Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - There's always so much going on in Puerto Vallarta and around the Republic, it can be difficult to keep up with it all. Here's a look at some of this week's Mexico headlines plus Puerto Vallarta news, community announcements and upcoming events that you won't want to miss.

Plastic Recycling Test-Program Comes to Amapas

Since the Amapas Neighborhood Association (ANA) launched the FREE Plastic Recycling Program test-run in July, many members, buildings and businesses have signed up. But they need more participants so they can accurately estimate the volume, logistics and cost of a full-scale, year-round program. It's not too late to sign up! If you or your building would like to participate, please contact ANA Administrator Viviana Teston at admin(at)amapaspv.com. Separating & recycling plastic bottles and containers takes thought, organization and effort. It's also not free - there's the human time and effort it takes to collect and transport the clean, dry and empty containers to the recycler. Plus the cost of hiring the vehicle... and there's little financial return to offset the cost - it's the kind of thing we do because it's good for the community and the environment. Based on the results of the test-run, ANA will figure the cost and report to those interested in participating for the first year of the program. If enough of us agree to contribute, making the program self-sustaining, we'll move forward together.

Mexico to Open Trade Office in Phoenix, Arizona

Mexico will open a trade and investment office in Phoenix, underscoring growth in cross-border commerce and symbolizing a relaxation of tensions on both sides of the border, The Arizona Republic reports. The new ProMéxico office aims to encourage Mexican exports and attract investment to the country, perennially the largest foreign buyer of Arizona goods and services. Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton said the new office also could boost jobs in Arizona. "This is our largest trading partner," he said of Mexico. Stanton said the new office will promote trade and investment in both directions through seminars, meetings and other events. The announcement comes nearly one year after Arizona, with funding contributed by Phoenix and other local entities, opened a trade office in Mexico City. Phoenix's contribution to that effort "will turn out to be one of the smartest investments we made as a city," said Stanton, adding that he and other Phoenix officials had repeatedly requested that Mexico open an office here. ProMéxico is the Mexican government agency responsible for strengthening the country's participation in the global economy, supporting exports and attracting foreign investment. Phoenix will be the 15th ProMéxico office in the United States, according to the agency's website. ProMéxico also has offices in 33 cities outside Mexico and the U.S.

Banderas Bay Women's Shelter Volunteers Needed

The Banderas Bay Women's Shelter has been blessed with the assistance of psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, lawyers and a nurse who are all volunteering their time and talents to serve the women and children in the shelter. But now they are in search of women interested in assisting as a volunteer with the preparation of one meal per day Monday through Friday, and another woman interested in volunteering her time to teach basic education to primary and secondary age children. Vida Reavivida/Compassion for the Family Inc. is a not for profit charitable organization that is registered with the state Jalisco. For more information about Vida Reavivida A.C. and the Banderas Bay Women's Shelter, please visit CompassionForTheFamilyMx.org, find them on Facebook, or contact David Zude at compassionforthefamily(at)yahoo.com.mx.

Upcoming Events in Puerto Vallarta and Around Banderas Bay
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• CUCosta's 'Battle of the Fourteen Bands'

• DIF FUNd Run for Puerto Vallarta Student Scholarships

• Democrats Abroad September Social at No Way José!