomatlan this narrow white sand beach is developed with several restaurants. A panga from Boca costs about $40 pesos • Playa Las Caletas - Once the private beach of film director John Huston, today it is a wildlife preserve.

There is a living natural reef close to the shore which attracts snorkelers.

• Playa Quimixto - a somewhat rocky and secluded beach which is settled by a small village of about a hundred families. Hire a horse and guide in the town for a tour through the small river valley to a series of waterfalls. Particularly impressive in

rainy season.

• Yelapa - once a small fishing village and a popular "hideaway" for gringos, electricity, telephones and the internet have arrived. There are a couple of excellent hotels, great restaurants and waterfalls to hike to. Need to recover from a little too much sun? Take the day and try an ‘off the beach’ activity.

TEQUILA TOUR

When in Jalisco…. Tequila and mariachi are musts. Tequila, like Champagne must meet certain criteria to be called Tequila, but that doesn’t mean that other products are not equal or superior in flavour.

What is important to remember is that 100% agave is the key to quality.

Learning a bit more about the production of this national treasure and how to truly taste a ‘tequila’ is a wonderful way to learn more about the culture of this country you are visiting.

One of the best reviewed distilleries around Puerto Vallarta is the Rancho Verano and their Don Chendo products. Rancho Verano is a small distillery just outside of

CANOPY TOURS

The south shore of Vallarta is popular for Canopy tours and they are a great way to get into the jungle and see something a little different.

They are not for the faint of heart but if you are feeling a little nervous, maybe a shot of the Don Chendo you just picked up will sooth your

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May 19 - 25, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Presa Cajon de Peñas – Road tripping south to Tomatlan

By Madeline Milne

T

wo hours south of Puerto Vallarta is the municipality of Tomatlan which is the largest in Jalisco. Here you will find the exclusive Costa Alegre coastline with its selection of some of the best hotels, resorts and estates in Mexico including my all-time favourite resort, Hotelito Descondido.

I was invited to tour the area by the local tourism office. They want to attract more foreigners to come visit. Much of the area has rugged coastline with limited access, or across the highway, huge orchards of banana and mango intersected with canals and rivers. It’s idyllic to be sure. Once I heard about the dam my interest was piqued. About 40 years ago a 75 km stretch of valley was flooded and a new landscape was created. Just past the town of Cajon de Peñas you can drive over the floodgates (?) of the dam. Interestingly, there was no one guarding it but there were streetlights every few meters along the road.

This weekend we hopped in our little white car, a rental from National at an affordable $60usd/ day including 100% no questions asked coverage, which if you’re driving the back roads of Mexico, is always a good idea. Especially since just past El Tuito the highway is under repair and parts of it were tricky to maneuver. If you go anytime soon, drive with caution, there are a couple bumps that will blow your tires.

At the 130km marker there is a left turn heading to la presa (the dam) and the small pueblito of Cajon de Peñas. If you come upon an Oxxo/Pemex or the sign to turn for the town of Tomatlan you’ve gone about 5kms too far.

Following the road 18km straight back into the mountains you will find well marked signs for the dam and a slight right hand turn just past the Rancho Andrea Bass Fishing Eco-Resort will open up the lake in front of you.

It is surreal in its stillness. Dotted with tiny islands, it looks almost like an Japanese water colour. A few minutes later you’ll being in the bustling metropolis of Cajon de Peñas, a ranchito of about fifty homes. The local school has a total of nineteen children.

Located on the banks of the lake, there are a few restaurants serving the fresh catch of the day,

generally Tilapia, Langostino and shrimp. There are two grocery stores and a couple places with cabins for rent.

We stayed at Rincon de Cieba in the centre of town and well marked. The gardens are very well maintained; the eight cabins are well appointed, clean and comfortable. The service was friendly and accommodating. There is a small delicious restaurant on site offering simple Mexican food and beverages. The highlight is the spectacular Cieba tree watching over the banks of the lake.

Cieba trees were revered by the ancient Mayans and used for

medicinal and spiritual purposes.

Covered in thick imposing thorns, their limbs stretch into the sky and connect the thirteen levels of earth.

To be forewarned, there is no cell or internet service – and you’ll be glad for the break.

What was extra special about this little town were the people who make it their home. Everyone was friendly and welcoming, coming out of their homes to say hello and chat about their lives along the lake. We were invited in for drinks and to stop by again the next day for a Mother’s Day get-together.

Truly one of the most humble and welcoming places I have been in

this country.

The lake is spectacular. The landscapes are striking; there is ample Big Mouth Bass and Tilapia fishing to be had and apparently deer and raccoon hunting in the forests. Over 150 species of birds call this area home and (for my butterfly hunting mother) despite the dry conditions, plenty of butterflies still fluttering by.

We rented a small panga for a couple hours to tour (a small portion of) the lake, stopping at a few of the islands. Our guide, Adan, is a 17 year old who had excellent local knowledge of plants and wildlife. He took us up into the forest to find a gum tree ,which when nicked with his knife oozed a white milk that quickly formed into a gum that has a slightly floral flavor that locals chew and make crafts out of. If you’ve ever been to Talpa de Allende, you’ll

recognize the little trinkets they product with this gum. There were eagles, ducks and vultures, and we also spotted a small brown fox dashing along the beach.

If you are adventurous; a couple kayaks, fishing pole and a hammock would make a great overnight camping trip on one of the nearby islands. A couple islands even have palapas and small outdoor kitchens built on them. Stop at El Tuito for supplies or drive a little further along the highway to Tomatlan for a much bigger supply of goods including a camping store.

If relaxation and a guaranteed dinner are more your speed Rincon de Cieba is highly recommended.

With the upcoming summer heat and humidity, this would be an excellent escape for a couple days or even longer.

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May 19 - 25, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Comings and Goings

From Here

By Marcia Blondin

Comings…

Every Thursday night The Jazz Foundation presents the Oliblues Band with front man Oliver Moreira Katny (from Santiago, Chile); lead vocalist and blues-harp-man extraordinaire. A week ago I asked Oli if he knew Room to Move written in the 70’s and performed

by John Mayall. He researched; he and the band learned the song and played it in public for the first time last week with a dedication to me.

It was heavenly! The band made Room to Move theirs but kept the exciting leitmotif going. My heart is still banging! Oh, and they also added some Pink Floyd – Breathe – and did an outstanding job.

The Jazz Foundation has become my Thursday night go-toplace on the Malecon. Join me – 9:30, 10-ish!

This Friday is the Festival of Music on Los Muertos Pier Street.

There will be live music, DJ’s, street food, tequila and beer, dancing, smiling and laughing. What have I missed? Go: 7 to 10 pm.

… and Goings

The Concert at Casa Karma featuring Grant Maloy Smith and Los Carajos sold out. CK Productions’ fourth concert of 2016 was presented to a hundred happy patrons sitting in the labyrinth ocean-side at Casa Karma enjoying the night air, the quarter-moonlight dancing off the waves and eating Celebrations Vallarta’s delish canapés.

Everyone I spoke to enjoyed

Marcia Blondin

marciavallarta@gmail.com

C

Grant’s clear tenor voice and his Taylor guitar sounded as rich as a couple of twelve strings.

A shout-out to Steve York who put the music and musicians together and made them sound as if they had rehearsed for months when in reality, the ensemble got together for a sound check/tech rehearsal merely hours before show-time. Many thanks to Grant Maloy Smith and CK Produc-

tions for another superb show.

The Roxy Rock House held a Tribute to Pink Floyd recently that I had been looking forward to for weeks. The band was super as was the service but the concert started very late - waiting for reserved tables to arrive - and the packed room was scattered with people freely smoking cigarettes…not by the window but inside the bar in front of the stage. Not cool.

Nayarit Swept SUP National Team Competition • The surfers and paddlers either from Nayarit or living there took nearly all the spots on the national team and will be present at the next world championships to be held in Fiji in 2016.

The members of the Nayarit State Surfing Association (ASENAY, by its acronym in Spanish) won all of the heats in the 2016 Stand Up Paddle (SUP) & Paddleboard National Team Competition that took place in Sayulita, the Surfing Capital of the Riviera Nayarit.

During the tournament several well-known names who had participated in previous world cups upheld their status, including

Fernando Stalla, who pioneered this sport in Mexico; Javier “Bicho” Jiménez, a silver medal winner in last year’s world cup; Felipe “Bodoque” Hernández, 2015 bronze medalist; and Felipe “Pipe” Rodríguez, national SUP surfing champion.

Erika Benítez, Martha Díaz and Alejandra Brito were the standouts in the women’s league.

“It was a pleasure to welcome competitors from far away places such as Quintana Roo and Sinaloa, among others,” said José Luis Caselin, a member of the SUP & Paddleboard Committee for the Mexican Surfing Federation. “We’re

very grateful to those who spread the word that the Nayarit continues to be the SUP Mecca.”

Ana Mariscal, from Sinaloa, snagged a spot for Fiji, thus nixing the possibility of the Nayarit-only team.

The national team consists of: Fernando Stalla, Javier Jiménez, Felipe Hernández, Felipe Rodríguez, Julio González, Miguel Rodríguez, Juan Varela, Keven Camara, José Rodríguez, Oliver Cruz, Geovani Cervantes, Karen Jacobson, Aida Ponce, Martha Díaz, Ana Mariscal, Erika Benítez, Alejandra Brito, Angélica Estrada and Italivi Fuente.

oco Tropical has been one of my favourite restaurants in Vallarta since it opened more than 20 years ago. Still owned – and more importantly – still operated by Heinz Reize and Andres Famania. Last week I had the pleasure of having lunch at Coco T. with Suzanne Goldstein who moved to Vallarta even before me! We had not seen each other for far too many years and lost touch completely until a chance Facebook posting recently reconnected us. Visiting from San Miguel de Allende which is now home to her, Suzanne and I spent hours talking, trying to put a year’s date on events past. She remembered some things; I remembered others; we laughed and we cried and shut up long enough to eat always-superb cuisine and the day flew away.

Suzanne is now one more reason for me to get to San Miguel de Allende to cool off this summer…

It’s getting hot Vallarta! Summer arrived seemingly overnight, however, I have news of a great way to keep your cool. Sandra Cesca and I try to get to the beach once a week. TRY is the operative word and we usually fail miserably due to conflicting schedules.

When we have managed to get out into the sun, close to some water – either fresh or salty, there have always been tiny disturbances that have kept us on the look-out for exactly what we both want to have on our day off: Peace and quiet, lounge chairs, tables, a restaurant if we decide to eat, a bar, of course, and, in a perfect world a shower to get rid of sand

and a swimming pool and good waiters that look good and are attentive and happy in their work.

We found it: Sapphire Ocean Club this side of the Blue Chairs so almost at the end of Los Muertos beach. What Sapphire did NOT have last Sunday afternoon: dozens of children screaming and laughing and running after their dogs and siblings; no music… it was awesome. AND, along with our complimentary beach towel and choice of table and chairs or comfortable lounge chairs poolside or the beach, yes, all with umbrellas, we were served freshly made ‘green juice’ in very cool tall bottles with big glasses of ice on the side.

Also complimentary! And, because neither of us is drinking alcohol just now, it made the day very affordable. The Sapphire Ocean Club menu is huge in size and content… everything looked wonderful that came out of the kitchen. Sandra and I have made a pact to go back every Sunday (schedules permitting) or at least once a week AND if you look through this issue you will find a coupon for 50% off the Day Pass price. Take that with you, present it to the ever-lovely Luz Maria at the door and be prepared to be pampered any day of the week, all summer long at the Sapphire Beach Club. Just lovely!

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local

Paradise

Finding

and Parenting Leza Warkentin

A

bout five years ago, when my son was barely seven, we went to a friend’s house for a play date with several other boys in his class. Our friends had a pool that was set in a vestibule, separated from the rest of the house by glass walls all around it. As my son walked around one side of the pool, he was brushed by another child, and he fell in.

He was used to being in the water, but he had only recently begun formal swimming lessons.

The water he had fallen into wasn’t deep, but it was over his head. He began to churn his little arms and legs, and I breathed out a puff of relief. But then his eyes met mine through the glass, and I instantly knew that he wasn’t going to make it to the other side. He was panicking, and he needed me.

Of course, if you are a parent, you will know that I could have easily thrown myself through the glass, ran directly across the water surface, and flung him to safety, strictly on mama-adrenaline-juice alone. I opted for the path of low bloodshed, so I jogged around the glass wall and tossed him a pool noodle, pulling him, coughing and sniffling, out of the water. All the while I kept smiling and nodding to him as though I knew everything was fine, because mothers are the world’s best liars.

This past week I was the one who fell in the pool, so to speak. We got some devastating news about the unexpected passing of a dear friend. The rest of the week all our best-laid plans were in shambles around us and we tried to piece ourselves back together and keep going. Fortunately, I am a planner and an experienced teacher, and so my classroom tasks were already prepared. I could go in and do my job while shutting out the deluge in my heart. But once home, I was spent. Gil was trying to keeping up with a busy work schedule as well, and my children were asking the tough questions that children ask when someone passes away unexpectedly. I felt as though the water

Your Happy

Rhonda Zarate

mommyinmexico.wordpress.com

Catch a Lifeline

May 19 - 25, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Roberto Ortiz de Montellano Farias roberto@ortizdemontellano.com

rhondazaratelifestyle@gmail.com

was lapping over my head, engulfing me completely.

That Friday was the Teacher’s Day party. It was for teachers only, and not for children. My husband had to work, so I declined the invitation. I always hate declining the Teacher’s Day party invitation, because it’s a gift from our PTA, and our PTA is awesome. But I felt too overwhelmed to come up with an alternative, and I didn’t know how to sew a science teacher disguise for my daughter.

The next day I took my son to a birthday party, and several mothers asked me how the teacher party went. I told them that I didn’t go, and why. The immediate outcry startled me. It was like I had announced that the new school uniform would only be sold in Bright White from now on.

One of the moms, a friend of mine, turned to me and said, “But why didn’t you tell us? Any one of us would have taken your kids for you.”

I answered “I didn’t want to just assume that someone would just take my kids so I could go to a party.” More angry outbursts ensued and another mom added, “WHAT? I do that all the time! We ALL do that all the time! What would we do if we didn’t?”I guess what we’d do is stay at home. I guess what we’d do is assume that we are alone in all of this. I guess what we’d do is feel as though we were drowning and that no one was there to haul us to solid ground.

My friend looked at my face and, probably seeing the familiar eyes of an overwhelmed mom, said simply “Don’t do that again. You call us. We will be there for you.”

You might be just like me, because a lot of moms are. You find yourself overwhelmed, but instead of asking for help, you keep it to yourself and you stay inside.

Maybe it’s time to change that.

Maybe it’s time to catch on to the lifeline someone is offering. Because I learned this week that when we accept that help, we are not letting our children down, but lifting them up to others who love them too.

Grab a lifeline, reach out and know that you aren’t alone. All you have to do is hold out your hand.

Everything is Figureoutable

I

have a new found attitude. Amen!

Hallelujah! I finally have come to the realization that everything is figureoutable! No matter what, there is a solution to every tricky situation. It just takes a bit of brain power to navigate around, to make the right and perfect solution for the issue with some creative juggling.

As you all know, another holiday has slipped by us. This one being our beloved “Mother’s Day.” This year, unfortunately, I was not with my beautiful boys nor my Mama. I got through the actual day ok, hanging on, with the sweet messages on the phone and their written words, peering up at me from the computer.

I tried hard to pull on my big girl pants, give gratitude while I tried to convince myself that the distance does not matter. It is our love connection that counts. I truly thought I had gotten through it with my heart in tack, and no collateral damage left behind.

That was until I opened my eyes the following morning. Then WHAM-BAM! It hit me. I started simmering like a volcano that was about to erupt! I started counting all the Birthdays, Valentine’s Days, Christmases, Easters, Thanksgivings, Father’s Days & Ground Hog Days, the list goes on as to all the family times, I have missed.

At that very moment, I decided I was going to declare that day, an NO getting dressed, brushing hair or teeth, wearing PJs, eating popcorn, ice cream, and gummy bear, watching Netflix chic movies, one after the other ALL day long, kind of day!

Well, I have to admit as enticing as that might sound, it gets old fast.

My pity party got boring. The next day, I woke with a new found determination to make some changes. I am a Warrior not a Victim kind of gal! My life is my creation that I chose to create. I just need to make a plan, then work that plan.

The next day with my new and improved attitude. I did a few extra

laps in the pool and worked off some of those carbs I had packed on the prior day. I came up with a creative plan, to orchestrate seeing my family more and making it happen, with a new travel plan budget to boot. I also talked to my family, suggesting that collectively, we need to make plans to see each other to stay close and making it happen, versus just lip service. We all know the saying “ a family who plays together, stays together.”

I am now happy to report that I am feeling good about the concrete actions that we are going to implement, life feels full again.

Now that the dust has settled, I can give a proper reflection on this experience. I think that when you have such strong feelings, it is better just to lean into them.

Let them settle in, don’t fight them or over think them. Just be with the feelings and embrace your emotions.

Your entire body, mind, spirit appreciates you stopping and nurturing how your authentic self feels versus the flip side of attacking yourself with negative chatter, about what a baby you are or suppressing your emotions and stomping on them until you feel nothing at all.

If you allow yourself to flow downstream, letting the negative feelings flow away, this enables you to move, through these emotions versus getting stuck and bitter. Life is much too short to stay in the muck of things rather than splashing around in the clear fresh water.

Homework: Embrace your feelings in all the beautiful forms.

Learn to get into the flow of it with ease and joy. Sometimes you have to walk in the path of darkness to see the beauty of the light.

Rhonda Zarate is a Lifestyle Expert.

She is all about helping people to find their HAPPY! She helps people find their “Happy Home,” as a Realtor. She is an Author, Lifestyle Coach & Speaker. If you need help with your Real Estate or Lifestyle Consulting, she can be found at rhondazaratelifestyle@gmail.com, her blog rhondazaratelifestyle.

Follow Up Is the correct price stated in your purchase deed? Determining the price of real estate property is not an easy task. Many specific factors have to be considered in this process, such as the price of the land, materials and finishings, and the age and condition of the construction. And then there are also other factors that must also be considered, but that are somewhat relative, like supply and demand or location. In any case, whatever amount you agree with the seller as the purchase price, has to be accurately stated in your purchase deed.

It has been a common practice in Mexico that, at the request of the seller, the purchase deed states a price on the property lower than the actual price the buyer paid for. This is done to reduce the capital gains tax that the seller has to pay, but if you are buying and you get this proposal, you should decline it for your own benefit.

So what can happen if the correct price is not stated in my purchase deed? If when you bought you agreed with the seller to state in the purchase deed, a price lower than what you actually paid for, you can later have a problem when you try to sell the property. This problem will be that you will end up paying more capital gains tax than what you really should, since your acquisition price will be low compared to what you are selling for. This is why you should verify with your real estate agent and your attorney that the price you are paying is the actual price stated in the deed.

And the tax authorities will follow the money ….

Tax and money laundering regulations have become stricter in Mexico during the past couple of years. These regulations involve not only seller and buyer in a real estate transaction, but also other parties such as Notaries and real estate agents. Raising a flag to the tax authorities, either from Mexico or abroad, is something you should avoid by having a transparent transaction regarding the price of your property.

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Can the Taxman force you to come home?

Orlando Gotay, Tax Attorney

I

Wellness

Latina

Marcella Castellanos

tax@orlandogotay.com.

remember the vivid scene from my days in Palm Springs. At the end of a well-attended convention, I was walking home when convention goers were departing.

I heard a mildly anguished young man as he leaned out a back seat car window: “They’re taking me home, don’t let them!” The voice faded as the car sped toward Los Angeles.

That visual was funny, but being sent back to your country of origin on account of a tax pickle is clearly not. The U.S. has an international agreement with Mexico with a mechanism where one country can request the other to deliver up people charged with specific crimes, and other agreements to cooperate in tax investigations.

I have found instances where people were extradited for tax crimes. It can and does happen.

What is the likelihood of being charged with a federal tax crime?

The vast number of IRS interactions are “civil” matters. Tax, penalty and interest are paid and that’s that.

The Department of Justice website has details of most tax prosecutions where one can see recently profiled cases. But the Panama Papers are a tectonic shift, if not an outright tax earthquake.

Americans were named. President Obama asked Congress for increased tools against evasion.

Will they come knocking on your door and ask you to put down your cerveza?

The tax landscape of Americans

May 19 - 25, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

info@wellnesslatina.com overseas is extremely complex, more so than for the typical home lander. Opportunities to mess up are abundant. Penalties are steeper, even for failing to mail an information return with no tax due.

It is only a matter of time when “an example” is made out of someone.

“Serial” non-filers come to mind, and those who have not knowingly reported foreign bank accounts, ownership in foreign corporations or other businesses. Considering that one of the factors in decisions to prosecute is the “social control” value, I fear that the Panama Papers may propel prosecutors, tax people and politicians into going after matters once solved with civil penalties, just to send a message. I think it is like playing the lottery, but some people buy waaaaay more tickets than others.

Mexico is typically reluctant to deliver up its own. In the case of U.S. citizens, it is much easier for a person just to be found “unwelcome” and taken to the border. Not legally an extradition, but the effect is the same. Enjoy your cerveza… that knock? It’s just your neighbor, over for a cold one.

Orlando Gotay is a California licensed tax attorney (with a Master of Laws in Taxation) admitted to practice before the IRS, the U.S. Tax Court and other taxing agencies.

His love of things Mexican has led him to devote part of his practice to the tax matters of U.S. expats in Mexico. He can be reached at tax@orlandogotay.com.

Getting Away

S

ometimes when we live in paradise, it doesn't seem that we need to get away, because well, it's paradise or at least feels that way most of the time; however, whether we realize it or not, a change of perspective could be just what the doctor ordered.

Changing your scenery or reconnecting with family or friends, just might be exactly what you need. Getting away whether it's for a weekend or a couple of weeks can reboot your vitality, mental focus and spirit.

I recently took a business trip and decided to mix it with pleasure and extended the time I stayed in California so that I could enjoy changing sceneries for a bit while

I indulged being with my family.

Though of Mexican heritage, I was born and raised in California and my entire nuclear family is spread out between southern and northern California. Of course, it was a nice refuge to get some fresh, cool air - a lovely break from Vallarta weather.

When one travels, you notice how subtle changes in weather, culture, systems, exchanges with people make you increasingly grateful for the life you have.

When I was in Salt Lake City, Utah, I appreciated seeing the snow-capped mountains; to learn more about the awesome essential oil business I represent; and breathe in the fresh air. Now in Pasadena, CA I love being with family especially holding my youngest niece in my arms, the many

options for plant-based dining, and discount shopping! In a week, I'll be able to see a whole other set of siblings as well as my parents.

As much as I feel blessed to live in Vallarta - close to the ocean, the river, the trees and in touch with the community, there is much about the amenities in the U.S. that I appreciate too - the cleanliness, the structure, how modern it is. I will say, that just the very act of getting away seems enough to reboot the system and return to my usual rhythm with a set of fresh eyes.

How do you feel when you travel to Vallarta or if you live here, how do you feel when you go away for a while? I would love to hear from 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 be the best version of yourself. She looks at the whole picture and helps you incorporate plant-strong nutrition, movement, and essential oils to support physical and emotional health. If you want to receive health and wellness updates about vibrant, healthy living sign up for her newsletter at www.wellnesslatina.

Haciendas and coffee plantations: an aromatic experience

I

f you are a fan of this stimulating beverage, you will love the fact that in Mexico, especially in Veracruz, Oaxaca and Chiapas, the experience with this beverage transcends the usual cup of coffee, as the plantations where it is produced are open for you to stay in them, enjoy their tropical climate and really get to know the process by means of which the seed is transformed into a delicious cup of coffee.

Since its arrival in Mexico in 1796, coffee became immediately integrated into the countryside, the tables and the tastes of the Mexican people. Currently, coffee produced in Veracruz, Chiapas and Oaxaca has denomination of origin, and its high quality has received awards worldwide.

Locally here in Jalisco and Nayarit there are several small highland coffee plantations, particularly around San Sebastian de Oeste where you will find a couple great brews. Hacienda Jalisco is the original offices of

the mining company back when San Sebastian was a thriving mining town. Now it is a guesthouse and has a small shade grown organic coffee plantation.

Trip Advisor Review: February 2015 - If you want to borrow a night from the past, this is such a cool place to stay.

On top of the history of the place (you are spending the night above a Museum), the grounds are beautiful, and the rooms ignite the imagination.

Highlight for us was catching Joe, the owner, on a coffee roasting day. He spent an hour with us explaining the art form, showing us the beans in process and letting us assist with bagging.

For a couple of DIY food nerds from the Pacific NW, it was really special.

Check out VallartaTribune. com for more information on San Sebastian.

An informal facebook survey of savvy Puerto Vallartens supplied this list of great coffee shops.

Page in the Sun – offering beans and fresh brewed coffee, along with lighter fare and thousands of books, magazines and newspapers.

Salud – A popular healthy lunch spot, Salud coffee comes highly recommended.

Coffee Cup Vallarta – A great meeting spot in Marina Vallarta, this shop is a bastion in a sea of otherwise pricey restaurants.

Café Catederal – An institution in Vallarta, when they roast their beans the whole neighbourhood smells divine.

Café Oro Verde – This is the coffee we drink in my office.

Rich, aromatic and Wen, the guy behind the counter is a wealth of interesting knowledge.

“Wen, at Cafe de Oro is more than a coffee man. He is a sensei, a medicine man, and every visit brings new enlightenment to my life.” Facebook Other popular spots include: Café Vayan, Café Cafesto, El Sofa, Dee’s, Café del Mar, Café Bohemio and K’Rico.

Forty-one restau three-cours

T

he twelfth edition of Restaurant Week, a culinary event that will take place in the Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta from May 15-31 with 41 restaurants participating this year.

The event is presented by Vallarta Lifestyles and is sponsored by the Riviera Nayarit Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Puerto Vallarta Tourism Trust

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

urants will offer special menus with prix-fixe se meals for either MX$249 or MX$399 and Bay Vallarta magazine.

There will be 41 participating restaurants offering special menu with prix-fixe three-course meals for MX$249 or MX$399 (the price does not include tips or beverages.)

This year there are seven new restaurants on the list and another seven that have participated for all the twelve years in a row.

Restaurant Week is known for evolving year over year and one of the improvements for 2016 is a pocket guide for menus.

Another very important aspect of the event that will help in the promotion of the participating restaurants is the creation of a bilingual newsletter titled Restaurant Week Foodie Report.

“This year we have made a commitment to promote the parti-

cipating restaurants during the next 12 months via this monthly digital newsletter,” explained event organizer Paco Ojeda.

“That way we can continue our mission of lending our support to the participating restaurants throughout the year.

Thanks to this added value we’re certain even more restaurants will want to participate for 2017.”

Day Pass 50% off PRESENT THIS COUPON

Towel service / Pool / Lounge chairs Delightful cocktails / Superb Bistrot menu Pet-friendly www.sapphire.mx

Expires October 31, 2016

Malecon 1, Playa Los Muertos

wildlife

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May 19 - 25, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Local to Banderas Bay Animals

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e have our share of party animals in the clubs and along the malecon but for those interested in learning more about indigenous wildlife that you can find (though it may be very difficult) around the bay or in the Sierra Madres that envelop us, here is a list of some of the most popular. There are tour companies that offer various excursions where you may be able to see some of the animals listed below.

Mammals Armadillo

The Nine-banded Armadillo is a cat-sized, armored, insect-eating mammal. Similar in form to an anteater, the bony, scaled shell of the armadillo protects it from attacks by predators. A prolific digger, armadillos dig many burrows, as well as dig for food.

Distribution is often determined by soil conditions, since the animal will not survive in areas where the soil is too hard to dig. Many other wildlife species use and benefit from these abandoned burrows.

Coati Mundi One of the most mischievous members of the raccoon family is the Coati Mundi. This creature lives in Mexico, Central America and Paraguay. Generally reddish brown in color, with a long brown or black ringed tail and an extraordinarily long and slender nose, Coatis spend their nights in trees and ascend at dusk, usually traveling through the jungles in search of food. Coati Mundi eat fruits, young birds, eggs, lizards and insects.

Jaguar The jaguar is one of the most majestic and mysterious animals in nature. The jaguar has a compact body, a broad head and powerful jaws. It is the largest cat in the Americas, found mainly in Central and South America, but some continue to survive in Mexico.

Only an estimated 15,000 jaguars remain in the wild. Although they prefer thick forest or swamps with good cover and water access, jaguars have been known to hunt in arid, open areas.

Jaguarundi The Jaguarundi (Herpailurus yaguarondi) is a medium-sized Central and South American wild cat. It has short legs and an appearance somewhat like an otter; the ears are short and rounded. The fur is a uniform chestnut brown, but can range from grey to dark brown.

Their coats have no markings except for spots at birth. These cats are more closely related to puma and jaguar than smaller species of cats as evident by their similar genetic structure and chromosome count.

Margay The Margay, also known as the Long Tailed Spotted Cat, is similar in appearance to the Ocelot - its body however is smaller, growing up two 25-27 inches and in comparison with the Ocelot, the margay displays longer legs and tail. The cats markings are similar to that of the ocelot and its smaller relative the tiger cat or oncilla - having dark ringed rosette markings on a tawny to yellow/buff background.

Ocelot Only about twice as long as a house cat, the ocelot is an amazing climber, spending most of its time high in the trees. When it comes time to hunt, though, the ocelot sticks to the ground in the dark of night, and chases its dinner down with speed and agility. Excellent hearing and vision help the ocelot to catch its prey of small mammals, lizards, snakes, and birds.

Reptiles

Green Iguanas These animals are mainly arboreal and can be found in large trees with dense canopies, especially in humid areas. They seem to prefer branches near or overhanging water, so if threatened, may leap to the ground or dive into water, escaping danger. Their diet consists of fruit, vegetables, and some flowers.

When young, iguanas will also eat insects. Adults can reach lengths of 4-6 feet, including the tail, and weigh as much as 30 pounds.

Spiny-Tailed Iguana In the wild, Spiny-tailed iguanas are found in Mexico to Central America. They are predominantly black but the dorsal surface may show black bands on a grayish background and they can reach a length of 24-36 inches (61-91.4 cm.) The Spiny-tailed iguanas

habitat is lower branches of large trees, rocks, stone walls, and along borders of forests. Their diet consists of insects, spiders, lizards, rodents, fruits and leaves.

Mexican Beaded Lizard Mexican Beaded Lizards are large, venomous lizards that originate in Mexico and Guatemala. A close relative of the gila monster (Heloderma suspectum,) they possess venom glands in their lower jaws.

The venom is delivered by capillary action along grooved teeth, so in essence, they chew the venom into their prey. The white and yellow stripes and spots on its black bumpy skin give this lizard a

deciduous forest. The larger lilac-crowned parrot (Amazona finschi) is less common but more commonly seen in tropical deciduous forest. Amazon Parrots are quiet and inconspicuous when feeding or resting in trees; noisy and raucous during flight.

beaded appearance and its name.

Birds

Yellow-winged Cacique Native to Mexico, Yellow-winged Cacique are beautiful and very abundant blackbirds that live on the edge of the jungle in solitary nests or in small colonies in Jalisco, Nayarit, Guerrero, Michoacán, Oaxaca, Sinaloa and Sonora. Named for the bright yellow feathers that adorn their brilliant black bodies, Yellowwinged Cacique build bag-like nests that are up to 30 inches long, which can be seen in the middle or the upper parts of the trees.

Black-Throated Magpie Jay The Black-Throated Magpie Jay (Calocitta colliei) with its long tail and raucous cry is a conspicuous bird in tropical deciduous forests of the Sierra Madre. This beautiful bird has a large blue body with a black throat, a white chest and a long blue tail with white tips.

The Magpie Jay will place its nest usually in a thorny tree at heights up to 100 feet, giving them extra protection from predators during the long nesting season from November to July.

Amazon Parrots There are two species of Amazon parrots in the Banderas Bay region.

The white-fronted parrot (Amazona albifrons) is a small species that is locally very common in coastal thorn scrub and open tropical

Tropical Kingbird A very common bird (length 20 cm) with a grey head, white throat, brown wings, a yellow belly and a powerful bill. It has a orange spot on its head but that is mostly unobservable. This flycatcher is found in open country with trees, where you see it sitting without moving (often in palms) to fly up to catch insects in a typical flycatcher way. It is as aggressive against intruders like the great kiskadee and will chase after big birds like the yellowheaded caracara.

Great Kiskadee A member of the flycatcher family, the Great Kiskadee is about ten inches in length with black and white stripes on the crown and sides of its head and white line above its eyes, a white throat and bright yellow chest. Great Kiskadees eat insects like beetles, wasps, grasshoppers, bees and moths. Despite the fact that they are flycatchers, they also eat berries, seeds, mice, frogs, fish and lizards and will dive straight into the water to catch fish.

Blue-footed Booby The Blue Footed Booby is a tropical seabird that lives on the west coast of Mexico and along the coast of Ecuador and northern Peru. Just like its name suggests, the Blue-footed Booby bird has bright blue feet and is about the size of a goose. Its name comes from the Spanish word bobo which means “stupid fellow,” because Blue Footed Boobies are very tame birds, lacking the fear instinct of other birds.

They also appear to be a very clumsy bird on land.

Source:vallartaadventure.com

art & culture

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Y

ou Are Here, provides the opportunity to visit Puerto Vallarta, not as it is, but as it could become. It places us in the realm of innovative ideas and of new visions for the city, presenting a plan incrementally produced through independent, diverse, and heterogeneous ideas that together, exemplify a city panorama that pertinently responds to the urban challenges of the 21st century. This exhibition marks the second year anniversary of the opening of OPC (Office of Cultural Projects).

The exhibition brings together the vision of architects and urban planners, through work of critique and architectural proposals with great transformative potential for Puerto Vallarta. It covers aspects of cultural infrastructure, mobility, public space, real estate development models, responsible activators of public space, fluvial water management, environmental conservation, preservation of historical heritage, identity, imaginary, and social capital.

The exhibition is the result of curatorial efforts by the OPC team and Oscar Moran Guillén, architect and urban planner involved in urban projects through non-governmental organizations, as well as private practice. The exhibition seeks to create a space for dialogue and discussion about the urban reality of Puerto Vallarta and the potential for developing a critical long-term vision for future growth. OPC annually organizes an exhibition dedicated to Puerto Vallarta on the occasion of its anniversary (both the gallery and the Port). You Are Here coincides with the 98th anniversary of Puerto Vallarta, opening a space that fosters discussion and dialogue about the urban possibilities of the present and the future.

The exhibition consists of three main themes: Reflection and Criticism: through artistic representation techniques (audio visual, installation, graphic), a human reality of the city is presented, experiential implications of current urban policy and city making decisions that shape the everyday lives of the city’s dwellers.

Research and Heritage: reflects upon hard data, surveys and mapping from an academic perspective and is presented graphically to provide the opportunity for a comprehensive and analytical and de-romanticized reading of the city in with its problems, opportunities, its legacy

You Are Here - Exhibit

May 19 - 25, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

SPCA of Puerto Vallarta

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and its contrasts.

Urban Vision: displays projects with potential for broad impact and transformative qualities for the city, projects proposed but never built show through architectural representation such as models, plans, 3D visualizations, all independently produced mainly by architects and urban planners of Puerto Vallarta.

The exhibition features the participation of the following architects with practice in Puerto Vallarta: Ana Olivera, Alfonso Baths, Jorge Ramírez, Alberto Reyes, Leonardo Díaz Borioli, Luis Echeverria, Arturo Davila, Raul Henderson,

as well as project architects of national stature Javier Sanchez, Mauricio Rocha, Alejandro Zohn, and Ricardo Agraz.

It also features the participation of activists and artists such as Davis Birks, Javiera Pintocanales, Ana Joaquina Ramírez, Ana Ramos, Enrique Reyes, Eduardo Solórzano, Josef Kandoll, and Alejandra Ferrise Grant.

You Are Here: Urban Approximations opens on May 28, 2016 in the Office of Cultural Projects Puerto Vallarta at Juarez # 598 Aldama corner in downtown Puerto Vallarta.

Oscar Moran Guillén (Guadalajara, Jalisco 1976) received his degree in Architecture from ITESO (Guadalajara), Masters in Urban Planning from the University of Southern California (Los Angeles). Oscar is director and founder of the Architecture and Planning studio RH+OM. He has over 15 years of experience in the practice of urban planning, architecture and real estate development. He is a founding member of the OPC (Office of Cultural Projects) and is an active member of various non-governmental and urban activism organizations in Puerto Vallarta. He began his career as Research Manager at the Center for Housing Research and Documentation (CIDOC) at the National Housing Institute of Mexico under the direction of Sara Topelson. He gained most of his urban design experience working for AC Martin and Gensler in Los Angeles, leading urban planning projects in the United States, Korea, Egypt and Mexico.

He has conducted research at the Center for Economic Development in the University of Southern California, and has been involved in Transit Development Projects with the LA MTA since the early 2000s. In recent years he has worked as consultant to urban infrastructure projects in Mexico such as CETRAM Cuatro Caminos in the metropolitan area of Mexico City among others. He exercises his architectural practice in Puerto Vallarta where he is an active participant in Planning efforts through art collectives, activism, and non-profit institutions.

The Office of Cultural Projects (OPC) is an independent, nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting contemporary art through exhibitions, roundtables, public art initiatives and educational services programs. Born with the desire to contribute to the reflection of contemporary, cultural, and artistic environment; with the aim of sharing it with the inhabitants and visitors of Puerto Vallarta. OPC works with various artists, architects, curators, academics, and writers who contribute to the construction of our notion of city and contribute to the cultural landscape linked to Puerto Vallarta but global reach.

ome and spend a rewarding afternoon cuddling the animals at Puerto Vallarta’s SPCA Sanctuary. Our dogs and cats are awaiting “forever homes” and your help is needed to jump start their socialization. The goal is to get these animals adjusted and ready to interact in the real world. The majority of the SPCA animals either come from extremely abusive situations or they have been abandoned. Your love and attention can make up for that sad history. During your visit, you can interact with the animals and even take a dog (or two or three) for a walk.

During the low season (May through October), reservations to visit the sanctuary need to be made in advance. To make a reservation, contact us at spcapv@gmail.com.

We appreciate any donations you can bring for our rescues and also please feel free to bring treats for

By Janice Gonzalez

sanctuary staff as they truly appreciate it.

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

Go to Photos where you will also find individual Albums for all the animals available as well as a bit of their history.

To make donations via PayPal, select the "Donate" option on our Facebook page www.facebook. com/spcapv or on our website at http://spcapv.com/donate/.

You can drop off any donations for the SPCA at Hacienda San Angel located at Calle Miramar 336, above Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in El Centro.

Get involved…rescue, adopt, foster, volunteer, donate or educate. Contact us at spcapv@ gmail.com. You can learn more about the SPCA Puerto Vallarta by checking us out at www.spcapv. com/home or on Facebook.

Adorable Dog In The Spotlight...

GRACIE

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ould you look at the smile on this girl’s face!?!?!

She is just a cutie with the most soulful eyes. Gracie is a Labrador mix, just a year old and weighs 32 pounds.

She has the most agreeable personality too! She is friendly and playful.

Gracie gets along with everyone she meets…including other dogs and even cats.

We rescued her off the streets with a bit of a leg injury but she is completely healed now with no lasting damage.

You should see her run and jump. Now she just needs to find her forever home. Gracie has been spayed and fully vaccinated.

If you are ready to give this lovely young lady a home of her own, contact us at spcapv@gmail. com for an application.

banderas bay

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May 19 - 25, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Explore Banderas Bay

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uerto Vallarta is located in the middle of Banderas Bay, one of the largest bays in Mexico at nearly 100km in length. It is bounded in the north

by Punta de Mita and in the south

by Cabo Corrientes. It straddles the states of Jalisco and Nayarit, divided along the Ameca River.

The bay is home to many wonderful communities and an abundance of natural wonders.

In the winter and spring seasons you can witness the awe inspiring beauty of the humpback whales as they calve in the warm waters of the bay, in the summer you can experience the majesty of the sea turtles hatching and returning to their watery world. The fall brings renewed vigour to the mountains and rivers with the fresh rains and revived vegetation. No matter when you visit, Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit will share their wonders with you.

Here is a selection of some of the many things you can do while visiting us.

Walking Tours - Take a tour through Puerto Vallarta’s Historic Downtown to learn about this city’s rich history, famous people, architecture, and cultural and ecological heritage; all this on an easy to moderate two-hour stroll led by a certified guide.

Be a Tourist - Even if you’re here on vacation for a month, there is no end to the number of top-notch activities you can do. Take a tour to Isla Marietas and the Hidden Beach, or spend the day snorkelling in Majahuitas, spend an afternoon at the zoo feeding the giraffe, check out the two water parks and for the brave: parasailing, bungee jumping and even sky diving.

Shopping in the Zona Romantica – this charming neighbourhood is also called Old Town and is a popular residential area for expats and Mexican families. Along the main streets you will find shops galore, filled with wonderful authentic crafts, clothing, jewelry, excellent restaurants, spas, theaters and more.

Vibrant and friendly, this area offers an excellent day or two (or more!) of exploring. Close to Los Muertos beach, consider ending your day with a sunset margarita at any of the many beachfront restaurants.

the markets or introduce you to the farmers and fishermen for a truly cultural experience. Don’t want to cook? Try one of the Food Tours available.

Eat like a local and for three hours you will enjoy everything from Tacos to Pozole.

Art Galleries – It is said there are more galleries per capita in Puerto Vallarta than any other place in Mexico. Many of these galleries are along the side streets that run through Centro. Stop at the Tourism Office in the Main Plaza for a map or take advantage of their free walking tour.

Many galleries carry high quality local crafts, established Mexican and international artists and more.

Sunsets on the Malecon Sitting on the edge of the Pacific Ocean never fails to give us a sunset each night. Grab a seat at any of the number of excellent bars and restaurants along the malecon, order your favourite cocktail and let it all slip away.

Once the sun has set, the

malecon comes alive with families out for a stroll, plenty of live entertainment and later in the night, the nightclubs beckon.

Cooking Classes – Recognized as one of the world’s leading cuisines, there are a number of great schools in the Puerto

Vallarta area that will teach you how to master tortilla soup, enchiladas, salsas and more.

Fresh seafood, abundant fruit and veggies and a sophisticated community make Vallarta a foodies dream destination. Look for a school that will take you to

TO THE NORTH AND SOUTH Sayulita – A short 45 minutes north of the Puerto Vallarta International Airport, Sayulita is the surfers mecca of Riviera Nayarit.

A funky town with a wonderful protected beach, this laidback town has a hippie vibe with the organic cafes and the yoga studios to prove it. Visit the Huichol Cultural Centre for some wonderful hand-made beaded jewelry or grab a surf lesson from one of the many vendors on the beach.

Bucerias - Named for the oyster divers that dot the shore in front of the beach, this town is a mecca for snowbirds, most which seem to be of the Canadian Goose variety. Freshest seafood in the bay and a selection of excellent local bars and restaurants, this little town is plenty of fun. On Thursday evenings during high season there is the entertaining Artwalk and during the day plenty of

galleries and a couple markets great for souvenir shopping.

Conchas Chinas The south of Puerto Vallarta is a thick jungle full of adventure and excitement. Head south along the 200 highway and you will find the architecturally inspiring community of Conchas Chinas. The beach cove here is excellent for snorkeling.

Nogalito The first town South is that of Nogalito. Set back in the jungle it is a charming Mexican village that also is home to one of the most popular day tours - the Canopy Mundo Nogalito Tour with the only tunnel zip-line in town. If you’re feeling the heat, stop at the Punta Negra bridge and take a drip in the river.

Lovely fresh water, lots of little pools to splash in and rocks to dry off on. If you’re lucky, a vendor will come by with snacks and drinks - otherwise pack your own.

Mismaloya 15 minutes further is Mismaloya, a small town set back from the water along a river that leads to the ocean and a number of beach restaurants. This bay looks onto Los Arcos and is a great place to grab a panga boat for a tour of the impressive rocks. If you have time, book a snorkel or dive trip.

This is one of the deepest ocean valleys in the world and home to turtles, whales, dolphins and the blue-footed Booby. Back behind the town, check out the Vallarta Zoo where you can play with baby monkeys, tigers and lions.

Boca de Tomatlan Boca de Tomatlan is the last town along the ocean and the place to grab a boat to the small beach communities of Quimixto, Las Animas and the very popular Yelapa. Looking for romance - book a table at the nearby Le Kliff for spectacular views and sunsets.

Volunteer - There are many wonderful organizations across the Bay that can use your help.

Both time or money will be appreciated. On Sundays, the Brigada de Basura does a morning clean-up with the local children and then they all head to Que Pasa restaurant for breakfast, activities and friendship.

Ride the bus - Buses in Puerto Vallarta are an experience all their own. You can tell the general destination of the bus by what is written on the window. Costco, Sheraton, Centro, Mismaloya you can go just about anywhere in this city on the bus.

Only seven and a half pesos within Puerto Vallarta (per bus there are no transfers) this is a great way to explore the neighbourhoods. Head south on the bus and get a front row seat on some spectacular scenery on your way to the Vallarta Zoo. Or hop the Bucerias bus in front of Walmart and 30 minutes later you are exploring a charming beachside town.

Tip: Sit on the non-sunny side of the bus. Trust me. It gets hot.

Support Local Business - One of the most popular reasons visitors love Puerto Vallarta is because it’s a thriving city not just geared towards tourists. A fine example of this is the many small businesses that you can find in ‘Centro’ including galleries, restaurants, clothing stores, spas and more. Venture off the malecon to find the perfect souvenir.

riviera nayarit

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Bucerias Art

Life

In La Cruz

District Beat

By Gordon Mayer

Meet the District – K.T. Kirkpatrick – Sone It has been said that the best way to learn a language is to put yourself in a situation where it is all you hear, all you read and where you must use it to communicate.

Immersion it is often called and those of us who have experienced it ourselves or watched our children almost instantly acquire a new language by it, would say it works. Match an individual who has the passion and penchant to learn with an environment soaked in the subject and supportive of sharing it and you have a recipe for fluency. From an early age, KT Kirkpatrick of Sone has found both the support necessary and a pool of creativity to immerse herself in. The resultant creations speak fluently a language of unique beauty, creativity and interest.

K.T. was inspired by her mother and sister who both create and in particular her mother’s jewelry pieces. Possessing what seems like a hereditary gift, she put her talent to work making her own wearable art and it ensconced itself as a part of her persona.

As she grew up, she sought out opportunities to soak in inspiration and art from any and all forms and artists, finding that as she placed herself in the culture, it adhered to and embellished her own talent bringing new light and life to her work. While studying Economics in college, she found herself employed at a bead store and it was not long before she was creating and teaching others to do likewise with the materials in the store.

Taking her education and core being as an artist, who found herself seizing opportunities to discover and experience new styles, even as a buyer for a retail outlet.

Wherever she found herself, K.T. ensured that her artistic voice was being developed and extended to be able to speak her art.

It is no wonder then that K.T. grabbed hold of an opportunity

May 19 - 25, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

By Cindy Bouchard to teach English to the children of Mexico via a not for profit group and then, through her network of like-minded people, found herself immersed in the culture of the Huichol people via The Huichol Center for Cultural Survival and Traditional Arts as an instructor and natural student. Here she bathed her mind and soul in a culture that uses art to tell stories and believes that they draw on a Higher Power for the creative impetus.

K.T. connected with the Huichol culture and to this day prefers to sit with her materials before her and simply being to create, allowing talent, experience and a fluent artistic expression speak to her and bring her to the piece of jewelry that seems predestined to be created.

“Do what feels right” is the internal instruction she follows and she excitedly works to “see what comes out”. The expression of who she is comes full circle now as a part of the trio of artists at Sone as she participates in the artistic offerings of the gallery and also contributes her skill and education to the business of Sone.

The Bucerias Art District (BAD) is a natural next step and the collaboration and community of the artists therein is now her instructor as she continues to absorb and develop.

K.T. and her partners in Sone Galleria, Nova and Dana, are unique and energetic additions to the BAD bringing not only a congruent collaborative perspective with them but also recognizing that they are blessed and fortunate to have what they have and expressing it in a desire to give back.

As part of their future plan they intend to share their space with local artists who do not have a venue and to share their gifts and talents with youth and others who have little access to art and artistic expression.

Taking their mantra from their name Sone, “I dreamed” they are swiftly becoming the leaders of a new generation in the BAD with the pillars and artists of tenure in it cheering them on. All that I think needs be said to this dynamic trio is, “Sonaste. Suena mas!”

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

Masala; where it’s all about the spice!

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hen I asked Julio what brought him to La Cruz to open his restaurant, Masala, he told me that his brother-in-law Enrique suggested they open a restaurant just down the street and he knew of just the place. Most of us know Enrique from his seafood restaurant, La Glorieta de Enrique, here in La Cruz, but is it only me who never knew the connection? Rita and Enrique are brother and sister.

Rita was born and raised in Bucerias where she worked as a chef at Mark’s restaurant for 18 years and most importantly; that’s where she met Julio who was originally from Zihuatanejo. When I asked Julio if it was love at first sight he just laughed and shook his head so I gather not, however; I must say it was a union that was meant to be.

Julio also worked at Mark’s restaurant for 10 years as headwaiter and when he and Rita left there they created many great things together.

First, they were in charge of breakfasts at Enrique’s restaurant, then they created Masala restaurant and then the restaurant at the beach club at Punta Esmeralda but their best creation yet was Logan, their son!

My guests often ask if Masala is an Indian restaurant, as the name seems to imply. Its not, when I asked Julio about that he said they named it that as they created their own Masala spice using 7-8 custom ingredients.

What I know is that our guests rave about the meals… and so do we. “Have you had the pork chops?”, “Oh the scallops, they were divine”, “The presentation…”, “That tuna!”, “I’d have paid at least double what I spent there to enjoy such a marvelous meal in my city” and more!

If they must define the food Julio says its Mexican/Mediterranean/ Asian fusion. Originally only Rita did the cooking and creating of the menu but Julio says Rita taught him and now he loves to cook too.

At home he’ll create a meal and Rita will judge it and vice versa and that’s how the new creations make it to the restaurant… or not.

He says that seafood is definitely

his favourite and currently on the menu he recommends everything but most loves the Masala prawns with ginger, citrus and saffron and the seared tuna. Although he enjoys working in the kitchen Julio says greeting their guests makes him most happy. He always leaves the kitchen to visit with the guest after their meal.

If you’re lucky enough to arrive on a Thursday, in high season, you’ll get to enjoy the fabulous flamenco music of Tatewari.

Although they’re extending their opening dates by a few days every year, their greatest challenge is keeping the restaurant full in the off-season; hence they close in the summer. Julio and Rita are planning a summer menu that will attract more locals; both Mexican and foreigners, and intend to introduce it soon.

Their location in Punta Esmeralda is also a hit with the locals.

They serve breakfast and lunch and although I haven’t eaten there yet I’ve only heard great things form my friends who have.

He says they enjoy life here and hope La Cruz never gets too crowded. Julio and Rita invite you to come and enjoy!

riviera nayarit

18

May 19 - 25, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

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

H

ey Everybody! Another week of sunshine and as I write this at 3:30 in the afternoon it’s a balmy 84 degrees, and slightly humid. Plants are getting dry…everything is ready for the rain to begin. Bring on the rain! I am also currently seeking a care taker for the ranch in Bucerias. Please see the email addresses below if you’re interested. Gracias!

What’s up around the North Bay area?

There are a few new things going on around the North end of the Banderas Bay to announce.

The Gecko Rojo in La Cruz will be having a Rib Fest with live music by Cantus Eterna on June 1st. Sharon loves to create parties so she will also have some games going on. She is such a fun person! Gloria’s Place in La Cruz, located across from Philo’s Bar has a lot of new dresses, long and short… that lovely cotton gauze which is perfect for summertime. Her new summer hours are Tues, Wed and Friday from 12-3pm.

The Black Forest Restaurant in La Cruz is now open now with their new summer hours, which are Sunday to Friday 6-10pm. They will be open until September, and then go on their annual vacation for four weeks.

They are still having their Sunday promo with the 2x1 Schnitzel Baden-Baden, which has now become my very favorite meal to order there. It’s delicious served with thick, rich gravy! It’s Schnitzel Sunday Madness!

Esquina 22 Bar and Lounge

in Bucerias has AC, and they are happy to turn it on at your request. Amanda of Amanditas Bay Curry in Bucerias is cooking up the Curry! Her new summer hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 5-10pm.

She is offering specials Thursday of Shrimp Rolls marinated with clarified butter, garlic, lemon, Chili Serano and Indian spices, then wrapped up in fresh spinach creating a crispy spring roll…and Lentil Soup with curried lentils and spices. Indian Basmati Rice and terrific Nann bread…Everything is SO good there!

Xolocatl by Roberto’s in La Cruz will also remain open all summer with the best views of the bay. Enjoy the breeze and a beautiful summer sunset views. I will absolutely be stopping by Mark’s Bar and Grill in Bucerias for “Restaurant Week” which began on May 15th and runs to May 30th.

They also have their summer menu out and the fun summer snack specials. Pancho makes the best Mai Tai’s around with fresh squeezed orange juice!

OK…I think I am turning into a real “foodie” here! hahahaha.

Spring Cleaning When we think of the term “spring cleaning” it typically brings to mind cleaning out the clutter in the casa or garage, getting rid of clothes you have not worn in over a year.

Cleaning out the old stuff allows us to feel a new sense of openness or freedom in our home space. However, rarely do

we think about the clutter in our minds; all of the old thoughts and emotions that have piled up over the years.

You may have heard of a saying, “If our environment is a mess, so is our mind, and vice versa”. When your office is

Then, the new ideas can come into focus and be created.

I have actually been doing this process for the past few weeks.

Apparently I had a lot to clean out! Here is a meditation to help you with this process.

Spring Cleaning for your

When you take the time to clear out old thoughts and emotions that no longer serve you it allows one to think more clearly with more focus and to create the feelings of being inspired and feeling purposeful. cluttered it can have a similar effect on our minds. When this happens we can feel overburdened. The same goes for our minds when we are overrun with ideas, deadlines and all of those to-do lists we can’t seem to ever get completed.

Our environment will act as a mirror image of what’s going on in our internal world.

When you take the time to clear out old thoughts and emotions that no longer serve you it allows one to think more clearly with more focus and to create the feelings of being inspired and feeling purposeful.

Mind Meditation 1. Sit in a comfortable upright position with your legs uncrossed and your feet flat on the ground.

Close your eyes and begin to take slow deep breaths in your nose and out your mouth.

2. Bring to mind any thoughts, ideas, beliefs and old emotions that have become stagnant, non-serving or irrelevant. One by one see if you can connect to what their original purpose was.

Then see if they have a reason for still existing. Does something need more exploring or is that energy ready to be dissolved and released?

3. When you come to the realization that it’s time to let go of the mind / emotional clutter thank it for having served its purpose in any learning or wisdom it had for you back then.

4. Now imagine seeing it dissolve like a morning layer of fog as the sun shines through, or you can visualize erasing it from the chalkboard to reveal a clean slate. You can make up your own thing..Take the time you need to do this.

5. Once you’ve cleared away that which no longer needs to occupy your mind, spend some time connecting to the open space that you have created.

The space that you have created does not mean that your minds is now empty, but, rather, see it as being filled with the element of space, which represents pure potentiality.

6. Next, invite in a new thought or belief in the form of an intention for something you would like to manifest in your near future. It may be an old idea like writing a book, or a new idea. Plant your idea like a seed. Then hand it over to the universe to orchestrate the mechanics to bring it into your experience. Hand it over and let go of the control.

The universe knows what it’s doing!

7. Trust that the universe will take care of the details. Take a few slow deep breaths before opening your eyes. Have a glass of water to help you ground back into the present moment.

Any way you look at it, Spring Cleaning is a great time to clear out what no longer serves you!

Thanks so much for tuning in this week. If you have any questions, or would like help in clearing old patterns, please feel free to email me at Cat@NewEnergyConsciousness.com or Cat@ RivieraNayaritFun.com . It’s what I do…my niche so to say, and a huge part of who I AM. May you find peace and joy on the journey… AHO!!

celebrity / events

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Pride Vallarta Events

JOHN WAYNE – The Duke

P

By Fred Jacobs

J

ohn Wayne was born Marion Robert Morrison on May 26, 1907, in Iowa. John’s father was a pharmacist and his mother a dutiful homemaker and mother. John’s grandfather was an American Civil War veteran-Marion Mitchell Morrison (1845–1915).

The Wayne family moved to Palmdale, California when John was just nine years old.

A local firefighter at the fire station that was on John’s route to school in Glendale started calling John "Little Duke" because John never went anywhere without his huge Airedale Terrier, Duke. John preferred "Duke" to "Marion" and the nickname stuck.

While in high school, John worked in an ice cream shop and was very athletic. He even played football for the 1924 league champion Glendale High School team.

His athletic abilities led John to get a scholarship to the University of Southern California (USC), majoring in pre-law. A broken collarbone (the result of a body surfing accident) halted his athletic career.

John lost his athletic scholarship and was forced to drop out of USC. The coach of the USC football was friends with Tom Mix (a silent western film star of the day) and got Mix and director John Ford to hire “Duke” as a prop boy and an extra at the studio.

Tom Mix was also good friends with Wyatt Earp-legendary lawman and part of the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral. John met Earp on several occasions and later credited his walk, talk, and onscreen mannerisms to his acquaintance with Wyatt Earp.

Duke soon started to get bit parts in movies and established a longtime friendship with the director who provided most of those roles, John Ford. In 1930, director Raoul Walsh saw Duke moving studio furniture while working as a prop boy and ended up casting him in his first starring role in The Big Trail (1930).

For his screen name, the director suggested "Anthony Wayne", but the head of Fox Studios rejected it as sounding "too Italian." The director then suggested "John Wayne." The studio agreed, and the name was set, even though Duke was not even present for the discussion. So Marion (Duke) Morrison was gone, and John Wayne (Duke) was born.

John’s pay was also raised to $105

a week (about $1,500 today).

The Big Trail was not a commercial success, and it sent John Wayne to small roles in “A” budget movies. For most of the 1930’s John was seen mainly in “B” movies and low budget “poverty row” westerns.

Some 80 “horse operas” in total between 1930 and 1939.

The 1930’s also saw John Wayne marry the first of his eventual three wives-Josephine. They had four children together.

John Wayne's breakthrough role came with director John Ford's “Stagecoach” (1939). But getting the movie made was difficult, because of John Wayne's B-movie status and track record in low-budget Westerns throughout the 30s.

Ford had difficulty getting financing for what was to be an “A” budget film.

But Ford managed to wheel and deal and got the movie made. It became a huge critical and financial success, and John Wayne became a mainstream star.

When the US entered the Second World War, John wanted to enlist but was declined due to his age and his four dependent children.

So as many in Hollywood did during the time, John Wayne joined the USO and toured U.S. bases and hospitals in the South Pacific in 1943 and 1944. But guilt from “staying home” never left John.

“The Sands of Iwo Jima” (1949), would earn John Wayne his first Oscar nomination. John Wayne would appear in more than 20 of John Ford's films throughout the next two decades, including She Wore a Yellow Ribbon (1949), The Wings of Eagles (1957), and The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962) with James Stewart: the first movie in which he called someone "Pilgrim".

“The Alamo” (1960) earned

May 19 - 25, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

John his second Oscar nomination.

John also produced and directed the film.

John Wayne finally won a Best Actor Oscar for “True Grit” (1969).

This came 20 years after his first nomination. In 1974, John Wayne took the role of gritty detective “McQ” in a popular crime drama.

His last film was “The Shootist” (1976), in which he played a character who was dying of cancer -the illness to which Wayne himself died of three years later.

In all, John Wayne is credited with starring in over 140 films.

Wayne also appeared in the Top Ten Money Makers Poll of all films from 1949 to 1974 with a total of 25 years on the list. Wayne has more appearances than any other star on the lists, beating Clint Eastwood (21 yrs.) into second place.

John Wayne has married a total of 3 times (all were Latina women) and had seven children.

His last wife, Pilar, was with John from 1954 until John’s passing from cancer in 1979. John Wayne left behind a filmography of machismo in the Wild West and during wartime, that is of an era long gone.

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

ride Vallarta has two weeks of hot events around Puerto Vallarta. Here is a selection of some of the most popular. More details at vallartapride.com Music Festival Friday May 20 6:30 pm - 10:30 pm Los Muertos Pier street.

Pride is thrilled to add a local music festival to the lineup of the pride events for 2016. Our very own local craft brewers: Los Muertos Brewing Company and El Terrible, along with the Fideicomiso are excited to present the first Pride Rock Music Festival.

Come enjoy the beer and dance to the music of Vallarta’s finest musicians.

A more magical night cannot be had with the world famous pier and sea in the background!

Health Fair Saturday May 21 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm at Pitillal Plaza.

An educational and interactive event designed as an outreach to promote healthy practices and provide basic preventive medicine and medical screenings to members of the community.

Welcome Zoo Pool Party Sunday May 22 10:00 am - 6:00 pm Mantamar Beach Club Bar & Grill.

Show your wild side! A beach party like no other, sand, sun and the best DJ music with lots of fun and unique atmosphere.

Sunset Marriage Ceremony Tuesday May 24 8:00 pm - 11:00 pm Mantamar Beach Club Bar & Grill.

This LGBT wedding ceremony is open to all who are interested in marrying or renewing their vows. This year it is a true marriage ceremony* as our state, Jalisco has legalized Equality in Marriage. Your scenic wedding overlooking the ocean under a spectacular Vallarta sunset awaits. This seaside fest with family and friends is complete with wedding cake and a champagne toast finale. (Cost per person.)

Drag Derby Thursday May 26 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm Kick off of Vallarta Pride’s main weekend at this Block Party by placing your bet on your favorite Drag Queen then watch them compete to your complete enjoyment.

This fundraiser for Amapas Neighbor-

hood and the Pride Committee is sure to evoke uncontrolled laughter.

Opening Party Thursday May 26 10:00 pm - 2:00 am La Alhambra Lounge .

The Pride Committee is excited to welcome the newest bar to Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone – Alhambra Lounge. Join us as they open their huge wooden doors for the Official Opening Party for Pride 2016!

Alhambra’s sexy environment offers a refined sense of style that promises to make your night truly magical. Meet the Pride Committee and our special VIPs at this friendly Welcome Event!

Surprises await all those who attend – It is rumored that a few guests stars might make an appearance.

Chanclifiesta by PINK&PROUD Friday May 27 -9:00 pm - 4:00 am Parque Parota, Zona Hotelera Norte.

For the first time ever, all the rhythms, all the decades, for all the women!

Pride Parade 2016 Saturday May28 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm from the Sheraton Buganvilias to Malecon, to Lazaro Cardenas' Park.Thousands of cheering, rainbow-clad LGBT supporters will flock to the cobblestone streets of Vallarta on Saturday afternoon, May 28th to celebrate gay pride in a monumental year for marriage equality.

The three-kilometer parade starts promptly at 5PM in front of the Sheraton Buganvilias Resort and Convention Center and travels along the world-famous boardwalk to Lazaro Cardenas Park where parade-goers and participants will enjoy celebrity guests including Myriam Montemayor winner of the popular TV reality show “La Academia”, live entertainment, exhibitors and a food and beverage court.

Closing Party Sunday 29 - 11:00 am - 7:00 pm Mantamar Beach Club Bar & Grill.

It will be a fond “Adios” to Vallarta Pride 2016 at a fun and fabulous closing party. Cheer on your favorite players in the annual Drag Queens vs Leather Boys volleyball match. Under Vallarta’s glorious sun with the ocean, pool and sand will be at your toe tips as treat yourself to food and drink created by Cafe des Artistes.

VENECIA #290-A Col. Versalles Fluent English Spoken

healthcare

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May 19 - 25, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Breast scaring, a challenge in cosmetic surgery

vallarta shopping & services

O

ne of the most common cosmetic procedures in Mexico is breast augmentation surgery.

Everyone has their own reasons for choosing this procedure including increased self-esteem and corrective surgery, so much so that breast augmentation tends to be normalized.

While most patients experience no side effects and are pleased with the results of their surgery, there are a small percentage of women who do not get the results they expected.

Among the aesthetic complications of breast surgery, is the possibility of scaring because of

the surgery, while not life threatening it can lead to depression and lack of satisfaction with the results.

Some women experience scars that are raised, thick, red, pleated or blotchy, that both highlights the surgery and prevents the patient from being comfortable in showing their new body.

Seeking medical assistance in diminishing or removing the scars is a viable option in Puerto Vallarta with the recent opening of the Wound Healing Clinic in the Vallarta Medical Center.

With so many varieties of scar, using a combination of methods is currently the best treatment.

Wheeling Vallarta Segway Tours

Located across from McDonald’s

322-223-8014 Fine Art and Furniture

31 de Octubre 107 Col. Centro Puerto Vallarta Malecon

There are about ten methods that can be employed to improve the appearance, the most common being ointments, injections, minor burning on its surface, removing and rebuilding the area and introducing color.

Scars can be difficult to treat and rarely will they be completely removed but with the treatments available through Dr. Mauricio Alvarez at the Wound Healing patients can receive modern and cutting edge technology with up to date procedures.

Dr. Mauricio Alvarez Wound Healing Clinic Vallarta Medical Center

VALLARTA SHOPPING AND SERVICES www.vallartatribune.com

Three Hens & a Rooster Market News

By Marcia Blondin

W

e have bagels and we have pie! Peter Hardy and Mark Hughes are back at work all night long to bring you the freshest, tastiest baked (and boiled!) goodies in the entire State of Jalisco. First, stop on your Saturday morning hunt for the finest quality food, services, and lovely things to wear, stop at Three Hens and a Rooster Market on Upper V. Carranza from 9 to 1.

We are so delighted to have Peter and Mark for the summer; once you get used to the best, it is difficult to ‘make-do’ with store-bought bagels or quiche that was frozen years ago. Just a simple walk up from the beach, a couple of blocks past Farmacia Guadalajara and there we are. We look forward to seeing you.

Lisa Love, an amazing woman with so many talents, is working hard on her boutique space right next to mine.

She hopes to be open in a week or two.

Richard Canter is on hand every week, not singing much but selling fabulous hand-crafted candles – that you can order to have made for a special occasion or just because.

His Boutique is a candle/decor gallery. Richard also helped me choose a name for my new line of earrings. We bounced a few names back and forth settled on one thing then I altered it somewhat and came up with “MIXTO” as they are a composite of various found things put together.

Photos next week, I hope! I also have a lot of post earrings, clips and screws (vintage) and single earrings for those

of you who don’t like matching up or only need one.

The uber glamorous Georgia Darehshori owner of Casa Karma came in sporting a silk necklace I made a few years ago when I was at the Paradise Community Center Market. It still looks as lovely on her now as it did then. Mimi will be sporting some new silk scarves I am making from an incredibly long (over four meters) Indian sari.

Look for her outside my boutique – she’ll be the only six-foot tall bald mannequin at Market.

Oh, and she’s purple.

Three Hens and a Rooster Market is every Saturday 9 am to 1 pm on upper Venustiano Carranza 466 between Jacarandas Street and El Brujo Restaurant, across the street from the ice factory.

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 City Walking Tours Tuesdays at 9am and 12 Walk with us around the city and get to know and enjoy all the colorful corners and streets of Puerto Vallarta.

Ceviche and Aguachile Market Tuesdays at Los Muertos Pier 12-4pm Come and enjoy a variety of ceviche and aguachiles prepared by residents of Calle Francisca Rodriguez, merchants and restaurateurs of the region.

INTERNATIONAL FRIENDSHIP CLUB

IFC’s Cleft Palate Program For thirty years IFC has been providing free medical care to children in this area who have cleft palates.

Throughout those years surgeons and nurses have donated their time and expertise to this program.

The medical team has also received wonderful support and hospitality from homeowners and local restaurants.

Thank you – Muchas gracias! www.ifcvallarta.com 322-222-5466

WEDNESDAY City Walking Tours Wednesdays at 9am and 12 Walk with us around the city and get to know and enjoy all the colorful corners and streets of Puerto Vallarta.

Palm Ranch Volunteer Days 9 am to 1 pm - in Mezcales palmranchvolunteers@gmail.com for detailed information

Artwalk 6-10pm until end of May in the historic centre of Vallarta. Art collectors, local residents and interested visitors are invited to discover the great variety and exceptional quality of art available in Puerto Vallarta.

FRIDAY Marsol Market by the Pier, Old Town, Vallarta 10 - 2 Farmers and Craft Market SATURDAY Three Hens and a Rooster Market From 9am to 1pm, on Carranza 466, Old Town, Vallarta Farmers and Craft Market City Walking Tours Saturdays at 9am Walk with us around the city and get to know and enjoy all the colorful corners and streets of Puerto Vallarta.

SUNDAY Live Music in the Main Plaza, Vallarta – 6pm

“Remodeling and Renovations”

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

charity

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May 19 - 25, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com

Non - Profit and Charitable Organizations UPCOMING EVENTS

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

The 2016 Laser World Championship (May 10-18 / May 20-28) The last two of four phases of an international event that brings together the best sailors in the world will take place in May: first the Laser Standard Men’s World Championship followed by the Laser Masters World Championship – Standard, both in Nuevo Vallarta. http://www.laserworlds2016.org/index.php/ Restaurant Week (May 15- 31) This culinary celebration is a community event where over 40 restaurants from the Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta come together to create a specially approved prix fixe menu during the entire two weeks in order to extend the region’s high season and promote its many amazing gastronomical delights.

Vallarta Pride (May 16-30) For the fourth consecutive year, Puerto Vallarta, is the proud home of Vallarta PRIDE, scheduled to take place from May 16th to 30th, 2016, under the motto “We are one family.”

The most important pride LGBTTIQ festival in the region will host several events that include: art, culture, concerts, entertainment, movies, parties, grand gay pride parade and fun for everyone. vallartapride.com/ May 20 Music Festival at the Pier In Celebration of Pride we’re closing the road and bringing in the bands and DJ’s. Savoury street food, classic cocktails and ice cold beer are offered while you “get your groove on” to an eclectic selection of music played with “party” in mind.

May 20-22 Riviera Nayarit Wind Festival National contest of Kite surfing at Main Beach of Bucerias south, where over 180 domestic competitors come together for a weekend, competing in freestyle and categories. festivaldelviento.mx Riviera Nayarit Mountain Bike (May 28) The mountains of Higuera Blanca is the meeting place for over 300 riders who will gather for a tour along one of the most scenic and fun routes of the domestic Lijacim race; with its 26 categories, it has something to offer every kind of mountain bike enthusiast.

For visitors to Puerto Vallarta who wish to support the less privileged in our paradise, this is a list of some of the many organizations that could benefit from such kind gestures.

If you would like your organization recognized here, please email details to editor@vallartatribune.com.

Acción En La Cruz aid residents of La Cruz de Huanacaxtle by providing provisions in exchange for community services performed.landon5120. wix.com/accionenlacruz Alcoholics Anonymous: In English Puerto Vallarta Alanon Club - Basilio Badillo 329 recoverpv.com Amazing Grace Missions Assisting families in Magisterio & Progreso with necessities and job training and English. slw2014nv@gmail.com American Legion Post 14: raises resources and manpower to improve facilities needing building maintenance americanlegion14.org Amigos del Magisterio - Food delivered directly to workers at the PV dump, their families and schools in Magisterio and Volcanes. Also, food to New Beginnings, Pasitos de Luz, and Caritas. 100% of donations to the people, no overhead.amigosdelmagisterio.com lysephilrioux@

hotmail.com Asilo San Juan Diego Home for the Elderly - Contact: Lupita Sanchez Covarrubias 222-1257 or malupita88@hotmail.com or mexonline.com\asilosanjuandiego.htm Asociación Down - Assistance to persons with Down’s Syndrome – Contact: Ana Eisenring at 224-9577.

Banderas Bay Women’s Shelter - Safe shelter for women & children victims of domestic violence. compassionforthefamily.org Becas Vallarta, A.C. – Provides scholarships to high school and university students. Tax-deductible in Mexico and USA. Polly Vicars at (322) 223-1371 or Buri Gray at (322) 221-5285.

CANICA - Centre for Children with Cancer. Provides aid for treatment and services including transportation to GDL. Contact Director, Evelia Basañes 322-123-5688.

Casa Hogar - A shelter for orphaned, abandoned, disadvantaged or vulnerable children.

Luz Aurora Arredondo at 221 1908, casahogar_maximocor nejo@ hotmail.com Centro Comunitario SETACGLBT – Services the GLBT community, including treatment and referrals, education, English classes, HIV testing and counseling. Paco Arjona 224-1974

Clinica de Rehabilitación Santa Barbara - Rehabilitation of the handicapped.

Contact: Laura Lopez Portillo Rodriguez at 224-2754.

COLINA Spay and Neuter Clinic - Free and by-donation sterilization clinic in Old Town. Only open Saturdays, Contact: cez@rogers. com or 322-104-6609 CompassionNet Impact – Transforming the lives of people living in chronic poverty. Job creation, education, emergency & more. Tax-deductible. Cell: (322) 133-7263 or ric@4compassion.org Corazon de Nina A safe, loving, home-environment for 40+ children and youth rescued from high-risk situations. Donations & volunteers always welcome!

Totally self-funded. www.fundacioncorazon.mx Cruz Roja (Red Cross) Handles hospital and emergency service in Vallarta. It is the only facility that is authorized to offer assistance to injured people on the street. Contact: 222-1533, 222-4973 Desayunos para los Niños de Vallarta A.C. Feeding programs, education programs, day care centers for single mothers.

2234311 or 22225 72 Discapacitados de Vallarta, A.C. (DIVAC) association of handicapped individuals dedicated to helping one another.

Ivan Applegate at 221-5153. more found online www.vallartatribune.com

Christ Church by the Sea Worldwide Anglican Communion

Services Sunday 10:00 a.m. Air-conditioned 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 Questions? Call Father Michael cell: 044-322-303-3916 e mail kpadresoy@outlook.com

www.ChristChurchByTheSea.org www.IglesiaCristoDelMar.org

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Crossword Solve

games

May 19 - 25, 2016 www.vallartatribune.com