Apparently, immigration is going to open an office here in Bucerias.
It will be located on Ave. Las Palmas, next to the new copy/internet place called Airdoggiecito.  Reuben assures me that he will stock all the necessary forms you might need for immigration issues.  Let us hope that this office is permanent.  A few years ago, they opened one here, moved it 3 or 4 times in as many months, then closed it and returned to Tepic.

Eva's Brickhouse, Calle Galeana, Bucerias, is now open for  breakfast, lunch and dinner and is air conditioned.  They are offering eggs, any style,  with hash browns, for 39 pesos; Eggs Benedict  for 69 pesos; all kind of omelets, juices, pancakes etc.  For lunch, they now have more salads and deli sandwiches, and, for dinner, they have added Filet Mignon with Bearnaise Sauce and Surf and Turf, Filet Mignon and sauteéd shrimp.

La Lomita, Agustin Melgar 22, Bucerias, has opened a sushi bar in the patio.

The Puerto Vallarta Jewish Community is making plans for the High Holy Days!!
For the very first time, there are plans in process for celebrating Rosh Hashanah and Yom  Kippur  here, and other Jewish occasions as well.  We have been most fortunate in that the Chabad Head office  and Rabbi Srugo from Guadalajara have offered to send back to us, the same two young Rabbis that conducted our Passover services and songs.  They will arrive from the USA here before Rosh Hashanah, which is September 29 and conduct the services of this Holyday and also Yom Kippur, which is October 8th.
For more information, contact Mel Bornstein, PV 322 221 5659 or US cell 847 209 1448 or email: melbornstein@hotmail.com

Valiene

Quinto di Francisco, the little Italian restaurant on the corner of Agustin Melgar and Constituyentes, is closed Mondays and Tuesdays for the summer.  It will be open at 5 p.m., Wednesday thru Sunday.

An end of season concert will be held this coming Friday, 23rd of May, at 8 p.m. (PV-Time) at the Black Forest Restaurant in La Cruz.  Latcho & Andrea  are going to play a special concert to honor the Gypsie's Patron Saint "Sara La Kali.  This event will also feature Ajim & Alessandra, The Traveling Band.  Reservations recommended. 
Call 329-295-5203 or e-mail reservations@blackforestpv.com

A new cybercafe, with different kinds of services, has opened at Ave. Las Palmas 8, in Bucerias.   The name is Airdoggiecito. The following are offered: new computers, high speed internet, printing services, fax, copies and scanner services, office supplies, computer repairs & sales.  They also provide help in any government applications & payments to national and foreign people, like immigration papers and tenancy. Tel. 329-298-6091, hours are 9-9, Monday to Saturday.

Urgent help is needed to fly a rescued beach dog to a new home. Does anyone know of anyone flying to Dallas or Chicago before June 7?  This is the cutoff day for flying animals because of the heat.  Sirena has a home waiting for her in Chicago. The flight and kennel has been paid for and the SPCA of Vallarta is coordinating this effort.
Please contact Diane if you can help. dianedungey@msn.com

Congratulations to Bucerias' own A Broken Art, voted Best Art Workshops by Puerto Vallarta Lifestyle Magazine. You can get a free workshop when you come and join A Broken Art mosaic at the local park in San Pancho this Saturday the 24th. Meet at the school on the main street leading into town (it's on the right)  Classes will start at 10am (Jalisco). It's a great way to help beautify the local school and learn how to do an outdoor mosaic project.
Any questions email abrokenart@gmail.com or call Christy 329-298-2605.

I have heard that we will have our own adoption clinic for pets here in Bucerias.  It is, supposedly, to be held at the BBCC on Saturdays.
More details on this coming up.

"They" have turned the heat on, as always happens in mid-May.  Quite a difference in the past week.  Stay cool and enjoy, where ever you are.

Valiene

A beautiful basset hound was found in the vicinity of Francisco I. Madero and Fibba. If you have lost this dog, call 298-1215 or on cell 322-120-6295.

Mark's Bar and Grill presents violinist Willy (from Willy and Lobo fame) and his Royal Jazz Quartet tonight, Thursday, May 1st at 8pm. This amazing music will be accompanied with a gorgeous 3 course dinner. $350 pesos for dinner and concert. For reservations, call 329-298-0303. They will also perform at Philo's, La Cruz, Saturday night.

Frascati's, La Cruz, is offering a delicious menu, specially designed for mom: Fish Carpaccio, Lasagna "Mama Buitoni", Tiramisu, 1 alcohol-free beverage, Capuccino Coffee. $190 pesos per person, does not include tip. Does not apply with other discounts and promotions. Valid from May 1st-31st,2008
Or enjoy a 20% discount VALID ONLY on Mother´s Day. May 10th , 2008.
Please Reserve at. 329-29 561 85 or frascatilacruz@hotmail.com

Valiene

El Grupo Mango Trio will continue playing Saturday nights at La Cascada, La Cruz, until further notice!  Show is 7-10 pm Jalisco time.
For reservations or information,  call 329-295-5948.

There will be a meeting at The Bungalows Arroyo regarding the reconstruccion of Calle Lazaro Cardenas, on Monday, April 21, at 6:00 PM Jalisco time.  There was a meeting a few days ago, with some government officials but, since no one knew about, attendance was very low.

Latcho and Andrea will be playing at the new upstairs of Ritmos Beach Café (www.ritmoscafe.com ), Olas Altas, on Sunday,  April 27, 7.30 pm.

On Wednesday, April 23, there will be a Huichol Event at Hikuri, Coral #66, in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle. It starts at 7 p.m. (PV time). Peter Collings, the English photographer will be signing his second book of photographs, "The Shaman", and will give a talk abut his experiences with the Huichol.  A group of eight Huichol. in full costume,  will present part of the ceremony of the Dance of the Deer.  Later, they will play lively Mexican music for everyone to dance. A Huichol shaman will be present for individual blessings: ($50 pesos is the recommended donation for this). Entrance is free.  They will be offering tamales, beers, cold drinks, coffees and desserts for sale, and of course the Huichol Gallery will be at its dazzling best for the viewing of the large yarn paintings.

Espressions, Bucerias, will be closed for one week at the end of April,  Monday, April 28th until Tuesday, May,  6th.  They are now opening at 4 pm, instead of 3 pm,  but are more flexible with the kitchen closing time, as people are coming out later with the time change.

Don Thompson has started a Yahoo group, Banderas Bay Music Scene. This is a group dedicated to musical happenings in Banderas Bay. One needs a yahoo address to sign up and get messages. Go to:
http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/banderasbaymusicscene/?yguid=133312967

The third annual Casa Comunidad 5K run and family walk takes place on April 27, 2008 at El Tigre Golf Course in Nuevo Vallarta.   Also offered, a 2.5K Friends and Family Walk plus a Bicycle Parade with prizes for the best decorated.  The event begins at 9 AM.  All participants and fans should meet at the Athletic Club inside the El Tigre Golf Course.  Please park outside the north gate.  The schedule is:
9:00 AM 5km Fun Run (Be at the starting line by 8:45AM)
9:45 AM 2.5 km Bike Parade (Be there by 9:30 AM.) 10:00 AM 2.5km Friends and Family Walk (Be at the starting line by 9:30 AM. Strollers are welcome) Registration Fee:  $200 pesos for one event and $300 pesos for both events.
Racers are encouraged to find sponsors for themselves, in order to collect more donations for Casa Comunidad.  T-shirts are given to those who raise over $200 pesos and fun prizes awarded to the top fundraisers!
If you wish to register before the event call Penney Davis at 329 295
5541 or you can register on race day.  But if you wait until race day, give yourself plenty of time. The races take place starting on inside the north gates of the golf course and wind their way through the course, so it is very safe.
The money raised will go towards supporting the many community programs run under Casa Comunidad, which is one of the programs run by PEACE -- A non-profit agency in the US and Mexico.
If you have questions or for more information about PEACE or Casa Comunidad please visit www.peacemexico.org.

Valiene

Chinese Takee Outee is back.  They will be open on a limited basis for the low season.  Starting Friday, April 18, the hours of operation will be 5 to 7 p.m., Jalisco.  Orders for Friday must be placed on Thursday.  For Saturday, they must be placed on Friday.  Email to chow4711@hotmail.com or call: 298-1038 or 322-118-4076.  They have removed a few items from the menu.  The prices remain the same.

A new bar and hamburger place is open in Bucerias.  It is operated by Hugh, who used to be at the Shamrock.  There are different types of burgers,  which are, supposedly, very good.  It is on Calle Alfredo Bonfil, on the second floor of the south side of the street, almost directly above the taxi stands.

There is a new wine bar in Bucerias, called El Buen Vino.  It is located on Av. Mexico, one half block south of the Shamrock Irish Pub, on the opposite side of the street. Owners, Adam Wright & Nicola Nordstrom, are from Australia. For now, they are serving cheese/fruit plates with the wine.

Restaurant La Cascada, La Cruz,  will be open Thursday, Friday and Saturday, only,  for the summer.  Coral 61.  329-295-5948.

If you didn't make it to Rhythm 'n Ribs in February, or you just want to revive your memories, look at this wonderful slide show put on by Virtual Tours. http://www.vtoursonline.com/virtualtours/mexico/bucerias/Rhythm_and_ribs.htm There is also a slide show in progress for the Bucerias Bilingual Cultural Center.

For information regarding animals for adoption and the location for same, check the following:
http://banderasnews.com/vallarta-living/petparade.htm
www.spcapv.blogspot.com     www.spcapv.com

Valiene

Don't forget to make reservations for the Nayarit Breakfast Group, Friday, April 18, at the La Cruz Yacht Club, 9:30 a.m., Jalisco.  The cost is $90 pesos (Breakfast & tip included), hosted by Elements Realty Group - Agent Connie Hollander, highlighting The Friendship Club of La Cruz.  "Bring-A-Thing" Program Benefiting: La Cruz kindergarten.  Needs include: coloring books, crayons, pencils, pens, lined paper, spiral notebooks, construction art paper, watercolors, artclay, organizer files, story books in Spanish (kindergarten).
Reservations required; deadline April 16th - 1 p.m. Respond to Connie Hollander at connie@elementsofmexico.com Tel:044-322-117-4434 Take the La Cruz de Huanacaxtle/Punta Mita exit off of highway 200.
At the first stoplight, turn left onto Calle Langosta.  (Pay attention because there is road work being done at the turnabout).  Go down to the Marina on Calle Langosta.  Enter the Marina's grounds and head straight to the guardhouse.  Tell them that you are there for the Nayarit Breakfast at the Yacht Club and you will be directed to drive behind the fence to the parking lot outside the Club House.  The entrance to the restaurant is on the far side of the building.  Take the stairs up to the second floor.

Latcho and Andrea will continue playing at Sandrina's every other Monday. This Monday,  the 14th, is their next date to play. For reservations,  call (329) 298 0273. Lazaro Cardenas 33, Bucerias.

Frascati's, La Cruz, is offering a special package called Shrimps and Chocolate (Romantic) at 374 pesos per couple. (tips are not included).
A combination of aphrodisiac flavors served in the center of the table to share with your loved one.-Tuna Sashimi, Pear Salad, Divina Comedia (Beef Tenderloin medallions with four cheese sauce and shrimp with sweet sherry sauce), chocolate brownie and 2 glasses of wine. For reservations 329-29-56185 or email: frascatilacruz@hotmail.com

It's time to vote for your favorites in the Virtual Vallarta's Readers Choice.  Go to www.virtualvallarta.com/readerschoice.  North Bay restaurants that are in the competition are Mark's and Mezzogiorno in Bucerias, Frascati's in La Cruz, Don Pedro's in Sayulita and Pie in the Sky of Bucerias.

The SPCA is hosting a cocktail party at Casa Kimberly (Elizabeth Taylor/Richard Burton's former home).  A last chance to see it until it becomes a boutique hotel in 2010.  Saturday, May 3rd, 6-10 p.m. An auction of the first overnight at Casa Kimberly plus dinner for two at the glamorous Casa Kimberly restaurant will be held. Casa Kimberly, Zaragosa 445, Puerto Vallarta.  Dress for "Swingin' Sixties", or as your favorite movie star.  Cost is $500 Pesos per person.  Tickets may be purchased at Hacienda San Angel, Miramar 336. Telephone 222-2692.
Space is limited. Tickets will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis. Tickets and auction item to be paid for by check or cash only.

The SPCA has 10 kittens and two dogs that urgently need homes. If you know of any responsible persons looking for a cutie (s) to care for, please contact nicole.martin@prurealtypv.com and the animal will be personally delivered to your home with a starter kit. The animals will be bathed and vaccinated tomorrow at Mascotas Veterinerian, across from seguro social in the hotel zone, PV,  if you are interested in seeing them.  (Note from Valiene: I have photos of them which I would be happy to send to you)

Vail Wallet goes to Vallarta on Saturdays to help with pet adoptions at the library. If there is anyone who would like to help, they can ride in with her. Adoptions are between 10 and 2pm. One can volunteer for a 2 hour slot if they wish. Foster homes for healthy cats and dogs are needed. Usually one week at a time is all that is necessary.
Anyone interested can call her at 298 3290

Valiene

We did it again!  The fourth Rhythm 'n Ribs brought in over $100,000 pesos and there is still money coming in.  And, yes, we ran out of food again.  But the entertainment was great.  The volunteers, and there were many of them, worked very hard.  As always, they are the key to the success of this event.  Construction of the orphanage is progressing well.  So many people have expressed an interest in helping that I am sure the building will be finished quickly.  A big thank you to all who participated in Rhythm 'n Ribs.  See you again next year.

The U.S. Consular Agency Vallarta, in conjunction with Community Service projects in Nayarit, is sponsoring a monthly NAYARIT BREAKFAST NETWORK.  Open to English speaking men and women, the objective is to highlight various community service projects throughout Nayarit and promote networking between residents, frequent visitors, and local businesses.  It will provide the opportunity to enrich our lives by making new friends, learning about the various projects in our communities, and meeting people from different walks of life.  Each month the Nayarit Breakfast Network will be held at a different venue in Nayarit.  Current plans are for Nuevo Vallarta, Bucerias, La Cruz, Punta de Mita and Sayulita.  A service project will be highlighted and a "Bring-A-Thing" project each month will be the opportunity for participants to bring needed supplies for that month's highlighted organization. Please join us as we kick off this effort, and help make it a success.  We look forward to meeting you!
Here is the information.  Pass the word to your friends. Friday, Feb.
22, at  Vallarta Yacht Club, Nuevo Vallarta (next to Paradise Village Resort), at  9:30 a.m.(Jalisco).  The cost is $80.00 pesos (Breakfast & tip included) Hosted by Vallarta Yacht Club (VYC), Nuevo Vallarta.  Highlighting:
VYC Jr. Sailing Scholarship Program, "Bring-A-Thing" Program
Benefiting:    Manos de Amor Children's Shelter.  Needs include: rice,
beans, pastas, oil, canned vegetables, cookies, crackers, peanut butter, jam, toilet paper, soap, children's shampoo and toothpaste.
Reservations required; deadline Feb. 20.  Respond to Laurie Ailworth at lailworth@yahoo.com or 322-297-6564 or sign up at the VYC bulletin board.

Voting information for American citizens: The Vice-Consul from the Consulate General in Guadalajara will be visiting Vallarta to inform U.S. Citizens with general voting information, there will also be absentee ballot registration.  Tuesday February 19th, 2008 at three locations on the same day. 9:30 A.M. at the Vallarta Yacht Club at Paradise Village in Nuevo Vallarta. 1:30 P.M. International Friendship Club (IFC) Where Calle Libertad & Miramar meet in Downtown Puerto Vallarta.
5:00 P.M. Nayarit time, 4:00 P.M. Vallarta time, at Philo's Restaurant in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle.

The Mango Trio will be playing every Saturday at La Cascada, in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, 7-10 Jalisco time, Calle Coral #61. For reservations, call 329-295-5948.

Bucerias Gardens has a chef and a new menu.  On Wednesdays, they will host an open mic/jam session starting at 7:00 pm.  Anita Wann continues to display her art every Wednesday afternoon.

Wednesday, February 20, the Wise Women of Vallarta program will host Joy Carol, International Author and Speaker will present "The Power of Our Stories".  We each have our own tales to tell, and they are important!
10 a.m. at the IFC Clubhouse.  RSVP Please! 322-222-9638 or pamela@healthcareresourcespv.com  Note: They ask that you bring a donation of some type for those less fortunate than ourselves including baby blankets, gently used (clean) children's clothing, children's cough syrup, mens deodorant, canned and-or dry foods, school supplies.

For live music, try these:
Monday - Pelos Largos at Bucerias Gardens,  9-12 p.m. #40 Ave. Mexico, Tuesday - Open Mic at Britannia,  6:30-10:30 p.m. #65 Coral, La Cruz de Huanacaxtle Wednesday - Pelos Largos, Britannia,  8-11pm Friday - The Chosen Few, Ana Banana's,  4:30-7:30 p.m., #48 Tiburon, La Cruz de Huanacaxtle Friday - The Goodies, Bucerias Gardens 9-12 p.m.
Sunday - Open Mic, Ana Banana's, 4-9 p.m.

That's all for awhile.  I am leaving on Tuesday to spend a couple of weeks with my children in Florida.  I will not be doing any mass emails during that time.

Valiene

There is a new Italian restaurant in town called La Quinta di Francesco. This one has very reasonable prices. It is located on the corner of Agustin Melgar and Constituyentes, one block off the lateral by the car wash and one block toward the lateral from Espressions. The food is good and plentiful. Francesco, the owner, had a special opening night for invited guests. He donated all proceeds equally to Manos de Amor and R.l.S.E., the orphanage in Puerto Vallarta.

At Espressions, for Valentine's Day, an offering of three courses plus coffee/tea. Mike is serving a soup or salad to start, then your choice of either Medallions of Beef with Marsala wine, mushroom, bacon and blue cheese; or, Roast Lamb with Mint Sauce. Both will be served with baby Roast Rosemary Potatoes and a Vegetable Medley, fFollowed by a choice of romantic, decadent or just plain yummy desserts! Tea and coffee available with a house liqueur to finish. Price is $500 per COUPLE and there are limited places left. Please call 298-0749 to make a reservation.

News from Bambú Café: It has been a busy year. Linda and Katya are delighted with the regular and faithful clientele that has grown & continues to support and encourage them. But, they are both tired and are ready to "move on" to new projects! Bambú Café is for sale. If you are interested, please contact them at the café, or call: Linda – 322-134-6430, Katya – 322-111-8944, or Home 329-298-1341.

Does anyone happen to know a Mexican cook with, preferably, a little English, who would like to volunteer to teach ONE class at the Bucerias Bilingual Community Center in early March or early April? If so, contact Lisa Greiner, 329-296-5119 or lng229@yahoo.com.

On February 1, 2008, the U.S. Government increased its fees for certain U.S.citizen passport services. For adult applicants renewing a passport, the total fee will increase to $75. For first-time applicants age 16 and over, the total fee will increase to $100. The fee for minors under 16 years of age will be $85. Effective February 1, 2008, passport applicants who are U.S. citizen minors under the age of 16 must appear personally with their parents to establish identity, proof of citizenship and proof of relationship. For parental application permission, both parents must appear together and sign, or one parent may appear to sign and submit the other parent's notarized statement, or one parent may appear, sign, and submit primary evidence of sole authority. Minors age 16 and 17 may apply in person with their own identification, but for security reasons, parental consent may be required. If your child does not have identification of their own, a parent will be required to accompany the child and present identification. Please refer to the Department of State's website at www.travel.state.gov for complete information on all new requirements, including downloadable revised forms that must be used as of February 1, and the U.S. Embassy website at http://www.usembassy-mexico.gov/, for complete U.S. passport application instructions. Citizens residing in Mexico are advised to register their presence in the country through the U.S. Department of State's automated online registration system, https://travelregistration.state.gov. U.S citizens may also contact the Consular Section at the U.S. Embassy via e-mail or by calling 011-52-33-3268-2273. This complete message is available on the Embassy's website at http://www.usembassy-mexico.gov/.

One of my faithful readers wrote to tell me about a little jewelry store whose owners are designing their own jewelery from precious stones, black and white pearls, Swavorski Crystals and other precious stones. They will, also, take special orders. They are located at Ave. Mexico No. 5 and are the last shop at the footbridge. The owners are Ana and Antonio Sanchez.

Valiene

Anita Wann will be showing her paintings in both acrylics and watercolors at Bucerias Gardens, on Wednesday,  Feb. 6th, from 1-5 p.m. She has done some very nice paintings of the Bahia de Banderas area.

There are now four nights with live music at Le Reve, La Cruz:
Mondays - Bossanova with Cristina and Nacho, a very good Mexican singer, guitarist pair. Wednesdays - Son Jarocho, that is Veracruz folk music with El Rojo, the lost Viking! Fridays - Electro-Tango with Gus and the Extremos (Gus, an excellent guitarist, was one of the founding members of the group Sombreros Verdes that later became Mana) Saturdays - Rumba Flamenca with the Tatewari, three very talented young musicians from La Cruz. La Reve/Hikuri is roasting coffee now - organic fair-trade coffee from Chiapas - freshly roasted and ground  to your taste. The Gallery and Coffee are open 7 days a week from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.(sometimes later) and the Restaurant is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 6 to 10.30 p.m.every day except Tuesday. And they are starting a video-night at Le Reve - Sundays and Wednesdays, beginning Sunday,  Feb 11th (no charge, film begins at 7.30 p.m. Jalisco time).  Drop on by for the program.

Congratulations to Los Frijoleros!! There is a new, little Frijolera, born on Thursday, January 31st.  She is, as yet, unnamed.  She is cute!  Weighing in at 4.1 kilos, she is round and firm and fully packed.

This is not necessarily the type of thing we like to think about but, it is important information.  For issuance of certified death certificates for U. S. citizens who die in the local area and whose relatives need such a certificate for their settling of a person's inheritance or trust,  or whose family need the document for transporting their remains back to their country of birth, the contact is  Dr. Nilda Minjares Garcia, Director of the Bucerias Public Health Clinic, at 54 Heroe de Nacazori, Colonia Palmas, Bucerias.  The person needs to bring proper identification for themselves that show their relationship with the deceased to facilitate the transaction. She is available for any questions about this service she is offering. She can issue such a certificate free of cost. She can be reached at 329-298-5088 and e-mail: dranminjares@hotmail.com.
This information was provided by the Rotary Club of Banderas Bay.
They recently  delivered a major donation of medical supplies and equipment to the Bucerias Public Health Clinic as part of their ongoing programs that contribute to the improvement and well-being of the community in general.

There are some great happenings planned for Valentine's Day and the few days following, including Rhythm 'n Ribs.  Watch for y next email on this subject.  I will include information from restaurants planning specials for the Valentine's Day, if I receive them.

Valiene

Britannia, Coral 65, La Cruz, will hold a Mardi Gras night on Tuesday, Feb. 5th.  The fun starts at 7 p.m. and will include a male nightgown competition.  Music will be provided by the Long Hairs.  Regular menu will be available and some drink specials.

The State of Nayarit has invited all artists of Bucerias to participate in a public art project for the Public School Coral in Nuevo Vallarta.
The dedication of the "Wall" will be Thursday, Feb. 7th. If you start your project before this date your name and project will be included in the official dedication, publications etc. The project DOES NOT need to be completed by the 7th. If you wish to paint, help mosaic or just leave a painted hand print, contact Christy at abrokenart@gmail.com. There will be transportation to the school leaving A Broken Art both Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons at 4pm (Jalsico). A copy of the official state invitation can be viewed at A Broken Art located at #62 Lazaro Cardenas, Bucerias.

Simply Speaking, Wednesday, February 6th, 7 p.m., at the Bucerias Bilingual Community Center, Calle 16 de Septiembre.
Join us for a crash course in how to feel better fast by keeping your hormones happy and balanced. As we age hormone function often declines due to environmental factors, some of which can be avoided through making sensible choices about diet, exercise, and stress.
Richard Shames is a Graduate of Harvard and University of Pennsylvania. He is a medical doctor (MD) with over 30 years medical practice. He has authored several books including HEALING WITH MIND POWER, THYROID POWER, and most recently FEELING FAT FUZZY OR FRAZZLED?
(about Thyroid, Adrenal, & Sex Gland Balance). He currently maintains a medical and hormone coaching practice in San Rafael, CA.
Karilee Shames PhD, RN has been an Associate Professor of Nursing as well as in private practice with Rich Shames MD for 30 years, with expertise in counseling for women and Energy Healing. She has authored a number of health-related books, including THYROID POWER and FEELING FAT FUZZY OR FRAZZLED? (with Rich Shames MD).

Frascati's, La Cruz, is starting a Preferred Customer Program, and the management of Frascati, as a token of appreciation, is giving away the Frequent Customer Card to all the locals, foreigners and nationals of Banderas Bay.  With the card, you will be part of our preferred customer program, and you will receive a 10 per cent discount on your dinners.
The card can be picked up at Frascati's,  (Open all week 5-11 pm) with Sebastien Defayes, or inquire by email (frascatilacruz@hotmail.com).

There is an urgent need for blood in the Puerto Vallarta area.  Please consider donating a pint! Think,  if it was you or one of your loved ones - same situation! To donate please go to:  Hospital San Javier Blood Bank - Second Floor. 8 a.m. until 7 p.m., nothing to eat or drink for 10 hours, no alcohol for 24 hours, maximum age 62, but, if you are in good health, you might qualify.

Valiene

To find the spay/neuter clinic in Mezcales, turn right at the light in Mezcales. Go one block. Go left. You will see signage for the clinic.

COMPOST in your own yard!!!! Get involved! You can make a difference!
Composting expert, Mike Vautour, is here from Canada working in the Mita area as part of a PEACE initiative.  Come and learn how you can help reduce trash and make great abono for your plants!  He will speak at Philo's this Wednesday at 7:00 p.m.

Also at Philo's, Tom Lilienthal, bass player extraordinaire, is back playing with Philo and the Mexican Shuffle Band.  Tom is now living permanently here in La Cruz.  Tom is also looking for competent musicians to play with who enjoy performing Jazz, R&B, Fusion and Latin music but are willing to explore other types of music as well.
Tom recorded and toured with Tom Fogerty of Creedence Clearwater Revival, performed at the Monterey Jazz Festival with Margie Baker and has played with the Shirelles, the Drifters and the Coasters.  If you are interested in meeting Tom come by Philo's on Friday or Saturday night or contact Tom at: tomlilienthal@gmail.com

Tickets are available for the second of  four Mexican Night benefits that are held at Philo's each year.  This benefit takes place on February the 15th, (the day after Valentines day), and will benefit the Friendship Club of La Cruz.  Tickets are 150 pesos which includes a delicious home cooked Mexican meal, and lots of entertainment.

The Black Forest, La Cruz, will hold another German Beer Fest on Tuesday, Feb. 5th.  Lots of good German food, beer and entertainment starting at 5 p.m.

News from Nuevo Vallarta is that the 6th Annual ARTS FOR THE TURTLE EVENT will take place on Thursday, February 7,  from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Bahia del Sol Resort on Avenida Cocoteros and Retorno Cozumel.  You can also arrive by beach by looking for the sign between Paradise Village's Playa Royale and Grand Velas.
Featured are beachwear, jewelry, paintings, cards, metal art, baked goodies, and textile art  along with a raffle for this year's special Turtle Quilt and a silent auction.  Proceeds from the event will go to the nonprofit AMA Mexico, which is dedicated to the conservation of the Olive Ridley Sea Turtle and her Pacific Coast nesting habitat.

Wednesday, February 6, Wise Women of Vallarta will present Lisa Schalla and Rosa Yamada speaking on:"Living Beyond Cancer".  Hear their touching and inspiring stories on surviving and thriving after breast cancer. 10 a.m. at the IFC Clubhouse. R.S.V.P. please, to pamela@healthcareresourcespv.com.  322-222-9638.  Note: They ask that you bring a donation of some type for those less fortunate than ourselves including baby blankets, gently used (clean) children's clothing, children's cough syrup, mens deodorant, canned and-or dry foods, school supplies.

Due to the large number of burglaries occurring in the Bucerias area, Kelly Trainor, U.S Consular Agent, is compiling information to take to a meeting with the Director of Public Security.  If you have been a victim, please send her information on where and when the burglary occurred.  Also, if you have not already done so, and have had items of value taken, you should make an official report at the Ministerio Publico's Office in Bucerias, accross from Casa Tranquila.  If the persons who are doing this start to leave a trail, then maybe they can be prosecuted for this.  Send your information to amigakelly@prodigy.net.mx.

Valiene

There will be a spay/neuter clinic in Mezcales this  Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.  Unfortunately, I was not given the address.  The phone number of the house is cell: 322-110-0733.  These clinics are free for those who cannot afford to pay.  Others are asked for a minimum $300 pesos donation.  For more information, contact April at ajsurfs66@hotmail.com.

La Cascada Restaurant, La Cruz,  will have the Mango Trio playing on Saturday night, Feb.2nd .

A new sports bar, called YoYo Mo's has opened in Bucerias.  It is on Avenida Mexico, 1/2 block N. of the church, on the left side of the street.  Their phone # is 298-6073.  They have several specialty pizza's, or build your own "Grande" with 7 ingredients for $165 pesos. They also, have sandwiches.  Beer is $10 pesos.  I have not personally tried this but I was told that the pizza was "incredible".

Skin Clinic is back by popular demand! Have your skin checked for cancer spots from the top of your head to the bottoms of your feet by Dr. Daniel Velasco, oncologist. February 7th, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The cost is 200 pesos.  It will be at Hospital Medasist, by appointment only.  Contact Pam at pamela@healthcareresourcespv.com

For those of you who couldn't attend, the ground breaking for the Manos de Amor orphanage went well.  Only about 1/2 hour late.  For the ones who tried and couldn't find it, we will have to get some signs.
And then, to finish the day in style, the Manos de Amor cocktail party brought in over $20,000 pesos to help us continue with this project.

Enjoy

Valiene

Thursday, Jan. 17th, is the first Bucerias Art Walk of the year. There are some exciting new additions at a new artist co-op, called A Peace of Art (located where En Latino was). Featured there will be photographer Dinah Dabboub with her first show in Bucerias along with Jessica's collection of fine jewelry, leather goods and other fun stuff. You will find those "famous tamales" there, too!  The Bucerias Art Walk is Thursday 7-10 p.m.,  Jalisco.

Making Language Learning Enjoyable, a workshop for teaching English as a second language, will be offered on Friday, January 18, and Friday, January 25, 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. (Jalisco).  Instructors:  Maxine and Don Prickel.  This two session workshop is offered at no charge to BBCC teachers or anyone considering becoming part of the BBCC team. Participants will learn the difference between studying a language (grammar, syntax, structures) and how a language is actually acquired. Practical guidance in making language learning more hands-on, enjoyable and experiential will be the focus of these two sessions developed especially for the BBCC.  Please contact the BBCC if you plan to attend, to assist us in planning for space and materials. Call Lisa at 329-296-5119 or email: lng229@yahoo.com.  Bucerias Bilingual Community Center, Calle 16 de Septiembre #48, (2 blocks behind the Ice House, turn right).

Hotel Des Artistes and Cafe Des Artistes del Mar will host a Grand Opening cocktail party on Saturday, Jan 19th, at 5:00 p.m.  The Hotel and Restaurant are located in front of the ocean at Anclote Avenue in Punta de Mita.

If you are interested in purchasing Health, Auto or Home insurance in Mexico, please contact Philo and he will set up a group meeting for information. The insurance is only a fraction of the cost of the same coverage in the US or Canada.  The primary hospitals include all the best American hospitals in the Banderas Bay and $50,000 coverage when you are abroad.  philo@philosbar.com.

There will be another book sale to benefit the Bucerias Children's Library on Tues., Jan. 22, beginning at 10 a.m., Jalisco,  under the palapa at Bungalows Arroyo.   If anyone wishes to donate books for this sale, please contact Sue Fornoff at 298-2053 or Rita Kollock at 298-1263 to either set a time to drop off books or to have them picked up.

Below are the upcoming Ayuda a los Animales (Help the Animals) clinic dates.  As always, we are looking for volunteers, food and donations.
If you are interested in volunteering, please contact April at 329.298.1168.  Bucerias, January 23-26; Mezcales, Jan. 30-Feb. 2;
San Jose, Feb. 11-16; Valle, Feb. 20-23.

Tonight, Jan. 16th, is the opening night of the Festival of Our Lady of Peace.  The final day is Jan. 24th (sorry for previous error) with the Blessing of the Boats and the fireworks.

Tickets are selling fast for the Manos de Amor cocktail party to be held on the 24th.  Yes, you can go to the cocktail party which ends at 9 and then to the fireworks, at 11, or later.  For tickets, contact me at 329-298-1013 or Anne at 329-298-1773.

A friend just made an excellent suggestion.  If you want to do something special for your maid or gardener, pay for their children to take English classes at the BBCC.  If they don't have children, consider a donation to the school to pay for another child who cannot afford to go.  $25 will pay for 3 months of twice a week sessions.

If you are thinking of hiring someone to do some work for you and they give you the name of someone as a reference, contact that person to verify their claims.  Too often a potential worker gives the name of a person who does not use them for good reason.

Enjoy the festival!

Valiene

Willie and Lobo will be playing at Mark's Bar and Grill on Friday, January 11th, and at Philo's on Saturday, January 12th. These guys are great and will surely pack the house.  You will need reservations at Mark's.  At Philo's, go early to get a seat.  Music starts at Philo's at 8:30.
The first of Philo's annual benefits for the community will be on Friday, Jan 18th.  This first one will benefit the Senior home in La Cruz .  These are very special events and are always sold out.  So get your tickets soon.  150 pesos for a grand night of home cooked Mexican food and a very special evening of lots of great entertainment.  See Philo or Kathleen for tickets.

La Cascada, La Cruz,  will be closed Sundays and Mondays starting Sunday Jan 13th

The Black Forest, La Cruz, will be holding another German Beer Fest on Friday, Jan. 11th.  Good German beer, German music and German food.For reservation please call 329-295-5203 or e-mail:
reservations@blackforestpv.com

Wednesday, Jan. 16th is the first day of the Festival of Our Lady of Peace, Bucerias' patron saint.  The first night kicks off with fireworks in the plaza, the toro and the castillo.  There is normally entertainment in the plaza every night.  Carnival rides, booths, bars and food vendors fill the downtown streets. On the 23rd, the Blessing of the Boats takes place around lunch time.  That night is the culmination of the festival with more fireworks.  Usually, fire works happen around 11:00 p.m.  The schedule of nightly events changes so often that it is not worth sending out.  Just go downtown and enjoy yourself.

Valiene

Armi Grano and the Viva Jazz Trio has found a regular gig at the brand new restaurant in Bucerias called "Adriatico's".  Adriatico's is located on Lazaro Cardenas, across from Mark's.  Armi will play there every Tues, Wed, Thurs and Fri from 7 to 10 pm.  As for the restaurant, be sure to take a fat wallet because Bucerias has never seen prices like these.

Britannia, La Cruz, will re-open Tuesday, Jan. 8th, with open mic Wednesday, Jan 9th, Bobbie Lee, Rock and Roll. Thursday, Jan. 10th, Texas Hold'em Poker, the bar opens at 6:30 p.m.

Sandi Barkwell has started a grocery shopping service.  Check her website at www.your-puerto-vallarta-vacation-grocery-shopper.com

Winter, 2008 Classes Offered at the IFC, by Daniel Grippo, M.A., Religion, Ph.D., Latin American History Six Moments in Mexican History, Mondays, 10 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Six class meetings, First class: January 21. Last class: February 28.
Minimum tuition donation to the IFC per student: $300 pesos Religious Traditions in Latin America, Fridays, 10 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Five class meetings, First class: February 15. Last class: March 14.
Minimum tuition donation to the IFC per student: $250 pesos Please contact Dan directly at dangrippo@yahoo.com for more information.

Tickets are now available for the Manos de Amor cocktail party to be held on Thursday, Jan. 24th.  The location is Los Alebrijes, one-half block from Mark's, toward the ocean, on Galeana.  Lots of great appetizers, wine and beer, and music by Don Thompson.  Tickets are $300 pesos per person.  Only 75 tickets will be sold so don't wait.
This event is always sold out.  Contact me or Anne Milling for tickets.

Manos de Amor made over $6,000 pesos on our last bazaar.  This money is used to support the Children's Shelter.  Let me know if you have furniture, clothing, etc. to donate for our next one.

Valiene

New classes at the Bucerias Bilingual Community Center, starting next week: Dance class for women, Combine Latin steps and Belly dance moves for a fun time that is great for your body!  Tuesdays, 11am to 12pm (Jalisco)
Children's dance class, Hip-Hop and Modern dance with fun leaps and turns! Saturdays, 10am to 11am (Jalisco) Spanish classes: Beginner Spanish, Monday and Wednesdays, 6:00pm - 7:00pm Intermediate Spanish, Mondays and Wednesdays, 10-11:00am Also, Brus and Jean Westby are offering an Introduction to Meditation class on Sunday mornings, 11-12, beginning Jan. 13. This is a secular training, helpful to anyone of any religious belief. Suggested donation per class is 50 pesos. For further information, contact Brus at 329 298 2891, or email bruswestby@gmail.com.
The Center is located on Calle 16 de Septiembre, two blocks off the highway on Matamoros, turn right, one-half block.

Caledonia Restaurant (La Cruz e Huanacaxtle):
Following the loss of their daughter Ceri in a road accident in March, Carol and John Innes organized a Benefit to raise funds to acquire a prosthetic limb for a young man who lost his leg in an accident.
Due to the generosity and unbelievable support from so many people, Tavo was fitted with his new leg shortly before Christmas. They would like to express their gratitude to everyone for making this dream come true. It is a wonderful Christmas present and a fabulous way to begin the New Year. It is also a fitting tribute to Ceri. Since the accident, John & Carol closed Caledonia to focus on their Property Management business but will shortly be opening a small restaurant named Arriba in  the La Cruz Inn.

There is a young, white, lab type dog found at Punta del Burro. She is remarkably gentle and well trained and wearing a red collar.  If you have lost her please call Pablo Perez on his cell phone 322 134-6969 or e-mail pabloperez@pdbhoa.org.

My Mexican Kitchen is a new service in town, offering traditional Mexican dinners 'in your home--or ours'. They cook a four-course dinner comprised of traditional dishes that you won't typically find at most restaurants in the area--'Mexican food as you've never had it before'. For more information, contact Travis J. Dietz cel.
322-116-4493 or Edgar G. Cordova cel. 322-121-8765 or
e-mail: mymexicankitchen@yahoo.com

Simply Speaking, the Amigos de Bucerias, A.C. monthly speaker night, will take place at the Bucerias Bilingual Community Center on Wednesday, January 9th, at 7 p.m.  Kelly Trainor, US Consular Agent for the Puerto Vallarta area, will  speak on basic consular service, the importance of registering with the consulate, etc. She will bring forms and, possibly. be able to register people.
Pam Thompson, of Health Care Resources in Puerto Vallarta, will cover
basic emergency information, basic insurance information,    basic
services of HCR

Valiene