Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico - Are you confused about Mexico? Do you have questions about the country, its people or customs? You don't need to learn Spanish to Connect with Mexico, just come to The Boutique Theatre every Thursday at 11:00 am for 'Mexico explained, in plain English.'

Hosted by Carlos Navarro, who recently served as political analyst and policy adviser to the Chief of Staff to the President of Mexico, the 'Connect with Mexico' series will give you a better understanding of your adopted country.

This series of friendly conversations about Mexican culture, geography, history, literature, art, government and its many peoples, will help you think and act in a more bicultural fashion as the many wonders and intricacies of this fascinating country are explained through words, images, and insights that help you better understand 'Mexican ways.'

Each week focuses on a specific topic. Next up:

"The Sad Story of Spiraling Violence in Mexico."

So, is Mexico indeed one of the most violent countries in the world? Yes, it is. But do you feel threatened while living and visiting here? Do you hear firearms going off in your Mexican neighborhood? Do Mexicans go around their business looking over their shoulders?

The story of the rising tide of violence in Mexico begins in December of 2006, it is still being told and, like all violent stories, it is indeed sad. However, it would do us good to understand where all this came from, why it has gone so wrong, whether we are all truly personally threatened and if the country will ever come back to peace and quiet.

Want to find out? Then be sure to come to The Boutique Theatre on Thursday, January 24, at 11:00 am to "Connect with Mexico." There's no doubt we can all learn something, enjoy each other's company, and gain new insights on how to enjoy Mexico even more.

Tickets cost $250 Pesos per person, per session, and can be purchased at The Boutique Theatre or online at btpv.org.

For more info, visit ConnectWithMexico.com, or email connectwithmexico(at)gmail.com.