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

Banderas Bay Women's Shelter Needs Your Help

The Banderas Bay Women's Shelter is now filling up quickly. There are currently 13 people in the shelter and 6 more coming tomorrow. The weekly grocery bill is increasing rapidly. We are receiving a monthly donation of some food staples from the John Ozzello Memorial Food Bank, but unfortunately the major grocery stores such as Sam's Club, Walmart, Costco and Mega Commercial have decided not to assist us. Likewise there is no assistance from the Mexican government. Please consider assisting us in this great need. Donations can be made through our website, CompassionForTheFamilyMx.org, or by sending a check to: Compassion for the Family, 115 13th Street SE, Altoona, IA 50009. If you live in the Puerto Vallarta area, and prefer to donate food we will be glad to pick up your donation. For more information on food donations, please email David Zude at compassionforthefamily(at)yahoo.com.mx.

A Chocoholic's Dream Weekend at Vallarta Botanical Gardens

Experience the splendor of Puerto Vallarta's rainforest in its divine abundance while enjoying a chocoholic's dream weekend at Vallarta Botanical Gardens. On October 17 and 18, from 12 noon to 5:30 pm, you can engage your minds, imaginations and taste buds at the Garden's Cacao and Chocolate Festival. The cacao bean, the basis of cocoa and chocolate, is one of Mexico’s many culinary gifts to the world. Cacao beans come from the cacao tree known by its scientific name as Theobroma Cacao which literally means "food of the gods," has been cultivated by many cultures for at least three millenia in Mesoamerica, including the Maya and Aztec. For this special weekend, the Gardens will feature interesting exhibitions, lectures and guided tours showcasing one of Mexico's most treasured gifts to the world. Event entry is included in the regular garden admission price (adolescents and adults 80 pesos, children 20 pesos.) For more information and a schedule of events, please visit vbgardens.org.

G6 Announces Second Estudio 6 Hotel in Puerto Vallarta

G6 Hospitality continues its expansion plans in Latin America, as the company announced the development of its second Estudio 6 property in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. "Filled with historical and colonial charm, combined with beautiful beaches and countless sites to see, Puerto Vallarta is one of the most sought after destinations in the country," said Jim Amorosia, President and Chief Executive Officer of G6 Hospitality. "Our Estudio 6 location will introduce a new standard of value for travelers looking for affordable, extended-stay lodging in the area." Once completed, the Estudio 6 in Puerto Vallarta will offer suite-type rooms with fully equipped kitchenettes, microwave, stove top, coffee maker and refrigerator, expanded work areas, HDTVs with premium channels, free Wi-Fi, laundry, and on-site parking. These services combined with a strong brand promise of clean, comfortable rooms and great service at affordable prices makes it the perfect option for extended stay travelers. The projected opening date for the Estudio 6 Puerto Vallarta is the second quarter of 2016.

Daiquiri Dick's Ready for Vallarta's 'High Season'

After a brief vacation spent 'spiffing up' the restaurant and giving the chefs a chance to do some experimenting with possible new menu items and specials, Daiquiri Dick's is open and ready for another great season. Fusing fine dining, a relaxed atmosphere, and attentive service to create an exceptional experience, this Puerto Vallarta restaurant has been a landmark on Los Muertos Beach for over 30 years. And, for the 2015/2016 Fall/Winter season, the staff has a lot of new and wonderful things planned, including live music, floor shows, charity events and, of course, fantastic food. Open daily from 9 am to 11 pm, (Closed on Tuesdays through the end of October,) Daiquiri Dick's offers elegant dining in a relaxed atmosphere for breakfast, lunch or dinner. For more information, visit DDPV.com.

Upcoming Events in Puerto Vallarta and Around Banderas Bay
Click on titles for more information

• What's Happening this Weekend in Riviera Nayarit

• Ayotzinapa Expo at Oficina de Proyectos Culturales

• FIVB Beach Volleyball World Tour Coming to Vallarta