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| Puerto Vallarta | | October
7th to 13th, 2002 | Rotary Club Puerto
Vallarta Pitillal to Donate 58 Wheelchairs Various
representatives of the Rotary Club Puerto Vallarta Pitillal gathered at the facilities
of DIVAC (the organization of the handicapped of Vallarta) to initiate the presentation
of nine wheelchairs, the first of 58 to be donated to this town's handicapped. The
chairs were obtained through the Rotary Foundation and sold at a big discount
to the local chapter of the Club that paid for half while its U.S. counterpart
paid for the second half. The total cost of all the chairs amounted to $120,000.
pesos. DIVAC President Ivan Applegate addressed those
present, recommending that the recipients take good care of their new wheelchairs
so that they may function as well as possible for as long as possible. He made
special mention of the case of Edgar Antonio Salcedo who has been getting around
in a sort of skateboard-with-steering-wheel that he has adapted himself to his
needs. The young man said that although he was delighted with his new wheelchair,
it would take him time to get used to it. Delivery of
the new wheelchairs to those who need them will continue at the DIVAC facilities
on Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and on Fridays from 4 to 6 p.m.
Much
Publicity for Puerto Vallarta Gastronomy Renowned
Chef Thierry Blouet, owner of the famous Café des Artistes, continues to
promote this destination's gastronomical achievements. You may recall that Blouet
is one of the original creators of this town's Gourmet Festival that will be celebrating
its 8th edition in November. This year, all the Macy's stores in the U.S. are
promoting Puerto Vallarta's Gourmet Festival. Last week,
the Café's young bartender, Francisco Palomera, participated in the Cocktail
Contest organized by the Club Vatel in Mexico City. The Tribune will have the
final results for you next week. Thierry himself is off
to Orlando, Florida later this month to demonstrate his techniques and give cooking
classes. Afterwards, he is scheduled to appear on U.S. national TV, CBS to be
exact, to present his dishes and of course, promote Puerto Vallarta and its 8th
Gourmet Festival. Other publicity for the big gastronomical
event includes extensive reports in various magazines such as the Tucson Lifestyles
and Gastrotour. An Argentinean TV crew was recently here to shoot a program on
the Festival that will be broadcast via SKY-TV to an audience of 14 million viewers
throughout the Americas.
Upcoming Golf
Events in Vallarta October 10-12: The first "Golf
Trade Fair", with exhibits by the largest companies in the field. October
10-13: The "Tour of the Americas Players Championship" to be played
on "El Tigre" golf course at the Paradise Village, backed by the Mexican
Golf Federation and the PGA. October 31-November 2: The
First "Vallarta Golf Cup" at the Velas Vallarta course. ESPN
will also be here to shoot this week's event, a fabulous promotion for Vallarta. In
the meantime, following a recent on-site visit to the new Vista golf courses (where
the EMC2 World Golf Cup will be played in mid-December) in the company of the
federal Secretary of Tourism and the municipal Director of Tourism, the Governor
of the State of Jalisco expressed his opinion that the work on the access roads
was advancing rather slowly. He went on to state that although many projects involving
construction work and the beautification of the city's image have been scheduled,
he could not see the required progress
Telmex
to Maintain Rates For the second consecutive year
in a row, TELMEX will not increase its rates for local calls, international ones
and public phones in 2003.
The decision includes:
- Servicio medido
(metered per-call charges)
- Monthly Rental (business and residential)
-
Installation costs (business and residential)
- National and international
long distance
- Public pone services
Engineer Jaime Chico Pardo, the
company's General Director, stated that TELMEX will try to increase its productivity
to absorb partially the impact of inflation, adding: "We will work hard -with
the support of the company's technological infrastructure- on the continuous training
of our employees, on the investments of over U.S. $27 Million made over the last
eleven years, to materialize them into benefits and advantages for our customers."
He added that these measures are feasible due to the economic certainty that
this country is enjoying presently with regard to inflation.
Sr. Pardo
concluded by pointing out that: "this decision represents our support of
our customers, who will now be able to continue using our services with confidence,
without it affecting their financial situation."
Oceanography
via satellite one of the novelties XIII National
Oceanography Congress "Unlike other national
oceanography congresses, on this occasion, we will present oceanography works
by satellite for the first time. This is something novel, high level, that the
audience will be able to see and get to know as a working tool," said Sr.
Pedro Medina when talking about the Congress taking place at the Coastal University
Center (CUC) until October 11th. Eight different theme
areas will be addressed during the congress. There will also be a workshop on
Oceanography via Satellite to give more information on this new method of academic
training. Sr. Medina pointed out that despite the prevailing economic situation
in Mexico, top level research is still being done and the event aims to show the
work that has been accomplished with this technology. "In
addition, there will be five conferences, one of them given by Dr. Juan Luis Cifuentes,
one of the most highly respected researchers in the country. Another will be given
by a researcher who worked in Australia and who will deal with the work done in
that country and its relationship to what is being done in Mexico. One researcher
from Miami University will talk about the carbon dioxide system in ocean waters. "Other
topics we believe are important include the matter of algae and their relationship
to oceanography in the country, along the Pacific and Atlantic coasts of Mexico." "Regarding
the Oceanography via Satellite workshop, that will be led by doctors and researchers
of the Autonomous University of Baja California in Ensenada, one of the places
that has made the most progress in this field thanks to the institution's relationship
with other research and projects in the United States, like the one in San Diego." "Students
can realize everything that can be done while researchers will be able to exchange
their information with their colleagues. This is very important because they may
not be able to accomplish certain research in a particular place due to lack of
funds, and at this congress they will be able to take advantage of various disciplines
to benefit from available academic resources." For
more information, you may contact the organization at 226-2218, or by e-mail at
pedro@pv.udg.mx or visit the web site at: http://sisvoc.cuc.udg.mx/xiiicno/
Bahía
de Banderas Needs Planning - SEMARNAT Sr. Norberto
Alvarez, the delegate of the federal Department of the Environment and Natural
Resources (SEMARNAT) to the State of Jalisco, admitted that the Bay of Banderas
needs planning with regard to the ecological aspects that involve the municipal
governments of Bahía de Banderas, Cabo Corrientes and Puerto Vallarta as
well as the state authorities, in order to avoid the contamination of its waters. The
federal representative explained that for a little over one year, work has proceeded
in an attempt to reach a consensus between the parties whose goal would be to
implement an environmental policy to avoid the potential deterioration that might
ensue. Sr. Alvarez admitted that coordination between
the different instances would allow for progress to be made, and alluded to the
suggestions included in the master plan for urban and tourism development submitted
by the Fondo Nacional de Fomento al Turismo (Fonatur) that proposes the construction
of various sewage treatment plants to reduce the level of pollutants being discharged
into the Bay of Banderas from residual water drains. Sewage treatment plans for
the hotels in Nayarit were proposed as well. During the
improvised press conference, the SEMARNAT delegate announced the installation
of multi-purpose service units along the federal maritime land zone, each of which
would include W.C.'s and tourist attention. The possible
installation of tourist information modules was also contemplated and the matter
will be discussed with representatives of the Department of Tourism to find financial
resources to accomplish the work. Furthermore, steps will be taken to involve
the Health Department in order to provide medical attention to those who may require
it. With regard to beach cleanliness, Sr. Alvarez pointed
out that advances have been made following analyses by the committee with a view
to the management of the federal maritime zone in Puerto Vallarta. Another matter
that came up was the need to implement security measures, attention to public
services and the installation of lifesaving stands.
Taxis
To Maintain Rates This Year Even though the Department
of Roads and Transportation has authorized the increase in taxi rates in the state
capital of Guadalajara, such increase has not been authorized in the rest of the
state and the matter will only be discussed again in 2003. Consequently, there
should be no increases for the next three months at least.
Controversy
Surrounds Mayor's Promotional Trip to Europe The municipal
Director of Tourism categorically denied that the trip of Puerto Vallarta's Mayor
through six European countries, in the company of the Governor of the State of
Jalisco, is "useless and fruitless" as stated by a renowned hotelier
in an interview published recently in one of the local papers. In
the interview, Sr. Carlos Siliceo had said that, considering that less than 7%
of tourists who visit this port come from Europe, and after 15 years of efforts
that have not resulted in anything, "those who still try it are just wasting
their time, their money and their efforts, because European tourists will never
come to a place like Vallarta, at least not in the numbers that we need." In
response, the Director of Tourism stated, "If we were not convinced that
this visit could bring about positive results… we cannot limit ourselves
to knowing how many group contracts or charters it would bring… Puerto Vallarta
must maintain its presence in the European market." In
the first eight months of this year, the Tourism Trust Fund of Puerto Vallarta
has spent $ 5.7 Million pesos for publicity throughout Mexico, $889,000. pesos
for Canada and the United States and $ 433,000. pesos for Europe. The
cost of the six-country European tour by the Vallarta delegation was estimated
at $120,000. pesos.
Complaints Against
the CFE Increasing The number of complaints submitted
to PROFECO (the Consumer Protection agency) keeps on rising against the federal
electricity commission (CFE) and the excessive fees being charged to domestic
users. There have been over 30 official complaints in the last two months alone,
where consumers have demonstrated increases reaching up to 400%. This
has caused the organization to initiate inspections to make sure there are no
leaks.
New SPA & Health Center
to Open Soon Well-known TV actress Michelle Vieth
and actor-husband Hector Soberon have joined up with John Blomfield to open a
Spa and Health Center called "Metztli", the Nahuatl name for the goddess
of the moon. The opening of this all-inclusive center
is scheduled for the beginning of November and will include a Gold's Gym that
besides exceeding the standards of the world-famous chain, will also be authorized
to train instructors. Guests will be able to enjoy a multitude
of specialized services including a wide range of massages such as: algae, mineral
salts, exfoliating with natural fruit, facials, etc. as well as aromatherapy.
Ancient treatments from the pre-Hispanic cultures using herbs will also be offered. The
center will include a restaurant that will offer dishes according to one's blood
type. This is based on the modern theory that each blood type requires specific
nutrients, while rejecting specific toxins.
SOS
Animal Aims to Raise Ecological Awareness One aspect
of culture is ecological consciousness, in which man must participate more frequently,
for his own good. The damage caused by humans to various species of animals that
make up a delicate ecosystem is well known. But what about abandoned domestic
animals? A recently-formed group intends to find solutions
to these situations, not just by approaching them as a contamination problem,
but rather by raising awareness because the lack of sensitivity for life itself
is a problem that will have consequences sooner or later. Monica
Gonzalez, president of SOS Animal, spoke to us of the association: "This
is a non-profit association created last June. It only has six members whose goal
is to held street animals that are handicapped, sick or abandoned, to bring them
to a shelter. This is our main goal, to raise funds to build a shelter where we
could bring all those animals, us along with others who are doing the same work.
Some of them do it in their own homes and those look like zoos. We definitely
need a place where all those animals may be gathered to get the attention and
care they need." With regard to the help they have
gotten so far, Sra. Gonzalez stated that it was really minimal, even "non-existent".
In order to raise funds, they have organized dinners, raffles, T-shirt sales,
but up to now, they didn't get anyone's help. Despite
that, the lady said she does have the approval of those whom she has asked for
help, but those people do not want to get involved too much even though it would
benefit them, as well as the community at large. Monica Gonzalez added: "In
any case, the group is grateful for the support of those who in one way or another
did lend their support. Apart from hands, we need financial support too, because
when we have those animals in our care, this implies expenses. I
believe this is something beneficial to all, something that involves the city
most of all is the need for us to solve the problem of street dogs some way. There
are lots of them and it is something that will not happen quickly, but we have
to start. On the other hand, our idea is also to raise
awareness among people about what a pet really is, what is really involved in
having one in the house. And if you don't have one yourself, to understand what
any animal is, a living being, created by the same Creator as He who created us,
beings that deserve all our respect and deserve to live with dignity. They haven't
done anything to deserve our mistreatment or torture. Besides, they are defenseless.
Many people see an animal as if it were something without feeling, without purpose.
There is no respect for life in general and that is very sad. In Mexico, this
type of culture has not been handled as it should have been." The
City Council of Puerto Vallarta was considering an Animal Shelter at one point,
that was supposed to open this year, but the project remained on the table and
no one knows for how long. In that regard, Sra. Gonzalez pointed out that there
have been talks with one of the councilmen to work with the municipal government,
but there has been no progress because the gentleman was busy and free times did
not coincide. With regard to education, Monica said that
they plan to give talks in elementary schools and kindergartens as children are
most receptive and they can still be re-educated. "Imagine
how sad it is, I have seen one-year-old children, who still have to hold on to
their father's hand to walk, where the father urges the child to kick the dog
that's just there, to get it out of the way so that they can pass. I just die
of sadness to see a child of that age, unaware of things, being taught to mistreat
animals. This is something that must be attacked on all fronts, from the little
ones all the way to the parents." In conclusion,
the SOS Animal representative recommends that anyone interested in helping first
take care of any abandoned animal in their own home first before moving it. And
to avoid this type of case repeating itself, she is asking the community for a
piece of land where the animal shelter project could be realized, financial resources
for its construction - and part-time volunteers. Anyone
interested in helping out is invited to call 293-2018, 293-0108 and 224-3978
From
Angela First Anniversary for Puertas Abiertas The
Street Children's Dormitory, Puertas Abiertas (Open Doors) of DIF (Integral Family
Development) located in Coapinole celebrated its first anniversary. DIF President
Mayra Burgos Lopez said, "after a year the work has just begun in this important
program for street children and all of Vallarta. It is a space for these children,
perhaps not the best in the world, but we are working hard to have a safe, clean
place for them." Burgos thanked all who have believed
and worked for the success of Puertas Abiertas. She concluded by saying that day
by day it is a continuing struggle for street children.
Diana Saenz Bermudez,
Director of the dorm, noted that her work was very gratifying. 'I have seen children
stop their drug use and integrate themselves in the family atmosphere of Puertas
Abiertas." The Dormitory has received assistance from several municipal agencies,
the Fire Department and the Municipal Family Counsel, which looks into the legal
standing of the children. The children's process of integration,
noted Saenz, begins with a change of habits, living again with rules. Hygiene,
socialization and tolerance are part of the process that little by little takes
place in each of the 18 children. The children are attending Spanish, mathematics,
history and geography classes. Child Abuse Posters Unfortunately
the City and DIF have continued to distribute the "Sexual Abuse Against Children
is a Crime" posters - without changes. US Consular Agent, Kelly Trainor had
spoken with DIF President Mayra Burgos in early September, Burgos said she would
block out the US Passport featured in the poster. To date this has not happened.
The posters now have appeared unchanged in the Los Muertos area. Why should all
US citizens be tarred with the same brush? Dataline
Vallarta
Mark your October Calendar! A concert
to aid the handicapped children of the Estancia Infantil Pasitos de Luz, on October
26, 8 p.m. at the Plaza de Toros (Bull Ring), The theme is a Song of Love for
the Special Children,
with performances by Eddie Woolsey, Bertha Hernadez and
Marina Murua.
Tickets are 60 pesos in advance and 100 pesos at the door. To
get your tickets call Susie at 044-322-229-9389 or Frank (after Oct. 18) at 221-5316.
. The first Old Town Art Walk is Wednesday, October 30,
from 6 to 10 p.m. and the theme at Galeria Vallarta will be Día de los
Muertos with a collective art exposition and an altar in honor of Galeria Vallarta
founder, Gene Peters. Art Walk participating galleries
are Galeria Uno, Corsica, Nova Gallery, Galeria Arte Latinoamericano, Arte V,
Galeria de Ollas, Judith Ewing Morlan Contemporary Art, Arte Popular Mexicano,
Ted Pentecost´s Gallery, and Galeria Vallarta. Galeria
Vallarta is opening a second store in Plaza Neptuno, locale D14 & 15 this
week. It is almost finished and will feature fine art, sculpture, posters and
jewelry. Inauguration is projected to probably be around Oct. 18th. Golf
Happenings The Golf Tianguis (trade fair) is scheduled
October 12-13 at the Krystal, find out about all the great golf in Mexico.
The
Tour de Las Americas, Tournament is scheduled October 31- November 2 at El Tigre
Golf Course at Paradise Village Archives
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