Edition 22 - March 2009

$20 MEX / $3.00 USA No. 22 - www.mexicoliving.info

March / marcha 2009

Tecate SCORE San Felipe 250

The Art of

Tequila

Calexico Border Update

Blues and Arts Fiesta Entertainment Rocks in San Carlos

LIVE • WORK • PLAY • INVEST • RETIRE

Welcome to Northwest Mexico

NORTHWEST MEXICO

2 - 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 - 3

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.

Mark your calendar for the 3rd Anniversary for the Blues & Arts Fiesta! This year we have more bands and more artists than every before, making this the biggest charity event in northern Baja, maybe western Mexico.

This is a very special event that will take your breath away. I encourage anyone with 5 hours of San Felipe Baja California to make the effort to get down here. If you are not here, you are missing out on a great time and an opportunity for you to help an entire community. Plus the music, art and weather is perfect.

See page 13 for a preview of Blues & Arts Fiesta 2009 and we hope to see you here. www.bluesandarts.com 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 Regional Sales Associates Carlos Duran Rosarito Beach carlos@mexicoliving.info Bill Maine San Felipe bill@mexicoliving.info Russ Black Puerto Peñasco russ@mexicoliving.info Lynn Prince San Carlos lynnprinceformlg@gmail.com Distribution Gene & Darcy Jensen, Regional Carlos Duran, Gold Coast Russ Black, Puerto Penasco Bill Maine, San Felipe

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, and Christa Thomas.

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

$20 MEX / $3.00 USA No. 22 - www.mexicoliving.info

March / marcha 2009

Tecate SCORE San Felipe 250

The Art of

Tequila

Calexico Border Update

Blues and Arts Fiesta Entertainment Rocks

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

in San Carlos

LIVE • WORK • PLAY • INVEST • RETIRE

Cover image of ATV Baja 250 rider was taken by Fotografia Alvarez.

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 Photo by Francisco Romo Victorio

Table of Contents

Welcome: Letters to the Editor..............................................6 Mexico Living Contributors...................................7 Welcome to the Northwest.................................10 Blues and Arts Fiesta........................................13 Calendar & Events: Calendar Dates...................................................18 St. Patrick’s Day Dinner at Club Deportivo..........18 New CD Release................................................19 Walk with Me.....................................................20 Powerful and Joyful Flamenco Performance.......22 Guaymas Celebrated..........................................22 Art & Design: Shaman of Paquimé...........................................23 Galleria Bellas Artes Hosts Show........................23 News Briefs: Calexico Border Update......................................24 San Felipe News Briefs.......................................26 Mexican Billionaire Bails Out NY Times...............27 First Meeting Between Calderón and Obama.......27 Historic Investment of $115.3 Million.................27 Rosarito Beach: Welcome to Rosarito Beach........................... 28 Visit Your Local Applebee’s Grill and Bar........ 30 Rosarito’s “Get Up and Go!”.......................... 32 Local Surgeon Saves My Life........................ 33

Tecate SCORE San Felipe 250 Page 46

Puerto Peñasco: Welcome to Puerto Peñasco..............................64 Dining Off the Beaten Path..................................66 Shaping Dreams Into Room................................69 The Art of Tequila...............................................70 March Around Town with Tom and Rita...............73 San Carlos: Welcome to San Carlos......................................76 Garden Room.....................................................77 Entertainment Rocks..........................................78 Semana Santa Beach Fiesta...............................80 People & Voices: An American in Baja: Bill....................................83 Centavo’s Two Cents..........................................84 Baja Blunders.....................................................85 Travel & Road Trips: Acapulco...........................................................86 The Less-Traveled Road.....................................87

WELCOME / BIENNVENIDO

Page 13

Real Estate: Open House Tessoro..........................................88 El Mirador..........................................................90 .........................................................................91 Brain Games.....................................................92 Classified..........................................................94

San Carlos Entertainment Page 78

Ensenada: Welcome to Ensenada................................... 35 Sano’s Steak House...................................... 37 Viña de Liceaga............................................ 38 San Felipe: Welcome to San Felipe.......................................42 Tecate SCORE San Felipe 250............................46 San Felipe Scene................................................50 Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 5

Provided by Mark Mulligan

Blues and Arts Fiesta

Photo by Denny Flannigan

EACH SECTION IS COLOR CODED ON THE RIGHT MARGIN

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

The Blues & Arts Fiesta and You! For the last two years, it has been the pleasure of Mexico Living and Rachel and myself to co-promote John and Rachel Pack the San Felipe Blues & Arts Fiesta alongside the San Felipe BC Lions Club. This event has given us a unique opportunity to meet interesting people, listen to amazing music and see some spectacular art, and most importantly be a part of something as special as this event and the good that comes from it.

What many people don’t realize is that this is a charity fundraiser and all the funds go the community; its medical needs, the needs of the children and less fortunate families. Last year, because of this event, the Lions Club was able to provide over a half million dollars in medical equipment to the clinics and doctors in San Felipe. They also have free eye clinics scheduled throughout the year in a joint effort of the Lions Club, California Optical and The Flying Samaritans of Modesto, California; and with the help of a large donation by the San Felipe Rotary, they are dispensing to those in need and unable to afford

Letters to the Editor

quality vision care, optical exams and glasses.

The main project is “The Sonshine Hacienda.”

The Sonshine Hacienda is a work in progress to provide a home for children at risk because of abuse, neglect, abandonment or who have been orphaned. It will provide a home for 50 children and help them to grow to be physically, mentally and spiritually stronger.

The Flying Samaritans is another project made possible by this event. The Flying Samaritans is group of dedicated doctors, nurses and pilots that fly to San Felipe three times a year to donate their time and expertise, at their own expense, to help those in need. This year they did hundreds of eye examinations and dispensed more than 740 pairs of eyeglasses and performed 47 surgical procedures, all free of charge.

All of this and more is made possible by funds raised at the Blues & Arts Fiesta, so when you’re listening to the award-winning blues bands and exploring the vast array of art and sculpture, you can feel good that this amazing event is being made possible by you. Thank you for supporting the 3rd Annual Blues & Arts Fiesta, an event that changes lives through music and art.

SEND US FEEDBACK

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

BOOBAR Cantina

Dear Mexico Living, Hello, I would like to know why there never is anything said about the BOOBAR cantina in Rocky Point? That place is always rocking! I’ve been to places like the Thirsty Parrot and Al Capones, but nothing compares to the atmosphere of the BOOBAR! Please go and see for yourself! And by the way, you have to “spin” the wheel!

Jose, Puerto Peñasco Jose, we’ll go ahead and print this plug because we empathize and understand—promote, promote, promote! That being said, we mention all we can. We can assume that this letter is referring to the January “Best Of” edition. My suggestion is to have the Boobar call Russ Black (see masthead) and he can talk about advertising; let our readers know who they want to be best next year. Campaign to the voters!

6 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Paid Circulation

Dear Mexico Living, I love Mexico Living on my porch with a cold cervesa and read it every month. I heard you are going to charge, is this true? I hope you’re not going to go crazy.

Denise, San Felipe We’re already crazy, and, yes, paid circulation is a must for Mexico Living. Our choice was to become a generic newspaper or keep the current format—we chose the latter. We wouldn’t get U.S. distribution as a newspaper and we felt our guide needs to remain color and compact size. We do promise to keep it about the price of a cervesa, and we know you can afford a cervesa… right?

Our Contributors

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

Welcome to Northwest Mexico Audrey Coffman, San Felipe – East Coast born and raised, Audrey has done a lot of things and lived in a lot of places. She’s had many different careers, raised two kids and is in love with Baja and the people who have made it their home.

Ron Saunders, San Felipe – A native New Yorker, until 1986 when he relocated to Colorado. In 2003 he moved to Baja California.

Ron is a member of Editorial Photographers and a charter member of the San Felipe Fine Arts Association.

Alfonso Arambula – An art and English teacher and highly awarded artist. He is the artist for FOX Studios in Rosarito, a Member of the Advisory Committee for the Culture Institute of Baja California and has been featured on the Discovery Channel.

Russ and Naomi Black, Puerto Peñasco – Russ and Naomi grew up in Phoenix, AZ, and have been married for over 26 years. They owned Peñasco RV Club and conducted RV Caravan tours in Northern Mexico for many years.

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.

Gretchen Ellinger, Puerto Peñasco – Known for her expertise in foreigner ownership of Mexican property and her love of Puerto Peñasco and Mexico. She lives and works in Cholla Bay, and shares her adventurous spirit in her articles.

Centavo – aka Pamela Esther Nask (“Penny”).

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.

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.

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

Rita Pizarro, Puerto Peñasco – In addition to freelance writing, Rita also offers vacation rentals by owner, massage, home inspections, yoga, kite surfing, pet sitting and adventure camps. It seems like a lot, but it fits her active lifestyle.

Carlos and Julia Bono, San Felipe – Carlos and Julia moved to San Felipe from the San Francisco Bay area. Today, they are proprietors of the Sahuaros.net Internet Café in San Felipe, where they offer Internet, English/Spanish translation and more.

Linda Shiflett, San Carlos / Guaymas – Originally from Spokane, WA, Linda and her husband, Mike, moved to San Carlos in 2007.

Linda keeps busy with several local organizations, including the San Carlos DAR Chapter that she organized in 2007.

Steven Forman, San Felipe – Nicknamed “DogMan” by folks around San Felipe, Steven Forman came to San Felipe in 2003. Steven says the reason he came to San Felipe was to get involved in humane animal work.

Lynn Prince, San Carlos / Guaymas – Lynn is a researcher and freelance journalist, and the fundraising event coordinator for Casa de Hogar orphanage in Guaymas. She was the feature editor and staff writer for the San Carlos Times/Tribune.

Bob Ham, San Felipe – In 2006, Bob was inducted into the Off Road Motorsports Hall of Fame. He now works for Imperial County and is responsible for transportation planning efforts, including border crossing infrastructure.

Christa Thomas – Christa Thomas is a lawyer as well as a freelance writer and photographer.

She was also the copy editor, and a writer and photographer for the San Carlos Times/ Tribune.

WELCOME / BIENNVENIDO

Carlos Durán, Playas de Rosarito – Born in Calexico. Carlos owned a Latino publication for the Long Beach/LA area for five years.

Today he is a dual citizen and enjoys traveling the peninsula as often as possible.

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 7

Welcome to Northwest Mexico

Northwest Mexico

Welcome to Northwest Mexico

Taken by Darcy Jensen at Bahia de Gonzaga south of San Felipe BC.

Live, Work and Play in Paradise.

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

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 01152-664-634-6330, -634-6918, -634-6574, or toll free from the U.S. (888) 775-2417 Ensenada Baja California, www. enjoyensenada.com , 011-52-646-1723022, 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) 011-52-686-5771104 Tecate Baja California, tecatemexico.com.mx 10 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Tijuana Baja California, seetijuana.com, 011-52-664-6840537, 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.

Welcome to Northwest Mexico

MEXICAN CUSTOMS & BORDER CROSSING

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.

• 2 (two) 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.

WELCOME / BIENNVENIDO

have a $150 exemption. You must have receipts and invoices to qualify for the exemption.

You no longer have to take the Mexicali detour, bcause the underpass is now OPEN at the Costco / Mega shopping center. It is now a straight shot to and from San Felipe to the border. The RED circle indicates the location. Looks great!

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 11

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.

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.

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.

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.

12 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Blues and Arts Fiesta

Blues & Arts Fiesta Photo by Denny Flannigan

Changing lives through music and art

by John Pack

a children’s home under construction to care for abused and abandoned children in San Felipe, is being funded by the support of the Lions Club.

This year the Blues & Arts Fiesta is teaming up with the San Felipe Children’s Foundation Charity Golf Classic for a weekend of Music, Art and Golf. Benefits from the Charity Golf Classic also go to benefit Sonshine Hacienda.

One of the Sponsors for the event is ScoreInternational and CEO Sal Fish will be Grand Marshall.

So, all you off-road racing fans will want to be there too.

Mark your calendars for March 28 and visit the little fishing village of San Felipe for the fundraising event of the season. Presented by the San Felipe BC Lions Club, www.sanfelipebclionsclub.com, and Mexico Living, www.mexicoliving.info. Tickets are only $20 for admission. Tickets and travel information are available at www.bluesandarts.com.

—— text .

BL UES & ARTS FI ESTA

On March 28th the Sea of Cortez will be a different shade of blue and lives will be changed.

San Felipe is a slow moving fishing village on the western apex of the sea, just 120 miles south of the U.S. border. But on this day, everything changes and you can feel the energy as it blows over the town on the daily winds.

Every person in town will be at the baseball field to enjoy great music and fine art while supporting the growing good this event makes possible each year. This year will feature some of the best “rockin’ blues” bands and as many as 60 of the finest artists from northwest Mexico and the southwest U.S. With each ticket sold, and each art display, the attendees and artists are changing lives. The 150 people working the event are all volunteers, even the bands are donating their music and amazing talents.

The Blues & Arts Fiesta has become the foundation fundraiser of the San Felipe Lions Club, which is dedicated to helping with the medical needs of the children and community of San Felipe. The “Sonshine Hacienda” project, www.sonshinehacienda.com,

———.

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 13

Blues & Arts Fiesta

Blues and Arts Fiesta

14 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

2009 Sponsors

2009 Sponsors

157 South Beach Lots Beautiful Mountain & Sea Views

011-52-1-686-221-4193 Toll Free: 1-800-291-8256 USA Office: (818) 956-6005 Local: 044-686-221-4193 www.layoyadelmar.info email: lajoyadelmar@yahoo.com Km 11 Carretera Puertecitos

BL UES & ARTS FI ESTA

Blues and Arts Fiesta

Blues & Arts Fiesta

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 15

Blues & Arts Fiesta

Blues & Arts 2009 Sponsors

Blues and Arts Fiesta

2009 Sponsors

Featured Artists: Andrena Joyce – Artist Artistic Jewelry by Lails Baja Chocolate Lovers Baja Nueva Casey Hamlin – Photography Digital Designs by Robin Huichol art of Shaman Jose Hernandez Sanchez Jack Zivic – Mixed Media Jim Mann – Watercolors Johanna Czoberek – Lemurian Wands Kathy Keane – Magic in Nature Photography Marianne Claggett Hatbands Mary Mobley – Clay Creations Daria Mariscal and Pai-Pai Potters Polos Fine Art Gallery – Polo Valencia Reuben Gomez – Artist Ruth Olivar Millan – Artist Sea of Cortez Salt Smoke Signals – Authentic Cuban Cigars Steven Sherrod – Artist The Peoples Gallery Valentina Ragsdale 16 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Photos by Denny Flannigan

Blues & Arts Fiesta

Michele Lundeen & Blues Streak

“The Queen of Steam” – roadhouse blues, classic R&B and funky soul.

A multiple San Diego Music Awards “Blues Blues” nominee.

Vatos Locos

2008 Mexico Living BEST OF Readers Poll winner.

Agave Blues

A mix of original and favorites, from San Felipe.

Johnny Mastro & Mama’s Boys

LA Music Awards “Best Blues Band” winner.

The Backwater Blues Band Shelle Blue

Upbeat and sultry rhythm and blues sounds.

Gino Matteo & The Family Funk

Gino was named “Best Blues Guitarist on the West Coast” at the 2006 “King of the Blues” Competition, and opened for B.B. King.

Mofo Party Band

Old-school Chicago Blues and West Coast Jump sound.

Chet and The Committee

Nominated “Best Blues Band” 2007 and 2008 by San Diego Music Awards Association.

BL UES & ARTS FI ESTA

High-energy blues. One of San Diego’s premiere blues bands.

Lisa Cee

Rockin’ blues with a funky edge.

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 17

Northwest Mexico Calendar & Events

St. Patrick’s Day Dinner At Club Deportivo, San Carlos San Carlos – Until I sat down to a traditional St. Patrick’s Day dinner at Club Deportivo in San Carlos, I had always thought St. Pat’s was just a day that you wore green or you were going to get pinched. My first St. Patrick’s Day dinner at Club Deportivo was an experience in itself. I have never eaten food that tasted so good! And, I have been to Ireland, where the food was very good, but not the same as this. Recently, I was visiting with Chef Nancy Leras and I asked her to jot down what she does to make this dinner so memorable. She is a busy lady and I was quite pleased when she wrote me a detailed letter explaining her process.

The following is a summary of what Chef Leras told me: The day after the Valentine’s Dinner, she starts the process of corning the beef briskets. To do it right without injecting the chemicals, it takes almost 30 days. They mix commercial chemicals (powders) with water and put the briskets into plastic garbage cans (used only for this process), as no metal must touch the liquid or the meat during the corning. The garbage cans go into refrigeration, where the meat stays, turning it about once each week. On March 15th, the meat is washed off and put into electric roasters filled with the solution that has been thinned with water, and brought to a boil, then turned down to 325 degrees for about four hours. She then allows the meat to cool. The meat is cut and stacked upright.

by Linda Shiflett

When stacked, some of the liquid is added; the meat is warmed and is ready to serve. Then the potatoes, carrots and cabbage are prepared for the meal.

The meal includes a salad bar, bread, macaroni, fruit, vegetables and a desert bar. On St. Patrick’s Day, Club Deportivo serves over 235 people.

This is a meal that some think about nearly a year in advance. The Club Deportivo ticket policy is that all tickets are sold at the Banamex Bank, San Carlos, Monday–Friday, 9:30 a.m. until noon, on a firstcome, first-served basis. The price of the dinner is not decided until the middle of February when the meat is purchased. The January dinner, which was half of a baked chicken, spaghetti with meat sauce, and a salad and dessert bar, was US$8 or 110 pesos.

Club Deportivo is a non-profit organization, staffed by volunteers. Volunteers do everything—teaching ceramics, exercise and dance classes; preparing monthly dinners; bartending; bridge; bingo; Performing Arts Council Concerts; scholarships; and so much more. They also help several other local organizations such as Rescate, Lions Club, SBPA (animal feeding, spay and neuter clinics), schools, and even help sponsor the Viva San Carlos website.

For more info call 227-0048.

So, as we are sitting there, enjoying this to-die-for meal, we are also helping our community. A delicious dinner and a good cause for all. Remember, tickets are limited and are usually gone in a few days!

NORTHWEST MEXICO CALENDAR OF EVENTS

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

Important Dates Mar. 8: Daylight Savings Time begins (U.S.) Mar. 10–24: Spring Break Mar. 16: Benito Juárez (MX national holiday)— Anniversary of the birth of Benito Juárez who served five terms as president of Mexico; resisting the French occupation, overthrowing the Empire, and restoring the Republic, as well as for his efforts to modernize the country.

Juárez is often regarded as Mexico’s greatest and most beloved leader.

Mar. 17: St. Patrick’s Day (U.S.) Mar. 17–23: Holy Week Mar. 18: Anniversary of the expropriation of the Mexican Oil Industry, 1938 (MX) Apr. 1: April Fools Day (U.S.) Apr. 5: Daylight Savings Time begins (MX) 18 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

LOCAL MONTHLY EVENTS Rosarito Beach Mar. 7: Spring Motocross Series Round 2 Mar. 15: Tom Gatch Monthly Fishing Tournament Mar. 28 and Apr. 25: 8 p.m. Poetry Readings At Chacha’s Café. Last Saturday of Every Month.

Contact Harold Lankisch at lankischharald@ yahoo.com or (661) 613-0448.

Ensenada Mar. 1–31: Gray Whale Watching, Feb. 1–Mar. 31 Mar. 23–25: Record Off Road Race El Alamo 200. Four turn circuit with 50-mile track with ATVs, motorcycles and four-wheel vehicles. www.recordoffroad.com.

Northwest Mexico Calendar & Events

New CD Release -

There‘s a buzz in the air about the highly-anticipated new CD by Denny Flannigan and the “Suns of the Beaches” featuring Arturo Esquivias Yee titled Don’t Need No Reason To Party! Scheduled for release in mid-March on a major record label, the CD represents the past three years of work by Flannigan and Esquivias to produce a compilation of music that reflects the essence and spirit of San Felipe and Baja Norte.

Lots of local talent participated in creating this high-energy and upbeat memento of the “San Felipe Sound.” As most of you remember, Denny’s band, “Suns of the Beaches,” was a primary driving force in the entertainment scene for several years along with Arturo’s band, Tres Generations. Tres Generations disbanded after 13 years and were honored at the 2008 2nd Annual Blues and Arts Fiesta for their musical contribution to the community.

From San Felipe Salsa to Denny’s “wild child piano style” on Bumble B. Boogie, this CD rocks! Sleepwalk, added by popular demand, is a powerful arrangement of the early classic Santo & Johnny Belly-Rubber. Flannigan and Esquivias have maintained the original romance and integrity of the song while updating the audio presence and quality with a new flair. If you are a fan of Arturo’s searing guitar, Gata Loca will give you an “Arturo fix” that will rock your socks off!

The previously released “DON’T NEED NO REASON TO PARTY” bumper sticker appears on over 3,000 cars, monster trucks, sandrails, refrigerators, bedposts and various places throughout the U.S. and Canada.

Look for Denny Flannigan’s Don’t Need No Reason To Party CD at the 3rd Annual Blues and Arts Fiesta on March 28 in San Felipe where Flannigan will again host this outrageous festival presented by the San Felipe Lions Club and Mexico Living.

C AL ENDAR & EVENTS

“Don’t Need No Reason To Party”

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 19

Northwest Mexico Calendar & Events

Walk With Me

Caminata Contra el Cancer Organization

by Jan Goode

San Felipe – Each year, millions of women look at their calendars and read these words, “Annual Check Up.” Though not our favorite way to spend time, we do it because we know that it may literally save our lives. The dreaded mammogram and the slightly uncomfortable PAP tests are two of the most important tests a woman should have done every year.

In San Felipe, hundreds of local women of all ages are just beginning to understand the importance of these examinations thanks to the efforts of Nurse Edith Fuentes Casillas of the Caminata Contra el Cancer Organization. In February 2008, the Caminata hired Edith, a full-time cancer care nurse who currently works out of an office provided by the San Felipe Centro de Salud. Her salary and necessary medical supplies are supported solely by contributions to the Caminata. A van provided by the Caminata has been a tremendous asset, allowing Edith to go into the local neighborhoods, perform these tests and hopefully lessen some of the “fear of the unknown.”

In this first year, she has seen over 300 women who probably would never have gone for either a Pap test or breast examination—this number continues to grow. Of 60 women who had breast examinations in November 2008, 10 percent had a lump in one breast. Edith has found several

20 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

cases of pre-cancerous lesions and cervical cancer within the 645 Pap tests she has done to date. She has referred over 100 patients for follow-up services, most of which required medical consultations, mammogram and ultrasound examinations. Many of these costs were absorbed by the Caminata.

Local OB/GYN, Dr. Annel Becerra Prado agrees that this project has made a significant impact in introducing the concept of preventative health care, particularly pre-cancer screening tests. “More importantly, it is helping to educate about women’s health issues like breast and cervical cancer.”

Edith cannot say enough about the importance of this project continuing, “there is a lot more to be

Northwest Mexico Calendar & Events

San Felipe

Mar. 7: Las Amigas Poker Run. $25 includes T-Shirt, 1 drink, lunch; Km 166. 8:30 a.m. Line Up; 12:30 p.m.Trophy Presentation. All proceeds go to the Las Amigas University students. www. clublasamigas.com.

Mar. 12: “Steak In The Park” Hosted by The Rotary Club, 2 p.m.

Mar. 13–16: Tecate Scores Baja 250 Mar. 14: ZAPP Spay & Neuter. The clinic starts at 9 a.m. at CONALEP School on Manzanillo. Spanish info (686) 178-1757; English (686) 577-2708.

Mar. 20–22: Hobie Cat Midwinter Regatta

done in providing medical care, but just as important, by educating. The Caminata is making it happen. I hope everyone will support this organization because there are so many more that need our help.”

So, walk with me and hundreds of supporters in the Annual Caminata Contra el Cancer, March 21, 2009. With the support and commitment of people who care, we can continue to grow and provide this much needed community service.

C AL ENDAR & EVENTS

Photos by Jan Goode

March 21: Folk Festival 6–9 p.m. at the Lighthouse.

A dozen Flagstaff and San Felipe local musicians will perform. Look for mini-concerts that week leading up at The Title Co Bookstore. Info: 520 -491-0125 tony@tonynorris.com Mar. 21: Cancer Walk. For info, contact Michele at (686) 216-3237. Caminata wristbands are on sale now at various locations in San Felipe.

Mar. 28: The 3rd International Blues & Arts Fiesta at the San Felipe Baseball Stadium. The Blues Concert and Art Fiesta is a fundraiser for the community of San Felipe, presented by the San Felipe Lions and Mexico Living Guide. Live Blues, beautiful art and sculptures: Amazing talent all encapsulated in cool sea breezes and majestic mountains. An outdoor concert and art event like no other. Held downtown San Felipe at the base of the mountains along the Sea of Cortez. For more info, visit www.bluesandarts.com.

Mar. 29: Celebrity Golf Tournament Apr. 4: Las Amigas Luau. Proceeds go to the University Students Scholarship Program, www. clublasamigas.com Apr. 11: “Poker Run” South Campos. Only $20 (entry into the race, T-shrit, and 3 drink tickets).

Check in 9–10 a.m.

Puerto Peñasco

Mar. 3: CEDO Natural History Talk, 2 p.m.

Mar. 6: Arizona Diamondbacks return to Hermosillo, Sonora, 1 p.m.

Mar. 7: Las Conchas Home Tour, 11 a.m.

Mar. 8–15: ASU Spring Break Mar. 16–20: U of A and NAU Spring Break Mar. 17: International Beer Fest At La Maria Mar. 23: CEDO World Meterological Day, Stargazing Night, 7:30–9 p.m. For info, call CEDO at (638) 382-0113.

San Carlos

Mar. 6: PAC Concert, 9:30 a.m.

Mar. 6: Arizona Diamondbacks return to Hermosillo, Sonora, 1 p.m.

Mar. 15–16: Cannibal Island at 7 p.m., San Carlos Plaza. Tickets $15.

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 21

Northwest Mexico Calendar & Events

Powerful and Joyful Flamenco Performance John Singer Sargent (1856–1925) in San Carlos Spanish Dancer 1880–1881

by Christa Thomas

www.artrenewal.org.

San Carlos – It was standing room only for Julia Chacon and Inspiración Flamenca’s performance at the San Carlos Plaza. And, at only US$10 a ticket, it was money well spent.

The energetic interaction of Julia’s dancing, the gut-wrenching singing of Meagan Chandler and the beautiful guitar playing of Joaquin Gallegos was infectious and soon had the audience shouting olé!

Julia dominated the stage with her rapid-fire staccato footwork and graceful and sensual movements. The performance was a passionate and fiery expression of life and love. With power and attitude surging from the souls of her feet and bursting over the audience, Julia allowed us to see, feel and share emotions ranging from pain and suffering to ecstasy and joy.

In February, the always entertaining Banda de Música del Gobierno del Estado de Sonora presented their big band sound, performing everything from the Star Wars theme, to symphonic works and folk music.

From November through March, the Performing Arts Council hosts monthly concerts in San Carlos.

Upcoming in March are Greek guitarists, the Sahnas

Brothers. For more information on the Performing Arts Council and to see the schedule, go to www. sancarlosconcerts.com.

San Carlos Entertainment Schedule SUNDAY

FRIDAY

Evie’s Breakfast Buffet: Omar Arriaga, 9 a.m.–Noon Froggy’s: Utopia, 7 a.m.–Noon La Palapa: Mark Mulligan, 1–4 p.m.

Bar Coral Fiesta Hotel: Gilberto & Luna, 8 p.m.

Evie’s Upstairs: Bobby & Leslie Sahlen, 7–10 p.m.

Froggy’s: Utopia, 9 p.m.–2 a.m.

La Palapa: Eric Holland, 5:30–8:30 p.m.

Tequila’s: Family Band, 9 p.m.–3 a.m.

TUESDAY Froggy’s: Eric Holland, 6–9 p.m.

SATURDAY WEDNESDAY La Palapa: Mark Mulligan, 5–8 p.m.

Ruby Wine Bar: Omar Arriaga, 6–9 p.m.

THURSDAY Bananas: Giacomon Twins, Open Mic, 7–10 p.m.

La Palapa: Danny Moreno, 5–9 p.m.

Bananas: Giacoman Twins, 8 p.m.

Bar Coral Fiesta Hotel: Gilberto & Luna, 8 p.m.

Evie’s Café Terrace: Omar Arriaga, 6–8 p.m.

Froggy’s: Utopia, 7 p.m.–Midnight La Palapa: Eric Holland, 5:30–8:30 p.m.

Tequilas: Family Band, 9 p.m.–3 a.m.

SPECIAL EVENTS Mark Mulligan at Hotel Hacienda in Kino Bay on Friday, March 13. For more info, visit Mark’s website: www.markmulligan.net Melodrama - Cannibal Isle on March 15 and 16 at the San Carlos Plaza Hotel at 7 p.m. Tickets are $15.

22 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Arts & Design of Mexico

Shaman Of Paquimé

knowledge of those conversing with him. You can talk with Adalberto for hours and the time disappears to give way to a space for the magic of his cultural verbal tours.

Explorer in his painting techniques, he maintains an interest for using organic materials, as they could have been used by our ancestors. Upon the amate canvas (paper made from the bark of a tree by this same name) he stamps his message of harmony and love through the symmetric and universal lines; such as agaves, lizards, turtles, snakes and other animals of northern Mexican fauna and flora that constitutes the pictorial universe of Adalberto.

You can find his studio within the prestigious Galería Pérez Meillón, also owned by him. It is there during the last 20 years that Adalberto has promoted his extraordinary works of art, as well as being an enthusiastic promoter of art in his unique gallery by presenting works from other regional and local artists; paintings, sculptures and quality folk art. It is highly noticeable, the respect and dignity with which he promotes the fine quality folk art of the different Baja California ethnic groups, such as the Cucapas, Cochimies, Pai-Pai, Kumiai and the high-quality ceramic works from the village of Mata Ortiz, Chihuahua.

Adalberto Pérez Meillón is without a doubt one of the art pillars of Baja California through his creative commitment, his liberty, generosity and particularly for his transcendent mission to be a transporter with his painter’s brush for the Paquimé culture forward through time.

Visit Adalberto’s website at www.pottery masters.com; contact him by phone at (646) 175-7848 or by email at adalbertopm@hotmail.com.

AR TS & DESI GN

Adalberto Pérez Meillón is the artist who, with his elegant and clean tracings, unfolds the vibrant history of the ancestral culture of the Anasazi—an indigenous community that once was settled in the enigmatic village of Paquimé. A culture which disappeared over 800 years ago and now their existence is only shown by archeological adobe ruins. Paquimé is located in Valle de Casas Grandes, Chihuahua, Mexico, 850 miles to the east of Ensenada, Baja California, and 75 miles from the United States border.

Through the authenticity of his work and by being a grand artist who interprets the graphic culture of the Anasazi, Adalberto is compared alongside the great ceramic artists of that same region, like Juan Quezada y Macario Ortiz. As proof, Adalbertos’ paintings are found in different latitudes of the world, forming part of important art collections.

Twenty years ago, as an elementary school teacher, in Mata Ortiz, Chihuahua, he was influenced by the indigenous artistic manifestations of the northern region of this state, particularly the culture of Valle de Casas Grandes, where Adalberto taught children for many years. He later decided to leave behind this profession to pursue his dream as an artistic creator. Today, apart from being a painter of the Native genre, he also maintains his vocation of teaching within his own way of expressing himself. His style is kind and generous, while his conversation is filled with vivid sharing. He is always interested in expanding the boundaries of cultural

Galleria Bellas Artes Hosts Show SAN CARLOS - Galleria Bellas Artes recently hosted a delightful cocktail party to introduce new art pieces along with a book signing where local resident Joe Noonkester’s fourth psychological thriller, Twisted Delusions, made its debut. Noonkester, a former police officer, writes his spellbinding mystery novels based on his years of experience in the North Hollywood, California, police precinct.

The gallery is known for its traditional, contemporary

by Alfonso Arámbula Robles

by Lynn Prince

paintings and sculptures. Two local residents, Michael Merrigan and Carol Pierce, were highlighted along with several of their art pieces. Both painters consider themselves realists and offered some lovely items.

Other stunning pieces of artwork were offered and a powerful oil painting entitled Ballarina by Becerra, a gifted artist from Puerto Vallarta, particularly caught my eye. Art gallery managers Rosie de Garcia and Silvia del Castillo were charming hosts as usual.

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 23

Northwest Mexico News Briefs

Calexico Border Update

by Bob Ham

In a meeting in Mexicali on January 19, SIDUE, the Baja state government agency that coordinates transportation development, revealed their plans for an expanded port of entry at the downtown Calexico port.

Last September the U.S. General Services Agency (GSA) made their plans known for the proposed upgrades to this port of entry.

The GSA plan for the U.S. side of the border will increase the current 10 lanes to 16 lanes. With the new design, each lane will allow for a new “double stacking� strategy that the Customs and Border Protection Service (CBP) is experimenting with at existing ports. Using this strategy, the new downtown Calexico port will be able to operate as many as 32 lanes during peak congestion times.

Current plans call for the GSA to begin construction of the redesigned port in 2010 and finish the first phase by 2011. The second phase of construction will be concluded in 2014. CBP will have the ability to expand the number of SENTRI lanes to whatever level is necessary to maintain the minimal wait times for participants in this program.

The new plans that were revealed by the Baja state government call for an extensive complex of new roads and bridges to access the downtown port. A new four-lane access road along the border fence coming from the west will be constructed. This road (Cristobal Colon) will essentially be an extension of the existing road from the east that we have used for years to access the port. The new plans call for new bridges and underpasses at the border approaches that will remind a traveler of the crossing between San Ysidro and Tijuana.

Access to the new road from the west will be via a new expressway that will begin near the Costco store at the beginning of the San Felipe Highway. This road (Perifico Gomez Morin) will be an expressway that heads west and then turns north to connect to the new Cristobal Colon access along the western border fence. Construction for all of the new access roads and the reconfigured Mexican customs and immigration facilities will be complete in 2014.

Officials in Calexico and Imperial County made countless trips to Washington, D.C., to lobby for more infrastructure to speed up the process of crossing into the United States ever since the extra security measures started being implemented after 9-11. These efforts are now paying off, and the expectation is that when complete, the border wait times should decrease by about two thirds.

24 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

Baja California & Sonora

Below is a diagram of the proposed improvements.

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 25

Northwest Mexico News Briefs

San Felipe News Briefs

by Carlos and Julia Bono

In local news, new signs were posted on the beach in Spanish regarding things that are not permitted on the beaches in San Felipe. These include: driving vehicles (unless for fishing), glass bottles, leaving trash, making campfires and animals that dirty the beach. The animal rule refers to horses, since dogs are allowed without a leash, unless they are dangerous. However, picking up after your dog is recommended. The penalties for breaking the laws are significant—ranging from about $40 to $2,100. Drinking alcohol on the beach and malecon is tolerated in San Felipe within the tourist zone between Club de Pesca and Kiki’s resorts, unless someone causes a problem.

San Felipe was busy preparing for the town’s big Carnaval celebrations held on February 19–24, and the event now has a new chief coordinator. Marcos Gonzalo Negrete has been replaced by Jose Maria Cuevas who is the new head of the Chamber of Commerce. The first round in the selection for Carnaval Queen was held at Bandidos Nightclub on January 17. Earlier in the month, on January 6, Sunshine Rodriguez, the owner of Bandidos, hosted a party for over 200 children with raffles and refreshments along with DIF, the Desarrollo Integral Familiar, which provides family services such as adoption, child protection and family development.

On January 7, the grand opening of the Instituto San Felipe de Jesus Catholic school was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by Bishop Jose

26 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

Photos by Carlos and Julia Bono

Isidro Guerrero Macias who also gave the opening sermon for the school. Pat and Doreen Butler, of El Dorado Ranch cut the ribbon for the new school.

San Felipe celebrated its 84th birthday on February 5 with an impressive ceremony featuring regional Mexican folk dances performed by local school children, the high school military marching band and a female flag squadron. The event took place at the “Graveyard of the Pioneers” on Chetumal, and was presided over by a panel of local dignitaries including Delegado Hazael Sierra Castillo, Vice Admiral Juan Ramon Alcala, Ruben De La Peña from COTUCO, Domingo Benitez Rodriguez (a Regent from Mexicali) and others.

Finally, at the Corona Salon on February 5, Delegado (Mayor) Hazael Sierra Castillo gave an impressive report on accomplishments he has overseen in San Felipe over this past year. These included improvements in the city infrastructure (such as landscaping the median strip on Chetumal and new road paving), cleaning up the beach, improving the malcon bathrooms and painting over graffiti with the help of many local volunteers, and upgrading the police and fire departments’ vehicles. He also mentioned local improvements such as the ongoing construction of a 1.9 million peso new municipal park and sports facility near the Portobello development in downtown San Felipe, and the return of the SCORE Baja 250 off-road race to San Felipe which will be held here from March 13– 15. Hazael was followed by Domingo Benitez Rodriguez who spoke about the government’s new plan to teach English in elementary schools.

Baja California & Sonora

Mexican Billionaire Bails Out New York Times

by Christa Thomas

In an attempt to bolster the flailing company’s finances, Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim has agreed to invest $250 million USD in the New York Times Company.

With a circulation of around a million, the New York Times is the third biggest selling newspaper in the United States. However, Times Co’s stock has recently fallen nearly 50 percent and its debt is rated as “junk” by Standard & Poor’s.

Mr. Slim, one of the world’s richest men, is the owner of Telmex, Mexico’s major telephone provider, and America Movil, Latin America’s leading mobile phone operator. He already owns a 6.9 percent stake in Times Co. Under the recent agreement, financial institutions controlled by Mr. Slim will loan Times Co the money in return for senior unsecured notes with detachable warrants convertible into common stock. The warrants can be converted into 15.9 million common shares, or approximately 11 percent of Times Co’s common equity, which would make him the second largest shareholder.

The transaction with Mr. Slim follows several months of Times Co selling and merging assets in an attempt to

solve the company’s liquidity problems. Times Co is facing a liquidity problem due to substantial debts coming due in the midst of the international economic crisis. The fact that the company is offering Mr. Slim such generous terms highlights Mexican billionaire both the extent of its crisis as Carlos Slim well its dwindling options.

The influx of capital may not give Times Co enough breathing space given the current economic climate, a steep decline in newspaper advertising, and a reduction in revenues as readers switch from print publications to the web. Within the last month, both Tribune Company, which owns the Chicago Tribune and Los Angeles Times, and the Minneapolis Star Tribune Company filed for bankruptcy protection. It remains to be seen whether the loan from Mr. Slim will allow the New York Times to survive as an independent company.

Sources: Associated Press, Reuters, Forbes

First Meeting Between Calderón and Obama

by Christa Thomas

On Monday, January 12, 2009, Mexican President Felipe Calderón met with then U.S. President-elect Barack Obama and then with leaders of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives to discuss topics of interest to both countries. The parties discussed such crucial issues as the North American Free Trade Agreement between Canada, Mexico and the United States, border security, immigration and economic development.

In Obama’s first meeting with a foreign leader since his election, he praised President Calderón’s leadership and stewardship of Mexico’s economy. He stated that he considers Mexico a major ally of the United States.

The two leaders proposed organizing a strategic alliance to deal with common problems such as

security. Obama also pledged to heighten efforts to stem the southbound flow of weapons and cash to drug traffickers.

“We have such an extraordinary relationship between our two countries, one that my intention is to make stronger,” Obama declared. He said that his goal is to build on the commercial, security and cultural ties between the countries.

Obama said the message that he brought to President Calderón is that his administration will begin work immediately to strengthen the U.S.–Mexico relationship.

He believes the existing association between the two border nations is strong, but said that he thinks that it can be made stronger. And, he promised to try to make it so.

Source: www.presidencia.gob.mx

Historic Investment of $115.3 Million in Tourism During 2009

by Christa Thomas

As part of the plan to develop tourism, Mexico’s Secretary of Tourism, Rodolfo Elizondo, announced historical investments of $115.3 million to improve and promote projects in various states and destinations throughout the country.

During his address, Elizondo informed the Secretaries of Tourism of the various states that not only will the restoration projects in the tourist destinations be of vital

importance, but also the renewal, modernization and creation of tourist products of high impact, to produce employments in the states.

The federal secretary added that, following the instructions of President Felipe Calderón, these investments must be used in the first six months of 2009.

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 ICON Descriptions

#

- Pool/Spa

- Accept Credit Cards

- Pet Friendly

- Wi-Fi / Internet

- Serves Breakfast

- Kitchen/Restaurant

- Beer/Spirits

- Map Number

- Reader Poll Winner

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 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.

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

WHERE TO EAT American Food La Bamba .............................................661-100-2560 Coffee & Breakfast Las Brisas Coffee.........................................661-612-2546 Chinese Dragon Del Mar............................................661-612-0604 Costa Azul...................................................661-612-1189 Palacio Royal...............................................661-612-1412 French Chabert’s.....................................................661-612-1111 Le Cousteau.................................................661-612-2655 Italian Portofino......................................................661-612-2950

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 29

Rosarito Beach, Baja California

Your Favorite Neighborhood Bar & Grill in Baja Applebee’s opens a new location in Rosarito Beach

by Carlos Durán

Rosarito Applebee’s Photo by Carlos Duran

This “Combina Bee’s” lunch special rivals Applebee’s breakfast, a special that offers two breakfasts for the price of one. My sister and I thought such a deal couldn’t be beat a couple of weeks ago when we visited the Pabellón shopping center in Rosarito. Another visit to the restaurant, we both tried the tender beef fajitas served over a bed of delicious rice. We both enjoyed the cold mugs of beer that kept the grilled jalapeños from overpowering our palate.

You can enjoy the above specials at the Tijuana, Rosarito and Ensenada Applebee’s Restaurants that are located in the shopping centers that feature Walmart and Home Depot stores. The grill and bars are a welcome addition for taking a break from

30 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

shopping as well as casual lunches with business colleagues or visitors. They offer a variety of dishes to suit any and all tastes, in addition to the availability of beer and other spirits to soften the mood of an otherwise hectic schedule.

The “Combina Bee’s” lunch special has what they call “Sandwichopa” from which you can choose 64 different combinations of your favorite items. Put together your own dish among the many choices of soups, salads, pasta and sandwiches. Or you may choose combinations that they have already prepared for you.

There is only one limitation on the lunch specials, you need to visit the nearest Applebee’s between noon and 5 p.m., that’s it! The restaurants offer great service as they are well staffed and provide plenty of supervised parking for your friends and business associates to enjoy a nutritious and relaxed lunch. If you get there before noon, don’t forget about the twofor-one breakfast specials. ¡Buen Provecho!

Rosarito Beach, Baja California Grand Baja Resort (Puerto Nuevo) ..............................................877-315-1002

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

CHURCH Rosarito Beach Christian Church .................661-613-1985

Pizza Virgilio’s Pizza..............................................661-612-1210

DOG GROOMERS D’ Groomer Dog Grooming ....................661-100-6218

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

Elevators/Elevadores To The Top Elevators....................................661-614-1434

BUSINESS DIRECTORY A-Z

FINANCING/FINANCIAMIENTO Baja Lending Company................................686-576-0653

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

R OSAR I TO BEA C H

FISH/PESCADERÍA Vince's Old Peir ...........................................661-612-1253

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

WHERE TO STAY

Click On

INTERNET ................................................661-614-0513

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

Click On

MAILING SERVICES ................................................661-614-0513

Motel Camino Inn..................................................661-612.2803

RENTALS/RENTAS See WHERE TO STAY section REAL ESTATE AGENTS/AGENTES DE BIENES RAÍCES Nicolas Santos (Rosarito).............................619-917-5695 Laura Miller . .........................................619-888-6171 REAL ESTATE/BIENES RAÍCES 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

Hotel / Condo Baja Rentals.................................... www.BajaCatalina.com Bobby’s Baja by the Sea ...................661-614-1135 ...........................................800-800-9632 Costa Azul

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’s “Get Up and Go!” Positive Outlook Reminiscent of High School Musical

Hotel Association and AMPI to work toward improving tourism trend When the going gets tough, it is said, the tough get going. That was the case during my high school years when we produced the high school musical Get Up and Go! The usual best performers in the classroom and the students that were involved in several activities were also the stars of the show.

Another similarity to Rosarito is that the musical was about picking yourself up during hard times, as is the case today in Baja California.

As a Citizen Safety Committee member, I was invited by our chair Lic. Ricardo Moreno to attend the swearing in of officers for the Rosarito chapter of the Mexican Association of Hotels and Motels that took place at the Festival Plaza Hotel. The baton was passed from Laura Torres to IT César Rivera of Hotel Las Rocas. Ms. Torres outlined her tenure of achievements before leaving her post.

First she explained that the association does not receive funding as do COTUCO and CANIRAC chambers, and that all fundraising is achieved by the membership. She then outlined some gains to improve their services, such as security courses and customer service classes coordinated through the SECTURE and CANIRAC agencies. Events such as the International Surf Contest, Basketball Tournament and Press Convention for Tourism Journalists were on the list of promotions sponsored by the association.

An important step was to make the State authorities aware of their efforts. That effort resulted in the attendance of Lic. Raúl Aragón, the Baja California Delegate for Rosarito as well as his congratulatory remarks that evening.

The incoming President IT César Rivera of Las Rocas Hotel began his two-year tenure by announcing three important goals. To begin, increase membership numbers and participation in the association. Then, to prepare a comprehensive marketing plan for the association, as well as to outline a plan for times of crisis, both economic and safety. And most important, to launch a public relations campaign to benefit the tourism industry in general.

32 - Guide to Resort Living in Northwest Mexico

by Carlos Durán

Before Mayor Hugo Torres performed the swearing in, he indicated his day began with an AMPI realtors association meeting in which the group was sitting on nearly $200 million in Incoming President of AMHM investments in condos IT. César Rivera, Lic. Laura and developments. The Wong, President COTUCO AMPI realtors are eager to and Lic. Ricardo Moreno, join forces with the hotel President Rosarito Citizen’s Committee for Public Safety. association to promote the region as they realize Photos by Carlos Durán we need visitors first, to then schmooze them into becoming buyers. He also mentioned Rosarito’s effort to offer foreigners the opportunity to mail their traffic citations by mail. That idea has not taken root in Tijuana and Ensenada and he urged the authorities to recognize this important public relations tool. Mayor Torres also expressed the need for additional funding by the State and Federal authorities to reinvigorate tourism in the region.

My good friend Laura Miller (voted Best Realtor 2008 by Mexico Living readers) is a board member in AMPI and is charged with the task of new membership.

So if you’re interested in participating, please give her a call, her number is in the business listings.

Thanks to Javier López of La Paloma Condos for his guidance and information regarding members and their affiliations. Also in attendance and seated at the head table were Oc. Rosa María Plasencia and Lic. Laura Wong of COTUCO. The ceremonies were followed by a toast and finger food for those in attendance.

So just as in high school musicals, the football star, prom queen and scholarship club’s leaders are again the one’s leading the charge for a positive future for Rosarito. As the lyrics in our own musical went, “You gotta bend your knees, get down and pull up your socks!” I’ll sing it to you (upon request, of course), if we meet.

Sitting: Councilwoman Oc. Rosa María Plasencia, Councilwoman and President of Tourism Commission; Lic. Laura Wong, President of Rosarito COTUCO; Rosarito Mayor CP Hugo Torres Chabert; Lic. Laura Torres, outgoing President of AMHM. Standing: Lic. Raúl Serafín Aragón, State Tourism Delegate for Rosarito, Lic. Manuel Padrés Veria, General Manager of Hotel Festival Plaza, IT César Rivera, General Manager of Las Rocas Hotel and incoming President of AMHM; Violeta Ayala, Administrative Assistant to Lic. Laura Torres.

Rosarito Beach, Baja California

Local Surgeon Saves My Life in Rosarito Team of doctors organized by Primo Tapia MD Camacho

by Carlos Durán

was my first point of contact. When he saw the Final procedure of stitch removal

by Dr. Chavez and Nurse Reyna. gravity of the situation, Photo by Irma, CMP he followed me home to leave my car and personally drove me to the hospital while he spent the entire trip on the phone coordinating the rest of the team. Within two hours and after the anesthesiologist had my lower body “out,” they went to work as I lay awake listening to them and the ranchera music playing in the background. They gave me periodic reports of their work and maintained a positive attitude throughout, which gave me hope and piece of mind during surgery.

After eleven days in the family atmosphere of Santa Lucia Hospital, I walked out as I thanked God for another lease on life. I also appreciate the work of Dr. Chavez, who is inaugurating his own new hospital in Rosarito; and, of course, Dr. Camacho, who will be collaborating with Centro Médico Paraiso on many new ventures, such as aesthetic surgery at that same facility. Cost you ask? A similar procedure would have cost me (and my family and friends) over $60,000 in the U.S., but was under $10,000 locally, and I’m as good as new. ¡Gracias a Dios!

R OSAR I TO BEA C H

I am alive by the grace of God and a well-coordinated effort by Dr. Camacho and gastroenterology surgeon Dr. Chavez soon after a lower abdomen pain showed up in an X-ray as a ruptured appendix. Within two hours they contacted an anesthesiologist and nurses in a Rosarito hospital to open my abdomen to retire the culprit and rid my digestive cavity of infectious material already infecting my intestines. This took place in late November and my very first solid meal of soup stock, fruit juice and gelatin took place on Thanksgiving Day. Definitely the most thankful day of my life, and I was also blessed to have as visitors my brother and sister with their families, as well as my sister-in-law.

Recovery would normally have been four or five days but hypertension and blood sugar levels slowed the recovery process to eleven days. Needless to say, I am glad to report there was even mention of a recovery process. Post-op has also been slow, but again, I am soon due to have the last two stitches taken out from under my belly button tomorrow and should be able to start riding my bicycle again soon.

Since I live near Puerto Nuevo, my local doctor Juan Camacho (office next to Chinese Restaurant in Primo Tapia)

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 33

Ensenada, Baja California

34 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

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

Ensenada, Baja California

Ensenada, Baja California

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

Dining & Lodging Guide

Sano’s Steak House

by Steve Dryden

Whenever friends, guests or clients offer to take me to dinner, I always suggest Sano’s at Km. 108.5 on the toll road or Carretera Cuota Tijuana – Ensenada.

Forget McDonald’s, this is on their tab! Thus, being the California native and longtime Baja California aficionado that I am, hospitality, service, ambiance and quality food is a must. And, because I’m a local wine grower, winemaker and wine writer, I’m always stunned by Sano’s most “impressive” wine list featuring Mexico’s best wines. Juan Hussong Ortel was known as “Sano” and he was a perfectionist when it came to “old school” Baja California hospitality, service and gourmet cuisine. That tradition is still the foremost concern at this popular destination, and Sano’s is one of the best venues in Baja California Norte. Fortunately, they’re open daily from noon until 11 p.m.

If you’re looking to impress one of your wine lovers, special lover, or connoisseur, call in advance (646) 174-4061 and reserve a table next to their wine cellar that is located in a romantic private setting. My favorite waiters, Carlos or Hugo, are familiar with the “enormous” wine list and can suggest that perfect pairing with your dinner. I tend to break the “wine rules” and America’s Patriot Act by pairing Roganto’s Tramonte with Sano’s stunning Blue Cheese Tower and then complementing that “culinary wonder” with a remarkable 14 ounce, aged Black Angus Rib Eye Steak (marbling cut) with baked potato, and served with fresh seasonal vegetables. Although, sometimes

I will request the Tempranillo from Vinisterra to “marry” with that Rib Eye Steak feast!

Seafood lovers can’t miss with their Swordfish Steak in a white wine sauce with capers, seasonal vegetables and rice. Or the amazing Duetto del Mar Linguini, fresh shrimp and Garra de Leon scallops, cooked in tomato sauce and basil. When I’m in the mood for a light meal, I’ll often pair the Blue Cheese Tower (a romaine lettuce tower topped with fresh blue cheese) with the Aquachile Scallops with yellow peppers, capers, lemon, olive oil and onions, along with a glass of regional Sauvignon Blanc. Another healthy entree is the Chicken in Prune sauce, served with mashed potatoes and rice. If you love lamb, don’t miss the Rack of Lamb in port wine and prune sauce served with mashed potatoes and fresh seasonal vegetables. Or explore their Lamb Shank with Capellini Pomodoro. Prime Rib is served in half or full portions on Fridays, Saturday and Sundays only. Meals range in price from US$5 to US$36 and many excellent Mexican wines are available by the glass or the bottle.

You’ll love the romantic ambiance, professional service, hospitality, gourmet cuisine and premium local wines featured daily at Sano’s. Look for the restaurant with a split rail fence,on the right—just one mile before you reach the harbor of Ensenada, as you drive from Rosarito Beach on the scenic Highway One.

ICON Descriptions

#

ENSENADA

Voted #1 Steakhouse in Baja in 2006

- Pool/Spa

PLACES TO EAT Coffee & Breakfast La Casa Antigua ......................................646-175-7320

- Accept Credit Cards

- Pet Friendly

- Wi-Fi / Internet

- Serves Breakfast

- Kitchen/Restaurant

- Beer/Spirits

- Map Number

- Reader Poll Winner

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

Chinese Bamboo Garden

. .....................................646-178-2516

Italian Gondolieri Ristorante Italiano...........................646-174-0976

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 - 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

Viña de Liceaga

by Steve Dryden

Touring the premier wine country of Baja California Norte in Valle de Guadalupe can be very rewarding during the late winter and spring seasons. Life is somewhat relaxed during this brief period giving inquiring guests an opportunity to mingle with winemakers and knowledgeable winery staff. The crowds have thinned and you’ll often have the whole wine country to yourselves, especially during midweek. And, if you want to spend a few nights, room rates are reduced at this time for Hotel Plaza Fatima, Hacienda Guadalupe and at the famous Rancho Malagon B&B. As you enter the wine country from Ensenada be aware that highway construction into the valley on Highway 3 is somewhat challenging, so be cautious, and don’t drive at night. The first village in the wine country is San Antonio de las Minas which is about seven miles from the Pacific Ocean and scenic Highway One. About one mile beyond the village, as you travel towards Tecate, you’ll see a large white building on the right at km 93.5, this is Viña de Liceaga. This newly completed complex offers amazing wines, great hospitality and is staffed with knowledgeable employees. The tasting room is open daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. with tasting fees ranging from $3 to $10 per person. For $10 you get a wine glass, samples of one white wine, four red wines, and one taste of their Grappa; $3 gets you one taste of white wine and one red wine. Large tour groups of more than ten people need to make advance reservations with Marisa at (646) 155-3281.

This winery is famous for their Merlot, but Viña de Liceaga continues to make a good Chenin Blanc from grapes grown in Valle de San Vicente. Their 2007 Chenin Blanc is aged in stainless steel tanks which allows for a refreshing and light white wine with hints of pineapple, green apple, honey and peach. Their 2007 Vinto Tinto is a palate pleasing blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, both varietals are grown in Valle de Guadalupe. This user-friendly table wine was released in mid-July 2008 after aging for nine months in American oak barrels. Vino Tinto is a smooth red blend, medium bodied and easy to drink.

Liceaga’s 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon is a mellow red blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Syrah—most delightful and smooth. The grapes are from Guadalupe Valley and are aged for two years in new American oak barrels. Aromas of tobacco,

Ensenada, Baja California violets, vanilla and coffee with flavors of black fruit, and bell pepper. Smooth, elegant and complex with 13.5% alcohol. Their 2005 Gran Reserva Merlot is an elegant blend of grapes grown in San Antonio de las Minas with 95% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc.

Aged in new French oak barrels and with 13.5% alcohol this wine makes for a smooth, fruit forward, rich, complex and palate pleasing Merlot. Their newest 2006 Gran Reserva Merlot was released in November 2008, with a slightly different blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, no Cabernet Franc added. My favorite wine for 2009 is their new 2006 L—Selection #1, which is the Eduardo Liceaga Campos memorial wine. This remarkable wine is a superb blend of 80% Syrah and 20% Merlot, aged for 20 months in new American oak—a connoisseurs delight!

For those who missed their morning cup of coffee, you can still “wake up” with their potent distilled Grappa, called Aqua de Vid. Viña de Liceaga. But, don’t try driving, dancing or walking after a sip or two! Grappa is a distilled spirit without color made from black grape pomage, fermented, gently pressed from several wine varieties, and aged for three years in new American oak. Their Grappa creates a powerful clear beverage that will awaken even the most laid-back individuals.

You’ll love the new facility, the friendly staff and their delightful wines. This summer, they plan to add a new picnic area with a large fountain, tables and various food vendors to provide lucky guests with a fun-filled day in Baja California’s beautiful wine country. The best times to visit are October through June, but if you don’t mind crowds and summer heat, you won’t want to miss their Fiesta de la Vendimia event held in August.

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 39

Ensenada, Baja California

Mexican Amigos Cantina...............................................619-917-5696 Casa Mar Restaurant Bar.................................646-174-0417 www.restaurantcasamar.com Brisa del Mar . ..................................646-108-4702 Broncos Steakhouse .........................646-176-4900 Costa Azul . ......................................646-154-2540 Hussong’s Cantina ............................646-178-3210 Magana’s........................................................646-155-0586 Haliotis ............................................646-176-3720 Steak & Seafood El Rey Sol.......................................................646-178-1601 Las Cazuelas . ...................................646-176-1044 La Finca de Ensenada ...............................646-172-5833 La Embotelladora Vieja .....................646-174-0807 La Mansion de Ensenada . ................646-178-3271 La Vendimia ......................................638-174-0969 PLACES TO STAY RV Park/Parque de RV Mona Lisa RV Park..........................................646-177-5100 Popotla R.V. Park.............................................661-612-1501 Motels/Moteles America Motel ..........................................646-176-1333 Rudis Motel . ...........................................646-176-3245 Ensenada Inn..................................................646-176-1361 Hotel El Joker..................................................646-177-5151 Posada Don Fernando.....................................646-177-0127 Azteca Inn.......................................................646-177-4015

40 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

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

Ensenada, Baja California 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

Professional Services PSN Mexico Professional Services..................646-178-8280 Legal/Immigration Assist FM3/FM2/FMT Import documentation www.psnmexico.com

BUSINESS DIRECTORY A-Z

POLICE/POLICÍA Policia Ministerial............................................646-176-3636 Policia Federal Caminos................................. 646-683-8040 Policia Federal Preventiva ...............................646-176-2579 Prefectura Naval........................................... 469-0376/2948

Aeropuerto/Airport Aeropuerto ....................................................646-273-1984

public transportation/el transporte público Terminal de Buses...........................................646-224-1041

Art Gallery Garery Art & Stuff...........................................646-175-8859

RENTALS/RENTAS See Rosarito/Ensenada Lodging Guide section

ARTIST Alfonso Arambulua..........................................646-149-3866

REAL ESTATE AGENTS/AGENTES DE BIENES RAÍCES Nicolas Santos (Rosarito)................................619-917-5695

Rentals Baja Rentals.......................................www.BajaCatalina.com

RESTAURANTS/RESTAURANTES See WHERE TO EAT section RV PARKS See PLACES TO STAY section REAL ESTATE SERVICES Baja Closing & Escrow Services......................760-494-7053

Vinos Fuentes Winery

ENSENADA

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

DEVELOPMENT MANAGEMENT/MANEJO DE FRACCIONAMIENTOS Baja Mar Country Club ..........................1-800-434-2252 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

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

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San Felipe, Baja California

Manzanillo

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The San Felipe Arches

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

Photo by Ron Saunders

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 more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 43

San Felipe, Baja California

Dining & Lodging Guide

Baja Mar Restaurant

SAN FELIPE DIRECTORY ICON Descriptions

by Lisa Shannon

There is nothing quite like a beautiful view sitting on a patio at Baja Mar, enjoying the sound of the serf and a wonderful meal. These were the best cheese enchiladas ever experienced in San Felipe by our party, as well as Chili Relleños fit for a Mexican president.

Octavio Ascolani, his wife, Elena, and sons, Octavio Jr. and Luis, have operated the restaurant for many years.

They serve some of the best of San Felipe’s fish and shrimp entrees as well as good ol’ landlubber steaks.

Baja Mar is home to the Original San Felipe Fish Tacos and the Extreme Festine Party Shrimp. They are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner for your dining pleasure and the view from the patio is amazing, to say the least. The waiters are all English-speaking and a delight to have around. Bartender Daniel makes a great cocktail, by the way, so be sure to imbibe, if you so desire. Happy hour is 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. every day.

Cheese Enchiladas – $68, Chili Relleños – $79, San Felipe Fish Tacos – $60, Shrimp – $70.

#

- Pool/Spa

- Accept Credit Cards

- Pet Friendly

- Wi-Fi / Internet

- Serves Breakfast

- Kitchen/Restaurant

- Beer/Spirits

- Map Number

- Reader Poll Winner

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 PLACES TO EAT American .................................. 686-577-2585 Los Arcos ........................................... 686-577-2465 Baja Java ......................... 686-577-3144 Beach Bar & Grill Blowin’ Smoke BBQ .......................................... 686-576-0710 Breakfast The Bistro “Java Jitters”

.............. 686-114-7735

Burgers Baja Burger........................................................ 686-577-2465 Chilis & Burgers................................................. 686-577-6196 Mexican ................ 686-577-3144 The Beach Bar and Grill El Club............................................................... 686-577-1175 .................... 686-200-4083 La Palapa Bar & Grill Mi Casa es Tu Casa............................................ 686-577-1495 . ............................. 686-576-0648 Rancho Alegre

44 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

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

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

Los Arcos

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

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

SAN FEL I PE

Steak & Seafood ........................ 686-577-1580 Al’s Backstreet Cantina Green House...................................................... 686-181-6358 ....................................................... 686-577-1028 El Nido ................... 686-577-2540 Lighthouse Restaurant

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

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

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 45

Cover Feature

Tecate SCORE San Felipe 250

By Bob Hamm

The 2009 edition of the Tecate SCORE San Felipe 250 will happen over the weekend of March 13 through 15. The race is perhaps the largest single tourism event in San Felipe. Not only are the hotels, campgrounds and restaurants operating at full capacity during the race weekend, but many racers and race team supporters spend time here during the weeks preceding this event. According to the SCORE rules, teams are permitted to begin “prerunning” the race course on Saturday, February 28. Many of the teams will go out and traverse the course several times prior to the actual race on March 14. By prerunning the course, racers gain important knowledge of obstacles and potential danger points, which they make note of for use when running at speed during the actual race. Places where a competitor may pass safely are noted as are access points for race support vehicles to safely access the course in the event a racer breaks down.

The good news for the tourism providers in town is that when these prerunners and support teams are not out doing reconnaissance in the desert, they are filling up hotel rooms and patronizing our city’s restaurants, bars and stores. Two years ago when a misunderstanding between local community interests and the promoters of the race caused the event to move to Ensenada just days before the scheduled start of the race, the effect to the local economy was devastating. Since that time, San Felipe community leaders, business and government officials are working closely with SCORE to ensure that issues are identified and dealt with long before they could escalate into a repeat of that disaster.

In fact, this year, two short weeks after the race is over and the racers leave town, the next big tourism event will take place. That event is the 3rd Annual San Felipe Blues and Arts Festival, and this year the Grand Marshall for the festival is none other than SCORE International President Sal Fish. Truly the relationship between the entire community of San Felipe and SCORE has improved to the extent where this gentleman has been selected to preside over San Felipe’s newest and fastest growing annual event.

Because of the difficult economy in the U.S. and Mexico this year, SCORE has made a few changes that will make it easier on race team budgets this year. One change which may impact business in San Felipe a little bit is the race course itself. For 2009, SCORE has announced that they will be running the race on the exact same course as they used in 2008. This means that prerunning notes that were made for last year’s course will still be valid for 2009, thereby making it possible for a team to spend less time prerunning and still be able to be competitive. While this may cut some prerunning costs, it is likely that most teams will still be in town during the weeks leading up to the race, but perhaps for a shorter time.

46 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Cover Feature For those who want to experience the excitement of race week, the schedule is as follows: Friday, March 13, registration for racers and team members takes place at Bandidos Bar on Mar de Cortez from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Programs will be available and autograph seekers might just be able to score a souvenir from their favorite racer. (All times are San Felipe time, which is Pacific Standard Time that week and NOT Pacific Daylight as it will be in the U.S.)

Saturday is race day with the motorcycles and ATVs starting single file in 30 second increments from the start/finish line at the Malecon. Three hours after the last ATV leaves the start/finish line, the four-wheeled vehicles take off using the same 30 second format. The first to leave the line are the popular Trophy Trucks followed by the unlimited Class 1 dunebuggies, and then the rest of the classes in order until the final Class 11 (stock Volkswagen bug) leaves the line.

The race course is 232 miles and the first trophy trucks will cover that distance and finish during daylight around 4 p.m. All vehicles have 10 hours to finish the course, so depending on the number of starters, the last official finishers will still be out on the course until almost midnight.

C OVER STORY

Also on Friday is the Contingency Row and Technical Inspection from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. This starts in front of the Bandidos Bar, and includes all of the Malecon. Every race vehicle is driven or pushed through the long parade route that makes up Contingency Row where tire companies; radio providers; suspension and transmission merchants; as well as dozens of T-shirt and apparel marketers all display their wares for racers and the public. This a true carnival atmosphere as school kids are asking every racer for “steekers� and serious race fans are examining and taking pictures of the latest advances in frame or suspension design.

On raceday, the most accessible spots along the course near town are almost wall to wall with spectators by the time the first trophy trucks race by. Many spectators will stake out spots within the first few miles of the race and then return later in the afternoon to watch the racers along the final 10-mile stretch as the fastest vehicles approach the start line. All in all, it is an exciting event for participants and spectators alike. One final word of caution though: If you go out on the course to watch the race, use some thought when staking out your spot along the route. Avoid areas on the outside of turns or other areas where it is apparent that some of the prerunners may have been using when planning their race strategy. Remember to give these racers plenty of room because they are traveling at very high speeds on uneven terrain, which can be very dangerous for spectators who do not use a little common sense when staking out their race watching venue.

Photos by Francisco Rom

o Victorio

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 47

Cover Feature

48 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

C OVER STORY

Cover Feature

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 49

San Felipe, Baja California

San Felipe Scene Lions Club Anniversary Photos by Lisa Shannon

Steven Forman of ZAPP has informed us that they completed over 60 spay/neuters at the clinics in January. With this organization’s continued help, we will be able to reduce the animal population in San Felipe and prevent wild dogs from taking over. San Felipe Lions Club celebrated a two year anniversary, attended by the Mexicali-Palaco charter and numerous members from Baja. The San Felipe Lions Mascot made his premier appearance at the party, held at the Lighthouse Restaurant. Baja Jimmy’s, aka Jimmy Smith, has moved the restaurant from Bar Miramar to the ejido north of San Felipe. His delights can be found across the highway from Campo Ocotillos at Km. 182. There were some fantastic Super Bowl parties around town. Fat Boys had no cover charge, free munchies and free drinks every time the Cardinals scored. Happy Jack Ass had a $50 cover, which included any items off the appetizer menu, all well drinks and beer, shrimp, King Crab, prime rib and brownies. Jollymon and The Beach Bar hosted bashes as well, serving all the north folks with a great time and snacks. Don’t forget to get your Blues & Arts tickets for March 28! They are available all over town and online through www. bluesandar ts.com.

You can find a link on our website to take you there as well.

The Reflections are The Reflections no longer playing at Juanitos Cantina, but you can enjoy their music every Wednesday evening at Fandangos around 5:30 p.m.

Agave Blues has announced that Jason Bushong, guitar hero, has left the band for greener pastures in California. The legend is being replaced by local guitarist/vocalist, Jason Bushong Isaac Diaz. Check out the new Agave Blues each Saturday night at the Lighthouse.

Other continuing entertainment includes San Felipe’s 50 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

by Lisa Shannon

Best Entertainment 2008, the original surf-a-billy blues band, Vatos Locos, playing at The Beach Bar at Playa de Oro every Friday night. Email Heather Penrod bajabluzqueen@yahoo.com to get on their email list. Agave Blues and Vatos Locos will also be featured at the Blues and Arts Fiesta. The San Felipe Ladies Yacht Club announces that member Yolanda is getting married in May to her long-time love, Bob the Chocolate Lover. It’s about time! Blessings to them. Don’t forget that Wednesday night is Movie Night at the V Lounge. Manny will serve you while you enjoy a newly-released PG-13 flick. The San Felipe Baja 250 is coming up! Be sure to watch for reviews of the event in Mexico Living in April. It’s going to be a fun month, and we are all hoping the fantastic weather continues.

Baja 250 Preps

San Felipe, Baja California

Baja Lending Company

by Benjamin Eugene

Mary and Mike Whittaker Baja Lending Co

applications. For individuals with credit scores approaching 700 and documented income that would allow them to make a $700 monthly payment for every $100,000 they borrow, mortgage dollars are available. What many of their clients fail to understand is that to make a $700 payment, they need to currently be earning $1,600 that isn’t being used to debt service other credit purposes.

Lenders make credit decisions based on your credit report. If all of your income is eaten up on other mortgages, car payments, credit cards and revolving (department store) accounts, there is no money remaining to make a new mortgage loan payment.

Baja Closing & Escrow Services is involved with obtaining fideicomisos and escrowing purchase money funds for real estate transactions.

For anyone purchasing real estate in Mexico, they should understand that paying the seller or the real estate agency directly for property is unwise. The seller should not receive payment for real estate until the buyer has total assurance that the transaction is recognized by the Mexican government and all permits are in place and all liens are paid.

Mary has an undergraduate degree from Pepperdine University, and Mike has an MBA from Pepperdine and an undergraduate degree from Indiana University. Mike has been in banking and mortgage lending for 40 years and Mary is an accounting and computer software expert. These combined skills help them provide a very high level of service to their clients.

Now on their fourth year of business, they work seven days a week, and have two offices in San Felipe. They invite anyone who wants more information to call for an appointment and visit them at their office directly across from the new Pemex station. For more information, give them a call—from the U.S. call (760) 494-7053; from Mexico call (686) 576-0653— email them at info@bajalendingco.com or visit www.bajalendingco.com.

SAN FEL I PE

Mary and Mike Whittaker have been living full time in San Felipe for four years. They initially came to San Felipe on an El Dorado Ranch bus trip in 2004 and purchased a lot. In 2005, they purchased a villa in La Ventana Del Mar. Having raised three children in Southern California, they were looking for a location that would allow them to have a quality of life that would not be available in California on a fixed income and also a place close to their sons, who practice law in Palm Desert, and their daughter in Carlsbad. Now, they are 220 easy miles away from their children and their five grandchildren.

Today, Baja Lending Company has become a dominant mortgage broker in Baja and may have funded more loans than all the other mortgage brokers combined.

While credit tightening has excluded over 60 percent of individuals from qualifying for loans during the past three years, they have three lenders in place who are still accepting mortgage loan

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 51

San Felipe, Baja California

52 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

San Felipe, Baja California BUSINESS DIRECTORY (A-Z) ACCOUNTING/CONTABILIDAD CP E&A Accounting.....................................................686-577-0836

..................686-577-3144 The Beach Bar and Grill ........................................................707-237-1906 V Lounge ...............................................686-577-0060 Fandango’s JollyMon................................................................686-213-5647

Los Arcos - Happy Jackass

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

BEAUTY SALONS/SALONES DE BELLEZA ................................................686-573-2352 Hair By Nancy .......................................686-577-6253 Lilly Ana’s Day Spot 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 Alterations/sastre San Felipe Seamstress (Vickie Silva)......................686-175-5420

ART GALLERY Oasis Fine Art Gallery.............................................686-221-1245 ARTIST/ARTISTA . ............... E-mail: andrenajoyce@yahoo.com Andrena Joyce 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 ADULT CARE/ATENCION DE ADULTOS San Felipe Adult Living Facility................................686-576-0661

SAN FEL I PE

ARCHITECT/ARQUITECTO Freddy Hernandez..................................................686-946-7897 Licensed, CAD, Blue Prints, Graphic Design Rosa Lina Ramos Lazcano.....................................686-184-6172

Pro-Construction....................................................686-576-0430 Building Materials, Plumbing, Paint supplies Brick Block, Wood, & Hardware. Delivery Services Call us! . ..................................686-577-1515 Maderas de San Felipe

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

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San Felipe, Baja California

54 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

CHOCOLATE/CHOCOLATE Baja Chocolate Lovers ....................................686-576-0348

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

church Mission San Felipe.................................................686-577-0877

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

Sweitzer Construction Management

................686-577-0195

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

SAN FEL I PE

Mission San Felipe

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San Felipe, Baja California

DEVELOPMENTS/FRACCIONAMIENTOS Casablanca............................................................686-157-1728 Diamante Residencial.............................................686-569-2347 El Dorado Ranch....................................................686-577-0015 La Perla Del Mar.....................................................760-458-7602 Playa de Oro ...................................................686-576-0223 Playa del Paraiso.......................................... 888-647-5292 x 704 San Marino............................................................686-577-0611 San Rafael.............................................................686-576-0223 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 The Singout Sisters & Chuey (Karaoke) ...........686-576-0047

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EVENT SERVICES/servicios acontecimiento Produciones Baja...................................................686-576-1683 FINANCING/FINANCIAMIENTO Baja Lending Company.................... ......................686-576-0653 MexQuest Mortgage Corp......................Toll Free: 1-888-257-9162

San Felipe, Baja California

GYNECOLOGIST/GINECÓLOGO Annel Becerra Prado..............................................686-577-6350 HATS/sombreros Band It................................................................... 686-123-5147

FILM DEVELOPMENT/IMPRESION DE FOTOS Fotografia Alvarez...................................................686-577-1144

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

New Location!!!!

More Equipment!

Aerobic Classes!

Call for more info

SAN FEL I PE

Baja Nueva

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 Squats Gym . .................................................. 686-125-1555

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San Felipe, Baja California

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

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

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

bestinbaja@gmail.com

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 HOTEL/MOTEL - See the San Felipe Lodging/Dinning Guide Section

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

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 INTERIOR DESIGN/DISEÑO INTERIOR Baja Nueva............................................................686-211-4676

LAUNDRY SERVICE/LAVANDERÍA Wash Tub............................................................... 686-577-2001 LIFEGUARD/SALVAVIDAS San Felipe Lifeguards.............................................686-233-7730 Ask for Franscio LIQUOR/LICORERÍA Tecate Six - Julio....................................................686-119-0030

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San Felipe, Baja California 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 SunRunner Mail Center ................................... 686-147-6752 MASSAGE/MASAJE Casey’s Place (Massage).......................................686-577-1431

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

Sea Star Health Food Store..................................... 686-577-6250

60 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

San Felipe, Baja California MEDICAL SERVICES/SERVICIOS MÉDICOS Ambulance............................................................686-577-0500 Health Center........................................................ 686-577-1521 Red Cross..............................................................686-577-1544 San Felipe Hospital.................................................686-577-0117

PUBLICATIONS/PUBLICACIONES Gringo Gazette....................................................... 686-111-3692

Optometrists/Opthamologists California Optical....................................................686-577-0708 OpticaMaxi Vision................................................. 686-577-0320

Mexico Living Magazine......................................... 686-577-1377 San Felipe Newsletter.............................................686-577-2898

PHARMACY/FARMACIA Santa Fe Pharmacy ...............................................686-576-0546

Botica “Sagrado Corazon”...................................... 686-577-1294 PHOTOGRAPHY/FOTOGRAFÍA Casey Hamlin.com.................................................686-577-1431 Francisco Romo.....................................................686-577-1193 Ron Saunders........................................................686-576-0007 Victor Rodriguez Ratliff...........................................686-573-0222

REAL ESTATE/BIENES RAÍCES Amor Property . ..............................................686-577-0611 Baja Ranch & Sea Realty........................................686-577-1304 Baja 24/7 Construction & Real Estate.....................686-577-6196

SAN FEL I PE

PAINT/PINTURA John B. Ross.........................................................686-109-9544

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

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

Computer & Satellite Installation • Dish Network TV • Satellite Internet

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

686-577-2928

• Computers • DVD Rentals

shane@csibaja.com

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

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

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San Felipe, Baja California

62 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

San Felipe, Baja California SHOPPING MALL/CENTRO DE COMPRAS La Plazita...............................................................686-577-2119

WASTE MANAGEMENT/MANEJO DE DESHECHO San Felipe Disposal................................................686-121-1004

SPANISH LESSONS Kelly Walsh............................................................686-149-6747

WELDING SERVICES/SERVICIOS DE SOLDADURA Waldo The Welder..................................................686-226-3127

SPECIALTY STORES Sea of Cortez Salt..................................................686-209-0074

WINDOW CLEANING/LIMPIEZA DE VENTANAS Pro Window Cleaning.............................................686-590-6594

STORAGE/ALMACÉN Lock Box............................................................... 686-576-0606 San Felipe Storage Company.................................. 686-576-0432 TATTOOING/TATUAJES Baja Ink Spot Tattoo & Body Piercing......................686-577-2538 TIRE SHOP/lLANTERA Llantera Aguilar......................................................686-192-8462 TRANSLATION/TRADUCCIÓN Carlota Villagran B..................................................686-212-9951 TRANSPORTATION/TRANSPORTACIÓN Airport...................................................................686-577-1368 Taxi Service...........................................................686-577-1293 Bus Station ...........................................................686-577-1516

VETERINARY/VETERINARIO Hospital Animal......................................................686-577-1688 PETS.....................................................................686-577-2155

SAN FEL I PE

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

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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.

64 - 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

Governor’s Square on the Malecón in Old Port Puerto Peñasco” Photo by Rachel Pack

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.

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Puerto Peñasco, Sonora

Dining & Lodging Guide

Dining Off the Beaten Path Sandy’s Wings ‘n’ Things

If you drive to Cholla Bay from the north side of town, you drive right by Sandy’s Wings ‘n’ Things, and probably don’t even notice. Located on Boulevard Samuel Ocaña, Sandy’s has one of the only two palapas on the boulevard, so it is easy to find on the north side of the road. Owned and operated by Steve and Sandy Stratton, who are still learning about how things work in Mexico. On our first visit Steve was helping the propane delivery man figure out how to situate yet another size tank in the space carefully prepared for the “only” size, while Sandy anxiously awaited the propane supply to the kitchen.

Serving up favorites from north of the border, Sandy’s is the place to go for the biggest, meatiest chicken wings in Puerto Peñasco! With roots in Buffalo, Sandy knows wings and how to cook them perfectly. Tasty sauces range from sweet

66 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

by Gretchen Ellinger

barbecue to dragon breath hot, though to Steve’s disappointment, there was just no demand for the traditional blue cheese sauce, so that has gone the way of the buffalo. Burgers, anyone? Sandy’s are in the BEST tradition of the American classic, made one by one with fresh Sonoran beef, served with colorful fresh vegetables, crunchy lettuce and a generous side of perfectly cooked fries. If you aren’t yet convinced, take a look at the prices. $35 pesos for a burger and fries, $30 pesos for a half dozen wings—how can you go wrong?

To get to Sandy’s from downtown Puerto Peñasco, take Calle Constitucion north to Blvd Samuel Ocaño, turn right and proceed to the second stop sign. Do a U-turn at that intersection, and go back down Blvd Samuel Ocaño to the palapa on your right. Call Sandy’s at (638) 100-6455 to order ahead. ¡Buen Provecho!

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

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

PUER TO Pe ñasco

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 #)

PLACES TO EAT

American

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

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 Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 67

Puerto Pe単asco, Sonora

68 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Puerto Peñasco, Sonora

Shaping Dreams into Rooms An empty room of four walls and a ceiling is a blank canvas. And at times, it can simply be overwhelming to imagine the room in its completeness. A successful interior designer is an artist who can listen and interpret the shapeless visions of the homeowner and artfully contour these dreams into a reality. What is the function of the room? Will this space be for entertaining and partying? Will it be for relaxing and meditation? What are the habits of the homeowner? Will the focal point be a family heirloom or a prized painting?

Eddie Wharez is such an artist. His store and studio is Disenos Casa y Jardin, located on the Old Cholla road in Puerto Peñasco. Eddie, named by his mom after Edgar Allen Poe, was born in Pachuca, Mexico. He was raised in Guadalajara and worked in Puerto Vallarta. His past experiences in the management of a medical research facility along with being involved in the tourist industry may at first seem unrelated to his present work as a designer. But, Eddie points out that these work experiences actually prepared him in many very specific ways for his work as an interior designer.

Working in a scientific laboratory was structured work with strict codes and protocol. Likewise in design, there are some things that must be just right! For example, yardage for upholstery or drapes, measurements for room dimensions and furniture size, even colors and textures are precise equations that require an exacting eye. Similarly, his experience in the tourist industry helped Eddie to understand

by Naomi Black the value of being hospitable and friendly, making the homeowner feel at ease and reassured.

Disenos Casa y Jardin is a retail shopping experience. The store has been open for six years; although it has been at the Cholla location for two years. Music filters in the air and lamps provide a home-like ambience. The place is brimming with unique items that have been selected at World Markets from such exotic locales as Kenya, Spain, Cuba and Indonesia.

Come in and browse the store! You will find outdoor furniture made specifically to tolerate the salt air, indoor furniture, beautiful pictures, ornate mirrors, exquisite lamps, great replicas and statues along with local art and trinkets.

This is one-stop shopping, as you may place custom orders for specialty items such as blinds or even have a custom piece of furniture made. Disenos Casa y Jardin has six employees in the store; but also has a workforce that can accomplish every detail from installation of blinds, upholstering, painting (including faux finishes), cut glass tops for tables and even carpenters.

Whether your style is Modern, Contemporary, Traditional Mexican, Old Spain or Rustic, and whether your color choices are bright or muted, your preferences leather, wood, ironwork, wicker or chrome, stop by and discover Disenos Casa y Jardin!

PUER TO Pe ñasco

Disenos Casa y Jardin

Eddie Wharez is also the host of “Doce a dos” a local call-in radio show on Fridays at noon in which he answers decorating questions.

Disenos’ phone number is 383-8633; from the U.S. (602) 324-9328.

You may email Eddie at eddiewharez@yahoo.com.

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Puerto Peñasco, Sonora

The Art of Tequila

By Naomi Black

Fields of blue agave span in every direction from Tequila, Mexico; flourishing in the high altitude and semi-arid climate. Growing slowly in the sun and without irrigation, the plants are ready for harvest only once every decade or so.

The job of the jimador has remained unchanged for centuries; his skill being handed down from generation to generation. In the field, the leaves are manually chopped away from the plant’s heart, or piña. The leaves are tilled into the ground as fertilizer. Each harvested piña heart may weigh 150 pounds and are loaded into trucks and hauled to the distillery.

Inside huge ovens, the piñas cook for two days at 120 degrees. The distilleries open their ovens in the evening, and throughout the town of Tequila, the smell of cooking piñas lays heavy in the air. Mornings find a delicate layer of ash on porches and verandas.

The cooked piñas are then mashed and the liquid strained from the fiber and placed in vats to ferment for as much as 56 hours. After fermentation, the juices are placed in stainless steel stills Pina Fiber Piled or cauldrons where they are heated to a temperature of evaporation and then condensed back into liquid. A second distillation to remove all impurities; the end product is blanco tequila.

Sugars may be added and the young tequila is placed in wooden barrels to rest. “Joven” tequila is

Tequila Stills

young and may not be rested at all. “Reposado” has rested for at least two months and may be stored up to eleven months. “Anejo” is aged tequila and should be matured in oak barrels for at least a year and may be aged in these wood barrels for up to five years.

Joven and gold tequilas are 51% blue agave and are for mixing; 100% agave tequila is made to drink straight and at most should only be watered down with a bit of water or lime juice.

It seems that the worst hangovers arise from mixing 100% tequila with sugary mixes or sodas, since these sugars do not mix well!

In Puerto Penasco, Manny’s Tequila Factory offers tequila testing and a great selection of tequila for the enthusiast. JJ’s Cantina also offers their private label tequila. When talking about JJ’s brand tequila, Joe Anacleto always gives credit to his friend,

Pinas

Tequila Fields

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Manny Sanchez for his assistance and direction. For tequila history, trivia, a tequila tasting guide and pages of information, check out: www.tequilero.org This website includes this legendary and timeless tequila advice:

PUER TO Pe ñasco

Puerto Peñasco, Sonora

“Gentle reader, always try to drink only the good Tequila that you find on your way, but never allow Tequila to drink you.”

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Puerto Pe単asco, Sonora

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Puerto Peñasco, Sonora

Puerto Peñasco Scene

March Around Town with Tom and Rita

by Rita Pizarro and Tom Thomas

There has been a lot happening around town, we had the January Jam at JJ’s Cantina with Roger Clyne and the Peace Makers. The place was packed with fans from all over. Their next show will be the famous Circus Mexicus on June 6; learn more about the band and buy tickets at www.azpeacemakers.com.

April 24. Students of all ages compete in this annual contest to research and solve environmental issues and publicize the issue and promote sustainable use of natural resources. For more information, contact Paloma Valdivia or visit www.cedointercultural.org.

Velmoon’s Tae Kwon Do

The Uncommon Women on Common Grounds meeting was held at an unconventional locale this month, Sex City. We had a really good turnout and Lillian Vega took great care of the ladies. It was a successful first meeting for Rosie Glover, the new organizer. We all hope to see Phyllis Lefevre, founder of the group, in a meeting again soon!

Las Palomas Beach and Golf Resort is offering some great specials; every Tuesday in La Maria Restaurant, they have a Mexican Special and Thursday in Citron Restaurant it is Italian night, for just 155 pesos you get a full meal including appetizers, wine and dessert. Your children will be well taken care of at the resort’s Kids Club while you enjoy your upscale dinner at this beautiful resort.

Looking for lunch? Hacienda las Fuentes, located on Freemont Blvd, has a new “eight for eight dollar” menu; you can try the New Mexico cuisine with green and red chile dishes, from noon to 4 p.m.

Thirsty Parrot has been having specials every week. Thursday night, ladies drink free from 6 to 9 (special margaritas and frozen drinks); they also have KaraokeBingo and Dinner and a Movie, with the dinner special starting at US$5. Located in the Old Port where Catharine Boyle, owner/ partner, seems to have something different going on every week.

CEDO celebrated International Wetlands Day and launched the XV Environmental Contest: CEDO 2009 “Flying Until the End” is dedicated to migratory species of birds. The contest starts March 3 and ends

PUER TO Pe ñasco

Uncommon Women on Common Grounds

We are proud to have four Puerto Peñasco youngsters practicing at Velmoon’s Tae Kwon Do that are going to compete at national level after winning gold medals in the state competition.

Congratulations to Abraham Carrillo Luna (National Silver Medal 2006–2007), Francisco Andres Real Gutierrez (Bantham weight child category), Daniel Alexis Felix Cuevas (youth category champion for second year in a row) and Paola F. Acuna Angula (child welterweight).

The newly completed “Rocio del Mar” liveaboard diving and exploration boat, built right here by the locals in Puerto Peñasco, will soon be sailing the Sea of Cortez. Divers will be enjoying the mega-yacht lifestyle on this 110-foot vessel, which took almost three years to build. Offering dive trips, charters, special events and even weddings, they cater to San Felipe, San Carlos and other cities on the Sea of Cortez. Contact Dora Sandoval, owner/operator, or her brother, Manny Sierra, operations manager: www.rociodelmarliveaboard.com.

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Puerto Peñasco , Sonora

Puerto Peñasco, Sonora

Steak & Seafood

BUSINESS DIRECTORY (A-Z)

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

ACCOUNTING/CONTABILIDAD BBBS Inc.....................................................928 329-8000

PLACES TO STAY

ARTIST Marianne Menditto.......................................638-383-7616

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 74 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

ARCHITECT/ARQUITECTO . ......638 383-4710 Plinio Rivero Architects & Builders

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

Puerto Peñasco, Sonora DEVELOPMENTS/FRACCIONAMIENTOS Bella Vista ......................................... 638-388-7194 "Parayso" Desembembogue Devept..............638 388-5707 DOCTORS/DOCTORES Dr. Luis Vasquez, M.D. ................................638 383-3014

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

Fire Department/Departamento de Bomberos Fire Department................................... 638-383-2828/068 FINANCING/FINANCIAMIENTO Baja Lending Company......... ......................760-494-7053 Monex Financial...........................................638-388-5764

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

HOME INSPECTIONS Tom Thomas................................................602-748 4134

Puerto Peñasco, Mexico Fremont Blvd., Plaza Palmillas

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

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

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

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

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 www.realestaterockypoint.net susan_flinn@yahoo.com

REAL ESTATE SERVICES/servicios DE BIENES RAÍCES Baja Closing & Escrow Services...................686-576-0653 RECREATION/RECREACIÓN ................................638-103-2038 Kayak Rocky Point 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 ProAlliance Insurance................................... 638-383-2390

PUER TO Pe ñasco

FURNITURE/Mobiliario Disenos Furniture.........................................638-383-8633 Designs by Eddie Wharez Consign and Design ...................................638-110-6121

PARTY SUPPLIES/Fiestas provisiones Tips.............................................................638-383-3002 Stuff for your Events, Parties and Meetings POLICE/POLICÍA City Police Department . ..............................638-383-2626 State Police................................................. 638-383-2783

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

Seamstress/Modista Naomi Black (habla ingles)...........................638-388-5004 naomi@rhipeo.com TEQUILA Manny’s Tequila Factory...............................638-388-0607 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

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 75

San Carlos,/SGonora uaymas, Sonora

Looking down at the San Carlos bay in the early morning.

Photo by Rachel Pack

an Carlos is a beachfront subdivision within the port S 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

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 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.

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 76 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

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.

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 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 #01800-505-5018 U.S. Consulate – in Hermosillo: Monterrey #141 Rosales Street and Galeana Col. Esqueda. Open Mon-Fri 8:00am to 4:30pm Phone: 622-289-3500.

San Carlos Puerto S/anGPC uaymas eñasco arlos, Sonora

Garden Room Story Every day in San Carlos is perpetual astonishment.

The kiss of sun for pardon; the song of the seagull and pelicans for mirth . . . all the things of the universe are perfect miracles, each as profound as any. But, my garden is sacred. My grandmother used to say, “One is nearer to God’s heart in a garden, closer than anywhere else on earth.” The Amen! of nature is always a flower. Flowers and plants are silent presences; they nourish every sense except the ear, for they grow in silence.

With these lovely thoughts in mind, I decided two years ago, as I began the process of building my home, to develop it around an atrium in the center.

I so much enjoy the tranquil, uplifting beauty of my garden that I wanted to bring those healing qualities indoors to enjoy throughout the day and seasons in a garden room.

The idea was to capture, indoors, a unique spirit and style inspired by the seductiveness of my outdoor garden. That spirit is expressed in the love of growing things, the ocean breezes and the warm embrace of the sun. The result was a soothing sanctuary of orchestrated tropical foliage encased in large expanses of glass that brings the outdoors inside and creates a marvelous meditative peace and ease that are always to be found in my garden.

Soft seafoam green walls are the subtle backdrop for charming decorative details—potted tropical palms and succulents, beautiful plates, a wrought iron bistro set, eye-catching touches of blue and white pots, a white iron container with a bird perched on the top filled with various shades of blue and green sea glass, a glass bird feeder filled with seashells instead of bird seed. An old antique sun dial proudly sits in the center of it all casting its shadow as the lazy sun peers down through the open top of the

Photo by Lynn Prince

PUER SAN TOCARLOS Pe ñasco

by Lynn Prince

atrium. A small peach colored lizard has scaled the wall and joined the montage and keeps the spiders and ants away.

But, it is lacking water and I soon plan to add a wall fountain. There’s something about the tinkling sounds of running water that brings peace to the soul.

One of the greatest rewards of my leafy, light atrium is the joy it brings me when everything outdoors is cold and gray. Since my kitchen, living room and master bedroom all touch the atrium, that sense of the outdoors fills my house inside, and fills me with a sweet sense of being in a garden continually.

You may not have an atrium in the middle of your house, but any space such as a sunroom, veranda, porch or any ordinary room with windows can be transformed into a light, airy garden room that is tranquilly reminiscent of a garden.

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 77

San Carlos,/SGonora uaymas, Sonora

Entertainment Rocks in San Carlos

By Lynn Prince

Omar Arriaga

OMAR ARRIAGA Mexico Living’s winner of BEST OF 2008 entertainment category, El Pianista Omar Arriaga is truly a rising star. Immediately inviting and ever evolving, his kaleidoscope coloring, tenderness and emotional richness on the keyboard along with flashes of humor make for a fresh and intriguing ride.

View his videos on YouTube.

DANNY MORENO Utopia’s lead singer goes solo on Thursdays at La Palapa Restaurant from 5–8 p.m. His beautiful voice and mystical guitar magic make for a captivating evening.

Danny Moreno Danny studied at the National Conservatory of Music, and the Conservatorio de las Rosas for classical viola, and writes many of his enchanting songs.

ERIC HOLLAND Folk, latino, spanglish, border, ballads are some of the pictures that provocative singer/ songwriter Eric Holland evokes on his acoustical Eric Holland guitar and harmonica.

Holland is a popular balladeer whose heartwrenching music awakens your spirit to the turbulent border issues of the Mexican people and has resulted in two CDs: Sin Fronteras and American Immigrante.

THE TWINS/LOS GIACOMAN Two sets of twins make up this handsome, latinomale ensemble that is a syncrestic feast of Middle Eastern, Latin, gypsy and jazz blends that create joyful music that has you dancing and toe tapping to their fresh, creative renditions of classic and contemporary hits.

Four wonderful CDs available.

Mark Mulligan Utopia

MARK MULLIGAN With eight albums, Mark is an iconic figure in San Carlos who plays to a packed house wherever he performs. His music style has evolved over the years to what he terms “Trop ROC.” Having a philanthropic heart, he combines his music with doing something that benefits the community— Castaway Kids. www.markmulligan.net.

78 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

UTOPIA Exultant rock… HOT! HOT! HOT! Utopia is a celebration of the pagan spirit embodied by rock and roll. Come and be prepared to be launched into another matrix with virtuoso singer Danny Moreno and six impressively skilled musicians as their explosive energy makes the timbers of the palapa tremble.

LUNA Gerardo Munoz and his sister Norma are the lead singers for this stunning group, with tenderly skillful backup guitarists Gilberto, Jorge and Cheyenne. A giant voice for such a young man, 19-year-old Gerardo with his huge, soulful, puppy-dog brown eyes and infectious

San Carlos Puerto S/anGPC uaymas eñasco arlos, Sonora

Luna

PETER POPE JONES Manic, wild, charming, and drenched with the typical dry wit of an Englishman, this gifted guitarist and jazz/blues vocalist will delight you with his unique style. Peter is now at La Palapa on Tuesday from 5–8 p.m.

Peter Pope Jones

PUER SAN TOCARLOS Pe ñasco

smile will touch your heart with his stirring voice. Gerardo will soon debut in a musical in Hermosillo.

Familia Band

FAMILIA BAND If you like to dance, Tequila’s is the hot spot to be on Friday and Saturday nights, 9 p.m.–3 a.m., with Family Band’s awesome soft rock dance music. Together six years, this talented group’s accomplished sound and harmonic mixture makes for a great evening.

BOBBY AND LESLIE SAHLEN These two were crazy enough to be married on talk show radio in Dallas 20 years ago. They are vibrant, h i g h - e n e r g y, immensely talented, fun-loving musicians, who march to their own drummer. Visit www.gatorlegs.com and download free music, or grab their latest CD, Life’s Much Better in Mexico.

Bobby and Leslie Sahlen

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 79

San Carlos,/SGonora uaymas, Sonora

Semana Santa Beach Fiesta

by Christa Thomas

The week leading up to Easter will see an influx of thousands of people into Sonora’s beachside towns.

This is a popular time for family vacations. And what better place to spend it than on a sandy palm-lined beach?

Semana Santa, or Holy Week, goes from Palm Sunday to Easter. This year it will be celebrated from April 5 to 12. It is Mexico’s second most important holiday season, after Christmas. For Christians, Semana Santa commemorates the last week of the earthly life of Jesus Christ, which ended with his crucifixion on Good Friday. This holiday is particularly important in Mexico, which is nearly 90 percent Catholic, and the entire community participates in the week-long proceedings.

The religious events can include solemn but colorful parades, and Mass on Good Friday and Easter Sunday. There are often also fireworks.

School children have a two-week holiday, and many companies close shop during that time so that their employees can spend time with their families.

For some, it is time to spend in church, but many Mexicans will also take advantage of the holiday to

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go on vacation. And, for their vacation, half of Mexico flocks to the beaches looking to play in the surf, camp on the beach, spend time with family and friends, and to dance, drink and have a fiesta.

Yes, Semana Santa is noisy and crowded and the traffic can be horrible, but it’s a fantastic Mexican celebration that should be experienced at least once.

You will not regret or soon forget sharing in the excitement of a whole town celebrating together.

By day the beaches are overflowing with tourists and locals alike, flying kites, swimming and soaking up the beautiful weather—enjoying fun in the sun and a couple cervezas. If you need to drive anywhere,

Photos by Christa Thomas

this is the time to do it, because by late afternoon, the roads are bumper to bumper with trucks, cars, ATVs and motor bikes cruising up and down the strip. The vehicles are loaded to overflowing with people. Whole families ride on ATVs. And, speakers and plastic Tecate chairs in the back of pickup trucks convert them into parties on wheels.

From one end of the town to the other, celebrants, young and old, families and friends fill the streets.

Thirsty revelers guzzle Pacifico and Tecate. The already raucous atmosphere is pumped up even higher with roving musicians who add to the cacophony coming from hundreds of vehicles’ sound systems turned up to the max. People dance in large groups anywhere and everywhere that the feeling moves them.

Vendors line the street selling everything from souvenirs and sunglasses to local crafts. The mouthwatering smell of BBQ wafts through the air. All the local food specialties are available, from ceviche to carne asada. In addition to all the regular restaurants, there are dozens of temporary stalls set up to sell these tasty eats.

Sandy beaches, tantalizing cuisine, cold beer and music. What are you waiting for? Book your trip now to one of Sonora’s beach resorts and experience

PUER SAN TOCARLOS Pe ñasco

San Carlos Puerto S/anGPC uaymas eñasco arlos, Sonora

the joy that is Semana Santa. The hotels will fill to capacity, so book early or come ready to camp on the beaches.

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 81

San Carlos,/SGonora uaymas, 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 #) 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 82 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

BUSINESS DIRECTORY (A-Z) DENTISTS American Dental......................... San Carlos 622-226-2167

Nogales 520-631-5263

Fire Department/Departamento de Bomberos Fire Department (call Rescate).....................622-226-0911 Rescue Squad/EMT's (Rescate)....................622 226-0911 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 MISCELLANEOUS Dolphin Assistance Foundation.....................622-227-7657 POLICE/POLICÍA San Carlos Policia........................................622-226-1400 State Policia.................................................622-226-1540 Commisario Sergio Garcia............................622-226-0004 Real Estate Long Realty Seaside.....................................622-226-2188 Joyas de Country.........................................622-226-1406 ReSTAURANTS La Palapa Griega..........................................622-227-3751 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

People & Voices

An American in Baja: BILL

by Audrey Coffman

no man behind. Now, in his late 70s, he still lives by these rules. Bill keeps his promises, helps his neighbors and protects his friends.

All he asks of life, in return, is a low-scoring round of golf, a cocktail or two and a soak in the hot tub, with his wife, Vivianne, by his side. And if you’re lucky, they’ll invite you over for a homecooked meal. Bill does comfort food; goulash, meat loaf and his special spaghetti sauce. He and Viv enjoy nourishing their buddies. Cold drinks, lively discussion of politics or history (Did I mention that Bill is extremely well read?) and a serenade. It makes for a lovely evening.

Like many Americans here, Bill is talented, accomplished and generous. And like many Americans here, he’d rather not make a big deal out of it.

Semper Fi, Bill.

PEOPL E & VOI C ES

SAN FELIPE – Bill writes songs; country-style ballads that speak of love and loss, promises and pain. Gordon’s Gin, a melancholy ballad, has become an anthem of sorts here in San Felipe. Like all good artists, he creates from his experience, from what lies in his heart.

He coaxes sweet sounds from his guitar and sings with perfect pitch and authenticity.

I first met Bill at a poker party. He is tall, solidly built and well-tanned. With Bill sitting to my left, pointing out the fact that he could see my cards, and my knowing that I stink at Texas Hold’em, I said “goodbye” to my fifty bucks with the first deal.

Bill is wily and competitive, but so much more… as I discovered.

He is something of a legend on the golf course.

A single-digit handicapper, he appreciates the beauty and challenge of Las Caras de Mexico more than anyone. He gives lessons to us hackers, valuable tips on swing and grip, and rides around early in the morning, picking up trash and filling divots. If you see him in the distance, you’ll know it’s Bill out there by the way he sits in the cart, arms and shoulders hunched over the steering wheel and driving full-out. He plays with focus and intensity.

If you’re a genuine friend of his, he’ll share some of his history with you. A career Marine, Bill served his country in Korea and Vietnam.

Wounded many times and much commended for his actions, he recounts his past in anecdotes without braggadocio. Like a true warrior, he did his duty, protected his fellow Marines and left

Get more info: www.mexicoliving.info - 83

People & Voices

Irish Eyes are Smilin’

Centavo’s Two Cents

by Centavo

This month celebrates my one year anniversary as a columnist for Mexico Living! When I look back I am amazed that my friendship circle has grown along with the volume of this magazine.

The acquaintances that I have made are better than the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow… without the tricks and foolery of the leprechaun.

My mother was born on St. Patrick’s Day (March 17) and surely she has had the luck of the Irish throughout her life. This birthday was the magic that shaped my life.

March was the month that I was lucky enough to have attended the Blues and Art Fiesta 2008. For such a venue to happen in our town was beyond every expectation. The bands and the art booths were fabulous and it was the event that would shape my behavior for the rest of the year.

The Lions Club, along with other sponsors, has been responsible for this incredible production. Members have put their heart and soul into making this the largest fundraiser of the year. It is their goal to make this a premier event for San Felipe and all of Baja. Saturday, March 28, will mark the third time that people will be anxious to be part of it. It is worth the travel time to be with us.

Somewhere, someone decided that green was the color of hope. I like green. It is my second favorite color. I like what it represents.

84 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

The Sonshine Hacienda, the place that children can find “hope,” is presently being constructed with donations of the “green” from the profits of the Blues and Arts Fiesta. Last month we were able to tour the progress of these buildings that will house our children when they need a safe and comforting place to stay. It is remarkable to be able to finally visualize the sincere efforts of our community in this endeavor.

You don’t have to be Irish to celebrate the month of March, but on the 17th, it is an unwritten law to wear green and knock down a few beers. (Green beer if you want luck for the rest of the year!)

Centavo is already lucky… but not wishing to tempt fate. I will be out and about looking to share a beer and a few laughs with my friends. Ahhh… yes! With salt in my beard… wait I don’t have a beard… and a cold mug in my hand… don’t have a mug… I will cast my eyes to the sea… I have those! I will brave desert sun, wind, storm, rain, shopping lines, border waits, Leprechaun tricks and peso exchanges. Green, blue, and purple bills will fall from my hands and onto a bar. I will conjure up fantasies of pirates and whales and treasures, pots of gold, rainbows, and sailing ships, and shipmates, and brave captains, and pirate maps. I will be singing sea shanties, dreaming of the treasure chest that I will find in a cave or buried in the sand… and that’s just after my first beer.

People & Voices

Baja Blunders

By Katrina Tinoco

it is a sauce. Wow, imagine my relief until she told me it was made from chocolate, chilies, peanuts and all kinds of stuff that did not sound so palatable especially as it is going to be poured over nopales, otherwise known as bits of cactus, bringing me to the conclusion that these people really don’t like me and are out to poison me so their son can marry a nice Mexican girl who knows how to cook. So, the nopales are on the stove and the water is bubbling over in a gluey mess—reminding me of something out of a Stephen King novel. Oh yes, and for good measure, why don’t we just bite into a raw chile? Wow! Now I know where the Mexican folkloric dances come from—bite into a habanero… aaah, mouth on fire… stamp your feet like crazy, and run around in circles in search of a cold beer!

So after 22 years, I still have the same in-laws, husband and own a restaurant, but am forever wary of some of the local cuisine. Tripas are intestines; Menudo is not a boy band, it is a tripe stew (supposedly good for hangovers, although I will opt for Tylenol). Lengua… tongue… Cuitlocochtle, black fungus that grows on corn and very difficult to pronounce, and Higado… liver—not to be confused with the hero of the Mexican independence whose name was Hidalgo (don’t want to order a plate of him with onions!).

I must admit that I am now a huge lover of chicken mole, nopal salads and I load salsa and chile onto everything I can. So, I suppose you can teach an old dog to make tacos. Mexican fare is ranked as one of the world’s most diverse and top-rated international cuisines, so maybe it is worth the pain and suffering to try as much of it as possible. And McDonalds?…

Not so great!

PEOPL E & VOI C ES

Part of the adventure when visiting a foreign country is to taste the local cuisine. When I first came to the USA, I had never ever seen a McDonald’s (although I now realize that this has nothing to do with either local nor cuisine) and I was so impressed with the wonders of this establishment that, upon returning to England, I bored the hell out of all my friends with my enthusiastic accounts of milkshakes that were made with ice cream; hamburgers that were served with such delicacies as cheese, bacon and salad; the employees’ uniforms; and the size of everything… huge! I had never tasted a nectarine, never heard of rocky road, mud pie or strawberry shortcake—I was in junk food heaven, and the size of everything… huge!

I could not believe that you paid for one cup of coffee and could drink as many refills so as to make you pee and shake for the rest of the day, or of all the choices that came with breakfast—whole wheat, rye, sunny side up, over easy, round plate, square plate, etc.—and the size of everything… huge.

No wonder my dream was to live in California some day, which I achieved some 22 years ago. Problem was I floated a little too far south and ended up with a completely different food dilemma—tortillas and chilies—something that I had never seen in my local fish and chip joint back home. Now as to ordering from the menu here—yes, it’s all in Spanish. Okay… quesadillas… not a clue… mole… Well, I have seen the movie Caddy Shack and I am not about to eat furry little gopher things. Tripas… sounds like intestines or some kind of guts which I do not have enough of to try them. Aaahhh, hamburgesa sounds familiar… and the size… not so big.

Therefore, the logical solution to my dilemma was a simple one; marry a man who owns a restaurant.

(I know you are all kicking yourselves saying, “Why didn’t I think of that?”) One would think problem solved; well, one would be dead wrong! Along come the in-laws, who, from the goodness of their hearts, wanted to help me learn Mexican culture and customs (one of which, so they told me, was to cook for your in-laws on a regular basis).

They began by trying to teach me how to prepare some good “home-style” national dishes and promptly introduced me to “nopales in mole.”

What, what??!! It’s that darned mole thing again. Do we have to run around chasing down little squirrellike critters at the local golf course? My mum-in-law explained that mole is pronounced “mole-ay” like olé in Spain and has nothing to do with the local wildlife,

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Explore, Discover, Get Out and See Mexico

Acapulco

by Brandon Black

Acapulco is the perfect place for tourists in search of magnificent Pacific beaches and luxurious hotels.

But this port city offers much more than tanning and margaritas. With more than five million visitors annually, Acapulco, located in the state of Guerrero, is a world-class mecca for those who are looking for culture, luxury, dining, adventure and an array of exciting activities.

One world-class event that you can enjoy in Acapulco this month is the Abierto Mexicano Telcel (Mexican Tennis Open), which will take place on February 23–28. Among the many players, who will participate in this year’s Open 500, you’ll find David Nabaldian for the ATP and Venus Williams for the WTA. This event is the most important in the Latin America tour for the ATP. Whether you are looking for a vacation with your family, your friends or your loved one, this charming port city has the perfect setting for you. From scuba diving to shopping, and from fishing to dining, you can’t go wrong if you fly away to Acapulco.

The 5 Musts: 1. Witness the incredible cliff divers as they jump from cliffs 112 feet high into about 13 feet of water at La Quebrada.

2. Visit the San Diego Fort with its 10 exhibition halls, which holds Acapulco and Mexico’s history.

3. Swim with the dolphins at CiCi Waterpark and also enjoy the water slides, animal shows and the wave pool.

4. Enjoy the famous nightlife; Baby’O and Palladium are two good options.

5. Stroll down El Parazal flea market in search of unique handicrafts, gold, silver or obscure pieces of art.

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Travel & Road Trips Around Mexico

The Less-traveled Road to Mexico

by Ricardo Lumbardo

Take the Off-beaten Path You can start your trip at Merida. Also called the White City, it reminds you so much of the values and history of the Yucatan. Nevertheless, for the past few years, it has never really caught up with other towns like Puerto Vallarta, Acapulco, and Cabo San Lucas, to name a few, in terms of popularity. It’s instead a beautiful and secret hideaway for those who want to escape the beach and the growing population of other Mexican cities.

Merida is filled with several old structures, dating as far back as the eighteenth century. You can still find the roads to be made of cobblestones, while the cathedrals still appear too old. Everywhere you look, you can feel the Old World charm of the town, except that there may be some shopping centers, entertainment areas, and other conveniences that combine perfectly with the old architecture. It’s also slowly transforming into a haven for retirees, for people who love peace and a laid-back lifestyle during their sunset years.

You can also venture to Veracruz, which is filled with mementos of civilizations that flourished in Mexico several centuries ago. Somewhere near the capital city is the ruins of Totonac, which may have been built between 400 and 900 AD. One of the most striking is El Tajin, or Temple of the Storm Gods.

Legend has it that this was the home of the divine and superpowerful beings that had the ability to regulate the occurrence of storms atop the hills of Veracruz.

The structure is also close to other interesting architecture, such as the Great Xicalcoliuhqui, Ball Courts, Tajin Chico, and Plaza Arroyo. There are also monuments that were erected in honor of their heroes like 13 Rabbit.

T R AVEL & ROAD TR I P S

Just when you thought that you’ve explored every nook and cranny of Mexico, or that you’ve studied the place and know it by heart, better think again. There could still be a number of less-traveled locations that you may not heard of or that you may have never visited even once.

Don’t forget to include the Chihuhuan Desert where you can literally travel to a whole new world every time you go in to the Cave of Crystals. As the name implies, you can see a wide variety of crystal formations on the floors and roof of the cave, rather than the usual rock formations. The cave was discovered in 2000 by two miners who were digging a tunnel. The large ones have a length of more than 20 feet. You can also proceed to Cave of the Swords, which is just close to the Cave of Crystals. They even have bigger crystals, some of which are now displayed in Smithsonian Institution.

Nevertheless, you can better enjoy your exploration to these less-traveled places if you can have a comfortable accommodation afterward. You can choose to stay in Grupo Mayan, where you can be pampered after every trip in the sauna or spa. You can also go for room service. There’s still a lot more that you don’t know about Mexico, but now is the time to do so.

About the Author: Enjoy Mexico more by exploring those areas that are seldom traveled by tourists and foreigners. This will give you ample time to know more about the country’s history and culture. But while you’re at it, you may want to stay at a Grupo Mayan hotel, where you can look forward to hours of pampering after a long trip. You can visit http:// www.grupomayanvacations.com to get more details. Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/camping-articles/thelesstraveled-road-to-mexico-589307.html

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Real Estate & Development

Open House

Luxury Beachfront Condominiums Awarded Public Report in Arizona Puerto Peñasco, Sonora, (Rocky Point) – Puerto Peñasco’s premiere luxury residential development, Tessoro at Las Conchas, announced its Final Public Report for Arizona on Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2009. This news will mark an expanded presence

by Tessoro at Las Conchas in Arizona and open exciting new opportunities for Arizona realtors. The development is also gaining popularity in California, where completion of the New Coastal Highway has opened up the Puerto Peñasco market.

Tessoro at Las Conchas has been Sonora’s most eagerly awaited beachfront project in recent memory and plans to begin delivering its first residences in the spring of 2009.

Set majestically on a peninsula within the prestigious Las Conchas gated community, Tessoro is expected to raise the bar for development in Puerto Peñasco, bringing a whole new level of luxury and amenity to the fast-growing market. The project offers full-ownership condominium residences and expects to compete favorably with Coronado Island in San Diego and the top resorts in Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.

Tessoro at Las Conchas is an architectural marvel crafted to be conducive to comfort, elegance and refinement. All residences are accessed directly by penthouse-style elevators with a sophisticated electronic key card system (leaving no shared hallways). All residences offer ocean-front terraces and rear balconies overlooking the Morua Estuary and Pinacate Volcano. All residences offer private, outdoor spa tubs overlooking the Sea of Cortez. And all are designed to bring the building blocks of nature

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seamlessly into your home, with river stone, alder wood, granite and marble.

The development’s common areas are just as impressive. Luxury Home Magazine, reviewing the project, noted that “with resort-level amenities including a spa, infinity pools, yoga retreat, tennis, putting greens, boutique restaurant and sky lounge, [these] up and coming architects from ar+k Arquitectos… have certainly raised the bar for Puerto Peñasco.”

The location of the development also is unique within the Puerto Peñasco market, offering a rare mix of nature, exclusivity and accessibility to the town center. Tessoro fronts over 600 feet of pristine, soft, sandy beach near the mouth of the Morua Estuary. Not only is this the finest natural beach in Puerto Peñasco, but it is a short walk from a protected and muchstudied estuary offering acclaimed biodiversity – sea turtle nesting sites, rare birds, shrimp and oyster hatcheries and occasional visits by dolphins and sea lions.

Tessoro further distinguishes itself for being among the best planned and most financially secure projects in Sonora or Baja – an increasingly important consideration. The Arizona Public Report approval, rare for a Mexican project, is yet another indicator of Tessoro’s reliability and superior commitment to quality.

For more information about Tessoro at Las Conchas, please visit www.tessoro.com.mx or call (602) 476-2396. Canadians can also visit www.tessoro4canada.com.

R EAL ESTATE

Northwest Mexico Real Estate

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Real Estate & Development GET LISTED TODAY List your restaurant, cafe, hotel, motel, campground for only $48 per year. Call 686-230-9933 today and you can be in the next month!

90 - The ONLY Monthly Guide to Northwest Mexico

Northwest Mexico Real Estate

El Mirador Puerto Peñasco – The El Mirador neighborhood in Puerto Peñasco is often overlooked by property shoppers, and should definitely be considered! El Mirador is that area located on the other side of Whale Hill from Old Port, with Blvd Fremont marking the north boundary, and a gorgeous sandy beach marking the neighborhood’s south boundary.

Located close to, or on, the beach as well as close to the tourist district, and the heart of town, El Mirador is ideally located.

Every type property, in nearly every price range, can be found in El Mirador. There are properties for sale in small gated communities, townhome developments, and condominium developments off and on the beach; there are individual homes, at least one large estate

property, and a beachfront development parcel, all listed in the Puerto Peñasco MLS. The area is served by city water and sewer, and while many of the streets are still unpaved, that situation is changing as Puerto Peñasco improves infrastructure. Prices range from very affordable to over $1 million. A local licensed realtor will be able to help you find properties in your price range and, with the variety available, chances are good that this neighborhood may become your new home away from home!

With easy beach access that can be reached by walking less than a mile from anywhere in the neighborhood, and services, restaurants, nightlife and convenience stores all located in the area, plus its close proximity to the rest of Puerto Peñasco, El Mirador merits a close look and serious consideration by shoppers for vacation homes and investors alike.

R EAL ESTATE

by Gretchen Ellinger

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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.

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Spanish Quiz and Tips – Remember that every vowel in Spanish is pronounced individually. Cable is

pronounced “cab-lay”; maple is “map-lay.” Think of how we pronounce words like guacamole, tamales, and fajita, all of which we automatically know how to pronounce.

1. What is the capital of Peru?

BR AI N GAMES

Brain Games & Fun

2. In Spanish the word for tongue is lengua. What word in English has the same latin root?

3. Comer is the verb “to eat.” Comida means “food.” Which room in the house do you think is the “comedor”?

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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, B.C. Narcotics anonymous. English Speaking Recovery Meetings every Tuesday Night at 6 p.m. 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 meets in the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month at 6 p.m. at Los Arocs 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 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.

ENTERTAINMENT SAN FELIPE, B.C. The BEST Karaoke in town at Juanito’s Cantina hosted by Maria Arnold; Thursday nights 6:00pm. Come and sing like a STAR!

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

REAL ESTATE LISTINGS SAN FELIPE, B.C. Ejido: 1 ac. outstanding view lots, $39,000. no utilities.

FOR SALE SAN FELIPE, B.C. 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.

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

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A VERY SPECIAL HOME> UNIQUE tire construction, artist designed w/ 2 mstr suites. roof deck, patio, fenced, garage, landscaped, city util. $169,000. owner financing avail. andrenajoyce@yahoo. com cell 686 210 4598. Also a 1 ac. outstanding view lots 39,000. no util., a 2 ac. Blk of lots 45,000. no util., a 40 mt x 40 mt lot , util avail.may split into 2 lots $26,000.20 mt x 40 mt with septic installed, water, elec and fenced $16,900.

PUERTO peñasco, SONORA Sandy Beach Princesa Condo Located “ON” the beach- 2br/2ba, fully furnished, assumable note & seller is willing to carry! Reduced from $280k to $225,000. Contact Century 21 Heidi Wosak 638-388-1295 or 480626-4687.

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.

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.

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.

NO PEEKING UNTIL YOU HAVE AT LEAST TRIED

ANSWERS FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

INN FOR SALE. The Dreamweaver Inn corporation is an old port business and income property. This inn is fully furnished and sits across from Governors Square with large veranda over looking the sea and malecon.

The Inn has a 2 bd/2bth main casa and 5 rental units all with bath and kitchenettes, cable TV, Internet, private entrances of main patio.

Contact Diane (Inn Keeper/Owner) for additional information or appointment to view US 623-734-4335.

Rosarito, B.C Home For Sale on Rosarito’s Gold Coast The best location, location, location at Descanso (Km. 55 TJ-Ens. toll road) w/ ocean and mtn. 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 619573-4034, or email: bajayadayada@ gmail.com, for viewing.

RENTAL LISTINGS Rosarito, B.C Large House for rent. 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, furnished, fireplace, garden, carport, view, big porch llocated in La Mision. $650 per month. MX 646155-0011 or US 619-270-8991.

Baja Malibu. Cute furnished studio with DISH TV and utilities included.

Walk to beach, secure and private $260 mo. 646-614-1270

Winner of Best Beach for two years in a row! Enjoy the Cove and Beach by the day, week or month. Email vcantu@thegrid.net for information.

Beautiful two bedroom, two bath, large corner landscaped yard with three covered patios. Fully gated and with garage and drive-through driveway. Great sea and mountain view. $249,000. Call 686-109-2437.

SERVICE AC/Refrigeration Service and Evaluation by qualified, certified technician. Cell number (686) 2314921.

WANTED Wanted all and any vehicles working or not $$$. Please call 686-1730424 ask for Ray.

LIST YOUR ITEM 20 words or less for FREE

SAN FELIPE B.C. “Casita for rent at Cantu’s Cove,

686-230-9933

CL ASSI FI ED

Las Conchas Second Row Home & Guest Cottage- 3br/3ba 50ft from beach, remodeled in 2005, in excellent condition. Only $499,000 Contact Century 21 Sun & Sand Brad Henderson 638-388-1295 or 480626-4687.

Spanish Quiz Answers – 1. Lima. Tip: When you say “Lima, Peru,” you are

pronouncing the vowels in Spanish as they should be. When seeing a word written, try to think of the correct vowel sounds, then try to read it. It’s not so difficult! 2. Language.

3. Dining room.

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