233 - pvmcitypaper

ISSUE 233
SATURDAY 6
SATURDAY 6
APRIL, 2013
ISSUE 233 | APRIL 2013
FRIDAY 12
FRIDAY 12
2
Need to Know
considered poor manners to present the
check before it is requested, so when
you’re ready to leave, ask «La cuenta,
por favor» and your bill will be delivered
to you.
MONEY EXCHANGE: Although
you may have to wait in line for a few
minutes, remember that the banks will
give you a higher rate of exchange than
the exchange booths (caja de cambio).
Better yet, if you have a «bank card»,
withdraw funds from your account back
home. Try to avoid exchanging money at
your hotel. Traditionally, those offer the
worst rates.
I
f you’ve been meaning to find a little information on the region,
but never quite got around to it, we hope that the following will help.
Look at the map in this issue, you will note that PV (as the locals call
it) is on the west coast of Mexico, in the middle of the Bay of Banderas,
the largest bay in this country, that includes southern part of the state
of Nayarit to the north and the northern part of Jalisco to the south.
Thanks to its privileged location -sheltered by the Sierra Madre
mountains- the Bay is well protected against the hurricanes spawned
in the Pacific. Hurricane Kenna came close on October 25, 2002,
but actually touched down in San Blas, Nayarit, some 200 miles
north of PV. The town sits on the same parallel as the Hawaiian
Islands, thus the similarities in the climate of the two destinations.
AREA: 1,300 sq. kilometers
POPULATION: Approx. 325,000
inhabitants
CLIMATE: Tropical, humid, with
an average of 300 sunny days per year.
The temperature averages 28oC (82oF)
and the rainy season extends from late
June to early October.
allowed under certain circumstances
but fishing of any kind is prohibited.
Every year, the Bay receives the visit
of the humpback whales, dolphins and
manta rays in the winter. During the
summer, sea turtles, a protected species,
arrive to its shores to lay their eggs.
FAUNA: Nearby Sierra Vallejo
hosts a great variety of animal species
such as iguana, guacamaya, deer,
raccoon, etc.
ECONOMY: Local economy is
based mainly on tourism, construction
and to a lesser degree, on agriculture,
mainly tropical fruit such as mango,
papaya,
watermelon,
pineapple,
guanabana, cantaloupe and bananas.
SANCTUARIES:
Bahía
de
Banderas encloses two Marine
National Parks - Los Arcos and the
Marieta Islands - where diving is
CURRENCY: The Mexican Peso is
the legal currency in Mexico although
Canadian and American dollars are
widely accepted.
Index
BUSES: A system of urban buses
with different routes. Current fare is
$6.50 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 the town. Do not enter
a taxi without agreeing on the price with
the driver FIRST. If you are staying in a
hotel, you may want to check the rates
usually posted in the lobby. Also, if you
know which restaurant you want to go,
do not let the driver change your mind.
Many restaurateurs pay commissions to
taxi drivers and you may end up paying
more than you should, in a second-rate
establishment! There are 2 kinds of taxi
SATURDAY 6
cabs: those at the airport and the maritime
port are usually vans that can only be
boarded there. They have pre-fixed rates
per passenger. City cabs are yellow cars
that charge by the ride, not by passenger.
When you ask to go downtown, many
drivers let you off at the beginning of the
area, near Hidalgo Park. However, your
fare covers the ENTIRE central area, so
why walk 10 to 15 blocks to the main
plaza, the Church or the flea market?
Pick up a free map, and insist on your full
value from the driver! Note the number
of your taxi in case of any problem, or
if you forget something in the cab. Then
your hotel or travel rep can help you
check it out or lodge a complaint.
TIME ZONE: The entire State of
Jalisco is on Central Time, as is the
southern part of the State of Nayarit
- from San Blas in the north through
to the Ameca River, i.e.: San Blas,
San Pancho, Sayulita, Punta Mita, La
Cruz de Huanacaxtle, Bucerías, Nuevo
Vallarta, etc.)
TELEPHONE CALLS: Always
check on the cost of long distance
calls from your hotel room. Some
establishments charge as much as U.S.
$7.00 per minute!
CELL PHONES: Most cellular
phones from the U.S. and Canada may
be programmed for local use, through
Telcel and IUSAcell, the local carriers.
To dial cell to cell, use the prefix 322,
then the seven digit number of the
person you’re calling. Omit the prefix if
dialling a land line.
LOCAL CUSTOMS: Tipping
is usually 10%-15% of the bill at
restaurants and bars. Tip bellboys, taxis,
waiters, maids, etc. depending on the
service. Taking a siesta is a Mexican
tradition. Some businesses and offices
close from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., reopening
until 7 p.m. or later. In restaurants, it is
ISSUE 233 | APRIL 2013
FRIDAY 12
WHAT TO DO: Even if your allinclusive hotel is everything you ever
dreamed of, you should experience at
least a little of all that Vallarta has to
offer - it is truly a condensed version of
all that is Mexican and existed before
«Planned Tourist Resorts», such as
Cancun, Los Cabos and Ixtapa, were
developed. Millions have been spent to
ensure that the original “small town”
flavor is maintained downtown, in the
Old Town and on the South Side.
DRINKING WATER: The false
belief that a Mexican vacation must
inevitably lead to an encounter with
Moctezuma’s revenge is just that:
false. For the 17th year in a row, Puerto
Vallarta’s water has been awarded
a certification of purity for human
consumption. It is one of only two
cities in Mexico that can boast of such
accomplishment. True, 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.
On the other hand, most large hotels
have their own purification equipment
and most restaurants use purified water.
If you want to be doubly sure, you can
pick up purified bottled water just about
anywhere.
EXPORTING PETS: Canadian and
American tourists often fall in love with
one of the many stray dogs and cats in
Vallarta. Many would like to bring it
back with them, but believe that the laws
do not allow them to do so. Wrong. If
you would like to bring a cat or a dog
back home, call the local animal shelter
for more info: 293-3690.
LOCAL SIGHTSEEING: A good
beginning would be to take one of the City
Tours offered by the local tour agencies.
Before boarding, make sure you have a
map and take note of the places you want
to return to. Then venture off the beaten
path. Explore a little. Go farther than the
tour bus takes you. And don’t worry this is a safe place.
Sound Off
Their work is extremely professional, clean,
considerate and charming. Even when Tony
comes around for the money.
And by the way, their brother, Dr. Robles
Rojas, is a wonderful surgeon-gastroenterologist
who you can find visiting his patients at the
hospital at midnight. I suppose now I’m going
to get discounts on my Dr.’s bill. And OYE,
TU! by the way, I’m not Mexican.
Dear Editor,
I have lived full time in Vallarta for, oops…
(I almost told), and with the transient character
and repeat visitors to the area, I think it’s a good
thing to tell what services and products are
exciting or disappointing for others to know.
So there’s Artepil, a heavenly full service
spa, Ali’s Health & Rejuvenation Spa for her
reduction massage and facials, Uñas Norma for
nails, Hacienda Alemana for its consistency in
professional service, atmosphere, good food,
and Mike. El Set has a wonderful Sunday
brunch, the view of the ocean and warm
friendly service makes the experience a great
way to start the day, but if you’re afraid of
hanging out with Mexicans, beware, not only
are they the majority of local patrons, but they
also suffer from generational residency.
For a bad hair day, I use Noodle Head for my
curly hair, which can be purchased at Galerías
Vallarta, on the north hall near the movie house.
Geez, Henry V. who wrote a letter on your
#231 issue must think I’m raking in the pesos.
Anyway, the real purpose of my writing is to
highly recommend Herreria Hermanos Robles,
whose services we have used through the
years on our 2 properties (neither of the two is
rentals, disclosure for Hacienda).
Working together with our designs for chairs,
windows, table bases, doors, etc., they’ve
created exactly what we wanted.
SPRING
FORWARD!
3
Most of Mexico will
–finally- be setting its
clocks ahead at 2 a.m. this
Sunday night, April 7th.
Most of Canada and the
United States changed
to Daylight Saving time
three weeks ago, on
Sunday, March 17th.
Do not forget to set your
clocks one hour ahead
before going to bed on
Saturday night, especially
if you’re traveling!
Ana Maria Penabaz-Niederkorn
Dear Editor,
As a resident of PV for many years now, I’ve
become somewhat of an expert on spotting the
many scams and thievery that occur frequently
in our beloved town. I’d like to share an
observation I made at the airport when I flew
out recently.
We are all aware that we are supposed to
keep an attentive eye on our bags at airports.
For all of the Federales, State and local police
in the airport, ANYONE can enter and walk
around unnoticed downstairs and upstairs until
they reach the security checkpoint. I sat down
at Carl’s Jr. to have a bite to eat with my back
against the wall, facing out toward the upstairs
walkway, my carry-on sitting next to me. As I
bit into my burger two guys that appeared to
have no business being in the airport sat at the
table next to me and I could see one eyeing
my bag. I didn’t put two and two together until
they got up and separated, moving through the
restaurant. One guy posted up near a column,
keeping eye on his buddy who had moved to a
different table near some families. This went
on for about ten minutes and as I continued
to eat I kept my eye on the watchman. At
that moment, the two began to walk briskly
towards the escalators and I noticed that one
of the guys was carrying a backpack that he
didn’t have before. Both escalators were going
up so they quickly turned and made their way
toward the stairs using the kiosks for cover,
and I presume right out the front door in view
of all of the police.
While nobody around me seemed to notice
or make a fuss about their missing bag, I am
positive that these guys were up to no good
and have done this before. I do not expect the
airport to change entry policies any time soon
so this is a warning to all travelers to and from
PV. Keep a watchful eye on your carry-on in
our airport.
Regards,
Concerned Resident
SATURDAY 6
ISSUE 233 | APRIL 2013
FRIDAY 12
Dear Editor,
I read the letter from L.S. in the March 30
issue of the mirror, # 232.
To L.S.: I don’t know what your problem is
or what you expect from a restaurant but you
must have been thinking of an American fast
food place.
I went to Ernesto’s with my wife and
another couple. We found the place very nice
atmosphere-wise, were seated quite soon after
our arrival. Our waiter explained the drinks to
us, your overpriced drink was probably one
of “two for one”. Try counting next time. The
food was first class “Good Grub”.
I have checked with two other couples and
they also think it is a first class place with
great ribs. We all will go back and we won’t
miss you.
The old gringo C.Q.
Please go to next page for continuation...
4
Sound Off
Continued from previous page...
The WesMex regatta is always run by volunteers,
but in the past, it has been held in February or
March. This year, it has been moved to April at
the request of the Mexican Sailing associations in
order to ensure the best wind for the competitors.
This puts the VYC in a difficult position as so many
of our members and non-member volunteers have
returned north.
We appreciate any help you are willing to give.
Please contact:
Linda Green at [email protected] or me,
Janet Coburn, at [email protected]
Dear Editor,
This is in response to a letter to you concerning
the service at Ernesto’s Restaurant in your March
30th edition from L.S.: I do regret that your dining
experience was not to your satisfaction.
I have been experiencing the hospitality and
cuisine of Ernesto’s family for over 28 years. We
discovered the family hospitality when they were
serving dinner in their personal casa in the late 70s.
The following are my comments in regard to your
concerns.
I do not mean to be condescending but the Mexican
culture is different than in USA and Canada. Things
are much more relaxed. The evening meal is a time
for family and friends to enjoy without any time
frame for completion. The Ernestos are famous for
their hospitality, but if you are on a short time frame
it could be stressful for the guest. In other words,
relax, enjoy the environment and hospitality.
In regards to the cost of your Margarita: I would
be very surprised if you could find a drink in the
USA or Canada for less than 80 pesos.
Ernesto’s family is an honest and hard working
family, with many obligations like we all have, and
is very focused on providing an excellent dining
experience.
In regrard to your bill: Shame on you for your
inappropriate behavior. You are a guest in this
beautiful country. If you cannot relate to the caring
people and their culture, maybe Mexico is not a
country for you to visit.
Janet Coburn
Dear Editor,
I’ve been coming to Puerto Vallarta for 17 years.
It is a wonderful place to be. However, there are
individuals in the town that can easily spoil a good
time. In the past 17 years, my husband and I have
had our credit card counterfeited twice. Our credit
card company has always notified us right away of
any suspicious actions on the card. Our card was
immediately cancelled and a new one issued. Credit
card counterfeiting has been a big problem in Puerto
Vallarta.
However, this year, something more sinister
occurred. Our PIN number was somehow stolen
while we withdrew money from an ATM. Even
our bank in the States that issued the ATM card
cannot explain how someone got our PIN number
when we withdrew cash from the ATMS in PV. We
only used two ATM’s while we were in PV for the
last 2 months: the ATM on Olas Altas across from
The Palm and the ATM near La Playa liquor store,
also on Olas Altas. Information taken off a credit
card for the purpose of counterfeiting the card does
not include a PIN number. But when money is
withdrawn from an ATM, a PIN is typed into the
ATM manually.
I am home now in the States, trying to sort out
this problem. I am so sad that Puerto Vallarta is so
victimized by bad people. I hope the police will
look into this new kind of theft – stealing a PIN
while withdrawing cash from an ATM.
Alan
Dear Editor,
We need volunteer help needed for the WesMex
Regatta!
Preparation is underway for the WesMex
International Dinghy Regatta, happening April 1821 at the Vallarta Yacht Club (VYC). It is growing
each year, and this year we are expecting 200
Optimist, Lasers, 420s and Windsurfers to race. We
are in need of three things:
- Volunteers to man the race course. We will train!
- Dinghy RIBs, 10-14 feet in length, to rent as
coach boats (Yes you could make some money from
this!) The dinghies will be driven by the coach, who
will be very experienced in the use of motor boats.
- Small motor boats to use on the race course.
We are asking for the boat to be “volunteered” to
the regatta, and the event will pay for all gas and
cleaning after the event. If you could volunteer to
also be the skipper of the boat for the regatta, all the
better.
Marilyn Rocky
Little Silver, New Jersey
SATURDAY 6
ISSUE 233 | APRIL 2013
FRIDAY 12
Publisher / Editor:
Allyna Vineberg
[email protected]
Contributors:
Anna Reisman
Joe Harrington
Harriet Murray
Stan Gabruk
Krystal Frost
Giselle Belanger
Ronnie Bravo
Gil Gevins
Tommy Clarkson
Janie Albright Blank
Jerry Lafferty
Office: 223-1128
Graphic Designer:
Leo Robby R. R.
Webmaster:
PVMCITYPAPER Online Team
Cover photo
“Semana Santa
on Los Muertos Beach”
by Mary Ellis
PV Mirror es una publicación semanal.
Certificados de licitud de título y
contenido en tramite. Prohibida la
reproducción total o parcial de su
contenido, imágenes y/o fotografías sin
previa autorización por escrito del editor.
Within PV
New IFC Officers to be installed at April 14 brunch
by JANIE ALBRIGHT BLANK
T
he International Friendship Club (IFC) will host
a brunch at the Mi Pueblito Restaurant at the Los
Arcos Hotel on Olas Altos on Sunday April 14 at 11:00
a.m. The new officers, elected at the IFC Meeting on
March 12, will be introduced and installed for their
two year terms. Don’t miss this opportunity to greet
the new officers, thank those who have served, and
say goodbye to old friends as we wind down another
wonderful Puerto Vallarta season!
The IFC officers are all volunteers and consist
of the following: President, Dan Grippo; Vice
President- Administration, T.J. Hartung; Vice
President – Operations, Mandy MacLeay; Vice
President- Management & Facilities, Fred Forbes;
Vice- President- Events, Linda Mellor; Executive at
Large, Tom Hibbs; Treasurer, Michael Montagano;
Recording
Secretary,
Lynnette
Fairclough;
Corresponding Secretary, Ann Yusaitis.
The IFC was formed in 1985 and has been operating
continuously since that time here in Puerto Vallarta.
They are a registered charity in Mexico, similar
to a 501c3 in the United States, and subject to the
guidelines of incorporation. The IFC is comprised
of dues-paying members and was formed to help
with medical, educational, and emergency funding
needs for the people of the Puerto Vallarta area. Their
primary charity is their Cleft Palate Program and their
main fund-raising activity is their twice-weekly home
tours, which has been operating continuously since
that time here in Puerto Vallarta.
The Brunch will begin with a welcome mimosa,
followed by a buffet lunch, and free vodka drinks
with an assortment of juices. There will be live
entertainment. As is traditional with the end of season
event, there will be a raffle and a large number of nice
prizes. Brunch tickets can be purchased for 250 pesos
per person and the price includes your tip. They are
available at the IFC clubhouse or online using a credit
card or Paypal at www.ifcvallarta.com.
Dan Grippo
Mandy MacLeay
The International Friendship Club is a registered
charitable organization in Mexico listed as Club
Internacional de la Amistad de Puerto Vallarta A.C.
It is located at the northeast corner of the Rio Cuale
Bridge above the HSBC Bank, Colonia El Centro,
Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico, 48300.
Phone: 322-222-5466. Website: ifcvallarta.com.
Email: [email protected]
Fred Forbes
SATURDAY 6
ISSUE 233 | APRIL 2013
FRIDAY 12
5
6
Within PV
At the Saturday Market Co-op…
The
Saturday Market Co-op
is hop-hop-hoppin’ into spring!
A huge gracias to all of our
customers and have no fear - We
are open throughout the summer!
And we’re very proud of this.
This week’s featured vendor
was born in Helsinki, Finland,
but lived in several locations in
the United States before moving
permanently to Puerto Vallarta.
Lisa Love has always had a great
passion for hand-painted tiles,
especially the 15th century tiles
from Italy, Portugal, Spain and
the 16th century Delft tiles from
Holland. She used to purchase
tiles from Deruta, Italy, and the
Delft tiles from Amsterdam, and
then sell them on E-bay. She
learned how to make her own clay
tiles at a university in Arizona and
painted and fired them under the
tutelage of Beatrice Van Der Voort
of Fireworks at Los Mercados.
Her most popular products
are the reproductions of these
medieval tiles, but she also paints
(and sells like crazy!) whimsical
tiles of cats and dogs. As well,
she paints tiles for murals. The
terracotta tile is painted with
a white glaze. She then draws
on the design and paints with a
ceramic glaze. Bea then fires
the tile in her kiln. She loves it
when people bring a photo of
the pet and she paints them on a
tile, creating a loving memory.
Obviously, special orders are
welcome! As our featured vendor,
Lisa is offering a 10% discount
off of all of her merchandise.
We invite you to visit us every
Saturday to see the wide variety
of merchandise offered by our
vendors. And remember, as
always, come hungry!
The Saturday Market Co-op is
open every Saturday from 9 a.m.
to 1 p.m. at 127 Pulpito, in the
Romantic Zone on the south side
of town.
SATURDAY 6
Only two Malecon Sculpture Tours
remaining for the season!
Tuesday, April 16 , will be the last day for the Malecon Sculpture
th
Walking Tours for this season - which is the seventh year for this free tour.
As has been the case every Tuesday morning at 9:30 since this season’s tours
started on November 15th, no reservations are necessary and one must only
show up at the Millennium sculpture next to the Hotel Rosita at the north end
of the Malecon.
The tour was created by and is guided by Galeria Pacifico’s owner, Gary
Thompson, who has 34 years’ experience in the Vallarta art scene and who
knows personally many of the artists who created the sculptures on the tour.
This includes Mathis Lidice, the nom de plume of Fernando Baños, who
created and talks about the first sculpture on the tour, Millennium. At this
sculpture chairs are provided by the Marcello Alcaraz of the Hotel Rosita,
and free handouts with information on the sculptures are made available by
Sandra Cesca of Learn Vallarta. Other information sheets about the Huichol
Indians and their artistic symbols that have been recreated in pebbles in the
pavement of the new Malecon are provided by Kevin Simpson of the Peyote
People and Colectika Galleries. He also walks along during the first half of
the tour explaining each symbol encountered along the way.
Although the tour lasts around two hours in total, Thompson looks for
opportunities for people to sit in the shade near each sculpture whenever
possible. The tour ends at Galeria Pacifico’s second floor location at 174
Aldama street.
Guests are given complimentary beverages and the opportunity to meet
and talk to Jim Demetro, the artist who created the “Dancers of Vallarta”
sculpture on the extension of the Malecon and the “Woman Washing
Clothes” in front of the Molino de Agua Condominiums. Jim talks about
his creations and shows the model for the new sculpture, currently known
as the “Donkey Project”, which he is preparing to donate to Puerto Vallarta.
Although the tour is free, a no pressure opportunity is given to make a
donation to Vallarta’s Biblioteca Los Mangos Public Library, an institution
also serving as a community center but receiving absolutely no funding from
any branch of the government, and thus heavily dependant on donations and
other fund raising efforts.
Donations generated by the Malecon Sculpture Tour amounted to around
$2,700. US Dollars for the Biblioteca Los Mangos last season. More
information on the tour may be obtained at www.GaleriaPacifico.com, by
calling 222-1982, or by visiting the gallery from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM,
Monday through Saturday.
ISSUE 233 | APRIL 2013
FRIDAY 12
Within PV
First Chili Cook-Off a Sizzling Success
7
Update on current United States Immigration Reform 2013
(Note: this has nothing to do with Mexico immigration changes in visa status.)
by JERRY LAFFERTY
The United States Congress and President Obama are urging Immigration
Last
Saturday’s chili cook-off
sponsored jointly by American Legion
and Navy League attracted an overflow
crowd of more than 400 happy patrons
who consumed in excess of 60 gallons
of chili, ranging from mild to spicy
hot. The setting at El Rio Bar and
Grill on the banks of the beautiful
Cuale River, combined with a typical
PV sunny day and toe-tapping music
made this a charity event that can
only grow in popularity in coming
years. Net proceeds this year will be
split among three children’s charities
– Busca Un Amigo, Corazon de Niña
and Toys for Tots.
Seventeen entries in a “Best Chili
Contest” came from local restaurants
and individuals. Voting by the 400
patrons produced a 1st place “Popular
Choice” trophy for Piratas MC. 2nd
place went to the American Legion
and 3rd place to Navy League. In
addition, three top local chefs, Nacho
Cadena of La Leche Restaurant; Fred
Ruiz, Executive Chef of Marriott
CasaMagna Resort and Spa; and Gary
Beck, Food Critic presented their
“Best Chili Award” to Captain Don’s.
Truth be told, all 17 entries were
worthy of trophies.
Musical entertainment was provided
throughout the day. A wonderful
mariachi band got the crowd off to a
festive mood, followed by the Nacho
Daddy band playing a broad range of
swinging sounds. To cap off the day,
there was a surprise appearance by
Patsy Cline (aka Mikki Prost) who
sang many of Patsy’s top hits from the
50’s.
Special thanks are in order for
Dennis Rike and his team from
American Legion, and Jorge and
Cynthia McManus and their team
from Navy League. They tell us to
look for a repeat of this extremely
successful event next year.
reform in the U.S. Obama has already outlined his position and goals. The
House of Representatives and the Senate have committees studying the issue.
There seems to be general agreement that reform is critical.
But each side is mandating certain “necessary” components and it is
questionable whether any relevant reform will pass. In fact, the Senate’s
“Gang of Eight” left D.C. for a two-week break March 22 with a deal on
immigration reform in limbo, stalled by a fight between Big Labor and Big
Business. Democrats Abroad are holding a community meeting to help
people understand the issues involved and what steps may be necessary to
get meaningful legislation passed. Everyone is invited to attend.
The meeting will be held at the International Friendship Club located at
Edificio Parian del Puente #13, Calle Libertad corner of Miramar, downtown
PV. It begins at 7:30 p.m. with a panel presentation followed up by discussion
and audience participation.
Moderator: Marie O’Connor, Vice President Democrats Abroad. An
overview of current US immigration policy and the number of undocumented
people estimated to be in the U.S.
Historical perspective. Dan Grippo, noted local historian. Emphasis on the
cycles and changes in US policy. (“Yes, you are welcome / No, you are not.”)
Mexican perspective - Luis Melgoza, a citizen of both Mexican and the
US. His experience working for the Mexican Embassy when living in the
U.S., plus observations on reform.
Proposals before Congress – John Wilson-Bugbee, Democrats Abroad
board member heading up a special task force on immigration issues in
the U.S. Who are the key players? What appear to be the major stumbling
blocks?
The panel will be followed by general discussion and it is open to anyone
who would like to come.
This meeting is sponsored by the Costa Banderas Democrats Abroad.
Everyone is welcome to attend. The time is NOW to inform ourselves and
ACT to get the U.S. Congress to pass meaningful Immigration Reform in the
United States.
Community meeting, 7:30 p.m.
Thursday, April 11, 2013,
IFC Clubhouse
Update on current United States Immigration Reform 2013
(Note this has nothing to do with Mexico changes in visa status.)
At the International Friendship Club.
Calle Libertad Corner Miramar, P.V.
Panel presentation: Maria O’Connor, Dan Grippo, Luis Melgoza,
John Wilson-Bugbee followed by discussion
SATURDAY 6
ISSUE 233 | APRIL 2013
FRIDAY 12
8
Within PV
Orgullo - Vallarta - Pride 2013
www.GayPV.mx
Local businesses are throwing their
growing support behind the proposed pride
parade march and open air music event, 2 of
the many ideas being submitted to the city
for review.
The pride weekend will offer a diversity
of activities to draw both national and
international tourism to the beach destination
during what is generally considered one of
the best months to visit the pacific coast city.
Organizers are confident the city will back
the event as organizers continue to canvass
local businesses to support and participate
in the celebratory 2 day community event.
Proposals to the city may include a beach
volley ball competition, a unified theme and
offers at participating LGBT bars and clubs
in the Romantic Zone, LGBT-friendly tour
packages and fundraising for local not-for-profit
organizations.
“The event is planned as an invitation to all
Vallarta residents and visitors to celebrate the
rich cultural and social diversity that makes
Vallarta unique,” explained Bill Hevener during
a telephone interview.
When questioned on the appropriateness of
the event during the memorial day weekend
and the city’s anniversary festivals, Christian
Gutierrez referenced the contribution of the
LGBT community in all areas of Vallarta civic
life including local and national politics, arts and
culture, education and social rights.
“Celebrating “Orgullo – Vallarta - Pride 2013”
during the Memorial Day weekend and Vallarta’s
Fiestas de Mayo will highlight the continuing
contribution of the LGBT community (both
local and visitor) to the economic success and
social vibrancy of the city,” he said.
“The event will not only increase tourism and
celebrate diversity, but promote tolerance and
unity to the many communities that make up
Bahia de Banderas,” added Hevener.
The impact of a successful pride event on the
local economy is generating much support from
SATURDAY 6
ISSUE 233 | APRIL 2013
FRIDAY 12
local business. According the organizers,
the economic windfall could reach into
the millions of dollars if the event gathers
government and corporate sponsorship.
The event has been timed to coincide
with the hugely popular foodie event,
Restaurant Week.
Organizers point to the success of
pride events in Palm Springs where data
reveals the direct economic benefit from
the city may have exceeded a record
$14.1 million USD in 2011. The event
drew record LGBT visitors to the city,
with 72% of attendees reporting to have
travelled from outside the city to the
event. (Source http://bit.ly/YKm8eK)
For more information or to support the event,
please contact [email protected]
GayPV is Puerto Vallarta’s favorite gay
magazine featuring events, reviews, lifestyle,
travel and entertainment news.
It is the ultimate LGBT travel directory and
the only gay publication / directory / magazine
in Vallarta to have an official relationship with
the Puerto Vallarta Convention and Visitors
Bureau in promoting LGBT tourism to Puerto
Vallarta. The free publication is available at more
than one hundred locations and has the largest
individual print run with the widest national and
international distribution of any gay publication
in Mexico.
Within PV
9
Second pet “Adopton” big success
All the dogs from the Centro de Acopio Animal (the local
pound) as well as a good number of cats from groups and
associations participating in the second edition of Adoptón
Puerto Vallarta found furever homes at last week’s event.
This exceeded the organizers’ expectations.
PuRR Project, SPCA de PV, PV Animal, AngeliCat, La
Experiencia and the Acopio were delighted with the results
that were even higher than those of the first Adopton held in
February, when 16 pets were adopted. This one found homes
for 21.
The event began at 9 o’clock in the morning alongside City
Hall by the main square, with numerous volunteers present
to help in the logistics.
Children were given coloring books that explained the
responsibilities of pet owners. The Impulso de Aguila
organization brought pet beds made by handicapped people
who recycled items to give them new purpose.
Visitors learned how the various groups functioned, mostly
to stop the proliferation of unwanted dog and cat pregnancies
through sterilizations offered at no charge.
Veterinarian Guadalupe Dávalos Villaseñor, head of the
Centro de Acopio Animal de Puerto Vallarta, explained
that every adoptive “parent” was required to give all their
personal information so that there could be a follow-up of all
the adoptees. “We don’t want to simply get rid of the animals.
We want to know that they are going to responsible owners.
The pets are all sterilized already, to break the reproduction
cycle that has caused the overpopulation of street dogs and
cats.”
According to the doctor, it is only through education,
massive sterilizations and adoptions that we will see real
change in the situation. “In Argentina, they managed to
eradicate the problem in just five years, and that’s without
massive killings of animals.”
(Photos by AngeliCat)
SATURDAY 6
ISSUE 233 | APRIL 2013
FRIDAY 12
10
Marina Vallarta
Marina Vallarta’s Festival 2013
F
eatured
in
the
National
Geographic magazine as one of the
world’s most beautiful marinas, its
distinct lighthouse offers awesome
views from its vantage height. Proud
yachts look their best in a rich and
mighty site that welcomes tourists
and townspeople alike.
Restaurants are full of guests and
action. Prices do not matter much.
Gatherings are joined by romantic
trios or rich-sounding mariachis,
maybe a sax, in the background or
a tango joined by the aroma of an
appetizing speciality.
On Wednesdays – 7 p.m.
Filma13 Marina Vallarta is a film
projection space with a cultural goal.
Promoted by Filma13 and the
Residents’ Association of Marina
Vallarta, it offers something every
Wednesday at 7 p.m.
There is no entrance fee and the
films are for the entire family to
enjoy. Everyone is cordially invited.
We are at the end of Calle Mastil.
You can check out Filma13’s page
on Facebook, where you will find
information on the showings, the
workshops and the various other
activities it offers.
On Fridays
All art produces an upbeat,
motivating, passionate strength,
sometimes something melancholic
from our own human nature. The
dream, the acute or silent suffering
expressed by the artist in today’s
world, is characterized by the
convincing effect of light, textures,
the call to feelings and emotions. Art,
whatever its means, provides the artist
with a chance to rethink its meaning
and reaffirm its cultural importance
SATURDAY 6
anywhere and anytime on earth; it
may represent reality, abstraction,
impression or stylistic distortion.
What strange situations is the artist
experiencing? No one knows, maybe
not even him/herself, but it is there,
on the canvas, on wood or a piece of
paper, sold or exchanged for whatever
allows him/her to survive. A human
being telling his/her story with art.
They are present every Friday on
Marina Vallarta’s sophisticated and
elegant Malecon (boardwalk).
Visitors can admire and acquire
works of art at unheard of prices, hard
to match by renowned galleries.
Renowned artists are also found,
as well as good quality new artists.
Among them: sculptor Octavio
González Gutiérrez, creator of our
whale and patron of this event,
Yolanda Romero, José Castro, Beatriz
Narváez, Ricardo Luèvano, Eduardo
Rincón-Gallardo, Olga Infante, Angie
Oblitas, Karlos Díaz, Jorge Díaz,
Leopoldo García, Ana María Briones,
Marina Narváez and Hilda Anaya.
On Saturdays – 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Luz Graciela Camarena Santa,
organizer and coordinator of dance
evening in Puerto Vallarta, has taken
on the praiseworthy task of bringing
dancing to Marina Vallarta. Her goal
is for everyone to set stress aside as
dance is an art form where the body’s
movement is used to the rhythm of
any musical sound.
Dancing is a social interaction,
intended as entertainment, a form
of communication without using
words, where dancers express their
feelings and emotions through their
movements.
ISSUE 233 | APRIL 2013
FRIDAY 12
In this form of art, one can dance
alone or with a varied number of
others, in pairs or in groups, all
depending on the dance itself.
Dancing has developed through time
in the different cultures, each with its
own characteristics, ex.: disco, hip-hop,
electronics, classical and modern ballet,
salsa, rock, Mexican danzón, and of
course, tango, ranchera music, etc.
But we’re not going to depend
on professionals, we’re just going
to enjoy the moment, the beautiful
Marina and its sumptuous yachts,
all part of our paradise and the good
company all dancing requires.
The invitation is extended to all our
visitors, whatever their age or culture.
People are often shy to express their
emotions by this means, but “Lucy”
–as she’s know by most Vallartansassures us that dancing is the cure-all
for body and spirit.
Though she’s no spring chicken
herself, she’s young at heart and
spirit, and will welcome one and all
every Saturday from 6:30 to 9:30 next
to the Marina Golf Condominiums.
And she adds that if you still don’t
want to get up and dance, you can
always watch those who do, in the
comfortable chairs provided along
this picturesque site, as you see the
joy in those who participate in the
various dances - Rock & Roll, swing,
salsa, tropical, etc.
So… let’s go! Come on over, join
us, get up and dance!
(Source: Hilda Anaya Sotelo & Ana
Maria Briones)
Beyond PV
Mexico demands Sotheby’s halts auction
of pre-Columbian artifacts
Mexico’s Alsea buys out
local Starbucks operation
M
EXICO CITY: Mexican company
Alsea - the largest fast food operator in
Latin America - said on Monday it had
bought out the Mexican subsidiary of
US mega-coffee chain Starbucks.
“As a result of the March 27, 2013
transaction, Starbucks has agreed to
provide Alsea 100 per cent ownership
of the Mexico business” for a period
that could be extended to 2037, the
company said in a statement.
Alsea did not disclose the terms
of the deal, but said it included an
expansion plan under which the
company will open 50 new Starbucks
stores a year for the next five years,
adding to the 367 already in the
Central American country.
The two companies will then “review
the continuation of a contractual
expansion plan,” the statement said.
Alsea is the leading restaurant
company in Latin America, with 1,421
stores in Mexico, Argentina, Chile and
Colombia from its fast food and casual
dining chains.
(Source: www.channelnewsasia.com
Photo by AFP/Omar Torres)
Mexico sees strong peso, 4% growth in 2014
MEXICO CITY: Mexico’s Treasury Department says the peso will end
the year with an average exchange rate of around 12.5 to $1, following
recent gains.
The department had originally predicted an average rate of 12.9 to $1
when it drew up the 2013 budget last year, but the peso has gained against
the U.S. dollar. The exchange rate stood at 12.34 to $1 last Monday.
The department said it is estimating economic growth of 4 percent for
2014, a bit above the projected 3.5 percent growth rate for 2013. It also
predicted continued strength for the Mexican currency in 2014, with an
average exchange rate of 12.6 to $1. (Source: www.charlotteobserver.com)
SATURDAY 6
11
Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History has demanded
Sotheby’s withdraw from sale 51 pieces of the Barbier-Mueller Collection
of Pre-Columbian Art.
Sotheby’s will auction the 300-piece Barbier-Mueller Collection of PreColumbian Art in Paris on Mexico has demanded Sotheby’s withdraw from
auction 51 pre-Columbian Mexican artifacts.
The National Institute of Anthropology and History said in a statement last
Wednesday it had contacted the French foreign ministry seeking assistance
to halt the auction scheduled in Paris for last Friday and Saturday.
Experts analyzed the pieces contained in the 300-piece Barbier-Mueller
Collection of Pre-Columbian Art and determined that 51 of the 130 objects
advertised as being from Mexico were archeological artifacts that belong to
Mexico, El Universal reported.
“The rest are recently manufactured handicrafts,” the institute said in the
statement, adding it had asked Sotheby’s to withdraw the pieces from sale.
But Sophie Dufresne, a spokeswoman for Sotheby’s in Paris, told the
Associated Press that the sale “is going forward as planned.”
Could this spark another diplomatic spat between the two countries?
(Source: www.globalpost.com)
New world strategy aims to eradicate polio by 2018
WASHINGTON (AP) — Health
authorities are finalizing a plan to end
most cases of polio by late next year
and eradicate the disease by 2018 —
if they can raise enough money to
finish the work.
The six-year global strategy
will cost $5.5 billion, and require
increasing security for vaccine
workers who have come under attack
in hard-hit countries.
ISSUE 233 | APRIL 2013
FRIDAY 12
But with polio cases at a historic
low — 223 cases last year — officials
with the World Health Organization,
Gates Foundation and other poliofighting groups said Tuesday there is
a chance of success. The disease was
widespread in 125 countries back
in 1988 when the global polio fight
began. Today, it remains endemic
in just three: Pakistan, Nigeria and
Afghanistan. (Source: www.usatoday.com)
The 7 Arts
12
by JOE HARRINGTON
Olympus Has Fallen
H
alfway through this movie I
started trying to remember any other
flick that had a body bag count as
high. I think Die Hard 2 chalked up
over 200 bad guys killed. And all
that carnage was created with Bruce
Willis wielding only a handgun and
his rivals all packing AK-47s or Uzis.
Same thing here, good guy whacks
legions of rebel North Koreans as they
return fire with thousands of bullets
that hit everything except our hero.
If I had to sum up this movie in one
word it would be: BS.
Using the classic Hollywood pitch
of 25 words or less it would be 25
BS’s in a row. The whole movie is an
excuse to desecrate a national symbol
– the White House. That residence of
our leader is pummeled with an assault
from the ground and the air.
When I was younger, thirty years
or so ago, I was a small plane pilot,
with around 2,000 hours of airtime.
Way back then, decades before 9/11,
there were, as there is now, restricted
airspace that would scramble
warplanes.
SATURDAY 6
One day my instructor and I decided
to do a radar-assisted approach to
Beale Air Force Base in Northern
California. My instructor thought I
had contacted and gotten permission;
I thought he had.
So we come in at eight hundred feet,
me wearing a hood and only studying
the instruments and the next thing I
know there are two jets on either side
of our little Cessna.
We landed, were taken into custody,
and interrogated. Keep in mind, this
was twenty years before 9/11.
In the beginning of this ridiculous
film, a four-prop plane approaches
Washington D.C. from thirty miles to
the south. Two Air Force jets show up
and signal it to cease and desist. The
prop plane opens fire and destroys
both jets.
Huh? Actually one “Huh?” is not
enough. Factor in another two dozen.
That plane would have been torched.
One of those military jets might have
come alongside to signal turn around,
but not both. One would have been
dead astern, pilot’s finger on the red
button, itching to fire a heat-seeking
missile up the backside of that lethal
intruder.
And from then on this piece of
junk-wasting celluloid only gets more
ridiculous. I am suppose to turn off
my brain and its logical functioning so
much that I would accept that armed
Koreans would be allowed to take a
ride 120 feet below the surface of the
White House and enter the command
center of all nuclear weapons under
the U.S. of A.’s control?
ISSUE 233 | APRIL 2013
FRIDAY 12
Make that “BS and Huh?” factored
by 50. And BS is not a strong enough
word, but this is a family newspaper.
The only logical line of dialogue in
the whole thing is when the president,
now a prisoner of the terrorists, looks
at the TV screen connected to the
Pentagon and says, “Don’t negotiate.”
Acting President at this moment
is Speaker of the House Morgan
Freeman. As an aside, and before
I forget, this fine actor is given a
ridiculously low onscreen time of
under ten minutes. Morgan, of course,
ignores the leader of the free world’s
order to not negotiate and decides to
pull out all our 28,000 troops in South
Korea. If that’s not bad enough, he
also pulls back our war fleet keeping
the peace off of North Korea.
I guess Morgan thought he heard,
“Negotiate.”
Movies like this make me ill.
Violence is a part of storytelling –
meaning the arc of conflict, crisis,
resolution - all legitimate in creating
drama. Think Macbeth – as an aside,
that fantastic play had a body bag
count of eight.
Movies like Olympus Has Fallen
cater to the teenage boy sect. They
have never been under fire, they have
never worn a uniform, they have no
conception of the meaning of being
wounded or killed. They eat popcorn
and cheer as the explosions toss bodies
about like rag dolls.
This movie received an unbelievable
approval rating of 47% - which means
to me that half the critics in the country
have watched too many movies and
have become brain dead.
Recommendation: rent Death
Wish, at least Charles Bronson had a
clear cut motive to go out and whack
muggers.
Joe is an internationally published
author and a documentary film maker.
He can be reached with suggestions
or criticism at JoeMovieMadness@
YAhoo.com. Artwork by Bob Crabb.
The 7 Arts
13
About
Rodo Padilla…
T
he Rodo Padilla Gallery in Puerto Vallarta
contains the best and most selected sculptures he
has. At this gallery you can find little figurines
based on the exploration of geometric shapes. They
talk about the daily lives of the characters and
their joy. Also you can find Rodo’s limited edition
sculptures, each with a certificate of authenticity
signed by him. Traditional sculpture is the line that
reflects the Mexican interior, always optimistic and
hardworking. You can find unique women with
broad hips highlighting their beauty and coquetry.
In his latest works, Rodo Padilla is inspired by
his children and how -now that they are no longer
children but adolescents and adults- his values and
attitudes have begun to disappear. The main purpose
of these sculptures is to relate the time and space
of these two stages and to fuse them together, using
new techniques and contemporary characters.
Rodo Padilla is one of the most renowned
sculptors in high temperature ceramic (stoneware)
in Mexico. Some of his best known pieces are also
made in bronze.
He proudly lives and works in his town of birth
Tlaquepaque, Jalisco, Mexico. He lived all his life
among pottery and crafts in the workshop of his
father and he graduated in Chemical Engineering
from the University of Guadalajara. He majored in
ceramic materials and design, in Toki and Nagoya,
Japan, in addition to design courses in Buenos Aires,
Argentina and in Faenza, Italy.
Rodo Padilla has been awarded several prizes in
ceramic design, highlighting First Places in 1992,
2000, 2003 and 2007 in the National Ceramics
Award.
He also designed several sculptures in ceramic
and bronze representing the fundamental rights
of children, at the “Trompo Mágico” Museum
of Guadalajara, Jalisco. He is currently the
Chairman of the National Ceramics Award and was
named Ambassador of the PanAmerican Games
Guadalajara 2011.
SATURDAY 6
ISSUE 233 | APRIL 2013
FRIDAY 12
His latest exhibition “Of the Children is the
Kingdom of Heaven” was presented at the
Hospicio Cabañas, the best place for expositions in
Guadalajara in 2012.
The Rodo Padilla Gallery is located at 178 Mina,
just 2 blocks from the main square. Tel.: 222-5984.
14
Map
SATURDAY 6
ISSUE 233 | APRIL 2013
FRIDAY 12
Map
SATURDAY 6
ISSUE 233 | APRIL 2013
15
FRIDAY 12
The 7 Arts
16
After a sold out performance on March 5th, Mikki Prost
is returning on April 16th for a one night performance.
Patsy is coming back!
T
his show will bring new songs not heard
in previous Patsy Cline performances in Puerto
Vallarta. The bountiful energy and clear voice
that Mikki brings to the stage highlights the
iconic Patsy Cline sound.
“The one thing I wanted to do more than
anything else was sing country music.”
– Patsy Cline and Mikki Prost
Born Virginia Patterson Hensley on September
8, 1932, in Winchester, Virginia, country music
legend Patsy Cline helped break down the
gender barrier in this musical genre. Known for
her smooth-sounding, emotive voice, she started
performing at a young age. She taught herself
to play piano and became interested in country
music.
After a few earlier attempts to get her career
started, Patsy got a recording contact in the
mid-1950s. This led to the release of one of her
greatest hits, “Walkin’ After Midnight.” Sales
of the song didn't take off until she performed
it on a television talent show in 1957. After her
appearance on Arthur Godfrey’s Talent Scouts,
the song hit the country and pop charts.
In the early 1960s, Patsy Cline joined the cast
of the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee a true sign of her place in country music.
Now with Decca Records, she released some
of her greatest hits. “I Fall to Pieces” hit the top
of the country charts and “Crazy” did almost as
well. Outspoken, she developed a bit of tough
persona. Still, Cline took the time to help other
female performers, such as Loretta Lynn, with
their careers.
Patsy was married to Gerald Cline for a time
in the mid-1950s, but the union was short-lived.
She then married Charlie Dick in 1957 and
together they had two children, Julia and Allen
Randolph.
Patsy Cline’s own career was all too brief.
She died on March 5, 1963, in a plane crash.
After her death, the song “Sweet Dreams” was
released and became a hit. Considering one
of country music’s greatest vocalists, she was
inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame
in 1973. Her life became the subject of the 1985
film, Sweet Dreams, starring Jessica Lange. Her
music remains popular today with fans around
the world. In Puerto Vallarta, her sound is
exemplified by the talented Mikki Prost who is
a great admirer of not only her sound but Patsy
as a woman.
Don’t miss this show at Boutique Theatre on
Tuesday, April 16th at 8 p.m.! Tickets $250 at the
usual places.
“Viva Puerto Vallarta” Fiesta!
On Wednesday, April 10 , from 7 to 11 p.m., Jalisco’s Tourism
th
Board, PV’s Tourism Trust, the Municipal Tourism Board, and the
Cultural Institute will hold a Mexican Fiesta - “Viva Puerto Vallarta”
- every 15 days in Lazaro Cardenas Park in the Romantic Zone on
the south side of town.
During the events, some illustrations of Frida Kahlo’s work by
Adriana Quinto will be exhibited, along with presentations by the
Xiutla Folkloric Ballet, directed by professor Enrique Barrios.
In addition, there will be a great variety of gastronomical samples
to enrich the evening, with 16 local restaurants offering dishes
priced between $40 and $60 pesos.
SATURDAY 6
ISSUE 233 | APRIL 2013
FRIDAY 12
Vallarta Voices
by ANNA REISMAN
W
hile my friends and I were
having lunch at Salud last Thursday
(Easter Thursday to be exact), we
marveled at the number of big vans
and trucks driving right up Olas Altas,
despite the sign at the intersection
clearly showing that they could not
do that as it is a one-way north. As
expected, this caused major problems
with all the cars coming the other
way. When we were returning home,
driving up Rodolfo Gomez, I told a
policeman who was there about the
recurring problem at the intersection
below, to which he responded,
laughing, “Señora, those people don’t
see. I could put a big sign right in
the middle of the road that said ‘Do
not enter’ and they’ll still find a way
around it and keep going. That’s
Mexico for you.” I know that the
entire police force is on 24/7 duty
these weeks, so I’m sure they aren’t
numerous enough to post one of their
own at every intersection with oneway streets, but still…
And, as usual, driving along the
southbound highway to deliver the
papers last Friday was an experience
on its own. I believe there were more
cars parked along the non-existing
shoulders on both sides of the road
than any year in the past. The beaches
were full. We watched some folks
trying to make their way down the
quasi-cliffs to reach the waterfront.
Would it be very expensive to build
stairs of some kind leading to what
are –by law- public beaches? Or at
least clear a path down every mile or
so? Just askin’…
It’s also the first year that we saw
a policeman prohibiting cars from
going down the street leading to the
Blue Chairs, explaining to the drivers
that there was absolutely not one
parking spot left there…
I’m glad. That means that more
and more Mexicans are visiting us
and that’s a good thing, especially
if they tell their friends back home
what a wonderful vacation they had
in PV. After all, it is the national
tourism that keeps this town going
during the summer months.
Good news from our friend and
fellow contributor Gil Gevins, author
of “Slime and Punishment”:
On April 6th and 7th, you can
download a free copy of
this latest book of his on
Amazon Kindle. “The
point of the giveaway
is that you read the
book, enjoy it, send in
a review to Amazon,
and recommend it
to friends. It’s tough
getting
people’s
attention these days
with millions of books
out there, so I really need
folks to chip in and help
spread the word. Enjoy the
book. Thanks,” says Gil.
Gil and his lovely wife Lucy
are getting ready to take off for their
yearly shopping trip around this
amazing country, which made me
think... perhaps they could get in
touch with the owners of the shop
where I bought my poor termiteridden, kitty cat scratched Don
Quixote. Perhaps they could see if
I could get a clone shipped to me.
So I asked, and they did it! When I
went to Lucy’s CuCu Cabana to drop
off the deposit, there was another
customer there who had just ordered
something to be custom-made for her
too. We are so lucky to have people
like Gil and Lucy here! Those of us
who’ve been living here for over a
decade remember that they were the
SATURDAY 6
17
ones to found the very first animal
protection association in Puerto
Vallarta, the APA.
We received a really nice email
from the folks at Pizza Bella Napoli.
It read, “Hola, we read the article
by Anna Reisman in issue 232. She
said she came to look for us but we
were closed. We would love to get
in touch with her or specify through
this mail our hours. We are closed on
Monday and we open from Tuesday
to Sunday from 3 to 11:30 p.m. Our
phone number is 223-8374 or (322)
105-2335. I am Agostino di Donna,
one of the owners. Please get back to
us, we wish for no misunderstanding,
we ARE OPEN and would love to
receive Anna and have her try our
pizzas and home made pastas.”
You can be sure I will do
that, especially the thin crust
pizzas everyone is raving
about!
Now that the most
hectic part of the Easter
holidays has passed, we
who have been cocooning
for the last little while can
come out again. It’s as
if someone has thrown a
switch, not only regarding
traffic, but especially with
regard to …the weather!
Did you all notice how it
suddenly got HOT? My outdoor
thermometer (in the shade) has been
hovering around the 35oC line in the
afternoons, since the last week of
March. That’s early for Vallarta, and
I don’t know what it augurs for the
summer to come.
Which makes me wonder about
the Christmas tree that’s been drying
out at the corner of our street, by the
piles of garbage, for the last three
months or so. Maybe the “sanitary
engineers” are just waiting for all
the brown needles to fall off before
picking it up…
A lady called Eileen posted the
following on Gary Beck’s Yahoo!
group ( P u e r t o _ Va l l a r t a _ O l d To w n _
[email protected])
ISSUE 233 | APRIL 2013
FRIDAY 12
I thought you might enjoy it as much
as I did, so I’m sharing it with you:
“Overworked phrases
in Mexico
Why are they doing this now?
This makes no sense.
It smells weird.
Why is this taking so long?
Just stop asking “why”.
There’s better ways to do this.
What’s up with all the tiny dogs?
My internet is down.
My cell phone is out of minutes.
Why are there all these empty buses?
I waited all day and the guy
never showed up.
What are those explosions?
Which holiday is this?
I don’t know my phone number.
I don’t know how to check
my voice mail.
What happened to Rizo’s?”
And Gary also reminded us about
the Banderas Bay Jazz Allstars
whose “Friday, April 12th gig at our
wonderful Paradise Community
Center on Pulpito will be the finale
of their thunderous season bringing
down the house and giving so many
of us wide smiles. So, best buy your
tickets soon since their shows are
always SRO! Tickets are available
at the Saturday Co-Op Market. Good
acoustics, good lighting and food
/ beverages are available too, plus
sitting ceiling-covered with fans in
the open air. This is a remarkable
venue for concerts. Bring your family
and friends!
The group has been performing
this high season from PV to San
Pancho. Let’s give them a welldeserved send off for the summer and
await with bated breath their return
to the stage in the fall, and hopefully
a CD recorded as well.” Hear, hear!
Thank you, Gary.
I think I’m running out of space,
so, hasta la proxima vez, I’ll just
wish you a wonderful week, filled
with love. May your Mirror always
reflect a happy, healthy you.
[email protected]
18
Restaurant Week 2013
participants announced
The
9th edition of the wellestablished culinary festival will
once again transform Puerto Vallarta
into a dining destination of choice
during the second half of May, with
35 participating restaurants, including
seven for the first time.
Established in 2005 by Vallarta
Lifestyles
Publishing
Group,
Restaurant Week is a two-week event,
from May 15 - 31, during which select
Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit
restaurants present special 3-course
menus - with 3 options per course - at
fixed, reduced prices.
The complete list of Restaurant Week
2013 participants is available at http://
virtualvallarta.com/puertovallarta/
news/local/restaurant-week-2013participants-announced.shtml
You will note that some will be
charging $189. Pesos per person, while
others will offer their menus at $299.
Pesos p/p.
Prices do not include tips or
beverages. A complete menu guide will
be available online no later than April
10th.
Among the ones who will charge
$189. Pesos are Archie’s Wok,
Barcelona Tapas, Coco’s Kitchen,
Coco Tropical, El Arrayán and Vitea.
And among those with $299. Peso
menus, you will find Hacienda San
Angel Gourmet, Taste @ Casa Cupula
and of course, Trio.
Good Bites
Win dinner at Vallarta’s
“Best Asian Restaurant”
I
f the walls could talk, the stories
they would tell…
We have seen many in our 26
years of serving you: marriage
proposals, fatal attractions, dream
house purchases, family reunions;
that glass of red wine accidentally
served on your new shirt rather than
on the table; our logo exquisitely
colored at the table by local artists…
there is no end to the stories!
And your story? Now, you can
win dinner for 4 or other prizes by
simply posting a story or anecdote
of your most memorable time spent
at Archie’s Wok. It is easy: post
you story then share it with your
FB friends… simply click “share”
after you post your story and ask
them to “like” our FB Page and
then “like” your story. (They can
comment also.) Whoever has the
most “likes” on their story, wins!
The contest runs now through
April 20, so this is the time to
remember your favorite Archie’s
Wok story. Whoever has the
most “likes” on their story wins
the Grand Prize of dinner for
4. Whoever has the second most
“likes” will win dinner for 2, and
our 3rd place winner will receive
50% off a dinner for 2.
Go online to www.facebook.
com and search for our fan pages –
Archie’s Wok - to enter. Stories must
be posted by 5 p.m. Central time on
April 20th to be eligible to win. Dear Editor,
An update on Jorge Acosta’s new restaurant. New hours, great dinners!
My favourite local singer, Jorge Acosta (you will know him from his shows
in Daiquiri Dick’s and The Palm) has opened a delightful restaurant, Rivera
del Rio Café at 182 Rivera del Rio in Col. Emiliano Zapata. (It is at the top
of Lázaro Cáredenas, past the Emiliano Zapata Market, turn right at the river,
3rd place on the right) Open 8-11 daily except Sundays, you will find terrific
omelets, delicious coffees, tea, frappes, smoothies, fresh fruit and vegetable
drinks, sandwiches, bagels, homemade soups, paninis, baguettes, salads and
gourmet dinner - all extremely affordable. It is a family affair run by Jorge’s
wife Anarosa, with help from niece Esmeralda. Brother Charlie is in charge
at dinner time.
Jorge has just hired a gourmet chef from Monterey called Fabian de la
O. who cooks fusion gourmet style. His dishes include stuffed shrimp,
arrachera cooked in red wine, chicken breast a la plancha and fish fillets, all
cooked with Fabian’s special touch.
Check the beautiful wall colours and the interesting interior: all Jorge’s
hard work.
The great highlight is that Jorge sings in his restaurant four nights a week,
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday nights he performs with various
talented musicians from 7-9. Come early though as it is consistently full
with those who admire his wonderful voice. Small and intimate, the musical
evenings in the Riviera del Rio Cafe are a must see. Jorge’s amazing voice
fills the restaurant and between songs he talks with all the customers, eliciting
their requests, welcoming them by name. The family both cooks and serves,
adding to the intimate ambience and friendly atmosphere.
It is a delightful airy space facing the river. There is WiFi, a relaxed and
peaceful atmosphere. It is a space of arte y sabor - art and taste. A place
where artists of all kinds gather, where art is shown and folks meet to chat,
eat or just to work on their laptops.
Delivery service also. Tel.: 223-0465 for more information.
Phoebe Moon
Dear Editor,
We three Canadians just had the most tasty turkey dinner for Easter
Sunday! We happened to stroll down Aquiles Serdan (between Insurgentes
andAguacate) last week and noticed their Sunday Special for 140 pesos. The
turkey was moist, tender and delicious, accompanied by mashed potatoes,
gravy, cranberry sauce, stuffing, fresh vegetables, and a tasy moist carrot
cake included. Draft beer was available too. The proper name is “Eat at
David’s - American Comfort Food”.
The daily specials are: Tues. - Fried Chicken/Meatloaf, Wed. – Spaghetti /
Lasagna, Thurs. - Chicken Fried Steak, Fri. – Fish & Chips, Sat. – BBQ Ribs
/ Top Sirloin Steak, Sun. – Pot Roast (usually alternating with Turkey). For
reservations: 044 (322) 118-8404 or to check daily special.
This restaurant was started by David from Tennessee, the cooks Rosy and
Alfredo were trained by him, and they carried on since his passing 18 months
ago. One of the best meals we have had here and highly recommended.
Patricia, Frank, and Bonnie
P.S.: The PV Mirror is our bible here, a wealth of information on activities,
entertainment and food. Can’t live without it!
SATURDAY 6
ISSUE 233 | APRIL 2013
FRIDAY 12
Nature’s World
19
Planting Roots in Mexico
by TOMMY CLARKSON
Cardboard Palm
Zamia furfuraceae
Family: Zamiaceae
(Also known as Cardboard Cycad, Cardboard Plant,
Cardboard Sago, Jamaican Sago and Mexican Cycad.)
Many
folks – both “up north”
and down here in the more tropical
environs - are well familiar with the
beautiful and unique Sago Palm,
Cycas revoluta – which is not a palm
tree at all, but, in fact, a cycad. Yet
interestingly, Cycad is Greek for
“palm.” So go figure!
These wonderful plants of the
Cycad family, are often called “living
fossils” as they’ve remained virtually
unchanged since dinosaur times. In
fact, fossils of cycads – of species that
still live, unchanged, today – have been
found from as far back as 93 million to
well over 200 million years ago. But,
some of the contemporary confusion
as to their family stems from the fact
that some of these ancient plants have
many of the physical characteristics
of palms with their distinctive trunks
and similar “palm appearing” fronds.
Others, however, are trunkless with
more of a fern-like appearance.
Kin to the widely used and enjoyed
Sago - but with significantly different,
thicker and firmer leaflets - is the
Zamia furfuraceae, or Cardboard
Palm. And in case you wondered,
its binomial name is derived from
the Latin zamia, for “pine nut”, and
furfuracea, meaning “mealy” or
“scurfy”. After the Sago Palm, this
may well be the most popular cycad
species in cultivation.
It is native to the warm, sunny,
sandy coastal plains of southeastern
Vera Cruz in eastern Mexico. As a
result of “growing up” in these climes
it is reasonably drought tolerant.
Not a finicky plant, it grows well in
domestication planted in neutral,
well-drained sandy soil, mulched
with some organic materials, provided
good, bright sun to partial shade, and
being watered when dry. As to mulch,
they prefer organic materials such as
bark – I sometimes use coconut coir
(ground up coconut husks).
Increasingly, it is being chosen as
a landscape plant, for application
in perennial beds, used as an accent
or specimen plant, employed as a
container plant for the deck or patio or,
as a result of its durability and ability
to handle neglect, for indoor use. Salt
resistant, unlike so many plants, they
can be used in beachside plantings. As
a peer described the Cardboard Palm,
it has a keen “instinct for survival.”
But – important note here - if you’ve
children or pets and plan on planting
this around your home please be well
aware that virtually all parts of this
plant are highly toxic which can cause
liver and kidney failure, as well as
paralysis. So if you have any of the
afore mentioned “critters” and they
have a propensity to put things in their
mouths, this may not be the plant for
your home.
The Zamia furfuraceae has a short sometimes subterranean - trunk up to
20 cm (7.9”) broad marked, as a rule,
with old leaf base scars. Growing very
slowly when young, that pace picks up
after the trunk matures. It has leaves
0.9-1.2 meters (3-4’) long that radiate
from a rosette central point. This,
when full-grown - in bright sunlight
- becomes a three foot high clump of
tightly overlapping leaves that will
slowly grow to 1.8 meters (6’) in
diameter. The thick leathery leaves are
pinnate and have 12.7 cm (5”) long by
2.5 cm (1”) wide oval leaflets.
SATURDAY 6
Cycads rally are “older than dirt!” This
magnificent specimen grows in the beautiful
gardens of the Tropical America nursery.
Two female cones - the
lower one has broken open
to reveal bright, crimson,
red 2.5 cm (1”) seeds.
This double - promising to be a great looker
in its maturity - grows on the south edge of
our Grand Terrace.
Slightly fuzzy to the touch, they
have a density not unlike cardboard.
The foliage emerges from a thick
fleshy trunk that, during dry times,
serves as a water reservoir. Produced
on separate plants in their center and seen even when the plants is
young – are cones: the female plant
produces a egg-shaped, rusty-brown,
seed producing cone and the male’s,
smaller, pollen-producing cone.
Insects generally do the pollination
work. When ripe, the female cone
breaks open to reveal a collection of
tightly packed, bright, crimson, red
2.5 cm (1”) seeds.
Planted in and outdoor clump they
are lovely what with their newest
growth of light olive green above the
darker, mature leaves. Some prefer
to grow them indoors in shallower
containers.
ISSUE 233 | APRIL 2013
FRIDAY 12
One has but to feel the
thick, firm leaflets to
instantly understand from
whence the Cardboard
Palm derives its name.
When employed in this manner, with
its partially exposed stem supporting
the airy crown of leaves, it can be used
as a rather striking bonsai specimen.
Fertilize this species bi-annually
(one time for sure, in the spring) water
when dry and when out alone in the
garden, close your eyes when near this
guy and imagine … you might almost
hear Tyrannosaurus Rex stomping by
from its familial past!
In Manzanillo, visit Ola Brisa Gardens,
Tommy and Patty’s verdant, multiterraced tropical paradise nestled on a
hill overlooking the magnificent vista
of Santiago Bay. Leisurely meander its
curved, paved path, experiencing, first
hand, a delicious array of palms, plants and
flowers from all over the world. Or, e-mail
questions to him at [email protected]
20
Health Matters
refused do anything about it. This
girl ran away to live with her father,
but her mother found her and made
her go back home. She was 12 at the
time and didn’t escape this situation
until she was 18 and left home to
live with her boyfriend. Her mother
then proceeded to disown her.
Sexual Abuse
by GISELLE BELANGER
RN, LCSW
S
exual abuse that occurs in
childhood can range from an
ongoing occurrence for years by the
same perpetrator (usually a family
member or close friend of the family)
or it can be a one-time occurrence
by a stranger. Needless to say, it has
an extremely devastating long-term
affect that leaves the person scarred
for life.
Every aspect of their life is
affected. Their sense of self is
distorted and they have a warped
sense of what normal is. They don’t
know how to relate or express and
manage their feelings. They don’t
feel safe and have great difficulty
trusting.
It is particularly confusing when
one of the parents (usually the
father) is the perpetrator because
they are precisely who you are
supposed to feel the most safe,
receive appropriately expressed
physical affection, and receive
unconditional love. Even if one
parent is sick enough to be the
perpetrator, the other parent, usually
the mother is supposed to be capable
of protecting her child from harm
(and for whatever reason does not).
Imagine the damage when neither
parent is capable of appropriate
interaction, affection, nor protection
of their child.
Note: For simplicity in writing
this, I will refer to the perpetrator as
male and the victim as female unless
otherwise specified.
Breaking the silence
How many years have you kept
the secret? What threats did your
perpetrator make in order to keep
you silent? Did your father threaten
not to love you anymore or did you
keep allowing it in order to protect
your other siblings from being
abused? What happened to make
you decide to tell? Who did you
tell? Did they believe you?
She didn’t believe me!
When the perpetrator is a family
member, the child is much less
likely to tell anyone, particularly
a parent. They feel the need to
protect their family and keep the
secret. If the perpetrator is not a
family member, the child is more
inclined to tell depending on the
threats that the perpetrator made or
the manipulative way they made the
child feel guilty or ashamed. The
parent(s) are also more inclined to
believe the child in these cases, but
not always.
One man recalled trying to tell
his mother immediately after it
happened. He was 5 years old
when a man approached him in a
public place and lured him into the
bathroom and proceeded to molest
him. All of these years later, he still
can’t believe that she didn’t wonder
where he was for that 20 minute
period or go look for him. As soon
as he returned to her, he and told her
immediately what happened and she
didn’t believe him. Of course, he is
still very angry about that!
Another woman was forced to
continue living with her perpetrator
even after she told her mother that her
stepfather was sexually molesting
her. Her mother called her a liar and
SATURDAY 6
As an adult…
Maybe you didn’t tell anyone until
your adult years. Did you finally
tell a friend, a teacher, a therapist?
Did you attend support groups or
group therapy? Have you told your
spouse? Have you spoken with your
other siblings to see if they too were
abused? Maybe it is still a secret…
How it manifests itself
throughout your life …
As with any type of abuse, but
particularly with sexual abuse, the
long-term devastating impact on
your life is tremendous. The effects
of such horrifying experiences
might manifest in one or multiple
ways for the survivor. These include
depression, attempted suicide,
alcohol and drug abuse/addiction,
compulsively seeking or avoiding
sex, self-mutilation, and eating
disorders
including
anorexia,
bulimia, and binging and overeating.
Alcohol and drug addiction are
obvious escapes from emotional
pain. They help you numb the
feelings. Addiction also has an
element of self-hate and selfdestruction, which helps the
person perpetuate the feelings from
childhood, therefore continuing the
abuse. You treat yourself the same
way you were treated. You keep it
going. You repeat what you learned;
that you are worthless, don’t deserve
to be happy, or that are a bad person.
(The Courage to Heal, Bass, Ellen
& Davis, Laura, Harper Perennial
Publishers, third edition (1994) Pg
54).
Similarly, self-mutilation also
serves to control the pain, except this
time, it is by intentionally inflicting
it on yourself. The pain is deep,
making you feel, because otherwise
ISSUE 233 | APRIL 2013
FRIDAY 12
you are numb. Cutting also helps to
distract you from the emotional pain
by experiencing physical pain. (Pg
53, 229)
Eating disorders are especially
common. Anorexia and bulimia
tend to develop in families where
external appearance and perception
meant everything, they appeared
normal and were usually highly
respected and were never suspected
of abuse. These victims have found
a way to have control over their
body. The goal for an anorexic is to
avoid physically developing into a
woman in an attempt to keep men
from being sexually attracted to her.
Bulimia is more about a compulsion
to vomit; to throw up, to purge the
disgusting thing (penis or other
objects) out of you. Compulsive
overeating is another way of
protecting yourself by creating a
physically unattractive body so that
no one will want to get near them.
It can also help stuff the emotions
and repress them instead of purging
them. (Pg 55, 227-8).
Depression is very common
following a history of abuse.
Sometimes getting it under control
with medications is possible and
other times the victim attempts
suicide. They may not know why
they feel the way they do because
their memories of the abuse
are completely blocked or very
vague and disconnected pieces.
It can take a long time before
treating the underlying cause of
the depression becomes possible,
because it depends on the capacity
to remember and fill in the missing
pieces.
To be continued next week…
Giselle Belanger, RN, LCSW
(psychotherapist) is available for
appointments in person, by phone,
or by skype webcam. Contact info:
NEW!! [email protected]
Mex cell: 044 (322) 138-9552 or US
cell: (312) 914-5203
Health Matters
Body & Sol
by KRYSTAL FROST
[email protected]
Seasonal Abandonment.
It’s that time of year again…
For those of us who are full time residence, this
is our home, we have no second home to take off
to and usually 2 months of vacation is not a reality.
However... Most of our friends are gone or leaving
and here we are with the seasonal abandonment issue.
I was feeling a little depressed and thought I would
see what the experts have to say about this... it seems
it runs deeper than I thought.
Abandonment is primal fear, the first fear that each
of us experiences as an infant. It is the fear that we will
be left, literally abandoned, with no one to care for
us. Abandonment’s wound is cumulative. It contains
all of our losses, disconnections and disappointments
from early on, the death of a parent, a teenage breakup, being out-shown by a sibling… these experiences
make us more susceptible to heartbreak when we are
abandoned as adults.
The abandonment wound, stored deep within the
limbic brain, is easily triggered. When being left
is the trigger, core abandonment fears erupt. Stress
hormones course through our bodies, compelling even
the strongest among us to feel desperate and lonely.
Being left also kicks up our control issues. Someone
else cast us into this aloneness by choosing not to
be with us. We feel a loss of our personal power
to compel another person’s love. Abandonment is
similar to other types of bereavement, but its grief
is complicated by rejection and betrayal. Sometimes
we turn the rage against ourselves, accounting for the
severe depression that accompanies heartbreak. When
we blame the break-up on our supposed inadequacies,
we abandon ourselves.
We emerge not only disconnected from self-love,
but with a heightened fear of abandonment. If one
person can discard us, we fear others will do the
same to us in the future. Rather than dissipate,
this fear tends to incubate. Its insecurity burrows
within us where it sabotages our relationships.
21
The stages of abandonment grief provide some
support and help focus on where one may be stuck.
S.W.I.R.L. lays out the stages of the abandonment
cycle - Shattering, Withdrawal, Internalizing, Rage,
and Lifting. Those stuck in SHATTERING from
earlier separation traumas tend to be chronically
insecure, unstable, self-destructive, prone to
addiction and borderline functioning in their object
relationships, as well as other psychiatric conditions.
Those stuck in the WITHDRAWAL stage of
earlier separations tend to suffer chronic feelings of
emptiness and longing, exhibiting dependency and
co-dependency disorders. Many seek mood altering
experiences and substances. Palliatives range from
food to people to drugs to self help books - anything
to medicate the emotional the inner conflict and pain.
Those stuck in INTERNALIZING have low self
worth, tend to turn anger toward themselves, are
prone to self-doubt, self-depreciation, depression,
dependency. They have feelings of worthlessness,
difficulty making decisions, and a heightened need
for immediate gratification. They have a constant
need to assuage an emotional chasm of guilt and
shame.. This internal short-circuit causes them
to underachieve, creating a vicious cycle of selfdepreciation and unfulfilled life.
Those stuck in LIFTING have lifted above their
feelings from previous losses. They’ve disengaged
from their most vulnerable feelings, creating a barrier
between their internal and external selves. They’ve
formed emotional calluses over their wounds and
suffer problems of dys-intimacy, displaced emotional
center, and feelings of detached isolation. They’re
hard to reach emotionally. ‘Lifters’ sometimes
cause their partners to feel isolated, unloved, or
emotionally frustrated.
Well, that’s a lot to swallow. I do not feel I am so
sad about the friends flying off to the north,
however…
I am guilty of abandonment and have been
abandoned, so I figure it’s better to make promises
to the ones you love, keep them, and count your
blessings!
Take care.
Krystal Frost is a long time resident of Puerto Vallarta.
Graduate of University of Guadalajara, and specialized in
cosmetic acupuncture at Bastyr University in Washington
State. She is the owner of Body & Sol for over 15 years
where she practices traditional Chinese medicine,
acupuncture, massage therapy, yoga, meditation and
nutritional counseling. She has created healing programs
for individuals, retreats and spas. Questions and comments
may be directed to [email protected]
SATURDAY 6
ISSUE 233 | APRIL 2013
FRIDAY 12
22
Calendar
Solution to crossword on page 27
Solution to Sudoku on page 27
SATURDAY 6
ISSUE 233 | APRIL 2013
FRIDAY 12
Fish Tales
23
Spring arrives with
warm days, warm water,
hot fishing!
Written by STAN GABRUK
of Master Baiter´s Sportfishing and Tackle
T
he sun is a little higher in the sky
these days as we enter spring and as
a result, the days are slightly warmer.
Water temperatures already at
unexpected seasonal highs will only
get warmer from now on. The whales
are long gone and tourist high season
is almost a thing of the recent past.
All through this season, I have been
telling my readers about how fishing
for these Summer Species of Dorado,
Yellowfin Tuna and Sailfish in March
just isn’t a normal occurrence. Yet
the season was disappointing
with the lower numbers of tourist
headings out to Puerto Vallarta’s
world class fishing grounds.
The sparse few who did head
out found the fishing to be a
real mixed bag. One day there’s
a feeding frenzy at Corbetaña,
the next is like a watery grave
yard with nothing happening at
all. I guess this is why we call it
fishing. But for the most part it
looks like we’re heading into an
early summer with warmer than
normal water temperatures.
What this means is if you’re
going after Big Game Fish
this summer, if you don’t have
electronics with sounders and you
don’t have down riggers, you won’t
be catching fish. But more on this in
a moment.
Corbetaña this week was confusing
and exciting at the same time.
Yellowfin Tuna from 25 to 120 lbs. can
be boated on the same day. Schools
of Spinner Dolphin are everywhere.
Snapper are abundant for the jiggers,
surface trolling is not working for
Cubera right now. Sailfish are hit and
miss, yet the Striped Marlin are just
west of The Rock. Dorado are not
really players here and now, but there
have been some 25 to 35-lb beauties
brought back to Victor’s Café Tecuba
restaurant in Marina Vallarta in the
afternoons for dinner. All in all,
Corbetaña this past week was worth
the time and the expense. Red tide
is gone, blue water, conditions are
changing daily, so make sure you get
the latest and greatest through the
regular channels.
At El Banco (The Bank), Bull
Dorado have thinned out, but there are
Striped Marlin, Yellowfin Footballs
25 to 45 lbs. with the Spinner
Dolphin, Cubera Snapper to 50 lbs.
jigging, Amber Jacks to 50 lbs.,
Rainbow Runners... Yellowfin can
reach 120 lbs. here and if you can’t
find them, just start heading north.
The Tres Marias Islands, normally
Tuna Central, was a little slow this
week with several boats coming back
SATURDAY 6
from this 100-mile trek one-way with
empty fish boxes. Hey... It happens.
The Marieta Islands are still
very active, but it’s starting to look
like we’re moving into our annual
transition period when tourism drops
in numbers and the fishing can get
kinda weird. But Rooster Fish are still
chasing Sardine, Pompano to 30 lbs.
are great eating, Snapper to 35 lbs.,
Sailfish a few miles west of the reefs,
Dorado still possible 25 lbs., Skip
Jack Tuna, Bonito, and the list goes
on. Most of the species are running
in the 20 to 35-lb range. Worth the
8-hour trip, it’s not too long and
the days are not too intense. So
it’s a good time to head out and I
guarantee you’ll have the whole
area mostly to yourself.
In the bay, anywhere around
the Yelapa area is doing well. Los
Arcos, while still a protected area
is producing fairly well but not
automatic. Jack Crevalle, Snapper
around the rocks, Skip Jack Tuna,
Bonita, possibilities of Rooster Fish
off the beaches of Nuevo Vallarta
and past the point of Punta Mita
at Anclote near Sayulita. Mostly
smaller game fish, but for younger
types this can be fun for the whole
family just watching the kids have
a ball!
For those in the States reading this
article, I hinted that we are looking
at the serious possibility of water
temps that are basically too warm for
Yellowfin Tuna come summer. When
water temps hit the 90-degree range
they’ll start sounding to level their
body temperatures out. Those fishing
with weak or no electrons will not be
able to see the temperature breaks
in the water temps at the different
ISSUE 233 | APRIL 2013
FRIDAY 12
depths. This will make the difference
in catching fish …or not. It’s a shame
to be out there and not equipped for
the task. Those looking to fish Cabo
this year may find the Yellowfin Tuna
action better than what we’ll have
here in PV for the same reason. Cabo’s
water is about 10 to 15 degrees cooler
and this has been the case in the past
with the same conditions. So keep
this information in your back pocket
for planning purposes. As always,
call me or fire me an email with your
questions.
Remember, we are Official Agents
for Mike’s Fishing Parties and
right now you can book with us 8
hours on a group boat for $170. US
dollars per person. Lunch and sodas
included, BYOB or Tequila!
Until next time, don’t forget to kiss
your fish and remember: at Master
Baiter’s Sportfishing & Tackle “We
Won’t Jerk You Around!” Master
Baiter’s has changed locations in
Marina Vallarta and are now near
Victors Café Tecuba. Look for me
at the least traveled end of Marina
Vallarta and I will be there in my new
place. Email your questions to me
at: [email protected].
mx Web page: www.MasterBaiters.
com.mx , Local Phone at: (044)
322 779-7571 or if roaming: 011
521 (322) 779-7571 (this is my cell
phone directly until the shop phone
is working Facebook: http://www.
facebook.com/pages/Master-BaitersSportfishing-Tackle/88817121325
The trade name Master Baiter’s ®
Sportfishing and Tackle is protected
under trade mark law and is the sole
property of Stan Gabruk.
24
Gil Gevins’ Page
Coming in for
a crash landing
by GIL GEVINS
www.gilgevins.com
M
y first two years in college I had
a weekend job working at the Fillmore
East in New York City. The Fillmore
was the world’s premiere Rock ‘N
Roll auditorium. It was located in the
heart of the notorious East Village
and operated during the height of the
‘Sixties’.
Technically, I was an usher. But
I quickly invented my own job, and
did it so well I was given a new title:
Director of Lunacy. My invented job
consisted in “neutralizing” the overly
boisterous drug-crazed members
of the audience. If I was unable to
get them under control, or off the
premises, the Gorillas were called
in. The Gorillas were a group of big
ugly biker dudes who would drag the
offending parties outside and beat the
crap out of them.
And so, for all those flippedout druggies, I was the last line of
defense, all that stood between them
and an ugly beating.
Flash forward forty years.
My wife and I were spending a few
nights in San Jose del Pacifico, high
high in the mountains of Oaxaca. San
Jose is tiny, a bump on the road, but
its setting is spectacular: cloud forests
and limitless vistas of intense green,
fading in and out of the swirling mist.
Life in San Jose centered around our
small rustic hotel and its two famous
proprietors: Tio Tomas and Tia
Veronica. (Tio and Tia usually mean
Aunt and Uncle, but in that region of
Oaxaca they are the equivalent of Don
and Doña, terms of respect for people
of a certain age and standing.)
Lucy and I had come to San Jose to
soak up the local beauty and do some
hiking in the amazing cloud forest.
The other hotel guests were there
for the magic mushrooms. Magic
mushrooms, unlike ordinary fungi,
allow you to see God—if you’re
lucky. Tia Veronica and Tio Tomas,
we discovered, were the principle
purveyors of said questionable
material, and their purveying is what
had made them famous.
On our second morning, as we were
walking from our cabaña up the steep
trail to the wee hotel’s restaurant,
SATURDAY 6
we passed a couple sitting in front of
their own cabaña who seemed to be
staring fixedly at the inspiring view.
My eye, however, trained by that
two year stint as Director of Insanity,
recognized at once that these folks
were, A: Under the influence of a
powerful psychotropic substance; and,
B: Scared out of their minds.
Up at the restaurant Tio Tomas
approached our table and wished us
buenos dias. “Tio Tomas,” I said, “we
noticed on our way up that the couple
in number five is having a hard time.”
“How so?” the kindly old indian
asked.
“My guess is, this is their first
experience, and they weren’t quite
ready for it.”
His weathered face clouded with
concern. “I’ll go talk to them.”
Lucy and I had just finished our
delicious apple-filled hot cakes when
Tio Tomas returned. “They are in a
bad way,” he said with feeling. “I tried
talking to them, but it didn’t help.”
“Let me have a crack at it,” I said. “I
used to talk people down for a living.”
Tio Tomas was astonished. “They
paid you to do that?”
I arrived at the offending cabaña,
plopped a chair down directly facing
the couple, and said with a huge
grin, “Hi! You two look terrific! Isn’t
everything beautiful!”
The couple, college professors from
Mexico City in their late thirties,
stared at me with cartoon eyes, as if I
had suddenly sprouted a second nose.
And who knows? Perhaps, I had. “It’s
t-t-t-too much!” the man spluttered.
“Yes,” I said, still grinning, “losing
your ego can be kind of scary. But it
doesn’t last.”
“It doesn’t last?” the woman
repeated numbly.
“You feel like you’ve lost your
minds,” I said. The couple nodded.
“You feel like you’ve journeyed to a
terrible place and are never coming
back.” Again, they nodded their heads.
“No one told you what to expect.”
“They, they, s-said we’d see God.”
“Well,” I laughed, “you are seeing
God. The problem is, God can be kind
of scary. Just focus on two things. Do I
have your attention? These two things
are going to save you.
ISSUE 233 | APRIL 2013
FRIDAY 12
These two things are going to make
everything all right.”
The couple’s eyes filled with a
desperate hope. Their savior had
arrived!
“Number one,” I said, “what you are
feeling now is only going to last for
a few hours. Before long, you will be
your old selves again. Number two, if
you can relax and let go, you will have
fun. Are you with me?”
Vigorously, they nodded their heads.
“Have you eaten mushrooms today?”
the man asked.
“I had a few dozen for breakfast,”
I lied. “And look at me; I’m fine,” I
lied again. Then I stood up and spread
my arms, like a happy buzzard posing
for a photo. “There is only love!!” I
proclaimed. “And the whole world
loves you! You are beautiful magical
beings!”
Lucy found the three of us fifteen
minutes later engaged in a group-hug.
My wife regarded me with a crooked
smile. “Well, if it isn’t the Pied Piper
of Haight Ashbury.”
Winking madly at my wife, and
feeling pretty foolish, I shouted,
“Peace and love!”
“Peace and love!” my new disciples
repeated joyously.
Following closely upon my wife’s
heels was Tio Tomas, wondering if
I’d had any luck with his guests. After
observing the ecstatic couple bursting
at the seams with glee, Tio Tomas took
me aside and said, “You are really
good at this. Would you like a job?
I can’t pay much, but I can give you
room and board, and fifty per cent off
on your mushrooms.”
“Gracias, Tomas, that is a generous
offer,” I replied, “but it comes about
forty years too late.”
“Yeah,” my wife added, “he’s nuts
enough already.”
Gil Gevins is the author of four
hilarious books, including his
latest and greatest, SLIME AND
PUNISHMENT. Signed copies of Gil’s
books are available at LUCY’S CUCU
CABAÑA, located at 295 Basilio
Badillo. Or get them as E-Books on
Amazon Kindle.
Real Estate
25
Another factor which reduces homes sales is that adult children
have moved back in with their parents. Slow improvement in the
job market also means slow movement of young adults away from
their family homes.
HOUSING STARTS - 2013 is too early for housing starts to get
back to normal. American will not see above-normal construction
anytime soon. This current year will probably show over one
million total housing starts. This will be a substantial percentage
gain over 2012, but a 30 percent gain from a very low number, is
still a low number.
HOME PRICES will rise in 2013, but only modestly. The most
recent data suggests that national average housing prices are rising
by roughly a five percent annual rate.
This is too optimistic a projection for the next few years. There
are many owners of multiple underwater properties who will sell
as soon as they can. Increased number of houses on the market will
limit price hikes.
APPRECIATION - There is not much reason for housing prices
to appreciate by more than three percent plus inflation, or about a
five percent average in this current environment. Periodic booms
and busts will push price gains above or below trends, but this will
only be temporary. Ten-percent appreciation expectations are not
realistic on a long-run basis.”
A change in tax laws which favors or disfavors real estate will
cause one-time price changes.
RENTING VERSUS BUYING - Apartment investors, both large
and small will find any boom does not predict the future. Rents
have risen so that owning is becoming cheaper than renting in many
cities. With the expectation of price appreciation, we’ll soon see
renters anxious to buy their own homes.
Times will not be hard for landlords, but they should not project
further gains beyond what they secured in 2012.
by: HARRIET MURRAY
What’s happening
with the US home market?
This article is based upon legal opinions, current practices and
my personal experiences. I recommend that each potential buyer
or seller of real estate conduct his own due diligence and review.
S
ome writers in Mexico have recently stated that the
Mexican real estate market will recover as the US housing
market rebounds. The US housing market can be a lot of hype
to encourage a false impression of what is really going on in this
large segment of our American economy.
I have been impressed with Bill Conerly, a blog writer, and his
comments on a recent Forbes Magazine website:
“The US housing market will improve moderately in 2013, but no
one should mistake this for a boom. Gains in activity and sales will
be a welcome relief, but many homeowners will still be underwater.
The usual way of discussing housing problems is misleading.
Foreclosures, short sales, shadow inventory, upside-down
mortgages are all symptoms. The fundamental problem is that the
US has an excess supply of homes and condos for sale.”
Recent underbuilding has been the greatest aid to housing recovery.
Less building did not act as fast as we might have expected, because
the recession slowed population growth (because of a smaller birth
rate, as well as less migration from abroad).
SATURDAY 6
Harriet Murray can be contacted at [email protected]
ISSUE 233 | APRIL 2013
FRIDAY 12
26
To Touch or Not?
N
o, don’t worry - this article is
still rated ok for all ages. The topic is
touch screens - are they good... bad...
or the devil’s work?
Touch screens have been around
for a long time in restaurants, hotels
and of course, ATM’s. But for many
years, these little wonders were
very expensive and often running 3
or 4 times the cost of a comparable
regular screen cost. However, as
with all technology, they make
things smaller and reduce the costs.
Well, fast forward to 2013 - tablets
and phones with touch screens are the
norm. Even here in Vallarta, stores
with newer stock are displaying
touch screen computers. Laptops,
all-in-one computers, and regular
desktop computers with touch
screens are popping up in stores all
over.
The cost of a touch screen-capable
computer has come down a lot the
past couple of years, to where it’s
Hi-Tech
only one or two hundred dollars
more than the same model without
touch capabilities. So... is a touch
screen something you need or even
want?
Depending on whom you talk to,
touch screen computers are either
the natural evolution of the PC or the
dumbest idea ever. On one side you
have Microsoft and Intel touting the
latest Windows 8 touch screen PCs
and on the other you have people
quoting Apple’s Steve Jobs about
“touch” not belonging on laptops or
vertical displays. So who’s right?
Well, no one, really. As with
deciding on any other computer
feature - for example, display size or
processor - choosing to have a touch
screen or not is a matter of preference
…and your needs.
Let’s take a look at the pros and
cons of touch screens on a computer
so you can make up your own mind
about them. Windows 8 came out last
October and was written to work very
nicely with a touch screen. Hence
the large outcry from computer users
who only use a keyboard and mouse
SATURDAY 6
and hate the Windows 8 look (side
note: I have found some good tricks
and tweaks to make Windows 8 look
and act more like Windows 7 without
reinstalling the whole operating
system).
A touch screen is perfect for
working on a tablet or smart
phone because the screen is more
convenient for use with your hands
than an upright laptop or desktop
screen. I can already see a new
strain of carpal tunnel syndrome
looming on the horizon – ha, ha.
There’s actually a term already for
the prolonged use of vertical touch
screens - Gorilla Arm!
Gorilla Arm is a term describing
the tired arms users get after reaching
out and touching a vertical screen for
an extended period of time. It’s been
cited by many as a reason why touch
screen computers will not take over
any time soon.
If you’re continually holding up
your arm to point at a vertical display,
sure that’s going to hurt. However,
the truth is you’re probably not
going to be perpetually holding up
your arm. If you’re using a touch
screen desktop PC or laptop, you
might tap and swipe, then switch to
the keyboard and mouse, and back a sort of combo of the two types of
input methods.
One of the earliest criticisms about
touch screen PCs is that programs
and desktop windows are hard to use
with touch. The close button, scroll
bars, and other navigational elements
were too small and hard to accurately
hit. Windows 8 has changed that
to a big extent, with things like the
Explorer ribbon creating a more
touch-optimized interface in desktop
mode and, of course, its new full
screen apps.
Newer desktop programs like
Microsoft Office 2013 are even
pretty touch-friendly. And with those
programs that aren’t, you can easily
zoom in and use gestures to make
working with a Windows 8 touch
screen PC at least as easy as using
a tablet.
One of the main reasons I won’t
be switching to touch screen on my
ISSUE 233 | APRIL 2013
FRIDAY 12
computer anytime soon - the smears
on the screen. I’m a bit OCD already
as far as working on a clean computer
screen goes. Greasy, scummy smears
are the bane of every smartphone
and tablet user - and I am constantly
cleaning my iPhone screen to
remove smudges. It’s no different
when you’re constantly touching a
PC screen. Getting out the microfiber
cloth more often is a hassle.
Another big reason as to why I
think touch screen laptops won’t
become the norm yet is their power
usage. Touch screens require more
power. PC Magazine compared a
couple of touch screen laptops with
their non-touch counterparts (same
model and size) and found that the
non-touch laptops lasted over an
hour longer in terms of battery. This
is definitely something to keep in
mind if you need as much battery life
as possible for your next laptop.
Just when we’re getting the
technology of laptop batteries to a
point where we can easy pass the 5
or 6-hour mark, BAM... they add a
feature like touch, to drain it down
again!
So basically, the touch screen is
really just another way to interact
with your computer. You will still
have your keyboard and your mouse
(or track pad) when you want them
and can use the touch screen as
little or as much as you want. If the
added cost of the touch screen and
the possible battery life hit don’t
matter much to you, you don’t have
anything to lose - and you might
very well enjoy the computer touch
screen as much as you do the one on
your tablet.
That’s all my time for now. See
you again next week... until then,
remember: only safe Internet!
Ron can be found at CANMEX
Computers. Sales, Repairs, Networking,
Wi-Fi, Hardware upgrades, Graphic
Design, Data Recovery, This doctor
makes house calls! www.RonnieBravo.
com, Cellular 044-322-157-0688 or
just email to [email protected]
Brain Teasers
27
The New York Times Tuesday Crossword Puzzle
Solution to Crossword
on Page 22
SUDOKU!
Sudoku is a logic-based placement puzzle.
The aim of the puzzle is to enter a numerical digit from 1 through 9 in each
row, column and group of squares enclosed by the bold lines (also called a
box). Each box must contain each number only once, starting with various
digits given in some cells (the “givens”). Each row, column, and region must
contain only one instance of each numeral.
Completing the puzzle requires patience.
It is recommended as therapy because some studies have suggested they
might improve memory, attention and problem solving while staving off
mental decline and perhaps reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
Solution to Sudoku on Page 22
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ISSUE 233 | APRIL 2013
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ISSUE 233 | APRIL 2013
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