TED Talk Tuesdays spotlight vanilla expert, LGBT leader

Opportunities to learn and connect continue through TED Talk Tuesdays, at The Boutique Dinner Theatre.

May 1: T.J. Hartung is an orchid expert, and author, who will talk to us about
“Vanilla: The Gift from Mexico That Flavors the World.”

T.J.’s interest in plants began when he was a young boy. It blossomed—so to speak—when he began working in the hotel industry. His fascination with orchids peaked after settling in Mexico 24 years ago, when he started collecting, identifying, and researching them.

In his talk, T.J. will:
–expose a lie we were all told in school;
–reveal several interesting uses for vanilla, not related to cooking;
–identify the 12-year-old boy who broke up a monopoly in place for more than 300 years;
–explain why we call them “chili-peppers,” and who first called them that.

T.J. will toss in other interesting facts, as well as some useful household hints.

He has given talks on Mexican orchids to orchid societies in New England, East-central Canada, and the U.K. He has written two books on orchids–one on vanilla, and the other on fragrant orchids–as well articles for “Orchids Magazine,” the official publication of the American Orchid Society.

T.J. serves on the board of directors of the Vallarta Botanical Gardens, and is webmaster for the International Friendship Club of PV. He has adapted and directed several theatrical productions for The Boutique Theatre, including “The Anthology of Comedy,” and “The Rose of Two Scents” by the famous Mexican playwright, Emilio Carballido.

May 15: “Reflections on the Eve of Vallarta Pride 2018: Heading toward year-long tourism, and positive social change,” by William Hevener, Director, ACT LGBT of Puerto Vallarta.

The LGBT market is essential to Puerto Vallarta’s economic growth. A strong LGBT business community is needed to maintain and develop the local market, as well as year-long tourism. For the past five years, Bill has been one of the creators of Vallarta Pride and ACT LGBT AC.

Vallarta Pride secures Puerto Vallarta’s place in the world as an international LGBT destination all year. This year, Vallarta Pride 2018 kicks off on May 20, splashing out seven days of arts and cultural events, concerts, films, and more.

Zona Romantica is home to one of the largest collection of Gay Business in Mexico, if not the world. It enjoys an amazing climate that lasts the whole year. “We have weather here where you can go to the beach 347 days per year. We have amazing food, and the friendliest people. What more to make your dream vacation come true?”

Bill is from Greenwich, Connecticut, and has lived in Puerto Vallarta for 13 years. He is married to Raul Duran, and Raul’s nephew Zuri is in their care.

ABOUT TED TALK TUESDAYS
Every other Tuesday, an “interesting person” living in Puerto Vallarta shares his or her expertise and insights, on a variety of socially relevant topics.

Each talk concludes with an interactive discussion, in which audience members may make comments and ask questions of the speaker. Most presentations will be accompanied by slide illustrations and other media.

Breakfast Burritos, Breakfast Sandwiches, coffees, teas, and other fare will be offered from the Nacho Daddy kitchen and bar, at nominal prices.

Audience-goers are encouraged to remain after the presentations, to cultivate friendships and continue discussions, during a no-host lunch. The Boutique Theater is located upstairs at Nacho Daddy, a popular restaurant, bar and music venue, at 287 Basilio Badillo. Its “Mex-Tex” menu includes such favorites as Tortilla Soup, Steak Nachos, and Chicken Fajitas.

TED tickets cost $250 pesos each. While tickets may be remaining at the door for presentations, some ticket-seekers had to be turned away last year. Advance purchases are recommended, from btpv.org, or at the box office.
For updates, or speaker suggestions, message Catherine Caldera on Facebook, or email [email protected].