Pvmcitypaper.com 12 TO 18 JULY 2019 - PV Mirror

pvmcitypaper.com 12 TO 18 JULY - 2019 ISSUE 554

You are here, finally! If 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. If you look at
 We wish you a warm the maps on this page, you will note that PV (as the locals call it) is on
 the west coast of Mexico, smack in the middle of the Bay of Banderas -
 Welcome one of the largest bays in this country - which 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 did come close on October 25, 2002, but
 actually touched down in San Blas, Nayarit, some 200 kms 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 that can only be boarded there. They have pre-fixed rates yet, if you have a “bank card”, withdraw funds from your
 POPULATION: 350,000 inhabitants per passenger. City cabs are yellow or white, and charge by account back home. Try to avoid exchanging money at
 CLIMATE: Tropical, humid, with an average of 300 sunny the ride, not by passenger. When you ask to go downtown, your hotel. Traditionally, those offer the worst rates.
days per year. The temperature averages 28°C (82°F) and the remember that your fare covers the ENTIRE central area, so WHAT TO DO: Even if your all-inclusive hotel is everything
rainy season extends from late June to early October. make sure you are brought to the main plaza! Pick up a free you ever dreamed of, you should experience at least a
 FAUNA: Nearby Sierra Vallejo hosts a great variety map, and insist on your full value from the driver! Note the little of all that Vallarta has to offer - it is truly a condensed
of animal species such as iguana, guacamaya, deer, number of your taxi in case of any problem, or if you forget version of all that is Mexican and existed before «Planned
raccoon, etc. something in the cab. Then your hotel or travel rep can help Tourist Resorts», such as Cancun, Los Cabos and Ixtapa,
 SANCTUARIES: Bahía de Banderas encloses two Marine you check it out or lodge a complaint. were developed. Millions have been spent to ensure that
National Parks - Los Arcos and the Marieta Islands - where Uber has also been available in PV for the past year or so. the original “small town” flavor is maintained downtown, in
diving is allowed under certain circumstances but fishing of Download their app in your smartphone. the Old Town and on the South Side.
any kind is prohibited. Every year, the Bay receives the visit of TIME ZONE: The entire State of Jalisco is on Central Time, DRINKING WATER: The false belief that a Mexican vacation
the humpback whales, dolphins and manta rays in the winter. as is the area of the State of Nayarit from Lo de Marcos in the must inevitably lead to an encounter with Moctezuma’s
During the summer, sea turtles, a protected species, arrive to north to the Ameca River, i.e.: Nuevo Vallarta, Bucerías, La Cruz revenge is just that: false. For the 26th year in a row, Puerto
its shores to lay their eggs. de Huanacaxtle, Sayulita, San Pancho, Punta Mita, etc. North Vallarta’s water has been awarded a certification of purity for
 ECONOMY: Local economy is based mainly on tourism, of Lo De Marcos, Guayabitos, La Peñita, San Blas, etc. are on human consumption. It is one of only two cities in Mexico that
construction and to a lesser degree, on agriculture, Mountain Time, i.e.: one hour behind PV time. can boast of such accomplishment. True, the quality of the
mainly tropical fruit such as mango, papaya, watermelon, TELEPHONE CALLS: Always check on the cost of long water tested at the purification plant varies greatly from what
pineapple, guanabana, cantaloupe and bananas. distance calls from your hotel room. Some establishments comes out of the tap at the other end. So do be careful. On
 CURRENCY: The Mexican Peso is the legal currency in charge as much as U.S. $7.00 per minute! the other hand, most large hotels have their own purification
Mexico although Canadian and American dollars are widely CELL PHONES: Most cellular phones from the U.S. and equipment and most restaurants use purified water. If you
accepted. Canada may be programmed for local use, through Telcel and want to be doubly sure, you can pick up purified bottled
 BUSES: A system of urban buses with different routes. IUSAcell, the local carriers. To dial cell to cell, use the prefix 322, water just about anywhere.
Current fare is $10.00 Pesos per ticket and passengers then the seven digit number of the person you’re calling. Omit EXPORTING PETS: Canadian and American tourists often
must purchase a new ticket every time they board another the prefix if dialling a land line. fall in love with one of the many stray dogs and cats in Vallarta.
bus. There are no “transfers”. LOCAL CUSTOMS: Tipping is usually 15%-20% of the bill Many would like to bring it back with them, but believe that the
 TAXIS: There are set rates within defined zones of the at restaurants and bars. Tip bellboys, taxis, waiters, maids, laws do not allow them to do so. Wrong. If you would like to
town. Do not enter a taxi without agreeing on the price with etc. depending on the service. Some businesses and offices bring a cat or a dog back home, call the local animal shelter for
the driver FIRST. If you are staying in a hotel, you may want close from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., reopening until 7 p.m. or later. In more info: 293-3690.
to check the rates usually posted in the lobby. Also, if you restaurants, it is considered poor manners to present the LOCAL SIGHTSEEING: A good beginning would be to take
know which restaurant you want to go, do not let the driver check before it is requested, so when you’re ready to leave, one of the City Tours offered by the local tour agencies. Before
change your mind. Many restaurateurs pay commissions ask «La cuenta, por favor» and your bill will be delivered to you. boarding, make sure you have a map and take note of the
to taxi drivers and you may end up paying more than you MONEY EXCHANGE: Banks will give you a higher rate places you want to return to. Then venture off the beaten path.
should, in a second-rate establishment! There are 2 kinds of exchange than the exchange booths (caja de cambio), Explore a little. Go farther than the tour bus takes you. And
of taxi cabs: those at the airport and the maritime port though not all offer exchange services to foreigners. Better don’t worry - this is a safe place.

 Publisher / Editor: Graphic Designer: Cover Photo: 250 words max, full name,
 street or e-mail address and/
 Allyna Vineberg Leo Robby R.R. “Up, Up and Away!” or tel. number for verification
 avineberg@yahoo.com By Bob McCuaig purposes only. If you do not
 Webmaster: want your name published, we
 Office & Sales: pvmcitypaper.com An Important Notice: will respect your wishes. Letters
 223.1128 Online Team The PVMIRROR wants your views and & articles become the property
 comments. Please send them by e-mail to: of the PVMIRROR and may be
 edited and/or condensed for
 Contributors: avineberg@yahoo.com publication. The articles in this
 PV Mirror es una publicación semanal. Certificados publication are provided for the
 Anna Reisman / Krystal Frost de licitud de título y contenido en tramite. purpose of entertainment and
 Prohibida la reproducción total o parcial de su information only. The PV Mirror
 contenido, imágenes y/o fotografías sin previa
 Stan Gabruk / Tommy Clarkson autorización por escrito del editor.
 City Paper does not accept
 any responsibility or liability
 NOTE: for the content of the articles
 Bob Price / Leonardo Campos To Advertisers & Contributors and those with public on this site or reliance by any
 interest announcements, the deadline for publication is: person on the site’s contents.
 Sonia Contreras / Ana Luz Velazquez 2:00 pm on Monday of the
 Any reliance placed on such
 information is therefore strictly
 week prior to publication. at such person’s own risk.

 2

Change of plans!

 Due to a number of unforeseen circumstances,
 we will have to postpone our little mini-
 vacation, so there will be new issues of the PV
 Mirror online for the next few weeks.

 We hope you enjoy them, especially this
 week’s, which contains some fascinating info
 regarding Bastille Day.

 Allyna Vineberg
 Editor / Publisher

 The young soccer players who are representing with 30 goals and 15 points in its favor. PV is
Puerto Vallarta in the 2019 Jalisco Cup continue followed by the teams from Guachinango, with 8
to do our city proud, winning their first four points; and Talpa de Allende, with 7 points.
matches in the regional phase of the most On Saturday, July 6, Puerto Vallarta will visit
important amateur soccer tournament in the the municipality of San Sebastián del Oeste to
state. Each team is making reciprocal visits to play their team, and Guachinango will play in
their opponents’ home field, competing for their Talpa de Allende; the winner of this last game
spot in the Jalisco Cup’s second phase. will be the region’s second place team and will
 In the first regional match, played on June join PV as they move on to the next stage of the
1, our local athletes challenged the Talpa de 2019 Jalisco Cup tournament.
Allende team on the Colonia La Mesa field in The grand final of the Jalisco Cup will be
their adversaries’ municipality, and beat the played on September 22 at the Estadio Jalisco in
home team with a score of 3-0. the visitors with a score of 15-0. The following Guadalajara, and the winner will be named the
 The second regional soccer match, played on weekend, PV defeated Talpa de Allende with a 2019 Jalisco Cup champion.
June 9 at the Agustín Flores Contreras Municipal score of 2-0, giving them a total of 12 points It is worth remembering that the Jalisco Cup
Sports Stadium, gave the Puerto Vallarta team for the four games won; their next matches champion team will win a trip to Spain, where
a home field advantage over the team from will be played as visitor, first to the group of they will have the opportunity to watch a Real
Guachinango, and our boys emerged victorious Guachinango and then to the municipality of San Madrid soccer match, as well as the chance
with a final score of 8-0. Sebastián del Oeste. to play friendly matches against the affiliated
 The Puerto Vallarta team remained undefeated Last weekend, the Puerto Vallarta soccer team squads of Getafe Club de Fútbol and Club
after playing the third game on June 15 against continued its winning streak, beating Talpa de Deportivo Leganés.
San Sebastián del Oeste at the Agustín Flores Allende 2-0, and maintaining their position
Contreras Municipal Sports Stadium, beating as the group leader of the Costa Sierra region, (Sources: banderasnews.com, puertovallarta.gob.mx)

 3

This dam would cut off the waters feeding all of the Cabo
 Corrientes communities, including the Botanical Garden.
 Thank goodness that the landowners have finally overcome
 their usual apathy and organized numerous demonstrations
 Anna Reisman
 and petitions are growing. I hope their voices are heard.
 Also the local authorities have finally admitted that the
 When we first moved to Puerto Vallarta, levels in Puerto Vallarta’s reservoirs are lower than they’ve
 everyone had a land line, with or without an ever been, causing them to ask residents to conserve water
 accompanying fax machine. Back then, the as much as possible. Do your part, friends!
 city had a pretty thick telephone directory. Personally, I’m a happy camper. The night-blooming
 The 1996 edition had over 200 Yellow Pages, jasmine tree fills my house with beautiful aromas, the
 and some 80 white pages, in addition to pages filled with crickets have returned, singing all night long – and starting
 coupons, listings of the advertisers in English, etc. etc. as soon we will get more rain (hopefully) the hillsides will
 One year, Telmex’ directory even caused a local mini- look like a carpet of multi-hued shades of green with lush
 revolution! The people rose up in indignation, tore out vines covering the treetops from top to bottom, the sunsets
 the first few glossy pages filled with photos of “escort” will once again be spectacular night after night, and all will
 services, and threw them at the Telmex offices – which used be well, at least here.
 to be downtown, before Hurricane Kenna’s storm surge I look forward to driving along the Libramiento these days,
 inundated them. in addition to the new vines appearing along the overhead
 A couple of weeks ago, a fellow came to my door to wires, we can look for the brand new potholes that are bound
 deliver the latest Telmex “directory”, after an absence of a to appear as well – if we get rain…
 few years’ issues. It contains 86 yellow pages. That’s it. Due to the lack of alternatives these last few years, and my
 No white pages. reluctance to driving too far for very little, I have become a
 I guess most people have cancelled their land lines, regular shopper at the Emiliano Zapata market. Excellent
 leaving so few that it wasn’t worth listing them. Progress? produce of all kinds, I must say. Unfortunately, I think that
 A random thought: They say that patience is a virtue. I Costco is slowly becoming like Walmart and Sam’s used
 think that in Puerto Vallarta it is a necessity. One thing’s for to be when they first opened here, i.e.: just when you find
 sure: patience and tolerance will get you much farther here something you really like, it is no longer available when you
 than anger or frustration. return for more a couple of weeks later. Oh well, c’est la vie
 Other than all the usual accusations of fraud, corruption ici à Vallarta.
 and other misbehavior by nearly every political party against Until next time, all my best wishes for a Happy Bastille
 the other -especially with regard to the Rio Horcones dam Day to all my fellow francophones. And to the rest of you:
 they’ve been proposing, with no environmental studies I hope your Mirror always reflects a happy, healthy you.
 submitted to the authorities- there was not much news in sheis@ymail.com
 the local papers this past week.

4

Beyond PV

 NOW OPEN FOR LUNCH TOO!
 ...with those fabulous, unique pizzas and pastas that
 only Encuentros can prepare. Check out the beautiful
 new location at 124 Berlin, between Hamburgo and Aldanaca
 Streets in Versalles. Tel.: 222-2598. Open and ready to ‘seduce
 your senses’ from 1 to 10 p.m. Closed Sundays.

 5

the towers were twelve more guns They boldly demanded that the
 that were capable of launching bridges be lowered, but they were
 24-ounce case shots at any who refused. The Marquis de Launay
 dared to attack. However, the said he would surrender if his troops
 enraged Paris Commune was too were allowed to leave peacefully,
 defiant and too livid to submit to the but he was simply rebuked. They
 starvation and seeming injustice of wanted de Launay on a noose or
 their government. with his head in a basket.
 The Bastille was governed by The vicious crowds shouted
 a man named de Launay. On July for him to lower the bridges. De
 7th, thirty-two Swiss soldiers led Launay sent a note to a mob leader
 by Lieutenant Deflue, came to aid named Hulin, claiming that he had
 de Launay, helping him to prepare 20,000 pounds of gunpowder and
 for a small mob. Rumors were if the besiegers did not accept his
 flying everywhere. De Launay offer, he would annihilate the entire
 was expecting a mob attack, fortress, the garrison, and everyone
 but certainly not a siege! The in it! Yet they still refused. The
 entire workforce of the Bastille bridges were finally lowered on
 It’s Bastille Day! big fortress that marked the start of had stealthily and furiously de Launay’s command, and he and
 their revolutionary movement. been repairing the Bastille and his soldiers were captured by the
 This Sunday, July 14th, the French Most of us have either read reinforcing it, all to prepare for a crowds and dragged through the
around the world will be celebrating Victor Hugo’s “Les Misérables” minor attack from a hundred or so filthy streets of Paris.
Bastille Day, the storming of that or seen the movie, or both. It deals angry citizens. The mob paraded through the
 with the French Revolution of At three o’clock that afternoon, streets, showing off their captives,
 1789, celebrated nowadays as the however, a huge group of French and crudely cutting off many heads.
 birthday of modern France – Le guards and angry citizens tried to The National Guard tried to stop
 Jour de la Bastille (Bastille Day). break into the fortress. There were the crowds from looting, but it was
 We offer you a short summary of over three hundred people ready useless. They continued marching
 the days that led to it. to give their lives to put an end to on, making their way to the Hotel
 their overtaxing and overbearing de Ville.
 The Storming of the Bastille government. However the Bastille Upon learning that the Bastille
 was threatened by more than the had been taken, King Louis XVI,
 Half past three on July 14, 1789, numerous crowds: three hundred who was residing at Versailles,
 a huge, bloodthirsty mob marched guards had left their posts earlier was reported to have asked an
 to the Bastille, searching for gun that day, out of fear and from the informer: “Is this a revolt?” and
 powder and prisoners that had been rumors. The besiegers easily broke La Rochefoucauld-Liancourt said,
 taken by the unpopular and detested into the Arsenal and into the first “No, Sire, it is a revolution.” Little
 King, Louis XVI. courtyard, cut the drawbridge did Louis know that the mob’s next
 Even elements of the newly down, and then quickly got through plan was to march to Versailles,
 formed National Guard were the wooden door behind it. and take him away with them.
 present at the assault. The flying
 rumors of attacks from the
 government and the biting truth
 of starvation were just too much
 for the angry crowds. The Bastille
 had been prepared for over a week,
 anticipating about a hundred angry
 subjects. But nothing could have
 prepared the defenders for what
 they met that now famous day.
 Along the thick rock walls of the
 gargantuan fortress and between
 6

Ana Luz Velázquez The French Intervention baguettes, crêpes, pastries made
 (1862 – 1867) with “crême pâtissière” (crema
 France’s influence on world In the second half of the 19th pastelera), Chantilly cream or Lady
history is undeniable. It appears Century, French culture was slowly Fingers. Furthermore, it is common
in the works of many people and seeping into Mexican society. The to find items on menus such as
nations, and Mexico is no exception. arrival of Maximilian of Hapsburg in patés, compota (from the French
 Mexico, called Emperor of Mexico compote), mousses, soufflés,
 The Independence by the conservatives, imported Profiteroles, etc.
 of Mexico the European social etiquette that
 French influence can be clearly Mexico’s conservative high class Blue-Eyed People in the
established in time: as of the 1810 adopted. Highlands of Jalisco
War of Independence. The leader of From that time on and until the Following the withdrawal of the
the movement was the priest of the end of the Porfirian period, men’s French after the loss they suffered at
town of Dolores, Miguel Hidago y and women’s fashion was dictated the hands of the Mexican army and
Costilla, a learned man. by French fashion. the chinacos (a native community those in high society. This applied
 The basis of his libertarian The French established from the State of Puebla), many to everyday customs as well as
principles can be found in the books themselves in various areas French chose to remain on architectural styles. Consequently,
written by philosophers Voltaire of Mexico where they opened Mexican soil, mostly in the States at the beginning of the 20th Century,
and Jean Jacques Rousseau, and in restaurants serving French dishes, of Michoacán and Jalisco. And small palaces arose in the big cities.
the principles of equality, fraternity cheeses, wines, liqueurs and they married, resulting in a strange Along some avenues in Mexico
and liberty engendered by the pastries. They also set up bakeries mix. It is common to see men and City and Guadalajara, we can
French Revolution. and pastry shops. To this day, you women living in the rancherías and still admire the beauty of great
 But all did not end here. Liberal can find croissants and French little towns of Jalisco’s Highlands mansions that once belonged to the
thinkers of the recently acquired (Tepatitlán, Lagos de Moreno, San so-called “Porfirian nobility”. Most
independence of Mexico in 1821 Juan de los Lagos) who are tall and of them clearly show the French
carried a patina of French ideology blond, with green or blue eyes. influence, with fluted columns,
in their intellectual heritage. fountains, avenues, sculptures in
 In the end, the French - who The “Porfiriato” (1876-1911) the great symmetrical gardens,
claimed to be enemies of absolutism Porfirio Diaz was the Mexican stairways and staircases, lamps,
and supporters of liberty, while General instrumental in the 5th marble floors. Many of them were
belonging to a culture that was of May or Cinco de Mayo defeat abandoned during the decline of the
highly influential on all things of French troops near Puebla. Porfiriate, preserved as monuments
Mexican - were able to settle in this During his dictatorship, called to the megalomania of a social
country with great ease, dedicating the “porfiriato”, a tendency to class. Most inhabitants of those
themselves to commerce, small imitate European styles, especially huge houses chose France as their
industry and handicrafts. French ones, took hold among final refuge.

 7

Vallarta Yacht Club
 announces membership drive
 with special discounts
 for the month of July.
 The VYC is offering a 50% discount off the initiation fee on Flag
 Memberships (6 months part-time or 12 months full-time) during the
 month of July. Our goal is to reach out to the local community as well
 as temporary residents and visitors.

 Why join?
 The Vallarta Yacht Club offers year-round boating activities, including
 local and international sailboat competitions; a Youth Sailing Program;
 organized cruising events; and educational programs. Additionally, the
 Club has a full-service restaurant and bar with professional bartenders
 and servers; offers weekly dinner specials; and sponsors parties that
 include live music.
 Our goal is to provide an attractive, comfortable, and active social
 environment for members. In addition to promoting, sponsoring,
 managing, and providing facilities for yachting events, we also sponsor
 charitable events and activities that benefit the Banderas Bay region and
 its residents. Our members and their guests have the privilege to reserve
 the Club facilities for special events, such as weddings, anniversaries,
 special family parties, quinceañeras, birthdays, etc.
 Members can also use the pool and hot tub, enjoy reciprocal privileges
 at other clubs worldwide; they also have access to the Club’s small
 boats, lasers, and power boats.
 For complete membership and information, please check out
 our website, www.vallartayachtclub.org ; send an email to office@
 vallartayachtclub.org or call 297-2222. You may also contact Vice
 Commodore Ken Anning at (322) 212-8804.

 Jazz ‘n Prime Rib Night

 Saturday, July 27th. Happy Hour from 5 to 7 p.m., No-host bar /
 Appetizers. Prime Rib Dinner & Jazz from 7 to 9 p.m., featuring
 the Alter Ego Quartet, accompanied by a tropical sunset at no extra
 charge! All in an air-conditioned dining room.
 $650. pesos per person. For reservations, please call 297-2222.

 Open House & Two for One Happy Hour

 Every Tuesday night until September 24, 5 to 7 p.m.
 Come to our open house! If you are not a member, come meet us.
 If you are a member, please come and help build our membership
 and have fun at the same time. Even better, Happy Hour bar prices
 apply from 5 to 7 p.m.

 The Vallarta Yacht Club is located at Paseo De Los Cocoteros, N. 1,
 Local #20, in Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit. Tel.: 297-2222.

8

Have you been yearning?...

 …for Mark’s famous pies? Or any of his other delicious offerings?
 You can always pick them up at his place, The Leek & Thistle Pie
Company, located at 156 Hamburgo in Col. Versalles.
 Mark has sausage rolls, frozen meat pies, lasagna, sausages - both
Italian and Bangers, fruit pies (apple, Berry Nice, peach and ginger,
apple berry crumble, rhubarb & strawberry, etc.
 Open Mondays & Tuesdays – 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesdays – 10
a.m. to 2 p.m., and Thursdays & Fridays – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. … or
thereabouts. Satisfy your cravings!

 11

The / 7 Arts

 Act II Entertainment, located in the Zona Romantica, is THE place to go! Their brand-new SUMMER
 ENTERTAINMENT PROGRAM is in full swing! Featuring Las Vegas-style cabaret shows, visitors can enjoy
 a cool drink in the luxurious, air-conditioned, fully-equipped Encore Bar, and then delight in some of the best music
 you have ever heard…. right here in Puerto Vallarta! Tickets for all shows are available at act2pv.com
 still loved around the world today.
 #1 Cabaret, Theater and Concert Venue This Vegas-style cabaret show has
 ~ Trip Advisor propelled Us Two into the #1 spot
 #2 in “Things to Do” in Puerto Vallarta in Puerto Vallarta entertainment!
 ~ Trip Advisor Shows sell out -- get your tickets
 #1 Entertainment Venue! now at www.act2pv.com!
 ~Vallarta Tribune “Best of Vallarta” Reader’s Poll
 TripAdvisor ★★★★★

 ABBA AND ELTON JOHN
 Act II’s Shows (July 5-12):
 SHOW
 Super Saturday, July 6 “Saw the ABBA/Elton John
 7:30 - Twist & Shout, a delightful song, dance and shtick show, show tonight @Act 2. Many of
 with LIVE MUSIC, full of 50’s and 60’s music! the best songs from Mama Mia
 and Elton John’s classics. Both
 Terrific Tuesday, July 9 (no cover charge) performers have outstanding
 8:00 - Bob’s Karaoke Party, the best Karaoke in the Bay! Their repertoire changes with Broadway worthy voices and
 each performance, but these stage presence that is not only
 Wonderful Wednesday, July 10 amazing vocalists (and their entertaining but deep down
 7:30 - “Best of ABBA & Elton John,”
 live band) will treat you to an heartwarming. I didn’t want to
 featuring 2019 Best Band award, Us Two.
 unforgettable evening of music see the show come to an end! If
 Tantalizing Thursday, July 11 and an evening to remember! you like Elton and ABBA...do not
 8:00 - SUMMER CONCERT SERIES ABBAand its flamboyant costumes miss this show while in PV. The
 “What the Folk?” featuring Cesar Medina and the acoustical music and catchy music, is considered to instrumentalists, ie, keyboardist,
 of legends, Eric Clapton, the Beatles, Bob Dylan and more! be one of the top musical groups guitarists, and drummer were so
 in history, having sold over 500 talented they could be a show
 million albums! Elton John first themselves!”
 Best of ABBA and Elton John” became famous for his oversize “We went to see Us Two in
 during the summer season! glasses and outrageous outfits, concert, performing Abba and
 In a musical tribute to the timeless but his enduring popularity and Elton John. It is done in a very
 featuring Us Two music of two unforgettable acts, incredible talent have earned him small, intimate theater. Us Two
 (and their LIVE BAND) ABBA and Elton John, which five Grammy awards, induction are incredible musician/singers.
 Winner, “Best Band 2019” into the Rock ‘n Roll Hall of They had the crowd on its feet
 began in the 1970’s, UsTwo
 Every Wednesday - 7:30 pm Fame, and sales of more than 300
 will perform songs that you singing along and cheering. …. If
 After its incredibly successful, remember, such as Mama Mia, million+ albums! Together, these you are in Puerto Vallarta do not
SOLD-OUT RUN this year, Dancing Queen, Chiquitita, Sad two acts epitomized the soft rock/ miss this entertainment venue and
Us Two is thrilled to be able Song, Candle in the Wind, and pop musical sounds that became Us Two in particular.”
to present their #1 show, “The Rocket Man, and many more. hugely popular in the 70’s, and is
10

TripAdvisor ★★★★★ A weekly show featuring stocked, air-conditioned bar, and
 “up-and-coming” local bands features the BEST KARAOKE
 “Twist and Shout. Saw this Each summer, Act II has created in town! It’s the place where
 fantastic show opening week! a series of shows that highlight many of your favorite singers/
 ... We had such a great time with and showcase some of the
 actors from your favorite shows
 this show! From start to finish incredible talent here in Puerto
 Vallarta! Many of the musicians pop in to sing with the locals!
 it was a fun feel good time. The
 two performers were spot on in that have been featured in these We love for everyone to get the
 voice and dancing. High energy shows have gone on to stardom, chance to sing! It doesn’t matter
 from two adorable actors that have as a result of this exposure! if you are by yourself or are afraid
 amazing chemistry. We are going to get up on the stage.... You are
 to try to see it again before end This week’s SUMMER CONCERT totally welcome to just drop in
 of its run. Definitely recommend SERIES features: and listen to other people sing,
 for an upbeat good time.” Thursday, July 11 - 8:00 pm while you relax in the friendly,
 “Twist and Shout was amazing! “What the Folk?” welcoming atmosphere... and
 Visiting Puerto Vallarta I had An acoustical show,
 make new friends! Plus, many
 the great decision to come into a featuring Cesar Medina
 Well-known local musician, Cesar
 aspiring actors that are now
 beautiful cabaret with one of the
 most amazing shows I ever have Medina (and his percussionist), appearing in Act II’s productions
 seen there, Twist and Shout. The present a collection of songs have been “discovered” at
 two singers are great actors, are by Bob Dylan, the Beatles, Cat Act II’s Karaoke Party!
 featuring Juke Box Hits
 from the 50’s and 60’s full of energy, great voices and Stevens, Eric Clapton, and more. We invite you to join your hosts,
 Every Saturday - 7:30 pm amazing dancing. For sure if you Cesar is not a stranger to Act II. In Marsha Ward Ross and Danny
 are visiting Vallarta you can’t fact, he has performed alongside Mininni, every Tuesday evening
 Twist & Shout, Act II’s miss this amazing show, it’s like a many of our most popular singers, during the summer, for a totally
hugely popular “sleeper hit” time travel to a funny and full of including Brittany KIngery and fun and COOL evening!
of the season, returns to the emotions night! Totally a MUST!” Elvis Morales! This powerful
Red Room on Saturday nights acoustic guitarist/singer is much in
this summer! Take a journey TripAdvisor ★★★★★
 demand as a session guitarist!
back to the time of poodle
skirts and rock ‘n roll, with the “So when first moving to
dynamic duo of Pedro Islas and Puerto Vallarta, I was in search of
Faride Talama who present a “One of Act II’s most popular events” a theater. I was invited personally
high-energy, hilarious musical Every Tuesday - 8:00 to 12:00 pm by the owner to come to karaoke
comedy, with such songs such Happy Hour - 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm nights. I was introduced to
as I Wanna Be Loved By You, (No Cover Charge) amazing locals and have since
Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You, Karaoke Night is Back!
 made great friends and found
Be My Baby, Lollipop, I Only
 KARAOKE NIGHTS is the a home in the Act II family.”
Want to Be With You, Twist and
Shout... and more! You will most popular, most welcoming “I was able to only visit for the
want to get up and dance along and most FUN karaoke party karaoke night, but it was very
with them! This unforgettable in the Bay! Happy Hour Drink enjoyable, with a large number
show has a unique format and Specials are offered from 6:00 of seriously impressive singers.
is full of singing, comedy, and - 8:00 PM, and free karaoke Service was great, surroundings
DANCING to the rhythms that begins at 8:00 PM! Our beautiful plush, overall a great place. Well
changed the world! Tickets are Encore Lounge has a fully- done, Act II.”
available at www.act2pv.com!

 Are You an Actor? Dancer? Singer?
 Act II is still casting for next season’s shows! If you are interested in auditioning, please Contact Marsha Ward Ross at
 act2entertainmentproductions@gmail.com for details!

 Tickets to all shows can be purchased online at act2pv.com or at the box office, which opens at 4 p.m. on show days.
 The Act II Entertainment Stages complex is located on the 2nd floor at the corner of Insurgentes and
 Basilio Badillo in Zona Romantica.

 11

It happened that a patient came It never fails as these foods turn
in last week and mentioned he was out to be favorites of patients who
amazed that he had no pain in his deal with pain and inflammation…
arthritic knees. He had decided AVOID THEM, THEY CAUSE
to give acupuncture a try after 3 ACIDITIY, WHICH IN TURN
 Krystal Frost
orthopedic surgeons had agreed he CAUSES INFLAMATION AND
needed to have surgery, which he PAIN, eventually leading to the
wanted to avoid. He comes in about breakdown of joint tissue.
3 times a year for a treatment and
is pain free. One of many stories… Exercise
believe it or not. Arthritis can be extremely
 Often, people with arthritis turn way: by addressing your painful, and you may
to medication for pain or go under diet and exercise habits. think it is next to
the knife as this is normal protocol Taking acupuncture will impossible to exercise
the MDs offer, and what they have bring the organs back when your joints are
been trained in. Now we know there into balanced harmony inflamed. However,
are solutions that work for both and restoring the PH of the alternative is... you
osteoarthritis and rheumatoid your body which in turn stop moving, your joints
arthritis. These solutions involve reduces swelling and will become more stiff
lifestyle realignments. That’s the pain. and painful, and you
tough part. Most of us are pretty Recommendations can gradually lose your
attached to our lifestyles, our drinks for Osteoarthritis mobility and then, your
and wines… our favorite foods… - Get plenty of omega-3 independence.
activities… the list is endless. fats by taking a high- - Start slow and listen
 My Dear Readers are not surprised quality krill oil. to your body
to hear that the longest lasting - Get moving with a non not tax the kidneys or liver, being - Restores joint mobility
solution of all is proper, nutritious aggressive exercise program. easily identified by the body, such - Prevents loss of lean muscle tissue
food, food combining knowledge, - Eat a healthier diet based on as teas, wheatgrass juice, salts, - Maintains strength
alkalize your diet and avoid your blood type. natural fruit and veggie juices and - Reduces pain and stiffness
overeating … (say that 100 times). - Rely on safe anti inflammatory diatomaceous earth. - Mobilizes stiff or contracted joints
These proper nutrition statements alternatives for pain relief. That being said, certain - Releases endorphins
sometimes require a re-education on Recommendations supplements are far safer than the - Harmonizes body and mind
what is nutrition, how to combine for Rheumatoid Arthritis: pain killers that many arthritis through mediation
different proteins and carbs and the - Improve your diet using patients take on a regular basis. - Alkaline the joints and muscles
tingo / tango of what is what on a nutritional typing. Also, the doses of these painkillers by drinking 9.5 p.h. water
personal diet level. One has easy - Take a high-quality krill oil for need to be increased over time
access to this information, with the omega-3 fats. as pain killers never treat the Gentler body arts, i.e.: Tai Chi and
aid of internet and a Google search. - Have an effective method of condition or under lying cause of Hatha Yoga, are recommended to
Try typing in your blood type and addressing the nearly universal the pain. open the body / mind connection.
food combining for a 101 class on underlying emotional distresses Omega-3 fats form the precursors Combine the arts with swimming,
nutrition based on your blood type. that are present in nearly all auto- to the molecules that actually produce power walking, stretching and lifting
 In Asian medicine, osteoarthritis immune diseases (or… stop eating or inhibit inflammation in your body weights. You should generally
(a degenerative joint disease) and yourself up over things you can´t (prostaglandins), so it is essential to avoid high-impact exercises.
rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune change). make sure you are getting enough. Food for thought...
disease) are two entirely different - Incorporate regular non My most highly recommended Mind set is everything. If you
diseases, but they can be treated in aggressive exercise into your daily form of omega-3 fats is from krill are caught up in inflamed thoughts
much the same way. This is because schedule. oil. You have to get this from the and negative inner dialogs, you
certain principles will start a cascade - Take 30 minutes of early NORTH… I have not found a local will create that same acidic,
of healing in your body, no matter morning or late afternoon sun. source and would love it if someone inflammatory, degenerating
what the problem is. What about supplements? has this… let me know. atmosphere in your body.
 Osteoarthritis is commonly said Asian medicine states... Avoid: tomatoes, potatoes,
to be caused by wear-and-tear on A nutritious diet will support your eggplant, sugar and or substitutes
your joints due to lifestyle, diet and health in a way that no supplement in all forms, alcohol, yes, beer
aging, while rheumatoid arthritis is ever can, so any supplements you and wine fall into that category
an autoimmune disease in which do take should be in addition to a (switch to vodka, mezcal or
your body starts destroying itself. healthy diet. Supplements should tequila), bell peppers, tomatoes
 Krystal Frost
You can gain relief in much the same and orange juice. For questions and comments - Cell: 322 116-9645,
 be taken in a natural form that does
 Email: krystal.frost73@hotmail.com

12

Now the details, the bite is
 happening early right now, be
 wherever you want to be before
 08:00 a.m. This means NO
 Stan Gabruk (Owner of Master Baiter's Sportfishing & Tackle) sleeping in. Bait conditions are
 astounding. 3-inch Squids are
 thick in the bay areas, explains
 the Yellowfin Tuna, but every
 Since Stripers like cooler water roaming the area as well. So this species like squid. Bullet Bonito a
 I’m a little surprised they’re still in area is primarily for Sailfish and favorite... Sardines, Goggle Eyes,
 the area. But seaweed is coming Striped Marlin, maybe a Dorado. flying fish and the list goes on.
 down from California so there is Reports of Sailfish north of Punta And of course, the ever important
 still some “current confusion”. We Mita are coming in as well so water temperatures are in the low
 have nice action at Corbeteña, El anything is possible, amigos! end range of perfect at 82 degrees.
 The days are longer now, the sun Banco is still an information void Inside the bay we’re pretty Yellowfin have surprisingly
is more intense, and naturally the but I’d say things could be rocking lucky this week as well. Dorado enough been hanging around
days are very warm with plenty on the high points. These days, are down by Estela Dera or Corbeteña, last week it was tough
of humidity. Perfect conditions with the ever-increasing price of the Garza Blanca hotel area to to get them to take bait, today
for our summer species which are fuel and Corbeteña being closer, Yelapa. And again around any that’s changed! And as is normal,
finally moving in. Bait is more the obvious choice is there. The debris in the bay. Striped Marlin this won’t last forever so it’s a
than plentiful and we’ve seen the bottom line: it’s time to consider strangely enough are back in good idea to act quickly on these
seasonal rains once again. We’re our famous deep water fishing the bay following the massive reports as things can change in a
finally coming into the season grounds if you have been waiting amounts of bait. Sierra Mackerel few days. You may work all day
when we can expect larger fish, for “affordable” Tuna Fishing trips. are still around and so are a few for one or maybe two Yellowfin
maybe not in large numbers, The area around El Moro Jack Crevalle. But when you Tuna, but those Tuna are Cows
but things are picking up by the to Punta Mita is picking up can boat a Striped Marlin in the or maybe a Monster, amigo. But
day. With the rains returning with Sailfish, finally! We also bay in six hours, that’s a gift listen, don’t get caught grabbing
we’ve got several trash lines, have several trash lines and the from the heavens. Also for the wifey’s credit card! Ha ha… Be
not to mention seaweed coming seaweed in the area make for some last couple of years, we’ve seen smarter than me!
down from California. Get ready, interesting fishing possibilities. Dorado move in earlier and In the following weeks and days,
amigos, Puerto Vallarta is in the Dorado running 15 lbs. or so can earlier although they’re smaller we’re expecting to see increases
summer grove now and things be found in the area, so look for sized. Three years ago, it was in water temperatures. If the bait
will gradually improve from this floating debris and seaweed and late August before we saw our hangs, especially the Squids for a
point forward. then head straight for it. You first Dorado so to me this is a little while, then the next few days
 Of course the exciting news is can find Bonito in the area but blessing. A four or six-hour trip to a week should be very good
at Corbeteña where Yellowfin not too many for some reason. will get you some world class for the Tuna guys. With Great
Tuna in the cow and monster Jack Crevalle are thin but still fishing on a short day budget! Family fishing in the bay and
ranges are not only here, but Trophy fishing in our deep water
they’re good size. Now it’s not fishing grounds we have fish for
automatic by any stretch of the everyone. Just remember to throw
imagination, but it is happening! the females back to help build the
Yellowfin Tuna are now ranging Dorado population again…
in the 200 to 230-lb range. With Until next week, don’t forget to
“some” over 330 lbs.! That’s the kiss Your Fish!
upside, the down side is you’re
going to have to work all day for Stan Gabruk
one or three strikes. Web page: www.MasterBaiters.com.mx ,
 Local Ph. at: (044) 322 779 7571 or our international
 It can make for a long day and
 number is: 011 52 322 209-1128, 10 to 9 local time.
with an early bite, it can make
 www.facebook.com/pages/Master-Baiters-
the day even longer. Sailfish are Sportfishing-Tackle/88817121325
low in numbers, but here as well. The trade name Master Baiter’s ® Sportfishing
Striped Marlin are still roaming and Tackle is protected under trade mark law
the area, but not in large numbers. and is the sole property of Stan Gabruk.

 13

Historical Naval Museum
 (right next to Los Arcos Amphitheater) $45. Pesos.
 Voladores de Papantla perform @ 6 p.m.
 Emergency Line: 911 on the Malecon in front of La Bodeguita del Medio.
 Tues. to Fri. - 9 & 11 a.m. + 1 & 3 p.m., Sat.: 9 & 11 a.m.
 + 1 p.m. - El Salado Estuary Mangroves Tours,
 bilingual guides. Reserve at Cell: (322) 201-7361.
 Hospiten 226.2081
 Tuesdays & Thursdays - 9:30 a.m. - Humanitarian Tour of
 Corazón de Niña, including brunch. Reserve: 224-9209
 Wednesdays - 8 p.m. - Practilonga! -
 at J&B Dancing Club, Fco. I. Madero 178. Free!
 Fridays - Shabbat Services & dinner.
 222.0923 Info & Reservations: Rabbi@chabadvallarta.com
 Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays - 9 a.m. to closing - PETCO
 Cats & Dogs Adoption Center - next to La Comer

 Fridays - 9:30 am - 1:30 pm - Marsol Market - by the pier
 Saturday - 9 am - 1 pm - Market at The Big Apple & Co.,
 178-8999 / Emergency: 911 I.L.Vallarta & Lazaro Cardenas
 Saturdays
 178-8800 / Emergency: 222-1527
 11 a.m.-2 p.m. - AngeliCat & Acopio Pet Adoptions -
 at Plaza Caracol
 5 p.m. - Bilingual Mass - at Our Lady of Guadalupe
 12 noon to 1 p.m. - Center for Spiritual Living - at the
 Cuale Cultural Center on Isla Cuale Rev. CorinaScherer
 In Guadalajara: 01 333 268-2100
 Sundays - 6 to 7 p.m. - Municipal Band,
 Emergency: 01 555 080-2000 7 to 8 p.m. - Danzon Music - Dancing in the main square
 Email: conagencypuertov@state.gov SPCA - To find your perfect companion animal rescued by the
 SPCA, please contact spcapv@gmail.com
 PLEASE leaf through this issue for the many events that
 do not appear here ...and JOIN US ON FACEBOOK!
 N.B.: All events are subject to change without notice.
 For a comprehensive list of most -if not all- charity groups and
 non-profit organizations in and around PV, you may want to check out:
 ww.puertovallarta.net/fast_facts/non-profit.php

14

9 a.m. – English Services, also Bilingual Services on Sundays at 10:45 a.m.
 – at Calvary Chapel (non-denominational) by Hotel Las Palmas
 9:30 a.m. – English Worship Service – First Baptist Church,
 next to Park Hidalgo
 9:30 a.m. - Grace Vineyard Church Bilingual at Westin Resort & Spa
AEROTRON 226-8440
 in the PV Marina, 9:30 - English, 10 - Español.
AIR CANADA 01 800 719-2827 10 a.m. - Traditional Christian communion service – at the
AIR TRANSAT 01 800 900-1431 Anglican Church Puerto Vallarta (formerly Christ Church by the sea)
 10 a.m. – English Services w/communion, Anglican/Episcopal –
ALASKA 01 800 252-7522 at Christ Church by the Sea – Plaza Genovesa
AMERICAN 01 800 904-6000 10 a.m. - Amazing Grace Christian Church - Non-Denominational -
 at Ciao Restaurant, Paseo Cocoteros 35, Nuevo Vallarta.
CONTINENTAL See United
 10:30 a.m. — Non-denominational Contemporary Christian Worship
DELTA 01 800 266-0046 Paradise Church at Act II
FRONTIER 01 800 432-1359
INTERJET 01 800 011-2345
SUN COUNTRY 01 800 924-6184
UNITED 01 800 864-8331
US AIRWAYS 01 800 428-4322
AEROMEXICO 01 800 021-4000
SOUTHWEST 01 800 435 9792
WESTJET 01 800 514 7288
VOLARIS 01 551 102-8000

 Animal lovers! These are the
 Facebook pages of some PV
 non-profits that love them too.
 animalistas de puerto vallarta
 25,000+ friends
 PV AnimalAc 1,800+ friends
 PV’s Animal Shelter
 pv mexico adopt foster and
 flight angels 1,400+ members
 assists PV’s Animal Shelter
 Friends of Puerto Vallarta Animals
 8,300+ followers
 assists PV’s Animal Shelter
 PuRR Project
 1,300+ followers
 www.purrproject.com
 AngeliCat
 8,700+ followers
 Solution to crossword on page 20 Solution to Sudoku on page 20 Paraíso Felino
 1,400+ followers
 Match Dog Com Puerto Vallarta
 2,500+ followers
 MexPup
 7,500+ followers
 www.mexpup.com
 Colina Spay & Neuter Clinic
 1,800+ followers
 Peace Animals
 6,600+ followers
 www.peaceanimals.org

 15

From the Vallarta Botanical Garden...

 “Never doubt that a small group of
 thoughtful, committed citizens can change
 the world: indeed, it’s the only thing that
 ever has.” — Margaret Mead
 Dear Friends of the Garden,
 Since January, myself and several other
 staff members and volunteers of the Vallarta
 Botanical Garden have been involved with
 a movement to protect the Los Horcones
 River. This protection movement was
 provoked by an attempt to dam the river
 without first preparing the necessary
 environmental and social impact studies,
 or communicating clearly and openly with
 the communities that will be affected by
 such a project; if it is allowed. Since the Dr. Rafael Guzmán Mejía started this petition months of protests, the name of the owner of
 inception of the resistance, our highly to Mexico’s President, Andres Manuel Lopéz this would-be dam and pipeline privatizing and
 respected friend Dr. Rafael Guzmán Mejía, Obrador, Dr. Víctor Manuel Toledo Manzur, & commercializing the community’s water has not
 one of Mexico’s most famous botanists, has Sergio Humberto Graf Montero yet been released publically. Our community
 risen to the occasion to help lead this great deserves to know who will own the water if
 cause. He has worked with a committee Some natural areas don’t become a conservation this project is brought to fruition and the final
 from the community of Boca de Tomatlán priority until the moment we are poised to lose destination of the energy it would generate. The
 to stage protests, press conferences, and them. The Los Horcones River Canyon is now damage that has already occurred - clearing of
 informative public assemblies on the at that moment. While only about a 40-minute tropical dry forest (one of the world’s most fragile
 subject and to file denuncias (charges) drive south of Old Town Puerto Vallarta, the Los ecosystems), extirpation of fauna, excavations, and
 and amparos (legal blocks) to detain this Horcones River has until now remained well demolition down into the very bedrock along the
 project from happening. His latest work is a preserved over much of its course from the heights shores of this river - is alarming. However, what
 petition to protect the Río Los Horcones as of the Sierra El Cuale (over 2,300 meters) to its is more alarming is what is at stake if this river is
 a designated federal natural protected area. mouth at Boca de Tomatlán. Aside from passing not protected. Not only will the terrestrial species
 At the time of publication of this issue some ranches and a few small villages along the that depend on this river suffer and die, the Bay of
 of The Leaflet, this petition, launched way, most of this river’s course flows through vast Banderas will lose one of its last significant sources
 in early June, has well over 100,000 stretches of intact forest (pine-oak forest along its of fresh water. Of the other significant rivers
 signatures and is gaining momentum each upper reaches transitioning to tropical dry forest feeding into the Bay, only the Ameca and Cuale still
 day. Dr. Guzmán also just organized a around 400 meters). Its steep granite walls have have a trickle of water making it to the sea year-
 student strike and demonstration at the helped protect it so far along with the amazingly round. The others (Pitillal, Eden, Palo Maria), are
 site of this would-be dam that was very diverse flora and fauna that it shelters — river already so overexploited that they flow to the sea
 well attended and thoroughly covered in otters, jaguars, and rare orchids included. only during the few months of the rainy season. As
 the press. Environmental crises happen This January, the residents of the working-class the last significant free-flowing river of our region,
 when communities are not alert, vigilant, village of Boca de Tomatlán found themselves Los Horcones provides nutrients and a change in
 and organized to stop them. We salute Dr. embroiled in a fight against an invalid project salinity that is essential to marine wildlife including
 Rafael Guzmán and the committee of Boca threatening to expropriate this river’s water humpback whales, dolphins, and sea turtles. While
 de Tomatlán for their tireless work to protect through a dam and pipeline. Purportedly in the we thank the good people of Boca de Tomatlán for
 the Los Horcones River. We are proud to be name of generating “clean energy,” contractors staying strong in their resistance so far, this fight
 on your side of this struggle. ¡Viva el Río were given a shady exemption to proceed cannot be theirs alone. For all who love Puerto
 Los Horcones! without the required environmental impact or Vallarta, wildlife, whales, our planet - and for those
 social impact studies and none of the effected who believe in protecting local cultures also, their
 Robert Price, communities were ever consulted. It was a clear way of life - this fight is ours, too.
 Founder and Curator, insult to the law of the land and the dignity of Learn more at: http://chng.it/bhnvPZmJZk,
 Vallarta Botanical Garden these communities. Further insulting is that after vivanatura.org/rio

16

From Sonia Araceli Contreras
 Membership Coordinator, VBG
 gardenmember@vbgardens.org

 We were walking back home
from the river and my companion
asked me why was I picking up
litter so far away from my home,
to which I answered without
hesitation, “This is my home,
and I don’t know how many
more kilometers around here
is my home, too!” A long time
ago, I understood that we are
nature’s children from the earth
and that if we take care of it, she
will take care of us in return. I am
wondering how it is that someone
back in his office in a big city,
scouts a map in search of pristine
areas to exploit, with no regard by staff biologist Leonardo Campos Cordero,
for the ecological damage that his Education Coordinator
investment might cause to “his
home”. There is a documentary This June, we had the pleasure in receiving 30 elementary school students from
film that compares the actions of the Colegio Indira Gandhi. Their visit allowed the kids to get to see first-hand
an average corporation to a person. and learn about the marvelous plants and animals that can be found not too far
It turns out that the psychological from their homes, their importance, and also raise awareness about taking care
profile of the average corporation of our forests.
is the same as that of a psychopath This month we also had incredible participation during the Hummingbird
with no morals or common sense. Celebration, where the Chapel was packed with people listening to the presentation
Sadly, the government officials on the Biology of Hummingbirds, and we also had a large amount of people of
that are supposed to regulate
 all ages attend the hummingbird drawing workshop carried out by Bio. Claudia
economic development condone
 Murguia.
many of these actions. Here at
 The National Botanical Garden Day was also a great success and had a great
the Vallarta Botanical Garden,
we know the importance of
 turnout during the Pollinating Animals and their Favorite Plants presentations
environmental education and your given by guest speakers.
memberships help us continue this Many thanks to all the volunteers and staff that helped these events be a great
important labor. success!

 Hacienda de Oro Visitor Center (including areas with restaurant
 service), restrooms, the Holstein Tropical House, and the Daneri
 Vireya Rhododendron House as well as several trails linking these
 Visit the Garden’s Hacienda de Oro Restaurant for authentic areas. No wheelchairs for loan or rent.
 Mexican food and brick-oven pizza. Hike the Garden’s nature trails Pets are welcome when kept on leash in their owner’s control and
 and experience the very best of Vallarta! their waste is picked up immediately. Extra fee of $50 pesos per pet
 The entry fee is $200. Pesos per person (good for 2 consecutive days). applies. The Garden is about 30 minutes south of Old Town PV, on
 Children 4 and under admitted free of charge when accompanied by a Carretera a Barra Navidad at km 24, just past Las Juntas y Los Veranos,
 parent and/or legal guardian. We are currently ranked #3 in “Things to all easily accessible by public transportation ($30. pesos each way).
 Do in Puerto Vallarta”! Catch the bus at the corner of Aguacate & V. Carranza in the Romantic
 Wheelchair accessible parts of the Garden include the Vallarta Zone. Tel.: 223-6182. Open every day EXCEPT MONDAYS from 9
 Conservatory of Orchids & Native Plants, the lower floors of the a.m. to 6 p.m. www.vbgardens.org

 17

While “a rose by any other - Latin named Metroxylon sagu)
name is still a rose”, a palm is - in addition to this popular (non-
not a palm simply because it’s palm) landscape cycad from
called such! A “true” palm is a the Cycadaceae family. Much
member of the Palmae family.
 Tommy Clarkson of the misunderstanding stems
However, popular usage now (no pun intended) from how
has the word applied to a number both the, sometimes, branching
of plants which merely resemble trunk and the terminal crown of
palms. pinnate leaves of Cycas revoluta
 The following are “imposters” look so similar to a true palm.
that, though sharing the palm However, upon closer perusal,
designation in their common one finds that its leaves are stiff
name, are not, in fact, of that and borne as a rosette, not singly
family at all. But we – being as in palms. Beyond that, the
of the inquiring mind sort - can male inflorescence of this cycad
only but ask, “What, then, are resembles a cone.
they? Prince Sago Palm (Cycas
 Let’s consider some of these taitungensis) – The Prince Sago
“palm pretenders!” Palm is another Asian native
 Traveler’s Palm (Ravenala carrying the palm name. But
madagascariensis) - Though like its more senior royalty – the
sporting erect, somewhat palm- King Palm – it’s also a cycad.
like leaves, this is actually in Cardboard Palm (Zamia
the Strelitziaceae family and furfuracea) – This is a New World
related to the Banana Tree, Bird cycad, that – while also incorrectly
of Paradise and Heliconias. carrying the palm name - originally
Originating from Madagascar, came from Mexico.
its leaves are arranged in two Palm Lily (Cordyline
distinct ranks on the same plane, australis) - In the agave
forming a fan-shaped head. family (Agavaceae) this plant
The flowers of the Traveler’s comes from New Zealand.
Palm look much like the White Its branching habit gives the
Bird-of-Paradise. Its common Palm Lily a resemblance to the
name comes from the - perhaps palms of the Hyphaene family.
apocryphal - fact that the cup- However, it has sword-like
like leaf bases can hold water leaves that are crowded together
which “travelers” could drink. at the end of the branches and
 Ponytail Palm (Nolina looks much like members of
(Beaucarnea) recurvate) – those in the Dracaena genus,
Sometimes this magnificent, thus leading to the confusion.
 A few weeks after inflorescence, this Ponytail Palm
slow growing member of (or Elephant’s Foot) is nearly 140 years old. Ti Palm (Cordyline
the succulent family is also terminalis) - An Eastern Asia
called an elephant’s Foot Tree. inch wide, narrow, sharp edged, revoluta) - There is a great deal native, it also resembles plants
Originally from Mexico, its grass-like and are bunched in of confusion associated with in the Dracaena genus which
pendulous leaves grow up to six large, dense terminal rosettes. this plant name. This is because causes some to think it, too,
feet in length, are less than an King Sago Palm (Cycas it also refers to a very real palm looks like a palm. A somewhat

18