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July 2002 News Archives
Saving the Crocs Due to the quick thinking of residents near the estuary of La Manzanilla, just north of Barra de Navidad, several dehydrated crocodiles were rescued recently. This Sunday the rescue process will be repeated by a team headed by biologist Helios Hernandez Hurtado of our local CUCosta campus. Helios monitors and manages the Reptilario Cipactli, where his most important work, in his own words, is observation and investigation. “I think that the crocodile is part of the identity of this region, and as people learn to identify with the area, they can learn to identify with the crocodile as well.” So far this year, the busy biologist has hosted more than 2,000 children in learning sessions and, with summer vacation well underway, will easily match or exceed his record last year of more than 3,500 youngsters. “The young children are our biologists of tomorrow.” A young man himself, Helios has worked with the crocodile population for seven years locally, after studying in Guadalajara. “We have students from different areas, such as investigations, veterinary sciences and tourism, who are all working together on our future here at CUCosta.” The reptilarium, Cipactli, which is the Nahuatl word for ‘crocodile’, received press attention from around the country in April upon the capture of Goliat, a nearly 10-foot-long crocodile that showed up in a populated area outside of the city. Goliat can be viewed by the public daily, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., without charge.
Global Brings Ambulance Service to Nuevo Vallarta With ambulance service now established at the Paradise Plaza in Nuevo Vallarta, emergency response time has decreased dramatically in the Nuevo Vallarta-Bucerias area. The new Global Life Flight office has its own ambulance and bilingual staff – as does the main office, located in the San Javier Hospital. Staff is on hand 9 am – 9 pm Monday through Friday; while on Saturday and Sunday, the service is open 24 hours and can be reached at 226-6770 ext. 6697. The state-of-the-art ambulances, with the most modern and up-to-date equipment, transport patients to San Javier Hospital or any facility requested. Contact Pamela Thompson at pmt@prodigy.net.mx or call her at 226-1010 ext. 304 for further information. Remember that they also offer classes on “Six Steps to Save a Life”, in both English and Spanish, at the reasonable charge of $150 pesos per person.
Practice that Serve Remember to register by August 1 for the annual tennis tournament jointly sponsored by Pipi’s restaurant and the Continental Plaza. The tournament will be held August 5 - 10 at the Continental Plaza tennis courts. Many of the local participants in the tennis matches of the Sports Classic, held just a few months ago, will be toeing the line together again.
Sister Cities to Convene in Vallarta A convention of the International Sister Cities, featuring a variety of local artists, will be held in Vallarta in August. The CUCosta will organize the event, with special evenings designated for an exhibition of works by contemporary local artists such as Ireri Topete, Pedro Tello and Ada Colorina. Marcella Lepe will present work by her father, renowned artist Manuel Lepe, and Yolanda Caledonia will present again the book by her mother, Catalina Montes de Oca, Puerto Vallarta en mis recuerdos. If you remember, the book was translated by Yolanda’s daughter, Pita, and also will be available in English as Puerto Vallarta: My Memories. As the time draws near, more of the program’s events will be announced. Scheduled for August 28 - 31, the convention will take place at the Westin Regina in Marina Vallarta.
Televisa to Broadcast EMC World Cup Televisa, one of Mexico’s TV networks, and golfers celebrated the signing of a contract to broadcast the EMC Golf World Cup to be held in Puerto Vallarta. Televisa promises coverage from December 12 to 15 at the Vista Vallarta Nicklaus course. Says Albert Sosa, director of the sports division of Televisa, “It’s the first time we’ll be providing coverage for such an important golfing event as the EMC World Cup and we’re sure it will be a success.” Steve Wilson, executive director of the EMC World Cup, explains that the event will be broadcast in 140 countries to more than 200 million viewers. Local officials agree that an event of this magnitude is a major coup for getting Puerto Vallarta on the world golfing map.
Turtles Laying Around Vallarta’s sea turtles are busy laying eggs and the sites for protecting the eggs are ready and waiting at hotels along the beach, as well as at the downtown site off the malecón. The turtles’ nesting period is from June to October, when the eggs are collected to be put into protected areas. Taking about 45 days to hatch, the small turtles then are released in special release programs, open to the public. Especially important has been the education of young children in the conservation of another of our important natural resources.
Taxi Rates Scheduled to Increase Despite the state’s approval of an increase in taxi fares, we still have a brief respite. Driver Cristobal Pazos Gomez said that it would be a while before City Hall will allow taxi drivers to implement the new rates, possibly not until the next high season. “It’s unlikely they’ll let us increase rates just before we go into our lowest season, September,” he commented. Meanwhile, the number of taxi stands in the downtown area has decreased slightly since the promised changes in early June.
Celebrate Christmas in July The annual Christmas in July dinner at Cuates & Cuetes just off the Los Muertos Pier, an event that’s still as popular as when it began, will feature two seatings on Saturday, July 27 – one at 6 pm and the other at 8 pm. Turkey with all the trimmings, delicious by all reports, will be served for $100 pesos per person. Make your reservations now at 223-2724 and plan to bring a donation, such as rice or canned food, for the food bank.
River Café Reopens Sporting new interior windows, the River Café proudly reopens as the rainy season is upon us. Now, it can pour outside, while you casually lunch or dine in comfort. As usual, the wait staff will seat you with an eye to the weather and offer you the appropriate libation to accompany it. Located on the Rio Cuale Island, just off the northbound bridge where Morelos becomes I.L.Vallarta, this award-winning restaurant also features the live music of Beverly & Willow.
NEW BUSINESSES Arte Primitivo The masks of Africa, an elephant inlaid with gold and precious gems, table settings the color of bone, from one display to another, you will feast your eyes at Arte Primitivo, as you mentally redecorate your home again and again. Perhaps you even will be tempted to purchase another, just to fill it with the delights you find in this large store of dreams. Located in Plaza Neptune at the corner facing the entrance to Marina Vallarta, the store is open 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. and 4 - 8 p.m.
La Marinera Fish & Chips La Marinera, open Monday to Saturday, noon – 9 pm, tempts with beer at just $9 pesos and complementary ceviche tostadas. But wait until you see the lightly breaded fish and chips, served Newfoundland style, with an order of cole slaw. And you can ask for vinegar without anyone looking cross-eyed at you! Guaranteeing you’ll get enough to eat, your choice of three flavors of ice cream is offered after the meal. Located at 171 San Salvador, just up from the Buenaventura Hotel.
Pacific Jewelry Proving that diamonds are forever, Pacific Jewelry recently opened its fourth location, this one across from the malecón at the corner of Diaz Ordaz and Corona. The store is open 10 am - 10:30 pm, except Wednesdays and Thursdays, when they open at 8:30 am as one of the preferred stops for cruise ship passengers.
Vallarta Adventure Ready to Debut Canopy Tour The original Canopy Tour, founded in Costa Rica, has come to Puerto Vallarta. In the lush, green tropical forests beyond Las Palmas, you will see the jungle as only Tarzan would have seen it. The crew, with at least 200 hours of training, promises the safest harness and pulley adventure through the jungle canopy available. As Jan, trainer and mother of three, says, “Every child I see as my own child, and I recognize that safety is the prime consideration.” Taking you through different levels of the forest, explaining each step of the way, these experts make you feel comfortable as they guide you through an environment that may seem difficult at first. Bromeliads, orchids, ferns and the luxurious growth inside the canopy will keep your mind off the ground below. When you do the final rappel to lower yourself to the ground, you may find yourself signing up for a second round. Check out their web page at Vallarta-Adventures.com or stop by their office at Calle Mástil Local 13-C in the Marina Golf building.
Pie in the Sky Opens Puerto Vallarta Branch Opening quietly on Wednesday at 2 pm, gourmet dessert and coffee place Pie in the Sky had received their first customer by 2:05 p.m., when a previous patron of the original store in Bucerías bought an entire chocolate cake for a baby shower. “She decided to buy another one for her father-in-law,” Lee Herring was happy to report. On Saturday, July 13, the official inauguration for the new business was held, with music, free coffee and samples for the obliging public. Check them out for morning coffee at 8 a.m., stop by for dessert as late as 11 p.m., or check out their special mini-pizzas and empanadas. They’re open every day of the week at I.I. Vallarta 150 with parking available on Aquiles Serdan.
Vallarta Bikes Offers Variety of Adventures The new office of Vallarta Bikes, operated by brothers Alex and Pepe Gonzalez, is located in Col. E. Zapata at Lazaro Cardenas 573-3. Their brand-new mountain bikes will take you easily into the mountains on one of their many adventures. Try night riding, which includes a ride on one of the country buses “with chickens overhead”, as Alex more or less jokingly says. When night falls, the group comes slowly down the mountain – with lights of course. Or try the San Sebastian run. A plane takes you up into the beautiful mountain town, where you can explore the narrow cobblestone streets and haciendas. From there, it’s a three-hour ride down the mountain to Las Palmas, where a bus will meet you. The groups are small and friendly, the attention is personal, and with fun and safety as their main preoccupation, you can relax and ride with professionals. Open, as they say, eight days a week, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Once Upon a Time Dream Comes Alive “Two kids had a dream,” says Anna Reisman of her son Mike, his fiancée, Ali, and their new ice cream parlor. Serving real, homemade ice cream, the little corner was painted with scenes of dragons by local artist Philippo LaGrande. Called “Once Upon a Time”, the business harkens to a time of chivalry and service – with the modern touch of air conditioning. Located on Morelos in the triangle area just before the bridge over the Cuale River into Col. E. Zapata.
Progressive Bike Spins into Nuevo Vallarta The most up-to-date equipment and a spin bike room with certified instructors make Progressive Bike & Fitness Center worth your membership. Alma and Agustín will even prepare you to try out for the spin bike competition at next year’s Sports Classic if you allow them. In the Pilates room, instructor Chalisse Hunter will help transform you. Call the Progressive Bike & Fitness Center at (322) 226-6767 or stop by to look over their beautiful new facilities.
Feng Shui Finds the Perfect Spot Puerto Vallarta is proud to welcome La Casa del Feng Shui, where you can learn to put balance and harmony in your life by readjusting your surroundings. Manager Mirna Múrua offers advice on the optimum position and relationship of furniture for your modern life. In August, classes will also be offered by Maestra Adriana Álvarez with a course that can be purchased. The store, located at Corona 165 in El Centro, is open Monday - Saturday, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. and 4 – 8 p.m. Please call Mirna at (322) 222-3300 with any questions.
Salsa Class Sizzles The new women’s gym, Total Fitness Gym, located at Timon 1 in Marina Vallarta, is offering a salsa class with Marcelo Mico, the well-known Pilates instructor from the Body Studio in El Centro. The salsa class is open to women and whomever they invite, including men, so expect a mixed class. It runs on Saturday from 9 - 10:30 a.m. in the air-conditioned comfort of their padded aerobics room.
Bastille Day Celebration Surpasses Expectations More than a week of activities at La Petite France were topped off with a ‘Moulin Rouge’ evening on Saturday. Beginning upstairs, there was a special show of minerals in their natural states, as well as carvings from pre-Hispanic times. Dr. Ricardo Vidal Manzo, a local engineer, spoke of his experiences as a collector, while presenting some of his rarer specimens. Reconvening downstairs in the restaurant, full to capacity, attendees enjoyed a six-course meal as the live music played. Mikki Prost, local chanteuse, wowed the crowd with several numbers, one from “Victor Victoria” and one from “Cabaret”. Next on the agenda was a rendition of “La Vie en Rose” and several jazz numbers from the 40s by Cesario and, finally, three dances by duo Ivan and Vanessa.
Mata Ortiz Sponsors Speaker for Charity On August 2 at 7 p.m., Galería Mata Ortiz will sponsor a benefit slide presentation by international expert Spencer MacCallum on the beginning years of the Mata Ortiz art movement. Spencer will also discuss how the village is on the verge of developing in new directions with the introduction of silver working, leather tooling and lapidary. The event, which will be held at Haciendo Mosaico, Calle Milán 274, Col. Versalles, also will include cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. The entrance fee of $150 pesos will benefit “The Children of the Dump”. Tickets are for sale at Galería Mata Ortiz, the Vallarta Lifestyles office and Libros Libros Books Books, or by calling (322) 228-0419 or emailing harriet@pvnet.com.mx or maca@pvnet.com.mx.
CONTROVERSIES FLARE UP Parking Structure Approved Despite Opposition The final vote taken at City Hall passed the resolution to build an underground parking structure at the current location of Parque Hidalgo, but didn’t bring an end to discussion. Immediately, complaints came from neighborhood residents and vendors about the lack of information being provided by the city. The construction group, Guarantee Investment, S.A. de C.V., is given 90 days to begin the project, with first sketches made public Wednesday, July 17. Despite the strong opposition from local vendors, many of them moved from the Los Arcos area some years back with a promise of permanence, the community seems to be accepting the decision with surprising equanimity. Yet to be confirmed for relocation are DIF’s important community offerings, such as the piñata class pictured, and the city library. Stay tuned for further developments.
Puerto Vallarta Slated to Offer Gambling The Mexican Congress just passed a resolution for a controlled number of casinos with the approval of three sectors: government, public security and tourism. Most important in the final arguments were the projected tax revenues to be gained by the federal, state and municipal governments. A preliminary plan would establish 12 casinos throughout the country, two of them being in the state of Jalisco – one in Guadalajara and the other in Puerto Vallarta. It also would establish control of illegal gambling, such as cock fights, horse races and sports books. The mechanisms of control would include a National Commission of Gambling, with representation from the federal level and also from the Hacienda for control of revenues and taxation.
Nuevo Vallarta Strikes Local Nerve Recent statistics on national tourism once again put Nuevo Vallarta in first place with the highest level of hotel occupancy, 85.53%, which is 11 points higher than the same period last year. These figures, in contrast to Puerto Vallarta’s 53%, continue to cause anger within the community. The governor of Jalisco’s trip to Spain last fall to promote tourism resulted in a charter contract with Spanish Marsans, which chose Spanish chain hotel Riu Jalisco in Nuevo Vallarta to house their charter passengers. Other hot points are the use of the Vallarta airport and the concept of all-inclusive hotels, which give little or no incentive to tourists to even visit Puerto Vallarta.
Sidewalk Tables Considered as Option Once again, a proposal is being considered to allow certain businesses, especially restaurants and cafes, to extend their establishments to include the sidewalk. Currently, this is allowed only in the Olas Altas area, since reconstruction in 1995 widened sidewalks there. However, many companies in other parts of town have repeatedly requested and been refused similar variances for extending their business into the public zone. Of prime consideration is ease of pedestrian movement and safety. The commission of city regulations has agreed to work with the division of traffic safety to reach an agreement on whether other areas of the city could be opened to such a possibility. Several of the areas mentioned were Colonia Versalles, a small area near the sculpture Los Milenios, and an area behind the Bital bank.
Week of July 8, 2002
Summer Belongs to the Children School is out and summer is here. It’s family vacation time, for those families fortunate enough to get away from their normal annual routine. Many of those families, especially in Mexico, come to Puerto Vallarta, fast-growing as a family destination. Activities are many and varied, but with children, in order to avoid the PAIN involved in a disastrous family vacation, try these ideas. a. Planning is probably the most important activity to ensure successful time together as a family or for your child’s happy summer. Plan not only time for learning, but also time for fun. There are many activities in Puerto Vallarta that include both at the same time, such as the many children’s programs, usually relevant for ages five or six to 12 or so. b. Age-appropriate activity is the next relevant factor. Seriously consider the age of the child as well as his types of interest. If the child is young, expose him to a variety of activities to allow the interest to grow as the level of involvement increases. c. Involvement is important not only for your child, but for yourself. It doesn’t mean following your child to class every day, but it does mean stopping by and observing when possible, talking to the teachers or guides, and communicating with your child about his involvement in the chosen activities. d. New technology is bringing a much broader range of activities for all ages. Some of them are physically intensive and can help increase coordination and movement skills. Some are cerebral in nature, but encourage growth through research. But, remember that it’s summer and, while not all work is play, not all play is work, either.
DIF Sponsors Creative Opportunities for the Elderly A group often forgotten in the summer, or at any time of the year, is the elderly. Here in Mexico they are called the “Tercera Edad”, or the ‘third age’. DIF, the community-based organization, sponsors organizations for the ‘golden’ years. “Dios es Amor de la 3ra Edad de PV”, the downtown branch of that organization, is headed by Pres. Luz Graciela Camarena Santa Ana, pictured here with Sra. Cecilia Baldera Lomelín. On Thursday, the group met in Parque Hidalgo to view the embroidery of Cecilia, or ‘Cessy’ as she is called. The animated Sra. Luz Graciela encouraged them to “try creative things with your hands other than making tortillas”. Every day she told them, “We get up, we bathe, we get ready and go out to meet the day.” The group works toward the integration of three elements in their lives: sports, culture and creativity. The President of DIF, Mayra Burgos de Ruiz, wife of the current mayor of Puerto Vallarta, also spoke to the group. Among other things on their busy calendar is preparation for next year’s ‘mini-Olympics’ for the elderly.
Beating the Heat Pepe Gutierrez, a local artist represented by Galleria Danté, is taking summer classes on the Rio Cuale Island. It’s hot there, especially at midday. “I find that if I get out in the heat, if I get involved in what I’m doing, I don’t even notice the heat.” Perhaps we can all learn from that example. Other things suggested by medical experts are avoiding the hottest hours, usually midday, for activities that put us at risk for overexposure. Avoid stressful or strenuous exercise, for example. And it is necessary to remember to replenish the liquids that your body needs. (Swimming in the ocean or the pool does not replace bodily liquids.) Use care and common sense and take heat seriously. Enjoy the rains and the temporary cooling they bring. If you can’t sleep well at night, take that siesta. It wasn’t such a foolish invention.
La Petite France Prepares for Upcoming Bastille Day Bash The week of activities related to France’s Bastille Day, July 14, are culminating this Saturday with the final dinner, a gala event. La Petite France, one of the cultural centers of Vallarta, is owned by Nacho Cadena, also the chairman of the cultural committee organized by the city. He takes his role seriously, and with the assistance of Monica and a wonderful staff, has prepared an evening of wine and song, a fantastic menu of six courses, a ‘Moulin Rouge’ show of entertainment, music and dancing. Considered one of the big parties of the year, the cost is $350 pesos per person. Reservations are a must. Call 293-0900/0901 for details and information for this July 13 celebration.
Judith Ewing-Morlan Gallery Plans Day of the Dead Event It might seem early, but Judith Ewing Morlan, of Judith Ewing Morlan Gallery, knows that planning is what makes things work and work well. The theme of this event, illustrated here by her work, is ‘to your muse’. Public viewing of the 16 niches for the altars will be during the first Art Walk, October 30, so the theme is the Day of the Dead. Some of the ideas used last year were Coco Chanel, by a dress designer, and Jackson Pollock, by a painter. There is no charge for participation, but contact her now at (322) 223-2179, whatso@pvnet.com.mx, or the gallery at Calle Miramar 237, as space is limited.
Travel Advisory Collapses Development of Ecological Destination Sometimes a basically sound business plan is affected by something much larger, as evidenced in many areas since September 11. There is a special place called Rancho San Jose del Tren, a property south of El Tuito about an hour off the main road, not very accessible. With the renowned Dr. Juan Luis Cifuentes, brothers Pepe and Juan Gonzalez of El Palomar de los Gonzalez here in Puerto Vallarta worked on an ecologically equitable plan to make their property accessible. Just this summer this plan seemed to be coming together, with reservations for groups of students, mostly from Texas, scheduled for July and August. The youngsters would have full room and board in newly built dormitory-type accommodations for periods of two to six weeks. A Spanish instructor was arranged, a biologist was chosen, bedding was bought, and even the china and silverware were shipped in. Then came the U.S. government’s travel to Mexico advisories in early June. This indiscriminate advisory had far-reaching effects. Within a few days, worried parents canceled every single reservation of the more than 20 youngsters per week.
CUC book An important book about the history of Puerto Vallarta was released in its second edition in Spanish as well as its first edition in English. The book, “Puerto Vallarta en mis recuerdos”, first published in 1982, was released in an event at the Centro Universitario de la Costa, or CUC, in the comfortable air-conditioned auditorium. Co-author Yolanda, renowned also for her clothing designs in manta, says her mother, author Catalina Montes de Oca, always saw the good in everyone. Yolanda’s daughter Pita was the translator of this wonderful family-city history into English, entitled “Puerto Vallarta, My Memories”. Available locally at Libros Libros Books Books, this book is a must for the bookshelf of every resident. As speaker Dr. José Maria Muriá said, “More than the story of a family, it’s the story of Puerto Vallarta.”
The Island on Exhibition Friday afternoon was the scene of a cooperative exhibition of the students at the taller operated in part by the cultural department of the city. With the summer season fast approaching, Ireri Topete, the painting instructor, helped the students set up a non-restrictive show of their most-recent work. “It helps to bring closure to the work they’ve been doing,” says Ireri. Many of the adults will continue classes throughout the summer. In addition, the children’s programs begin on July 8.
Another Night at L’Opera Friday night was a ribbon-cutting event at L’Opera to celebrate the exhibit of artist Mathis Lídice, known for his sculpture on the malecón next to Hotel Rosita. Cutting the ribbon was his friend and benefactor, Luis Reyes Brambila, also director of Vallarta Opina. A fashion show of models in Sarah Bustani tiptoed down the candle-lit hallway as the group Trio Arlequine played.
Four Seasons in Summer A special invitation went out to Puerto Vallarta residents Saturday night for a replay of an event that occurred at the Four Seasons Hotel during the cultural festival in May. Titled “Lo Visible y lo Elusivo”, original music by Raoul Díaz was accompanied by the photographic images of Mark Callanan with the poetry of Octavio Paz narrated by Claudia Velo. It was an evening of magic, the stars visible in the broad night sky over Punta de Mita. Lynn Barstow of the Ambassador group indicated that the event was the beginning of an idea of bringing the people of Vallarta together around common interests.
Marathon, More Than Half There were plenty of runners who didn’t forget to keep in shape as the Half-Marathon of Puerto Vallarta took place on Sunday. Our local runners were represented well, with a total of 345 runners participating. Five runners from Kenya entered, two of the men placing first and second. In the open category, Lupita Guerrero Martínez took second place, which brought her to the forefront as the only local athlete to place. She went home with the purse and a big smile.
Thailand in Sight Muay Thai, a sport that goes back over a thousand years, has found its way to Mexico. Our local professor, Adolfo Lozano, discovered Muay Thai several years ago by way of kick-boxing classes. “Muay Thai has a much longer tradition, and is much more complete,” he says, explaining his passion, fed by two months in Bangkok last year, where he was certified as a trainer. Two of his students, Christian Peña and Pedro Camberos, plan to accompany him for the upcoming World Cup in Thailand July 18-29. The only hitch is that funds are still needed for part of Pedro’s ticket and all of Christian’s. If you can help these students realize their dream, stop by the Thai Gym at 111 Benemérito de Las Americas, just past the Prepa Regionál on Francisco Villa, or call (322) 223-0954.
Canada Day Lynn Benoit, Consulate of Canada, decided to combine events this year by honoring her favorite Canadian, Terry Fox, in a breakfast of champions. During the breakfast at Marriott Casa Magna, Lynn brought to the attention of the public a number of local business people who assisted the Terry Fox Run in many ways, whether by running, contributing, or even cheering on the runners. A total of $285,000 pesos was collected toward cancer research.
Independence Day Kelly Trainor, Honorary Consul of the United States, also celebrated the birthday of her country by tying it to a charity event. The day began at the Colegio Americano with Disney characters entertaining the children. Admission was $25 pesos per person, the purse going toward a number of local charities. The afternoon continued with a raffle, competitions, music, live shows, food and drink.
Pigeons to the Fore The first Triple Crown Colombofile event is taking place in Puerto Vallarta beginning this week. In case you have forgotten, a colombofile is that unusual person who dedicates time and money to the raising and training of carrier pigeons. This event, the first of its level here, attracts entries from various countries, the most notable being Germany, the U.S.A., Argentina and Perú, in addition to a number of states within Mexico. The first competition, a release of 200k, takes place on July 6, with the 250k on July 9 and the final, a 300k, on July 13. Check with Miguel at Molino de Agua or call Peter Marchesine at (322) 224-1466 for further information.
Le Petite France, so French In preparation for Bastille Day, July 14, Le Petite France is hosting a series of events. Friday night, July 5, opens with a reading of French poet Jacques Prévert. The following week, July 9-11, three days of tastings under the direction of sommelier Fernando Ruiz de Chávez is for professionals. A course for people interested in the culinary arts follows on the evenings of July 10 and 11. To top off the series, “Vive La France” takes place on the evening of July 13. The gastronomic festival, with music, dance and an evening dedicated in the style of Moulin Rouge, brings in another year of prosperity French-style. Call (322) 293-0900 or (322) 293-0901 for further information or reservations.
Pie in the Sky We´ve all been waiting for it. At the corner of I.L.Vallarta and Aquiles Serdán, is the new location for besos, a local popular dessert. Roberta and Lee, originally from the Rocky Mt. region of Colorado and Arabian-horse fanatics, are introducing new lunch items as well – individual pizzas and empanadas, frozen to be carried home and heated. On their new dessert menu, you can find their new key lime pie, coconut pie and strawberry scones. “I was converted to scones when I tried them,” says Roberta. Freddy, from Santiago de Chile, promises to put the location on the map within a matter of days. Follow the music and look for their sign at I.I.Vallarta 150 on Saturday, July 13. They plan to be open 8 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Airport Arguments Increase This week our local airport has been in the news as a controversy between the company granted controlling rights and the one currently renting and operating the terminal unfolds. GAP, or El Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacifico, has announced, probably precipitously, that they would build a separate passenger terminal if an agreement isn’t reached. The investment group has already been working on improvements such as the floors, public access, restrooms and restaurants, with plans to continue with work on the actual runway after the rainy season. Aeroplazas, the renting partner, has said that the GAP representatives have not made an effort to come to the table, while GAP says that Aeroplazas is asking for too much money to be bought out of their contract.
Arst in the Marina The Marina is a special place in Puerto Vallarta, off the normal path, more of a touch of Europe than of Mexico. The malecón along the marina is lined with restaurants and shops, near two of the very best hotels in the city, the Westin Regina and the Marriott Casa Magna. It’s worth a trip out to eat at one of the new gourmet restaurants, El Circo, operated by chef Felipe Pelayo. Come out and talk with the animals.
Puerco Azul Speaking of animals, visit Puerco Azul, a gallery that specializes in contemporary popular art. The namesake is featured on a new series of t-shirts, as well as in paintings, ceramics and wood, but pigs are not all you find in this popular gallery of humorous finds. Open during the summer Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. and 6 -9 p.m.
Arte de las Americas In the Galeria Arte de las Americas, sculpture classes are scheduled for August. For the summer, the gallery is open Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. and 5 - 8 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. As July draws to a close, check with Deborah at the gallery or call (322) 221-1985 for further information on Alicia Bueno’s sculpture class.
Galeria EM Sale signs will draw your attention to the gallery of glass, offering a discount of 20% for cash payments. This beautiful house of glass can be entered Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. and 5 – 10 p.m.
Galeria Flores Fernando and Pamela plan to be open only in the evenings this summer, Monday-Friday, 6 – 10 p.m. Please call with questions at (322) 221-2517 or check their webpage at www.galeriaflores.com for further information.
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