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 headlines, a few community announcements and a couple of weekend events that you won't want to miss.

Volunteers Needed to Help PV Police Learn English

During the Amapas Neighborhood Association's meetings with the police about the VEA (Vecinos En Alerta) program, which is a sort of Neighborhood Watch on steroids, the police identified a need: they would like to learn more English. So Amapas Neighborhood Association is organizing twice a week one hour English classes for members of the Puerto Vallarta police department. A teacher will be leading the class, but they are looking for volunteers that have a couple of hours a week in the mornings, to assist the teacher. It can be a great opportunity to practice your Spanish and help the community. for more info or to sign up for the program please contact Viviana Testón on her cell at 322-244-0185 or via email at admin(at)amapaspv.com.

A Record Turnout Enjoyed the 5th Annual Charity Chili Cook-Off

The American Legion and Nacho Daddy won bragging rights by sharing the top prizes at the 5th Annual Charity Chili Cook-Off at beautiful El Rio BBQ. The Legion Post 14, sponsors of the fund-raising event, placed first in the Popular Vote, while Nacho Daddy won in the Professional Judges category. D'Z Route 66 and Escondido Sports Bar took 2nd and 3rd place in both categories. A record turnout of chili and music lovers enjoyed recipes by 18 local restaurants and chefs, along with non-stop musical entertainment by Mikki Prost, The Bones, Dave Whitty, and the Texas Embassy Blues Band, featuring vocalist Sean Moore. Proceeds from the event, distributed through the Punta de Mita Foundation, benefitted the following local charities: The Banderas Bay Women's Shelter; DIF New Life Home for at-risk boys; and Torpedos American Football, building character and discipline for boys; and Vista Hermosa playground. Total taken in 125,000 Pesos. In addition, PV Cupcakes donated 3800 pesos from the event to charities. Thanks also go out to the Puerto Vallarta Municipality, DIF, and Transito for assistance on highway banners announcing the cook-off.

New Talent, Familiar Favorites Take The Boutique Stage

Barbara J. Harris has loved live theater since the age of 8, when her dad converted their back deck into a stage. The Boutique Theatre is proud to host the Mexican directorial debut of Harris, who was active for decades in community and professional theater throughout Canada. She has experience acting, directing, working on props, sets and make-up, and as an executive director. The comedic drama she chose to direct here is "Over the River and Through The Woods," showing March 30 through April 8. "Bringing a full production to life as a director has become my passion," she said. 'Since moving to Mexico six years ago, this is my first play." She said "Over the River" is "a wonderful family story. It will make you laugh out loud, bring a tear to your eye, and flood you with fond family memories." Mikki Prost, the tribute artist who creates her own shows, delivers her popular evenings about country legend Patsy Cline. "Crazy for Patsy" performs Wednesday, April 5. Note: Wednesday shows start at the special time of 7:30 pm, with the dinner, optional, served at 6:30 pm. Mikki Prost does her own research, compilation, costuming, and narrating for her shows, and is beloved for her professionalism and the special rapport she creates with her audiences. She delights in making herself available afterward to talk with fans, and pose for photographs with them. The last Wednesday of each month, PV's popular five-player band, Time 2 Play, takes the stage with Open Mic Night. The last Open Mic session of the season is March 29. Admission is just 50 pesos.

Weekend Events in Puerto Vallarta and Around Banderas Bay
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• South Side Shuffle Offers Fun and Friendly Shopping

• San Pancho Circo de Los Niños' Fundraising Performances

• Last Chance to See Elviz Martinez in 'Legends of Mexico' at Act II