For visitors to Puerto Vallarta who wish to do a good deed for the less privileged in our little paradise, this is a list of some of the many organizations that could benefit from such kind gestures.
Discapacitados de Vallarta, A.C. (DIVAC) - Ivan Applegate is the president of this association of handicapped individuals dedicated to help one another lead productive lives. Contact Ivan Applegate at 225-5368 applecuriel@yahoo.com.mx.
Becas Vallarta, A.C. - provides scholarships for bright High School and University students of limited resources but high scholastic achievement. Donations may be made to Becas Vallarta or for tax deductibility in the United States to the America-Mexico Foundation, Inc. (AMF). We need more volunteers. Contacts: Mary 222-1478, Pat 221 5730, or Mercedes 225 6035. Website: www.puerto-vallarta.com/amf.”
Asociación Down - The Foundation for assistance to Persons with Down’s Syndrome dedicates its work to the rehabilitation of Down’s Syndrome Children for entrance into the regular school system. If you wish to make a donation or volunteer in any way, please contact Ana Catalina Eisenring at 224-9577. Email: down_pv@hotmail.com
Casa Hogar - An established orphanage near the airport run by Catholic nuns. Most of the kids have families who are unable to care for them. Contact Elisa Cornejo at 221-1908.
Clinica de Rehabilitacion Santa Barbara - This clinic for the rehabilitation of the handicapped is used by members of DIVAC not only for physical and psychological therapy but also for education and training to assist the handicapped lead full productive lives. Contact Laura Lopez Portillo Rodriguez at 224-2754.
Cruz Roja (Red Cross) - The Red Cross handles hospital and emergency service. It is the only facility that is authorized to offer assistance to injured people on the street, transport them to their facility or other ones indicated by the injured person injured. Needs are operating funds, equipment, fuel and maintenance for ambulances, supplies and volunteers. Contact: 222-1533, 222-4973
Desarrollo Integral de la Familia (DIF) - A municipal service, part of the Federal System of Family Services that assists not only in time of emergency but also with ongoing education, health and training programs for the whole family. Contact City Hall at 222-0058.
Make a Wish Foundation (MAW) - An organization that grants wishes to children with life-threatening illnesses. 100% of the funds are used for the wishes. Donations that are tax deductible in the U. S. and Mexico. Contact Bob Mandel at 221-6212, web: www.makeawishmexico.org
Eagle’s Wings Foundation - Focuses on providing financial support to organizations and services that benefit children. In the past, this group has assisted the Public Library and the DIF Scholarship Program. Contact: 224-4848.
International Friendship Club (IFC) - Funds many projects such as the Cleft Palate Surgery Program, classroom and school restroom construction, emergency assistance to those with limited resources and donations to the American-Mexican Foundation. Donations are tax deductible in the U. S. and Mexico. Contact Clubhouse at 222-5466, e-mail: ifc@pvmexico.com website: www.pvmexico.com/ifc.
Navy League - The Navy League offers its help in the transportation of donated supplies and equipment from the United States to Puerto Vallarta via the US Navy’s ‘Hand Clasp’ Program. In addition, crew members of American and Canadian Ships donate part of their shore leave to paint and do maintenance on schools, orphanages and rehabilitation centers in Puerto Vallarta. Contact Peter Gray at 221-5285 or Jerry Lafferty at 221-6156.
Organization Vallarta Contra el SIDA (OVCS) - OVCS is an organization dedicated to HIV/AIDS education, testing, prevention and assistance. Their latest program is directed at women of child bearing age who are encouraged to be tested in a free HIV testing program at the Clinic at 533 Hidalgo St.Contact Dr. Manuel Aldana at 224-1225, 222-2414 or Judy Mae at 224-1396.
Refugio Infantil Santa Esperanza - Shelter for children 1 month to 14 yrs. old. Contact Madre Mari at 222-7857, Soledad Martinez at 224-4946 or Sudy Coy at 222-5765. Visiting hours: 11am-1pm & 4pm-6pm. www.refugioinfantil.com
Grupo Ecològico de Puerto Vallarta, A.C. - Programs for adoption of dogs and cats. Volunteers and animal handling equipment requested. Forms (in English and Spanish) for making an ecological complaint to the local authorities. Contact R.C. Walker at 222-0897,
e-mail: rc_walkermx@yahoo.com.mx
Un Mañana Brillante (A Brighter Tomorrow) is a partnership of Americans and Canadians to support Colegio Mexico-Americano, a pre-school and primary school in Puerto Vallarta. The school’s vision is to provide excellence in education at a very low tuition rates. Money is being raised for equipment, facilities, and scholarships. Contact: Margi Baughman. Email: mach1@prodigy.net.mx Or David Bender email: dbender@prodigy.net.mx
sábado, 16 de abril de 2011
Classified Ads
11658
AGENTS WANTED
Yes, we want you as our agent.
The longest established real estate company in Bucerias seeks to recruit ambitious, self-motivated, qualified sale agents. If you are willing to put in the time and effort we will support you in fulfilling your goals.
Tel. 329 298 1212 Send resume to: elena@move2mexico.com
11694
Property Management in Puerto Vallarta & Riviera Nayarit.
• Rental Collection
• Legal Assistence
• Payment of Services
• Maintenance
• Cleaning
Contact: 322 22 6 25 50
daniela@airtouchmexico.com
AIRTOUCHReal Estate
TANGO ARGENTINO
! THE DANCE OF THE HEART !
CLASSES EVERY
MONDAY 8-10 PM
Tango practice/party
every Wednesday 8-10pm
J&B Dancing Club, 2043
Fco. Medina Ascencio
Al & Barbara Garvey 222-8895
alybarbara@yahoo.com
One bedroom, one bath condo in 6 plex in Bucerias. Canadian owned. 2nd floor w/balcony. A/C 5 min. walk to beach. $150,00000 USD Ricardo (329) 298-1235
11694
Casa Oly, located in Las Gaviotas, 3 bedrooms + studio, 3.5 bathrooms, beautiful garden, parking for 4 cars, land: 639 sq mts, $433,000 USD. Phone 22 6 25 50
11694
Condominium Raul, located in Marbella on the main avenue of Puerto Vallarta , 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, A/C, common swimming pool, security, $110,000 USD. phone 2262552
11694
Condominium Shangrila located in marina vallarta , ocean view, fully furnished, 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, jacuzzi, swimming pool, gym, security, tennis court, $850,000 USD. Phone 2262552 Rental Price $3,500 usd per month.
11694
Casa Serafines located in Rincón del Cielo, furnished, 2 bedrooms + studio, 3 bathrooms, equipped kitchen, Laundry room , A/C, Swimming pool, Security, $1,300,000 pesos. Pone 2262552
11640
Beautiful Studio for rent in Amapas
Ocean View, terrace, furnished, A/C, kitchen, washer/dryer, cable , internet Walking distance to beach, 5 min from town.
$7,800.00 pesos per month, contact Eduardo Cel. (045) 5518328344
11611
BEAUTIFUL SPACIOUS NEWLY DECORATED 2 bedroom 1 bath apartments with all amenities. All with gorgeous Ocean View or Mountain views Penthouse 2 bedroom 2 bath upon availability. Long and short term.
From $6,500 pesos monthly sorrentovallartapv@hotmail.com
11694
Casa Alicia located in Fraccionamiento Delfines, Partially furnished, 2 car parking, balcony, rear garden, indoor laundry area, storage, air conditioner in one bedroom and ground level, 3 bedrooms, kitchen with refrigerator, $8000 pesos per month.
Phone 22 625 50
AGENTS WANTED
Yes, we want you as our agent.
The longest established real estate company in Bucerias seeks to recruit ambitious, self-motivated, qualified sale agents. If you are willing to put in the time and effort we will support you in fulfilling your goals.
Tel. 329 298 1212 Send resume to: elena@move2mexico.com
11694
Property Management in Puerto Vallarta & Riviera Nayarit.
• Rental Collection
• Legal Assistence
• Payment of Services
• Maintenance
• Cleaning
Contact: 322 22 6 25 50
daniela@airtouchmexico.com
AIRTOUCHReal Estate
TANGO ARGENTINO
! THE DANCE OF THE HEART !
CLASSES EVERY
MONDAY 8-10 PM
Tango practice/party
every Wednesday 8-10pm
J&B Dancing Club, 2043
Fco. Medina Ascencio
Al & Barbara Garvey 222-8895
alybarbara@yahoo.com
One bedroom, one bath condo in 6 plex in Bucerias. Canadian owned. 2nd floor w/balcony. A/C 5 min. walk to beach. $150,00000 USD Ricardo (329) 298-1235
11694
Casa Oly, located in Las Gaviotas, 3 bedrooms + studio, 3.5 bathrooms, beautiful garden, parking for 4 cars, land: 639 sq mts, $433,000 USD. Phone 22 6 25 50
11694
Condominium Raul, located in Marbella on the main avenue of Puerto Vallarta , 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, A/C, common swimming pool, security, $110,000 USD. phone 2262552
11694
Condominium Shangrila located in marina vallarta , ocean view, fully furnished, 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, jacuzzi, swimming pool, gym, security, tennis court, $850,000 USD. Phone 2262552 Rental Price $3,500 usd per month.
11694
Casa Serafines located in Rincón del Cielo, furnished, 2 bedrooms + studio, 3 bathrooms, equipped kitchen, Laundry room , A/C, Swimming pool, Security, $1,300,000 pesos. Pone 2262552
11640
Beautiful Studio for rent in Amapas
Ocean View, terrace, furnished, A/C, kitchen, washer/dryer, cable , internet Walking distance to beach, 5 min from town.
$7,800.00 pesos per month, contact Eduardo Cel. (045) 5518328344
11611
BEAUTIFUL SPACIOUS NEWLY DECORATED 2 bedroom 1 bath apartments with all amenities. All with gorgeous Ocean View or Mountain views Penthouse 2 bedroom 2 bath upon availability. Long and short term.
From $6,500 pesos monthly sorrentovallartapv@hotmail.com
11694
Casa Alicia located in Fraccionamiento Delfines, Partially furnished, 2 car parking, balcony, rear garden, indoor laundry area, storage, air conditioner in one bedroom and ground level, 3 bedrooms, kitchen with refrigerator, $8000 pesos per month.
Phone 22 625 50
Ask a Realtor...
Q: I have been searching for a place here for a few years. I just found a great option; it has an ocean view, a big kitchen (I love to cook), nice terrace, elevator, second bedroom and allows pets! I would really like to buy it now, but my friend thinks I should wait for the price to go down. What should I do? Kim J. Toronto
A: Great question! After giving this careful consideration, I have come up with a magic formula that will tell you the exact time to buy, right down to the day!
There are clearly some good buying opportunities right now. Last year’s global economic crisis, large inventory of available properties, and security concerns, brought fear and uncertainty in the marketplace. Nobody wanted to be the one who “overpaid” for their home in paradise. My experience is that sale prices here in general have fallen approximately 25 percent.
We are seeing a lot of buyers return to the market, and Canadian buyers are out in force based on the strength of their Dollar.
February and March were very busy months. Fortunately, many sellers are still willing to negotiate in order to make a sale.
There are some factors unique to our area that has helped stabilize prices:
1. The vast majority of sellers do not have a mortgage on their property. Hence, they are not under tremendous pressure to make a mortgage payment. Many owners are retirees, already have their “nest egg” and are not concerned about an imminent job loss.
2. In the last couple of years mortgages have become readily available for new buyers. This increases their buying power and greatly increases the amount of potential home buyers.
3. The “baby boomer” generation is reaching retirement age and even with this current economic downturn, is the wealthiest generation ever.
4. Our area is still seen as an inexpensive haven in comparison to many other world class vacation and retirement destinations.
So that may be a bit of bad news for you now, but it will be good news when you are ready to sell. From your letter, it looks like you have several important criteria that you are looking for in your property.
If you were willing to settle for just any generic condominium, you could probably wait to see what happens, as I do not expect the market to turn around overnight.
However, if the property you are looking for must have several unique features, you should give serious consideration to purchasing if you find just what you are looking for.
I can tell you from experience that, there are active buyers looking in the market right now, (we had a multiple offer scenario last month) and your “dream home” could certainly be purchased by someone else.
Well, enough of this.
Let’s get down to the reason you have read this far, the “magic formula”. It is really quite simple; the exact day you should buy your dream home down here is: the day you decide to quit worrying about what everybody else thinks, (myself included) and invest here with a time horizon of at least the next 5 years!
Anything else will just lead to “analysis paralysis” and frankly, you are just better off renting.
The time to buy is when YOU decide the time is right.
So make your decision, and when the time is right, go out there and make the best deal you possibly can, quit stressing out about it, and enjoy your new home in the sun!
Do you have a question about Real Estate in Puerto Vallarta?
Just ask!
Active in local and national Real Estate boards; published author and acknowledged expert on Puerto Vallarta Real Estate, Michael Green moved here in 1997 to take advantage of the unsurpassed lifestyle PV offers. Mike can be reached at: pvgetaways@hotmail.com
A: Great question! After giving this careful consideration, I have come up with a magic formula that will tell you the exact time to buy, right down to the day!
There are clearly some good buying opportunities right now. Last year’s global economic crisis, large inventory of available properties, and security concerns, brought fear and uncertainty in the marketplace. Nobody wanted to be the one who “overpaid” for their home in paradise. My experience is that sale prices here in general have fallen approximately 25 percent.
We are seeing a lot of buyers return to the market, and Canadian buyers are out in force based on the strength of their Dollar.
February and March were very busy months. Fortunately, many sellers are still willing to negotiate in order to make a sale.
There are some factors unique to our area that has helped stabilize prices:
1. The vast majority of sellers do not have a mortgage on their property. Hence, they are not under tremendous pressure to make a mortgage payment. Many owners are retirees, already have their “nest egg” and are not concerned about an imminent job loss.
2. In the last couple of years mortgages have become readily available for new buyers. This increases their buying power and greatly increases the amount of potential home buyers.
3. The “baby boomer” generation is reaching retirement age and even with this current economic downturn, is the wealthiest generation ever.
4. Our area is still seen as an inexpensive haven in comparison to many other world class vacation and retirement destinations.
So that may be a bit of bad news for you now, but it will be good news when you are ready to sell. From your letter, it looks like you have several important criteria that you are looking for in your property.
If you were willing to settle for just any generic condominium, you could probably wait to see what happens, as I do not expect the market to turn around overnight.
However, if the property you are looking for must have several unique features, you should give serious consideration to purchasing if you find just what you are looking for.
I can tell you from experience that, there are active buyers looking in the market right now, (we had a multiple offer scenario last month) and your “dream home” could certainly be purchased by someone else.
Well, enough of this.
Let’s get down to the reason you have read this far, the “magic formula”. It is really quite simple; the exact day you should buy your dream home down here is: the day you decide to quit worrying about what everybody else thinks, (myself included) and invest here with a time horizon of at least the next 5 years!
Anything else will just lead to “analysis paralysis” and frankly, you are just better off renting.
The time to buy is when YOU decide the time is right.
So make your decision, and when the time is right, go out there and make the best deal you possibly can, quit stressing out about it, and enjoy your new home in the sun!
Do you have a question about Real Estate in Puerto Vallarta?
Just ask!
Active in local and national Real Estate boards; published author and acknowledged expert on Puerto Vallarta Real Estate, Michael Green moved here in 1997 to take advantage of the unsurpassed lifestyle PV offers. Mike can be reached at: pvgetaways@hotmail.com
Ask the Mortage Experts...
With mortgages becoming more of the norm in Mexico and with ever-increasing loan options, The Tribune is helping sort through the confusion by having your personal Financing/Mortgage questions answered by our local experts – David Schwendeman and Terence Reilly, Founder’s of MEXLend, an industry-leading Mortgage Broker based in Vallarta. We invite you to e-mail your questions regarding buying or financing Real Estate in Mexico to buyinginmexico@hotmail.com.
Q: What is a Good Faith Estimate and what should be included? Patty M, Los Angeles, CA
A: All reputable mortgage brokers should be willing to give their clients a Good Faith Estimate or GFE outlining the costs associated with financing a real estate transaction. In the US, Truth In Lending Laws mandate a GFE be presented to and signed by a borrower seeking financing. Most banks lending in Mexico also require their approved brokers to follow these guidelines and supply clients with GFE’s.
Good Faith Estimates on cross border loans should provide an itemized list of all expenses pertinent to BOTH the Real Estate PURCHASE and THE LOAN. This is important to emphasize because closing costs, in general, are higher in Mexico than what most borrowers are accustomed to in the US and Canada. Historically, local custom has dictated the majority of the closing costs fall on the buyer. The consolation being that when and if you sell your property you then pass these costs on to your buyer.
If your Realtor or Developer gives you an estimate of costs prior to your getting loan approval – your Mortgage Broker’s estimate will reflect those costs PLUS the additional costs associated with obtaining a loan.
Costs for the property side of the transaction will include the cost of the Notario, the cost of obtaining an SRE permit, property transfer and acquisition taxes, trust application fees, first year trust fees, tax appraisal fees and all registration fees. These fees are largely non-negotiable (read: fixed) and formulas for determining their totals are issued on a Mexican federal and state level. They can vary widely between the Mexican States. For example, closing costs in Nayarit, Vallarta’s neighbor to the north, are different than closing costs here in Jalisco. Costs included in the Good Faith Estimate associated with the loan will be broker fees, bank fees, processing fees, commercial valuation fees, appraisal fees, interim interest, title insurance - if applicable and insurance premiums. These will vary from broker to broker and from bank to bank.
What many borrowers do not realize is that there are currently as many as 15 different Banks Lending in Mexico and more entering the market as I write this column. Some are Mexican entities and others are based in either the US or Canada acting in partnership with Mexican Banks.
Each of these Lenders has distinctly different loan programs and fees can vary considerably.
However, generally speaking, banks with higher closing costs typically offer lower interest rates and those with lower closing costs offer higher interest rates. In addition, borrowers with excellent credit and easily documented income will usually see better terms over all - than those who don’t, won’t. These aspects of the Mortgage Industry in Mexico closely mirror those of the US or Canada.
Most importantly, remember that a GFE is an ESTIMATE given in good faith. Your mortgage broker should come within a reasonable margin of the actual, final costs. However, it is not an exact science and there are unforeseen variables which can change the numbers as you approach your closing; such as currency fluctuations, changes in tax laws which occur PRIOR to funding but AFTER loan approval and depending on the final, appraised value of the property. MEXLend, Inc. is a Mexican mortgage brokerage that currently represents 8 different lenders offering 75 different loan options in Dollars, Pesos and Euros for buyers looking to purchase vacation or investment property throughout Mexico – including products specifically for Canadian citizens. In announced results based upon post-closing client interviews conducted by Mexico’s largest US lender, MEXLend won the #1 mark of distinction for both client satisfaction and fastest closings for the second straight cycle. MEXLend can be reached at 322-132-7991 (in Vallarta), 917-779-9061 (while in the US or Canada), toll–free in Mexico by calling 1-800-3-Mi-Casa or go online at www.mexlend.com (For US and Euro loans) or www.mexlend.com.mx for Peso loans.
Q: What is a Good Faith Estimate and what should be included? Patty M, Los Angeles, CA
A: All reputable mortgage brokers should be willing to give their clients a Good Faith Estimate or GFE outlining the costs associated with financing a real estate transaction. In the US, Truth In Lending Laws mandate a GFE be presented to and signed by a borrower seeking financing. Most banks lending in Mexico also require their approved brokers to follow these guidelines and supply clients with GFE’s.
Good Faith Estimates on cross border loans should provide an itemized list of all expenses pertinent to BOTH the Real Estate PURCHASE and THE LOAN. This is important to emphasize because closing costs, in general, are higher in Mexico than what most borrowers are accustomed to in the US and Canada. Historically, local custom has dictated the majority of the closing costs fall on the buyer. The consolation being that when and if you sell your property you then pass these costs on to your buyer.
If your Realtor or Developer gives you an estimate of costs prior to your getting loan approval – your Mortgage Broker’s estimate will reflect those costs PLUS the additional costs associated with obtaining a loan.
Costs for the property side of the transaction will include the cost of the Notario, the cost of obtaining an SRE permit, property transfer and acquisition taxes, trust application fees, first year trust fees, tax appraisal fees and all registration fees. These fees are largely non-negotiable (read: fixed) and formulas for determining their totals are issued on a Mexican federal and state level. They can vary widely between the Mexican States. For example, closing costs in Nayarit, Vallarta’s neighbor to the north, are different than closing costs here in Jalisco. Costs included in the Good Faith Estimate associated with the loan will be broker fees, bank fees, processing fees, commercial valuation fees, appraisal fees, interim interest, title insurance - if applicable and insurance premiums. These will vary from broker to broker and from bank to bank.
What many borrowers do not realize is that there are currently as many as 15 different Banks Lending in Mexico and more entering the market as I write this column. Some are Mexican entities and others are based in either the US or Canada acting in partnership with Mexican Banks.
Each of these Lenders has distinctly different loan programs and fees can vary considerably.
However, generally speaking, banks with higher closing costs typically offer lower interest rates and those with lower closing costs offer higher interest rates. In addition, borrowers with excellent credit and easily documented income will usually see better terms over all - than those who don’t, won’t. These aspects of the Mortgage Industry in Mexico closely mirror those of the US or Canada.
Most importantly, remember that a GFE is an ESTIMATE given in good faith. Your mortgage broker should come within a reasonable margin of the actual, final costs. However, it is not an exact science and there are unforeseen variables which can change the numbers as you approach your closing; such as currency fluctuations, changes in tax laws which occur PRIOR to funding but AFTER loan approval and depending on the final, appraised value of the property. MEXLend, Inc. is a Mexican mortgage brokerage that currently represents 8 different lenders offering 75 different loan options in Dollars, Pesos and Euros for buyers looking to purchase vacation or investment property throughout Mexico – including products specifically for Canadian citizens. In announced results based upon post-closing client interviews conducted by Mexico’s largest US lender, MEXLend won the #1 mark of distinction for both client satisfaction and fastest closings for the second straight cycle. MEXLend can be reached at 322-132-7991 (in Vallarta), 917-779-9061 (while in the US or Canada), toll–free in Mexico by calling 1-800-3-Mi-Casa or go online at www.mexlend.com (For US and Euro loans) or www.mexlend.com.mx for Peso loans.
Facts about the Pharmaceutical Industry
by Krystal Frost
I found this on the internet and have strong feelings about this whole situation around the pharmaceutical industry and how it has affected world wide health care systems. Take a look at some recently published facts… Big drug companies have been accused of putting profits above patients, spinning false PR campaigns and more. Here are some of the most shocking facts about the pharmaceutical industry. The price of drugs is increasing faster than anything else a patient pays for: The prices of the most heavily prescribed drugs are routinely jacked up, sometimes several times a year. Some medications have a mark-up of 1,000 percent over the cost of their ingredients. Your doctor may have an ulterior motive behind your prescription: Drug reps often give gifts to convince doctors to prescribe the medications that they represent. These drug reps usually have no medical or science education.
Pharmaceutical companies spend more on marketing than research: Almost twice as much!
Guilty of Medicare fraud: Pharmaceutical companies are being tried in federal courts as a result of their exploitation of Medicare. AstraZeneca had to pay more than $340 million in penalties for coaching doctors to cheat Medicare.
The combined wealth of the top 5 pharmaceutical companies outweighs GNP of sub-Saharan Africa: In fact, the combined worth of the world’s top five drug companies is twice the combined GNP of that entire region.
Americans pay more for prescription meds than anyone else in the world: $200 billion in 2002 alone. That’s why our friends and families load up on prescriptions drugs when in Mexico. I paid 70% less for my moms skin cream here in P.V.
“New” Drugs aren’t really new: Two-thirds of “new” prescription drugs are identical to existing drugs or modified versions of them.
Drug companies are taking advantage of underdeveloped countries to perform clinical trials: In developing countries, government oversight is more lax. Another shocking fact that few consider is that virtually every major pharmaceutical company has a corresponding branch that creates the toxins and poisons that contribute to the chronic diseases their drugs and medical devices treat. So these huge transnational companies profit not only from the sale of products such as pesticides, herbicides and GM crops, but also from the symptoms and chronic illnesses that they can trigger.
The vast majority of chemicals found in pesticides and other products undergo little or no testing for chronic, low level exposures and for chronic health effects, effectively creating a circle of destruction and double profits. Scary stuff… The drug companies are incredibly powerful, and overcoming their influence over your life will take a mammoth effort-
Having said that..
There are concrete steps you can take to combat the drug companies’ self-interest, save yourself loads of money, and improve your health so you can avoid unnecessary drugs in the first place.
Take charge of your own health now instead of handing it over to the drug companies.
How do you do that?
You can start by using the Internet to locate non-drug alternatives to your health challenges. Many start with my site as it has more than 150,000 pages to help you understand more about how you can improve your health without drugs or surgery, through simple lifestyle modifications.
These are the basic steps to maintain optimal health that have always remained permanent truths, regardless of what marvels modern science come up with next:
1. Eat a healthy diet that’s right for you(paying very careful attention to keeping your insulin levels down)
2. Drink plenty of clean water
3. Manage your stress
4. Exercise
5. Get plenty of appropriate sun exposure
6. Limit toxin exposure consume organic veggies and hormone free meats
7. Consume healthy fat
8. Eat plenty of raw food
9. Optimize insulin and leptin levels
10. Get plenty of sleep
11. Don’t keep up on the news. Ignorance is bliss
I found this on the internet and have strong feelings about this whole situation around the pharmaceutical industry and how it has affected world wide health care systems. Take a look at some recently published facts… Big drug companies have been accused of putting profits above patients, spinning false PR campaigns and more. Here are some of the most shocking facts about the pharmaceutical industry. The price of drugs is increasing faster than anything else a patient pays for: The prices of the most heavily prescribed drugs are routinely jacked up, sometimes several times a year. Some medications have a mark-up of 1,000 percent over the cost of their ingredients. Your doctor may have an ulterior motive behind your prescription: Drug reps often give gifts to convince doctors to prescribe the medications that they represent. These drug reps usually have no medical or science education.
Pharmaceutical companies spend more on marketing than research: Almost twice as much!
Guilty of Medicare fraud: Pharmaceutical companies are being tried in federal courts as a result of their exploitation of Medicare. AstraZeneca had to pay more than $340 million in penalties for coaching doctors to cheat Medicare.
The combined wealth of the top 5 pharmaceutical companies outweighs GNP of sub-Saharan Africa: In fact, the combined worth of the world’s top five drug companies is twice the combined GNP of that entire region.
Americans pay more for prescription meds than anyone else in the world: $200 billion in 2002 alone. That’s why our friends and families load up on prescriptions drugs when in Mexico. I paid 70% less for my moms skin cream here in P.V.
“New” Drugs aren’t really new: Two-thirds of “new” prescription drugs are identical to existing drugs or modified versions of them.
Drug companies are taking advantage of underdeveloped countries to perform clinical trials: In developing countries, government oversight is more lax. Another shocking fact that few consider is that virtually every major pharmaceutical company has a corresponding branch that creates the toxins and poisons that contribute to the chronic diseases their drugs and medical devices treat. So these huge transnational companies profit not only from the sale of products such as pesticides, herbicides and GM crops, but also from the symptoms and chronic illnesses that they can trigger.
The vast majority of chemicals found in pesticides and other products undergo little or no testing for chronic, low level exposures and for chronic health effects, effectively creating a circle of destruction and double profits. Scary stuff… The drug companies are incredibly powerful, and overcoming their influence over your life will take a mammoth effort-
Having said that..
There are concrete steps you can take to combat the drug companies’ self-interest, save yourself loads of money, and improve your health so you can avoid unnecessary drugs in the first place.
Take charge of your own health now instead of handing it over to the drug companies.
How do you do that?
You can start by using the Internet to locate non-drug alternatives to your health challenges. Many start with my site as it has more than 150,000 pages to help you understand more about how you can improve your health without drugs or surgery, through simple lifestyle modifications.
These are the basic steps to maintain optimal health that have always remained permanent truths, regardless of what marvels modern science come up with next:
1. Eat a healthy diet that’s right for you(paying very careful attention to keeping your insulin levels down)
2. Drink plenty of clean water
3. Manage your stress
4. Exercise
5. Get plenty of appropriate sun exposure
6. Limit toxin exposure consume organic veggies and hormone free meats
7. Consume healthy fat
8. Eat plenty of raw food
9. Optimize insulin and leptin levels
10. Get plenty of sleep
11. Don’t keep up on the news. Ignorance is bliss
HOT Salsa Dancing for Fitness
Has your fitness routine become boring and predictable? How about trying something different than the conventional aerobic exercises such as running or step classes and taking up something fun and social like salsa dancing. The cool thing is you sweat as much doing salsa as you would climbing a stair climber, but you get to wear something sexier than sneakers to participate in it.
As a woman, I get excited about getting all dolled up and wearing high heels to go salsa dancing. It’s part of the art, part of the ambience, part of the excitement.
Men generally take a bit more effort to look debonair as well. Who doesn’t want to go out and look and feel sexy? Most of us do and who knew that it also counts as a great workout even if it involves a possible mojito and rhythmic, sensual, upbeat music with lots of friends.
Salsa music first appeared in New York City in the 60’s as a rhythmic fusion of Cuban Son with Guaracha, Montuno and Guaguanc. It also has a strong American jazz influence and Plena and Bomba from Puerto Rico creating a unique urban sound that just penetrates through your veins and makes you want to move and shake it. Oh yeah! I always look forward to my salsa workouts.
Salsa’s popularity began to heat up in the early 70’s in Latin neighborhoods and soon spread into New York’s ballrooms and dance halls. Although it’s become standardized for dancers who wish to enter professional competitions, most people dance to it in a spontaneous and highly energetic way true to its original form. The lively and variant musical style allows for alternating very slow and very furious dance movements.
The sudden bursts of frenzied dancing can help to improve the anaerobic fitness essential to other sports such as basketball, sprinting and swimming. I find that I’m able to engage in other activities with ease due to the aerobic and agility gains that I’ve made from salsa dancing, stretching and some light strength training. Elasticity from dancing will help your overall range of motion, power and coordination.
Salsa dancing merges aerobic and anaerobic training, working your leg strength and endurance. Dancing in general is a great way to build the perfect body shape- well; I can aspire to it, right? The continual movements and use of your whole body build up aerobic endurance while steadily burning calories over the course of the evening. This helps to strengthen and tone your legs at the same time you are shedding pounds—salsa is fantastic for this. And although I may not have the perfect body, my legs often receive great compliments.
According to experts, dancing salsa can burn up to 10 calories a minute, without the potential cause of injury and jarring of the knees that high impact exercises such as running can cause. You can learn salsa with or without a partner, at home or in a dance studio or club and integrate it into your fitness program. As you learn and engage in more salsa activity to get fit, you’ll not only look and feel great, you’ll end up having a blast and forming a whole new facet to your social life. Life is too short to waste on boring, traditional aerobics and group classes. Ladies, put some sexy heels on and learn how to dance HOT salsa to look and feel great!
As a woman, I get excited about getting all dolled up and wearing high heels to go salsa dancing. It’s part of the art, part of the ambience, part of the excitement.
Men generally take a bit more effort to look debonair as well. Who doesn’t want to go out and look and feel sexy? Most of us do and who knew that it also counts as a great workout even if it involves a possible mojito and rhythmic, sensual, upbeat music with lots of friends.
Salsa music first appeared in New York City in the 60’s as a rhythmic fusion of Cuban Son with Guaracha, Montuno and Guaguanc. It also has a strong American jazz influence and Plena and Bomba from Puerto Rico creating a unique urban sound that just penetrates through your veins and makes you want to move and shake it. Oh yeah! I always look forward to my salsa workouts.
Salsa’s popularity began to heat up in the early 70’s in Latin neighborhoods and soon spread into New York’s ballrooms and dance halls. Although it’s become standardized for dancers who wish to enter professional competitions, most people dance to it in a spontaneous and highly energetic way true to its original form. The lively and variant musical style allows for alternating very slow and very furious dance movements.
The sudden bursts of frenzied dancing can help to improve the anaerobic fitness essential to other sports such as basketball, sprinting and swimming. I find that I’m able to engage in other activities with ease due to the aerobic and agility gains that I’ve made from salsa dancing, stretching and some light strength training. Elasticity from dancing will help your overall range of motion, power and coordination.
Salsa dancing merges aerobic and anaerobic training, working your leg strength and endurance. Dancing in general is a great way to build the perfect body shape- well; I can aspire to it, right? The continual movements and use of your whole body build up aerobic endurance while steadily burning calories over the course of the evening. This helps to strengthen and tone your legs at the same time you are shedding pounds—salsa is fantastic for this. And although I may not have the perfect body, my legs often receive great compliments.
According to experts, dancing salsa can burn up to 10 calories a minute, without the potential cause of injury and jarring of the knees that high impact exercises such as running can cause. You can learn salsa with or without a partner, at home or in a dance studio or club and integrate it into your fitness program. As you learn and engage in more salsa activity to get fit, you’ll not only look and feel great, you’ll end up having a blast and forming a whole new facet to your social life. Life is too short to waste on boring, traditional aerobics and group classes. Ladies, put some sexy heels on and learn how to dance HOT salsa to look and feel great!
“PV Loves Kids: A Parent’s Guide to Fun-Filled Days”
It is day three of your vacation and your family has exhausted the resort’s activities. The sun has given them a tan, their fingertips look like raisins, the menu has been memorized, and you are tempted to add a second vacation to recover from this one.
Need some creative ways to continue the fun and dare I say, make it educational and enriching?
Just climb aboard a bus headed in any direction and you will find a city that wants to share its rich culture, history and traditions with you. Below are some fun-filled ways to get involved.
Art & Entertainment
PV has it all from city tours to Mexican fiestas, from pirate ships to art walks. While you’re enjoying these, talk with your child about the sights and sounds he experiences.
Suggestions
• Buy a sketch book and art supplies from a local vendor, Wal-Mart or Office Depot. Ask your child if she can duplicate the certain things on your tour.
• Keep a daily journal of your travels or a Family Blog. Reward those who are faithful with entries.
• Find out about the Huichol culture and purchase an art piece to take home.
• Join the community by dancing in the Presidencia Square on Sunday evenings at 7 pm.
• Read about the Maya civilization (Vallarta Tribune, March 20-26, 2011, Issue 728).
• Learn Spanish or take a Mexican cooking class (www.mymexicankitchen.com).
• Plan a Photographic Scavenger Hunt using this starter list:
Mexican Flag
Iguana
Number written in Spanish
Musician
Someone bicycling
Soccer ball
Banderas Bay map
Whale
New friends
Sierra Madre Mountain Range
Community Involvement
Kids love kids and making friends here is very easy.
Suggestions
• Invite new friends to share a meal.
• Volunteer or donate supplies for local charities such as P.E.A.C.E. (www.peacemexico.org) and Families of Esperanza (www.familiesatthedump.org).
• Help a child with homework and reading (www.puertovallartaorphanage.org).
• Take photographs and write about your experiences on your family blog.
• Start a discussion about thankfulness and how you can get involved in your community.
• Read children’s books in Spanish and English at the local library (Biblioteca Los Mangos near Costco).
Nature and Animals
Celebrate Earth Day (April 22) everyday by helping us to take care of our environment. Look for ways to recycle, reuse and dispose of trash responsibly.
Suggestions
• Make a photographic journal as you hike, fish or horseback ride.
• Visit the Botanical Gardens (12 miles south of PV on Hwy. 200).
• Have a “Trash Contest” by seeing who can pick up the most items.
• Purchase souvenirs that have been made from recycled products.
• Walk or ride a bike to your destination.
• Limit the amount of water you use and turn off lights.
• Take pictures of the unique plants and wildlife.
• Join the “Adopt an Animal” program at the Vallarta Zoo (zoologicodevallarta.com).
• Volunteer or donate to groups such as Grupo Ecologico de Puerto Vallarta A.C.
• Help a community group clean the beach or assist animals (www.peacemexico.org).
• Count how many constellations you can see on a clear night.
Bay of Banderas
The water-related activities here are vast. Take time to go boating, kayaking, parasailing, scuba diving or snorkeling. While you’re at it, sneak in some fun facts.
Trivia
• What does “Bahia de Banderas” mean? (Bay of Flags)
• What is the largest ray in the bay that is harmless to people? (Giant Manta Ray)
• What ray has a whip-like tail and a poisonous spine? (Spotted Eagle Ray and don’t worry, it likes to dine on crustaceans and mollusks at the bottom of the ocean.)
• What creature has 6 arms, 2 legs and can grow up to 3 feet (.91 m) long? (Octopus)
• What type of dolphins visit our bay? (Bottlenose)
• What months can you see the dolphins? (April-December)
• Which whales come here to give birth and nurse their calves? (Humpback Whales)
• When can you see the whales here? (December-March)
• What creature has a sharp hook on the tip of its beak? (Hawksbill Turtle)
(Information taken from www.marinamismaloya.com.)
Sporty/Adventure
It’s true; we have our fair share of Canopy tours, ATVs, and jungle adventures that expose you to another side of Mexico. While you’re out for the day, try some of these ideas.
Suggestions
• Take a picture of your family with new friends.
• Make photo journal of unique birds and insects.
• Go for a swim in the fresh mountain water pools.
Enjoy this time with your family learning about the Mexican people and customs. The impression will last a lifetime and who knows, you may have enough material for the next “What I Did on My Mexican Vacation” school report.
Need some creative ways to continue the fun and dare I say, make it educational and enriching?
Just climb aboard a bus headed in any direction and you will find a city that wants to share its rich culture, history and traditions with you. Below are some fun-filled ways to get involved.
Art & Entertainment
PV has it all from city tours to Mexican fiestas, from pirate ships to art walks. While you’re enjoying these, talk with your child about the sights and sounds he experiences.
Suggestions
• Buy a sketch book and art supplies from a local vendor, Wal-Mart or Office Depot. Ask your child if she can duplicate the certain things on your tour.
• Keep a daily journal of your travels or a Family Blog. Reward those who are faithful with entries.
• Find out about the Huichol culture and purchase an art piece to take home.
• Join the community by dancing in the Presidencia Square on Sunday evenings at 7 pm.
• Read about the Maya civilization (Vallarta Tribune, March 20-26, 2011, Issue 728).
• Learn Spanish or take a Mexican cooking class (www.mymexicankitchen.com).
• Plan a Photographic Scavenger Hunt using this starter list:
Mexican Flag
Iguana
Number written in Spanish
Musician
Someone bicycling
Soccer ball
Banderas Bay map
Whale
New friends
Sierra Madre Mountain Range
Community Involvement
Kids love kids and making friends here is very easy.
Suggestions
• Invite new friends to share a meal.
• Volunteer or donate supplies for local charities such as P.E.A.C.E. (www.peacemexico.org) and Families of Esperanza (www.familiesatthedump.org).
• Help a child with homework and reading (www.puertovallartaorphanage.org).
• Take photographs and write about your experiences on your family blog.
• Start a discussion about thankfulness and how you can get involved in your community.
• Read children’s books in Spanish and English at the local library (Biblioteca Los Mangos near Costco).
Nature and Animals
Celebrate Earth Day (April 22) everyday by helping us to take care of our environment. Look for ways to recycle, reuse and dispose of trash responsibly.
Suggestions
• Make a photographic journal as you hike, fish or horseback ride.
• Visit the Botanical Gardens (12 miles south of PV on Hwy. 200).
• Have a “Trash Contest” by seeing who can pick up the most items.
• Purchase souvenirs that have been made from recycled products.
• Walk or ride a bike to your destination.
• Limit the amount of water you use and turn off lights.
• Take pictures of the unique plants and wildlife.
• Join the “Adopt an Animal” program at the Vallarta Zoo (zoologicodevallarta.com).
• Volunteer or donate to groups such as Grupo Ecologico de Puerto Vallarta A.C.
• Help a community group clean the beach or assist animals (www.peacemexico.org).
• Count how many constellations you can see on a clear night.
Bay of Banderas
The water-related activities here are vast. Take time to go boating, kayaking, parasailing, scuba diving or snorkeling. While you’re at it, sneak in some fun facts.
Trivia
• What does “Bahia de Banderas” mean? (Bay of Flags)
• What is the largest ray in the bay that is harmless to people? (Giant Manta Ray)
• What ray has a whip-like tail and a poisonous spine? (Spotted Eagle Ray and don’t worry, it likes to dine on crustaceans and mollusks at the bottom of the ocean.)
• What creature has 6 arms, 2 legs and can grow up to 3 feet (.91 m) long? (Octopus)
• What type of dolphins visit our bay? (Bottlenose)
• What months can you see the dolphins? (April-December)
• Which whales come here to give birth and nurse their calves? (Humpback Whales)
• When can you see the whales here? (December-March)
• What creature has a sharp hook on the tip of its beak? (Hawksbill Turtle)
(Information taken from www.marinamismaloya.com.)
Sporty/Adventure
It’s true; we have our fair share of Canopy tours, ATVs, and jungle adventures that expose you to another side of Mexico. While you’re out for the day, try some of these ideas.
Suggestions
• Take a picture of your family with new friends.
• Make photo journal of unique birds and insects.
• Go for a swim in the fresh mountain water pools.
Enjoy this time with your family learning about the Mexican people and customs. The impression will last a lifetime and who knows, you may have enough material for the next “What I Did on My Mexican Vacation” school report.
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