Edition 21 - February 2009

PLEASE TAKE ONE FREE/GRATIS No. 21 - www.mexicoliving.info

February / febrero 2009

Carnaval 2009 Calexico Border Crossing New Coast Highway

y r a s r e iv on n n LIVE • WORK • PLAY • INVEST • RETIRE r3 d A E d i t i

Welcome to Northwest Mexico USA: 800-576-0919 Ext. 3 Ensenada: 646-192-6965 San Felipe: 686-230-9933 Puerto Peñasco: 638-388-5004 San Carlos: 622-111-2624 Website: www.mexicoliving.info Email: info@mexicoliving.info Mexico Living is a guide committed to promoting Northwest Mexico to the limits of our abilities and to provide a valuable resource to visitors and residents of Northwest Mexico. We highlight the amazing natural beauty, friendly people, opportunities and lifestyles of one of the most unique places on Earth; and to showing that Northwest Mexico is a great place not only to visit and play, but also to live and work – a place to call home.

Discover Northwest Mexico: Yes, this is a Baja wave. March through April is when the Southern swells come in, peaking in May-August, and the more southern areas, and south-facing breaks will be best. This is when hurricane south swells may come in. Baja California offers world case waves, so grab your board and wax and head south for some sweet surf. Watch for a surfing special in the April Edition.

Mexico Living Publishing Team Published by John Benjamin ______ Pack

Publisher/Editor, John Pack, john@mexicoliving.info Publisher, Rachel Pack, rachel@mexicoliving.info Managing Editor, Brenda Judy, bjudy@mexicoliving.info Golf Editor, Hal “Paco” Clark, bajapaco@gmail.com

Distribution Gene & Darcy Jensen, Regional Carlos Duran, Gold Coast Russ Black, Puerto Penasco

Regional Sales Associates Carlos Duran Rosarito Beach carlos@mexicoliving.info

Writers Bob Ham, Carlos Durán, Russ Black, Naomi Black, Gretchen Ellinger, Penny Nask, Beverly Arrowood, Linda Shiflett, Carlos & Julia Bono, Lynn Prince, Steven Forman, Lisa Shannon, Steve Dryden, Alfonso Arambula, John Pack, Benjamin Eugene, Rachel Pack, Rita Pizarro, Audery Coffman, & Ron Saunders.

Bill Maine, San Felipe bill@mexicoliving.info Kathy Preppernau, San Felipe, kjprepp@mexicoliving.info Russ Black, Puerto Peñasco, russ@mexicoliving.info Lynn Prince San Carlos, lynnprinceformlg@gmail.com

Ad Graphics GreetScape, adart@mexicoliving.info Production Layout Carolyn Sheltraw, info@csheltraw.com _________

Mexico Mailing Address: Yetmail Box #460 • San Felipe, B.C. Mexico 21850 USA Mailing Address: PO Box 9019, PMB#460 • Calexico, CA 92232

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. All contributors and advertisers assume responsibility and liability for the accuracy of their statements and claims. All readers assume responsibility for actions or decisions they might make as a result of reading this publication. We reserve the right to refuse any advertising.

4 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Welcome to Northwest Mexico

Table of Contents

EACH SECTION IS COLOR CODED ON THE RIGHT MARGIN

Ensenada: Welcome to Ensenada................................... 35 New Oaxacon Restaurant............................... 37 Wineries....................................................... 38 Three Women Winery.................................... 38 San Felipe: Welcome to San Felipe.......................................43 The Lighthouse Restaurant.................................44 San Felipe Scene................................................46 Casey’s Place....................................................49 How I Found San Felipe......................................51

Calendar & Events: Carnaval 2009...................................................14 Calendar Dates...................................................15 Gospel Review...................................................17 Rocky Point Bike Rally........................................18 San Carlos Carnaval Kickoff...............................19 3rd Annual Mexico DAR Conference...................20

San Carlos: Welcome to San Carlos......................................74 Where to Buy Appliances and Furniture...............76 Rotary Parade of Homes....................................77 Women’s Annual Tetas de Cabra Climb...............78 History & Culture: The Spanish Conquest.......................................80 Teresita..............................................................81 People & Voices: My Funny Valentine............................................82 An American in Baja: Irene.................................83 Beware Insecticides...........................................83 Art & Design: Aida Valencia.....................................................85 Travel & Road Trips: Puerticetos Hot Springs.....................................86 Traveling the Road to El Golfa Road....................88

WELCOME / BIENNVENIDO

Welcome: Letters to the Editor..............................................6 Mexico Living Contributors...................................7 Welcome to the Northwest...................................9 Regional Map.....................................................10

Puerto Peñasco: Welcome to Puerto Peñasco..............................62 Off the Beaten Path............................................64 Puerto Peñasco’s Got it Going On......................66 A Slightly Salty Shade Tree.................................67 The Making of a Chef.........................................69 Got Love? Go to Puerto Peñasco........................71

Real Estate: Cholla Bay in Puerto Peñasco.............................90 Playa del Paraiso is on the Move........................90 Ejidos in Mexico.................................................91 Brain Games.....................................................92 Classified..........................................................94 News Briefs: Mexico’s Economic Recovery Plan.....................22 National News....................................................23 San Felipe News.................................................23 Rosarito News...................................................23 Cover Feature: Calexico Border Crossing...................................24 New Coast Highway...........................................26 Rosarito Beach: Welcome to Rosarito Beach........................... 28 Oceanfront B&B Scene.................................. 30 Rosarito Beach Scene................................... 32 Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 5

Welcome to Northwest Mexico

IN BOX - Letters and eMails

Publishers Letter

SEND US FEEDBACK

Do you have a comment? Email us at mexicoliving@gmail.com

Our Third Anniversary It's February once again and for many it's Carnaval and love.

For Rachel and I, it's our third anniversary, New Year's Eve party at least it's our third at the Lighthouse February edition. Our Restaurant. first February was the Photo by Marianne Clagett premiere edition of San Felipe Magazine, a year later on our second anniversary San Felipe Magazine became Mexico Living and now you're reading our third anniversary edition and again we're expanding.

We just couldn't provide all the information we wanted in on 72 pages, so we've increase to 96 to allow room for all the new sections and resources.

Letters to the Editor

You'll see some things are moved and many others added.

Next month, we will be changing to a paid circulation. We have been providing the guide for free, but U.S. distribution is requiring paid circulation and with increased paper costs, customs, transportation and all the wonderful things we deal with to produce this book monthly, we have to start charging 20 pesos per month (less than $1.50).

Be sure to let us know what information you need. We hope to prove the most up-to-date guide available for our region, and we can always use help. We will continue to do everything we can to produce the very best product, and we appreciate all your continued support and love. Thank you so very much.

SEND US FEEDBACK

Do you have a comment? Email us at mexicoliving@gmail.com

Disservice to Service Organizations

The Mexico Living Magazine, January 2009 article, “Best of 2008”, shows an impressive list of best places to eat, drink, stay, have dental work done, etc. No doubt, this is interesting information for residents and visitors. It is certainly an issue that you want to keep close at hand.

However, by having a Service Organization category and listing only one such organization, I feel that you are doing an injustice to the men and women of other service organizations, such as Las Amigas, Better Together, Rotary and others, who all work tireless for our community.

When it comes to service to the community, there is no good, better or best. Only motivated, compassionate people organized in the service club of their choice. I therefore urge you to delete this category in the future.

Respectfully submitted, William F.(Pim) VanSissere, San Felipe We’ve discussed it and couldn’t agree more.

All the services organizations in San Felipe 6 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

and across Mexico do amazing works for their communities and all need to be thanked and appreciated for their compassion and selfless contributions. Thank you for bringing this to our attention.

Where did the Home Show go?

I looked in the January edition for something about the Mexico Living Home Show and didn’t see anything, what’s up? Are you still going to have it? We tried to get in last year and want a head start, because we’ll be coming from Rosarito Beach.

The Home Show is going to be incredible this year, the only difference is now it’ll be in November, instead of March. Mexico Living copromotes alongside the Lions Club of San Felipe the Blues & Arts Fiesta in March and we wanted to focus on one event at a time.

Many snowbirds start arriving about November and that’s when they’ll need all the information and contacts they’ll find at the Mexico Living Home Show. Mark your calendar for November 7th, San Felipe. Besides, working on two events that size back to back would have killed us.

Mexico Living is only possible through the continued contributions from all these knowledgeable and talented people. If you would like to become a contributor, please email mexicoliving@gmail.com Carlos Durán, Playas de Rosarito - Born in Calexico. Carlos owned a Latino publication for the Long Beach/LA for five years. Today Mr. Durán is a dual citizen living in Playas de Rosarito enjoying the region and traveling the peninsula as often as possible.

Alfonso Arambula - An art and English teacher and highly awarded artist, with public sculptures at present in 13 different locations within Baja California; he is the artist for FOX Studios in Rosarito, was appointed Member of the Advisory Committee for the Culture Institute of Baja California and has been featured on the Discovery Channel.

Steve Dryden, Ensenada - Steve is a wine, food and travel writer living in Mexico’s premier wine country of Guadalupe Valley. He is a former Napa Valley winery manager who now guides private, small groups and motor coach wine tours. Steve has spent much time over the last forty years at his family’s fishing camp in Baja California.

Centavo - A.K.A. Pamela Esther Nask A.K.A “Penny” has been writing her column incognito for Mexico Living for a year. Co-owner of Simpatico Arts, she is a writer and an art historian, whose luck in these fields has given her an early retirement. She attributes “laughter” as the best possible stimulus for life.

Audrey Coffman, San Felipe - East-coast born and raised, Audrey has done a lot of things and lived a lot of places; She’s had many different careers, raised two kids and has never been to jail. None of this qualifies her as a published writer, but she is in love with the Baja and the interesting folks who have made it their home.

Ron Saunders, San Felipe - A native New Yorker, until 1986 when he relocated to Colorado. With his camera at his side he has travelled the world. In 2003 he moved to Baja California. Ron is a member of Editorial Photographers, a professional photography assoc. and a charter member of the San Felipe Fine Arts Association.

Russ & Naomi Black, Puerto Peñasco - Russ and Naomi grew up in Phoenix, Arizona and have been married for over 26 years. They have traveled with their 3 children throughout Mexico. They owned Peñasco RV Club and conducted RV Caravan tours in Northern Mexico and as far as the Copper Canyon for many years.

WELCOME / BIENNVENIDO

Our Contributors

Welcome to Northwest Mexico

Gretchen Ellinger, Puerto Peñasco - Gretchen Ellinger is known for her expertise in foreigner ownership of Mexican property and her love of Puerto Peñasco and Mexico. She shares her adventurous spirit in her articles. She lives and works in Cholla Bay, in a home she built, with her bilingual standard poodle Katie Sue, two cats, and her bed and breakfast guests.

Lisa Shannon, San Felipe - Lisa has been a frequent visitor to San Felipe since August 2007. She has been involved in printing and graphic design for over two decades. Lisa enjoys working very hard to establish a good life for herself and her partner, Bill Maine, and their two dogs, Mija and Sugar.

Beverly Arrowood, Puerto Peñasco - In 1987 she made her first trip to Puerto Peñasco and the beautiful Sea of Cortez. In 1995 she moved to the little sleepy fishing village and has had fun watching it evolve and being a part of its growth. Now with Tessoro, a luxury condo development in Las Conchas and feeling blessed to have made so many wonderful friends here.

Carlos and Julia Bono, San Felipe - Carlos and Julia Bono moved to San Felipe several years ago from the San Francisco Bay Area.

Today, they are proprietors of the Sahuaros.net Internet Café located on Calle Puerto Peñasco in the town of San Felipe, where they offer: Internet, English/Spanish translation and interpretation and more.

Rita Pizarro, Puerto Peñasco - Rita has lived in Peñasco for 6 years. In addition to freelance writing Rita also offers Vacation Rentals by Owner, Massage, Home Inspections, Yoga, Kite Surfing, Pet Sitting and adventure camps.

It may seems like a lot but somehow it all fits her active lifestyle.

Steven Forman, San Felipe - Nicknamed “DogMan” by folks around San Felipe, Steven Forman came to San Felipe in 2003 with his partner and their five dogs. Steven says, the reason he came to San Felipe was to get involved in humane animal work

Linda Shiflett, San Carlos / Guaymas - After 30 years in Spokane, Washington, Linda and husband Mike went full-time to a motor home, followed NASCAR and wintered in San Carlos, Sonora. In 2007, they built a home in the San Carlos Country Club. Most days Linda is busy with several local organizations, including the San Carlos DAR Chapter that she organized in 2007.

Bob Ham, San Felipe - Bob has been to Mexico since the 1960’s. In 2006 he was inducted into the Off Road Motorsports Hall of Fame as a pioneer in the sport of off-road. He now works for Imperial County and is responsible for transportation planning efforts, including border crossing infrastructure.

Lynn Prince, San Carlos / Guaymas - Native Californian, Lynn is currently a researcher and freelance journalist living in San Carlos, Sonora, Mexico and former Feature Editor and staff writer for the San Carlos Times/Tribune.

Before her move to Mexico 5 years ago, Fox 30 in Northern California utilized her talents for 13 years.

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 7

Welcome to Northwest Mexico

Mexico Living People

8 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Northwest Mexico

Welcome to Northwest Mexico

Welcome to Northwest Mexico Photo by Victor Rodriquez Ratliff

Live, Work and Play in Paradise.

of landscapes like no place on earth—a land of quiet, colorful deserts, endless beaches, majestic mountains, forests, unexplained rock formations, brilliant clear skies, an average temperature of seventy-five degrees, and some of the most welcoming people in the world.

Northwest Mexico is the destination of choice for retirees, investors, entrepreneurs, travelers, and vacationers alike. The U.S. State Department say more Americans retire in Mexico than any other place on the globe; 51% of all U.S. retirees who live outside of the U.S. live in Mexico.

Mexico is economical; the dollar goes further here than it does in Europe, Canada, and the most popular destinations of Asia. The people of Mexico are accustomed to Americans and vice versa. Mexico welcomes American retirees and tourists and is increasingly prepared to offer the foods, goods, and services that Americans like and expect.

Whether you’re looking to retire, invest, vacation, or operate a business, Northwest Mexico is the place.

We hope our guide helps you to enjoy Northwest Mexico to the fullest. Explore!

TOURISM & VISITOR INFO Detailed information can be obtained from the following tourist offices: Mexico, visitmexico.com Baja California, State Tourism www.discoverbajacalifornia.com & www.turismobc.gob.mx 011-52-664-634-6330, -634-6918, -634-6574, or toll free from the U.S. (888) 775-2417 Ensenada Baja California, www.enjoyensenada.com , 011-52-646-172-3022, or (800) 310-9687; www.enjoyensenada.com Rosarito Baja California, www.rosarito.org 011-52-661-612-5222, or (800) 962-2252; www.rosarito.org San Felipe Baja California, sanfelipe.com.mx (COTUCO) 011-52-686-577-1104 Tecate Baja California, tecatemexico.com.mx

WELCOME / BIENNVENIDO

he Mexican states of Baja California and Sonora T make up Northwest Mexico as covered by our guide. The region features an enormous diversity

Tijuana Baja California, seetijuana.com, 011-52-664-684-0537, or toll free from the U.S. (888) 775-2417; www.tijuanaonline.org.

Mexicali Baja California, mexicaliturismo.com/cotuco/prueba/ ingles. Mexicali is the capital of the State of Baja CA. Sonora State Government http://www.gotosonora.com/ Hermosillo Sonora, www.gotosonora.com/hermosilloson-mx.htm. Hermosillo is the capital of the State of Sonora.

Puerto Peñasco www.cometorockypoint.com.

Guaymas/SanCarlos www.gotosonora.com/ san-carlos-son-mx.htm.

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 9

Welcome to Northwest Mexico

NORTHWEST MEXICO

10 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

WELCOME / BIENNVENIDO

Welcome to Northwest Mexico

BORDER CROSSINGS 1. San Ysidro, CA............. Tijuana, B.C. 2. Otay Mesa, CA. ............ Tijuana, B.C. 3. Tecate, CA..................... Tecate, B.C. 4. Calexico, CA. ............. Mexicali, B.C. 5. Andrade, CA...... Los Algodones, B.C. 6. San Luis, AZ..... S.L. RĂ­o Colorado, Son. 7. Lukeville, AZ........... Sonoita, Sonora 8. Sasabe, AZ. .................Altar, Sonora 9. Nogales, AZ. .......... Nogales, Sonora 10. Naco, AZ..................... Naco, Sonora 11. Douglas, AZ. .....Agua Prieta, Sonora Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 11

Welcome to Northwest Mexico

MEXICAN CUSTOMS & BORDER CROSSING have a $150 exemption. You must have receipts and invoices to qualify for the exemption.

WHAT DO I NEED? A combination of identification documents, such as a U.S. Drivers License and a U.S. Bir th Cer tificate or a valid U.S. passport - PASSPORTS ARE NOT REQUIRED! You do not need a tourist visa if you visit any of the northwest region for 72 hours or less. You can obtain a tourist card in Mexicali at the Aduana (Customs) office building located at the border gates.

What can I bring into Mexico?

As you approach the order, there are generally multiple lanes labeled “Nothing to Declare - Nada que Declarar” and “Declaration Lane - Carril de Declaración.”

Nothing to Declare Lane ($75 per personal value or less) This lane is used when you are bringing, as a tourist (FMT) $75 or less. Your personal luggage and other merchandise up to the allowed exemption - US $75 per person. The amount is cumulative per number of person in the vehicle. For example two people would

Personal Items Allowed: • New or used such as clothes, shoes and toiletries in quantities that would be considered not for resale.

• Two photographic or video cameras and charger.

• Two cellular phones or walkie-talkies, • Laptop, notebook, etc.

• Two sports equipment items.

• Portable radio recorder and/or player, speakers and accessories.

• Five laser discs, 10 DVDs, 30 CDs or cassette tapes. Five storage devices or memory cards.

• Books and magazines in quantities that would be considered not for resale.

• Five toys, video game console and video games • Medicine for personal use, one blood pressure instrument, one glucose testing device. In the case of psychotropic drugs, make sure you bring the prescription. Note: Be careful not to bring a large quantity of your prescription medication.

• One set of binoculars, one telescope.

• 20 cartons of cigarettes, 25 cigars or 200 grams of tobacco if you are of age if bringing more than allowed, you must declare it and pay duties).

• Up to three liters of liquor and six liters of wine (if bringing more than allowed, you must declare it and pay duties).

• Strollers and baby walkers • Two musical instruments and accessories.

• Tent and equipment for camping.

• Crutches, canes, walkers, and wheelchairs for personal use.

From the Mexicali West crossing veer right onto Calz. Lopez Mateos which heads south towards San Felipe. At the fork for San Felipe and San Luis Rio Colorado, all traffic will veer left onto Sanchez Taboda towards San Luis Rio Colorado. Remain on this road for approx. 3 miles, then turn right onto Calz. Roblerdo Industrial, this road will take you back to San Felipe Hwy 5.

The roads are marked with signs for San Felipe at key locations on the right; one at the first fork and another at the right turn back towards Hwy 5.

Drive slowly and stay alert.

12 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Welcome to Northwest Mexico • Tool sets including hand drills, wire cutters, wrenches, screwdrivers, cables, etc.

• Bedding sets including one sheet set, one towel set, a set of table linens.

• Two dogs or cats and pet items.

• Up to $10,000 in US currency or equivalent in other currencies, foreign or national checks, and/or other monetary instruments.

IMPORTANT NOTES: • Guns are illegal in Mexico. Do not attempt to cross the border with a gun and/or ammunition. You will be put in jail even if you were not aware of the Mexican law.

• If you have more than $10,000 in US currency or equivalent or other monetary instruments you must declare this with Mexican customs, otherwise it is a crime.

• You must declare if you are bringing any animals, agricultural products, medicine other than personal use.

• Amounts over US $1000 require the use of a Mexican customs broker.

WHAT CAN I TAKE HOME? You can bring back 800 USD of duty-free merchandise per person, per month, including one liter of alcohol. Mexican arts and crafts, including handcrafted furniture, are duty-free and do not count toward the 800 USD limit.

WELCOME / BIENNVENIDO

Declaration Lane ($75 - $1000) If you are bringing more than US $75 worth of merchandise per person, but not more than US $1000, you may declare it by driving into the customs facility thru the declaration lane (carril de declaración). There you will be able to fill out the proper documents and pay any duty. Duty can be between 15% and 25% of the value of the merchandise.

VEHICLE PERMITS Tourists traveling with their vehicle beyond the border zone north of Ensenada, San Felipe or Puerto Peñasco must obtain a temporary import permit or risk having their vehicle confiscated by Mexican customs officials.

MILITARY CHECKPOINTS There are military checkpoints along the way to all the Northwest border cities. These check points serve the same purpose as the California and Arizona highway inspection stops you’ll encounter on the return north. The soldiers will be carrying weapons, but there is nothing to be concerned about, the soldiers are looking for drugs and guns. You’ll find them to be polite and friendly. They may ask to look inside your vehicle or RV. Check points on both sides of the border, are an agreement between the United States and Mexico to fight drugs.

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 13

Northwest Mexico Calendar & Events

CALENDAR

Carnaval 2009

Feb 19–24, is Ensenada’s Largest Annual Event ENSENADA – Carnaval de Pelicula 2009 “Una Fiesta con Futuro” takes place from Thursday, February 19, through Tuesday, February 24. Don’t miss Ensenada’s largest annual event featuring a Mardi Gras style celebration, parades, dancing, races, and family events—all blended with regional food, wine and other spirited beverages. Book your lodging reservations in downtown as soon as possible as rooms disappear rapidly, then put on your walking shoes, beads, colorful clothing and get ready to party! Be prepared to mingle with 85,000 to 90,000 local, regional, national and international guests as they celebrate multiple events over a sixday period. Last year over 500,000 guests roamed the streets of Ensenada over the six-day extravaganza in designated and secure locations without any major problems or security issues. Most intelligent and careful folks parked their vehicles at home or at hotels, walked, ran or taxied to the events. There will be limited parking between 7th and 8th and Miramar during the events for those with designated drivers and non-drinkers.

Admission to almost every event is free with vendors marketing beverages, food, gift items, crafts and souvenirs around the specified event locations in the downtown area. The Mayor’s office, law enforcement and event planners focus on event safety and security with on-site patrols, cameras and crowd management techniques. Several children’s and family events are featured along with an amazing array of interesting concerts, dance exhibitions, art shows and wine tasting venues being offered. You must be 18 years old to legally consume alcohol, and it is suggested that you pace yourselves as drunk and dangerous conduct will not be tolerated. Drinking is allowed in the “party zones” but not on city streets or in other public areas. Wine tasting will be offered on three nights: Saturday, Feb 21, Sunday, Feb 22 and Tuesday, Feb 24, from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. near Santo Tomas winery on Miramar, between 6th and 8th Ave. The Carnaval opens on Thursday, February 19, with the traditional Quena del Mar Hunor or the Burning of Bad Humor. This opening event includes fireworks located at Ruiz and 7th, beginning at 8 p.m.

Friday marks the Ceremonia de Coronacion de las Costes Reales or the Coronation of the Carnaval King and Queen and their Court located at Ruiz and 6th beginning at 8 p.m.

14 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

by Steve Dryden

Saturday is a main attraction event with Carnaval Atletico or Sports Events that include foot racing and running. This also is the first day of parades beginning at 2 p.m. on Avenida Juarez and Ruiz and Boulevard Costero. The street fair begins at Miramar and 6th at 7 p.m. until 1 a.m. It is traditionally a family day, but watch your children during events and parades to avoid running for candy and gifts during traffic movement.

Pick a spot to meet in case somebody gets lost!

Sunday is traditionally celebrated with a Circuito Ciclista or All Ages Bicycle Races on Av. Adolfo Lopez Materos (Calle Primera) or First Ave and Pedro Loyola beginning at 9 a.m. Later in the evening the street fair continues near Santo Tomas winery from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Monday is the “beloved” Baile del Marido Oprimido or the Oppressed Spouse Dance at the Bahia Hotel on Av.Lopez Mateos and Av. Alvarado at 8 p.m.

The event wraps up on Tuesday with Ultimo desfile de Carnaval or the final parade, Grand Finale and Entierro de Juan Carnaval or the burial of Juan Carnaval which symbolizes the burial of all that is impure, and marks the beginning of the Lent season.

Northwest Mexico Calendar & Events

Steve Dryden is a food, wine and travel writer living in Valle de Gaudalupe where he guides individual and small group wine tours. He can be reached at sbdryden@hotmail.com.

NORTHWEST MEXICO CALENDAR OF EVENTS SUBMIT YOUR CALENDAR EVENT http://www.mexicoliving.info (under Articles and Community menu)

IMPORTANT DATES Feb. 1: Super Bowl Feb. 5: Constitution Day Banks are closed (MX).

Feb. 14: Valentines Day (US) Feb. 19-24: Carnaval Feb 25: Ash Wednesday March 8: Daylight Savings Time begins (US) March 10-24: Spring Break March 16: Anniversary of the birth of Benito Juarez - National Holiday (MX) March 17-23: Holy Week March 17: St Patrick’s Day (US)

ROSARITO Feb. 15: Tom Gatch Monthly Fishing Tournament 12 years of age and under - $5 adults and $7 families the Rosarito Beach Hotel Pier more info: 661-612-1111

C AL ENDAR & EVENTS

The parade begins at 2 p.m. near Avenida Juarez, Ruiz and Boulevard Costero. The burial event takes place at Salon Casa Blanca at 6 p.m. The final street fair events continues at Santo Tomas winery from 7 p.m. until 1 a.m.

For specific Carnaval information please call (646) 175-7740 or email carnavalens09@ gmail.com. ABC and Mexicoach Transportation companies will be offering special fares from San Ysidro into Ensenada for the Carnaval season.

Costa Baja Hotel of Ensenada will offer special room rates by using code 078 on their website when making reservations. And, for those who are not “party animals,” remember you can join animals (mammals to be specific) during the annual whale migration taking place near Ensenada from February through March.

Feb. 21: Spring Motocross Series Rnd. 1 for more info: U.S. (619) 819.6323 March 7: Spring Motocross Series Rnd. 2 for more info: U.S. (619) 819.6323 March 15: Tom Gatch Monthly Fishing Tournament 12 years of age and under - $5 adults and $7 families the Rosarito Beach Hotel Pier more info: 661-612-1111 March 15: Rosarito Shooting Club - 22 Caliber Tournament. At Rosarito Shooting Club Range, more info at: +52(661)612-1028.

ENSENADA Feb. 1-28: Gray whale crossing. Narrated tour, an extensive explanation of the crossing Feb. 1-5: Carnaval - Six city blocks of see: more at: www.carnavalensenada.org Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 15

Northwest Mexico Calendar & Events

San Felipe Carnaval 2009

by Carlos & Julia Bono

The coordinator for The San Felipe Carnaval 2009, Mr Marcos Gonzalo Negrete, is pleased to announce that this year the annual event’s theme will be “Sea of Cortez – Aquarium of the World”. Other local participants on the Carnaval organizational committee are Celso Villaverde (Financial Coordinator), Cesar Rodriguez, Martin Romo, and Jesus Alvarez. Linda Garcia is in charge of the floats and dancers, Oscar Miranda will be responsible for selection of the Queen, and Pedro Camacho is organizing the theme car parade. The committee will be coordinating with the Municipal Delegado Hazael Sierra Castillo and the chief of police Oscar Martinez to create a safe and memorable event for the town.

This year, Carnaval will take place between the 19th and 24th of February and all of the main events will be held downtown at the Plaza de la Conservacion on the Malecon. The event will feature floats, theme cars, a Queen and her Court of Honor as well as the traditional Ugly King. The event will commence on the 19th, with an icebreaker ceremony, followed on Friday with an official opening ceremony featuring the burning of Bad Temper or “Mal Humor” and the coronation

16 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

San Felipe Delegado Municipal (Mayor) Hazael Sierra standing with previous San Felipe Carnaval Queens.

Photo by Francisco Romo Victorio.

of the Queen and her Court of Honor, followed by a fireworks display and dancing to live music. Saturday and Sunday will feature a parade of floats and theme cars beginning at 4pm, as well as children’s floats on the Malecon from 1pm, followed by live music and dancing at night. The Carnaval fun will continue on Monday and will culminate on Tuesday the 24th with the dance of the Little Masks or “Baile de Mascaritas”.

A variety of musical groups will entertain both foreign visitors and local residents in the afternoons throughout the event so that Carnaval can also be enjoyed early in the day.

Northwest Mexico Calendar & Events

A pregnant nun at “Gospel Brunch” brought the house down

by Lisa Shannon

Mar. 1-31: Gray whale crossing. Narrated tour, an extensive explanation of the crossing Mar 14-15: Tecate Scores Baja 250 International off road www.score-international.com

Photo by Victor Rodriques Ratliff

balloon belly popped and out flew this baby doll. She picked it up, loved it across the stage, laughter filled the air. Kiki does a great impression of a sixties-variety Carwash, with a wicked afro wig bigger than she was!

Volunteers walked around selling raffle tickets for the ZAPP cruise giveaway, and the stubs were used this day for door prizes: doggie stuff and LIPS T-shirts were among the gifts given out. It really was a great experience, the second drag event held in San Felipe to raise funds for ZAPP (Zero Additional Pup-ulation Project) and we look forward to their next visit. The queens can be seen at their regular venue in San Diego, LIPS, performing their Sunday Brunch each week. Visit their website at www.lipsshow. biz for more information. For more pictures go to www.mexicoliving.info and click on “Gallery.” clay pots, jewelry, woven baskets, and other native crafts. Original items will be for sale and are not available anywhere else in Mexico.

10am– 4pm at La Plazita, 614 Mar de Cortez, Downtown San Felipe

Mar.23-25: Record Off Road Race El Alamo 200. Four turn circuit with 50 mile track with participation of ATGVs, Motorcycles and fourwheel vehicles. www.recordoffroad.com

Feb 13: Las Amigas Casino Day at Campo Ocotillo 11am - 3pm; US $10 for $100.00 worth of chips. All proceeds go to Las Amigas University Students. www.clublasamigas.com

SAN FELIPE

Feb 21: Festival de La Paella will be held at the El Cortez Hotel

Feb 1-7: La Serie del Caribe in Mexicali

Feb 24: Dia de la Bandera - Flag Day (MX)

Feb 5: San Felipe’s 84th Anniversary www.sanfelipeinfo.com

March 7: Las Amigas Poker Run, Km 166 8:30am ...Line Up 12:30pm....Trophy Presentation $25.00. All proceeds go to the Las Amigas University Students www.clublasamigas.com

Feb 7: Craft Show presented by the Pai Pai Indians of Ensenada. A group from the Pai Pai Indian Reservation, who live in the mountains about 50 miles from Ensenada, will visit San Felipe to demonstrate their crafting of authentic

C AL ENDAR & EVENTS

Tootie, Kiki, Gigi and Justice comprise this amazing group of drag entertainers, and the “girls” shared their satirical interpretation of Gospel Brunch with 275 people of San Felipe on January 12. The audience witnessed an amazing show—what fun!

Tootie was the pregnant nun, wearing a glittery habit and Converse tennis shoes, parading around the stage with a warm welcome to everyone.

As the show progressed and the “sisters,” donning what would sometimes be referred to as church dresses, came out clapping and dancing to soulful Baptist hymns. Clearly satirical, sacrilegious and enormously hysterical! Kiki shocked the crowd coming out in a sexy gown showing her latest investment: BOOBS! Of course, there was no exposure, but she looked fabulous in this famous dress. Audience participation was encouraged when the nuns paraded into the crowd to collect some choir members. They put them in choir robes and danced them around the stage, laughing, singing and clapping their hands.

Every soul in the room was laughing.

Another satirical skit brought Tootie out dressed as a pregnant disgruntled housewife, singing about her man and the baby on the way. Next thing you know, the

March 13-15: The Tecate Score Baja 250 www.score-international.com

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 17

Northwest Mexico Calendar & Events

Rocky Point Bike Rally was a huge success

by Beverly Arrowood, Sales Agent for Tessoro

Puerto Peñasco – The 8th Annual Rocky Point Bike Rally, as in previous years, was a huge success with over 7,000 bikers from as far away as Corpus Christie, Texas, Nevada, California and beyond as well as about 60 of the “Solo Angels” from TJ and the “Los Vagos” from Mexicali. Needless to say, with the opening of the Coastal Highway connecting Puerto Peñasco and El Gulfo to San Luis, their ride will be much shorter next year.

This rally provides a great deal of excitement as well as income to the city of Peñasco and its charities.

Oscar Palacio has been in charge of this event since its inception. This year $20,000 was donated to local charities.

There are custom bikes of all shapes and sizes.

For example, there was a bike that looked like a John Deer tractor, a bike trailering a casket, some made to look like rear ends of cars, etc. It is especially interesting to see how many of the riders are women.

It is truly amazing how many millions of dollars in bikes arrive here every year for this event. Most make their reservations for the next year upon checking out of their hotels and condos. It transforms a normally quiet beach resort town in a “roar of thunder.” All the restaurants and bars had a very successful week!

Saturday provides the bikers with a poker run which highlights the day with a parade of bikers that tours the entire city—usually the starting bikers meet the end of the bikers. Thousands of families turn out to see this event. This year, at the age of 63, I had the privilege of riding with my son’s friend and it was so much fun . . . that is until the end of the ride, when I could not get my leg over the back of the bike and had to be helped off!

The next event is November 6–9, 2009, so make your plans to come to Puerto Peñasco (Rocky Point) and join in on the fun.

18 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Photos by Beverly Arrowood

Northwest Mexico Calendar & Events

San Carlos Carnaval Kickoff February 2009

by Linda Shiflett

March 20, 21, & 22: Hobie Cat Midwinter West Regatta will be held at the El Cortez March 21: Caminata Contra el Cancer / Cancer Walk - Arches to Malecon More info contact Michele - 686-216-3237 March 21: Folk Festival 6-9pm at the Lighthouse. A dozen Flagstaff and San Felipe local musicians will perform. Look for miniconcerts that week leading up at The Title Co Bookstore. Info: 520 -491-0125 tony@ tonynorris.com Folkfest Photo

March 28: 5th Annual San Felipe Folk Festival at the San Felipe Baseball Stadium. 10 bands and over 40 artist from Mexico and the US. Tickets only $20.00. This is a charitable event, with all proceeds going to the Baja California Lions Club which sponsor the Flying Samaritans and Sonshine Hacienda, a home for abused children. For more information,

please email: bluesandarts@gmail.com See all the photos from previous years in the Mexico Living Gallery. www.mexicoliving.info at the end of Folkfest March 29: Celebrity Golf Tournament. You are cordially invited to participate in the 1st Annual San Felipe Youth Foundation Charity Golf Classic at Las Caras de Mexico Golf Course. Film and sports celebrities have been invited to participate; tournament proceeds will benefit Sonshine Hacienda Facility, a nonprofit organization providing youth with yearround housing, a safe, positive and nurturing environment, free from violence and neglect.

More info Mexico: 044 (686) 225-0707 • USA (626) 381-9883 • email: whdea80@ sbcglobal.net

C AL ENDAR & EVENTS

San Carlos – San Carlos Carnaval 2009 Kickoff will be held the night of the race. Participants will will be Sunday, February 15, with a half marathon, a include runners, walkers, steppers, jumpers, etc.

10K and a 5K walk, run, etc. The activities will begin Perks include the following: a race T-shirt and goody on Saturday, February 14, at 4 bag, unique carnaval-themed p.m. at the Health and Fitness awards, fruit and granola With a beautiful setting Expo at the San Carlos Country buffet, on course entertainment, like San Carlos, it will be Club. All participants will visit awards ceremony with band the Expo for packet pick up, concert, etc. a real “kick” to see the last day registration and race Visit the official website of information. Afterwards, there participants as they enter the event for more information will be a free spaghetti dinner for and to register online at www.

San Carlos and wind their sancarloshalfmarathon.com. participants, $9 for guests and spectators.

The event is expected to way to the Club de Playa Sunday, the half marathon draw 2,000 walkers, runners, on the Sea of Cortez! will begin at 8 a.m. at the joggers, etc. With a beautiful Delphinarium. 10K and 5K setting like San Carlos, it will starting locations will be announced at the Expo on be a real “kick” to see the participants as they enter Saturday. The finish line will be the MarinaTerra Club San Carlos and wind their way to the Club de Playa de Playa. Runners and walkers will be entertained on the Sea of Cortez! And the kick-off to Carnaval by live bands and spectators as they make their 2009! way to the finish line. An awards ceremony fiesta

Puerto Penasco Feb. 2: Wetlands Day; Wetland Bird Walk, 12 3pm more info call CEDO 638-382.0113 Feb. 10: Sand Drags Races Fast 4x4’s from all over Northwestern Mexico gather together.

Feb. 14: Destination Dunes, 9am - 3pm more info call CEDO 638-382.0113 Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 19

Northwest Mexico Calendar & Events

Hermosillo, Sonora, to host 33rd Annual Mexico DAR Conference San Carlos - San Carlos Chapter DAR, serving Kent, Director of Development for Hillside School, Sonora, Mexico, will host the 33rd Annual Conference DAR-approved school, and Donna Santistevan, of the Mexico State Society, Daughters of the Registrar General, who will update us on the American Revolution. The Fiesta Americana Hotel activities of the Spanish Task Force, whose research in Hermosillo welcomes Daughters and guests from has located several hundred hispanic patriots of the American Revolution and opens February 20–26. Conference the doors of membership for Chairman Linda Shiflett serves The NSDAR, organized as Chapter Regent of the hostess new members.

After the business of the chapter, San Carlos. in 1890, was founded conference concludes, the The State Conference will to promote historic group will spend the next several begin Friday evening, February days “discovering Sonora.”

20, with a welcome reception. preservation, education Highlights of the tour include Saturday morning, Mexico State and patriotic endeavors. the Mariachismo Restaurant, Regent, Cristy Trembly-Ziombra, Ensenada, will preside at the followed by various day trips Since then, over exploring the state. One day will business session, followed by 850,000 women have a luncheon. Sonoran dignitaries focus on Kino Bay, then the Rio de Sonora Communities of Ures, invited include the governor joined the DAR all over Banamichi and Aconchi. Another of Sonora, the Sonora State day tour will visit San Carlos and Secretary of Tourism, the mayor the world.

Guaymas, and another day to of Hermosillo and the U.S. Consul General. Special guests from the states include Emily tour our capital city of Hermosillo. When the members

20 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Northwest Mexico Calendar & Events

entire city block in downtown Washington, D.C., including the organization’s offices, as well as a genealogical library, decorative arts museum, historic document collection and Constitution Hall, one of Washington’s most famous concert venues.

All are open to the public. For more information, visit www.dar.org or call (202) 627-1776. San Carlos Chapter, San Carlos, Sonora, Mexico, has its own web page: www.freewebs.com/ sancarlosdar.

Mexico DAR gives special thanks to the Metropolitan Tucson Convention & Visitors Bureau offices in Tucson and Hermosillo. Their expertise in Mexico touring and the shuttles from Phoenix and Tucson airports was invaluable. Sonora, where the adventure begins! A great history for a great state!

Feb. 16-18: Angler of the year tournament (phase 1): Organized by JJ’s Cantina for more info (011) -52- 638-383-2785

Feb.12: Valentine’s Day Pork Roast Dinner.

Club Deportivo 4:30 pm. Bring your table service. US$10 or Mex$110

Feb. 28: Tidepool Exploration, 8:30 - 10:30am more info call CEDO 638-382.0113

Feb. 15: Rescate/Yacht Club Yellow Tail Fishing Tournament - Registration at the Yacht Club 3:00pm - 5:30pm. Dinner & Awards Party February 17 5:00 PM Email dnewlon@prodigy.net.mx

March 7: Las Conchas Home Tour, 11am - 3pm March 8: NaturArte - Kayak Caper & Oyster Lunch, 11am - 5pm more info call CEDO 638-382.0113 March 17: International Beer Fest At La Maria March 21: Destination Dunes, 9am - 3pm more info call CEDO 638-382.0113 March 22: World Water Day, more info call CEDO 638-382.0113 March 23: World Meterological Day; Stargazing Night, 7:30 - 9pm more info call CEDO 638-382.0113

San Carlos Feb. 10: Rotary Home Tour meet in The Country Club parking lot 12PM. Donation Mex$200 or US$20. Followed by a Margarita party

C AL ENDAR & EVENTS

depart Hermosillo, they will have seen Sonora from the northern desert to the Sea of Cortez! Tour members will be from all over the USA and Mexico.

The NSDAR, organized in 1890, was founded to promote historic preservation, education and patriotic endeavors. Since then, over 850,000 women have joined the DAR all over the world. The DAR has 3,000 chapters in all 50 of the United States, Washington, D.C., and internationally in Australia, Austria, the Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Spain and the United Kingdom. Mexico DAR has five chapters located in Baja California, Guadalajara, Lake Chapala, Mexico City and San Carlos, Sonora. The current membership for DAR is 165,000 members. Any woman 18 years or older, regardless of race, religion or ethnic background, who can prove lineal descent from a patriot of the American Revolution is eligible.

The DAR’s national headquarters encompasses an

Feb. 15: 5k Walk/Run. Info website: www. sancarloshalfmarathon.com/ Feb. 28; Rescate Casino Night. at Club Deportivo 5:00pm - 9:00pm.

March 2: SBPA Chili Cook-off. Los Jitos at 12 to 4PM. Purchase tickets for tasting.

March 6: PAC Concert University of Arizona Chorus singing Broadway tunes, spirituals and more. Doors open at 6pm at the San Carlos Plaza, US$10 or Mex$100. Tickets at Banamex 9:30am to 12noon March 10: Rescate Melodrama “Camp Wanna Pus”. 7pm San Carlos Plaza Hotel.

Mex$150.

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 21

Northwest Mexico News Briefs

NEWS & UPDATES

President Calderon Unveils

Mexico’s Economic Recovery Plan Recession in the U.S., which buys 80 percent of Mexico’s exports, presents a risk to Mexico’s economy. President Calderon recently noted that Mexico faces a significant challenge this year as the worldwide economic crisis worsens, sapping demand for exports and threatening jobs.

In response to the economic crisis, President Calderon unveiled Mexico’s emergency measures, which are part of a 25-point economic recovery plan called The National Agreement to Promote Families’ Economies. The agreement, signed by governors, the legislative branch, social, business and workers’ organizations as well as the President, is based on five key areas: 1. Supporting workers’ employment; 2. Supporting families’ economies; 3. Supporting competitiveness and small and medium-sized businesses; 4. Investment and infrastructure to promote

by Christa Thomas

competitiveness and employment; and 5. Encouraging actions to promote more transparent and efficient public spending.

“With these 25 measures, the federal government promises to defend household budgets and employment,” Calderon said, while pledging to inject billions of pesos into the Mexican economy.

The emergency measures include the following: 1. Infrastructure development.

President Calderon has pledged to increase funds for the development of infrastructure. The National Infrastructure Program has an impressive schedule to build and modernize over 17,000 kilometers of highways and country roads, and to rebuild and repair bridges and other public-use facilities.

2. Job creation. 250,000 jobs will be created by the acceleration of several planned infrastructure projects such as road repairs, restoration of historic sites and building and repairing airports and sea ports.

3. Comprehensive cuts to energy prices.

Mexico will freeze the price of gasoline this year and subsidize a 10 percent reduction in household gas prices. The plan will also lower electricity rates for businesses by up to 20 percent. Petroleos Mexicanos, the nationally owned oil industry, will receive an influx of funds to help it weather the economic storm.

4. Improved Social Security program. The government has pledged billions of pesos to help Mexicans who are unemployed or underemployed. Calderon vowed to improve the Social Security program for unemployed Mexicans, increasing from two months to six months the time they will receive medical and maternity coverage.

5. Subsidies. Calderon promised financial aid to struggling industries in a bid to save hundreds of thousands of jobs mostly in export industries that depend heavily upon the U.S. market. The federal government has pledged to make at least 20 percent of its purchases from small- and medium-size companies. He will also establish a fund to finance a “Made in Mexico” program.

President Calderon warned that Mexico would be experiencing a difficult year in terms of economic growth, investment and employment. However, he added that unlike “in the past, our economy today is much more solid and stable. And given the challenges, government will continue working tirelessly to offset the effects of the world financial crisis and overcome this situation as soon as possible.”

Sources: CNN, BBC, Bloomberg & AFP

22 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

National News

Feds to Freeze Gasoline Prices Local gas station owners fear that if the Federal government freezes gas prices nationally, it could have a devastating effect on local border stations. They contend that when gas prices again rise on the other side of the border, people will come across the border to hoard gas and create a shortage for local residents.

San Felipe News The San Felipe Chamber of Commerce elected its new board. The new Chairman is Jose Maria Cuevas, the owner of La Vaquita Restaurant and the Vaquita and El Sembrador grocery stores. In other business news, The Baja Medical Center opened its new clinic providing outpatient primary care and urgent treatment.

Its hours are from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, and it is located next to the El Dorado Pemex Station at Km 179. Also, Ask Margaret, a long-established real estate company in San Felipe, has decided to close operations. We wish the best to Ask Margaret agent Glenda Rohner, who just won Best Real Estate Agent 2008 making it two years in a row. Auto-Servicio Agua Express opened to provide a drive-in purified water service next to the new Los Arcos OXXO on Chetumal.

In municipal news, after Director of Public Safety Ulises Mendez visited on December 12, the Police Society Committee was formed to communicate complaints about the police to the administration in Mexicali. Police abuses in detaining tourists will not be tolerated, and the police station will have bilingual personnel to better assist tourists. Also, in December, Angel Andres Vera Aguilar, Director of Rural Development and the head of Mexicali county governments, visited San Felipe to oversee advances in issues related to tourist security. Several points were made: six Tourist Police officers will resume their duties in two shifts, improvements will be made to the Ministerio Publico’s services to tourists, and local businesses are encouraged to inform tourists of

Rosarito News

Popotla Fishermen With the aim of improving movement of fresh fish caught and sold from the Popotla boat launch area, the Playas de Rosarito Port Captain, Gustavo Enrique Alcudia explained that his office is compiling proposals to be presented to State and Federal authorities.

Proposals include building an office with refrigerated facilities to help preserve the fishermen’s catch. The Captain also seeks to get funding to improve the road from the entrance next to Fox Studios. In an effort to keep records of the type and amounts of fish that are being caught, the Captain proposes licensing each boat and also maintaining a log of boats that may arrive from Ensenada.

Rosarito Mayor Hugo Torres was the special guest at the La Joya Golden Triangle Rotary Club.

Baja California & Sonora

Cetys Law School professor, Alfredo Estrada Caravates, urges the government to reconsider proposals to freeze prices and make special concessions for border states, it was Reported in El Mexicano newspaper.

relevant laws. Finally, The San Felipe Fire Department and the Fireman’s Fraternity president Martin Romo, are thankful to Sand Drags promoter Mr. Ponce, local businesses and the San Felipe Rotary Club for their gifts of funds and building materials to improve the downtown fire station. They are also grateful to L.A. County Fire Station #116, which donated a new set of Jaws of Life with hoses and generator that will help save lives in auto accidents.

December 12, the Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe, was celebrated in San Felipe at the Catholic Church, which held a well-attended high mass with singing and a fair with food and treats in the churchyard. The Code Tecate “Race Ready 275” buzzed San Felipe on December 13. This was the last race and featured cars, trucks, motorcycles and quads. The Annual Christmas Parade of Lights held on December 16, and featured a string of lit-up vehicles starting after dark at the 7-11 Pemex Station on Chetumal. The parade headed downtown to the Malecon and finished at the La Vaquita Restaurant. Finally, among the New Year’s Eve parties held in San Felipe, those offering live music were the most successful. Good attendance was reported at the Lighthouse Restaurant, where Agave Blues played, and at Brian’s Beach Bar and Grill which hosted the Vatos Locos. Finally, the San Felipe 2009 Carnaval committee has been formed and the theme of the annual event, which is scheduled for February 19–24 will be “Sea of Cortez—Aquarium of the World.”

Mayor Hugo Torres Begins Tour of California Rosarito Mayor Hugo Torres was the special guest at the La Joya Golden Triangle Rotary Club. The purpose of the tour in California is to report on the improvements to public safety, which have been achieved by the Playas de Rosarito municipal government. One such major accomplishment is the “confidence testing” of each and every officer with lie detector tests that has been successful in relieving sixty officers from duty from the force. This instills a renewed confidence for security in residents and also to visitors of Rosarito.

Later in the day, Mayor Torres met with San Diego State students and Dr. Gerber, Dean of Latin American Studies at the University. He encouraged the students to visit and enjoy our region without fear for their safety and security.

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 23

Cover Feature

New changes at the Calexico border crossings coming in 2009

F

or the past three or four years, the City of Calexico and Imperial County have been busy lobbying the federal government to take drastic steps to shorten the wait times at the border crossings that are creating economic and environmental problems in both countries.

I recently met with Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials in Calexico to discuss the progress of various measures that are expected to be implemented in the immediate future that are intended to shorten the wait times at the borders.

The first project is the “stacked booth” project. This project will be in operation in June 2009. Simply put, the CBP will set up two booths per inspection lane similar to the way Walmart stores set up their checkout stands.

Using this approach, the CBP anticipates an ability to process 40 percent more vehicles for each lane that is converted to double stacking. There will be three lanes at the Calexico West port set up as stacked lanes under this initial test that should be operating by June.

Another operational change that is already being implemented requires all lanes at both Calexico East and Calexico West ports to be open and operating during all peak periods. This seems to be an obvious solution; however, it took several years to implement due to staffing shortages. One result of the massive lobbying effort on behalf of the county has been a massive recruiting and training program, as well as additional benefits for CBP employees who agree to be stationed in Calexico.

Another important initiative that came about as a suggestion from our citizen’s committee is to reroute traffic at the Calexico East port to allow vehicle traffic to use the cargo facility’s inspection lanes at times when the cargo facility is closed. This is particularly important for travelers who visit San Felipe on weekends and return on Sundays. Cargo facilities are 24 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

by Bob Ham

closed on weekends, so there will be four additional lanes available for passenger traffic at those times.

The CBP has already completed their preparations for this changeover, and are now awaiting the Mexican transportation officials to complete the changes they need to make to enable vehicles to cross over to the cargo ports.

In November, the CBP convinced the cross-border bus companies to reroute their traffic to the less crowded Calexico East port. Calexico West is now able to process much higher amounts of vehicle traffic on the right lane that had previously been tied up as bus passengers were processed in that lane. The East port’s pedestrian area is much better equipped to handle this kind of inspection, and the change is already seeing an improved flow of traffic and shorter lines at both crossings.

Early in 2009, CBP expects to be able to add a SENTRI lane for pedestrian crossers at the Calexico West port of entry. One of the concerns that originally led to the active engagement of Calexico City officials in the effort to shorten these lines was when they noticed the growing length of the pedestrian lines that included many elderly people who cross from Mexicali to obtain medical services in the U.S. and the school children who attend the several private schools in Calexico.

During late August and September when the Imperial Valley still experiences triple-digit temperatures, Calexicans were outraged to see these school children and elderly crossers subjected to wait times in the pedestrian lines that were in excess of one hour when the temperature had already reached the 100 degree mark. CBP responded by ensuring that anytime there was a backup that all lanes were staffed, later they added a lane for daily school crossers, and we are thrilled that they are now about to add a lane for SENTRI approved crossers that will shorten the processing

Bob Ham is a resident of Campo Las Arenas in San Felipe, where he has had a home since 1992 (he previously had another home in town since 1987). Bob is the Director of Intergovernmental Relations for the County of Imperial and also serves as the Executive Director of the Imperial County Association of Governments, which is the transportation planning agency for the county and the liaison with the municipality of Mexicali and Baja California State for coordinating transportation issues including working on improving traffic flow to and through the ports of entry.

Cover Feature

The Mexico–United States border is the international border between Mexico and the United States. It runs from San Diego, California, and Tijuana, Baja California, in the west to Matamoros, Tamaulipas, and Brownsville, Texas, in the east, and traverses a variety of terrains, ranging from major urban areas to inhospitable deserts. From the Gulf of Mexico it follows the course of the Rio Grande (Río Bravo del Norte) to the border crossing at El Paso,

C OVER STORY

time for many daily crossers; thus shortening the total wait time for all pedestrian crossers.

Many of us who have had SENTRI passes for some time have started to complain that even this program is now beginning to see lines in excess of 20 minutes and sometimes as long as one hour. Well, the good news is that CBP expects to be able to open a second SENTRI lane in the Calexico West port early in 2009 and are hopeful that they will be able to work with Mexico on a way to create a lane to access a new SENTRI lane at the East port of entry later in 2009.

Crossers at the Calexico East port most likely noticed some construction at that port. This project is part of a larger project known as the Western Hemisphere Initiative. Radio Frequency Identification Document (RFID) readers were installed at each lane and went into operation during December 2008.

These readers are similar to the ones already used at the SENTRI lanes where documents like the SENTRI cards, the new passports, and new border-crossing visas that are issued to Mexican nationals can be scanned using this high-tech equipment to decrease the amount of time an officer needs to inspect persons attempting to cross the border.

Besides being able to more quickly process all of the traffic at the border crossings, this new RFID equipment will enable the CBP to increase the number of SENTRI lanes available during peak periods so the SENTRI program will always be able to deliver on the promise to keep border wait times to a minimum for those who take the time to sign up for this “trusted traveler” program. The equipment will be installed at the Calexico West port by the first quarter of 2009.

There are also other major construction plans for both ports. As early as 2010 we can look forward to a doubling of the number of inspection lanes available at Calexico West.

Texas, and Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua; westward from that binational conurbation it crosses vast tracts of the Sonoran and Chihuahuan Desert, the Colorado River Delta, westward to the binational conurbation of San Diego and Tijuana before reaching the Pacific Ocean.

The border's total length is 3,169 km (1,969 miles), according to figures given by the International Boundary and Water Commission. It is the most frequently crossed international border in the world, with about 250 million legal crossings every year.

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 25

Cover Feature

Baja California and Sonora get connected by New Coastal Highway

by Beverly Arrowood and Brenda Judy

Aerial image of the New Coastal Highway.

The New Coastal Highway is the RED highlight area on the map.

26 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Cover Feature

T

C OVER STORY

he long-awaited Coastal Highway markets in Mexico. Meaning that Puerto Peñasco is connecting Puerto Peñasco to El Golfo now one of the high-end vacation destinations for officially opened on December 17, U.S. tourists and the new highway now provides a 2008, with an inaugural speech and ribbon-cutting faster and more direct route for our U.S. neighbors, especially Californians. ceremony by Governor Bours.

The potential for tourists from San Diego alone is Access to the communities along the coast has always been somewhat difficult and time overwhelming. With a population of nearly 1.5 million consuming. However, the opening of the new that are looking for a weekend getaway or extended Coastal Highway has made access a breeze. The vacation, they can now be in Puerto Peñasco in just highway stretches approximately 83 miles from El five hours.

Highway expansion is also currently under Golfo to Puerto Peñasco and will make life better for Mexican commuters and tourists alike. No longer construction from Puerto Peñasco to Kino Bay will travelers need to take the Mexican 2 highway and San Carlos. Several miles have already been completed near Desemboque. through Sonoyta.

When completed, this The new highway runs along This scenic coastal 375-mile highway will extend the top coastline of the beautiful route not only makes from El Golfo all the way to the Sea of Cortes. This scenic southern tip of Sonora, allowing coastal route not only makes drive times shorter (an for growth and tourism along drive times shorter (an estimated the entire coastline. estimated two hours two hours shorter from Mexicali If you want to expand your to Peñasco), you virtually have shorter from Mexicali to vacation beyond the normal ocean views the entire trip. With tourist attractions, it is now an average water temperature of Peñasco), you virtually easier and faster. Exploring 77 degrees, the Sea of Cortes have ocean views the Mexico by car is not only a hosts over 6,000 species of great way to get from place marine life and some of the most entire trip. to place, but you can take the spectacular beaches in Mexico.

The highway has three beautiful rest stops time to see all the wonders northwest Mexico has complete with palapas and stories about the Pinacate to offer.

A large part of the fun of visiting Puerto Peñasco Biosphere as well as the Biosphere in Baja Norte.

The stories are in both English and Spanish and is getting there. No matter if you live in Mexico or are include pictures of the different species of animals just on vacation, come experience for yourself the magnificent new stretch of coastal highway along that traverse the desert and mountains.

For those who aren’t aware, Puerto Peñasco is the Sea of Cortez.

Enjoy the road—Enjoy Mexico! known to be one of the fastest growing real estate

Approximate Drive Times From Puerto Peñasco, you can get to El Golfo in about 1.25 hours, El Centro in 3.5 hours, San Diego in 5.25 hours and Yuma in 2.5 hours.

From El Centro, Yuma is approximately 1 hour and San Diego is 1.75 hours.

El Golfo to Yuma is 1.25 hours.

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 27

Rosarito Beach, Baja California

Rosarito Beach, Baja California

TOLL BOOTH

Pa c i fi c Oc e an

Rosarito Norte Exit

GAS

TOLL RO

Pemex

AD

Villa Floresta Lienzo Charro

Via de las Olas Calzada del M

Mexicali Tijuana La Paz

Rosarito Centro Exit

Via del Mar

FREE RO AD

Via de las Play as La Fuente

Ensenada Jose Amaro

ar

Ave. Machado GAS

E. Zapata Cardenas

TOLL ROAD TO ENSENADA

Cinco de may o Ebano

M. Balbachano

GAS

Acacias

Av. J.J. Rosseau

L Oritz

Av. Mar Mediterraneo

Abeto Alamo

Roble Encino Nogal Palma Magnolia

Rosarito Sur Exit

FREE ROAD

Av. Mar de Norte

Eulaipto

Cleofas Ruiz

Puerto Nuevo

Puerto Nuevo Exit Cuenca Lechera Exit

TOLL BOOTH

Rancho Mision Descanso

28 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

Playas de Rosarito, or Rosarito Beach as it is referred to in English, is a city in the Mexican state of Baja California and is its own municipality. It is located between the Pacific Ocean and coastal foothills, just 20 minutes south of the U.S. border in Tijuana and is a popular destination for tourist, snowbirds and expatriates from the United States.

GETTING TO ROSARITO Toll-Road Directions: Immediately after entering Mexico from San Ysidro merge into the right lane and follow the signs to the PLAYAS DE TIJUANAROSARITO. You’ll see the border fence to your right as you travel west.

Take the right turn-off to the road ENSENADA CUOTA. As you merge, get over into the left lane and stay there. A toll fee of approximately $2.35 US dollars will take you all the way to Rosarito Beach.

ATM/GETTING CASH Banamex, Bancomer and Bital have 24-hour-a-day ATMs that accept most U.S. bank cards all along the Tijuana - Rosarito Beach - Ensenada corridor. Only pesos are dispensed from these machines. You can get dollars from an HSBC ATM. Your account in the U.S. is charged that day’s Peso rate of exchange.

Rosarito Beach, Baja California

ROSARITO DIRECTORY Happy family (mother, father and 2 years son) on the beach.

ICON Descriptions

Photo by Maria Bobrova

#

- Pool/Spa

- Accept Credit Cards

- Pet Friendly

- Wi-Fi / Internet

- Serves Breakfast

- Kitchen/Restaurant

- Beer/Spirits

- Map Number

- Reader Poll Winner

WHERE TO EAT American Food La Bamba ............................................... 661-100-2560 Coffee & Breakfast Las Brisas Coffee........................................... 661-612-2546

French Chabert’s....................................................... 661-612-1111 Le Cousteau................................................... 661-612-2655 Italian Portofino........................................................ 661-612-2950

Your account will also have about a $3.50 service fee deducted. Bital also has a ATM machine (Pesos only) in the AM/PM 24 hours Pemex Station on south end of Rosarito Beach.

WHILE IN ROSARITO BEACH Rosarito Beach offers a large variety of places to stay and thing to do. Rosarito has more than 900 hotel rooms from 25 resorts, hotels & motels and luxurious spas and incredible shopping in any of the Artisan shops with some of Mexico’s finest leather goods, furniture, wrought iron, pottery, marble and traditional Mexico crafts.

Rosarito offers 20 miles of white sandy beaches with endless activities including golfing, surfing, fishing, horse back riding, or relax in spa, ATV riding, visit Fox Studio Baja, or enjoy any of the many nightclubs. Rosarito is also the host to the third largest bike ride in North America, held twice annually.

Rosarito Beach restaurants offer a culinary paradise of international cuisines. You can choose from traditional Mexican cooking, sensational seafood, delicious steak dinners, and a broad selection of other specialty American, Chinese, French and Italian cuisines. Be sure to visit the wellknown lobster village, Puerto Nuevo is just fifteen minutes south of Rosarito, a tourist and culinary destination.

Whether staying for vacation or life, you will enjoy Rosarito Beach.

Mexican Calafia........................................................... 661-614-9815 El Patio.......................................................... 661-612-2950 La Cazuela Del Mole....................................... 661-612-2910 Magaña’s La Misión Restaurant Bar............... 646-155-0586 Maria Sabina.................................................. 661-613-1532 The Palm Grill (Puerto Nuevo)........................ 661-614-1203

R OSAR I TO BEA C H

Chinese Dragon Del Mar.............................................. 661-612-0604 Costa Azul..................................................... 661-612-1189 Palacio Royal................................................. 661-612-1412

Pizza Virgilio’s Pizza................................................ 661-612-1210 Steak & Seafood Bobby’s Baja by the Sea................................ 661-614-1135 El Nido........................................................... 661-612-1431 La Guerita Restaurant . .................................. 661-612-1019 Los Pelicanos................................................ 661-612-1757 Villa Ortega’s................................................. 661-614-0706 Vince’s Old Pier ................................ 661-612-1253

WHERE TO STAY RV Park/Parque de RV Baja Season RV Parks.................................... 661-628-6128 Popotla R.V. Park........................................... 661-612-1501

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 29

Rosarito Beach, Baja California

WHERE TO STAY

Rosarito Beach Bed and Breakfast, Pay For Two, Stay Three Nights

Oceanfront B & B Escape: Your Home Away from Home Carol Heath and Michelle Meyn, Innkeepers, have converted a beautiful San Antonio del Mar beachfront private and secure gated home into a spacious bed and breakfast featuring two master bedrooms with their own private bathrooms. The three bedrooms each have their own distinctive themes, Cape Cod, Egyptian and Marilyn Monroe Fifties.

Rates range from $125 on weekdays to $175 on weekends and the luxury suite, with its private fireplace, from $175 to $225 and there is no minimum stay requirement. Rate includes full breakfast served from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. and special arrangements can be made for lattes, mochas, etc., as well as the “Afternoon Delight” of wine and chips. Amenities include Egyptian cotton sheets, plush pillows and onsite DVD player, satellite/cable TV, fireplace, Wi-Fi, washer/dryer.

by Carlos Durán

Once you’ve been pampered with breakfast and the backdrop of ocean surf, you’ll be ready to take your Valentine to some of the many area attractions, such as sand dunes for ATVs, FOX Studios, fishing, horseback riding, golfing and wine tasting tours can be arranged as well. And of course, shopping, shopping and more shopping. Shopping tours can also be arranged. And don’t forget the many fine gourmet dining opportunities that Rosarito has to offer, such as Vince’s Old Pier for seafood and La Estancia for fine Mexican gourmet cuisine, as well as La Bamba 50’s Dinner for the best homemade desserts in Baja as well as outstanding traditional American dishes.

For reservations call (619) 272-9151 or visit www.rosaritobeachbedandbreakfast.com.

Photos by Carlos Duran

30 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

Rosarito Beach, Baja California

DIALING 800 NUMBER: 800 DIALING to the US From Mexico (dial 001+) To Dial USA 800................................ dial 880 To Dial USA 866................................ dial 883 To Dial USA 877................................ dial 882 To Dial USA 888................................ dial 881 IMPORTANT NUMBERS: MX 411 (Spanish only)............................ 040 Tourist Assistance Hotline....................... 076 Green Angels (MX toll Free).1-800-903-0092 Worldwide Emergency No.for Mobile is.. 112 Emergencies................................060 & 066 Sky Medical (from Mexico).001-866-805-9624 Air-E-Vac ....................... 001-880-321-9522

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Motel Camino Inn.................................................... 661-612.2803 Hotel / Condo Baja Rentals.......................................www.BajaCatalina.com Bobby’s Baja by the Sea ..................... 661-614-1135 Costa Azul ............................................. 800-800-9632 Grand Baja Resort (Puerto Nuevo) ................................................ 877-315-1002

BUSINESS DIRECTORY A-Z CHURCH Rosarito Beach Christian Church ................... 661-613-1985 DOG GROOMERS D’ Groomer Dog Grooming

...................... 661-100-6218

Elevators/Elevadores To The Top Elevators...................................... 661-614-1434 FINANCING/FINANCIAMIENTO Baja Lending Company............ ......................686-576-0653 FISH/PESCADERĂ?A Vince's Old Peir ............................................. 661-612-1253

R OSAR I TO BEA C H

DIALING INSTRUCTIONS: USA to MX Cel Phone: 011+52+1+Area Code+(Tel #) USA to Mexico: 011+52+Area Code+(Tel #) Mexico to USA: 001+Area Code+(Tel #) MX Landline to MX Cell Phone: 045 or 044+Area Code+(Tel #) MX Cell Phone to MX Landline: Area Code+(Tel #)

HOTEL/HOTEL See WHERE TO STAY at the beginning of each city section.

INSURANCE Lynda’s Insurance (English speaking)............. 686-577-1622 INTERNET Click On .................................................. 661-614-0513 MAILING SERVICES Click On .................................................. 661-614-0513 RENTALS/RENTAS See WHERE TO STAY section REAL ESTATE AGENTS/AGENTES DE BIENES RA�CES Nicolas Santos (Rosarito)............................... 619-917-5695 Laura Miller.................................................... 619-888-6171 REAL ESTATE/BIENES RA�CES Ensenada Remax........................................... 661-612-1132 RESTAURANTS/RESTAURANTES See WHERE TO EAT section Call to list you business., $5 per month.....686-230-9933 RV PARKS See WHERE TO STAY section REAL ESTATE SERVICES Baja Closing & Escrow Services..................... 760-494-7053 utilities/empresas de servicios públicos CFE .................................. 612-143 0064 or 612-142 0237 TELMEX . ...................................................... 612-142 0001 CALIGAS........................................................ 612-142 0122

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 31

Rosarito Beach, Baja California

Rosarito Beach Scene

There are reports of many restaurants and businesses closing on Revolution and other neighborhoods in Tijuana due to the decline of the number of visitors. Have no fear, there are lots of places still left for good grub in Rosarito, though a few have chosen to hibernate until spring. The popular The Palms at Cantamar is taking a break as is La Misión Restaurant and La Palapa de Jose are all going to wait the winter out before opening again in a month or so. But many are still open and some, such as Medio Camino Half Way House where Chef

sin título

Chef Johnny, Medio Camino Restaurant, the Half Way House

32 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

by Carlos Durán

Johnny has expanded their hours (open until midnight) and are working seven days a week to fill the gap for those in hibernation, offering $5 breakfasts that includes coffee and $7 complete lunches. Of course, the gourmet dinner menu is always available.

Another place for great bites that has recently won Best Bar and Best Place to Stay in Mexico Living’s Best of 2008 is Bobby’s Baja by the Sea at km 43. A wide-ranging menu that includes Italian dishes and pizza, steaks, seafood, sandwiches and a French Onion soup that is to die for.

In town there are many great places to wine and Page 2 of 2 dine such as La Estancia and Susan and William’s La Bamba, and for a wide variety of seafood choices at the Pimentel’s Vince’s Old Pier. Some may remember the lunch diner at km 35, A r c e l ’ s Restaurant, from a couple of years back. They were located, for awhile, on Cinco de Mayo but have recently moved to the building that houses Bonanova Hospital along Benito Juarez Blvd.

Downstairs and in the back of the building where you can find parking too. And right across Juarez Blvd. from the hospital is the downtown version of Ruben’s Bar and Grill, aptly named Ruben’s Jr. that specializes in Mexican food at very affordable prices.

They offer a variety of Mexican dishes for under $5.

Watch for karaoke nights in the near future at Ruben’s Jr. too. Another good choice for typical Mexican fare is Los Arcos Restaurant located at the entrance of the Rosarito Beach Hotel. The Sanchez-Gutierrez family has been feeding locals and tourists there for many years.

Any finds or suggestions from our readers are welcome for future articles. Please send your personal choices of places to wine and dine in Rosarito to carlos@mexicoliving.info.

R OSAR I TO BEA C H

Rosarito Beach, Baja California

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 33

Ensenada, Baja California

34 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Ensenada, Baja California

Ensenada, Baja California

E

nsenada is the third-largest city in the Mexican state of Baja California. It is located 116 km (about 70 miles) south of the San Diego/Tijuana border crossing. The city had a 2005 census population of 260,075. Ensenada is also the municipal seat of Ensenada. Located in the Bahía de Todos Santos — an inlet of the Pacific Ocean — Ensenada is an important commercial and fishing port as well as a cruise ship stop. The city is backed by small mountain ranges. Due to its location on the Pacific Ocean and Mediterranean latitude, the weather tends to be mild year-round.

GETTING TO ENSENADA

Getting to Ensenada has never been easier or faster. A US driver license is valid in Mexico, so you Mexican auto insurance is required by law if you drive in Mexico.

Taking The Bus from San Diego is another option.

Take the San Diego Trolley to San Ysidro, then walk across the border to the small Plaza Viva bus station.

ABC (Autotransportes Baja California) buses depart for Ensenada every half hour beginning 6AM - 9:30PM, you can call 1-52-(664)683-5681; fare is approx. $6.50dlls 1-way.

Greyhound Bus Lines (U.S. toll free: 800-231-2222).

Greyhound Lines will take you to Tijuana’s Central Bus Terminal (Central Camionera) from anywhere in the US and connect to any major Mexican bus line, including ABC. If you Arrive By Ship to the Ensenada port terminal, which holds two ships and each pier has shopping for Mexican curios and other items. Most cruise tourists arrive on the three and four night cruises Expect to pay about $2 for the five-minute ride to downtown shopping.

GETTING AROUND TOWN

ENSENADA

Carnival Cruise Elation at dock on a foggy Ensenada morning.

The healthiest and most personal way is ON FOOT. Ensenada is a great city for getting around on your own energy. Most of the shopping is at sea level and easy to navigate with all numbered streets running north and south and celebrity named streets running east and west.

TAKING THE BUS if you want some adventure, or want a great sightseeing opportunity. Fare is 7 pesos ($0.65). Buses are called “micro” instead of “bus” or Autobuse. Bus Terminal 646-121-2982 al 87 Calzada Lazaro Cardenas & Rio Alamar La Mesa.

IN A TAXI is a great way to get from point A to point B, Taxis Amarillos (Yellow Taxi) is available 24 hours with local and unlimited service available; they will drive you anywhere. Ave. Lopez Mateos & Miramar. English spoken. 646-178-3475.

Try RENTING A CAR if you want to get out and explore on your own. Fiesta Rent-A-Car at 646-1763344, located at 1442 Blvd. Lazaro Cardenas or RentaCar Ensenada at 646-176-3344, located at 582 Lopez Mateos.

LODGING & ACCOMMODATION

Ensenada has the accommodations to meet any level of comfort or amenities. Prices can range depending on the time of year from $30 to $250+ depending on the hotel. The best hotels in Ensenada are located to the north and south of town along the beach and are not within walking distance from downtown shopping and attractions. Taxi and shuttles are available in some locations.

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 35

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Ensenada, Baja California

New Oaxacan Restaurant Opens near Ensenada

by Steve Dryden

ICON Descriptions

- Pool/Spa

flavors of Oaxaca are magical and unique because we use hierba santa with a subtle aroma and with a strong flavors in most of our local dishes." Moles are very time consuming, labor intensive and require many ingredients—with as many as 30 ingredients and 10 different varieties of chiles.

Although Oaxaca is famous their mole, there are many other culinary wonders to offer the world. Cocido is an amazing stew usually made with beef, pork, chicken, garbanzos, string beans, chayote, squash, cabbage, carrots, "guineo" bananas, often seasoned with cilantro and hierbabuena herb, accompanied by rice and chili sauce. Tortillas clayudas are large, thick, leathery tortillas and totopos are very large, perforated, toasted tortillas. Dessert items include alegr’a which is toasted, popped and sweetened amaranth seeds.

Capirotada is a popular dish, especially during Lent, and is a white-bread pudding with various combinations of ingredients, such as cheese, tomato, peanuts, raisins, and biznaga cactus, all covered with syrup. Of course, you must experience nieves (homemade ice creams) like vanilla, rose petal and burnt milk with prickly pear.

For wine and food lovers, one amenity here is that the restaurant can access vino from the wine cellar at Viento. They have one of the biggest selections of Baja California wines at value pricing. In addition, they have a nice selection of national beers, mescal and organic Oaxacan coffee. A full liquor bar will come this summer, just in time to enjoy cocktails on their scenic oceanfront deck overlooking Todos Santos Islands and Ensenada Bay. They're open Wed–Sat for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Sundays open for breakfast and lunch.

ENSENADA

Viento, the oceanside condominium project in El Sauzal is the location for one of the newest restaurants in the Ensenada area. This cozy, ocean view culinary operation is located about seven miles north of town and three miles south of the last toll station in San Miguel on scenic Highway One. The restaurant owners, Laura Soledad Lopez Mendieta and her husband Salvador Moises Fuentes Roldan are from Oaxaca with a goal of introducing their Oaxacan provincial lifestyle, traditions, old customs and family cooking styles at their new seaside food venue.

According to Laura, "We'll focus on an everchanging menu of Oaxacan cuisine, with our main goal of offering fine food, using the best products shipped directly from Oaxaca. We feature local seafood dishes based on a fusion between Baja California Norte and Oaxaca without compromising either." Their menu offers artisan cuisine that includes: cuichiles stuffed with quesillo (cheese) in tomatillo sauce, chile rellenos stuffed with minilla and chapulines (toasted grasshoppers), empanadas de amarillo (turnover filled with yellow sauce), salsita de gusanos, totopos or oven toasted corn chips, quesillo (string cheese), and chorizo bien frito or fried spicy sausage.

Black mole or Mole Negro is the king of mole in Oaxaca, still prepared in artisan style, smoky and roasted, while Puebla mole is more bitter and commercial. Mole Negro, the most famous of many moles is usually made with turkey. Laura adds, "The

PLACES TO EAT

Costa Azul . ......................................646-154-2540 ............................646-178-3210 Hussong’s Cantina Magana’s........................................................646-155-0586 ............................................646-176-3720 Haliotis Steak & Seafood El Rey Sol.......................................................646-178-1601 . ...................................646-176-1044 Las Cazuelas ...............................646-172-5833 La Finca de Ensenada .....................646-174-0807 La Embotelladora Vieja . ................646-178-3271 La Mansion de Ensenada ......................................638-174-0969 La Vendimia

Coffee & Breakfast ......................................646-175-7320 La Casa Antigua Chinese . .....................................646-178-2516 Bamboo Garden Italian Gondolieri Ristorante Italiano...........................646-174-0976 Mexican Amigos Cantina...............................................619-917-5696 Casa Mar Restaurant Bar.................................646-174-0417 www.restaurantcasamar.com . ..................................646-108-4702 Brisa del Mar .........................646-176-4900 Broncos Steakhouse

RV Park/Parque de RV Mona Lisa RV Park..........................................646-177-5100 Popotla R.V. Park.............................................661-612-1501 Motels/Moteles ..........................................646-176-1333 America Motel . ...........................................646-176-3245 Rudis Motel Ensenada Inn..................................................646-176-1361 Hotel El Joker..................................................646-177-5151 Posada Don Fernando.....................................646-177-0127 Azteca Inn.......................................................646-177-4015

#

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PLACES TO STAY

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 37

Ensenada, Baja California WINERIES

Ensenada sits in the heart of a wine country that is widely regarded as the best in Mexico.

Baja California Wine Country is blessed with some of the most ideal Mediterranean climate for grape growing. Nearly ninety percent of all Mexican wine grapes are grown in Baja California within 120 miles of the west coast, in three wineproducing areas; San Antonio de las Minas (which includes the Valleys of Guadalupe and Calafia), San Vincente Valley, and Santo Tomás Valley.

California wine connoisseurs are making this a regular trip, complete with tours and tasting, Baja California is producing wines of the same quality and consistency as some of its northern neighbors.

38 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Three Women Winery is a Uni

by Steve Dryden

Three Women Winery or Tres Mujeres is a favorite wine tasting adventure for those who love artisan wine, country hospitality and intimate conversations with the winemakers. This cozy little winery is located on Highway 3, along the Tecate-Ensenada wine route near km marker 87. Drive between the rock columns at the entrance to the drive and follow the road to the left towards the foothills. Don’t be confused by the winery and vineyards to the right, keep going to the left another half mile past the Three Women tile sign and you’ll find some wonderful people and excellent handmade wines. The big news is that all the artisan wines sold there are only $20 USD. Eva Cotero Altamirano, Ivette Vaillard, and Laura Mac Gregor Garcia are the original Three Women or Tres Mujeres. Today there are six women and two “token” men involved at the cooperative winery. Eva is a top research oceanographer in Mexico and has a cult following for her premium handcrafted The Cabern wines. Currently she creates complements three excellent wines: 100% Tempranillo—Besod’eva 2006, Grenache we 100% Cabernet Sauvignon—Ibi, wines to be d and 100% Merlot—Isme. She’s increased her bottle aging to one young age, lig year with great results, creating fruit forward. superior quality.

Laura is getting very serious my clients wa about her craft. In fact, this year what most of she’s taken classes in enology and viticulture from UABC in my artisan w Ensenada where she’s received her most recent certification. Her two newest premium wines, 100% Tempranillo and 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, are excellent and fully reflect her intense focus on creating high quality artisan wine.

Ivette currently handcrafts 2006 and 2007 vintage wines from Cabernet Sauvignon and Grenache, and Terrazas and Grenache. She states, “The Cabernet Sauvignon complements the old vine Grenache well.

I craft my wines to be drinkable at a young age, light in body and fruit forward. I listen to what my clients want, and this is what most of them desire in my artisan wine.” Her wines are popular with many guests who are looking for a light-bodied, easy to drink wine that will pair nicely with most foods.

One of the men in this female wine cooperative is Aime Desponds, a former gourmet chef in Mexico

“

Ensenada, Baja California

ique Venue

City and in Tustin, California. Having built a cob home of clay, under the warm sun of Valle de Guadalupe, he’s designed an appropriate wine label called Sol Y Barro or Sun and Clay. His 2007 blend of Grenache, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petite Sarah is stunning!

Currently his “bottled treasures of delight” can be purchased only at the winery and for a limited period of time due to a small, select production.

Tres Mujeres winery is open daily from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. net Sauvignon You’ll have to visit the winery to find and purchase their s the old vine wines, but it’s well worth the effort as the wines are ell. I craft my very good and the hospitality drinkable at a unsurpassed.

ght in body and I listen to what ant, and this is f them desire in wine.”

ENSENADA

3 Women l-r, Laura, Eva and Ivette

Steve Dryden is a wine, food and travel writer living in Guadalupe Valley where he guides individual and small group wine tours. He books wine country lodging and can be reached at sbdryden@ hotmail.com

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 39

Ensenada, Baja California

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40 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Ensenada, Baja California

DIALING 800 NUMBER: 800 DIALING to the US From Mexico (dial 001+) To Dial USA 800................................ dial 880 To Dial USA 866................................ dial 883 To Dial USA 877................................ dial 882 To Dial USA 888................................ dial 881 IMPORTANT NUMBERS: MX 411 (Spanish only)............................ 040 Tourist Assistance Hotline....................... 076 Green Angels (MX toll Free).1-800-903-0092 Worldwide Emergency No.for Mobile is.. 112 Emergencies................................060 & 066 Sky Medical (from Mexico).001-866-805-9624 Air-E-Vac ....................... 001-880-321-9522

BUSINESS DIRECTORY A-Z Aeropuerto/Airport Aeropuerto ................................................... 646-273-1984 Art Gallery Garery Art & Stuff.......................................... 646-175-8859 DEVELOPMENT MANAGEMENT/MANEJO DE FRACCIONAMIENTOS .........................1-800-434-2252 Baja Mar Country Club FINANCING/FINANCIAMIENTO Baja Lending Company............ ......................686-576-0653 HEALTH SPA La Fonda........................................................ 646-155-0394 HOTEL/HOTEL See Rosarito/Ensenada Lodging Guide at the beginning of each city section.

INSURANCE Lynda’s Insurance (English speaking).............686-577-1622

ENSENADA

DIALING INSTRUCTIONS: USA to MX Cel Phone: 011+52+1+Area Code+(Tel #) USA to Mexico: 011+52+Area Code+(Tel #) Mexico to USA: 001+Area Code+(Tel #) MX Landline to MX Cell Phone: 045 or 044+Area Code+(Tel #) MX Cell Phone to MX Landline: Area Code+(Tel #)

Hotel Best Western El Cid.........................................646-178-2401 Corona Hotel ..........................................646-176-0901 Costa Azul . ...................................800-800-9632 Grand Baja Resort (Puerto Nuevo) . ...............................................877-315-1002 Hotel Coral & Marina .........646-175-0000 Hotel La Fonda .........................646-155-0007 Posada El Rel Sol . ...................................646-178-1601 San Nicolas Hotel............................................646-176-1901 Oxidox Cafe....................................................646-178-8827 Rentals Baja Rentals.......................................www.BajaCatalina.com

MEDICAL SERVICES/SERVICIOS MÉDICOS ISSSTE .........................................................646-176-2230 IMSS ............................................................646-120-7771 Centro de Salud.............................................646-152-1371 MUSIC/MUSICA Pharmacy Regia & House of Music................646-174-0557 Professional Services PSN Mexico Professional Services.................646-178-8280 Legal/Immigration Assist FM3/FM2/FMT Import documentation www.psnmexico.com POLICE/POLICÍA Policia Ministerial...........................................646-176-3636 Policia Federal Caminos................................ 646-683-8040 Policia Federal Preventiva ..............................646-176-2579 Prefectura Naval.......................................... 469-0376/2948 public transportation/el transporte público Terminal de Buses..........................................646-224-1041 RENTALS/RENTAS See Rosarito/Ensenada Lodging Guide section REAL ESTATE AGENTS/AGENTES DE BIENES RAÍCES Nicolas Santos (Rosarito)...............................619-917-5695 RESTAURANTS/RESTAURANTES RV PARKS See PLACES TO STAY section REAL ESTATE SERVICES Baja Closing & Escrow Services.....................760-494-7053 utilities/empresas de servicios públicos CFE ..................................612-143 0064 or 612-142 0237 TELMEX . ......................................................612-142 0001 CALIGAS........................................................612-142 0122 Winery .............................646-171-7070 Vinos Fuentes Winery

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 41

San Felipe, Baja California

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IMPORTANT NUMBERS Emergency Help (Like USA 911) 066 Airport 686-577-1368 Civil Protection Unit 686-577-1433 Comision Federal de Electricidad 071 District Attorney 686-577-1110 Fire Dept.

686-577-1182 Health Dept.

686-577-1521 arina a t n a ri C a Cata Sant anta e Hospital 686-577-0117 S d e n nd Misio Misio Calle Calle Immigration Office 686-577-1083 Mayor’s Office 686-577-1021 Police Local 686-577-1134 Police Federal 686-577-1045 Police State Judicial 686-577-1203 e p dalu Gua Port Captain e686-577-1577 n de p HARBOR io is lu M ada Red Cross ion de Gu 686-577-1544 HARBOR is M Hwy 5 to Airport, Secretary of Tourism 686-577-1155 South Campos Telnor 686-577-1000 & Puertocitos Hwy 5 to Airport, Old Road South Campos Tourism Dept.

686-577-1155 South Campos Marina Resort & Puertocitos & Puertocitos Tourist Assistance (Green Angels) 078 Old Road South Campos Marina Reso 42 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico & Puertocitos Mis

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The monument at the entrance to San Felipe was built in 1980 to represent the commitment of the four states around the Sea of Cortez (Baja California Norte, Baja California Sur, Sinaloa, and Sonora) to promote tourism and the regions beauty and charm.

San Felipe, Baja California

San Felipe, Baja California

El Centro, CA....................................... 137/220 Los Angeles, CA................................... 350/563 Phoenix, AZ......................................... 375/603 San Diego, CA...................................... 236/380 Tucson, AZ........................................... 446/717 Yuma, AZ............................................. 184/296

S

an Felipe is a small fishing village that historically has been economically dependent on fishing, however today tourism and real estate provide the economic base. Even as it grows into the next century with four-lane highways, multi-pump fueling centers that shines bright even after the moon has drop behind the majestic mountains it will remain a small fishing village in its heart and soul.

Today San Felipe is maturing into a sophisticated resort community with destination resort developments, luxury condos, fine restaurants, sport fishing charters and world-class off-road adventures.

San Felipe sits on the Gulf of California (Sea of Cortez), 118 miles (190 km) south of the US border and within the municipality of Mexicali.

Directly behind San Felipe to the west is Sierra San Pedro Martír, the tallest mountains in Baja, forming a protective wall from Pacific storms. San Felipe has 23foot tides (7-meters) exposing a kilometer or more of ocean floor. One of the largest tidal bores in the world due in part to the Colorado River delta to the north.

GETTING TO SAN FELIPE

If you are Driving your car or a rental (you MUST purchase Mexican Auto Insurance) to San Felipe is straightforward, because all roads lead south. The Mexicali/San Felipe highway is a breath-taking visual experience from wetlands to moonscapes to vistas

that fall off the horizon. Most car rentals in El Centro, San Diego, and Yuma Airports sell Mexican Auto Insurance.

The San Felipe International Airport has a runway of 4850 feet that is in excellent condition. The available oriented 310° and 130°, coordinates 30°57’ lat. 114°51’ long. The radio control tower operators are bilingual.

ATM/GETTING CASH

SAN FEL I PE

DRIVING DISTANCES (Mi/Km)

Because of the close proximity of Northwest Mexico to the USA, most invoices, and receipts at restaurants, hotels, gas stations, etc., will be in both dollars and pesos. It is a good idea to convert your money into pesos for local purchases. You will likely save money. ATMs at Banamex Bank on Chetumal, Bancomer Bank on Mar de Cortez and Chetumal or AM/PM on Mar Caribe Sur.

THINGS TO DO

San Felipe offers endless things to do and or not do depending on your personal goals.

San Felipe beaches extend north and south for over 50 miles of shoreline to explore. Off Road adventures, await you beyond every horizon, which is why San Felipe is home to the SCORE International Baja 250. The desert terrain surrounding San Felipe is vast and offers incredible trails and exploration for ATV’s, dirt bike or off-road vehicle. Just south of San Felipe are extensive sand dunes ideal for buggies and rails. ATV Rentals are also available.

The Valley of the Giants: The natural reserve of the thousand-year-old Cardon Cactus has become a major attraction Shopping, San Felipe offers great shopping for bargain, souvenirs, arts and much more. Much of the shopping can be found downtown on the Malecon, Mar de Cortez, or Chetumal leading into town. However, all around town you’ll find great finds.

Get Getmore moreinfo: info:www.mexicoliving.info www.mexicoliving.info - 43

San Felipe, Baja California

The Lighthouse Restaurant San Felipe’s Romantic Hot Spot

Lighthouse Restaurant owners Tim and Mari Outzen.

Photo by Robin Waters

by Lisa Shannon

The Outzen Family came to San Felipe in April 2007 and opened the restaurant a month later. The family started vacationing here about a year earlier and fell in love with the warmth of the Sea of Cortez. Although Tim and Mari have not had much time for community efforts, they do participate in things like the Lions Club’s Turkey Trot, Rotary’s Taste of San Felipe and other charitable events. They hosted Casa de Fe’s charity luncheon on January 25, and will be hosting both a pre and post party for the upcoming Blues and Arts Fiesta in March. They offer amazing shrimp meals and are quickly becoming an international favorite with items like Sushi, American hamburgers and steaks, and Italian dishes, as well as authentic Mexican cuisine. In addition to great food and drinks, Tim tries to bring in the best entertainment San Felipe has to offer: karaoke on Tuesdays with Sing-Out Sisters with Chuy (San Felipe’s Best Karaoke 2008) and live music Friday (local artists) and Saturday nights with Agave Blues (San Felipe’s Best Band 2007). You are sure to find every variety of music to accompany your dining experience. The restaurant’s most appealing feature is its location. It sits on the hill by the lighthouse

44 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

with an amazing view of the city.

The Lighthouse Restaurant was voted Best Happy Hour 2008! Specials coming up include their anniversary in May, which is also their farewell to the snowbirds. You will find specials throughout the month of May to celebrate the business and the fantastic population of winter-dwellers, in appreciation of their patronage. The Outzens were fortunate to come across the business, moved in and made the Lighthouse what it is today: a thriving, romantic place for all of us to enjoy.

Some menu items include: Lighthouse Philly Cheese Steak for Mex$70 (lunch 10 a.m.–3 p.m.), Prime Rib – Petite 8oz (Mex$180) or Grande 12oz (Mex$210), San Felipe Punch 20oz (Mex$60). Visit them on the web for upcoming specials and entertainment at www.sanfelipelighthouselounge.com or call (686) 577-2540 for information and reservations for large parties.

San Felipe, Baja California

SAN FELIPE DIRECTORY ICON Descriptions

#

- Pool/Spa

- Accept Credit Cards

- Pet Friendly

- Wi-Fi / Internet

- Serves Breakfast

- Kitchen/Restaurant

- Beer/Spirits

- Map Number

- Reader Poll Winner

PLACES TO EAT American Los Arcos ..................... 686-577-2585 Baja Java ............................. 686-577-2465 Beach Bar & Grill ............ 686-576-0454 Blowin’ Smoke BBQ ......................... 686-576-0710 .686-114-7735

Burgers Baja Burger....................................... 686-577-2465 Chilis & Burgers................................ 686-577-6196 Mexican Beach Bar & Grill ............ 686-576-0454 El Club.............................................. 686-577-1175 La Palapa Bar & Grill ....... 686-200-4083 Mi Casa es Tu Casa........................... 686-577-1495 Rancho Alegre ................. 686-576-0648

SAN FEL I PE

Breakfast The Bistro “Java Jitters”

Rice & Beans ............................... 686-577-1770 Rosita ................................... 686-577-1903 Pizza Fatboy’s ...................... 686-577-4092 Los Arcos - Happy Jackass .... 686-577-2585 Popeye’s Pizza.................................. 686-577-1122 Rabbit Pizza Delivery......................... 686-577-0987 Spanish Miguel & Paco

........................ 686-111-2257

Steak & Seafood Al’s Backstreet Cantina . ........ 686-577-1580 Green House..................................... 686-181-6358 El Nido . ...................................... 686-577-1028 Lighthouse Restaurant . .... 686-577-2540 Los Arcos ............................. 686-577-2585 Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 45

San Felipe, Baja California

San Felipe Scene

What an amazing year 2008 was! There have been a lot of changes around the streets of San Felipe, but one MAJOR change in the last month is the closure of Call Margaret Realty. Glenda Rohner was awarded Best Real Estate Agent 2007 and 2008, so I expect we will be seeing her somewhere in real estate. If not, she will surely be missed. Maybe she should think about rejoining Amor Property, now officially located next to The People’s Gallery. Uria Amor and her team, Best Real Estate Broker 2007 and 2008, had two sales during the final week of 2008 in their new office. Century 21 has moved into the corner office under Baja Java, so be sure to stop in.

The recent art show, dinner and African dance expose held at a private residence in Playa de Oro brought artists from the Rosarito Beach artists’ association to spotlight their work. Amazing pieces, from paintings to sculpture adorned the house and artists were there to speak about their inspiration. Rocio Hoffman was most informative about the projects the organization is working on in Rosarito Beach with the support of Hugo Torres, mayor of Rosarito. We certainly look

46 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

by Lisa Shannon

forward to seeing the artists again when they return to San Felipe in the Spring.

Parties abounded in San Felipe for New Year’s Eve. The New Years at the Lighthouse Lighthouse had a Restaurant reservations-only dinner and live entertainment all night, as well as a celebration at 9 p.m. for the New York Ball Drop in Times Square. Allen Mojave played beautiful acoustic guitar during Agave Blues the dinner hours, and Lighthouse photos by Lisa Shannon Agave Blues rocked the house into the New Year. The Pavilion at La Ventana del Mar hosted live music of The Reflections and an awesome dinner menu. Baja Mar on the Malecon served up free margaritas every hour, and Al’s Backstreet poured free shots of Cholla Tequila—Al’s homebrew rocket fuel. Al’s also had live entertainment of Mega Force DJ! The Beach Bar at PDO had San Felipe’s Best

San Felipe, Baja California

PLACES TO STAY RV Park/Parque de RV Club de Pesca................................... 686-577-1180 Rentals Baja Bill's Property Managment......... 686-577-4014 Casey’s Place .. 686-577-1431

Property Management / Condo & Home Rentals Providing Rental income For homeowners since 1997

6,000 satisfied clients per year sun@hughes.net 577-1431 / 310 862-4928 www.SanFelipe.bz

Rancho del Sol .............. 686-231-4921 Redwagon Enterprises Services........ 686-576-0081 Seaside Shangri-La Apartment.......... 686-577-1573 Su Casa Elegante ................. 686-577-0745 Motels/Hotel Marina Resort

. .................. 686-577-1569

DIALING INSTRUCTIONS: USA to MX Cel Phone: 011+52+1+Area Code+(Tel #) USA to Mexico: 011+52+Area Code+(Tel #) Mexico to USA: 001+Area Code+(Tel #) MX Landline to MX Cell Phone: 045 or 044+Area Code+(Tel #) MX Cell Phone to MX Landline: Area Code+(Tel #)

SAN FEL I PE

Entertainment 2008, Vatos Locos, and reservationsonly dinner. WOW! The list goes on! Mac Polar Bear Dip and Nan had karaoke to ring in the New York New Year at the Los Arcos’ Happy Jackass, and Pete’s Camp had dinner and a small party; Beachcomber and Rockadile had live DJs spinning rowdy tunes long after midnight and the new Jollymon, located north of town in Plaza del Paraiso, had a New Year’s Potluck and a DJ. New Year’s Day has its share of special happenings, like the Polar Bear dips on different beaches around town: PDO had the 2nd Annual Flannigan/Tiwald Polar Bear Dip and another PBD was seen at Dave’s First Annual Club de Pesca Polar Bear Dip. Clothing was optional for all events; hence, the reason for no photos! Many city dwellers, including many Lions and Yacht Club members, joined up at the AM-PM Market/Pemex to head down to Campo Percebu on New Year’s morning, hangovers included, to party with the Lopez family and dip in the frigid water as well. Ahhhhhh. Another year gone. We can breathe a sign of relief that 2008 is over, and 2009 will be a better year for all.

Fine Dining Baja Mar Restaurant ....... 686-577-2648 The Latin Garden............................... 686-209-6369 2-Highway 5 KM 183, San Felipe, BC Pavilion Restaurant ........ 686-577-0022

DIALING 800 NUMBER: 800 DIALING to the US From Mexico (dial 001+) To Dial USA 800................................ dial 880 To Dial USA 866................................ dial 883 To Dial USA 877................................ dial 882 To Dial USA 888................................ dial 881 IMPORTANT NUMBERS: MX 411 (Spanish only)............................ 040 Tourist Assistance Hotline....................... 076 Green Angels (MX toll Free).1-800-903-0092 Worldwide Emergency No.for Mobile is.. 112 Emergencies................................060 & 066 Sky Medical (from Mexico).001-866-805-9624 Air-E-Vac ....................... 001-880-321-9522 Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 47

San Felipe, Baja California

48 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

San Felipe, Baja California

Casey’s Place

So many services under one umbrella

by Lisa Shannon Casey's Place is a family business.

operation and advertises his vacation rentals on many others, giving homeowners top exposure for their vacation properties. Desert tours make it possible to see all that the streets-only travelers miss, and a massage just brings an otherwise perfect day to a close.

This local businessman has been involved in many community efforts, including the beach and general cleanup (www.sanfelipebeach.org). He is also a member of the Lions Club, Rotary and Canaco, is a board member of the San Felipe Red Cross and does all the work for the website he gave the City of San Felipe, www.sanfelipeinfo.com. Casey says, “We have fun in our business and give back to San Felipe as we all should.”

If you would like more information about Casey’s Place or any of the services mentioned in this article, please visit www.sanfeliperental.com, email jello@ hughes.net or visit either of these websites for upcoming specials: www.sanfelipe.bz or www.SanFelipe.tv. You can also reach Casey from the U.S. toll-free by calling (866) 490-0553 or in Mexico (686) 577-1431.

SAN FEL I PE

Casey Hamlin has been in San Felipe operating Casey’s Place for over 12 years. He came to San Felipe with his son, Derek, in 1996, drawn by the mystique of the Sea of Cortez and its natural beauty. His son, now business partner, is a English-Spanish translator for the Mayor’s office and is also assisting Steven Forman with the Zero Additional Pup-ulation Project (ZAPP) to reach out to the Mexican population.

Whether you stay right at Casey’s Place or any of the other rentals in his pool, repeat customers would agree, this family-run business has hospitable staff with friendly faces to make your stay in San Felipe an enjoyable one. Casey’s hosts a variety of services, from vacation rentals and property management to desert tours and healing massage therapy. In addition, they offer professional photography, videography for your special event, sound equipment rental, as well as DJ and karaoke services. He also builds and hosts websites.

Casey’s has over 30 vacation homes in different areas of town, on the beach, to suit every need and size of party. Casey’s property management makes all that possible, helping local homeowners rent out their vacation properties. He has 114 personal websites in

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San Felipe, Baja California

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http://oceanografia.cicese.mx/predmar MAR V0.7 2006 J.I. González

50 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

San Felipe, Baja California

How I Found San Felipe, Baja California Mexico For me, it started in April 1988 over in Rosarito; we were staying at the Rosarito Beach Hotel, when Sam, the person I was traveling with, thought we should do a road trip down to Punta Colonet (a surfers' paradise) on the Pacific Ocean. So the next morning, with about $1,000, we started hitchhiking south, both of us with serious Mezcal Tequila hangovers.

We camped, stayed with local fishermen and every few days went to a hotel for a shower. A month later we ended up in Cabo San Lucas, where we both found work as electricians for two months. We then continued on to San Jose del Cabo before heading north to La Paz, Las Tunitas, Loreto. Conception Bay, Mulege, Santa Rosalia, San Francisquito, then to Bahia de los Angeles where we camped for another month—fishing, kayaking and snorkeling. We met a group that had a 100-foot sailboat in which we hitched a ride north to San Luis Gozaga Bay and on to San Felipe (Oct 1988) two days later.

You can't appreciate Baja until you see it from the Sea of Cortez. The love affair for Baja was now in my blood. After a couple weeks in San Felipe, reality set in—I had to get back to work.

The San Felipe Arches (Los Arcos) Photo by John Pack

I had been working on cruise ships and in 1994, for more adventure, I found myself working for a helicopter logging crew in the Pacific Northwest. In April 1999, I was in Big Timber, Montana, in the spring, snow on the ground covered in mud and I realized this was a young man's game and I was 42 at the time.

I called an old friend, Jason, from Los Angeles—we had worked together in real estate over the years—and asked him where the next opportunity was. He told me they just closed a deal with this guy, Pat Butler, who owned 200,000 acres on the Sea of Cortez, in San Felipe, Baja California. I told Jason to sign me up, hung up the phone and called my boss in California and asked him If I could borrow his truck for two weeks to move to Baja California. When I told him of my new adventure, he was a little surprised, but gave me his blessing. I bought my first lot in El Dorado Ranch in 2000; in 2001 built my home and moved to San Felipe.

Now, 10 years later, I am still here!

SAN FEL I PE

by Baja4Luv

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 51

San Felipe, Baja California

52 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

San Felipe, Baja California

DIALING 800 NUMBER: 800 DIALING to the US From Mexico (dial 001+) To Dial USA 800................................ dial 880 To Dial USA 866................................ dial 883 To Dial USA 877................................ dial 882 To Dial USA 888................................ dial 881 IMPORTANT NUMBERS: MX 411 (Spanish only)............................ 040 Tourist Assistance Hotline....................... 076 Green Angels (MX toll Free).1-800-903-0092 Worldwide Emergency No.for Mobile is.. 112 Emergencies................................060 & 066 Sky Medical (from Mexico).001-866-805-9624 Air-E-Vac ....................... 001-880-321-9522 BUSINESS DIRECTORY (A-Z) ACCOUNTING/CONTABILIDAD CP E&A Accounting..............................................686-577-0836

BBBS, Inc.......................................................866-329-8009 Alterations/sastre San Felipe Seamstress (Vickie Silva)...............686-175-5420 ARCHITECT/ARQUITECTO Freddy Hernandez...........................................686-946-7897 Licensed, CAD, Blue Prints, Graphic Design Rosa Lina Ramos Lazcano..............................686-184-6172 ART GALLERY Oasis Fine Art Gallery......................................686-221-1245 Andrena Joyce

ARTIST/ARTISTA .......... E-mail: andrenajoyce@yahoo.com

THANK YOU! to all that voted Andrena Joyce

Voted Best San Felipe Artist 2007 & 2008

Melody Ashley.................E-mail: melodya2004@yahoo.com Robin Waters..................................................686-115-0526 Sandy Colomb "The Gourd Lady" . ..................686-576-0384 Watercolors by Mary Lou................................686-171-5513 ATTORNEY/ABOGADO Carlos A. Martinez Monges.............................686-120-1650 Lic. Francisco Sosa Mendez............................686-577-0624

SAN FEL I PE

DIALING INSTRUCTIONS: USA to MX Cel Phone: 011+52+1+Area Code+(Tel #) USA to Mexico: 011+52+Area Code+(Tel #) Mexico to USA: 001+Area Code+(Tel #) MX Landline to MX Cell Phone: 045 or 044+Area Code+(Tel #) MX Cell Phone to MX Landline: Area Code+(Tel #)

ADULT CARE/ATENCION DE ADULTOS San Felipe Adult Living Facility.........................686-576-0661

AUTO REPAIR/REPARACIÓN DE AUTO Automotive PIT STOP......................................686-173-0424 Km 183.3 Repair & Services-All electronic & Mechanical Reasonable rates. Call Now! Panaderia Especial

BAKERY/PANADERÍA ...................................686-577-2948

BANK/BANCO BBVA Bancomer..............................................686-577-2224 Silvia Elizabeth Urbea, Preferred Customer’s Unit Ext. 13 BANDS/BANDAS Agave Blues....................................................686-184-9237 BARS/CLUBS .......................686-577-1580 Al’s Backstreet Cantina Bar Miramar . ............................................686-577-1192 Pool tables, Entertainment, And FREE WIFI Beach Bar & Grill .......................686-576-0454

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San Felipe, Baja California V Lounge .................................................707-237-1906 Fandango’s .........................................686-577-0060 JollyMon.........................................................686-213-5647

Los Arcos - Happy Jackass

................686-577-2585

BEAUTY SALONS/SALONES DE BELLEZA Hair By Nancy . ........................................686-573-2352 Lilly Ana’s Day Spot .................................686-577-6253 BUILDING MATERIALS/MATERIALES DE CONTRUCCIÓN El Dorado Construction Materials....................686-576-0317 Plumbing & Hardware Open 7 Days a week Located at KM 179 across from new Pemex station

54 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Pro-Construction.............................................686-576-0430 Building Materials, Plumbing, Paint supplies Brick Block, Wood, & Hardware. Delivery Services Call us!

Maderas de San Felipe .............................686-577-1515

San Felipe, Baja California church Mission San Felipe..........................................686-577-0877

Mission San Felipe

Non Denominational Church

(English Speaking)

2 Blocks west of the Glorietta at Chetumal and Mar de Irlanda

SUNDAY SERVICE 8:45 AM Please call 577-0877

CITY SERVICES/SERVICIOS DE LA CIUDAD District Attorney’s...........................................686-577-1110 Mayors Office.................................................686-577-1021 COFFEE & TEA/CAFÉ Y TE The Bistro (Java Jitters)..................................686-114-7735 COMPUTER SERVICES CSI - Computer & Satellite Installation.............686-577-2928

Baja Chocolate Lovers

.............................686-576-0348

Computer & Satellite Installation • Dish Network TV • Satellite Internet

686-577-2928

• Computers • DVD Rentals

shane@csibaja.com

SAN FEL I PE

CHOCOLATE/CHOCOLATE

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San Felipe, Baja California

Computing Integral Solutions...........................686-577-2370

CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT/MANEJO DE CONSTRUCCIÓN Baja 24/7 Construction & Real Estate..............686-577-6196 San Felipe Management Services....................686-576-0553 ..........686-577-0195 Sweitzer Construction Management

SWEITZER CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT COMPANY BJ Sweitzer Consultant Carlos Mora Contractor

Phone: 577-0195 USA: 011-52-686-577-0195 Email: bejota10@aol.com

Perez Construction..........................................686-576-0650 COUNSELING-THERAPY/CONSULTA TERAPÉUTICA Inner Connection.............................................686-255-5447 DELI . .......................686-577-3168 Sand & Sea Market & Deli ..........................................686-576-0369 SunDance Deli DENTIST/DENTISTA ................................686-577-0708 California Dental Spa Dr. Felix Rodriguez...........................................686-577-1919 Consultorio Dental Y de Ortodoncia ................686-577-6212

56 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Baja Nueva

San Felipe, Baja California FURNITURE/MUEBLERÍA ..............................................686-187-7795

Muebles Coloniales Rosy................................686-577-1214 GENERAL CONTRACTOR/CONTRATISTA GENERAL See HOME BUILDERS/CONTRATISTAS GLASS SHOP & GARAGE DOORS/VIDRIERA Y PUERTAS DE GARAGE Ka-Va Hermanos.............................................686-147-3145 GOLF/GOLF Kelly’s Golf Range & Snack Bar.......................686-576-0094 Las Caras de Mexico.......................................686-576-0517 Graphic Design/Diseño Gráfico GreetScape.....................................................686-188-2393

HATS/sombreros Band It............................................................ 686-123-5147

SAN FEL I PE

DEVELOPMENTS/FRACCIONAMIENTOS Casablanca.....................................................686-157-1728 Diamante Residencial......................................686-569-2347 El Dorado Ranch.............................................686-577-0015 La Perla Del Mar..............................................760-458-7602 . ...........................................686-576-0223 Playa de Oro Playa del Paraiso................................... 888-647-5292 x 704 San Marino.....................................................686-577-0611 San Rafael......................................................686-576-0223

GYNECOLOGIST/GINECÓLOGO Annel Becerra Prado.......................................686-577-6350

Discount Store El Cheap-O......................................................686-577-6263 DOCTORS/DOCTORES Dr. Victor Abasolo............... 686-577-1706 or 686-573-0174 ENTERTAINMENT/ENTRETENIMIENTO Name That Tune - Denny Flannigan..................686-576-1683 .....686-576-0047 The Singout Sisters & Chuey (Karaoke) EVENT SERVICES/servicios acontecimiento Produciones Baja............................................686-576-1683 FINANCING/FINANCIAMIENTO Baja Lending Company............. ......................686-576-0653

HEALTH FODDS Sea Star Health Food Store..............................686-577-6250 HEALTH & fitness/SALUD Y ejercicio KenSue Martial Arts........................................686-577-6023 Excerise, Taewaonndo, Mixed Martial Arts Heaven & Earth............................................... 686-182-3513 HEALTH & fitness/SALUD Y ejercicio Squats Gym

............................................. 686-125-1555

New Location!!!!

MexQuest Mortgage Corp.............. Toll Free: 1-888-257-9162 FILM DEVELOPMENT/IMPRESION DE FOTOS Fotografia Alvarez ..............................686-577-1144

More Equipment!

Aerobic Classes!

Call for more info

HOME BUILDERS/CONTRATISTAS BC Homes......................................................686-569-3730 www.bajahomes.com.mx, riccardo@bajahomes.com.mx Construcciones Luevano.................................688-576-0304

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 57

San Felipe, Baja California

READY TO BUILD IN BAJA? WE CAN BUILD YOUR BAJA DREAM HOME TO AMERICAN CODES WE DO IT ALL, FROM

SAN FELIPE

HOME BUILDERS

START TO FINISH

x ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES

General Contractor General Contractor San Felipe 686-577-0050 San Diego 001-619-920-2292 San Felipe 686-577-0050 www.sanfelipehomebuilder.com San Diego 001-619-920-2292 www.sanfelipehomebuilder.com

NEW OFFICE: Plaza Paraiso Local A-7 KM 178.5 SEE US AT OUR NEW LOCATION Carretera FederalChetumal No. 5 Mexicali-San On Calzada by the park Felipe San Felipe BC, Mexico

x CUSTOM HOMES x INTERIOR DESIGN & FURNISHINGS

8.5

E: m 17 C x PROPERTY I FF A-7 K O MANAGEMENT W cal NE so Lo ai x R arEMODELING

P zxa HOME REPAIRS a l P

Now Avaliable!

Retractable Screen Doors

NEW OFFICE OPEN Playa Bonita 38-3, Playa D’Oro, Kilometre 179. San Felipe BC MX US to MEX Cell 011-521-686-222-4507 Ian’s Cell 044-686-222-4507 58 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

San Felipe, Baja California HouSing..........................................................686-577-0810 Manuel Pacheo...............................................686-577-0745 Contractor-builder building to American standards for 20 years contact Robert Brittain at Su Casa Elegante USA 760-477-5963 M & O Construction........................................686-124-3908 Oscar Parra.....................................................686-163-6514 Oscar Perez....................................................686-120-6506 Perez Construction..........................................686-236-4927

INTERIOR DESIGN/DISEÑO INTERIOR Baja Nueva.....................................................686-211-4676 INTERNET CAFE/CAFE DE INTERNET Soluciones Integrales en Computacions...........686-577-2370

Pérez Construction/Contract Management “El Dorado Ranch 5 Star Contractor” Jane Allen, Contract Manager 480.600.2114 or 011.521.686.236.4927 Lupe Pérez, General Contractor 011.521.686.170.3979

bestinbaja@gmail.com

Kitchen/Bath Cocina/Bano Concepto Casa ..........................686-576-0731

PMD Developments.........................................638-105-9182 Quartermoon Construction . ...........................686-228-7480 San Felipe Home Builders................................686-577-3176

HOME CLEANING/LIMPIEZA DE CASAS Redwagon Proerty Management......................686-576-0081 Housekeeping - Jackie’s Home Help................686-228-7480 HOME IMPROVEMENTS/MEJORAMIENTO CASERO Baja Home Improvement.................................686-222-4507 Tropical Home Improvement............................686-577-0041 HOSPITAL Hospital San Felipe . .......................................686-577-0117 ..............................or call 686-569-3019 or 686-212-1672

SAN FEL I PE

LANDSCAPING/JARDINERÍA Mauricio’s Lanscaping....................................686-151-8002

Prestige Landscape and Maintenance..............686-170-8651 Your Paradise...My Passion Versoleil . ................................................. 686-576-0664

HOTEL/MOTEL - See the San Felipe Lodging/Dinning Guide Section IMPORT SERVICES/SE RVICIOS DE IMPORTACIÓN San Felipe Storage Company........................... 686-576-0432 Insurance Alani’s Mexican Insurance...............................686-577-2464

Lynda’s Insurance (English speaking)..............686-577-1622

Orval Insurance............................... orvalquotes@gmail.com

LAUNDRY SERVICE/LAVANDERÍA Wash Tub........................................................ 686-577-2001

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San Felipe, Baja California

LIFEGUARD/SALVAVIDAS San Felipe Lifeguards......................................686-233-7730 Ask for Franscio LIQUOR/LICORERÍA Tecate Six - Julio.............................................686-119-0030 LOCKSMITH/CERRAJERO Gomez Locksmith........................................... 686-221-8337 24 HR Service, Professional Service. Homes, Cars, Boats, Motorcycles, English Spoken Pest Control Luis Lagarde...................................................686-573-0258 POSTAL SERVICES/SERVICIOS POSTALES Yetmail............................................................ 686-577-1255

Sand & Sea..................................................... 686-577-3168 ............................. 686-147-6752 SunRunner Mail Center MASSAGE/MASAJE Casey’s Place (Massage)................................686-577-1431

60 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Hands On Baja................................................686-171-6885 No phone? Make an appointment at the Call Margaret.

Sea Star Health Food Store..............................686-577-6250 MEDICAL SERVICES/SERVICIOS MÉDICOS Ambulance.....................................................686-577-0500 Health Center................................................. 686-577-1521 Red Cross.......................................................686-577-1544 San Felipe Hospital..........................................686-577-0117 Optometrists/Opthamologists California Optical.............................................686-577-0708 OpticaMaxi Vision.......................................... 686-577-0320

PAINT/PINTURA John B. Ross..................................................686-109-9544 PHARMACY/FARMACIA Santa Fe Pharmacy ........................................686-576-0546

San Felipe, Baja California PHOTOGRAPHY/FOTOGRAFÍA Casey Hamlin.com..........................................686-577-1431 Francisco Romo..............................................686-577-1193 Ron Saunders.................................................686-576-0007 Victor Rodriguez Ratliff....................................686-573-0222 POLICE/POLICÍA Federal Preventive Police ................................686-577-1045 Police ............................................................686-577-1134 PRINTERS/IMPRESORAS Papeleria Copicentro.......................................686-577-1402 The Print Supplier............................................686-230-9933 PROPERTY MANAGEMENT/MANEJO DE PROPIEDADES Baja Bill’s Property Management.....................686-577-4014 Casey’s Place.................................................686-577-1431 Custom Vacation Homes.................................928-277-6863 928-277-7559 & visit www.sanfelipevacations.com Enjoy Baja.......................................................686-576-0697 Redwagon Enterprises....................................686-576-0081 PUBLICATIONS/PUBLICACIONES Gringo Gazette................................................686-111-3692 Mexico Living Magazine..................................686-577-1377 San Felipe Newsletter......................................686-577-2898

SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS/ ORGANIZACIONES DE SERVICIO Club Las Amigas.............................................686-202-0455 San Felipe Lions Club......................................686-212-3599 San Felipe Rotary............................................686-576-0112

SHOPPING MALL/CENTRO DE COMPRAS La Plazita........................................................686-577-2119 SPANISH LESSONS Kelly Walsh.....................................................686-149-6747 SPECIALTY STORES Sea of Cortez Salt...........................................686-209-0074 STORAGE/ALMACÉN Lock Box........................................................ 686-576-0606 San Felipe Storage Company........................... 686-576-0432

REAL ESTATE AGENTS/AGENTES DE BIENES RAÍCES Bill Maine........................................................686-231-4921 Gary Gold.......................................................686-211-9952 Kathy Preppernau............................................686-210-4458 Katy Asimus...................................................686-211-5474 Nate Morace...................................................686-171-3257 REAL ESTATE/BIENES RAÍCES .........................................686-577-0611 Amor Property Baja Ranch & Sea Realty.................................686-577-1304 Baja 24/7 Construction & Real Estate..............686-577-6196

TATTOOING/TATUAJES Baja Ink Spot Tattoo & Body Piercing...............686-577-2538

SAN FEL I PE

Botica “Sagrado Corazon”...............................686-577-1294

TIRE SHOP/lLANTERA Llantera Aguilar...............................................686-192-8462 TRANSLATION/TRADUCCIÓN Carlota Villagran B...........................................686-212-9951

California Real Estate & Construction.. 686-576-0420 Call Margaret Realty........................................686-577-1156 Desert Mother.................................................686-577-2552 Desert Realty..................................................686-577-6336 Enjoy Baja.......................................................686-576-0697 Sea Mexico Realty (SMR)................................686-576-0223 REAL ESTATE SERVICES/servicios DE BIENES RAÍCES Baja Closing & Escrow Services......................686-576-0653 RECREATION/RECREACIÓN San Felipe Sailing-Sailing Lessons...................686-114-3259 Aerodynamic - Ultralight flights . .....................686-116-2933 ROOFING/TECHOS San Felipe Professional Roofing.......................686-590-6818 SATELLITE TELEVISION & INTERNET/TELEVISION SATELITALES Y INTERNET CSI Computer-Satellite-Installation............686-577-2928

TRANSPORTATION/TRANSPORTACIÓN Airport............................................................686-577-1368 Taxi Service....................................................686-577-1293 Bus Station ....................................................686-577-1516 utilities/empresas de servicios públicos Electric (CFE)...................... 686-577-1060 or 686-577-5602 Estrella Azul (Water Dispensery)......................686-577-1314 Propane Gas...................................................686-577-2373 State Com. of Services Public.........................686-556-1383 Telnor Phone Co..............................................686-577-1000 Water Company..............................................686-577-1022 VETERINARY/VETERINARIO Hospital Animal...............................................686-577-1688 PETS..............................................................686-577-2155 WASTE MANAGEMENT/MANEJO DE DESHECHO San Felipe Disposal.........................................686-121-1004 WELDING SERVICES/SERVICIOS DE SOLDADURA Waldo The Welder...........................................686-226-3127 WINDOW CLEANING/LIMPIEZA DE VENTANAS Pro Window Cleaning......................................686-590-6594

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Puerto Peñasco, Sonora

PUERTO Peñasco SONORA MEXICO

Puerto Peñasco, commonly known among many of its English-speaking visitors as Rocky Point, is a small city of approximately 42,000 people in the northern state of Sonora, Mexico. Located on the shore of the Gulf of California (also known as the Sea of Cortéz), the town is known for its fishing and tourism industries.

It is a popular destination for tourists, particularly those from Arizona, for Puerto Peñasco is nearest beach. This is why it is such a popular Spring Break destination with students from Arizona, New Mexico, and California. Puerto Peñasco is located in the ‘free zone’ where tourists are not required currently to obtain immigration papers in order to visit. Puerto Peñasco marina has new fuel docks and other boat-related developments as part of the country’s Escala Nautica (Nautical Ladder) efforts, which call for a chain of ‘tourist-class’ marinas sprinkled up and down the Baja coast in an effort to promote nautical tourism.

62 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Puerto Peñasco has two main beach areas. To the west of the Old Port area, there is a wide, flat area known as Sandy Beach. This is the home to several large hotel/resorts with more under construction.

East of Puerto Peñasco, there is a long coast with several areas, known in parts as La Mirador, Playa del Oro and then Las Conchas, an area of beachfront and near-beach condos, homes and time-shares.

Puerto Peñasco is in the same time zone as Arizona observes, and does not observe rules for Daylight Saving Time same as Arizona.

GETTING TO PUERTO Peñasco FLYING No commercial flights. Puerto Peñasco airport supports private and charter flights.

DRIVING

Visitors to the interior of Sonora are now able to

Puerto Peñasco, Sonora

Puerto Peñasco, Sonora This picture was taken from the Malecon in Old Port looking west onto Sandy Beach resorts in November 2006, where you can see various high rise structures being constructed.

DRIVING DISTANCES

drive directly to such cities as Guaymas, San Carlos, Hermosillo, Bahia de Kino, Caborca, Father Kino Missions, Magdalena, and Santa Ana without the time-consuming process of obtaining a car permit.

With the movement of the “Only Sonora” vehicle checkpoint, visitors to the state will no longer have to obtain a car permit in order to travel south of Nogales.

Puerto Peñasco From Phoenix west on I-10 to State Route 85, southbound on SR 85 to Gila Bend.

Gila Bend turn right at a sign stating “Mexico” and “SR 85 South” before McDonalds. Continue southbound on SR 85 through Ajo, Why and the Organ Pipe National Monument to the border at Lukeville, Arizona.

From Tucson, State Route 86 westbound to “Why”, Arizona and go south on SR 85 through Organ Pipe National Monument to the border at Lukeville, AZ. From Yuma, go eastbound on I-8 from Yuma to the SR 85 to Gila Bend (see Gila Bend above).

Puerto Peñasco Sonora

Mexico Living Contact Information Penasco Office 638-388-5004 Mex Cell (from states) 011-521-638-113-4591 Associate Publisher Russ Black - russ@mexicoliving.info Associate Editor Naomi Black - penascoeditor@mexicoliving.info

PUER TO Pe ñasco

Ajo, AZ.................................................94 miles Albuquerque, NM...............................678 miles Caborca, MZ......................................108 miles Guaymas, MX.....................................345 miles Hermosillo, MX..................................270 miles Las Vegas, NV....................................475 miles Los Angeles, CA.................................550 miles Lukeville, AZ........................................68 miles Nogales, MX......................................294 miles Phoenix, AZ........................................215 miles San Carlos, MX..................................357 miles San Diego, CA....................................445 miles San Francisco, CA..............................927 miles Salt Lake City, UT...............................890 miles Sonoyta, MX.........................................66 miles Tucson, AZ........................................ 170 miles Yuma, AZ............................................271 miles

From Ensenada or San Felipe take the Mexico Route 2 (MR-2) towards San Luis Rio Colorado and continue on MR-2 to Sonoita.

From the border, you will continue southbound two miles to a three-way intersection in Sonoyta.

Merge LEFT towards Caborca for one until the road splits into a “Y”, stay to the RIGHT and you’re on your way. Continue southbound approximately fifty miles to Puerto Peñasco.

THINGS TO DO Puerto Peñasco has a wide variety of activities available for everyone, from the lazy days relaxing in the sun, to the action filled wild ride. Activities including shopping, scuba diving, sport fishing, sunset cruises, off-road adventures, horseback riding, kayaking, parasailing, watercraft rentals and much more.

HASSLE-FREE SONORA Visitors to the interior of Sonora are now able to drive directly to such cities as Guaymas, San Carlos, Hermosillo, Bahia de Kino, Caborca, Father Kino Missions, Magdalena and Santa Ana without the timeconsuming process of obtaining a car permit.

The “Only Sonora” program, unique in Mexico, allows Americans and Canadians to visit Sonora.

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 63

Puerto Peñasco, Sonora

Dining & Lodging Guide

Off the Beaten Path in Puerto Peñasco Gems Beyond the Tourist District

You have probably driven right by the sign for Fede’s on your way to town from Sandy Beach.

Serving locals in their brightly decorated dining room, and delivering Barbara Rojo Ruíz, la cocinera. call-in orders, Fede’s Photo by Gretchen Ellinger specializes in breakfast and lunchtime comidas corridas, food “on the run.” A great place for breakfast any day, but especially when the usual places are crowded, or for lunch on your way home from a morning of shopping, you will be pleasantly surprised at the Fede’s experience!

Barbara Rojo Ruíz, la cocinera, serves up a different lunch special each day of the week. Monday’s chilis rellenos and Thursday’s enchiladas suizas, filled with chicken and made with mild green chilies, are absolutely delicious! Served with tossed salad and rice, they make a great meal. For an easy company dinner, order these delicious “white” enchiladas ahead—they will wow your guests!

64 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

by Gretchen Ellinger

Fede’s always has home brewed jamaica to drink; this traditional Mexican drink is actually a tea made from hibiscus flowers, and is said to be healthy and full of antioxidants. It is definitely delicious, and may well become your favorite non-alcoholic beverage.

Plan about $7 each to lunch at Fede’s, including drinks! Open from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m., except Sundays, Fede’s is located on Calle Franciso Villa, a half a block south of Calle NoReelección. From Sandy Beach, follow Las Palomas Blvd toward town, and take Calle NoReeleción east from the second traffic circle. At the first stop sign, turn right, and go a half a block; Fede’s is the brightly painted little restaurant on your left. Call 383-3419 for takeout or delivery to your home, condominium or hotel. ¡Buen provecho!

The little red restaurant.

Photo by Gretchen Ellinger

Puerto Peñasco, Sonora

Puerto Peñasco DIRECTORY ICON Descriptions

#

- Pool/Spa

- Accept Credit Cards

- Pet Friendly

- Wi-Fi / Internet

- Serves Breakfast

- Kitchen/Restaurant

- Beer/Spirits

- Map Number

- Reader Poll Winner

American

PLACES TO EAT

Breakfast

Giuseppe’s Coffee . ............................... 638-383-5181

Chinese

Rocky Point Chinese ............................. 638-383-5940

Mexican

Betos Place .......................................... 638-383-5198 Cocodrilos ............................................ 638-383-6376 La Curva . ............................................. 638-383-3470 Manny’s Beach Club ............................. 638-383-3605 Aladinos Restaurant............................... 638-383-6175

Pizza

Augustin’s Pizza and Wings.................... 638-383-1699 13th Street in front of Kenos

PUER TO Pe ñasco

Maxs Cafe ............................................ 638-383-1011 Thirst Parrot .............................................................

Steak & Seafood

Friendly Dolphin .................................... 638-383-2608 Lighthouse . .......................................... 638-383-2389 Latitude 31 Rest. & Sports Bar............... 638-383-4311 PLACES TO STAT

RV Park/Parque de RV

Bonita RV Park....................................... 638-383-1400 Playa Bonita........................................... 638-383-2596

Rentals/Se Rente

Casa Encanto Beach House.................... 638-383-4549 Casa Monica Cholla Bay......................... 638-382-5147 Bed & Breakfast with First Class Accommodations on the Beach in Cholla Bay” Cyndi’s Beachfront Home Rentals.......... 638-383-5145 Sylvia’s Condos..................................... 638-383-5429 Go 2 Rocky Point................................... 602-748-4134

Motels/Moteles

Baja Hotel.............................................. 638-383-6878 El Mirador Village................................... 638-383-6333 Paraiso Hotel......................................... 638-383-6175 Playa Azul Motel.................................... 638-383-6296 Playa Bonita Hotel.................................. 638-383-2586 Sandy Beach Resorts............................. 638-383-1111 Sonoran Spa Resort............................... 638-383-1044 Playa Inn/Best Western..........................638-383-5015 Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 65

Puerto Peñasco, Sonora

Puerto Peñasco Scene

Puerto Peñasco’s Got It Going On From business on the move, hot slots and birthdays to people doing good.

Xochitls Cafe in Cholla Bay will be moving. Sally tells me her new location should be open by June.

It will be just down the street from the old place.

Sally offers great breakfast and lunch including Mexican specialties, and pizza and salads for dinner.

Portofino’s Restaurant has also moved; it is just a few doors away from the old location and is still serving great Italian food.

Bikes on the Beach is now open on Calle 13 just before the turn to Playa Bonita. The owner Thure Mollerhoj is servicing all types of ATVs, golf carts and all motorcycle brands. Maru Zacatelco has also moved Castaways Vacation Rentals to Plaza Las Glorias at the end of Calle 13 under the SunSet Cantina.

The Black Dog now has slot machines and there is a new casino-type hall a little ways east on Freemont Boulevard called “Slots of Fun.” Visit them—maybe you will be one of the many lucky winners! Camel Toe Cantina is now open and is a very popular spot for bikers since you can ride your Harley right through the front door and into the courtyard. It is about two blocks to the right after turning off 13th Street on the road towards Playa Bonita.

Kasia’s birthday party was at Swimm in Bella Sirena where Kenny Wallace, Puerto Peñasco’s very own party man (and Kasia’s boyfriend) had everything planned and ready. Then the party went on at Sunset Cantina and ended at Elixir, the locals’ favorite nightclub. Also be on the lookout for Kasia’s new clothesline “Misguided Angel” to be released this year.

Another Bella Sirena event was Anne and Chad Cloward’s wedding. Who would have thought that

66 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

by Rita Pizarro and Tom Thomas

Rocky Point’s most popular bachelor would get married? The couple couldn’t have looked happier.

On National Conservation Day, CEDO (winners of the 2008 National Conservation Award) organized a parade.There were people riding bicycles, skates, scooters and walking—a few healthy ways to save the earth. Then the little ones headed to the beach at Playa Bonita where they flew kites.

In Playa Encanto, we met Eli and John Maurx from Sedillo, NM. They had a truck full a material that we learned is called “Perform Wall.” These giant blocks made out of recycled polystyrene, concrete, water and other additives have an incredibly high R factor. Congratulations to Eli and John on their new home and great choice of materials!

Phyllis Lefevre of Coldwell Banker Real Estate, and well known for forming the Uncommon Women on Common Grounds and helping with too many charity and local events to try to mention, has left Puerto Peñasco and will be missed by all who know her. She rejoined her husband, Norman, in Texas. Her farewell was at Capone’s Pizza and Beer with a special appearance by The Fearless Juanzitos. Rosie Glover of ProAlliance Insurance is the new organizer for Uncommon Women on Common Grounds. They meet the second Tuesday of every month. For more information, email rosie@ proalliance.com.mx.

Al Capone's Pizza & Beer, Winner of Mexico Living Best of 2008 for Best Pizza

Puerto Peñasco, Sonora

A Slightly Salty Shade Tree

by Naomi Black

“tammywackers” spend their day trying to eradicate stands of tamarisk, pulling the plants up by the roots or cutting them down and painting a solution on the stumps to prevent regrowth. Other scientists believe that introducing the Diorhabda beetle, a beetle which basically kills off tamarisks, might be a viable solution. These beetles have already been introduced in areas such as Texas, and recent studies are underway to research a similar release of these beetles in Northern Mexico.

So the next time you sit under a giant, shady (and perhaps to some, unwanted) salt cedar, just look at the leaves… that salty residue may just be tears.

PUER TO Pe ñasco

In the coolness beneath a giant salt cedar tree, I look up at the towering tree and think what a great shade this is! However, not everyone would agree. The salt cedar, an evergreen with gray-green foliage, which may grow to 18 meters in height, is in the family of tamarisk that includes over 50 species.

However, many scientists, environmentalists and researchers view this family of tamarisk as a despised enemy!

The salt cedar thrives in alkaline and saline soils and can tolerate high levels of salt and is often found in the lowland shores of Sonora and Baja California. The salt cedar is a fastgrowing tree which may grow four meters in a single growing season! The adult salt cedar is remarkably tolerant to stress, including heat, cold, drought and flood.

The salt cedar doesn’t exclude salt intake by roots, as do other plants. It actually transports salt from the groundwater up into its leaves. The leaves are dotted with salt-excreting glands which cause them to become encrusted with salty secretions. Year after year, the salt-drenched leaves drop beneath the tree and the salinity beneath the tree increases tremendously. In areas where there is little rainfall or flooding, the soil will not get flushed of this overabundance of salt. In time, the soil around the tree is not conducive to other plant growth. These trees are extremely invasive, competing successfully and aggressively overwhelming all other native plants.

Salt cedars are popular shade trees and used as windbreaks in the southern United States and Northern Mexico; yet many environmental groups consider the species as a whole to be an unwanted guest. In the United States, people known as

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 67

Puerto Pe単asco, Sonora

68 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Puerto Peñasco, Sonora

The Making of an Executive Chef: An Interview With Mickey Medina

By Ruth Muñoz-Hjelm

Chef Mickey: Today I consider myself a saucier, and seafood and steak are my passion. In Vegas we got to cook for stars like Frank Sinatra and Liza Minelli.

Executive Chef Mickey Medina. Photo by Ruth Muñoz-Hjelm

Muñoz-Hjelm: What inspired your culinary interest?

Chef Mickey: My father died when I was a year and a half and it was hard for my mother to take care of my two brothers, two sisters and myself. I was the youngest and started cooking when I was eight years old because everyone had to work. I would have dinner ready and clean house. My mother taught me to cook beans, chicken with rice and “carne con chile.” After a while I realized that I had some talent. When I was ten years old, I started creating my own recipes, cooking style and design.

Muñoz-Hjelm: Did you design the menu at Hacienda Las Fuentes?

Chef Mickey: Yes, but I’m changing it to add new dishes and make it more affordable.

Muñoz-Hjelm: Where are you from originally?

Chef Mickey: I was born in Guadalajara, but we moved to the U.S. when I was thirteen. I wanted to study there but didn’t know I would become a chef. We moved to California and then to Las Vegas where I worked side by side with some of the best French, Chinese, Mexican and Italian chefs in the world. Sous chef Carter told me once: “You know what? You are going to be a good chef someday.”

Muñoz-Hjelm: What do you consider your greatest culinary accomplishment?

Chef Mickey: About ten years ago.

Cooking is like this: it’s like the English language; someone teaches you how to speak English, they teach you the basics and with that you are able to write a song or write a beautiful poem.

I am a perfectionist, I pay very close attention to detail and to me good taste is more important than presentation.

Muñoz-Hjelm: When did you come to Rocky Point?

Chef Mickey: In 2001 and I fell in love with Peñasco. It is my town and my home now and Hacienda Las Fuentes is the best restaurant in town.

It may not have an ocean view, but what we do have is great food.

PUER TO Pe ñasco

Muñoz-Hjelm: At what point did you become an Executive Chef?

Muñoz-Hjelm: How do you feel about winning the Iron Chef event?

Chef Mickey: It was my idea and we don’t want to lose the trophy. The contest was a good thing for this town. I will challenge all the chefs in town, eventually in Arizona, California, Baja, as well as internationally to put Peñasco on the map.

Muñoz-Hjelm: Other community events or personal goals?

Chef Mickey: My boss, Larry Large, is very generous and I am happy to work for him. We have several events every year to benefit the people of Peñasco. We plan to do catering with a “Take Home Chef” service, open “Mickey’s Breakfast House” next door with American dishes geared for the health conscious customer, and I want to be recognized, to cook for those at the rehab center to inspire them, and to help students at the culinary school to gain work experience.

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 69

Puerto Pe単asco, Sonora

70 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Puerto Peñasco, Sonora

Got Love? Go to Puerto Peñasco

Top 10 Romantic Things to Do in Puerto Peñasco

by Anita Kaltenbaugh

It is the month of February and love is in the air. Cupid is soaring in the Puerto Peñasco winds, with his shiny bow and arrow ready to pull the arrow tight and let it fly. Who knows where it will strike or when or whom? Usually when love strikes, it happens fast, in a blink of an eye. Bam, you’re hit. And as some may know, especially if you’re in love, trying to be in love or looking for love, the right atmosphere or activity can make a difference. So, peruse this list and try one or all of the ideas with that special someone and just see if the arrows don’t come flying!

2. Romantic Picnic for Two. Take a Mexican blanket, a picnic basket, some beverages and go sit on the beach. Surprise is a romantic factor. Just pick them up and leave the activity and destination a secret.

3. Rent a condo on Sandy Beach with a hot tub on the balcony. Believe it or not there are many resorts to choose from that offer Jacuzzi tubs on the balcony overlooking the beach and ocean. Various rental agencies offer many units all over town. Just cozy up to your sweetheart in a hot tub looking at the ocean and make it a special night or weekend. For rental ideas see www.rpreservations.com or www. seasidemexico.com; ask for units with hot tubs.

4. Go Horseback riding on the beach. There are several local businesses that have horses for rent (the rental I used is available over by the entrance to Playa Bonita and near the public beach). It is very romantic to take a horseback ride on the beach with the one you love.

5. Go to Happy Hour at La Casa Del Capitan restaurant at Sunset. El Capitan is on the high peak overlooking the Malecon, Old Port and the Sea of Cortez. The views are beautiful and very romantic; you can also spend time next door at the Lighthouse Restaurant where they have live jazz music and spectacular views.

6. Be on the water at sunset. Rent a kayak, boat or take a Sunset Cruise. Puerto Peñasco offers both kayak rentals and boat rentals. If you are looking for the private tour and know how to drive a boat or use a kayak that is a good option and can be quite romantic. However, if you would rather sit back and let someone else drive try one of the various Sunset Cruises, try El Rey Del Mar Sunset Cruises (office located near Balboa’s), www.kayakrockypoint.com.

Couple on the beach in love enjoying wine.

Photo by Nicolaas Weber

7. Couple massage for two. In front of Las Palomas there is a local woman offering beach massages. Talk to her and see if she can arrange two at a time and book her early morning or late afternoon. There are several massage therapists in Puerto Peñasco who can arrange to come to your condo or balcony for a more private setting. Try www.yourbackinline.com for prices and contacts and Rita at (602) 748-4134.

PUER TO Pe ñasco

1. Buy a Love Song from a Mariachi for your sweetheart. This one can really work well if you plan ahead. In the majority of the restaurants in town and in Old Port area they have various groups of traveling mariachis’. Excuse yourself, go to the banos and ask one to come over and play a love song when you get back to the table. I recommend “Besame Mucho.”

8. Sunrise Special in Cholla Bay. Make an early date to wake up one morning 30 minutes before sunrise. Wrapped in a big oversized blanket together is a great way to make a day romantic. A remarkable place is over in Cholla Bay where you can actually see the sunrise from the water. Depending on the tide, you can also walk out on the sand and look for washed up sand dollars. Afterwards, you can stroll to Xochitl’s Café and have an impressive Mexican breakfast.

9. Go Parking on a deserted beach. Puerto Peñasco is fortunate to have deserted beaches within a short drive. Many you can walk for miles with no one around and also pick up some good shells. The rest is up to you.

10. Go to the Malecon on a Sunday night and sit on a bench in front of the Colossal Shrimp Statue. Sunday night in Mexico is family night. It is a wonderful evening that friends and family use to spend time with each other and their significant others. When the fiery red ball drops into the ocean and a red glow is everywhere, somehow all seems warm and right with the world, love is abundant.

You’ve heard “Virginia is for Lovers”? Well, “Puerto Peñasco is for Lovers,” and this is just a few of the romantic things to do in Peñasco. Mucho Amore.

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 71

Puerto Peñasco , Sonora

Puerto Peñasco, Sonora DIALING INSTRUCTIONS: USA to MX Cel Phone: 011+52+1+Area Code+(Tel #) USA to Mexico: 011+52+Area Code+(Tel #) Mexico to USA: 001+Area Code+(Tel #) MX Landline to MX Cell Phone: 045 or 044+Area Code+(Tel #) MX Cell Phone to MX Landline: Area Code+(Tel #)

PUER TO Pe ñasco

DIALING 800 NUMBER: 800 DIALING to the US From Mexico (dial 001+) To Dial USA 800................................ dial 880 To Dial USA 866................................ dial 883 To Dial USA 877................................ dial 882 To Dial USA 888................................ dial 881 IMPORTANT NUMBERS: MX 411 (Spanish only)............................ 040 Tourist Assistance Hotline....................... 076 Green Angels (MX toll Free).1-800-903-0092 Worldwide Emergency No.for Mobile is.. 112 Emergencies................................060 & 066 Sky Medical (from Mexico).001-866-805-9624 Air-E-Vac ....................... 001-880-321-9522 BUSINESS DIRECTORY (A-Z)

DOCTORS/DOCTORES Dr. Luis Vasquez, M.D. ................................638 383-3014 Fire Department/Departamento de Bomberos Fire Department................................... 638-383-2828/068 FINANCING/FINANCIAMIENTO Baja Lending Company......... ......................760-494-7053 Monex Financial...........................................638-388-5764 FURNITURE/Mobiliario Disenos Furniture.........................................638-383-8633 Designs by Eddie Wharez Consign and Design ...................................638-110-6121 HOME INSPECTIONS Tom Thomas................................................602-748 4134 Immigration Services/Servicios de Inmigración Sun Valley Immigration Services .................638-383-8891 Ask for Bianey or Dynora INSURANCE Services/Servicios de SEGUROS Alejandro Portugal Insurance........................638-383-2390

Lynda’s Insurance (English speaking)...........686-577-1622

ACCOUNTING/CONTABILIDAD BBBS Inc.....................................................928 329-8000 ARCHITECT/ARQUITECTO . ......638 383-4710 Plinio Rivero Architects & Builders ARTIST Marianne Menditto.......................................638-383-7616 JJ’s Cantina

BARS/CLUBS ............................................ at Cholla Bay

CAR RENTAL/alquiler de autos The Point Rent-A -Car..................................638 388-5823 church/iglesia Family of God Christian Fellowship Non-Denominational 044-638- 107-7150 Church Worship Services, Sundays at 9 a.m. Placita Melanie, Suite #211 Blvd. Fremont Clothing/ropa Mad Gringo Clothing...........................mex.madgringo.com CONTRACTOR Manuel Pacheo......................................... (686) 577-0745 Contractor-builder building to American standards for 20 years contact Robert Brittain at Su Casa Elegante USA 760 477-5963 PMD Developments......................................638 105-9182 Casas Colibri Tom Swanson.........................638 383-7616 Curio SHOP Jose’s - Rosy’s - Carlos’s Curios.................638 383-8508 Just under Augustin’s Pizza and Wings DEVELOPMENTS/FRACCIONAMIENTOS Bella Vista ......................................... 638-388-7194 "Parayso" Desembembogue Devept..............638 388-5707

72 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

ProAlliance Insurance................................... 638-383-2390 LEATHER Manny’s Leather Factory..............................638-388-0609 Rita Pizarro

MASSAGE/MASAJE ........................................... 638-386-5203

MEDICAL SERVICES/SERVICIOS MÉDICOS Clinica Hospital........................................... 638-383-2447 City (Municipal) Hospital ............................638-383-2110 Central Clinic ..............................................638-383-2110 Hospital IMSS ............................................638-383-2777 Red Cross . .................................................638-383-2266 REAL ESTATE/BIENES RAÍCES Baja Lending Co...........................................760-494-7053 Buena Vide Real Estate.................................638-110-4127 Century 21 Cholla Bay ...............................638-382-5147 From the US 602-412-3311 ask for Grechen GretchenEllinger@century21penasco.com

Puerto Peñasco, Sonora

CICESE

400

6

1

Dom 18

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(31 18 N, 113 33 W) Vie

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1110 32

1738 310

2322 125

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520 308

1201 59

1907 277

039 184

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601 257

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427 857 193 221

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552 140

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1109 64

1803 2322 276 184

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1707 104

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045 411

707 61

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1519 447

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328 436

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1553 423

2147 16

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Hora del Meridiano:

105 W.G.

Nivel de Referencia:

BMI

1er Cuarto: Luna LLena: 3er Cuarto: Luna Nueva:

2 9 16 24

http://oceanografia.cicese.mx/predmar MAR V0.7 2006 J.I. González

Century 21 Puerto Peñasco USA Office # 480-626-4687

. .................638-388-1295

Puerto Peñasco, Mexico Fremont Blvd., Plaza Palmillas century21penasco.com

Mexico Office # (01152) 638-388-1295 REAL ESTATE/BIENES RAÍCES Susie Flinn - Remax Puerto Penasco............638-360-5876 www.rockypointrealestategirl.com

Legacy

Puerto Peñasco

Susie Flinn

Licensed Real Estate Agent Resident for over 30 years

MX CELL: 044-638-380-5876 FROM US: 011-52-1-638-380-5876 MX PHONE: 011-52-638-383-1425 US PHONE: 602-334-4359

POLICE/POLICÍA City Police Department . ..............................638-383-2626 State Police................................................. 638-383-2783 Seamstress/Modista Naomi Black (habla ingles)...........................638-388-5004 naomi@rhipeo.com TEQUILA Manny’s Tequila Factory...............................638-388-0607

PUER TO Pe ñasco

cms

FEBRERO 2009 0

Pto. Peñasco, Son.

Translation / Transducciones Shandra (Sami) Keesecker-Rivero................638-383-8217 www.recursosmexico.com info@recursosmexico.com utilities/empresas de servicios públicos Power Company ..................................638-383-2492/071 Propane .....................................................638-383-2630 Telephone Office .........................................638-383-2288 Water Co. ..................................................638-383-2060 Window Coverings Blinds Depot................................................638-105 1275 Seaside Window Coverings..........................638-383 5181

www.realestaterockypoint.net susan_flinn@yahoo.com

REAL ESTATE SERVICES/servicios DE BIENES RAÍCES Baja Closing & Escrow Services...................686-576-0653 RECREATION/RECREACIÓN Kayak Rocky Point ................................638-103-2038 Rocky Point Parasailing................................638-107-5922 www.RockyPointParasailing.com Rocky Point Jetski........................................638-110-8115 Jet Ski rental, fishing charters Choya Bay at JJ’s Cantina PARTY SUPPLIES/Fiestas provisiones Tips.............................................................638-383-3002 Stuff for your Events, Parties and Meetings

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 73

San Carlos,/SGonora uaymas, Sonora

SAN CARLOS SONORA San Carlos is a beachfront subdivision within the port city of Guaymas, in the northern state of Sonora in Mexico. It is noted for the exceptional clarity and warmth of the ocean water in its shallow bays. It lies on the body of water known as the Gulf of California or Sea of Cortez. Given the size of the city, with nearly 7,000 inhabitants, there are nine hotels of diverse categories with 567 rooms; 280 RV spaces, two marinas with enough space to berth 570 boats, one 72 par 18 hole golf course and endless natural attractions.

Due to the great diversity of marine species, San Carlos is the best place in the State of Sonora for the sport of diving.

San Carlos is approximately a five-hour drive (241 miles) from the United States on Mexican Interstate Highway 15, 20 minutes from Guaymas, and only an hour from the state capital Hermosillo and an International Airport.

The trip from the United States requires that foreigners obtain a tourist visa. Car permits are only required to travel south of Guaymas.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

in Mexico, they are generally cheaper than flights from U.S. cities into Hermosillo. Once in Hermosillo is easy to hop a bus to Guaymas.

Beautiful aerial shot of San Carlos Bay. Photo by Todd Photo (toddphoto.com)

FLY

TUCSON AIRPORT – grab a cab from Tucson Airport to Tufesa Bus Terminal (5 minutes away), then take a bus from the bus terminal to Guaymas. This is the least inexpensive way to get to San Carlos.

HERMOSILLO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT – 75 miles north of San Carlos. Flights to Tucson, Phoenix, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, as well as most cities in Mexico. If you are close to the border (Tijuana, Ciudad Juarez), check flights leaving out of those airports 74 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

GUAYMAS – GENERAL JOSE MARIA YANEX INTERN’L Services at airports in Guaymas is 9am to 7pm.

Costly, but close (20 minutes) to San Carlos.

Private planes may land here also. Administrator is Juan Jose Jauregui Kawakita. Tel: +52 (01) 622 1-00-44 +52 (01) 622 1-06-34

+52 (01) 622 1-08-04 More information on private aircraft is available from AOPA at: 1 800/USA-AOPA www.aopa.org/members/resources/international.html Transportation from the airport to San Carlos – the taxi union at the airport has set their fares to a standard rate of $30 usd (300 pesos) from the airport to hotels in town.

Car rental at the Guaymas airport for about $70 usd (700 pesos). Budget Car Rental and Hertz have local offices.

You can catch the San Carlos bus for .70 cents (7 pesos). It shows up at the airport every hour and will take you into Guaymas where you get off at Ley Shopping Center and can catch a bus back to San Carlos for .90 cents (9 pesos)-not recommended if you have more luggage than you can carry on your own!

BUS

TUFESA bus line runs from Arizona, California and Nevada to Hermosillo. The buses are new and the fares are inexpensive. Phoenix (602) 415-9900; Tucson (520) 670-1534.

PUER SAN TOCARLOS Pe ñasco

San Carlos Puerto S/anGPC uaymas eñasco arlos, Sonora

working, raise the hood of your vehicle and they will stop to help you. In an emergency, dial 066 (Sonora’s equivalent of 911).

OTHER INFO:

Ferry – Guaymas to Santa Rosalia, Baja California.

Departures: Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays & Saturdays 8:00pm. Phone 622-222-0204 Mexican Toll Free #01-800-505-5018 U.S. Consulate – in Hermosillo: Monterrey #141 Rosales Street and Galeana Col. Esqueda. Open MonFri 8:00am to 4:30pm Phone: 622-289-3500.

DRIVE

From Nogales take Mexico Interstate 15 to Hermosillo. It is a well-paved 4-lane highway. What makes this road unique is their dependence on toll funding rather than taxation to pay the development cost. There are 3 toll booths; Nogales, Magdalena De Kino, and Hermosillo north. You can pay in either USD or pesos.

You must stop at the Kilometer 21 checkpoint and obtain a tourist Visa. Go to the white building marked “tourist permits”. You will be asked to show your citizenship documents and to fill out a form. Once filled out, the official will stamp it and you are ready to head south to San Carlos.

Breakdowns – The highway is patrolled by Los Angeles Verdes (The Green Angels). If you need assistance dial 078. If your cell phone is not

Warm wun in the morning across the bay.

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San Carlos,/SGonora uaymas, Sonora

Where to Buy Appliances and Furniture

by Christa Thomas

People often ask me questions like “where can I buy mattresses” and “where did you buy your dryer.” Here are my tips on appliance and furniture shopping in San Carlos, Guaymas and Hermosillo: Appliances (linea blanca) Many brand names familiar to North Americans are widely available in Sonora, including GE, GE Profile, Maytag, Bosch, and Whirlpool. Other popular brands such as LG may have more limited availability in terms of models and stores representing them.

I bought my stove, dishwasher, and washer and dryer from Famsa on Serdan in downtown Guaymas—all GE or GE profile. After endlessly comparing all the stores, we found that Famsa had the best prices for the models we wanted. Plus, they offer free delivery to San Carlos. I also like the idea that if something goes wrong, they are nearby.

Their online prices are often less than in the store.

I printed copies of their web pages and the store was willing to match those prices. They may also give 10–15 percent discounts if you ask, so ask. There weren’t many sales people who spoke English, but they are very friendly and we got by with Spanglish.

I would have bought my refrigerator from Famsa, but they ran out of stock on the model that I wanted, so I went across the street to Muebleria del Pacifico to purchase the fridge.

In Hermosillo, Liverpool, Sears, Costco, Walmart, Sam’s Club, Ace Hardware, and Home Depot all carry appliances. Often, you can find appliances at Ley and Soriana too, but they tend to be basic models. All of the stores also carry brands exclusive to Mexico, such as Mabe and Acros. Don’t ignore products from a company like Mabe just because you haven’t seen them before—they actually make many models for GE and export them under the GE brand to the USA. Furniture (muebles) Our couch is a Boal. We ordered directly from the factory in Guadalajara and they delivered it to us. Many of the stores in San Carlos, Guaymas and Hermosillo carry Boal, including Casa Bonita (San Carlos) and Ashley (Hermosillo).

A beautiful wood dining room table with inlaid stone came from Casa Bonita. They deliver for free.

Several other wood colonial pieces came from the Cristo Rey factory in Navajoa. They say that they do not sell directly to the public anymore, but you can buy their products locally from Casa Bonita.

We found outdoor dining sets at both Ace Hardware and at Walmart in Hermosillo, and lounge chairs at Costco.

76 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Ashley and Ace both have a good selection of furniture in different styles and in different price ranges.

Across the street from Ace Home Hardware is an Ace Gallery furniture store that has a great selection, specializing in Broyhill, spread out over two large floors.

In Guaymas, Coppel at the Ley mall also carries some furniture pieces, as does Pacifico, and Famsa upstairs. In the same block on Serdan as Famsa and Pacifico (between Calles 16 & 17) is Cabenn, a very nice furniture store with a large and varied selection.

In Hermosillo, drive down Blvd Juan Navarette, which is halfway between, and parallel to, Blvd Luis Donaldo Colosio (Costco’s street) and Blvd Luis Encinas (Ace’s street) and you will find many furniture stores, including International, which has a wide selection of couches.

Mattresses (colchon) Be advised that Mexican mattresses are not sized the same as U.S. standards. To make sure your mattress is sized for your bed (and sheet sets), check the actual dimensions printed on the items. Friends have bought king mattresses at Costco in Hermosillo only to discover too late that they were Mexican sized (shorter and wider). We bought an American-sized king mattress and box spring set and a queen set from Ashley in Hermosillo.

Ashely will deliver to San Carlos for a fee, but you can’t take anything home from the store—you have to wait about one month for the order to arrive from California. Our other queen set came from Decoracion Tesoro in San Carlos, who also carries U.S. sizes.

They offer free local delivery.

Sears has a large selection of mattresses, many of them Sealy. Casa Bonita, Costco, Sam’s Club, Coppel, and Walmart also carry mattresses.

Once you have bought or built your beautiful San Carlos home, I encourage you to shop locally to furnish it. Between San Carlos, Guaymas and Hermosillo you are sure to find a style to match your taste and a price to fit your budget. Okay, maybe not your budget. If you’re like me, your budget went out the window about six months into your build. But if you’re willing to do some leg work, you will be able to furnish your home with quality products bought locally.

San Carlos Puerto S/anGPC uaymas eñasco arlos, Sonora

Rotary Parade of Homes

by Linda Shiflett

The meetings from November until the end of May are every Tuesday at noon at the Marina Terra Hotel in San Carlos, except the last Tuesday of each month when the members’ spouses may also attend an evening meeting with the members. These meetings are held at various locations. Visiting Rotarians who wish to attend the evening meeting must contact the club at least one week prior to the meeting. If you wish to attend a meeting, please contact Jim Haldeman at 226-0965, or if you are calling from outside of Mexico: 011-52-622-226-0965.

For more information, please visit: www. sancarlosrotary.org or email sancarlosrotary@ hotmail.com.

PUER SAN TOCARLOS Pe ñasco

San Carlos Rotary (Club Rotario de San Carlos) will hold its annual “Rotary Parade of Homes” on Tuesday, February 10, 2009. The tour will begin at 1 p.m. at the San Carlos Country Club parking lot. The parade of homes is the major fund-raising event of the San Carlos Rotary. Each year six homes in the San Carlos area are visited. They are selected to give the visitor a unique opportunity to see a wide range of the homes available in San Carlos. Visitors on the tour will be treated to a variety of architectures, furnishings and vistas.

Transportation will be provided and the tour ends with a margarita party at the San Carlos Country Club Palapa followed by a raffle. The raffle will include items donated by local merchants for massages, dinners, sporting activities, gifts for the home, art objects, etc. The cost for the tour will be 200 pesos and includes one raffle ticket. Tickets may be obtained from any Rotarian or can be purchased from 9 a.m. until noon at Banamex. All proceeds from the Parade of Homes goes to the education of students in the San Carlos area.

The San Carlos Rotary Club is an Englishspeaking Rotary Club whose members are full or part-time residents of San Carlos including Mexican, American and Canadian citizens. Currently, there are about 60 members. Many of their most active members are visiting Rotarians that participate in the club’s activities. The primary focus of the Club is supporting the education of the schoolchildren in the San Carlos community.

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San Carlos,/SGonora uaymas, Sonora

Women’s Annual Tetas de Cabra Climb

by Linda Shiflett

Local San Carlos realtor, Karen Stuart.

It took Karen and her friends four hours total to get up to the top and back down.

Photos by Karen Stewart

Pat Sheya will lead the 14th Annual Women’s Tetas de Cabra Climb on Thursday, February 19, 2009. I had heard about this climb for some time now, but I am always out of town the day of the climb or otherwise I would have considered it. Well, maybe.

When telling me about the climb, organizer Pat Sheya said that it is good to start training ahead of time and prepare for a long walk up the mountain. This I have long considered. Pat’s story of the first climb sounds fascinating.

In February 1996, Pat and three friends were discussing a climb up the mountain. They had hiked around the deserts of San Carlos, but none had attempted Tetakawai or “Tetas de Cabra.” Four women and one man made the first climb. Up the mountain they went, the women prepared with cameras, hats, water, snacks, etc. The man, a friend of Sheila’s, came with nothing, in fact years later no one even remembers his name. Sheila, who cannot weigh 98 pounds soaking wet, was loaded down with a video camera, battery pack, water and more.

Cindy brought lengths of red embroidery floss to use as markers on bushes to guide them all down. Billie reminded all to have gloves, good hiking boots or good shoes for hiking. Sheila’s friend, well he headed off up the trail ahead of the women, leaving them in his dust. The rain from the summer before caused the trail to be overgrown and poorly marked. There were false trails where others had made mistakes and backtracked marking the false trail even further.

After some backtracking and a few mistakes the four women stayed together and reached the tunnel at the top. There, awaiting them was the man. He had the gall to ask Sheila for some of her water. He was 78 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

thirsty! After helping himself to Sheila’s water, he took off down the mountain, not waiting for the women, just as he had done going up the mountain.

Pat, Sheila, Cindy and Billie realized what a wonderful experience they all shared together and decided that they would make the climb an annual event, of course, without men. Their views of San Carlos, the surrounding mountains and the sea were breathtaking and well worth the journey up. Pat relates to me, “The event is a happening, not a race or a contest of endurance or strength. It is a shared experience to rejoice in the breathtaking scenery, the grandeur that can only be seen from the top and the personal joy of being able to get there.”

In 2009, the climb will be the 14th for the second year in a row, because there was no 13th, just to be on the safe side. All ages are welcome; the youngest climber with the group was 16 years old, and the oldest 78 years young. It is a truly special event for all of the women that participate.

Would you like to know more about the climb?

Please contact Pat Sheya at 226-1117 or patle_ onsheya@yahoo.com. At the 2007 climb there were 33 ladies that started and 31 that made it up and back.

Two of the ladies did not realize how long it would take and had appointments that they did not want to miss so they left before completing the climb.

I belong to several clubs with Pat Sheya and I am intrigued by this lady. She has more energy than most women half her age. If you are lucky enough to make the climb and make the acquaintance of Pat, one of San Carlos’ most interesting people, you will be well rewarded.

San Carlos Puerto S/anGPC uaymas eñasco arlos, Sonora

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1er Cuarto: Luna LLena: 3er Cuarto: Luna Nueva:

2 9 16 24

http://oceanografia.cicese.mx/predmar MAR V0.7 2006 J.I. González

DIALING INSTRUCTIONS: USA to MX Cel Phone: 011+52+1+Area Code+(Tel #) USA to Mexico: 011+52+Area Code+(Tel #) Mexico to USA: 001+Area Code+(Tel #) MX Landline to MX Cell Phone: 045 or 044+Area Code+(Tel #) MX Cell Phone to MX Landline: Area Code+(Tel #) DIALING 800 NUMBER: 800 DIALING to the US From Mexico (dial 001+) To Dial USA 800................................ dial 880 To Dial USA 866................................ dial 883 To Dial USA 877................................ dial 882 To Dial USA 888................................ dial 881 IMPORTANT NUMBERS: MX 411 (Spanish only)............................ 040 Tourist Assistance Hotline....................... 076 Green Angels (MX toll Free).1-800-903-0092 Worldwide Emergency No.for Mobile is.. 112 Emergencies................................060 & 066 Sky Medical (from Mexico).001-866-805-9624 Air-E-Vac ....................... 001-880-321-9522

BUSINESS DIRECTORY (A-Z)

Fire Department/Departamento de Bomberos Fire Department.................................................................

PUER SAN TOCARLOS Pe ñasco

cms

0

100

Guaymas, Son.

CICESE

FEBRERO 2009

MEDICAL SERVICES/SERVICIOS MÉDICOS Ambulance.......................662-255-9181 or 662-253-0776 Clinica San Carlos........................................ 622-226-0062 CIMA Hospital.............................................. 662-259-0900 Surgical Medical Center................................ 662-222-0267

Adver tise your Business HERE! Only $55.00dlls POLICE/POLICÍA City Police Department . ....................................................

State Police........................................................................

Real Estate Long Realty Seaside.....................................622-226-2188 utilities/empresas de servicios públicos Power Company (CFE) ................................622-229 4400 Telmex.............................622-226-0026 or 622-226-0050 Water Co.(CEA)............................................622-226-0909

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 79

History & Culture

History of Mexico – The Spanish Conquest

by Ron Saunders

The Spanish Conquest of the Aztec Empire was one of the most important campaigns in the Spanish colonization of the Americas.

It was Diego Velázquez de Cuéllar, Spanish overlord of Cuba, who first laid the foundation for the conquest of Mexico. In 1517 and 1518 he commissioned explorations of the Yucatán coast and the Gulf of Mexico. Those explorers returned with tales of great wealth in the area; tales that prompted Velázquez to outfit Hernán Cortés to a voyage of conquest.

However, Velázquez knew that whoever conquered the land for Spain would receive the fame and glory.

Suspecting that Cortés would be disloyal, Velázquez went to the dock on the morning the ships were getting ready to sail to revoke Cortés’ commission.

But Cortés quickly set sail for Mexico; beginning his journey with the legal status of mutineer.

Cortés landed in Mexico on April 21, 1519.

Wasting no time in staking claim, Cortés founded the city of Vera Cruz and established a town council which, in turn, empowered him to conquer all of Mexico in the name of Charles I of Spain.

Conquering Mexico was no easy chore for Cortés, for he had not accounted for the might of Moctezuma, the feared Aztec lord who ruled over one of the most powerful forces in the Americas, as well as one of the most significant cultures in the history of civilization.

Moctezuma, uncertain about how to deal with the unwelcome strangers, sent Cortés a message warning him not to attempt the dangerous journey through deserts, mountains and enemy territories to reach the Aztec capital. Moctezuma also sent gifts 80 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

of gold and other Aztec finery that he hoped would satisfy Cortez enough to make him leave Mexico.

However, the gifts just whetted Cortez’s appetite for more riches.

Cortés, through his powers of persuasion, managed to forge an alliance with the Totonacs at Cempoala. Now, with his army of about 500 Europeans and thousands of Indian allies as soldiers and porters, Cortés pushed into central Mexico.

In an incredible campaign lasting more than two years, the conquistadors finally took the capital city of Tenochtitlan (Mexico City) on August 13, 1521.

With the fall of the Aztec Empire, the Spaniards quickly defeated and subjugated most of the other Indian tribes in southern Mexico. The only area where effective Indian resistance was encountered was Yucatán, then inhabited by the Maya tribes. Francisco de Montejo y Alverez undertook the conquest of this region in 1526, though it was nearly 20 years before the Spaniards won control of the northern end of the Yucatán.

The occupation of northern Mexico, less populated and largely arid, took longer than that of central and southern Mexico, requiring intensive fighting with nomadic tribes. Some Indians living in the interior retained their independence for another century and a half.

Not being part of the Aztec Empire, it took more than 170 years for the Spanish to establish control over the Maya homelands (extending from northern Yucatán to the central lowlands of El Petén and the southern Guatemalan highlands).

History & Culture

Teresita Local balladeer Eric Holland has written a captivating song entitled Teresita, about a green-eyed Yaqui Queen. In conversation with Holland, I found Teresita to be one of Sonora’s most interesting, but little known, historical figures. Her intoxicating story is a panoramic sweep about the clash of cultures, politics and corruption, religion and spirituality, love and heartbreak found in one extraordinary literary accomplishment entitled The Hummingbird’s Daughter, written by Mexico’s acclaimed writer Luis Urrea, of whom Teresita was his great-aunt.

Thousands of miles were traveled in the 20 years of research Urrea put into this epic fictitious novel that is rooted in historical truth.

Teresita was born in 1873 in Sinaloa when the fierce northern tribes were being systematically annihilated in a war of attrition. She was the illegitimate daughter of a wealthy rancher, Don Tomás Urrea. An involvement in a failed political maneuver to break President Diaz’s dictatorial grip on the country forced Urrea, under threat of death, to uproot the entire ranch and move to Sonora, where he owned two sprawling cattle ranches outside of Guaymas.

An old Indian woman, Huila, head of the ranch’s domestic staff, recognized the remarkable powers that Teresita would exhibit on occasion and taught her the use of herbs and plants. During midwifing rounds her remarkable gift of putting women in labor in a trance, so they could have painless childbirths, began to manifest itself.

In 1889 a ranch hand brutally assaulted Teresita and she died after 12 days in a coma. After lying in repose for three days, she suddenly sat up and was restored to life as the women prepared her body for burial. She claimed she had met God on the “other side” and would be given a gift of healing to help the poor and hopeless.

The Hummingbird's Daughter (Paperback)

by Luis Alberto Urrea

H I STOR Y & C ULTU R E

by Lynn Prince

As local curandera, her reputation flourished with the miracles that occurred. At times ten thousand people would be camped out on Cabora, the huge Urrea ranch, hoping for a healing touch from “Saint Teresita of Cabora.”

Death claimed her at the age of 33 and the Indians took her body to a crystal cave in the desert of Sonora where it is said her body lies uncorrupted and guarded by a cadre of elite Yaqui warriors to this day.

Teresita has not been forgotten by the people of Mexico and is still highly esteemed and honored in scores of communities.

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Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 81

People & Voices

Centavo’s Two Cents

My Funny Valentine

W

by Centavo

hen we were in grade school a box of Valentine cards meant everything during the month of February. Remember? They were in a slender box and usually had the favorite cartoon character of the day printed on each card. They were slim, discrete and there was enough for everyone in

the class.

“Would you be my Valentine?” . . . Mickey Mouse would be holding a heart with this saying . . . the small envelope clutched in eager hands waiting to be read. Since you received one from everyone in the class, the cards in elementary school were insignificant… but fun!

Of course, as we grew older and more selective, Valentine cards became the popularity “ticket” to reckless junior high behavior. By high school—well you know—devastation and “drama.” Yeah . . . you didn’t get the card.

So here’s to all who waited and never received that special Valentine.

Fourteen Things For You To Love In San Felipe 1. The sunrises and the setting sun . . . unbelievable colors!

2. Snow on the mountains after a heavy rain and cold weather! (You don’t have to shovel it, just enjoy it.)

3. Tequila in shot glasses, salt and lime!!!

Sublime!

4. The Lions Club, The Rotary Club, ZAPP, Las Amigas, and all the organizations that give back to our communities.

5. The four-lane highway continuing from San Felipe back up to Mexicali.

6. The stores that supply us with the American foods that we crave!

7. The best exercise in the world . . . picking up shells and walking the endless beaches.

8. The friendliness of our entire community.

9. The local fishermen in their pangas that take you fishing (sometimes you catch a fish with every cast).

10. Shrimp Season . . . and Maine lobster from the fish monger.

11. Finding out that your decision to move here was the best one you made since the ‘60s.

12. Mexico Living Guide because it provides information on local events and real estate.

82 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

It has fascinating articles, and enlightens us as to why Baja is a great place to vacation or retire.

13. Friends and family that keep a smile on your face and theirs as they visit your Baja home.

14. That every day that you are here using the Internet and viewing the ocean . . . you are not in an office. …and (sing this like the 12th day of you know what) …and a dove in a Palo Verde tree!

So it’s February, the company is gone, the sea winds are shifting and that exclusive Valentine something that happened—or didn’t—will be forgotten. You can get back to your routine and return to the calm and tranquility that you deserve. After all, you survived the Christmas holidays and visits from relatives.

You already “fudged” on your New Year’s resolutions and you finally recognized that it is no longer necessary to weigh yourself ever again!

The Leprechauns will soon be out in the bars, sneaking around looking for pots o’ gold and rainbows. If you see one, send them to my house…

I’ll be out of Tequila.

People & Voices

An American in Baja: IRENE

by Audrey Coffman

assume it’s time to tone it down a little, or maybe a lot.

Not Irene, God bless her. Short-shorts, cut-offs, tank tops, chandelier earrings: There are few rules down here. Being “appropriately” dressed is a state of mind best left back at the border. But, Irene accessorizes well, and, Girlfriend, I love that chile pepper navel ornament. It’s all good, ‘cause it’s all fun.

Dancing is one of her favorite things, and she lives in a perfect place to do just that. San Felipe, with its fiestas, fund-raisers and party venues, throbs with music. She does a nifty jitterbug when she can find a partner worthy of her, but mostly she wings it… alone or with anyone else she can drag out on the floor. Her chin moves in and out, keeping time and never missing a beat. Her steps are precise but her spirit is freestyle.

I don’t know anything about how she became the woman she is today, except that she’s been married a few times. Any children? Probably. Any heartbreak?

Certainly. Where is she from and how did she end up down here? Honestly, I would never ask her, anymore than she would ask these questions of me.

It just doesn’t matter in the Baja. The only credentials anyone needs to be welcome here are friendliness and authenticity. Having a heart as big as Irene’s doesn’t hurt either. Wedgies aren’t a requirement, but they help a little. Wedgies and a chile pepper navel ring.

Rock on, Irene.

PEOPL E & VOI C ES

Irene has tattoos.

There are quite a few, and each one is a work of art. She took the time to explain many of them to me one night at Al’s, a local bar popular with us transplanted Americans.

Now, Al’s has black walls, black ceiling and little illumination.

Imagine touring the Irene Louvre in the dark with a tiny Bic lighter.

I’m hoping to run into Irene soon, outside and in the bright sunlight, because I couldn’t see much that night.

She’s a petite woman, but hard to describe. She keeps changing something about herself every time I see her. Sometimes her short hair is pink; sometimes it’s spiked. I would almost swear that she has grown even more bodacious since we first met. I’m sure she’s added a few more piercings too. Perched daintily on her wedgies, her favorite footwear, she has great presence and self-confidence.

When we women reach “that certain age”, some

Beware: Insecticides and Plants can be Fatal to Pets

by Steven Forman, ZAPP Spay/Neuter Project, San Felipe

Each month the writers for Mexico Living Magazine dig deep for creative ideas that tie into the monthly

theme of the upcoming issue. This month, however, is a no-brainer for me. The theme of the February issue is house and garden, and unfortunately, I have had some friends with small breed dogs and puppies who have encountered some serious health problems resulting from the ingestion of insecticides and plants here in San Felipe.

Last year, a good friend watched as her eight week old Pomeranian puppy died violently after the dog was exposed to pesticides sprayed at her house--even though the exterminator assured her the product was safe. And just a few weeks ago, other friends had their seven pound Chihuahua mix exposed to insecticide on their property. The dog became very ill, began throwing up, became lethargic, and they thought they were going to lose her. Quick thinking Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 83

People & Voices

took them to the vet where she was put on an IV extremely vulnerable, and I promise you, when living drip so that she didn’t get too dehydrated; very quick, in another country like Mexico, we need to do the smart thinking. due diligence, and be responsible for our choices, no Had they not done that, she probably would have matter what anyone tells you. died. It was touch and go for five or six days, and Dr. Steven Hansen, veterinary toxicologist and during that period, no matter what ASPCA Senior Vice President, has done the research, and they fed her, she threw it up. Now, this is a dog that has had all her here is a list of plants that Be especially careful are the most common and shots, so we knew we weren’t potentially dangerous to your dealing with Parvo or Distemper, before you decide to pets. Lilies, Sago Palm, Tulip/ which are usually fatal diseases in spray your house, or Narcissus bulbs, Azalea/ puppies and small dogs under four Rhododendron, Oleander, pounds. After lots of intravenous hire an exterminator.”

Castor Bean, Cyclamen, fluids, electrolytes and Nutri-Cal, a hi-calorie, thick toothpaste type Kalanchoe, Yew, Amaryllis, product that comes in a tube, she began to round the Autumn Crocus, Chrysanthemum, English Ivy, corner and survived.

Peace Lily (AKA Mauna Loa Peace Lily), Pothos She is back to normal now, but I assure you, that and Schefflera.

This list might shed some light on why your small this is the exception to the rule. Dogs, puppies and kittens that are most vulnerable, are often very small, dogs experience gastric problems, diarrhea and with very tiny young immune systems that absolutely vomiting from time to time, with no rhyme or reason. do not tolerate toxins, such as insecticides and some Although not fatal, these symptoms might very well be related to these plants and most importantly to very popular, innocent looking plants.

Be especially careful before you decide to spray dangerous insecticides. Remember, small breeds, your house, or hire an exterminator. Do some and young puppies and kittens are especially research, check the internet, find out what the vulnerable. Contact ZAPP at bajaanimalrescue@ active ingredients are in the product you or your yahoo.com, or www.sfzapp.blogspot.com. exterminator is using. Your precious animals are

“

84 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Arts & Design of Mexico

Aida Valencia

An Example of Generosity and Passion for Life

Title: Mi Juguete Technique: Smalti and tiffany glass Media: Sculpture

murals, antique doors, contemporary fireplaces, mandalas with philosophical messages, along with sculptures in small and large formats. In this article it is impossible to count the rich creative diversity that has immerged from her inspiration.

Recently she won first prize in a contest organized

by SAMA (Society of American Mosaic Artists) and on exhibit at the Mingei International Museum in Balboa Park, San Diego, CA; approximately 200 artists participated from 7 distinct countries. The exposition will open to the public in February and is titled “Mosaic International” for these award winning pieces. Aida Valencia deservingly won first place with the sculpture piece titled Imagination and Magic, from mixed techniques of glass and wrought iron and with this masterpiece, she closes an important circle in manifestation of creating, after many years of effort and commitment with herself, in expressing that which is in her heart. This transcendent accomplishment will also give her an important projection, not only in Baja California but as well as a universal level. A few days ago I asked her, “What is your mission as an artist?” and she answered, “Through my art, to be able to make people smile, feel and demand changes.”

Congratulations Aida, we love you and you are our pride and joy.

AR TS & DESI GN

It was a cold winter in 2003. For some reason I visited Aida’s studio in Tijuana… She had just arrived from attending a course in Italy. After exchanging some ideas in relationship to our artistic projects, it occurred to me to invite her to participate in giving a ceramic workshop to a community of women in Bahia de Los Angeles; which is located 300 miles south of Ensenada on the Sea of Cortes coast of Baja California. Even though exhausted from her trip to and from Europe, upon hearing my invitation for contributing with this community of women, she didn’t doubt for one moment in accepting – I would like to note that this was the first time that she and I met and spoke of these ideas. We said goodbye in Tijuana and three weeks later, while I was giving a workshop in “cachorologia” (lizard making techniques) in Bahia de Los Angeles, I suddenly saw arrive, an enormous pick up loaded with art material… with six people onboard. It was Aida Valencia and five of her assistants and a complete load of hundreds of dollars in ceramic material to be donated to this same community. She kept her word and with all her enthusiasm, she gave one of the most creative and fun filled art workshops that these women had received; even to this day.

Aida Valencia is one of the most well diverse artists in all of Baja California. With the usage of ceramic and mosaic, marble, glass, metals and rock with different techniques and finishings. She can create the most wonderful art pieces; such as Venetian

by Alfonso Arambula, AlfonsoArambula.com

Aida Valencia, casavalencia.com, cava2006@prodigy. net.mx, 664 686-5490, US 619 654-9944

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 85

Explore, Discover, Get Out and See Mexico

Puertecitos Sulfer Hot Springs

By Julia and Carlos Bono of Sahuaros Realty

Puertecitos is located 90 kilometers or 52 miles south of San Felipe, down the newly-improved San Felipe-Puertecitos road. This seaside campo, which currently consists mostly of abandoned trailers and seaside bungalows, was founded in 1949 by Rafael Orozco and is one of the main attractions of this part of northern Baja due to it being host to one of the most beautiful natural hot springs that we have visited.

Puertecitos is not big on amenities, so we suggest bringing what you’ll be consuming with you. Just before the entrance, there is a Pemex gas station, which was nearly completed a few years back and may never be open, a small general store (Abarrotes Las Palmas), and a drinking water outlet. The Cow Patty is a creatively decorated bar located about a mile north of the campo on the west side of the road, if you want to enjoy a drink with the locals.

In addition to the hot springs, the campo of Puertecitos offers palapa camping, a sandy beach, toilets and a restaurant. It also has a dirt airstrip for adventurous pilots. We spoke to two pilots from Colorado who had landed their small planes in Puertecitos to enjoy the springs on their aeronautical trip further south. A gatekeeper usually collects $10 per car at the entrance, but if he’s not there, he usually catches up with you later at the springs if you drive in.

The hot springs are located a short drive from the campo entrance on a medium-quality dirt road. Go past the camping area to its left, toward the residential area, and once in the residential area, generally stay to the right at just about every fork in the dirt road except when you see the marked entrance to the springs on the left.

When arriving at the springs for the first time, all you can see are rocks leading to the sea, but on closer examination, you will discern several pools nestled among the rocks. They have varying degrees of temperature, depending on the tidal level and the pool’s proximity to the springs and the sea. Be very careful to test the water before you enter since at low tide the pools are hot enough to burn. We also 86 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Travel & Road Trips Around Mexico

T R AVEL & ROAD TR I P S

s

Photo by Julia and Carlos Bono of Sahuaros Realty

recommend consulting a tide calendar, since the best time for using these natural springs is about mid-tide in order for the thermal and sea water to mix for a comfortable soak. For example, when high tide was at 1:30 p.m., the springs were too hot at 11 a.m. and perfect at noon. At high tide, the tubs are submerged, and are not much warmer than the sea.

The combination of sea water and geothermal sulfur spring water make these springs especially unique, and people have told us that the water has therapeutic properties for them. One elder gentleman testified that he had made a special trip to Puertecitos from Washington state because the healing waters relieved his arthritis and allowed him much greater movement in his hands.

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 87

Explore, Discover, Get Out and See Mexico

Traveling the Road to El Golfo

by Russ Black

Credit: Sonora, Gobierno del Estado

So there we were—John, Vicki , Austin, Braden, Naomi and I—sitting in the Las Conchas Restaurant in El Golfo de Santa Clara on a chilly December 21, 2008. What in the world were we doing here? How did we wind up in this place, drinking beer and having a good time?

The day before we were all sitting around in Puerto Peñasco wondering what El Golfo was like. What is there? Traveling on the new road, how long would it really take us to get there from Puerto Peñasco? What would we see when we got there? These questions intrigued each of us, so we made an agreement that we would take the new highway north out of Peñasco and visit El Golfo. We had heard that the new road was complete and now could easily be driven even with a two-wheel drive. My wife, Naomi, and I are somewhat skeptic when it comes to listening to others' ideas about road conditions and such. So we just had to see it for ourselves before we report to others. On that cool, sunny Sunday we left Peñasco at about 1 p.m. and arrived in El Golfo at about 2:20. Just one hour and twenty minutes later! The road was great, the scenery is outstanding, and the company was great. All the perfect ingredients for a grand day out.

Along the way it is hard to convey how incredible it is to be driving down a brand new road to a new place, to explore and enjoy life. Yes the road is smooth, it is perfectly aligned and travels without any stress to the driver. It goes beyond that though; the incredible views, the cliffs to the 88 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

sea, the little dirt roads going off to who knows where towards the Pinacate range. These are all things we could never have experienced in a 15-passenger van before this road was open.

I am here to report with glee and enthusiasm that the road is indeed finished, it is a smooth and easily traversed route. It is truly the gateway for Peñasco to the great state of California. Tourists have long traveled to El Golfo from southern California for weekend trips (or longer). Now these same tourists have an option: Stop in El Golfo? Or, perhaps do what we did and travel to a place they have never been before—just to see what it is like (i.e., Peñasco).

Only time will tell if this new route to Southern California will be all it has been promised. But from my firsthand point of view, once you travel the road, it will be the road of choice if you are traveling to California or to the Baja. Buen Viaje.

T R AVEL & ROAD TR I P S

Travel & Road Trips Around Mexico

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Real Estate & Development

Cholla Bay In Puerto Peñasco:

Ten Reasons To Purchase Property In Cholla Bay Puerto Peñasco – Cholla Bay is a vital beachfront community located about five miles from downtown Puerto Peñasco, with unique attributes that command the attention of buyers who want the best that Mexico has to offer.

1. Land is less expensive than in other beachfront communities. Beachfront properties are particularly good values, especially as compared to other communities.

2. Every property in Cholla Bay is a short walk to the water. You cannot get further than a 10-minute walk to a beach access, no matter where in the community your home is located!

3. Cholla Bay will always be primarily lowdensity development. There are some tall single-family homes in Cholla, and a few townhomes built close together, but there are no provisions for condo towers or other highdensity development.

4. Cholla Bay is a peninsula; with limited land available, your investment is sure to provide excellent future returns. As demand for property close to the water increases, Cholla will become even more valuable.

5. Properties of every type, in every price range, are available in Cholla Bay. Purchase a new or older home, buy a lot and build your dream home, or apply your talent to a fixer-upper.

6. Cholla is a great place for boaters. Boats can be both affordably launched, and stored “dry” after use, right in Cholla Bay.

by Gretchen

Cholla Aerial Photo from West

7. Cholla Bay has an active, interested, helpful homeowner association, with low annual fees, and a clubhouse that is used for community events, and private activities as well.

8. Cholla Bay is a community, rather than just a tourist resort. Full-time Mexican and American residents are joined by weekend/vacation owners from several countries, and all care about each other and their community.

9. Cholla Bay has good restaurants, a cantina, civic organizations, a local charity, a variety of services and great people.

10. The “bay” is one of the world’s most unique estuary environments, with extreme tides, fascinating sea life, and affords unlimited water sport and recreation opportunities.

Drive out to Cholla Bay, about a mile west of the Reef, and visit this community to which so many people have been devoted, in some cases for generations. You just might fall under the spell of Cholla Bay!

Playa del Paraiso is on the move

by Eric Garcia

San Felipe - Over the last 90 days Playa del Paraiso construction has been moving forward and there has been a lot of activity. They’ve now connected the main sewer line to the city sewer system to serve the entire project and the final connection for city water should be completed within days. The electrical connections are now completed and awaiting city connection.

The interior drywall installation is nearly completed with doors and windows, bath and floor tile, and kitchen cabinets are being installed. The exterior is prepared for paint. The first two elevators are to be 90 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

installed once the power from the city is completed.

The designs for the pool, parking and common area are in final review and pool equipment room modification is under construction now.

Playa del Paraiso is committed to unparalleled design and craftsmanship, and feel they will be the premier condo/hotel with the finest accommodations San Felipe has to offer. You can obtain additional information at www.playadelparaiso.com.

Northwest Mexico Real Estate

Ejidos in Mexico

Ejido land system and how to have ownership

be canceled from said Registry. The Registry shall issue the corresponding land title that will be recorded with the Registry of Public Records and Commerce corresponding to the location of these lands. At this moment, the ejido land is transformed into private ownership.

We find that in San Felipe there are two ejidos; to the north of town we find the Ejido “Plan Nacional Agrario” and to the south, we find the Ejido “Delicias.” Fortunately, both of these ejidos have the “Full Domain” status and thus its land parcels can be privatized.

Fernando Antonio Aguilar, Esq. Corporativo Aguilar/ Lexcorp Abogados antonio@corporativoaguilar.com, imam1948@hotmail.com. Calz. Justo Sierra y Honduras 377-6, Cuauhtemoc Sur, Centro Comercial La Plazita, Mexicali, Baja California, C.P. 21200. Office phones (686) 568-2541, 42 & 46, Mobile Phone:(686) 569-1309 or 233 Paulin Avenue, 92231, Apt. 5830, Calexico, CA, www.corporativoaguilar.com Nextel Direct Connect 152*131214*1

R EAL ESTATE

SAN FELIPE - In Mexico, village lands communally held in the traditional Indian system of land tenure that combine communal ownership with individual use is the traditional interpretation of an “ejido.” The ejido consists of cultivated land, pastureland, other uncultivated lands and the fundo legal (townsite). In most cases the cultivated land is divided into separate family holdings.

Approximately 70 percent of Mexico´s territory is found to be under an ejido type of ownership. An ejido can also be “privatized” or can be transformed into private ownership. This procedure is not that complicated and involves essentially two steps that need to be taken. First of all, the ejido Assembly can resolve that the ejido itself adopts the full domain regarding their land parcels, complying with what is provided for in the Agrarian Law. Once the Assembly has adopted said resolution, the interested ejido land holders can also, at the moment that they deem pertinent, assume the full domain regarding their land parcels. To do this, the land holders must request from the National Agrarian Registry that these lands

by Fernando Antonio Aguilar, Esq.

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Little things to do while relaxing

BRAIN GAMES

Exercising your brain and getting your “laugh on” are two very important requirements of “Living the Good Life.” Plus, these games and puzzles are great while waiting at the border or terminal. To maximize the benefits of brain exercises you should relax, laugh often, be of good cheer, and stay curious.

92 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

K

J

January 5-11, 2009

BR AI N GAMES

SUDOKU

Brain Games & Fun

Get more info:

1. TELEVISION: In “Murphy Brown,” what was the name of the TV show that included the title character, played by Candice Bergen?

2. GAMES: What color is the cue ball in the game of pool?

3. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: What is the source of the drug digitalis?

4. THEATER: The Tony Awards were named after which director/actress?

5. LANGUAGE: What is the British term for “baloney” or nonsense?

6. COMPUTERS: What does the acronym FORTRAN stand for?

7. OLYMPICS: In what event would the “Fosbury flop” be used?

8. ANATOMY: What is the result of the condition called dysphasia?

9. GEOGRAPHY: The term “pyroclastic flow” would follow what kind of natural geographical occurrence?

10. FOOD & DRINK: What would a serving dish called a tureen be used for?

Answers www.mexicoliving.info - 93 1. “FYI” 2. White

1. W Lynyr name 2. W and T 3. H Solom 1961 Reach 4. N 100 h 5. N who h a Man

1. B the b the N their nerd their J schoo Skyny the r album 2.

Theo munk three their s Be L voice man, 1958 voice recor 3. B

More Great Information

CLASSIFIED ADS NON BUSINESS ADS ARE FREE up to 20 words, each additional word is $.50.

BUSINESS &REAL ESTATE ADS are $0.50 per word. SEND ALL CLASSIFIED ADS TO MEXICOLIVING@GMAIL.COM with “CLASSIFIED ADS” in the subject line.

Once your e-mail is received, you will get a confirmation e-mail and invoice returned.

WORK IN THE MAGAZINE BUSINESS

Mexico Living is looking for motivated individuals for freelance positions in the Rosarito, B.C., Ensenada, B.C., San Felipe, B.C., Mexicali, B.C., Puerto Peñasco, SON., San Carlos, SON. Writers - Do you love Mexico and want to help us spread the word.

We’re looking for writers to cover business, real estate, news, local gossip, travel, recreation, arts and entertainment and much more.

Sales - Advertising sales position.

Have fun and make money while getting to know people. Great commissions and opportunities.

Must be legal to work in Mexico and have Internet access.

Distribution - Manage local and

regional routes with twice monthly deliveries. Earn a great income on a part-time bases. Must be legal to work in Mexico and have reliable transportation.

Send inquiries to packmagazines@gmail.com AUTOMOTIVE 1985 Ford Bronco MX Plates $1800 dlls call 868-184-9237 2001 Dodge Neon SC/Auto $2000dlls call 686-184-9237 ANNOUNCEMENTS SAN FELIPE Narcotics anonymous. English Speaking Recovery Meetings every Tuesday Night at 6pm. Meeting held in the House on the Corner of Mar Caribe & Ensenada in San Felipe contact: 577-2708 or 686-122-6365 for more info.

San Felipe Lions Club. Meetings held on the first and last Thursday of the month at 6PM at Los Arcos restaurant in San Felipe.

“Help Fix My Broken Jaw” local Lisa broke her jaw in an ATV accident a year ago, and insurance will not cover her treatment. Visit her blog: http://mybrokenjaw.blogspot.com/ to learn more.

Ampi real estate association holds a mixer every month on the 2nd Wednesday starting at 5:00 p.m. the event is for the purpose of meeting and networking with other Puerto Penasco professionals. All are welcome membership is not required to attend, We look forward to seeing you at the next mixer!

February 11, 2009 at 5:00 p.m.

Chango’s restaurant in front of the Sonoran sea resort. Chango’s will have drink and appetizer specials.

Any questions, please call Liane at 638-107-7164.

JOBS ROSARITO & ENSENADA, B.C. Sales position with Mexico Living in Rosarito and Ensenada email packmagazines@gmail.com

ENTERTAINMENT SAN FELIPE, B.C.

Distribution position in La Paz and Cabo San Lucas with Mexico Living email packmagazines@gmail.com.

The BEST Karaoke in town at Juanito’s Cantina hosted by Maria Arnold; Thursday nights 6:00pm.

Come and sing like a STAR!

REAL ESTATE LISTINGS SAN FELIPE, B.C.

FOR SALE SAN FELIPE, B.C. 1996 Prowler trailer. $5,000obo.

Sleeps 6, Kitchen fold out bed, futon bed, bonus small child bed ( or storage) & full size bed w/ private room. Shower, Microwave, new re-built fridge. Interior is in good condition and has been very well maintained, leveling jacks are installed. 001-760-801-7102 or Kkrusing1@sbcglobal.net Baja Mija Popcorn Dust, flavored toppings for microwave popcorn: email for information bajamija@ gmail.com New Bosch stackable washer & dryer. $500 for the set. Rebuilt water pump for cistern $175 686-187-7795

94 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

List your property for only $0.50 a word.

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000-000-0000.

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More Great Information Sandy Beach Resort Blvd. Parcel For Sale- 1817sm. Perfect for Commercial / Residential Development, enjoy Views of Ocean & Golf Course. $349,000 Contact Century 21 Sun & Sand Jim Ringquist 638-388-1295 or 480-626-4687

views. Furnished 2bd, 2 ba home in a secure development has just been reduced from $260K to $230,000.

Leave message at 661-614-3019 or 619-573-4034, or email: bajayadayada@gmail.com, for viewing.

Las Conchas Luxurious Home5br/5ba The finest Interior finishings and attention to detail!

Fully furnished Offered at $975,000 Contact Century 21 Sun & Sand Bernardo Sanchez 638-388-1295 or 480-626-4687

RENTAL LISTINGS Rosarito B.C

Rosarito B.C

NO PEEKING UNTIL YOU HAVE AT LEAST TRIED

ANSWERS FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

Home For Sale on Rosarito’s Gold Coast The best location, location, location at Descanso (Km. 55 TJEns. toll road) w/ ocean and mtn.

a Man Winner of Best Beach for two which director/actress? years in a row! Enjoy the Cove 5. LANGUAGE: What is 1. Ba and Beach by the day, week or the 20British for the ba words or term less for FREE month. Email vcantu@thegrid.net “baloney” or nonsense? the N 686-230-9933 for information.

6. COMPUTERS: What

SUDOKU ANSWERS

KINGS CROSS ANSWERS

LIST YOUR ITEM

does the acronym FORTRAN stand for?

7. OLYMPICS: In what event would the “Fosbury flop” be used?

8. ANATOMY: What is the result of the condition called dysphasia?

9. GEOGRAPHY: The term “pyroclastic flow” would follow what kind of natural geographical occurrence?

10. FOOD & DRINK: What would a serving dish called a tureen be used for?

Answers TRIVIA ANSWERS 1. “FYI” 2. White 3. The foxglove flower 4. Antoinette Perry 5. Codswallop 6. Computer programming language that stands for FORmula TRANslation 7. High jump 8. Impairment of speech and verbal comprehension 9. Volcanic eruption 10. Soup or stew

MAGIC MAZE ANSWERS

CL ASSI FI ED

Playa Encanto Fractional Offering.

6br/4ba, 3,244sf interior plus 2,000sf terrace. 6 fireplaces, wet bar, fully furnished, so many extras. Offered at $269,000 Contact Century 21 Sun & Sand Dennis Foreman 638-388-1295 or 480-626-4687

Beautiful two bedroom, two bath, large corner landscaped yard with 1.three TELEVISION: covered patios. FullyIngated 1. W and withBrown,” garage and drive-through what was Lynyr Large House for rent. 2 bedrooms, “Murphy Great mountain name of thesea TVandshow 2 baths, furnished, fireplace, thedriveway. name? view. $249,000.

686-109-2437 garden, carport, view, big porch that included theCall title char2. W llocated in La Mision. $650 per acter, played by Candice SERVICE and Th month. MX 646-155-0011 or US Bergen?

3. H Service and 619-270-8991 2.AC/Refrigeration GAMES: What color is Evaluation by qualified, certified Solom cue ballCell in number the game of Baja Malibu. Cute furnished studio thetechnician.

(686) 1961 with DISH TV and utilities included. pool?

231-4921.

Reach Walk to beach, secure and private 3. GENERAL KNOWL4. N $260 mo. 646-614-1270 WANTED EDGE: What is the source 100 hi all digitalis? and any vehicles of Wanted the drug SAN FELIPE B.C. 5. N or not $$$.The Please call 4.working THEATER: Tony who h “Casita for rent at Cantu’s Cove, Awards 686-173-0424 ask for Ray. were named after

their n nerd a their J schoo Skyny the re album 2.

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“Tonig stayed weeks 5.

(1966 (1991 the so

© 2009 King Features Synd., Inc.

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