Ana María’ wins Marlin category

• A 152.7 kilo Marlin catch on Friday 15th, owner Mark Martin and his crew got their second crown of the year at Riviera Nayarit’s fishing tournament
• Complicated but fun was the second day of competition at Bahía de Banderas

The crew of Ana Maria worked hard on Friday 15th to get the best catch at the 5th International Tuna and Marlin Fishing Tournament at Bahia de Banderas, and did well with their 152.7 kg Marlin that was enough to win their second championship of the year. Just last month, they also won the San Blas Tournament.
Rainfall on Friday night made things difficult for Saturday fishing, the runner ups in the Marlin category for the second and third place of the competition were caught, and only one out of three tunas caught qualified for the minimum weight, a 51 kilograms yellow finned caught by Hold On that sufficed to give them the third place in the competition. The 65.5 kg catch presented on Friday by “My Way” and the 65 kg tuna also presented on Friday by the “Guayabitos” Team, made first and second place.
“Two years ago I bought this boat and decided to spend my time fishing in the Mexican Pacific during the Winter. I’m from Germany but live in Pennsylvania, I have been coming to Nayarit ever since and have already won six Marlin Tournaments, including this year´s at San Blas and now Bahia de Banderas. Today (Sunday) we had no luck, but we are still happy because we have won the tournament”, said Mark Martin.
The crew of 007, that arrived early on Sunday with a 105.4 kilo Marlin –just over the minimum weight—said that the last day of competition wasn´t easy at all. “We were out looking for fish the whole day and could only get a catch at La Corbeteña with enough time to get back on the marina”, they were excited about making third place.
Nayarit is one of the best fishing destinations in the world, as it offers great fishing year-round and a great variety of fish like wahoo, sailfish, tuna, three different species of marlin, sawfish, and snapper, among many others.
FINAL RESULTS
Marlyn
1 Ana Maria. 152.7 kg
2 Animal House. 143.4 kg
3. 007 TEAM. 105.4 kg
Tuna
1 My Way. 65.5 kg
2 Guayabitos. 65 kg
3 Hold On. 51 kg
4 My Way. 48.8 kg
5 Los Matadores. 42.7 kg
Mahi Mahi (special)
1 Drink Team. 12.6 kg
2 Sierra. Acayapan. 10.3 kg

Gourmet Experience

Chef Eugenio Villafaña and Somelier Eduardo Zapata - Restaurante La Casona

Riviera Nayarit, promoting the regional Cuisine creates a one of a kind tour for locals and visitors to the Puerto Vallarta area. The merger of three prestigious Restuarants, La Casona de Villa la Estancia, Nicksan and Lucca Residences Marival Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, offers a unique culinary experience. Casa Madero who operates the oldest vineyard and winery in the Americas provides an exquisite selection of the best wines for the gastronomic tour.
In each restaurant visited, with an approximate time of 50 minutes at each, participating chefs and sommelier will give an explanation of textures and flavors of the courses in each restaurant. Participants are transported between restaurants aboard Turibus Fibber.

The start time is 6pm at the restaurant of the particular Tour, finishing at approximately 9pm. The starting price per person is $ 1,100.00 m / n. Including VAT and local residents receive a 15% discount.

Puerto Vallarta to host the International LGBT Expo and Business Conference

The International LGBT Expo & Business Conference will serve as a showcase and business platform for buyers and sellers who drive national and international products and services to the LGBT community.
Among the industry professionals are service providers such as airlines, hotels, restaurants, cruise ships, car rental agencies, travel operators, travel agents and tourism boards, CVB’s, and leading companies currently serving the global LGBT community as well as companies interested in leveraging the business opportunities of the LGBT market
The event will host business exchanges with the opportunity of having 24 appointments over two days between buyers and sellers nationally and internationally to discuss sale and trade opportunities.
The conference will feature seminars for those interested in learning about the buying tendencies and new market trends within the LGBT community.
The International LGBT Expo & Business Conference, Puerto Vallarta 2011 will take place on November 20th through the 23rd at the Presidente Intercontinental Resort located in one of Puerto Vallarta’s most exclusive areas.

Ask a Realtor...

Q: What are the biggest mistakes you see sellers making in the market right now? Joan O. California

A: With mortgage financing now a reality, and many home prices being reduced dramatically, we are seeing a strong return of buyers to the market. There is still a plenty of bad press, economic uncertainty, and frankly, buyers are now getting their “revenge” from what many saw as irrational price increases in the previous several years. Therefore, the biggest mistake seller’s can make is to not listen to the market. Many sellers form an emotional attachment to their property and are not willing to price appropriately. They make comments to justify outlandish pricing such as; “my cousin Vinnie said…” “It was appraised at…” “I paid this…”; but guess what, the only “real” price for a property is the price that a qualified buyer is willing to pay! One reason that so many properties are overpriced is that many sellers do not scout the competition. It is critical to not only know the exact market conditions in the area and have a firm grasp on pricing and sales trends; but they must also see firsthand the other properties. Open houses are a perfect opportunity to do this. There is a new dedicated website for open homes in our area, it is: www.openhouse.com.mx.
Another big mistake is not prepping the property for showing. Buyers have a lot of choices these days and can be very picky. So sellers need to make sure that their property shines. Indoors and outdoors should be immaculate, and all clutter should be removed. Many sellers believe that they need to be present during showings. Wow, what a big mistake this is! Nothing gives a buyer a more uneasy feeling than a clingy seller following them around and not allowing the agent to do their job. The next big deal killer is for the seller to take negotiations personally. Buyers are routinely being tough on sellers and asking for larger price reductions, help on closing costs or perhaps even seller’s financing. It is important for sellers to take this with a grain of salt (or tequila as the case may be!) and understand that this is just part of the business transaction. It is not about the seller, it is about the buyer being careful and trying to get the best deal possible. Therefore, sellers should not sneer at offers. Sure, many buyers are making “lowball” offers right now. But that does not mean they do not want to buy the property! It means that they DO have interest and they DO want to buy the property! So negotiate Mr. Seller! Do not procrastinate and do not obstinate. Finally the sellers need to check up on their agent. Gone are the days when an agent could just throw a sign up in front of a property and expect multiple offers in a matter of days. Market conditions are much tougher now and making a sale requires sound marketing, dedication, knowledge, and superb communication and negotiation skills. Sellers should make sure their agent is a member of AMPI in good standing, get references from previous clients and interview their agent in depth before selecting the best person for the job. And once that is done, they should listen to their agent and trust their knowledge and expertise. OK, time is up for now, but don’t worry Mr. Buyer, we will have some advice for you next week!
Do you have a question about Real Estate in Puerto Vallarta? Just ask!

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

Virgin America Sets Its Sights on Puerto Vallarta Route

Last week, Virgin America, California’s hometown airline, announced its intent to launch flights from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR) in Mexico. Virgin America filed with the U.S. Department of Transportation for the authority to fly to PVR and subject to approval from both the U.S. DOT and the Mexican government, the airline plans to begin flying to Puerto Vallarta this winter. The announcement of the Company’s third U.S. – Mexico route comes as the low-fare airline has expanded service to Dallas-Fort Worth, Los Cabos, Cancun and Chicago in the past eight months alone.
“We’ve seen a strong demand for travel to our Mexican destinations and we’re looking forward to giving our flyers another world-class leisure option,” said Virgin America President and CEO David Cush. “We’re proud to be growing and offering travelers a very unique flight experience at a time when most airlines are shrinking their schedules and reducing the amenities provided to flyers.”
With top-notch guest service, beautiful design and a host of high-tech amenities, Virgin America has captured a list of industry best-in-class awards in only four years of operation. The airline offers unrivalled value with low fares and innovative features like touch-screen personal seatback entertainment, power outlets at every seat, fleet wide WiFi, mood-lit cabins and custom-designed leather seating with a deeper and more comfortable pitch. The Red™ in-flight entertainment platform offers 30 films, live and premium TV, interactive Google Maps, music videos, videogames, seat-to-seat chat, a 3000 MP3 library, a first-of-its-kind digital Shop section and an on-demand menu — so guests can order a cocktail or meal from their seatback any time during a flight.
Virgin America has captured a string of industry best-in-class awards, including “Best Domestic Airline” in Conde Nast Traveler’s 2008, 2009 and 2010 Readers’ Choice Awards, best-in-class in the 2008, 2009 and 2010 Zagat Global Airline survey and recently won “Best Domestic Airline” in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards for the fourth consecutive year. Earlier this year, the airline also took top honors for “Passenger Service” in Air Transport World’s Industry Achievement Awards and “Best Low-Cost Service” and “Best Staff Service” among North American competitors in the 2011 World Airline Awards.
Since its launch in August 2007, Virgin America has created 2000 new jobs and grown to serve multiple destinations across North America. As one of the few growing U.S. airlines, Virgin America continues to expand its fleet, growing from its current 39 aircraft to a projected fleet of 52 aircraft by mid-2012. The airline will add 500 new jobs on annual basis and expand to two-to-three new destinations per year over the next several years.
Virgin America flies to San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, Washington D.C., Seattle, Las Vegas, San Diego, Boston, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, Dallas-Fort Worth, Los Cabos, Cancun and Chicago.
About Virgin America: Headquartered in California, Virgin America offers guests attractive fares and a host of innovative features aimed at reinventing air travel. In just over three years flying, Virgin America was named “Best Domestic Airline” in the Conde Nast Traveler 2008, 2009 and 2010 Readers’ Choice Awards and “Best Domestic Airline” in Travel + Leisure’s 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011 World’s Best Awards. Virgin America is a U.S. owned and operated airline that has created 2,000 jobs and welcomed more than 12 million guests since its August 2007 launch. The airline’s new aircraft offer interactive in-flight entertainment systems and power outlets near every seat. Virgin America offers Gogo™ WiFi on every flight and hosts the largest in-flight entertainment library in the North American skies via the touch-screen Red™ platform. In 2011, the airline announced plans to nearly triple its fleet size by 2019 and placed the first orders for the new eco-efficient Airbus A320neo and CFM LEAP engine. In April, the airline opened its new home as an anchor tenant at SFO’s sleek and sustainable new Terminal 2 (T2). For more: www.virginamerica.com

Ask The Mortgage Experts

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With mortgages becoming more of the norm in Mexico and with ever-increasing loan options, The Tribune is helping sort through the confusion by having your personal Financing/Mortgage questions answered by our local experts – David Schwendeman and Terence Reilly, Founder’s of MEXLend, an industry-leading Mortgage Broker based in Vallarta. We invite you to e-mail your questions regarding buying or financing Real Estate in Mexico to buyinginmexico@hotmail.com.
Q: “How Can I Fix Problem Credit If I Live In Mexico?” Anna Garcia, Puerto Vallarta, MX
A: Part 1
The best way to ensure good credit is to manage debt wisely from the start. Borrowing within your means, using credit cards responsibly, and most importantly – making monthly payments ON TIME is the key to keeping those all important credit scores where they need to be.
However, it would be naïve to expect everyone, everywhere to follow that advice consistently. In fact, it is rare that we as mortgage professionals come across a client who hasn’t, at least at some point in their life, had a credit issue to contend with. The good news is bad credit – depending on how bad – can sometimes be repaired. However, it can take time patience and often cash to get the job done.
Typically, a mortgage broker will run what is known as a tri-merge credit report very early on in the borrower’s applications process. Often clients will provide their own as a basis - since these days it is much easier for the general public to have access to their personal credit information. Though, it should be emphasized that mortgage brokers are required by our lenders to provide a specific, specialized type of report that most people do not have access to on their own.
This, comprehensive, tri-merge report gives data from Experian, Equifax and Trans Union – the 3 major credit reporting agencies. Each of these agencies issues its own version of scoring credit – anywhere from 300 to 850. Most Banks will use the middle score when determining loan approval. So if the lending bank’s middle score requirement is 680 (typically required for Cross Border Loans, however, occasionally we can work with lower numbers) and a borrower’s scores come in at 672 – 686 and 690, respectively, then the borrower will likely qualify – 686 being the middle score. The reasons scores and data can differ between the 3 agencies are complex and could require a book or at least several articles to explain. But let it suffice that credit data can be interpreted differently, particularly when computer analysis is involved.


MEXLend, Inc. is a Mexican mortgage brokerage that currently represents 8 different lenders offering 75 different loan options in Dollars, Pesos and Euros for buyers looking to purchase vacation or investment property throughout Mexico – including products specifically for Canadian citizens. In announced results based upon post-closing client interviews conducted by Mexico’s largest US lender, MEXLend won the #1 mark of distinction for both client satisfaction and fastest closings for the second straight cycle. MEXLend can be reached at 322-132-7991 (in Vallarta), 917-779-9061 (while in the US or Canada), toll–free in Mexico by calling 1-800-3-Mi-Casa or go online at www.mexlend.com (For US and Euro loans) or www.mexlend.com.mx for Peso loans.

Eat Your Greens Dude!

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My brother has just gone through a physical and emotional trying time with dealing with prostrate cancer. I want you guys to know, there is a couple of things you can do for yourself to PREVENT it.
Here goes…first the scary stats.
Prostate cancer kills more men than any other kind except for lung cancer. Each year, 680,000 men worldwide are diagnosed with the disease and about 220,000 will die from it.
Now the info…
Just a few additional portions of broccoli each week could protect men from prostate cancer. Researchers believe a substance called isothiocyanate in the broccoli sparks hundreds of genetic changes, activating some genes that fight cancer and switching off others that fuel tumors.
Broccoli (as compared to other cruciferous vegetables) has a particularly powerful type of sulforaphane, which the researchers believe gives broccoli its particular cancer-fighting properties. It appears that broccoli contains the necessary ingredients to switch ON genes that prevent cancer development, and switch OFF other ones that help it spread
The benefit derived from broccoli would likely also be available from other cruciferous vegetables that contain isothiocyanate, including Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, cabbage, arugula, watercress and horseradish.
How Much Broccoli do You Have to Eat to Reap These Benefits?
Studies have indicated that people who consume more than one portion of cruciferous vegetables per week are at lower risk of prostate cancer. In the study I mentioned above, the control group ate four extra servings of broccoli for 1 year…then, the researchers collected tissue samples over the course of the study and found that the men who ate broccoli showed hundreds of beneficial changes in genes known to play a role in fighting cancer!
That’s pretty impressive. What’s even more impressive is the fact that you don’t have to make that drastic of a change to reap the benefits. After all, one serving of broccoli equates to about two spears. So we’re only talking approximately 10 spears a week, big deal, right? You can exchange potatoes for steamed broccoli …steak and broccoli, not a bad combo.
Best type of veggies..
While I believe foods, especially vegetables, are a far smarter choice to treat serious health challenges like cancer than using most drugs, all foods may still not be the right choice for you. And even though vegetables are one of the healthiest food categories on the planet, not all vegetables are beneficial for everyone.
This is where a deep appreciation of nutritional typing will assist you in selecting the best vegetables for you.
One of the most serious mistakes is for a protein type,(meat eater type O blood) to consume many dark green vegetables. This tends to over-alkaline your system and worsens rather than improves your health if you’re a protein type.
However, other vegetables such as cauliflower, which happen to be beneficial for protein types, can also have a similar effect.
I want you to be aware of just how important it is to understand your body at a deeper level, because if you are a protein type and were to eat broccoli, the other effects of broccoli might push your metabolic biochemistry in the wrong direction and thus override its benefits.
The best way to understand specifically what foods are ideal for your body in particular is to learn your nutritional type. When you eat properly for your particular type, you will experience increased daily energy, improved emotional well-being, a feeling of satiety and satisfaction, and, of course, optimized health and weight so you live longer with a better quality of life.
However, even if you were a mixed or vegetarian/carb type and broccoli are good for you, ( smaller muscle mass, A, B, AB blood types) there may be an even better way to get these cancer-fighting benefits than eating whole broccoli!
Better Than Broccoli?
Small quantities of fresh broccoli sprouts contain as much cancer protection as larger amounts of the mature vegetable sold in local food markets.
Just 5 grams (0.17 ounces) of sprouts contain concentrations of the compound glucoraphanin (a precursor to sulforaphane) equal to that found in 150 grams (5.2 ounces) of mature broccoli. Another major benefit is that the sprouts don’t smell since you don’t have to cook them. They are eaten raw, usually as an addition to salad. (Local source, www.organic-select.com )
NITTY GRITTY
1. Optimize your vitamin D levels with appropriate sun exposure.by taking morning sun before 11a.m., or after 4 p.m.
2. Cut out processed sugars…that means honey and sugar substitutes too.,. Eliminate sugar as much as possible as it’s been shown again and again that sugar feeds cancer. Use Agave or stivia to satisfy your sweet tooth.
3. Get appropriate exercise. One of the primary reasons exercise works is that it drives your insulin levels down. Controlling insulin levels is one of the most powerful ways to reduce your cancer risks.
4. IP6 (phytic acid) is a powerful tool to lower high iron levels (serum ferritin levels). Excess iron can be a major cause of many cancers.
5. Selenium - 400 mcg per day.
6. Consume freshly ground flaxseeds or chia seeds - two ounces every other day.
7. Vitamin E - 400 units per day. (Please note: Only natural vitamin E should be used, not synthetic. Additionally, mixed tocopherol is more preferable than alpha-tocopherol, as the gamma tocopherols are particularly useful antioxidants.)
8. Consume fresh vegetable juice daily - including one small tomato (lycopene) if you do not have arthritis, other good ones are wheat grass and beet juice…invest in a good juicer and the Juice Man book.
9. Eat broccoli or cauliflower sprouts, depending on your nutritional type.
10. Have a tool to permanently erase the neurological short-circuiting that can activate cancer genes. Even the CDC states that 85 percent of disease is caused by emotions. It is likely that this factor may be more important than all the other physical ones listed here, so make sure this is addressed. My favorite tool is meditation, yoga, down time.
11. Get enough high-quality sleep!
12. Reduce your exposure to environmental toxins heavy metals and pesticides
13. Boil, poach or steam your foods, rather than frying or charbroiling them.
14. Eliminate your intake of processed foods, chips, dips, salsas, canned soup, etc. etc.
15. Cut out the processed salt and turn to the natural salt, there are some local salts from the coast of Jalisco that are good.
16. Avoid IMPORTED FOODS, its gassed at the border with some very nasty stuff.
The power of food in normalizing chronic disease and helping you achieve optimal health is quite profound and the reason that I am so obsessed with diet among other things.

The Bay Today

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This ocean is beautiful at the moment, it´s got everything we have patiently been waiting for over the past 6 months. Clear, warm water that is full of some of the most fantastic creatures.
The visibility is amazing in most places. This is a term we use to guess the distance we can clearly see into the distance. Last week, off the beach at Mismaloya, I could see for 100 feet! Crazy good. I can clearly see my divers and they can clearly see everything I am pointing out. The same story was to be told at Majahuitas and good old Los Arcos has 70 foot plus. It also means that all you snorkelers can now see all the fish too.
Los Arcos has had many sightings of dolphins over the past few weeks, and the manta´s are out and about. Dolphins are enjoyed by everyone and are fairly common while the manta´s are not seen so often, so are a special sight for people to watch. The two words I use to describe them are charismatic and mega. Where ever you are diving in the world, swimming with a manta makes it a great dive. They are graceful creatures who fly around the ocean at great speed using seemingly little effort. Manta’s are totally harmless and often enjoy swimming amongst people. If you get lucky, you can see them leaping out of the water, and that really is a sight to behold.
Manta rays are huge creatures and can have wingspans of 30 feet, but the average span is about 20 feet and they can weigh up to 3,000lbs. When they get to around 14 feet in wingspan, they are ready to breed. They give birth to live young, who are themselves not small, being around 4 feet in span and weighing in at 20 – 30lbs! Fortunately for mum, they only give birth to one or two at a time.
There is still a lot of research to be done on manta´s and many facts to find out. This is not an easy job as they are near impossible to keep in aquariums to study as they are so big. Only 4 are held captive in the world at the moment.
Something else we have seen this week is a sea otter. I didn´t know they made it this far down, as they like cold water, but this little fella did. We were with some friends at Burros, where the guys were surfing and I was falling in the ocean a lot. I didn´t mind though as I got to spend more time in the water with this little sea otter, who was with us for a couple of hours, playing and enjoying some company. He seemed to be all alone as we didn´t see another one there all afternoon. I had never seen one before, but hope they have decided to relocate as they are so cute and playful.

Learning Spanish

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Travelling internationally is a great gift for children as it creates an awareness of other cultures, traditions and languages.
Because children learn faster at an earlier age, it is a perfect time for them to learn Spanish. A whole new world will open up to them, allowing for increased cognitive, social and vocational development. Here are just some of the lifetime benefits:
• Improved listening ability for sound distinctions
• Increased understanding of their own native language as well as an appreciation for other countries and cultures
• Greater confidence when travelling and working with others from foreign countries
• Improved intellectual development resulting in higher test scores and advanced educational placement
• Enhanced marketability in the business world
Learning a new language can be an exciting goal but it can also be frustrating and overwhelming at times. That’s when you have to keep it fresh and creative. Here are some ideas to help your family learn Spanish.

We all know that reading to a child allows them to learn new words and make associations. Try alternating your child’s nightly reading schedule. Read an English book one night and a Spanish book the next. This will enable them to learn two languages at once.

Puerto Vallarta has so many wonderful books with characters that your child may already know and some new characters that they are going to love. Many local bookstores and supermarkets have a wide variety of picture and activity books, magazines and young adult novels to enjoy.

Passive listening is an important part of picking up a second language and you can do this by playing Spanish music in the house, in the car or at the beach. Song lyrics have repetitive melodies which help with memory by reinforcing new vocabulary and syntax. Many PV stores offer a wide selection of Spanish CDs for all ages and interests.
When education is combined with interaction, it’s easy to forget that you are learning! Board games, number games, memory games, they are all incredibly helpful. The Mexican game of chance, Loteria, is similar to Bingo, a game that many children already know. Instead of using numbers, it uses pictures and corresponding words. This is an easy way for children to learn the Spanish name and spelling of objects.
For kids who love computer games, there are numerous software programs that teach Spanish. Pick up some games and take them home to encourage your child’s enthusiasm and progress.
Other methods include labeling objects in your home, office or classroom using Post-it notes with Spanish names. Put together an “A to Z” photo project by taking pictures of items around town that begin with an A, B, C and so on. Be sure to use the Spanish word and see how many you can collect by the end of your stay.
Young children love to interact with puppets so use these child-friendly characters to tell a story or practice new vocabulary words.
Go to a movie that with Spanish subtitles or watch a DVD in Spanish.
While dining at a Mexican restaurant, study the menu and identify ingredients that are used such as pollo (chicken), leche (milk), queso (cheese), arroz (rice) and verduras (vegetables).
Literally hundreds if not thousands of words are very similar in spelling, if not the same, in English and Spanish. Make it a game to discover how many of these words your family can identify.
Attend a Spanish class. Anything that you can do as a family will provide encouragement and enthusiasm for your child. Numerous resorts offer beginning classes and several language schools around town have multilevel courses. Private tutors are also available for an hourly rate.
Buena suerte y disfruta tu estancia en México! (Good luck and enjoy your stay in Mexico!)

Our Lady of Guadalupe Church: A Puerto Vallarta Icon

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Standing proudly over the City’s central plaza, Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, with its famous crown is the focal point of the Vallarta skyline. It is a symbol of Puerto Vallarta known throughout the world. It is also the focal point for the famous Festival of Our Lady of Guadalupe.
Our Lady of Guadalupe Church is a beautiful example of local architecture and an embodiment of local spirit. It is a unique combination of several architectural styles. On the hour you can hear the magnificent sounds of the Church bells ringing from the tower. Upon entering the Church, you are struck by its splendid simplicity and the air of calm that it bestows on visitors. The plain, white-washed walls are dramatically embellished with richly detailed moldings. On a sunny day - which is most of the time in Vallarta - the sunlight shines through stained glass windows to illuminate the gilt-trimmed altar with a warm glow. During the Christmas Holidays, the Church’s hand carved columns are adorned with festive wreaths. Regardless your religious convictions, the beauty of Our Lady of Guadalupe is worth a visit
Construction of the Church started in1903 around a small chapel that was already there. In 1915 the decision to build a larger church was made. Due to a number of intervening issues including a war, which stopped the building for a time, the main tower was not completed until 1952 and the original church crown wasn’t installed until 1963. Rumor has it that the crown is a replica of the tiara worn by Carlota, mistress of Emperor Maximilian in the 1800’s.
La Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, as it’s known by locals, is open daily. English services are held on Saturdays at 5 p.m., Spanish and English mass takes place every Sunday at 10 a.m. The bells ring 30 and 15 minutes before each mass.

Paper Maché Figurines in Puerto Vallarta

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Paper Maché Figurines are one of Puerto Vallarta’s most sought after crafts; mainly representations of Mexican culture, these figurines can be made into the shape of old people, the mythical alebrijes or the ever-popular catrinas, and skeleton-like figures. There are no rules to this art form; sometimes paper maché figurines are in the shape of famous personalities or the artists’ free-handed creativity.
While these figurines are notoriously Mexican, they originate from countries like India, China and Persia, where they were also created to serve as decorative artifacts. Paper Maché comes from the French “papier maché”, literally meaning chewed paper, and original method of preparing these hand-made crafts.
Now a days Mexico makes many arts from paper maché: piñatas, masks figurines as well as small decorations and souvenirs.
The traditional paper maché figurines are very popular in Puerto Vallarta. You’ll find them everywhere, from Rio Cuale Market and Square to downtown’s independent boutiques, or any of Vallarta’s numerous art galleries, where you’ll also find many other peculiar-looking art figures.

Georgia Ballet performance at Teatro Vallarta is postponed

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The renowned National Ballet of Georgia, once the pride of the Soviet Union, due to a tour change will be performing 1 show only, Sunday, September 4, at 6:00 pm, at Vallarta’s performing arts venue, Teatro Vallarta.
Established in 1945 by dance masters Iliko Sukhishvili and Nino Ramishvili, The National Ballet of Georgia is renowned for strong and agile dancers and performances full of color, vitality and cultural symbolism that reflect this former Soviet Union state. Now under the guidance of Tengiz Sukhishvili, Iliko’s son, as their Artistic Director and Manager, in Italy the company was proclaimed “The Best Folkloric Ballet in the World.” Featured pieces will encompass issues that are important to this region; including roles of men and women, stories of war and of ancient rituals and worship. The magic of how The National Ballet of Georgia performs is discovered in their technique of dancing and astonishing acrobatic leaps using only their toes.
For 3 generations, the Sukhishvili family has dedicated their life to the formation of The National Ballet of Georgia and has traveled the world and has appeared on the most important stages for the past 50 years.
Tickets are $300 Pesos for general seating, $400 Pesos for preferred seating and $500 Pesos for VIP seating and are available at Vallarta Fitness in Plaza Galerias, at Plaza Caracol, at Señor Frogs in Nuevo Vallarta and at the theatre’s box office Tuesday through Saturday from 11 am to 9 pm.
 

More than just fresh produce at Palmar de Aramara Market

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Located in the Aurora neighborhood, just steps away from Sam’s Club, you’ll find the Palmar de Aramara Market, a great option to find daily fresh produce, meats and seafood in Puerto Vallarta.
The Market offers a wide variety of products including meats, seafood, poultry, fruit, tortillas, dairy, fresh flowers; hardware stores, veterinaries, laundry mats and specialty boutiques can also be found.
Some of our favorite eateries are:
Tacos de Mariscos Nancy (Seafood Tacos), features beer-battered fish & shrimp and marlin tacos; shrimp burgers; seafood burritos along with their special sauces and dressings.
Bonsai is a Japanese restaurant established in the area over ten years ago. They offer an extensive menu with some of our old-time favorites: over eighteen different sushi rolls, Teppanyaki (steamed vegetables), Kushi Age (breaded seafood shish kabobs), Yakitori (sweet and sour shish kabobs) and Yakimeshi (steamed fried rice). Don’t forget your Calpico (traditional Japanese drink).
Huaraches y Quesadillas Yessy serves homemade huaraches, deep-fried oval-shaped tortilla topped with your choice of meats, quesadillas, and fresh fruit-flavored water.
Perfect for this summer season, Aguas Frescas Tropicales renders over 60 different flavored-drinks, including horchata, strawberry, coconut, pineapple, Jamaica, passion fruit and mandarin to name a few.
The Palmar de Aramara Market is without a doubt another great spot to visit this summer.

SPCA Weekly Newsletter

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SPECIAL PLEA

Things are pretty bleak lately regarding adoptions and foster homes. We know there are a number of our friends and supporters who leave for the low season and we find ourselves in dire straits right now.
We have at least six dogs that have been with us for a while now and we are up to 16 cats at the last count. We are asking that everyone please pass the word to friends who may not be privy to our newsletter or press releases. There just must be folks out there looking for a companion animal to adopt or can foster for a period of time until a permanent home is found.
Please, please contact us if you or anyone you know can assist us in taking care of these wonderful animals that just deserve a chance. If you can assist, please contact us via our website (www.spcapv.com) or send an email to spcapv@gmail.com.


ADORABLE DOG SPOTLIGHT...Honey


Is she not the cutest? Honey is a female about a year old and weighs 18 kilos. She was rescued from the new Wal-Mart parking lot where she was living after giving birth to her first litter of six puppies. All the puppies have found homes and now it is her turn.
Peggy, who fostered Honey, tells us: “She was a good caregiver to the puppies and is a delightful, lively dog. She was not very good on the leash at first, but with some work she now loves walking and is very good on the leash. She loves attention and to cuddle and is a kind, gentle dog. She is good with kids and cats.”


ADORABLE CATS IN THE SPOTLIGHT

There are so many beautiful, loving cats looking for homes. It’s impossible to choose just one to spotlight. We have a number of felines of all ages looking for forever homes. They are currently being cared for by a few of our dedicated volunteers and brought to the library each Saturday. Hopefully one of these photos will give you pause and motivate you to give him/her a loving home.
There are a number of advantages when adopting a young adult cat versus a kitten. Although still playful, a young cat is less likely to get underfoot as a kitten. They are healthy, having been spayed/neutered and vaccinated. At this age they are housebroken, i.e. litter trained, socialized and less likely to get into “trouble”.
Also importantly, you will know your cat’s basic personality, his likes and dislikes. (Believe me, he’ll let you know.) Bonding continues to be important, and your continued good care will strengthen your cat’s trust in you, which is vital to your relationship.
To see all the animals available for adoption, visit our website (www.spcapv.com or
www.spcapv.blogspot.com). The SPCA PV will continue to host adoption events at Biblioteca Los Mangos every Saturday from 10am - 2pm. Biblioteca Los Mangos is located on Francisco Villa around the corner from Costco.


ADOPTION REPORT
There were seven dogs and eleven cats at the library this weekend available for adoption. We were fortunate to find forever homes for two cats (Max and Puss Puss).

Special thanks to our dedicated volunteers who brave the hot, humid temperatures each Saturday. This week’s volunteers were Gina, Natalia, Lily, Fernando, John and Shanon ( new volunteer ). As always we are grateful to Sandra for her photos and continued dedication, as well as our volunteer extraordinaire Luz.


WEBMASTER NEEDED

Kevin Harney who has been updating our website for some time cannot do it anymore. We are looking for anyone who can take over this responsibility. If you have the skill set necessary, and would consider donating time to our organization, please contact Janice Chatterton (Janice@haciendasanangel.com) or email us at spcapv@gmail.com.

And thank you Kevin for all your past efforts.
Photos courtesy of Sandra Briones (www.sandorafoto.com)

Puerto Vallarta’s Historic Rio Cuale Market

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The Rio Cuale Market is one of Puerto Vallarta’s oldest neighborhoods: rich in tradition and history. Located in the midst of historic downtown Vallarta, you are sure to find the perfect souvenir from your visit, albeit traditional garb, jewelry, crafts, etc.

There’s no better way to get to know us than by visiting our main market. Puerto Vallarta’s Rio Cuale Market harnesses the best that the city has to offer; it’s a place where you can observe many of Vallarta’s idiosyncrasies.

The Market’s history dates back to the 1950’s when “polleras”, women who made a living from selling traditional Mexican dishes like pozole, chicken gorditas and café de olla (cinnamon coffee), set the standard of what the market is today.

With the 1960’s came constant growth to Puerto Vallarta’s Rio Cuale Market. It is then that the present facilities were constructed and inaugurated on November 28th 1979 by then Governor Flavio Romero Velasco and Mayor Eugenio Torres Ramírez.

Back then, the square served more as a farmer’s market catering to the people’s needs with meat and fish stands, fresh produce, etc. It wasn’t until the 1980’s that it began to take a more tourist-friendly approach.

The Rio Cuale Market is made up of two floors where you can find nic nacs like: key chains, t-shirts, coffee and tea mugs, beach dresses, hats, wrestling masks, bathing suits, and an infinite amount of traditional Mexican souvenirs. Don’t forget to check out one of the small restaurants serving breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Nowadays, the market has a total of 155 stores, of which 18 are food-related, and 137 sell other miscellaneous commodities.

Being that it’s Puerto Vallarta’s most famous market, it’s welcomed celebrities like: Jorge Rivero, Pedro Fernández; Ofelia; Medina, Michelle Vieth; Lilia Mendiola de Chi (best known as Lyn May); Rocío Durcal, who shopped for the wardrobe featured in her music video “La Guirnalda”(1986), filmed on the beaches of Puerto Vallarta; and most recently the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders, to name a few.

Come and relish from our authentic Mexican flavors and folklore, where all visitors are welcomed with open arms.

The Power of Intuition

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It happened that while visiting with a psychotherapist friend, we got into the subject of the connection of awaking the power of intuition and getting in touch with ones personal spiritual gifts as a tool in working through unsettled situations. This statement got me thinking that everyone has the power of intuition, spiritual gifts and capacities that are meant to be used to guide and direct our lives. We have become conditioned to using our physical senses and logical thinking as the compass to how we proceed with life. By fine-tuning our intuition, observing life’s road signs such as coincidences, we will be able to choose more effortlessly, with fewer detours, the direction we could be taking. That’s called being “on purpose”.
Spiritual gifts include intuition, discernment, precognition, spiritual empathy, compassion, visionary skills, perception, powers of healing oneself and others, telepathy and the overall feeling of abundance and joy.
Intuition is a clear knowledge or insight of what is right for you, free of any logical or rational processes. Intuition is a function of the sixth chakra. Chakras are energy stations in a line along the front of the body and head. Intuition is common for all of us. Accessing and developing intuition is a natural gift that can be developed and fine-tuned. With the natural gifts of nurturing (maybe that’s why mothers are naturally intuitive) comes the sixth sense, or “gut” feeling,
The sixth chakra is located in the center of the brow, above both eyes, just above the bridge of the nose. In metaphysics, it is referred to as the “third eye. My friend claims you can activate these areas of your body and energy fields to increase levels of intuition and pure knowing of right action in tough situations.
Here is a couple of exercises and observations you can practice to get the energy flowing.
Stop justifying, defending and explaining yourself in your day-to-day conversations. Every time you do, you discount what you “know” to be true and right for you. Embrace your truth and wear it boldly.
Imagine you have a third eye situated at the point mentioned above. Place your middle finger on the bridge of your nose and push up a couple of inches, breathing deeply, imagining you are opening the eyelid. This is a tool you can use before going into a confusing and difficult situation.
Practice yoga meditation, prayer, observation and song.
We are essentially spiritual and highly intuitive beings. Sometimes we run into trouble trusting what we know, and all too often look outside ourselves for permission or validation. Confusion sets in when are actions and attitudes are in conflict with intuition. Confusion and anxiety (stress) is your inner self sending red lights and flags. You may be able to pull off this role playing for a while, but sooner or later, your true nature will unfold, like a caged bird taking flight, this causes confusion around you.
So, trust your gut feelings. All your answers are inside you waiting to be awakened and shared. Both men and women, who are willing to use their intuition, play a great role in our present time and the changes in the near future. Trust your inner knowing, develop your intuition, and you will enrich your life by being true to yourself the lives of those around you.

Japanese Art Exposition in Full Swing

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Friday July 1 saw the opening of Puerto Vallarta’s first major exposition of Japanese art held in the city’s Centro Internacional de Convenciones, marking the start of a series of free workshops and conferences as well as screenings of Japanese cinema.
The Mayor, Salvador González Resendiz,and his wife Jennifer Serur, the local Secretary for Culture, Mónica Venegas, the president of Puerto Vallarta’s tourist board, Ignacio Guzmán and various other local dignitaries and politicians welcomed over 15 Japanese artists and the president of the Club des Amis de l’Europe et des Arts, Mariko Magori, who is in charge of organizing the traveling exposition. As is customary in Japan, the opening cocktail saw the exchange of gifts in a respectful display of generosity and ceremony.
The exhibition, organized and co-funded by the Club des Amis de l’Europe et des Arts and the International Arts Council with the support of the Jalisco state and local council, boasts a range of artistic disciplines employed by over 200 Japanese artists, including painting, calligraphy and etching. Accompanying the exhibition there are also a number of free workshops and Japanese cinema screenings open to the public. See the timetable for dates and times of activities.
With the Malecon under construction, for visitors and residents of Puerto Vallarta, the exhibition and workshops are the perfect way to entertain the family in July and gain a taste of Japanese culture. It is also a chance to visit the city’s conference center, whose modern architecture poses an intriguing contrast to the typical architecture found in Puerto Vallarta.
The exhibition and workshops continue until July 15.

González Reséndiz oversees progress of Libramiento Tunnel

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González Reséndiz oversees progress of Libramiento’s Second Tunnel Mayor Salvador González Reséndiz, visting the Libramiento’s Second Tunnel construction, expressed his continued support for Puerto Vallarta’s City Hall to move forward with the project.

Both the Mayor, Salvador González Reséndiz, and Ing. Victor Fernández, Director of Public Works completed a walk-through along the space being constructed in Libramiento’s Second Tunnel.

At this point in time, multiple steel tubes covering the tunnel are being set in place.

All parties involved, are working carefully in an effort to protect the general population, the workers themselves and the machinery. They are also working on the left hand side of the south end of the Libramiento by-pass, excavating the hillside to add two new lanes.

Currently, cylindrical mesh, covered with layers of cement are being placed accordingly to avoid any mudslides, especially during the rainy season.

Puerto Vallarta’s Night Life Options

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Puerto Vallarta’s nights come to life with the wide array of nightlife choices catering anyone’s lifestyle, amongst them are the ever popular live music bars.
The city offers many choices for music lovers, just about all genres all present. Some mix a bit of everything, catering to everyone’s likes. For example, the world renowned “Hard Rock Café”, located across from the Malecón, offers classic rock, with the house band playing only rock covers by Led Zeppelin, Metallica, Guns n’ Roses and so forth. They play the best rock from the 60’s, 70’s, 80’s, 90’s and 00’s in both English and Spanish.
If you’re seeking a more mixed genre, you have to check out “Bebotero”. Also located on the Malecón, with a direct ocean view, the house band can play English and Spanish rock tunes one night, System of a Down the next and yet another night a little Bob Marley. This bar tries to offer more variety to the guest. Live music Monday through Sunday.
One of the Romantic Zone’s newest option is “Pura Vida”, which offers a surf concept with live ska/reggae every Friday and Saturday. The repertoire includes songs by Los Fabulosos Cadillacs, Panteón Rococó, Salón Victoria etc. You’ll also have a chance of listening to the band’s original music.
Also in the Romantic Zone is a great little spot called “O’Rourke’s Pub”, where new and varied musical guests are frequently spotted. If you’re looking for something other than rock or ska/reggae, this is your place. They usually feature artists with a bit more funk.

BLUE SKY, BLUE SEA

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The curve
Of the earth in sight,
White sails, light wind

Move us
Through crusted waves
Across the sea’s vast surface.

Our spirits,
Like swift winged birds
Take flight and briefly lift,

To soar
In the immensity
Of blue sky, blue sea.

Staying Green While on Vacation

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Children learn the 3 R’s (reduce, reuse, recycle) in school and certainly at home, but being able to recycle while on vacation may prove to be difficult. Yes, recycling while you travel may require extra thought and effort but as my favorite elementary teacher would say, “We cannot afford to take a vacation from caring for the environment.”
Before tossing that soda can or dirty bandana in the trash think about this: it takes 100 to 400 years for things like aluminum and cloth to decompose. You might think twice when throwing away your glass bottles as glass has been found to be in perfect condition after 4,000 years in the earth.
With these statistics, it is so important that our children learn at an early age how to care for our environment, no matter where we are.
Mexico is a beautiful country, rich in resources and natural beauty, and we would like to keep it that way for generations to come. Whether you are a full time resident or here for a brief stay, it is up to all of us to follow the “leave it better than you found it” principle by disposing our trash and recyclables in the proper bins.
Because there are many people who are passionate about this movement, several local groups have been formed to educate the community and lead by example. They include Ecologico de Puerto Vallarta, A.C. and the Recyclers of Bucerias.
In Puerto Vallarta, 500 tons of garbage is generated per day and by recycling, 50 tons of that can be reduced. There is certainly more to do and if you want to get involved while you are here, check out their website (www.grupoecologico.com) for more information and scheduled events.
If you are not able to volunteer time, perhaps you will be able to dispose of your recyclable waste at the following locations:

Metal Decks
Maria Teresa Gonzalez
Revolution esq. Genaro Padilla Pitillal Cologne
Telephone: 224-1739
Cell: 322-151-9243
Armando Gutierrez
Colonia San Salvador No. 234 December 5
Telephone: 223-2570
Cell: 322-306-0856

Don Domingo “Minguillar”
Avocado Colonia Emiliano Zapata No. 663

Used Battery Recycling
CECATI Matus No. 63 Rogelio Palacios
Hidalgo 300 esq. Colonia Centro Zaragoza
Municipal Utility
Pelicanos No. 136 esq. Alondra Col. Los Sauces
Telephone: 225-9659
OXXO Stores

Glass Bottles
Esc Tec Sec # 3 ETI
Col. Emiliano Zapata No. 350 Valentín Gómez Farías

Plastics
Gregorio Espinosa
Col. Boards (behind the Police Delegation)
Wire baskets located on the city streets, especially in Cologne Pitillal.

Newspapers
Animal Collection Center
Gold Coast Colony No. 703 Linda Vista
Telephone: 293-3690

Cardboard
Col. Mojoneras (in front of the Bonafont Water Company)
Col. Ixtapa
Paper,
Cardboard, Magazines
P. José de Jesús Barraza
Abasolo No. 439 Col. El Calvario
Cell: 322-111-3463
If you are in or around Bucerias, a small town north of Puerto Vallarta, the Recyclers of Bucerias will be happy to tell you about their program. They are a “not for profit” organization that operates solely on the kindness of volunteers who collect glass, cardboard, aluminum cans and plastic.

Large wire baskets throughout the neighborhoods have been placed for collection of aluminum and plastic. Cardboard and glass will need to be dropped off at their recycling center.
The money generated from recycling is used to improve the lives of Bucerias residents.
The efforts of The Recyclers of Bucerias have already made a difference. Almost 10 tons of material has been collected, therefore making it possible to donate over $7,000 pesos!
If you would like to lend an extra pair of hands, big and small, then please contact Barry at recyclers.of.bucerias@gmail.com.
They meet every Thursday (9 am) at “The Bucerias Recycling Center” on the corner of Calle Encino and Calle Invierno. They can always use help with pick-up and sorting which only takes a few hours. If you are able to join them, please wear work clothes and bring plenty of water and insect repellant.
Because children innately care for nature, they often love the experience of recycling to help protect the environment. Being able to do it in another country is an incredibly unique experience, one that can be shared at school or with other service organizations. So, consider spending some time minimizing your family’s “environmental footprint” while enjoying the beauty of Mexico.

Philo’s Bar

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Way up north the sun don’t hang around
And if you want to know where it’s been
Why, it just heads on down to Mexico
When the winter freeze sets in

In a little corner of Banderas Bay
You don’t need to wear no shoes
Yeah, they like to keep their tootsies tanned
In the town that’s called La Cruz

You watch the evening sun just a settling down
Till it’s melting right out of sight
And you can bet they’re dancing barefoot folks
Down at Philo’s bar tonight
Maybe something in the way the band does play
Or the way they like to mix a drink
But it’s like taking two steps back in time
Makes you feel younger than you’d think

Though the crowd ain’t no spring chickens
More what you’d like to call mature
But if there’s a treatment for becoming old
I’d say that Philo’s found the cure
You can keep your socks and your winter boots
With the laces pulled nice and tight
And you can bet they’re dancing barefoot folks
Down at Philo’s bar tonight

Yeah the daytime can get nice and hot
And when you’re talking bout centigrade
Each day is pretty much the same
It’s twenty seven in the shade
Then the afternoon brings a balmy breeze
You might be thinking you’re in paradise
It’s the time of day when the palm trees sway
And a siesta sure might be nice

You watch the evening sun just a settling down
Till it’s melting right out of sight
And you can bet they’re dancing barefoot folks
Down at Philo’s bar tonight

Playground Project for the Jardin de Niños Cuauhtemoc

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Thanks to the generosity of so many friends and neighbors the RECYCLERS of BUCERIAS and The Amigos de Bucerias have reached our donation goal of $20,000.00 pesos for playground equipment for the children of Jardin de Niños Cuauhtemoc. This completes the first phase of our Jardin de Niños Project.
The second phase of the playground project is to acquire the materials to build the playground equipment. After some research we believe that building from scratch and using recycled materials rather than purchasing an already manufactured product would give us more “bang for our buck” or in this case more “punch for our pesos”. To facilitate the second phase we have chosen Paul Dobos as our project manager. Paul has already spent hours on the design work and has come up with some very nice ideas for the Jardin de Niños Project.
Paul and his wife Cheryl are full-time Bucerias residents, members of the Amigos de Bucerias and long time volunteers for the RECYCLERS of BUCERIAS. Paul’s dedication to our community and his previous experience in construction and management make him a great choice for this project. Thank you for stepping up Paul.
As the Jardin de Niños Project progresses we will be submitting up dates to: www.amigosdebucerias.com so you all can see how things are going. We also will be looking for some motivated handy persons to sign on for Paul’s crew to help us build this project and accomplish our goal. You can contact Barry at: 322.158.6101 if you would like to sign up for the Jardin de Niños Project.
Last but by no means least our donors:
Pat & Dusty Strong, Robert Bruce, Robert Orthlieb, Anne & Bob Milling, Rene & Annie Turgeon, Walter Rhead, Bruce Cox, Karen Moore, Janet Coleman, Tim & Susan Schultz, Lisa & Wayne Elliott, Curt Firestone & Gwen McDonald, William Snow, Sheila & Joe Coster, Cheryl & Paul Dobos, Joe & Joy Dobos, Jane & Jim Tederman, Karen & Jerry Knapp, Jeanne Thomsen & Barry Munro, Karen & David King, Mike & Kasey Phillips, Pat & Norm LeBlanc, Rodney & Janis Zimmers, Kelly Lynch, Morris Fichtein & Livier Villalobos, Marcia & Noble Dunson, Bill & Mary Gillespie, Anne & GE Kruckenberg, Bob & Melissa Tucker, Leslie & Gerry Broadrib, Carsten, Nicole & Yi Thomsen, Jim & Marilyn Moxin, Jean Lindsay & Robert Snell, Steve & Leanne Sunderland, Horst & Magdalena, RECYCLERS of BUCERIAS and two anonymous donors.
If by chance I have left any donors off of this list, please forgive my oversight. We thank you all for your generosity.

Barry, Jerry and the recycling volunteers
RECYCLERS of BUCERIAS
322.158.6101

Ask The Mortgage Experts

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With mortgages becoming more of the norm in Mexico and with ever-increasing loan options, The Tribune is helping sort through the confusion by having your personal Financing/Mortgage questions answered by our local experts – David Schwendeman and Terence Reilly, Founder’s of MEXLend, an industry-leading Mortgage Broker based in Vallarta. We invite you to e-mail your questions regarding buying or financing Real Estate in Mexico to buyinginmexico@hotmail.com.

Q: I am hearing about long closing times here in Mexico. Is this true? What are the causes? Todd M. Phoenix, AZ.

A: This is a GREAT question. Thanks for asking. Real Estate Closings, whether cash or financed, take longer in Mexico than most Americans and Canadians are accustomed to.
Most of the time differential South-of-the-Border is brought about by the complexity of the transaction and the need to hold the property in Trust. It must be noted that any foreigner conducting business in Mexico, must obtain a permit through the Mexican department of foreign relations, or Secretaria de Relaciones Exteriorés. You can imagine the times involved in the US and Canada if we had to wait for permissions to be issued by the federal government before going forward with a home purchase! Also, when financing a real estate purchase in Mexico, the lending bank exercises its right to pour over all property documents extensively in order to protect the investment.
In the US or Canada, you are simply buying or selling a house—one legal task. As a foreigner in Mexico, you are (1) transferring ownership of a property (2) you are establishing a Real Estate Trust and (3) possibly, closing out an existing Real Estate Trust if you are buying from another foreigner. This constitutes three major legal maneuvers that would take just as much time in the US or Canada as here in Mexico….or more.
That said, there are ways to ensure that the financed transaction comes to the closing table as quickly as possible:

Choose your mortgage broker carefully.
Many brokers do not understand the laws and intricacies of Mexican real estate, yet still advertise and sell their services online. As the market gets tighter up North, more and more are looking towards Mexico. You want to work with a company who has a presence on the ground and preferably an office but at the very least, a body that can run your documents and expedite the various processes. Check with your realtors and ask around. In this case, a bargain broker – operating his Mexican business as a sideline to his US business is not the best option.
Beware of interest rate and closing cost estimates which are unrealistically low. It may be tempting to go with a broker who offers you an extremely attractive interest rate or lower closing costs – only to find out just prior to closing that your interest rate has gone up 2 percentage points and your closing costs are $15,000 higher than originally quoted. There are genuine variables which could, legitimately, cause your closing costs to be higher; such as certain fees paid in Pesos which have fluctuated against the Dollar by the time of closing OR a drop in credit score which could put a borrower into a higher interest category. However, it is not legitimate to simply not inform a client of half of the legally required costs involved.
Again, your Realtor or a trusted friend who’s already financed in Mexico is a good source of referral information. They’ll know which brokers perform and which do not.

The buyer should pre-qualify for a loan BEFORE signing any contracts.
This gives you peace of mind and also a realistic view of just how much of money you can borrow. Your broker will also give you a list of all of the documentation required for the loan and once you do sign a contract, you will have everything ready to submit to a lender, thus saving you and the seller much needed time.
Lending in Mexico is highly conservative and very safe. Clients must have credit scores frequently above 680 and be prepared to prove incomes via tax returns and bank statements. The quicker they provide that documentation, the quicker loan commitment will come from a lender and the faster a purchase can close. Once the client has loan commitment from a lender or bank, they must maintain their credit standing, as another report is often pulled just days before closing. We council our clients not to change their buying habits (don’t buy that new Mercedes!), and be absolutely certain to pay credit cards and mortgages on time.
Three: The seller must be the legitimate owner of the property and have ALL documentation ready to deliver BEFORE entering into a contract.
One hears of sellers disillusioned with the time frame involved in the financed transaction, but rarely do you hear the back story from that seller. In 9.9 out of ten cases, the causes for delays are directly linked to the seller not providing updated, clean property documentation in a timely fashion.
This inability or the lack of urgency on the part of the sellers to provide the property documentation is the leading factor in delayed closing times. A lender or broker cannot even start the closing process without current property documents from the legitimate seller of the property. All too often the seller will take weeks (or months) to provide these papers and then once when finally tendered, will demand that a closing occur immediately. This happens periodically, and unfortunately, things just don’t work that way. Here is why:
Lenders are conservative…all cash buyers, sad to say, are often not. A lender will not deem the property as worthy collateral if there are ANY improprieties or unpaid back taxes, bills, liens, zoning issues, etc. Sometimes, an unwary all cash buyer will plow through unknowingly and expect the open issues to be taken care of at the closing table or shortly thereafter. A bank or lender will never be this reckless.

Example:
Recently, we had a loan in processing where the seller did not pay the transfer tax at his original closing. This should never have occurred, but the original purchase was all cash and somehow transaction was allowed and recorded. This is not the buyer’s fault nor the current Realtor’s fault nor the Mortgage Broker’s fault It was the seller’s responsibility for trying to avoid a payment that was due years ago and became a huge problem to rectify in order for the current sale to close. Not only was there the question of the original taxes, but now they had non-payment penalties attached to them. Fortunately, we caught it and have rectified the situation on behalf of the seller - but it did take several weeks and stalled the deal for quite a while. We managed to keep the deal on track and get it closed, giving our client a property that is free and clear of encumbrances. To date, the seller does not recognize culpability in the delayed closing.

Unfortunately, a significant number of all cash buyers enter into transactions which do not benefit from adequate scrutiny and end up taking on the previous owner’s problems. A financed buyer will never face that problem. Yes it does take longer to dot all of the I’s and cross all of the T’s when a mortgage is involved – but all parties can rest comfortably that the transaction is secure. Wouldn’t you want any investment of this magnitude to be conducted as safely as possible?
When financing is utilized, if all documentation is ready and supplied to your mortgage broker and lender, financing should only add an additional week or two to an ordinary closing. The operative word in that previous sentence is…IF.
When both the seller and buyer are pro-active, closing times will be significantly shorter and the entire transaction smoother.
MEXLend, Inc. is a Mexican mortgage brokerage that currently represents 8 different lenders offering 75 different loan options in Dollars, Pesos and Euros for buyers looking to purchase vacation or investment property throughout Mexico – including products specifically for Canadian citizens. In announced results based upon post-closing client interviews conducted by Mexico’s largest US lender, MEXLend won the #1 mark of distinction for both client satisfaction and fastest closings for the second straight cycle. MEXLend can be reached at 322-132-7991 (in Vallarta), 917-779-9061 (while in the US or Canada), toll–free in Mexico by calling 1-800-3-Mi-Casa or go online at www.mexlend.com (For US and Euro loans) or www.mexlend.com.mx for Peso loans.

Ask a Realtor...

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Q: What is “Ejido” land? Can I buy it? Mario B. Chicago

A: Ejido land is communal land that was passed down to peasant communities after the Mexican Revolution. It is typically agricultural type land and is akin to Indian Reservation land in the United States. Ejido properties are off limits to the foreign community, despite the fact that many have “purchased the rights to use” these properties through what is called a “prestanombre” (literally translated, lent name). It is possible to “Regularize” ejido property and convert it into a fully titled property. This allows anyone, including foreigners, to ultimately own the property, but the process requires the agreement of the entire community that owns it. This process can be costly, time consuming (five years is not uncommon) and is not guaranteed. If you are not scared off by the above, find yourself a firm that specializes in the regulation of these properties and seek independent legal counsel as well.

Q: I want to take what is left of my 401(k), come down and buy a place off the beaten track and live like a local. My kids say I should rent a place first, then find an AMPI Realtor, make an extensive search, check out ALL the listings in the local MLS and learn more about the local culture and customs. They also want me to investigate banks, supermarkets, health care and immigration requirements. And if I find something I like, they want me to ask to see title to the property, consider having an inspection and survey and confirm that there are no liens or encumbrances against the property. Finally, they are INSISTING that I do not give any money to a seller before the closing, that I only put my deposit in a U.S. Escrow account and formalize any Real Estate documents in front of a Notario Publico! What advice can you give me in order to stop the nagging, get these know-it-alls off my back and live out my golden years in peace? Free Spirit, Pasadena

A: Kids can be so demanding these days! It is particularly frustrating when you have worked hard all your life to raise them and save enough for retirement. Hey, it is your money and those party poopers’ should just mind their own business. However, a Real Estate purchase is a big undertaking, especially in a foreign country. So here is what you should do: Consider renting a place first, then find an AMPI Realtor, make an extensive search, check out ALL the listings in the local MLS and learn more about the local culture and customs. Then, investigate banks, supermarkets, health care and immigration requirements. If you find something you like, ask to see title to the property, consider having an inspection and survey and confirm that there are no liens or encumbrances against the property. Finally, do not give any money to a seller before the closing, and put your deposit in a U.S. Escrow account and formalize any Real Estate documents in front of a Notario Publico!
Do you have a question about Real Estate in Puerto Vallarta? Just ask!

Active in local and national Real Estate boards; published author and acknowledged expert on Puerto Vallarta Real Estate, Michael Green moved here in 1997 to take advantage of the unsurpassed lifestyle PV offers. Mike can be reached at: Michael@tropicasa.com

Wreck Diving

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Scuba diving is about a lot more than looking at fish. Wreck diving is a specialized type of scuba diving that involves diving on shipwrecks and (sometimes) looking for sunken treasure. We do have shipwrecks in the ocean here, but unfortunately they are too deep for recreational divers to go and see. This is a shame as diving on shipwrecks is really interesting and wrecks, like reefs attract many fish, who make it there “home”. Coral grows on them quickly, making them a colourful sight.

In the 1940’s, a ship sank next to Los Arcos. The ship, rumour had it, was a bit special. It has doors of gold! The ship sunk in 500 feet of water, and it was impossible that someone (with the equipment they had at that time) could go that deep.
As with all mysterious treasure, there was a guardian: a gigantic grouper fish with eyes as large as a plate. The best divers tried to dive down to remove the valuable doors, but they failed to return with the booty. Some returned frightened, alleging that the fish was the size of a small boat while others simply did not return.
It is possible then, that the ship with its golden doors, is still there. And of course, the grouper?
There must be many undiscovered shipwrecks out there containing treasures, and who is to say, you can´t find it?
When you hear divers talking about shipwrecks, the term penetration pops up a lot! This has nothing to do with the 60ft club, scuba diving’s equivalent of the mile high club. (I know of no one who has done this though, just another fun myth,). Penetration, however, is the term used to describe entering a shipwreck. This requires special training as it can be dangerous. Lines are used to map the route in, and hopefully, out. As silt collects inside wrecks, it only takes a misplaced fin kick to cloud the water, concealing the exit route. Without specialised training, overhead environments should not be entered, ever, but with the training, they are a lot of fun. Swimming around a ship’s deck, going up ladders, checking out cannons and seeing who is hiding in there, is amazing.
I have dived on many wrecks, but one of my favourite sites was in the Red Sea in Egypt. When the Israel´s pulled out of Egypt, they did not want to take all of their equipment with them, so they dumped it off a cliff into the ocean, along with many empty oil drums. This site is spectacular now. The empty oil drums contain many surprises, from eels to nudibranches (the pretty slugs), amongst many other surprises. You can also sit in the jeeps, perch on the tank guns and check the periscopes out. It is a playground with history attached.
Back to Vallarta though, there are some lovely little wrecks along the coastline that have a lot of life living in and around them, and are fun to explore. You can never stop trying to guess how it came to be sitting on the bottom of the ocean, and wishing they were full of gold.

Ask a Realtor...

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Q: I have been trying to sell my condo in Conchas Chinas for over a year and so far no offers. What should I do to get it sold fast at the best price? John H. Detroit

A: Prospective buyers form their opinions about your property within the first 15 seconds. Therefore, you have to make your home as appealing as possible, as quickly as possible to the broadest clientele you can. The new buyers need to imagine THEMSELVES in your property, living the good life. Otherwise, they will not be interested in your property and you may never get an offer. The first thing to do is make a good first impression. Re-paint your front door and change the old hardware. Place planters on either side of the door with flowers in vibrant colors that excite the senses. Inside the entry way, make sure the paint is creamy white and fresh and the floors look great. All you need for décor is a thin table, a lamp and a vase with fresh flowers. Then get rid of the clutter. All the newspapers, mail, laundry, personal photos, collections and knickknacks must go. Take all the furniture out of the rooms and bring it back one piece at a time. Only the items that are essential should stay. And arrange them to showcase the view, not block it! Streamline your kitchen counters. You can keep the coffee pot, but put away the toaster, blender, dishes, storage tins and fruit bowl. You want sleek, clean lines. You want the buyers to think, “Wow, look at the counter space!” And the views, DON´T block the views. Once you get organized, keep everything neat. Polish the floors and put on a fresh coat of paint. The bathroom can never be too clean, so hide the shampoo bottles and get rid of the old bathmat. Search and destroy odors. If you can smell it, we CAN´T sell it. Make your home feel as spacious as possible. Closets should only be half full. If buyers see a jam-packed closet, they will think it will be too small for them too. Bedrooms only need a bed, night table, lamp and maybe a comfy reading chair in the master. So get rid of the exercise bike and pair down your excess belongings. Pull the furniture out a few inches from the walls, and make sure the corners of rooms are visible. Next, you want to “lighten up”. No, not you, your place! Get rid of any big heavy curtains, and install sheer window coverings and pull them to the side wherever possible. You want the buyer to come in and think, “I could live here, it’s nice and bright.” Then find yourself a superstar agent who will spend some real time and effort marketing and selling your property. Ask for referrals and get someone in AMPI and the MLS. Finally, think price, price, and price. Because everybody wants to think they are getting a good deal right now.

Do you have a question about Real Estate in Puerto Vallarta? Just ask!

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

The month of July in Mexican history Pt.2

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July 15
1867 - President Benito Juárez enters Mexico City in triumph, after fighting the French and defeating the supporters of Maximilian. This signals the start of the Mexican Republic.

July 16
1826 - The United Kingdom finally recognizes the Independence of Mexico. Independence from Spain had been "achieved" or "granted" (depending on which side of the Atlantic you come from) in 1821.

1944 - Mexico's 201 Air Squadron leaves for training in the U.S. before entering the campaign against the Japanese on April 30, 1945.

July 18
1872 - President Benito Juárez dies while still in office. Considered one of Mexico's finest ever politicians, Juárez came from a humble background in the state of Oaxaca. He rises through the ranks of state politics to become State Governor and enters the national political arena as Justice Minister in 1855. He becomes national President in 1858. Reelected in 1861, he faces an international diplomatic crisis that same year when he announces a suspension of foreign debt payments. Settlements are reached with England and Spain but France invades Mexico the following year. Subsequently, Juárez leads the fight against Emperor Maximilian and regains the presidency in 1867.

July 20
1520 - The Spanish Conquistadors, led by Hernan Cortes, enter the Aztec capital Tenochtitlan and begin to destroy the city, house by house.

1923 - Francisco "Pancho" Villa dies in Hidalgo de Parral, Chihuahua. He was one of the most formidable figures in the Mexican Revolution. On one occasion in 1916, he even crossed into the U.S. to attack the fort in Columbus, New Mexico, in retaliation for the U.S.'s recognition of Carranza as President.

July 22
1800 - Manuel Lopez Cotilla is born in Guadalajara. Lopez Cotilla becomes a distinguished politician and educator, and is responsible for developing noteworthy textbooks.

July 23
1810 - Father Miguel Hidalgo makes known to his fellow conspirators (Allende, Aldama, Josefa Ortiz de Domínguez, Abasolo and others) his plans for starting a rebellion against Spain, designed to result in an independent Mexico.

July 24
1888 - By decree, the city formerly known as Paso del Norte in Chihuahua is renamed Ciudad Juárez, in honor of Benito Juárez.
July 26
1829 - Spanish expeditionary forces, 4000 strong and led by General Isidro Barradas, land on the coast of Veracruz hoping to reestablish Spanish control over Mexico. They surrender September 11.

July 27
1529 - Charles V of Spain grants Hernan Cortes the land on which the National Palace stands today, in the center of Mexico City.

1780 - Anastasio Bustamante, who became President of Mexico on three occasions during the nineteenth century, is born in Jiquilpan, Michoacan.

July 28
1957 - A strong earthquake, measuring 7.5 on the Richter scale, rocks Mexico City early in the morning. Some 60 residents lose their lives. A well-known monument on Avenida Reforma, the "Angel of Independence", falls off its pedestal, crashing onto the road below.

July 30
1811 - Father Miguel Hidalgo, the leader of the Mexican independence movement, is executed in the city of Chihuahua. Hidalgo began the insurgent movement against the Spanish in the early hours of September 16, 1810. He arrived in Guadalajara in December of that same year, and his proclamation guaranteeing freedom for slaves was the earliest issued anywhere in the western world.

Learn to sail this summer

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The Vallarta Yacht Club and Sail La Cruz are inviting kids to enjoy their vacations practicing this sport
One day, one week, or even more: being a local or vacationing in Banderas Bay has become even more fun because of the special activities that just have been announced. This summer, kids can enjoy from one single class to a whole camp in order to learn how to sail on small Optimist class sailboats.
The Vallarta Yacht Club (VYC) located at Marina Paradise Village in Nuevo Vallarta, as well as Sail La Cruz, located at the Marina Riviera Nayarit at La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, have launched summer programs to teach kids how to sail.
This summer, both clubs created special programs to make it fun for the little ones to learn this sport. At Marina Riviera Nayarit, the “Kids learn to Sail” program will cater to children from 8 to 14 years of age, and will take place on July 11 to August 5. The cost per day is $300 pesos (includes lunch), and children will be able to take from one single class to the complete summer camp.
The VYC has created one-week camps for different skill levels. Classes for beginners will take place on July 4 to 8 and 11 to 15, and intermediate and advanced classes will take place on July 18 to 22. The minimum age to participate is 8 and the cost for the complete camp is $1,850 pesos.
Knowing how to swim, having lots of enthusiasm and a love for the ocean are the only pre-requisites for both programs, which promise an action-packed vacation.
It’s important to stress that both the Vallarta Yacht Club and Sail La Cruz are organizations that are not only concerned with attracting tourism to the area, but also with the development of competitive sailors in our community.
The Youth Sail Program seeks to promote the participation of children in different national and international events in representation of Bahia de Banderas. The program grants scholarships to children in need so that they can train and develop their nautical and decision-making abilities, as well as the teamwork that this sport demands, which will later contribute to their adult life.
Experts regard Riviera Nayarit as one of the best places for sport sailing due to the quality of its wind currents. One of the reasons, the Pan American Games 2011 for this discipline are hosted in the area.

For further information on these activities:
Vallarta Yatch Club
Linda Green
Phone: (322) 2972222
www.vallartayatchclub.com
Sail La Cruz
Joaquin Bargallo
Cell: (322) 1359791
e-mail: saillacruz@gmail.com

Happy Birthday USA

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On July 4, 1776, the Second Continental Congress unanimously adopted the Declaration of Independence, announcing the colonies’ separation from Great Britain. The Constitution provides the legal and governmental framework for the United States, however, the Declaration, with its eloquent assertion “all Men are created equal,” is equally beloved by the American people.
Philadelphians marked the first anniversary of American independence with a spontaneous celebration, which is described in a letter by John Adams to Abigail Adams. However, observing Independence Day only became commonplace after the War of 1812. Soon, events such as groundbreaking ceremonies for the Erie Canal and the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad were scheduled to coincide with July 4th festivities.
In 1859, the Banneker Institute of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, urged African Americans to celebrate Independence Day while bearing witness to the inconsistencies between the ideals espoused in the Declaration of Independence and the practice of slavery. Banneker’s orator of the day, Mr. Jacob C. White Jr., also promised his audience a brighter future:
We have learned by experience and by the comparison of ourselves with people similarly situated, to hope that, at some day not very far in futurity, our grievances will be redressed, that our long lost rights will be restored to us, and that, in the full stature of men, we will stand up, and with our once cruel opponents and oppressors rejoice in the Declaration of our common country, and hail with them the approach of the glorious natal day of the Great Republic.
By the 1870s, the Fourth of July was the most important secular holiday on the calendar. Congress passed a law making Independence Day a federal holiday on June 28, 1870. Even far-flung communities on the western frontier managed to congregate on Independence Day. In an American Life Histories: Manuscripts from the Federal Writers’ Project, 1936-1940 interviews, Miss Nettie Spencer remembered the Fourth as the “big event of the year. Everyone in the countryside got together on that day for the only time in the year.” She continued,
There would be floats in the morning and the one that got the [girls?] eye was the Goddess of Liberty. She was supposed to be the most wholesome and prettiest girl in the countryside — if she wasn’t she had friends who thought she was. But the rest of us weren’t always in agreement on that…Following the float would be the Oregon Agricultural College cadets, and some kind of a band. Sometimes there would be political effigies.
Just before lunch - and we’d always hold lunch up for an hour - some Senator or lawyer would speak. These speeches always had one pattern. First the speaker would challenge England to a fight and berate the King and say that he was a skunk. This was known as twisting the lion’s tail. Then the next theme was that anyone could find freedom and liberty on our shores. The speaker would invite those who were heavy laden in other lands to come to us and find peace. The speeches were pretty fiery and by that time the men who drank got into fights and called each other Englishmen. In the afternoon we had what we called the ‘plug uglies’ — funny floats and clowns who took off on the political subjects of the day…The Fourth was the day of the year that really counted then. Christmas wasn’t much; a Church tree or something, but no one twisted the lion’s tail.
Down South the celebration was much the same. Ninety-six-year-old Dr. Samuel B. Lathan recalled the Independence Day celebrations of his South Carolina childhood:
The Fourth of July was observed at Caldwell Cross Roads. The military companies of infantry would assembly here from the surrounding counties making up a brigade. A drill and inspection were had, and a dress parade followed. There was an old cannon mounted on the field. The honor of firing it was assigned to Hugh Reed, who had been in the artillery of Napoleon’s army at Waterloo and afterward emigrated to South Carolina. A great barbecue and picnic dinner would be served; candidates for military, state, and national offices would speak; hard liquor would flow; and each section would present its ‘bully of the woods’ in a contest for champion in a fist and skull fight. Butting, biting, eye gouging, kicking, and blows below the belt were barred. It was primitive prize fighting.