Zona PVR No. 006

PVR

ZONA

M A G A Z I N E the ULTIMATE

WEEKEND C I TT YY GG UU II DD EE WINE BAR TOUR

TEQUILA: BLANCO The Mexican Elixir

No. 006 Spring 2023

WONDER WONDER WOMAN

Meet Francie Nguyen

DIGITAL

UNDERGROUND RAILROAD Michael Failla Is On A Mission

A Day at Sea Private Charters

INCLUDES: 4, 6 or 8 Hour Cruise Up to 8 Adults Captain Snorkel Gear Water/Ice/Mixers Catering Available

Adult Only Gay Friendly Tour Guide Available

322-183-7346

A WORD FROM OUR EDITOR, MEMO HUERTA.

issue no.6

CONTENTS The Ultimate PV WEEKEND Guide Where To Sleep, Eat, See & Be Seen In

e Zona

DIGITAL RAILROAD Michael Failla Is Working With Refugee NGO's To Give LGBTQI Refugees A New Lease On Life

Photographic Eye Angelo Caravelli Shows Us How He Sees PV

rough His Photo Lens

Our 5 Favorite Wine Bars e 5 Wine Bars You Should Know In

e Area

Tequila Blanco A Little History On

Welcome to our Spring 2023 issue! We are celebrating our sophomore year with a new design but the same spirit of adventure and discovery! We're very proud of the pages you’re now holding because they’re lled with stories of individuals making a di erence, ghting for those without a voice and facing incredible odds. It´s stories like those of Francie, Michael and Rodolfo that make this city such a wonderfully exciting and interesting city. e entropy that makes up life in Puerto Vallarta is part of the magical ride that this city takes on you every time you visit, or return. We’ve put together some of our favorite places in our Ultimate Weekend Guide for you to consider and also share some of the history of our famous spirit, Te uila.

Angelo Caraveli shows us his PV in photos and Je Wright tells us about Marlow´s, the new ´it´ table in town. As well as a short article by Dr. Daniela Vargas on men and stru les of just growing and learning. We hope you enjoy our issue and invite you to visit our website for more information and articles by scanning the R code on this page on our cover. Once again we thank all of our advertisers and supporters for your continued support.

e Classic Local Drink

The Man Under Construction Dr Daniela Vargas Explains How Men Are A ected By Experience Sexuality & Violence

Francie Nyuguen A Local Hero For Back To PV

e Community, Meet.

e Woman Giving

Foodie Recommendation Je Wright Tells Us About

e Newest Place To Have Dinner In Town

CHECK OUT PAST ISSUES, ONLINE EXCLUSIVE ARTICLES & OIN OUR NEWSLE ER ON OUR WEBSITE! POINT YOUR PHONE'S CAMERA AT THIS R CODE

We Build Dreams

Architecture / General Contracting contractorpv.com

info@contractorpv.com

the ULTIMATE

WEEKEND CITY GUIDE Where to Eat, Sleep, Tan & Be Seen

AMAZING PLACES TO STAY IN PUERTO VALLARTA On any vacation the place you stay can make or break the experience.

Puerto Vallarta offers some of the best accomodations you´ve ever seen, something for every taste and mood.

MOUSAI 15 Minutes south of Zona Romantica the city´s only 5 diamond hotel sets the pace for a new generation of designer hotels, offering exclusive experiences by the beach and delicious pampering in unrivaled tropical surroundings. If you´re looking for a luxe yet low key experience stay here and enjoy the rooftop area.

Carr. a Barra de Navidad Km. 7.5

HACIENDA SAN ANGEL This high end old spanish style haciend hotel is the deifinition of old school glamour and class.

Stay here to be close to the art galleries and some of the high end restaurants the city has to offer.

Carr. a Barra de Navidad Km. 7.5

ALMAR

The only gay luxury beach front hotel in the city, perhaps the country, Almar has it all. From restaurants to shows, amazing pools & views.

Just across the street is Mantamar, Almar´s beach club, a great place to see and be seen!

Fun fact: They have some of the best sushi in the city and access is included when you´re a guest at the hotel.

Amapas 380, Zona Romántica

CULINARY HIGHLIGHTS One of the best experiences to be had in Puerto Vallarta is having dinner out in the city. These are the reservations we suggest you make sooner than later.

THE SWEDES

A staple in PV for over a decade, The Swedes may be the only night that your friend group dresses up, (or simply wears sleeves) and getting a reservation in your itinerary is a smart choice. Sexy atmosphere filled with visiting groups and a fun bar with a view upstairs. Try to make it for their Pink Wednesday, cause... on Wednesdays we wear pink, duh!

Púlpito 154, Zona Romántica

LA FINA BONITO KITCHEN Offering a fusion of Mexican and Mediterranean cuisine, this charming and inviting restaurant is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Venustiano Carranza 512, Zona Romántica

Off the beaten path, this little casita is lid up at night illuminating its quite little neighborhood and will make you feel like you've been transported to a world of color and flavors! Reservations are recommended and make sure to try their Mezcal cocktails!

Atmósfera 149, El Caloso

SWEET TOOTH They dont call it Zona Romantica for nothing... after dinner make sure to pick up a scoop or two from any of these delicious places and take a romantic stroll down the cobblestonned streets of this beautiful zona.

JALATO The newest of the three, Jalato is a bit hidden from view but perfectly located near Olas Altas, they make homa made Gelato and their owner and staff members are a delight themselves. *they have Vegan flavors!

Rodolfo Gómez 141 locale 15, Olas Altas

LIX Probably the best known spot, LIX is a delicious ice cream spot with amazing flavors where you can also pick up a brownie or coffee for your post dinner cravings!

Basilio Badillo 168C, Zona Romántica

SABORES The Local spot! The owner has been making his delicious ice creams for years and is a must while you are here! We recommend you try the goat cheese & caramel flavor, you´ll thank us!!

Constitución 279, Zona Romántica

BOAT ACCESS ONLY Beach Clubs are great places to spend a day, dance on the beach and make memories.

While most of these places have restricted access at the door, what if the access to the door was restricted itself? These beach clubs can only be arrived by boat making them some of the most exclusive beach clubs in the country! Enjoy your day here ´cause... YOU´VE ARRIVED!

CASITAS MARAIKA

This hidden paradise is just south of Puerto Vallarta. Relax on the secluded beach, swim in the crystal clear waters, or enjoy a refreshing drink at the beachside bar with its great dancing atmosphere the dj will have you going all day perfect spot for a peaceful day by the sea.

ANIMA AKALI A trendy and chic spot located just south of Puerto Vallarta. With its lively atmosphere, delicious food and drinks, and stunning ocean views, it is a must-visit for anyone looking for a fun and stylish day by the beach.

The newest of the bunch, vibrant and breezy with a ¨tuluminatti¨ feel to it. Anima has the largest beach of the three has been acttracting a young cool jetset crowd. On weekends, Anima Beach Club hosts DJ sets that keep the party going all day long.

COPA & CABANNA One of the best ways to enjoy a vacation day is to just sit poolside , sip on a cocktail and enjoy the view (the beach or the people). Puerto Vallarta has great pool areas but here are our favorites for socializing and being seen!

MANTAMAR With its trendy vibe, delicious food, and refreshing drinks, this beach club has something for everyone. Lounge on the beach, take a dip in the infinity pool, or sip a cocktail at the bar Mantamar is the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun.

Malecón 169, Zona Romántica

SAPPHIRE BEACH CLUB A hidden gem nestled on the pristine shores of Puerto Vallarta. With its stunning views of the ocean and surrounding mountains, this resort offers guests a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Enjoy a day at the beach, sip a cocktail by the pool, or indulge in a spa treatment - whatever your preference, Sapphire Beach Club has something for everyone.

Malecón 1, Zona Romántica

CASA CUPULA Casa Cupula is a luxurious boutique hotel that features stunning ocean views, beautifully appointed rooms and suites, a large infinity pool, and a spa, making it the perfect destination for a relaxing and indulgent getaway. Dont miss their sexy pool parties and new larger pool area!

Callejon de la Igualdad 129, Amapas

SUNSET DRINKS One thing that Puerto Vallarta always offers is unbeatable sunsets. Like snowflakes, they are similar but never the same. The bay engulfs all the colors of the disappearing star, giving way to an always exciting night.

Cocktails at sunset is always a great start.

CHICTINI The perfect spot to catch the sunset and enjoy their famous happy hour. Their pool takes center stage and is surrounded by comfortable sitting areas, perfect for sunset gazing. Get their early and relax way above the city.

Púlpito 179, Zona Romántica

THE GIN JOINT High above the Grand Miramar Hotel you will find one of the largest rooftop spaces in the city. The Gin Joint offers amazing cocktails, amazing views and large outdoor sitting spaces so you and your companions can enjoy the view and gear up for a night out.

P.º de Los Corales 139, Conchas Chinas

PATIO AZUL The coziest of the three, Patio Azul with its blue and white colors and warm lighting will have you wanting to stay. Perfect for a quite and romantic date.

P.º de Las Conchas Chinas 127, Conchas Chinas

HOT TICKETS Puerto Vallarta is always a show, wether you're people watching or seeing the professionals at a cabaret. Here are the top three venues in Zona Romantica!

THE PALM CABARET The most popular stage in town, we've never left The Palm not feeling inspired, excited and ready to go out!

Insurgentes 109, Zona Romántica

INCANTO A classic in the area, Incanto has two stages and a packed schedule of local and traveling performers! You´re always guaranteed to feel at home here.

Insurgentes 109, Zona Romántica

ACT2PV One of the best locations in town, this venue is a favorite of many visitors and local because it has multiple stages and a lively atmosphere!

Basilio Badillo & Insurgentes 339, Zona Romántica

DIGITAL UNDERGOUND RAILROAD MICHAEL

FAILLA

REFUGEES

THROUGH

TALIBAN

AND

LENGTHY

AND

ON

A

TO A NEW LIFE. Wr i t t e n by M e m o H u e r t a

IS

GUIDING

LGBTQI+

TERRITORIES

DANGEROUS

ROAD

I first met Michael through a friend, who also calls Seattle home but as many now has decided to spend the winter months in Puerto Vallarta. ¨He´s gotta be one of the most interesting people I have ever met.¨ my friend insisted, ¨he spends his time saving lives from, worrying about people thousands of miles away while the rest of us are staggering from Flamingo´s to CC´s.¨.

That specific stretch, between those two iconic bars, may just be the gayest corner in Puerto Vallarta, if not Mexico. The rainbow colored crosswalk may not seem extraordinary to many but in this country it is a giant leap forward socially and culturally. Those 12 colored bars become a runway for members of the LGBTQI community to proudly and safely parade between the ¨gay street¨ bars. Zona Romantica is a place where members of this community are not only accepted but celebrated, a city that thrives on welcoming and embracing them.

And yet just a few blocks away from this gay utopia, Michael is up, also very late. He has his phone in one hand and is sitting in front of the computer. He is guiding a young refugee named ····· through Taliban checkpoints in order to get him to a Taliban-run airport and then hopefully onto an airplane on which Michael has secured 19 seats out of the area.

Michael has 19 lives he can potentially save, but he has over 200 refugees contacting him for help. His phone is constantly blowing up like a night sky bat signal.

Michael Failla is a renowned human rights activist and advocate for LGBTI rights. For many years, he has been dedicated to advocating for the rights of marginalized groups, particularly LGBTI refugees.

Through his work, Failla has played a crucial role in raising awareness about the plight of LGBTI refugees and advocating for their protection and support.

Failla's work with LGBTI refugees began in the early 2010, when he first became involved with helping a young Iraqi soldier who was outed as gay and threatened with death from an honor killing. Failla helped him escape from Iraq to Lebanon and then met with and challenged the UNHCR to monitor bigoted anti lgbtqi employees and then worked with the UNHCR and Rainbow Refugee to get him resettled to Canada and eventually united with his now husband in Seattle. various non-governmental organizations (NGOs) working in the refugee and asylum-seeking sector. At the time, there was very little awareness about the specific needs and challenges facing LGBTI refugees, and they were often overlooked or discriminated against by mainstream organizations.

Failla quickly realized that there was a pressing need for more targeted support and advocacy for LGBTI Failla's work with refugee NGO's has been instrumental in raising awareness about the unique challenges facing LGBTI refugees. One of the biggest challenges for LGBTI refugees is the lack of legal protections and recognition in many countries. In many cases, LGBTI refugees are not recognized as a specific category of refugees, which can make it difficult for them to access legal protections and support.

Through his advocacy work, Failla has been instrumental in pushing for greater recognition and protection for LGBTI refugees. He has worked closely with policymakers and government officials to raise awareness about the specific needs of LGBTI refugees and advocate for changes in policy and practice to better support them.

In addition to his work with NGO´s, Failla has also been involved with various other organizations and initiatives focused on supporting LGBTI refugees. He has served as a consultant and advisor to a number of NGOs and government agencies, providing expert guidance and support on issues related to LGBTI refugees.

Michael´s niche of work is so unique because he does something that other organizations dont, they may help with helping getting refugees resettled but Michael is procurring hiding spaces for them, emotional support.

Michael communicates directly, constantly keeping them from committing suicide, as well as sending them money for rent, food, bills, anything they need while in hiding.

Michael shares with me that he currently has 59 in Pakistan with no place to go, so he sends their profiles to the different organizations that might be able to help, but this is along process and in the meanwhile Michael is everything to these refugees.

¨I HAVE TO BE THERE FOR THEM WHEN A REFUGEE IS ABOUT TO JUMP OVER A LEDGE OR WHEN THEY ARE HIDING FROM A TALIBAN INSPECTION IN THEIR BUILDING¨ Failla's work has also had a broader impact on the human rights and refugee sectors more broadly. By highlighting the specific challenges facing LGBTI refugees, he has helped to shift the conversation around refugee and asylumseeking issues to include a greater focus on the needs and experiences of marginalized and vulnerable groups.

Through his work, Failla has demonstrated the power of grassroots activism and advocacy in bringing about positive change. His dedication and commitment to the cause of LGBTI rights has inspired countless others to get involved and take action to support marginalized communities around the world.

Overall, Michael Failla's work with LGBTI refugees has been instrumental in raising awareness about the unique challenges facing this vulnerable group.

Through his advocacy and support, he has helped to provide a lifeline for countless individuals fleeing persecution and violence in their home countries. His work serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of human rights activism and the need for continued efforts to protect and support marginalized communities around the world.

Michael lives with his husband Gary between Seattle and Puerto Vallarta.

Gary is a support pillar for Michael through this amazing and difficult work.

They hope to find the support of Canadian residents for a program in which four Canadian citizens can sponsor a refugee into the country. This has so far been the best way to get these persons to safety. It’s a long path but well worth it. If you are interested in helping Michael in his efforts please consider checking out the following website.

https://www.scmmedicalmissions.org/donations/new-life-fund/

The Man Under Construction Experience, Sexuality and Violence Written by Daniela Vargas Degree in Law & Psychology with a Master's Degree in Brief Strategic Therapy

The historian Plutarch posed the following enigma: When Theseus returned from the labyrinth, his ship was preserved in Athens as a monument, of course, over time it needed to be repaired, after a thousand years, each and every one of its parts had been replaced. The question is, was it still Theseus' ship?

From the psychological point of view we are bio-psycho-social beings, commonly it could be explained as a set of our ancestors, the environment and the decisions we make in particular circumstances, and as through time in the words of the Psych. George Kelly we are becoming architects of our own destiny.

Below is a long story made short, about violence in sexuality from the masculine.

S ocial Aspects of S exuality

According to the World Health Organization (2006)1, sexuality is a central aspect of the human being, present throughout his life. It covers sex, gender identities and roles, eroticism, pleasure, intimacy, reproduction and sexual orientation. It is experienced and expressed through thoughts, fantasies, beliefs, attitudes, values, behaviors, role practices, and interpersonal relationships.

Violenc e and S exuality

S exuality is a system within the life of the human being that is made up of four characteristics: eroticism, affective bonding, reproductive and genetic (genotype) and physical (phenotype) sex.2

Each

of

the

features

will

present

very

specific

problems.

Thus

we

find

in

sex,

the

problems

of

homophobia,

violence against women, sexual inequality, etc. In affective bonding there are love/hate relationships, violence in the couple, jealousy and control of the couple. Eroticism will present problems such as sexual dysfunction and sexually

transmitted

infections.

As

regards

reproduction,

fertility

disorders,

violence

and

child

abuse,

abandonment of children, etc. are observed. 3 Dr. Ostrosky points out that “Violence is aggressive behavior that is intended to cause physical or psychological harm. It should be noted that in this definition, the word intention is central, since physical or psychological damage that

occurs

aggression

by

accident

without

or

violence,

without for

intention

example,

is

not

when

we

and

should

defend

not

ourselves

be

considered

from

a

violence.

physical

attack,

This

is:

there

but

there

is

is no

violence without aggression, it will always be exercised 4with the purpose of causing harm”.

Male E xperienc es in the E xpression of their S exual Diversity

“A significant proportion of LGTB+ people suffer physical and psychological violence; including verbal and emotional abuse, sexual violence, including rape, blackmail and harassment, bullying and cyber bullying, among other types of gender violence or gender identity/expression”. 5

Why is violence common in intimate relationships? In this sense, Helen Fisher (anthropologist, researcher in the Neurobiology of love) has explained why it is said that love is blind. "When we are in love, an area of the brain is deactivated." It is a part of the cerebral amygdala, which is related to fear. That's why "we don't see the aspects we don't like and we accept the rest".

Unlearning What Has Been Learned

Walter Riso creates some problematic questions such as: Why is male suffering underestimated?

Where does that strange mixture of astonishment and disbelief come from when a man complains about his social role?

Clarifying us that in “Masculine initiation rites that enhance strength have existed in almost all cultures and through all times. From the severe Spartan training of the Greeks and the knights of the Middle Ages to the traumatic military service, all, without exception, seem to share the same principle: to become a man and to be recognized as such, it is necessary to suffer.”6 From the perspective of the new masculinity, the new male is not troubled by mythical ideals of success, power, strength, self-control, efficiency, competitiveness, callousness, and aggression. 7

1 WHO S exuality https:// www. amsafelacapital.org. ar/201 6/ amsafe_va_a_la_escuela/ esi/02-definicion_sexualidad. pdf

To help in your process, there

2 Fact Sheet: S ex, Eroticism and infinite love, Ana Laura Rosas Bucio, 2014, p. 12 3 ibid.

is the Men's Emergency Line:

4 Fact Sheet: Killer Minds, Violence in Your Brain, Dr Feggy Ostrosk y, pg. 23 5 Adapted from: Fact Sheet: Open Mind, United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, p.12 6 Fact Sheet: Male affectivity, Walter Risso, p. eleven 7 ibid.

554757 9288 https://gendes.org.mx/

PHOTOGRAPHIC EYE

ANGELO CARAVELLI

¨What inspires me the most about Vallarta are its streets. The combination between nature and colonial architecture, plus the vibrant colors that you can find everywhere. The little alleys you stumble into, brick stairs and cobbled streets. All this allows you to combine street and editorial photography in such a perfect way that you can play with textures, colors and compositions.¨

Angelo Caravell @caravelli.angelo i

WINE LIST 2023 Our 5 Favorite Wine Bars in the area

Unique Space

CASITA & GARDEN This new and unique space is perfect for a meet up with friends, a chat and some wine! it's also perfect to stop by and get a bottleof wine or some cheese for any event.

THE SECRET WINE BAR Also a new spot in town but no longer a secret, nestled behind litten brod bakery. they have a great wine selection and cozy atmoshpere.

VIVERO WINE BAR Amazing Mexican wines and an incredibly fun owner make this place a must. The amazing views aren't bad either!

GRANVAS Where the cool kids hang out. Live music and a great wine list make it oneof the cool spots in town, just over the cuale.

OFELIA'S WINE BAR PErfectly located this small but popping wine bar is a fun discovery for visitors and a known good times by locals! You can order from Il Pesce next door now!

TEQUILA: BLANCO Mexico´s Gift to the World

Tequila is a type of distilled spirit made from the blue agave plant, primarily grown in the area surrounding the city of Tequila, 65 km (40 mi) northwest of Guadalajara, and in the highlands (Los Altos) of the central Mexican state of Jalisco. Tequila is most often made at a 38–40% alcohol content (76–80 proof), but can be produced between 31 and 55% alcohol content (62 and 110 proof).

The drink is a traditional Mexican spirit that has been enjoyed for centuries. The process of making tequila begins with the cultivation of the blue agave plant, which takes around 8-12 years to mature. Once the plant is ready, the heart of the agave, called the piña, is harvested and cooked to release the juice. The juice is then fermented and distilled to create the final product.

Tequila is traditionally served neat, meaning it is not mixed with any other ingredients, and is often enjoyed as a sipping spirit. It is also a popular ingredient in many cocktails, such as the Margarita and the Tequila Sunrise. There are two main types of tequila, blanco and aged. Blanco, also known as white or silver, is the most common type of tequila and is aged for no more than 60

days in stainless steel tanks. Aged tequilas, such as reposado and añejo, are aged for at least two months and up to three years in oak barrels. The aging process imparts a distinct flavor and a golden color to the tequila.

The spirit has a rich cultural history and is closely tied to Mexican tradition and heritage. It is often associated with celebrations and festivals, and its production is closely regulated by the Mexican government to ensure that it is made according to traditional methods.

In recent years, tequila has gained popularity worldwide and is now widely available in many countries. it is a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, from sipping it neat to mixing it in cocktails. With a wide range of flavors and styles to choose from, there is a tequila to suit every palate.

Francie Nguyen

Wonder Woman ¨The only reason we can do so much is because we have the support of the community¨

Francie starts her day with two hours to herself. Whether it´s yoga, meditation, or her passion of gardening, she makes sure to spend some time focusing on herself before her busy day starts! She is a New Yorker who worked in fashion with brands like Anthropologie and spent her days traveling for work.

During her time in the Big Apple, she volunteered with the Red Cross and many soup kitchens. She visited Mexico plenty for pleasure and eventually fell in love with the country. About 8 years ago, after losing her sister to cancer, Francie decided to move to Mexico City and start a new life. In Mexico City, she worked as a consultant for fashion houses and lived in the trendy Roma Norte neighborhood. While living and working in the large capital Francie used her weekends to travel to some of the popular beaches Mexico has. Cabo, Cancun & Acapulco were all nice places, but Puerto Vallarta really resonated with her.

A year later Francie decided to move to Puerto Vallarta and work remotely. Although she was happy in her new city, she found that she was missing Asian food. In 2018, the first Bonito Kitchen was opened in the Gaviotas area. The restaurant was intended to add Asian flavor to the city´s gastronomical palette.

Bonito Kitchen started a trend of Pho, Ramen and Bao which instantly became very popular. Bonito Kitchen experienced quick growth but that was shut down quickly thanks to the pandemic, when only the original restaurant was left.

During the pandemic, seeing how people were being left suddenly without jobs and with families to feed, it made Francie think about what the community needed. This time, with the help of friends, she founded the Vallarta Food Bank. They started a GoFundMe, Facebook page and website and hit the ground running. They were soon giving out 30,000 despensas (or provisions like beans, rice milk and eggs) per month.

¨Let´s give back to Mexico¨ Vallarta Food Bank was determined to do as much as they could for the community and was supported by many wonderful and generous people. Francie also appealed to the department store COPPEL and received a generous donation which enabled the food bank to expand and help thousands more people.

CHABAD of Puerto Vallarta also offered their center (which was not in use because of the pandemic) for the team to make the despensas. After this she says it, all just snowballed.

On a visit to the remote neighborhoods to deliver the provisions Francie realized that all the neighbors were getting together to cook. Even though they didn’t have much, the community asked her and her team to join them for lunch.

¨It was beautiful to see how generous people could be¨ The neighbors explained how because of the difficult economic situation they cannot purchase gas to cook, so they all got together to cook and share meals. The men hunted nearby wild porcupines and with the provisions provided they created communal feasts; they created the community itself. Seeing the extent of the need being felt in this small neighborhood and many other neighborhoods, the team at the food bank decided to create the soup kitchen and started serving hot meals. With the help of many volunteers, to this day, the food bank continues to make despensas, cook hot meals, and take care of the families in need. For 5 days a week, anywhere between 600 and 800 meals are given out daily. Their efforts are focused on the elderly, displaced families and single mothers but do not turn away anyone.

At their premise, they offer a safe place to shower and a laundry facility. Once a week, a medical doctor is available to see patients. English lessons, trade courses and health and safety lectures were also provided.

The food bank also helps with Emergency Relief Services during rainy seasons. When Hurricane Nora hit in 2021, the food bank quickly assembled an emergency service team and helped clean up neighborhoods, businesses, homes. They also provided mattresses, refrigerators, stoves, food, clothing, and household supplies from donations.

To continue its mission, Vallarta Food Bank takes donations and does many fundraising events. The next event is on Sunday March 5th will take place at ACT2PV with more info to come. To donate please scan the QR code in the following page.

¨When girls are given an opportunity & an education they excel and give back¨ Many young girls in the community are often put to work or married young due to financial burdens.

When a family must choose which child goes to school, it´s boy´s educations that get prioritized. Francie ´s latest project is the Vallarta School for Girls which opened its doors on January 24, 2023, to provide excellent private education for young girls. The school is currently looking for sponsors, 200 USD a month covers all the expenses for one student. The girls enrolled will have a version of the SEP curriculum plus a more comprehensive program of English, computer science, health education, art, music, etc. There are 16 girls in the inaugural class and is expected to grow up to 60 by 2024. To donate please visit www.girlsedfund.org or scan the following QR code.

Always busy, Francie opened the third Bonito Kitchen in Zona Romantica a year after the second one was destroyed by Hurricane Nora. She also teamed up with architect Fernando Garcia to create Casita & Garden, a wine and sake shop and garden. The beautiful venue is the newest staple in Zona Romantica.

Any given day of the week you might find yourself there for one of their many events, out on a date or just meeting up with friends. This space is the representation of her love for Mexico and green spaces.

¨Mexican wine is so good now and i wanted to showcase it. ...and there´s not a lot of places to have Sake in MExico¨ This welcoming casita with a huge garden area is a one stop shop for all things. The house is a boutique shop with products like smoked oysters, cheese, charcuterie, and of course, wine and sake. They even have a small nursery of herbs and flowers. The space is meant to both entertain and hold events such as chef’s tables, weddings, and fundraisers for which it is always available. They have live music with Diego Guerrero on Tuesdays and Fernanda Hernandez on Saturdays from 7:30-9:30pm. On Wednesdays, their brick oven is busy cooking wood-fired pizza. Soon, Casita & Garden will offer pizza Monday-Saturday.

Our community is shaped and fortified by individuals like Francie who are dedicated with enriching it and giving back. For that, we’re grateful.

Foodie Recommendation

By Jeff Wright

Marlow´s

Basilio Badillo 277, Zona Romantica, Emiliano Zapata

hen I moved to Puerto Vallarta 5 years ago, I quickly discovered the restaurant Roberto´s on Basilio Badillo. The food and prices were very good, and I ended up dining there regularly; but the highlight was the friendly and personal service provided by Roberto and his staff.

The Vallarta Artisan Chocolotier Xocodiva leased a small space in the front section of the former Roberto’s in order to open a branch of their chocolate shops. The shop has been doing well for several years now. The other available space of what had been Roberto’s was also leased out, leaving only the area behind Xocodiva empty.

Roberto Castellon came to Vallarta for vacation in 1977 and, like so many of us, he liked it here so much that he stayed. To make money he went to work at the Restaurant El Set in Conchas Chinas. He did well there (he was bilingual at a time when most waiters in Puerto Vallarta only spoke Spanish) and he likedthe work. Within a few years he had opened his own restaurant, Roberto’s, which was in business for 33 years!

Ron Story, who along with his wife Laura, are the owners of Xocodiva, approached Roberto last year about jointly opening a small boutique restaurant in the space behind the chocolate shop, and Roberto, who was ready for a new adventure, liked the idea. Ergo: Marlow’s Dining Room opened just a couple of months ago.

(Marlow is the name of Ron and Laura’s youngest granddaughter.) In my opinion, Marlow’s is exactly what Puerto Vallarta needed in a city already known for its assortment of great restaurants. The quality and presentation of the food ranks with Tintoque and Café des Artistes, though the prices are more diner-friendly.

W

Fast-forward to “the time of COVID”, and Roberto’s shuttered its doors.

When I next ran into Roberto, he told me that he had decided to retire while he was still young enough to enjoy his retirement. Additionally, he owns the building where his restaurant had been, and he was soon able to lease out the available space.

Jonathan Rico, a native of Mexico City, is the chef responsible for the amazing dishes at Marlow’s. His love

of food, creativity, and innovation are evident in every dish that the restaurant serves. He mixes classic Mexican flavors and seasonings, which he learned from his family while growing up, with Asian and European spices and techniques. His years of working in other restaurants, both in Vallarta and Mexico City, greatly influenced his style; and his role as top chef at Marlow’s has allowed him the opportunity to explore more avantgarde dishes and recipes. His attention to detail is exquisite.

When I asked Roberto about the most popular dishes at Marlow’s, he mentioned the Crispy Pork Belly Chicharron, the Vietnamese Roll, and the Shitake Mushroom Croquettes as popular appetizers, and the Vacio Steak as his favorite entrée. The Vacio is a tender South American cut served with an amazing chimichurri sauce.

I have dined at Marlow’s three times already, and I highly recommend the French-Cut Pork Chop, the Soft-Shell Crab, and the outstanding Sea Bass which is a frequent Catch of the Day. Vegetarian, Vegan, and Gluten-Free choices are also available. The wine list is concise but well-edited, and cocktails are also available.

The restaurant is small ,chic, and very elegant, with just 24 seats, so reservations are recommended.

Rodolfo Blanco The New (Not New) Artist in Town

Art & Culture

How was this artistic version of you created as a child?

When I was a child I really liked cartoons and I think my greatest desire was to have a color television, it wasn’t until I was 8 years old that my mother formed a relationship with who is now my stepfather and we were able to buy it. My intention was always to draw and imitate the vibrant colors of the cartoons, but as a child I did not understand the whole definition of what art really was, I just knew that I really enjoyed drawing the popular cartoons of those times such as Thundercats, Heman, Mazinger Z. etc. It was then that my mother realized that I had an interest in art and enrolled me in a drawing workshop where I learned some techniques that now help me in my artistic work.

Another factor involved in my childhood is that unfortunately I lived in a family where, occasionally, there was domestic violence, either physical or verbal, which made it difficult for me to develop my personality outside and within art. Already in my adolescence, there was a lot of bullying, especially in northern Mexico, which is where I am from, for things like: having a single mother, or even more, for being gay or ¨joto¨ as they name it over there. I always related the activity of painting to being sensitive, so drawing was an activity that I learned to hide very early on and I

suppressed it for a long time to avoid comments because I was afraid that someone would find out about my sexual preferences, so I decided to keep quiet. and idle.

At this age is when we also had the opportunity to move to the United States where I began to work more doing art projects.

In High School I entered an advanced art program in the afternoons and I was able to develop more freely my own persona and my style of artwork, since fortunately in the US, the situation at home also improved and I was able to be closer to what I really loved to do, which is creating art without disturbances.

What were your great artistic inspirations as a child and now as an adult?

I think my first inspirations were Michael Jackson, his music, his videos, his dance moves. I think I felt that he was in a special and unreachable place, besides that he was a strange person, I felt some common ground with him, or maybe he made me feel that I was not alone. My grandmother was another life inspiration, she always brought me lunch and

@thestarvingartistgallerypv

How are you at this moment artistically? sweets to the kindergarten at my recess and talked about many things with me, one thing that I remember very clearly was when she told me Öne day I was little like you, and quickly the years have passed and I'm already here, an old lady, sitting with you.¨ Another inspiration as a child was my aunt Virginia, because she always sent Christmas gifts from the USA and she was like my Santa Claus, and I remember that year after year, I anxiously awaited that box with clothes and gifts that always had a very pleasant aroma. I know that sounds somewhat materialistic, but well, I was a child, and that is what children want at that time.

Now as an adult I learned to appreciate and take in different inspirations, like my mother, who was always there until the last moment giving me support and unconditional love. Another person who inspired me was my stepfather, with whom I did not get along for many years and now that my mother passed away, it seems that we have come to understand each other better, but I still appreciate everything he did for me not being his actual son. He gave me siblings that I love very much and of whom I am proud of and also helped me to be stronger in life. Life doesn't always give you everything you want, but find a way to make up for it. But let's not forget to mention my artistic inspirations such as Basquiat, Warhol and Haring.

In this phase of my life I find myself in an incredible city that has given me everything, even the bad, but in the same way I am grateful to have found a place like Puerto Vallarta, here I have found a new family, friends and I am happy to be with my partner D̈ieguitö¨ who has put up with me so much, good and bad.All this has given me the necessary confidence to evolve in my artistic work, stay more present than ever and I am very proud of the results. My work has changed, it is bolder and like me, it is less afraid, I think that now I enjoy it more too. I have become fond of the idea of working faster on more structured and well thought out ideas, both as the title of the work and the work itself. I can see it in my work titled Reward, which is a painting of a sock, which I consider the most innovative piece in my collection of work so far. I am also in a happy place because I feel that my style or work is necessary, it is necessary that there is variety and color and I feel happy to be part of many local artists who work every day to achieve our dreams. I feel that I am following a line that identifies a lot with my own persona and my choice in music. I hope to continue maturing my artwork and my persona to more than anything become a man of good.

I invite you to come to Qulture Galleries, to see the work that I have on display and I hope to be able to bring a new collection very soon for all my sponsors and new followers and art critics.