rockypointtimes@yahoo.com • find us on facebook • follow us on twitter • www.rptimes.com
1
2
The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
rockypointtimes@yahoo.com • find us on facebook • follow us on twitter • www.rptimes.com
Editorial by Lannette Phipps
Founder's/Owner's Thomas Nelson O'Hare III (RIP 1941-2013) Sandra Jo O'Hare (RIP 1946-2018) The Rocky Point Times Newspaper is a tourist newspaper which has been family owned and operated since 1993. We have always been dedicated to helping and promoting the community in which we have lived, full-time, since 1991.We pride ourselves on bringing tourists and locals entertainment as well as helpful and accurate information. ROCKY POINT TIMES STAFF Lannette Phipps – Editor Patrick Kilcullen – Managing Editor Alicia Grajeda – Administrative Executive Marco Zepeda – Sales and Accounts Executive Beatriz Lumbreras – Freelance Graphic Artist MONTHLY CIRCULATION/DISTRIBUTION The RPTimes is hand delivered to Puerto Peñasco, MX and Lukeville and Ajo, AZ. We have an average of over 400 monthly subscribers from all over the U.S. and Canada. SUBSCRIPTIONS 1 year subscription (12 months) is $35 USD Go to www.rptimes.com and click on subscriptions or mail your check to Rocky Point Times LLC, PO Box 887, Lukeville, AZ 85341. ADVERTISING/AD DEADLINE Deadline for ads is the 10th of the month preceding publication (Sept. 10th for Oct. edition). Call or email us for ad rates. MEXICO OFFICES: Ave. Agustin Melgar (off of Samuel Ocaña), Pto. Peñasco, Son. Mexico 83550 Col. Nueva Esperanza U.S. MAILING ADDRESS PO Box 887, Lukeville, AZ 85341 PHONE/EMAIL From the U.S. call (480) 463-6255 Local call 383-6325 rockypointtimes@yahoo.com WEBSITE/SOCIAL MEDIA www.rptimes.com Facebook: Rocky Point Times Newspaper Twitter: @RockyPointTimes. CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Anita Kaltenbaugh, Allen Schwartz Cap'n Greg, Cholla Charli Joseph Sanchez, Kathleen Duncan Mark Paliscak, Rosarie Salerno Rob Baylor, Vince Deadmond Linda & Bo Bernard, Stephanie Wood PHOTO & ARTICLE SUBMISSION The Rocky Point Times is not responsible for the content of any advertising, nor has it attempted to verify any ad claims. Content contained in this publication is not authorized to be copied or reproduced without the permission of the Editor and Advertiser or Contributing Writer.
A
dios 2020! Bienvenido 2021! I know we’re all glad to get 2020 behind us and welcome in 2021. What a terrible and wonderful year all wrapped up in one. We do hope that everyone has come into the New Year healthy and happy and we thank each and everyone of you for supporting the Rocky Point Times Newspaper and our community. We are so fortunate to live in such a beautiful place, surrounded by compassionate and caring people. Last year definitely brought out our community spirit, as you will read in many of our contributing writers’ articles this month. Thank you to all who helped others (and the animals) last year. And thank you all for your continued support of our community – whether you donate to local charities, or patronize our businesses, your support is greatly appreciated. We have a lot of new part-time and full-time residents here in Rocky Point since the real estate market never seemed to slow last year. So, welcome to Puerto Peñasco…you’re going to love it here! This next year we hope to have a lot to look forward to, from Encantame Towers delivering the first of their three towers in the Spring, to Roger Clyne and The Peacemakers returning for their many live concerts, to the return of our Annual Rocky Point Motorcycle Rally and tons of other events. Puerto Peñasco is a
very friendly and social place and much of our life revolves around going out, the beach, group events, and being out and about – always meeting new people and seeing friends. It has been difficult to not hang out with our friends at darts, cornhole, pickleball and potlucks, or to pack onto the sunset cruises with them, and to not shake hands when meeting someone, and not giving hugs and a peck-peck when greeting a friend – it’s all just been weird and a little depressing. I, for one, want to go back to our “old normal”, so please continue to abide by whatever safety protocols our city has in place when you visit, and let’s hope we never hear the words “new normal” again – except for those of you not washing your hands - wash your hands… that is now your new normal! For the latest safety protocols, such as curfews and mask mandates, you can check our Facebook page and, if you don’t have social media, feel free to give us a call or send an email. (I should’ve been practicing on my dartboard during quarantine so when the tourney’s start back up at Pink Cadillac, I could open a can of whoop-ass on my friends, Pat Foss and Larry “Bubba” Rice!) It’s hard to believe that a year ago a bunch of us locals left Peñasco aboard the Astoria, cruising the Sea of Cortez for 11 days. What a fantastic trip – we explored a lot of great cities, had a great time with our crew, and some of us even swam with whale sharks in La Paz (me, yes, it was me!). Obviously, we don’t know what is going to happen with the cruise industry, let alone cruise ships to our home port in Rocky Point, but
3
I am still optimistic they are still in our future. Naysayers beware – it happened once, and it can happen again, and if 2020 taught us anything, it was never say never! We should begin to see whales here in Rocky Point this month. The local charters always know where they are, so be sure to go out for the day and see these creatures up close while you’re in town – it is definitely well worth it. If you’re looking for a super up-closeand-personal whale “petting” experience, check out my article in this month’s edition about our own local photographer, Tony Ballesteros and his Mystic Whale Tours, which takes you over to Guerrero Negro for the adventure of a lifetime. A bunch of us locals flew over with him last February and it was magical. If all goes well this month, then we’ll get the “Events” back into the paper starting with the February edition, and you might even see “Rumorsville” pop up now and again. If you would like to add your event, or have a juicy rumor, send it on over. We have lots of great things planned for 2021 to make the Rocky Point Times Newspaper better than ever, now I just have to get to work and stop goofing off. BUT goofing off in Rocky Point is SO much fun – I highly recommend it! Alicia, Mario, myself, and my Uncle Patrick Kilcullen (yes, we do make him work) would all like to thank you for your continued support and kindness and would like to wish you and yours a Feliz Año Nuevo! We hope to see you all healthy, happy, and in Rocky Point in 2021! Happy New Year!!
4
The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
rockypointtimes@yahoo.com • find us on facebook • follow us on twitter • www.rptimes.com
5
6
The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
rockypointtimes@yahoo.com • find us on facebook • follow us on twitter • www.rptimes.com
ADVERTISERINDEX ADVERTISER INDEX & PHONE PHONENUMBERS NUMBERS DIALING INSTRUCTIONS from the U.S., Canada and Mexico
ALSO SEE OUR GENERAL INFO. PAGES FOR MORE INFO.
(52) Mexico’s Country Code (638) Puerto Peñasco’s City Code Call U.S. & Canada from Mexico Dial (area code) + 7 digit number
CALLING FROM THE U.S.
Dialing a Land Line dial 011-52-638 + last 7-digits of number listed Dialing a Cellular Phone dial 011-521-638 + last 7-digits of number listed
CALLING WITHIN MEXICO
E Encantame Towers...................................... ....................(480) 445-9200 / 638-688-1010
N-O Napa Auto & RV.....................(520) 387-6962 or.......................................(520) 387-4TOW
F Family of God Christian Fellowship Medical Clinics.......(638) 383-3480 / (480) 812-5200 Five Senses Spa & Hair Clinic..(638) 112-1652 or......................(638) 108-1000 ext.210035 Francis, Jonni......................(638) 112-1197
P Pane e Vino Restaurant......(638) 105-7455 Pedro's Restaurant.............(638) 383-8889 Predador Pest Control..........(638) 383-8787 or...............(638) 113-0691 / (602) 702-4417 Puerta Privada....102-3075 / (602) 445-6430 Puerto Peñasco Realty and Services ............................................(520) 777-0018 Playa Sonora Realty............(638) 119-2211 or...............................(602) 718-5066
dial area code + 7-digit number
Mexico businesses outside of Peñasco are listed as area code + phone number in this Index.
LOCAL CELLULAR PHONES
from a land line dial 638 + 7-digit number from local cell to cell dial 638 + 7-digit number Local cellular phones start with 044+638 in this index.
CELL PHONES OUTSIDE OF PP
to dial a long distance cell from a local PP cell dial city code + 7-digit number to dial PP from a long distance MX cell dial 638 + 7-digit number
U.S. AREA CODES & VOIP LINES
U.S. numbers are listed with (brackets) around area code. Some businesses have U.S. offices and others may be using VOIP lines.
INDEX A
Ajo Chamber of Commerce...(520) 387-7742 American Legion..............(638) 388-8841 Animal Adoption Center......(638) 383-1012 ............................................(602) 412-3932 Artemiza Gandara, Playa Sonora Realty ................(638) 119-2211 / (602) 718-5066 B Baja Auto Service................(638) 383-4295 or.........................................(638) 110-7205 Barb's Dog Rescue...............(638) 114-1659 or.........................................(602) 774-1578 Brenda Sabo.......................(638) 105-3157 Burrito Express...................(638) 383-8460 C Casago......(638) 383-0700 / (888) 262-4508 Chochoy Veterinary Clinic.....(638) 383-2338 24 hr. Emergency...............(638) 380-9285 Cielito Lindo..............(638) 108-2100 Ext. 7 Colins Cantina...................(638) 382-8020 Christoper Guarino, Las Palomas Sales ...........................................(480) 257-5757 Claudia Valdivia...............(638) 113-0111 D Dr. Grijalva, D.D.S...............(638) 383-3434 Day-Spa-Cito..................(638) 156-2889
G Garufa Steakhouse...........(638) 688-0101 Georgina Ross......................(638) 388-5322 ............................................(520) 222-4750 Gila Bend Title and Registration Services..... ..........................................(928) 683-2577 H Head Out to Rocky Point Shuttle Service................................(602) 971-0166 Hotel Viña del Mar..............(638) 383-0100 or.......................................(602) 606-7768 U.S. Toll Free.....................01-800-560-2123 I-J-K Iron City Polaris...................(520) 836-1971 or.......................................(602) 272-5551 John Hibbert, Las Palomas Sales ................................(480) 257-5757 John Witt, Las Palomas Sales ..................................(480) 257-5757 John Witt Realty Ex............(623) 523-2180 Kenneth Wallace, Las Palomas Sales ..................................(480) 257-5757 Kimberly Guethle.................(480) 495-5207 or......................................(480) 993-0998 Kord's Auto Care.................(520) 387-6962 or......................................(520) 387-4TOW L Laguna Shores Resort.........(638) 383-0210 or......................................(800) 513-1426 Las Palomas Sales...............(480) 257-5757 M Mar de Cortez Beach Home & Condo Rentals ..........................................(638) 388-8747 or................(638) 112-8194 / (602) 218-7300 Margarita Mermaids...........(638) 388-5042 Mark Paliscak....................(602) 526-7478 Mexico Insurance Center....1-800-404-1088 Mirsa Tile.............................(638) 383-6770 Muebles Coloniales..........(638) 383-6670 or .........................................(638) 383-6671
Q&R Realty Executives...............(638) 116-0387 or..............(638) 113-0426 / (520) 407-6086 Richard Savino.....................(638) 380-4272 Rocky Fish............................(638) 113-9885 Rocky Point Home Builders...(638) 383-6524 or...................................(815) 553-2683 Rocky Point Realty Group.....(638) 112-1197 or.........................................(602) 647-9993 Rocky Point Times Newspaper...................... ...........................................(638) 383-6325 or.......................................(480) 463-6255 S Salerno, Rosarie...(520) 777-0018 Señorita Rita Sunset Cruise...(638) 113-3727 Servicios Medicos Veterinarios..... ...........................................(638) 383-3344 or Caborca................(637) 372-4717 Sonoran Resorts..................602-476-7511 Su Casa.............................(638) 690-1345 Sun Valley Business and Immigration Services...............................(638) 383-8891 or...............(638) 383-8896 / (520) 829-4340 T Tequila Factory.....................(638) 388-0606 Turati Optical.......................(638) 383-4645 or........................................(520) 505-6236 Twin Dolphins Real Estate and Rentals....... ............................................(638) 383-3919 or.............(602) 324-7241/(638) 384-0113 V Viña del Mar Hotel................(638) 383-0100 or.........(602) 606-7768/01-800-560-2123 Veterinary Clinic Chochoy.....(638) 383-2338 24 hr. Emergency................(638) 638-9285 Veterinary Medical Services..638-383-334 .............................................637-372-4717 W Wayne Corcoran, Laguna Shores Resales...... .............383-7263 ext. 7264 / (480) 356-1645 WhyNot Travel Store.............(520) 387-7783
EMERGENCY & Important Phone Numbers dial 911 & 066 for EMERGENCIES AIR AMBULANCE (dial within Mexico) AirEvac............................001-880-321-9522 SkyMed Air Ambulance..001-866-805-9624 AIRPORTS International.........................(638) 383-6097 CITY HALL (Municipal Building) H. Ayuntamiento de Peñasco.(638) 383-2056 or............................................(638) 383-2060 CLINICS Clinica San Jose......................(638) 383-5121 Clinica Santa Fe.....(638) 383-2447/383-4040 Clinica Santa Isabel (Maternity)....383-3645 Clinica Santa Maria.................(638) 383-2440 Cruz Roja (Red Cross).............(638) 383-2266 Desert Senita Community Health Center..... ..............................................(520) 387-5651 ELECTRIC Emergency dial...................071 Comisión Federal de Electricidad (CFE)........ ..............................................(638) 383-2684 FIRE DEPARTMENT Emergency dial....068 Departamento de Bomberos.(638) 383-2828 FISHIERIES DEPARTMENT Departamento de Pesca........(638) 383-2116 Oficina de Pesca, San Diego, CA................... ..............................................(619) 233-4324 GARBAGE/SANITATION DEPARTMENT Oomislim................................(638) 383-4909 GAS (Propane) Hidrogas................................(638) 383-5650 Z’Gas.....................................(638) 383-8284 ZaGas....................................(638) 383-8100 HOSPITALS (See Clinics also) Community...........................(638) 383-4566 IMSS (Social Security)...........(638) 383-2870 Municipal..............................(638) 383-2110 IMMIGRATION....................(638) 383-2526 MARINE RESCUE (VHF Channel 28) Port Captain..........................(638) 383-3035 Emergencies dial.462 or 627 or 767 POLICE Emergency dial......................066 Puerto Peñasco Station........(638) 383-2626 or...........................................(638) 383-1616 State Judicial Police (Policía Judicial del Estado)...(638) 383-2783 PUBLIC SECURITY DEPARTMENT Seguridad Pública Municipal.(638) 383-2626 or............................................(638) 383-1616 RAILROAD Ferrocarril..............................(638) 383-2610 RED CROSS Cruz Roja...............................(638) 383-2266 SOCIAL SECURITY (IMSS) Instituto Méxicano del Seguro Social........... ...............................................(638) 383-2677 or............................................(638) 383-2777 TELEPHONE Teléfonos de México.............(638) 383-2780 Towing.....................(011-52-638) 383-5770 U.S. (520) 232-2149 U.S. CONSULATES (in Mexico) Nogales..............................01-631-313-4820 dial from the U.S.......011-52-631-313-4820 WATER Oomapas................................(638) 383-6080 Organismo Operador.............(638) 383-6080 Piteco (water tank delivery)...(638) 383-3315
7
8
The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
M
y wife likes me to call her First Mate, even though she was the second. With that reasoning, since I was her second, maybe she should call me Second Lieutenant, but that doesn't sound as good as Cap'n Greg, so First Mate it is. One of the things Cap'n Greg likes about Rocky Point is fishing. While he isn't very good at it, he has a high level of enthusiasm, combined with low expectations, so every time the boat hits the water, it is enjoyable. The First Mate has fun, too. After launching at Pompano's, we motored past the high rises on Sandy Beach. I rounded Pelican Point, shut down the engine a mile or so out, and let the breeze carry us on a very nice drift toward Baja California. FIRST MATE: Did you bring the suntan lotion? CAP'N GREG: I thought you got it. FIRST MATE: No, I made the sandwiches. Lotion was your job. CAP'N GREG: But I remembered to ice down the beer.
FIRST MATE: Did you put in a couple Diet Cokes? CAP'N GREG: There wasn't room after I added the little bottles of champagne you like so much. FIRST MATE: You brought champagne? CAP'N GREG: Only for you, my princess. Celebrating another year of marital bliss. FIRST MATE: Our anniversary was last week. CAP'N GREG: Oops. FIRST MATE: Okay. Crack one open for me. This could be a very long day. CAP'N GREG: Shall I bait your hook with a bit of squid, my love? FIRST MATE: Please do. I don't think my stinky squid fingers would go well with the bubbly. CAP'N GREG: Anything else? FIRST MATE: Just be quiet and let me listen to the water lapping against the boat. 8 Your wish is my comman... FIRST MATE: My wish is for you to be quiet. CAP'N GREG: (SILENCE) FIRST MATE: Ahhhhhh. A FISH SWIMMING AROUND THE FIRST MATE'S BAIT: Mmmmm. Squid.
Got a ? for Cap’n Greg? Email to rockypointtimes@yahoo.com or send to RPTimes: PO Box 887, Lukeville, AZ 85341
rockypointtimes@yahoo.com • find us on facebook • follow us on twitter • www.rptimes.com
9
10
The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
been light. Light and salt water, that’s what I’m going to focus on in this new year. Let’s turn our minds to the light, the sea, the New Year ahead, and what is coming next. By Anita Kaltenbaugh
Y
ou can’t write it. Sure, as a writer I can create fictitious stories of a pandemic world, but what has transpired in 2020, is hard to imagine, who wants to recreate the year we just lived through. I’m not going to focus on the tragic number of deaths here in Mexico and the USA and all over the world. I’ll only mention the fact that the day I write this article in December, more people died in a single day in the USA, then on 9/11. It’s hard to swallow how crazy that is. Or the tenacity of the selfless frontline workers, healthcare providers and ordinary people who keep giving their heart and soul to help others day after day. Yes, it’s been a dark time in the world’s history, but there has
2021 the best is yet to come. I believe that. I, am ready for a new brighter year ahead. What can we do to seek the positive, find the joy again? I say, go to the sea my friends, and before you come, why not get the vaccine. We can stop the spreading, we know how even if we are tired of the loneliness, the restrictions and missing our family and friends. It’s going to happen, especially if we all do our part, life will be normal again. Or at least a better version of the new normal. If you’re lucky enough to live next to the Sea of Cortez, you can start today, take 30 minutes a day and start the challenge. I’m challenging myself and you to find out what makes you come alive this year and go after it with renewed energy. Realize that the dark days of the pandemic will someday soon be over. Here are my challenges sure to
make you feel alive, brighter, and more joyful. Try them for 21 days, as experts say it takes 21 days to make or break a habit. Come on... you can do anything for 21 days if you set your mind to it. What do you have to lose? Sea of Cortez 10 challenges for 2021 (sure to bring some joy &
fun). 1. If you are a seasonal, full time or even part-time resident, take out your calendar (you can receive a free printable Rocky Point calendar, by emailing Rockypointlove@ gmail.com) and start writing down every day you take a walk by the sea. It doesn’t matter how long you walk just walk every day for 21 days. If walking isn’t in your wheelhouse, take 30 minutes a day to relax, and sit by the sea. Breathe in the sea. Try this for 21 days and see if this doesn’t make you more joyful. 2. Take a boat ride, kayak, SUP board and get on the gorgeous Sea of Cortez. Once out there on the shimmering
rockypointtimes@yahoo.com • find us on facebook • follow us on twitter • www.rptimes.com
water, take the imaginary rocks off your shoulders, back or stress bottled up deep inside and hurl them into the sea. Throw it all in, the sea will take it and swirl it far from the present moment. Stress disappears in waves and salt water. 3. Take a drive around the Pinacate Biosphere. Plan on scheduling a 3-5-hour excursion. Pack a picnic, pick out some good music and take a mini road trip. The fresh air, uncrowded roads and scenic beauty will make you come alive. The Pinacate is a UNESCO World Heritage site worth visiting and accessible right here. 4. Take time to watch the sea life - I count my blessings every day that I spot dolphins off our balcony on a weekly basis. Go and sit on the sand and search for the diving birds, the flipping dolphins and coming soon the majestic whales. I find them many times during CON'T ON PAGE 18
11
12
The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
Feliz Año Nuevo? By The Old Gringo
N
ew to Peñasco? Frequent visitor? P a r t - t i m e resident? Live here full time? Whatever your designation, I think we can all agree that Puerto Peñasco is a special place. It always has been. It’s not the physical things like buildings, condo towers, etc. that make it special, either. It could be the location...after all sun sand and sea are alluring for most folks. It could be the climate...who doesn’t like warm and dry (most of the year, anyway). It could be a lot of things, or all of them, but in my humble opinion the people of Peñasco are the glue that binds it all together. The special blend of traditional Mexican culture with a large dose of norteño sensibilities, and our proximity to the U.S. border, make our town a very special place. Even with the advent of thousands of condo room and hotels along Sandy Beach over the past twenty-five years or so, our town has not become what so many other Mexican tourist towns have. To be sure, the town has changed and grown, and not always in good a good way, but it still retains the soul of the Peñasco of forty years ago. I ascribe that to the people. You would be hard pressed to find kinder, happier and a more generous people anywhere than the folks who populate our town, and that brings me to the
point of this article. Caveat: If you have thin skin, or are easily offended, stop reading now. I have been asked, by more than a few people, to put into words a particular pet peeve of many who live in Puerto Peñasco; the etiquette of visiting a foreign country. Many, certainly not all, who visit our town from the north come here with what can best be described as the “ugly American” attitude, and it is not becoming...at all. The idea that local laws and customs need to bend to the way things are done “back home” seems to be the jist of it. For many visitors (I could bracket that by narrowing down the age group, but you know of whom I speak), it seems that common courtesy and politeness are left at Lukeville, and that local laws and customs are nothing more than footnotes to be bent to the whims and desires of the visitors. Incidents of rude and downright hostile behavior by visitors toward locals are ubiquitous and anyone who has been here for any length of time has seen it. While no one begrudges visitors from ‘letting their hair down’ when vacationing in our beautiful town, there is no excuse for the types of rude and crude behavior I and many others have observed. This behavior extends also to obeying local laws as regards quads on roadways and on beaches. Simply put, just because you want to ride
your vehicle on a beach does not mean you can. Incidents of people flouting the laws in this way are many and the consequences are more far reaching than many realize. A case in point; many local residents have reached a detente with a large resort east of town. Although quads on the beach are a no-no, private road access is acceptable for locals to drive their machines through the resort roads to fish one of the estuaries. As long as they are respectful when driving through resort and golf course grounds, the resort owners turn a blind eye toward this infraction. Enter ‘renters’ and other beach folk who think that the rules do not apply to them. Quads and rails are being driven on the beaches where they are specifically prohibited. While this is annoying to the other residents and is clearly against the laws, these ‘me, me, me’ folks don’t care. The resort, however, has a different view. New security guards now prevent anyone (local fishermen as well as residents who utilize the restaurants)
from driving any off-road vehicles on their property. So, what was a wink and a nod agreement that benefited locals and the resort, has now become a stalemate between them. All because some folks just want to do what they want to do and everyone else be damned. It is this type of thinking that mars our wonderful community. We want tourists! After all a tourist haven is what we have morphed into. However, we do not want, or need, rude, crude and disrespectful visitors who flout the local laws and treat people, and our community, like their own personal fiefdom. A word to the wise; please come to Puerto Peñasco! Visit our fine restaurants, shop, recreate, but do so respectfully. You are in a foreign country so act according to their rules and leave your attitude behind. Treat the people, the town and our amenities with the respect they deserve, and we will all benefit. p.s.- This column is written to address an extant issue and not for debate or comment. If you are offended by what has been written, ask yourself why.
rockypointtimes@yahoo.com • find us on facebook • follow us on twitter • www.rptimes.com
13
14
The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
Residents Focus on Positives during Crisis
By Joseph Sanchez President, Rocky Point Home Builders
2
021 has arrived and we enter the new year full of hope and optimism. During negative situations like 2020, humans tend to dwell on the negative and forget to focus on the positives putting that much needed optimism on the back burner. During every crisis there are many positive human-interest stories that occur but will never get noticed because the attention is focused on the negative, so let’s revisit those feel-good moments. Community Outreach on Display
As you recall it was a scary and nervous time for our little fishing village who has limited medical resources. For a time, we thought it was the end for this town and the hospital would be overloaded with the sick and dead, but a positive aspect emerged in the form of helping hands from residents exemplifying the true meaning of community. This community came together
and instituted a tremendous effort to help the underprivileged families and the medical sector. Donations included over 4000 pantry packages to poor families, over 1 ton of fresh fish, 20,000 facemasks to the health center, hundreds of cakes and pastries, over 10 tons of potatoes, 1000 of liters of disinfectant gel, 20 gallons of bleach and 5 respirators and an isolation chamber. This response was not only impressive but says a lot about the culture of Puerto Peñasco where human kindness and compassion are on the minds of all even during the darkest hours. Another notable positive story is the owner of Mickey’s Place, Chef Mickey, who provided free meals in the lower parts of the barrio, where people couldn’t afford a meal during this crisis, all while his business was closed. Chef Mickey’s business was closed, and everybody was suffering, but he said if we all come together, we can help people out. He said it provided him peace of mind at night when you are enjoying a hot meal with your family that you can say you helped others enjoy a hot meal also that day. Tourism and Investment Opportunities Rebound
Before the Covid-19 virus started, 2019 was a major year of growth and expansion for Puerto Peñasco more than in any other year since 2008. Housing starts
were up dramatically over the year previous which is a good indicator of the strength of the local economy and shows that investment dollars were flowing into the town through the purchasing an existing home, land/lots and/or building new homes and then Covid hit and it came to a screeching halt….albeit Temporarily. The big question on everybody’s mind is will the shutdown of Peñasco have a lasting negative effect on business, real estate, tourism etc. That question was put to the test on June 16th as thousands of tourists visited Puerto Peñasco for the first time since the shutdown as the city opened its doors to tourists for the inaugural re-opening launch. Longs lines of cars were seen at the sanitation checkpoint just outside the entrance of the city as tourist’s road-tripped down by the thousands to Puerto Peñasco. It was a great indication that business will resume back to normal and the impact on business was only temporary or was it? Then came Labor Day weekend and once again it brought the much-needed sights
and sounds of people enjoying themselves and living life again while giving the city and its shuttered local businesses the much-needed revenue boost due to the Covid-19 shutdown proving that the worse was behind us and life goes on. Now that we are almost back to normal the good news is there are no shortages of investment opportunities available in the real estate and tourism market. From large-scale land development to purchasing a couple lots and building some income properties, there is no better place to be at this moment in time that Puerto Peñasco. Happy New Year and as we go through 2021, lets focus on the positive for the sake of our peace of mind and God Bless your Family.
About the author: Joseph Sanchez is president of Rocky Point Home Builders a design/build contractor specializing in custom home design, construction and engineered renovations. He resides here in Puerto Peñasco with his wife and two children and is originally from Chicago. For more information email him at sales@rockypointhomebuilders.com
rockypointtimes@yahoo.com • find us on facebook • follow us on twitter • www.rptimes.com
15
16
The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
W
Tia Katy’s Corner January 2021
ow, what a year 2020 has been! As you can imagine, the pandemic has presented our teams on both sides of the border with tremendous new challenges as we work to find ways to safely bring critically needed resources and support to local students in crisis. Despite these challenges, we are more committed than ever to our mission of providing young people in Rocky Point with a path out of poverty through education. I am incredibly proud of our AIMPeñasco team and their commitment to do ‘whatever it takes’ to provide students with the resources they need to stay in school during this pandemic. Until in-person classes resume, and homework clubs can reopen, our local team is working tirelessly to bring daily resources and support to hundreds of students throughout the community. In addition to laptops, WIFI and educational materials, they are also bringing daily meals to students who might otherwise go hungry. Thanks to support from so many of you, despite the unprecedented challenges we have faced this year, together
Members of the local team we support bringing daily meals, technology and other resources to students
we have accomplished so much. Here are just a few of my favorite highlights from this last year: • During the fall semester, more than 300 elementary school students were receiving daily academic support and resources at one of three homework clubs operated by our local AIM team. Since the pandemic forced a transition to remote learning, five new mobile homework clubs have been established to provide a record number of students with daily meals and critical academic resources not available in their homes. • The AIM team opened its first ever technology lab to provide
middle and high school students with consistent access to the internet, computers and printers -resources essential for academic success at these grade levels And my favorite highlight from this past year… • We have a record 42 high school graduates from our program now attending college and we have our first ever college graduate! None of this would be possible without the support of so many generous donors and I am humbled and honored by the growing support of my mission to provide young people in Rocky Point with a path out of poverty through education. MAKE A GIFT, CHANGE A LIFE. GET YOUR MONEY BACK!
No access to remote learning means ho hoe for a better future for so many local students
If you are an Arizona Taxpayer, I am excited to share a unique opportunity we have for you to direct some of your state taxes to support at-risk students in Rocky Point and Arizona. You can take
advantage of this opportunity any time before April 15th through these 3 simple steps: 1. Go to stepsoflove.org/taxcredit/ and donate up to $800 (married) or $400 (single). Write Steps of Love in the memo box and select ‘none’ for EC70 Referring Member. 2. Use form 321 when you file your taxes and list 20589 in the QCO code. 3. Receive this tax credit either in a reduction in state taxes or an increase in your refund for the exact amount you donated. This is a win-win for atrisk students on both sides of the border! If you are not an AZ taxpayer, please share this opportunity with those you know who are! On behalf of all of us at Steps of Love, our local team in Rocky Point and, especially, the amazing, resilient students we have the honor of serving, we thank you for your generosity. HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!
rockypointtimes@yahoo.com • find us on facebook • follow us on twitter • www.rptimes.com
17
18
The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
CON'T FROM PAGE 10
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
sunset, jumping in the sun strip on the sea. Take a drive out to the Oyster Farm past Las Conchas. The beauty of the estuaries will engulf you as you breathe in clean air and incredible landscapes of sand and sea. Take a walk around the Malecon, put your mask on, walk from one end to the other, energize yourself as you walk by the sea. Come down to Rocky Point and shop local. Mermaid Market continues to offer an awesome outdoor market with creations from local artists in a safe environment. 1st and 3rd Saturday of every month until April. Shop local-, try stopping by a Fruteria to buy some fresh produce, grab some Pollo Lucas chicken to take home or simply shop at a local Mercado. Help spread a prosperous new year economy. Visit a shop or restaurant you’ve never tried. Book a week in Puerto Penasco for the upcoming months. If you are in driving distance this is a great way to use vacation days inexpensively, no flights
involved and great rental prices. A weekend visit is just too short, book a week and try my challenge. Plus, added health benefit, you get the salt water at your disposal. 10. Think about adopting an animal. If you rescue a dog from Barb’s Dog Rescue, the walking challenges will come easy. Statistics show those who have a pet live healthier lives, they will become a part of your life that you will not regret. Go to Barb’s Dog Rescue Facebook page for more information. Count your blessings, as hard as it’s been in 2020, you are here. You’re alive, not a statistic. Try writing down one thing your thankful for every day. This will bring you joy and hope for this new year. And, for those we’ve lost last year, celebrate their lives by creating a more positive new year.
“The Cure for anything SALT WATER, SWEAT, TEARS OR the SEA.” I’LL TAKE THE SEA.
Anita Kaltenbaugh is the author of the book “Travel Secrets- Insider guide to planning, affording and taking more vacations” available on Amazon and author of debut suspense novel a Deep Thing by A.K. Smith. Check out her blog at www.wordstravelfilm.com/blog
rockypointtimes@yahoo.com • find us on facebook • follow us on twitter • www.rptimes.com
19
20
The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
Decorative railing being fabricated for St. Joseph’s Church in La Cholla they repair metal items and create iron railings and other items for businesses and homeowners,” said St. Joseph’s sexton Bob Keller. The new railings will be placed adjacent to the ramps in the front of the church and along the southeast walkway to the sacristy By Cholla Charli and bathroom. “The railing will make the walkway safer and will enhance the holla Bay Powder Coating is again ‘curb appeal’ at the church,” Keller helping St. Joseph’s/San said. “We were able to special José Catholic Church ordered the powder coating to in La Cholla where bilingual Mass match the color of the new roof and trim paint. is offered every Sunday at 8 a.m. “We are incredibly grateful to Kyle and Tina Cramer and their crew for their generous support, and to all the locals and visitors who contribute to our building fund. Our little chapel is part of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, but we are selfsupporting. We rely on locals and visitors to make these enhancements possible and to, Julio Castro at Cholla Bay Powder Coating sands a weld on the first section of the new railing for St. Joseph’s Catholic Church literally, keep the near Cholla Bay. lights on,” Keller added. Previously, the company The Power Coating business powder coated the church bells, is just a couple blocks from the which were beginning to rust, and church, the first right-hand turn more recently, they powder coated when you enter the community. the metal grates that protect the Learn more about their services front windows in the church. online at chollabaypowdercoating. Now they are fabricating and will powder coat a functional com. To reach St. Joseph’s, take the and decorative railing along the walkways and back steps of the road past the Sandy Beach Resorts and the sand road out past Wrecked chapel. “Not everyone knows that at the Reef and Mare Blu. As the Cholla Bay Powder Coating also road winds into Cholla, the church has a complete welding shop where is on the right and well-marked.
C
For information about services and the mission church, contact Keller by e-mail at: bob@ keller.net, by phone at 928-706-6928 or by mail at P.O. Box 297, Lukeville, AZ 85341.
rockypointtimes@yahoo.com • find us on facebook • follow us on twitter • www.rptimes.com
21
22
The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
rockypointtimes@yahoo.com • find us on facebook • follow us on twitter • www.rptimes.com
TRAVELINFORMATION TRAVEL INFORMATION NEW COVID-19 PROTOCOLS BRODER CROSSING HOURS 6AM-8PM SONOYTA & LUKEVILLE DO NOT STOP IN SONOYTA, DRIVE STRAIGHT THRU TO ROCKY POINT DO NOT SPEED IN SONOYTA - 40 KMH & WEAR YOUR MASK
TOURIST ASSISTANCE INFORMATION YOU NEED TO REMEMBER If you dispute any incident or infraction, need help or have questions, please go to the Police Station, located north of town. Pay any and all fines ONLY at the station. IF YOU ARE PULLED OVER ALWAYS: • Write down the Name of the Officer • And the Number on the back of the vehicle that pulled you over • Record the location you were pulled over and the exact time
POLICE & EMERGENCIES
DIAL...911 or 066 Nationwide: from ANY PHONE. TelCel users can also dial *112 to go directly to the Peñasco Police Station
. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
REPORT ANY ATTEMPT OF BRIBES BY CALLING 388-0423
YOU MUST FILE AN OFFICIAL COMPLAINT!
If you feel you have been wronged by an officer(s), you MUST make an official complaint so that the police department can take action. If they have no record of the incident, then they have no proof. Telling your friends and complaining to others will not get the problem solved - it only creates more problems and allows the officer to go on “doing business as usual”. File a complaint and save others the same grief you have gone through and make our city a better place.
DO NOT PAY OR OFFER TO PAY ANY OFFICER DIRECTLY WHEN PULLED OVER.
All fines are to be paid at the main police station
PASSPORTS ARE REQUIRED Passports are required for re-entry into the U.S. when travelling by vehicle into Mexico. You may also present a Passport Card, Enhanced Driver’s License, SENTRI or NEXXUS Cards when leaving Mexico. Children under the age of 16 need to present their Birth Certificate. This applies to any port of entry when driving into Mexico.
ABOUT PUERTO PEÑASCO Puerto Peñasco, also known as Rocky Point, is located in the State of Sonora on the Sea of Cortez. It is approz. 66 miles from the U.S. border at Lukeville, AZ and the Mexican border at Sonoyta, MX. Rocky Point is located within the “Free Zone”, so no vehicle permits are required for you to visit, but you will need your Passport or other ID (see above) to re-enter the United States. Rocky Point offers a variety of land and sea activities for every age and is very family oriented. It also offers a variety of dining and lodging choices as well as beach camping and RV Parks. Rocky Point is known for its warm weather, beautiful sunsets and gorgeous beaches. Relax and enjoy a day on the beach or at one of our many spas. Head out for a day of shopping to find everything from one-of-a-kind fine art to curious. Plan a day of golf on some of the most beautiful and challenging courses around. And when the sun has set, head out for some local night time entertainment.
DRIVING TO ROCKY POINT
take you all the way to the U.S./Mexico border at Lukeville, AZ and Sonoyta, MX. The Maricopa Hwy. will lead you right into Gila Bend, exit left once you come to the stop sign and follow the above directions.
COMING FROM TUCSON You will take the old Ajo Hwy. (Hwy. 86), which will lead you through Sells and end at Why, AZ. At the stop sign take a left onto Hwy. 85 (at Why) and head to the border (see above). Gas stations, restrooms, ATM’s & convenience stores are located in Gila Bend, Ajo, Why and Lukeville. AZ before reaching the border.
Take either I-10 (west side) or the Maricopa Hwy. (east side). Take the Gila Bend/Mexico exit off of I-10 and head toward Gila Bend. Once you pass through Gila Bend you will exit onto Hwy. 85 (south) toward Ajo/Mexico. Hwy. 85 will
All parties are taken to the police station where you and your vehicle may be detained until restitution is made. If a minor is involved in an accident, the parents are responsible for the child. Parents must pay fines and/or restitution. Minors are usually detained but not jailed in non-death accidents or traffic violations. You need to file a police report and phone your Mexican insurance adjustor immediately in the event of an accident. You (most likely) will be held in jail if you are in an accident in which a death occurs.
AIRLINE SERVICE & AIRPORTS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Mar de Cortes International Airport (011-52-638) 383-6097 www.aeropuertomardecortes.com Airport Administrator: Alonso Dominguez Ruiz Libramiento Carretera Sonoyta-Caborca 71 Ejido Miramar, Colonia Miramar
PERSONAL AIRCRAFT To fly your own plane you must have your: pilots license, medical certificate, registration, air worthiness certificate, and Mexican airplane insurance. GENERAL AIRPORT INFORMATION Airport ICAO ID: MMPE Location: 17 miles East of downtown Elevation: 88 ft. Mar de Cortes Radio Tower Frequency: 118.85 Website contains complete info. on Airport loanding, parking other fees Type of Services: RS: Int’l regular flights RFF Category: 7 Airport Coordinates: 31° 21’ 6.836” LN113° 18’ 19.44” LW Runway Center Runway Designation: 18-36 Runway 18 THR Elev.: 84 ft./Runway 36 Elev.: 88 ft. Airport Reference Number: 4D Runway Lengths: 8,100 ft. Airport Size: 1,482.6 Acres
CONSULATES MEXICAN CONSULATES Tucson: 3915 E Broadway Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85711 (520) 882-5595 • Mon.-Fri. 8 AM - 2 PM Phoenix: P 320 E McDowell Rd Ste 320 Phoenix, AZ 85004 • (602) 242-7398 Nogales: 480 Grand Ave., 89562 • (520) 287-3175 Douglas: 541 10th St., 85607 • (520) 364-3107 U.S. CONSULATES Nogales, Mexico from Mexico (01-631) 311-8150 Fax: (01-631) 313-4652 from the U.S. (011-52-631) 311-8150 Fax: (011-52-631) 313-4652 http://travel.state.gov Email: NogalesASC@state.gov What the Consulate CAN DO if you are arrested in Mexico • Visit you in jail after your arrest • Provide you a list of local attorneys • Inform you of judicial procedures • Notify family and friends • Relay requests for aid or monetary support • Protest abuse/mistreatment to authorities What the Consulate CANNOT DO if you are arrested in Mexico • Demand your immediate release • Get you out of jail or out of the country • Pay legal fees w/U.S. Government money • Pay fines w/U.S. Government money
CONTRALORIA SONOYTA Dear traveler, when crossing the border of Sonoyta, Sonora you suffer any abuse by any police authority, make sure to file a Complaint. The Mayor’s office is here to help with any problem you may have, make sure to contact us to: (651) 512-1172 or ( 651) 100-9530 or email contraloriasocialsonoyta@hotmail.com We are available 24 /7, every day of the week.
CROSSING THE BORDER
COMING FROM CALIFORNIA
U.S. AIRPORTS (CLOSEST)
COVID CROSSING HOURS 6AM to 8PM Mexico & the U.S. Sonoyta/Lukeville
The Crossing at San Luis (south of Yuma, AZ) is the fastest and easiest point to cross. Head East on I-8 and take Hwy. 95 S towards Yuma. You will cross at San Luis Rio Colorado. Continue straight for a few blocks, turn left at the signal on to Ave. Obregon. That is the main road through San Luis. You will go all the way through town and see a sign for Puerto Peñasco and El Golfo de Santa Clara off to your right. Exit right at the bridge and follow the signs to Puerto Peñasco. Theres is a toll booth you will go through (currently $110 pesos). The road is smooth and free of potholes and has plenty of places to pass and pull over. Just outside of El Golfo, you will turn left onto the Coastal Highway (003) and follow that all the way to Rocky Point. Signs are clearly marked. Look on our facebook page for pictures of the signs, roadway, stops and scenery.
Phoenix, Tucson & Nogales, AZ
CLOSED MIDNIGHT - 6:00 AM
ENTERING MEXICO Hwy. 8 from the Lukeville border to Rocky Point is a good 2-lane road with plenty of emergency parking and places to pass. It is an open range (watch out for wildlife) and is patrolled by the highway police as well as the Green Angels (roadside assistance). Please see Crossing the Border in this section for more info.
YOU MUST HAVE MEXICAN VEHICLE INSURANCE...IT’S THE LAW A minimum of liability is required. COMING FROM PHOENIX
ACCIDENTS CON’T
ACCIDENTS If you are involved in a (nondeath) accident in Mexico, you are considered at fault until proven otherwise.
BUS STATIONS (MEXICO) ABC (Auto Transportes de la Baja California) Located on Constitucion, just N of the signal at Blvd. Benito Juarez Albatros - Phone: 388-0888 E side of Benito Juarez, N of the Stadium Norte de Sonora - Phone: 383-3640 E side of Blvd. Benito Juarez, S of No. Releccion (Calle 26) and N of Pemex
FOR U.S. - SEE SHUTTLE SERVICES
CAR RENTALS Some major rental companies do permit their vehicles to be driven into Mexico. Call their AZ offices directly instead of their national offices. You may be required to carry their Mexican insurance. Mexico law requires that you must carry a minimum of liability insurance. Arizona (Phoenix Area) Enterprise, Advantage, Dollar, Saban’s Puerto Peñasco (from the U.S. dial 011-52-638) Alamo Rent A Car 102-0277 Bufalo 388-9999 M.G. Rentals 383-3814 Pro Rent-A-Car 388-5823 Rio Car Rental 383-8181 The Point Rent-A-Car 388-5823
Arizona (Lukeville) Border Mexico (Sonoyta) Border As soon as you pass the chainlink fence, you are entering into Mexico. There are two lanes going into Mexico. Wait for the vehicle ahead of you to pass all the way through the lane before proceeding. VEHICLE INSPECTION There are two means of inspection: 1) Fiscal Traffic Light Nothing to declare/items under allowed limit
2) Integral Inspection
Voluntary declaration/items over allowed limit
As you cross the Mexican Border there are two narrow lanes with a (traffic) light at the end of the lane. As you proceed ahead, the light will flash RED (alto - stop) or GREEN (pase - go). 1) FISCAL TRAFFIC LIGHT STOP (alto) - RED LIGHT If the light turns red you will pull off to the left where an officer will ask you some questions such as where you are going, how long you are staying, and what you are bringing into Mexico. The officer will most likely look through your vehicle and belongings. Do not leave your vehicle unattended and do accompany the officer during his search. If you incur any problems be sure to get the name and badge number of the officer. GO (pase) - GREEN LIGHT If you get the green light you can pass through without any inspection. Please note that you still may be pulled over and inspected even if you get the green light. 2) INTEGRAL INSPECTION This is the voluntary request for the examination of your articles, if you have items to declare which exceed your allowed
23
TRAVELINFORMATION TRAVEL INFORMATION limits. Before you enter the lanes to cross into Mexico, you will pull off to your left and park in the assigned spaces against the chainlink fence. You will need to go to the small building, which sits in the middle of the two lanes, and tell the officer what items you have to declare and the value of each item. When you are finished filling out the form, the import tax (impuestos) will be assessed and you will be handed two forms to take to the bank and pay. (The bank is at the side of the brick building, past the fountain.) If it is after hours, you will pay your impuestos to the agent who will stamp your form and issue you a receipt. An agent may want to come and inspect your load. The taxes you pay are in pesos and you can now pay with a credit card (they will accept dollars) and are to be paid directly to the bank and you will be issued a receipt. You will need that receipt to cross the border. (If you are pulled over by Aduana after leaving the border, you will need the receipt as proof of payment.) After you have paid your taxes, you will need to cross the border and go through the Fiscal Traffic Light. If you get the red light you will need to pull over and show your receipt to the officer. If you come through the fiscal traffic light, and merchandise is found, which was not declared, you could have to pay a fine of 4x the commercial value of the articles plus your vehicle and belongings may be seized. If you choose the Integral Inspection the fine will be 1½x the value. In both cases you forfeit the right to the tax exemption. Your vehicle and personal belongings can be confiscated if you do not stop and declare merchandise over your limit allowed by Mexican Law.
DUTY FREE ITEMS You are allowed $300 USD tax free in new merchandise per person. Merchandise must be in same vehicle as person(s) declaring. The following is a list of items which you may bring into Mexico tax free. • Items for personal use such as clothing, shoes and toiletries according to the length of your stay. • 1 photographic or motion video camera, including a power source and rolls of film or video cassettes. (No professional equipment.) • Books and magazines. • 1 used sports article or piece of equipment for individual use. • 1 carton of cigarrettes. • 3 liters of alcohol & beer, 6 liters of wine. You may import more by paying the corresponding tax. • Medicine for personal use (with your prescription). • Suitcases to transport your items.
If you are legally a resident of another country, in addition to the items listed, you may also bring the following items: • Binoculars • Camping equipment • Portable television, radio and 20 cds • Laptop computer • 5 used toys if the passenger is a child • Fishing tackle • Pair of skis • 2 tennis rackets • A non-motorized boat up to 5½ meters in length or a surfboard with or without a sail
If you are traveling by a camper, trailer, motorhome you may also bring in: • VCR • Bicycle with or without a motor • Household linens • Kitchen utensils • Livingroom & bedroom furniture You may import additional merchandise valued up to $1,000 per vehicle by paying the corresponding tax without the intervention of a customs broker. Over $1,000 USD requires a broker, which are located just across the border.
FIREARMS & DRUGS Firearms, illegal drugs and ammunition are NOT allowed into Mexico. Hunters may bring their firearm with the proper paperwork/ clearance. Possession carries a pentalty of 5 to 30 years.
IMPORTING You are allowed to bring in $300 USD per person worth of new merchandise - this does not include your personal items such as clothing, toiletries, etc. If you have new merchandise in excess of $300 per person you will need to declare your items and pay the impuestos (taxes) before crossing into Mexico. You may import up to $1,000 USD in new merchandise per vehicle without the assistance of a Customs Broker. To declare items you are bringing into Mexico, turn left as you cross the border, just beyond the chainlink fence. Park in the designated spot and go into the Aduana Building in the middle of the two lanes. See Crossing the Border for more information on declaring merchandise. If your merchandise totals more than $3,000 USD per vehicle, you will need the assistance of a customs broker. Customs brokers are located on the Mexican side of the border. Park on the U.S. side and walk across to one of their offices. Customs Brokers in Sonoyta, Mex. Agencia Ibarrola (011-52-651) 512-1878 Aserco Imp. (011-52-651) 512-0009 MultiServicios Sinaloa (011-52-651) 512-1593 or 1599
INSURANCE Medical Insurance Family or personal trip/ vacation medical insurance can be purchased by some providers in the U.S. Check your existing policy to see what coverage is offered while visiting Mexico. Most clinics in Rocky Point do not accept U.S. insurance as payment. Vehicle Insurance Mexican Law states that you MUST HAVE MEXICAN INSURANCE while driving in Mexico. A minimum of liability is required though full coverage is recommended. You can insure your driver’s license if driving a buggy, quad, rail, etc., but the vehicle cannot be insured for theft. If your vehicle is stolen, you must immediately file a local, federal (state) and U.S. police report. The insurance companies usually pay low blue book and extras such as rims, tires, stereo, etc. are not covered. Most U.S. policies ARE NOT recognized in Mexico. You may purchase insurance over the internet, phone, mail or stop at a number of places on your way to Rocky Point. Look in this issue for Mexican Insurance.
MILEAGE FROM ROCKY POINT TO Agua Prieta, Mexico......345 miles Ajo, Arizona......................................90 miles Caborca, Mexico.............................154 miles Ciudad Obregon, Mexico...............491 miles Guaymas, Mexico...........................408 miles Hermosillo, Mexico........................321 miles
Kino Bay, Mexico............................393 miles Las Vegas, Nevada..........................514 miles Los Angeles, California...................540 miles Lukeville, Arizona..............................66 miles Nogales, Mexico.............................287 miles Phoenix, Arizona............................217 miles San Carlos, Mexico.........................407 miles San Diego, California......................366 miles Santa Ana, Mexico.........................217 miles Sonoyta, Mexico..............................62 miles Tucson, Arizona..............................208 miles Yuma, Arizona................................260 miles Coastal Highway 003
This highway will run from Baja, California through Rocky Point to San Carlos. It is completed from El Golfo de Santa Clara to Rocky Point and from El Desemboque to Puerto Libertdad. Southern California visitors will be able to cut their driving time by using this beautiful, safe new highway! It is a nice, wide, 2-lane highway with rest stops, plenty of passing and wide shoulders for emergencies. See Driving to Puerto Peñasco at the beginning of this section.
PETS Only domestic animals (dogs & cats) are permitted into Mexico. You need to carry a copy of your pet’s current rabies vaccination certificate as you may be asked for it as you cross the border. Mexico has many stray animals roaming the streets so please keep an eye on your pet. Many pets are lost in Rocky Point each year due to unfamiliar surroundings and firework noise. If your animal is lost while visiting Rocky Point, we have found the best thing to do is scour the area where he/she was last seen. You can also pass out flyers to taxi drivers and water truck delivery men and post them all over town. Putting an announcement on the local AM and FM radio stations are also a good idea. Be sure you have a collar and tag on your animal as well as a current photo. Contrary to popular belief, your pet is not welcome at most establishments, especially where food is served. Please check with the staff before bringing your pet inside as the business can be fined for health violations.
RE-ENTERING THE UNITED STATES COVID-19 HOURS 6AM-8PM CLOSED 8PM to 6AM Have your I.D. or Passport ready Bureau of Customs and Border Protection PO Box C, Lukeville, AZ 85341 (520) 387-5671, Fax: (520) 387-5309 Passports
On June 1st, 2009, U.S. Citizens reentering the United States (via vehicle) from Mexico will be required to show their Passport, Passport Card, Enhanced Driver’s License, NEXXUS or SENTRI card. Everyone in the vehicle needs to provide one of the above forms if identificaton. Parents bringing their babies, who have not received their official birth certificate, may bring the temporary one issued by the hospital. Children 16 and under will be required to show a copy of their birth certificate. Wait Times Traffic is greatly increased during holiday and busy weekends. Please plan your trip accordingly. A good idea is to arrive a day early, and stay a day later. You can check border wait times on the internet at http://apps.cbp.gov/bwt Permitted Items 100 cigars, 200 cigarettes 1 liter (39.8 fl. oz.) of alcohol, per person, 21 yrs. or older. You are NOT permitted, at the Lukeville Port of Entry, to pay duty and import additional alcohol. This is a Pima County law, not an Arizona or U.S. state law, so check with the individual border crossing. Fruits and Vegetables: bananas, blackberries, cactus fruits, dates, dewberries, grapes, lychees, melons, papayas, pineapples, and strawberries. (Most citrus such as oranges and grapefruit are NOT permitted.) Vegetables are permitted, except for those on the prohibited list. Okra, however, is subject to certain restrictions. Nuts: acorns, almonds, cocoa beans, chestnuts, coconuts (without husks or milk), peanuts, pecans, pinons (pinenuts), tamarind beans, walnuts and waternuts. Seafood: 50 lbs. of fish or shrimp per vehicle. Avoid customs penalties by declaring all articles acquired in Mexico, and in your possession at the time of your reentry into the United States. If in doubt whether an article should be declared, always declare it first to the Customs Officer on duty. If you understate the value of an article you declare, you may have to pay a penalty in addition to the payment of duty. If you fail to declare an article, acquired in Mexico, not only is the item subject to seizure, but you will be liable for a personal penalty. You are entitled to a $800 exemption in a 30 day period. Articles totaling $800 may be entered free of duty, subject to limitations on liquor, cigarettes & cigars. Prohibited Items Agricultural items are prohibited if they can carry plant pests or animal diseases. Cuban Cigars Medicine requires a prescription, carry a copy of your U.S. prescription with you. Fruits and Vegetables: sugarcane, potatoes, Irish potatoes, sweet potatoes, and yams. (Exceptions: Cooked potatoes and avocados without seeds, except in California.) Plants, Seeds and Soil: plants and seeds require special permits. Soil and some plants are prohibited. Check in advance with agricultural inspectors. (Exception: some dried plant parts for medicinal purposes are permitted.) Meat and Game: pork, raw and cooked, including sausages, cold cuts, skins, and pork tacos is prohibited. (Exceptions: shelf-stable, canned pork and hardcooked pork skins (cracklings) are permitted.) Poultry: raw meat from both domesticated and game fowl is prohibited. (Exception: thoroughly cooked poultry is permitted.) Eggs: prohibited. (Exceptions: boiled and cooked eggs are permitted.) Game: check with agricultural inspectors in advance.
Live Birds: wild and domesticated birds, including poultry are prohibited. To import personally owned pet birds, contact agricultural inspectors in advance. Straw: generally prohibited. This includes wheat straw, seeds, animal feed, and all articles made from this material. In addition to the excepted items listed above, many agricultural items are permitted if they pass inspection to be sure they are free of pests, soil and sand.
SHUTTLE SERVICES Daily shuttle service is available from the Phoenix and Tucson areas to Rocky Point and cities in-between. Please contact the companies directly for their schedules and rates. If you need door to door service, clarify that they offer that service and if you need to be picked up at the airport make sure that the shuttle has a permit to pick up passengers at the airport. Head Out to Rocky Point Phone (602) 971-0166 www.headouttorockypoint.com Nena’s Transportation 388-7089 or (602) 442-6802 Located on Benito Juarez, N of the Baseball Stadium by Coffee Point Transportes Superior 383-3640 Calle Lazaro Cardenas, Esq. Benito Juarez Bus Station TNS/Estrella Blanca Sonoyta: Across the border on the west side of the street. 01-651-512-3374 At the Bus Station: 01-651-512-0784 Phoenix: 29th & VanBuren: 602-4559522
SPEED LIMITS SPEED LIMITS FOR PUERTO PEÑASCO STREETS 10 KPH / 6 MPH in School Zones 30 KPH / 18 MPH on City Streets 60 KPH / 37 MPH on any Blvd., unless posted ortherwise 60 KPH / 37 MPH on the Resort Rd, from Playa Bonita to Cholla Bay
TRAVEL BEYOND THE FREE ZONE Puerto Peñasco is located in the Free Zone, where you do not need vehicle/tourist visas to visit. If you plan to travel beyond the Free Zone you will need the following: FMT (personal tourist visa) and your vehicle permit if you plan to drive. Personal Visa (FMT) Available at the I m m i g rat i o n Office in Sonoyta, on your right as you cross the border. They are open from 8:00 AM until Midnight. You will need to bring your birth certificate and/or valid driver’s license. You can either park on the U.S. side and walk across or you can go through the border and park. You will need to show your ID and fill out the necessary paperwork (it is in English and Spanish). Once you have filled out the paperwork you will take it over to Banca Serfin, pay approx. $558 pesos (per person) and return to the office to give them a copy.
At this time you cannot obtain your FMT in Peñasco, but the Immigration office can stamp your FM3 or FM2 for travel beyond the free zone. If you are flying into the airport you can obtain your FMT when you arrive at the Peñasco airport. By law, anyone who stays in Mexico for more than 72 hours, is required to have an FMT, whether you stay within the Free Zone or not. Automobile Visa The Free Zone covers most of Sonora, but if you plan to drive past Guaymas, Sonora, you will need to obtain a permit for your vehicle. This can be done in San Emeterio, about 20 miles south of Sonoyta on Hwy 2 or at the check point outside of Guaymas. The cost for this permit is approx. $59.16 dlls. You cannot get a permit in Rocky Point. You will need the original and 3 copies of: • Registration, Title and the valid driver’s license of the vehicle owner • Credit card in the vehicle owner’s name • FMT, FM3, FM2, Passport or birth certificate • Leasing contract (if the vehicle is rented or leased), which must be in the name of the person importing the vehicle. If the vehicle belongs to a company, the papers certifying the employee works for the company. If you do not have a credit card you can post a bond payable to the Federal Treasury issued by an authorized bonding company in Mexico. As an alternative to posting bond you may make a cash deposit at Banco del Ejercito in an amount equal to the value according to the “Table of Vehicle Values for Bonding Companies.” At Banco del Ejercito your credit card will be charged approx. from $200 USD. to $400 USD. A cash deposit will also be accepted if you do not have a credit card. Your deposit plus any interest will be returned to you when you leave Mexico. You may choose to obtain a bond through an authorized Mexican bonding company located at all border crossings. The bonding company also assess taxes and processing costs for this service. The vehicle permit is good for 6 months and for any type of vehicle weighing under 3 tons. When departing Mexico, and if you are not planning to drive the vehicle back into Mexico, the permit must be canceled with Customs. If your car is found in Mexico, beyond the Free Zone, and beyond the authorized time, or without the appropriate papers, it will be confiscated. Always carry the importation permit with you when driving your vehicle into Mexico. Take it with you when you exit the vehicle - do not leave this document in your car. Make a copy and leave a copy in the car - same with your insurance. The sale, abandonment or use of the vehicle for financial gain, a criminal act, etc. will result in its confiscation. The vehicle may be driven by the spouse or adult children as long as they have the same immigration status. It is a good idea to get a notarized document, if you are driving a vehicle beyond the free zone that is not registered in your name, nor the owner is in the vehicle. It should simply state that the owner has given you permission to drive the vehicle, you may want to include the make, model, year, color and VIN number. The Rocky Point Times Newspaper strives to keep the information up-to-date. Laws, rules and info. change constantly, so if you notice an error, or have additional info., please let us know so that we may change the info. Contact us with questions or corrections at rockypointtimes@ yahoo.com or phone (480) 4636255 or local 383-6325.
24
The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
rockypointtimes@yahoo.com • find us on facebook • follow us on twitter • www.rptimes.com
25
26
The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
rockypointtimes@yahoo.com • find us on facebook • follow us on twitter • www.rptimes.com
GENERALINFORMATION GENERAL INFORMATION ATV’s ATV’S ARE NOT PERMITTED ON CITY BEACHES Please follow these rules when riding ATV’s in Rocky Point. • Helmets mandatory • Only 2 persons per ATV • No riding after dark • Driver’s must be 16 yrs. of age • Do not race, jump, do wheelies, etc. • Do not drink and drive DO NOT RIDE IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS Main Blvd. Benito Juarez Blvd. Fremont or in the Old Port
You will be fined if riding in these areas. Fines are to be paid only at the police station.
$$ BANKING & MONEY $$ Typical Bank Hours Mon.-Fri. open 8:30 or 9 AM, close 4 or 5 PM Saturday 9 or 10 AM - 2 PM Banks do not offer Safety Deposit Boxes BANKS IN PUERTO PEÑASCO BANAMEX Sucursal Pinacate Blvd. Benito Juárez & Campeche 383-3943 or 383-4830 Blvd. Benito Juárez & Blvd. López Portillo 388-5842 or 388-5844 BANCOMER 383-2947 or 383-2430 Blvd. Benito Juárez & V. Estrella and in Plaza Fremont BANORTE 383-5955 • Blvd. Benito Juárez 388-6901 • Blvd. Fremont & Sinaloa SANTANDER SERFIN 383-2091 or 383-4288 Blvd. Benito Juárez & Calle 13 Hwy. 85, north of town ATM MACHINES ATM’s are located at the banks and have 24 hr. access. They give pesos only. The only one that gives dollars is the Banorte ATM on Fremont. When the machine prompts Pesos? Dollars? you must select pesos or your transaction will be aborted. There are U.S. ATM machines in Ajo, Why and Lukeville, AZ. CHECKS & CREDIT CARDS Most merchants do not accept U.S. checks and they are not cashable at banks or money exchanges. Some merchants do accept credit cards, but check first and ask if there is an additional charge. MONEY EXCHANGE All merchants accept USD. If you would like to exchange your dollars into pesos you can do so at one of the banks or at the money exchanges. Depending on the exchange rate, sometimes you are better off paying in USD or pesos, you will have to do the math. TRAVELERS CHECKS Travelers Checks are accepted by some merchants, but are not cashable at any bank in Puerto Peñasco. U.S. BANKS Closest U.S. bank to Puerto Peñasco National Bank 101 La Mina Avenue, Ajo, AZ 85321 (520) 387-2200 Mon.-Thurs. 9-4, Fri. 9-5
They do not exchange pesos or Canadian $
WIRE SERVICE You can send money to a person in Rocky Point, from the U.S., by using MoneyGram or Western Union. MoneyGram transfers are picked up at Coppel Department Store on Ave. Constitucion (across from Super Ley grocery store). It must say Puerto Peñasco, Sonora, Mexico and the receipent must have a driver’s license or a passport and the transaction number to retrieve the money. Western Union transfers may be picked up at the local post office during business hours, must show proof of ID. You cannot wire money to a bank for someone who does not have an account.
CHURCHES 7th Day Adventist Church Pastor Jose Luis Perez Perez Ave. Sinaloa (between Alberto Lizárraga & Gregorio Escalante) Tel: (638) 383-6760 Cel: (638) 100-6602 Worship Saturday 9:30am 2nd Location in Nuevo Peñasco Corner of 51st Ave & Aquiles Serdan (East side of Town) Adonai Comunidad Cristiana Lucero Viuda de Morúa #257 between López Mateos & Healy Col. Luis Donaldo Colosio Tel. 638.383.3865 www.adonaicc.net Assembly of God 383-3364 Ave. Luis Encinas & 27th Street Apostolic Church Constitucion Ave. & 15th Street Good Samaritan Callejon 25 and Ave. 65 (N. of Lazaro Cardenas) (638) 112-7035 Sunday Service 10:30 am Grupo Unidad Cristianos de Peñasco Pastor Ernesto Portugal 383-2240 North on Benito Juarez to Simon Morua, turn right (east), 1 blk. past Ace Hardware, turn right, church is on your left before Melchor Ocampo. English Headphone available Sunday Services 9:30am-11:15 & 11:30-1:30 Thursday: 7:30 - 9:00pm Church office hours Monday - Friday 9:30am to 2:00pm Peñasco Christian Fellowship 383-4513 ask for Stan or Becky Tedrow On Melchor Ocampo, 1/2 blk. E. of Blvd. Josefa Ortiz de Dominguez. Bilingual Services Sunday Services: 10am and 11:15am Wednesday Services: 7:00pm Family of God Christian Fellowship Non-Denominational Worship Services 383-3480 Blvd. Costero N 2000A, Fracc. Las Palomas English Services, Everyone Welcome Spanish Translation Offered Sunday Services: 9:00am Iglesia Sagrado Corazon de Jesus (Sacred Heart Church) Paseo V. Estrella in Old Port. Jehovah’s Witnesses Kingdom Hall 388-6244 Stadium road, on the left side just before Blvd. Josefa Ortiz de Dominguez, behind COFESA Sunday-English 9:30AM Mormon Church 18th St & Cuauhtémoc Ave Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe 383-2959 Calle 20 Simon Morua Sunday Services: 8:00 am and 10:00 am 1:00 pm, 6:00 pm and 7:30 pm Rocky Point Bible Church Iglesia Ev. Nuevo Nacimiento Pastor Manuel Agundez Blvd. Samuel Ocaña between San Luis and Guillermo Prieto Services in Spanish, but many English speaking groups attend to translate Services Sunday and Wednesday and Bible Study Groups Children’s Ministry every Saturday in Colonia Nueva Good News Club with Esperanza de Vida San Francisco Blvd. Josefa Ortiz de Dominguez Sunday Service: 11:00 am San Jose Mission Church Bilingual Catholic Mass offered every Sunday at 8 a.m. at San Jose’ Church in La Cholla/Cholla Bay. Everyone is welcome.
San Judas Tadeo near old Cholla Bay Road Sunday Services: 5:00 pm San Martin de Porres Ave. Luis Encinas Sunday Services: 9:00 am Templo La Hermosa 383-7130 Pastor Carlos Gracian Located next to the new cemetery Sunday Services: 10:00 am WEDDINGS: You need the proper documentation to be legally married in Mexico. Please see the “Weddings” section for more information
EMERGENCIES Puerto Peñasco’s hospitals and clinics handle a variety of emergency and nonemergency situations. Most visitors visit one of the Clinics (listed below) or the Red Cross for emergency services. Ground and air ambulance transport services are available. CLINICS Clínica Santa Fe Simón Morúa, 2nd corner off of Blvd. Benito Juárez English speaking doctors Lab on site, X-rays 383-2447 or 383-4040 Clínica San Jose 383-5121 English Speaking Doctors Blvd. Benito Juarez Clínica Santa Isabel (Maternity) 383-3645 Puerto Peñasco Clínica Santa María 383-2440 Puerto Peñasco CLOSEST U.S. CLINIC Desert Senita Health Center 401 Malcate, Ajo, AZ 85321 Off main blvd. at curve, N of the bank (520) 387-5651 CRUZ ROJA (RED CROSS) EMERGENCY DIAL 065 383-2266 Cruz Roja Mexicana Services are absolutely free 24 Hours, 7 Days a Week Red Cross does not receive any funding and operate solely on donations. Your contributions will be welcome at any time in their office on Blvd Fremont or stop when you see them on your way into town. Red Cross has Technicians and Instructors available in case of a disaster in Puerto Peñasco. They treat non-life threatening wounds and can prepare patients for ground or air ambulance service to U.S. VETERINARY CLINICS Veterinary Medical Services 638-383-334 / 637-372-4717 Chochoy 638-380-9285 OTHER IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS dialed from Mexico AIR AMBULANCE SERVICE AirEvac......................001-880-321-9522 Sky Med...................001-866-805-9624 CLINICS...............see Clincs on this page HOSPITALS Community...............................383-4566 IMSS..........................................383-5186 EMERGENCY NUMBERS WHEN IN DOUBT DIAL 066 Electric dial...071 Fire Department dial...068 Marine Rescue dial...462,627 or 767 VHF Channel 26 is monitored by CBSC Police dial...060 WHEN IN DOUBT DIAL 911 or 066
FIRST AID Scorpion Stings First aid for any scorpion sting should involve cooling the wound, which allows the body to more easily break down the molecular structure of the venom. Cooling also reduces pain. Use ice or cool running water if available. On a warm night, a wet compress will help. Keep the victim calm and still. Panic and activity speed up the venom’s spread. Symptoms may include heavy sweating, difficulty swallowing, blurred vision, loss of bowel control, jerky muscular reflexes, and respiratory distress. These serious signs are cause for quick evacuation to a medical facility. Antitoxins are available in many areas where dangerous scorpions live. The doctors, clinics and Red Cross are experts at treating stings. Snake Bites Yes! We do have snakes in Puerto Peñasco. Not usually found in city areas. If you are bitten by a rattlesnake, or any other kind of venmous snake, seek medical attention immediately. Anti-venom is available here in Peñasco. Jellyfish They are usually bright blue and are present in our waters during June, July and August, although they are sometimes hard to see because of the clarity of the water. Some years we have a few, and other years we have tons. In some beach communities, you will find far less than others. A good test to see if they are present, is to look along the tidelines for any that have washed ashore if they’re up there then there’s a pretty good chance they’re in the water. Use caution when walking barefoot on the beach or digging through the sand with your hands, they can still sting you (I know from experience). If you are stung, get to a doctor or the Red Cross immediately for treatment. Stingray Stings Our Rocky Point doctors, clinics and Red Cross are well adept at treating stings. The best way to avoid a sting is by doing the “stingray shuffle!” To avoid stepping on a ray, shuffle your feet slowly as you move through the surf to scare the rays away. Round stingrays are very good at burying in the sand and will remain buried even as you approach. By shuffling your feet you will brush against them and they will scurry away. If you walk through the water as you normally do you will most likely step square on the back of them which causes their barbed tail to come up and sting you. Be extra careful in area where the sediment is silty/sand or where the water is particularly warm. What do you do if you get stung by a ray? Get out of the water and head to the nearest doctor. If you are stranded out where these facilities are not available follow these steps and seek medical attention as soon as you can. First, let the wound bleed - this will allow any toxins entered with the barb to get out. Next, immerse the wound in hot water, as hot as the patient can stand for approximately 45 minutes: This denatures the protein toxin and relieves a majority of the pain. Then treat wound as any other puncture wound or cut, keep clean and bandage: This reduces the chance of infection, promotes healing. If pain or bleeding persists, if wound is large or if patient shows signs of an allergic reaction, see a doctor immediately! If you are staying at a resort go to the desk or convenience store - they may have a first aid kit with a treatment.
27
GENERALINFORMATION GENERAL INFORMATION FISHING & BOATING PERSONAL WATERCRAFT You do not need to obtain a boat permit for your persona watercraft. However, if you plan to fish from your boat, each person fishing must have a fishing license which can be purchased here in Puerto Peñasco. As with vehicles, it is a good idea to carry two copies of your title and registration for your watercraft and trailer. DO NOT BRING THE ORIGINALS! One copy should be kept on your boat/watercraft and the other shoud be carried on your person or put in a safe location during your stay. FISHING PERMITS You MUST have a fishing license for everyone onboard a boat, even if they are not fishing, permits are checked. You do not need a permit if you are fishing from the shore. Permits can be obtained locally at the Capitania de Puerto, M-F, 8AM to 3PM or at the Mexican Consulate in Phoenix. Fishing Permit Rates (approx.) Pesos Daily - $106.00; Weekly - $220.00 Monthly - $315.00; Yearly - $410.00 CHARTERS Many charter boats and pangas are available for hire by the hour/half-day/ day, or organized trip. We do not have any companies that rent boats for your personal use. Charter boats are located all over town and at the docks and on your way into Old Port (right hand side) as well as at Safe Marina and in Cholla Bay. Reputable charters are always the best choice. Please make sure there is enough safety gear on the boat for all persons in your party and that the captain has a marine radio in the event of an emergency. Fishing en Peñasco: Seasonal Fishing Calendar FISH JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC Trigger Fish Corvina Dolphin Fish Dorado Flounder Grouper Mackeral Pinto Bass Pompano Red Snapper Rock Bass Sea Bass Sea Trout Sierra Skipjack Yellowtail
FISHING & BOATING CON’T SEASONAL FISHING Spring: March, April, May Yellowtail, Grouper, Snapper, Whitefish, Pinto and Bass Summer: June, July, August Sailfish, Dolphin Fish, Marlin, Skipjack, Sierra Fall: September, October, November Sailfish, Dolphin Fish, Marlin, Skipjack, Sierra Winter: December, January, February Yellowtail, Grouper, Pinto Bass, Snapper
FM3 & IMMIGRATION IMMIGRATION OFFICE Open Mon.-Fri. 8:00AM - 12:00NOON (011-52-638) 383-2526 For more info on how to obtain your Visitor or Permanent Resident Visa go to http://www.inm.gob.mx/ index.php and click on the English tab, or you can go directly to the Immigration Office and they will be happy to help you. The office is located on Blvd. Fremont at Fremont Plaza, across from Banorte. There are many companies and individuals which can assist you with your immigration paperwork, please look in our Classified Section, under “Services” for suggestions.
GREEN ANGELS Angeles Verdes EMERGENCY DIAL 078 The Green Angels patrol the highway (Hwy. 8) from Puerto Peñasco to Sonoyta offering free roadside assistance to ve- hicles experiencing mechanical problems. Their trucks are green and white and clearly marked. They are on patrol from sunrise to sunset, 7 days a week. What to do if you need help? If you need assistance on the highway, whether it be a broken fan belt, blown tire or empty gas tank, pull over to the side of the road and lift the hood of your vehicle. If it is at night, please use your flashers for safety and always move as far away from the highway as you can to avoid accidents. Lifting your hood signals the Green Angels, as well as other helpful travellers, that you are in distress and in need of help. The Green Angels do not charge for their mechanical services, but you will need to pay for your own auto parts, gas, oil, etc. The Green Angels offer the following services: Aide in the event of an accident Emergency radio communication Mechanical assistance Tourist Information
INTERNET SERVICE & WIFI There are many internet cafes where you can check your email or surf the net. Some have computer stations and some offer WiFi. Most of the larger RV parks, hotels and condos have wireless and/or computer centers for your use. Telefonos de Mexico (TelMex) offers Prodigy internet service for land lines.
LATITUDE & LONGITUDE
Latitude - 31°, 19 minutes N Longitude - 113°, 32 min. W Bird Island: 31°, 01.31 min., N by 113°, 14.93 min. W
MAIL SERVICES
Puerto Peñasco Post Office (011-52-638) 383-2350 Monday - Friday 8:00 am-6:00 pm Money Wires, Telegrams & Mail Located just off Blvd. Fremont next to Twin Dolphins. The post office does not offer U.S. postal services. To send a letter in Mexico, you need a Mexican stamp, which can be purchased at the post office. They do not sell U.S. stamps. You may receive mail at your residence, however it takes approx. 2-4 weeks to arrive and the system is not terribly reliable. U.S. MAIL DELIVERY TO ROCKY POINT Burrito Express U.S. mail dropoff and pick-up service from Peñasco to Lukeville. U.S. POST OFFICE Phone/Fax: (520) 387-6364 Located at the Lukeville border in AZ,
approx. 66 miles from Rocky Point. PO boxes and General Delivery available. Window Service: 8AM-12:30PM, 1-4PM M-F General Delivery Available free for a max. of 30 days. You must show ID at the post office and fill out a form. You are the ONLY one who can pick up your GD mail. PO boxes are available, approx. $22/6-mo. Post office will need 2 forms of ID and you will be required to fill out an application. Boxes are located in the post office and in the General Store.
METRIC EQUIVALENTS
Equivalents for Length 1” = 2.5 cm 6” = (1/2 ft.) = 15 cm 12” = (1 ft.) = 30 cm 36” = (3 ft.) = 90 cm 40” = 100 cm (1 meter) To convert ounces to grams, multiply the number of ounces by 30. Equivalents for Weight 1 ounce = 1/16 lb. = 30g 4 ounces = 1/4 lb. = 120g 8 ounces = 1/2 lb. = 240g 12 ounces = 3/4 lb. = 360g 16 ounces = 1 lb. = 480g Equivalents for Liquid Measurements 1/4 tsp = 1 ml 1/2 tsp = 2 ml 1 tsp = 5 ml 2 tbls = 1/8 cup = 1 fl. oz = 30 ml 4 tbls = 1/4 cup = 2 fl. oz = 60 ml 8 tbsl = 1/2 cup = 4 fl. oz = 120 ml 12 tbls = 3/4 cup = 6 fl. oz = 180 ml 1 Pint = 2 cups = 16 fl. oz = 480 ml 1 Quart = 4 cups = 32 fl. oz = 960 ml Gallons to pints x 8 1 US gallon = 3.78541178 liters Gallons to liters x 3.785 Gallons to quarts x 4
NOTARY PUBLICS (NOTARIOS) The Mexican Notario is a highly specialized lawyer authorized by the Mexican Government. They intervene in civil and commercial business. Your best interest is supposed to be the Notario Publico’s main concern. They give judicial advisement according to Mexican Law and their authority exceeds that of a lawyer and is similar to that of an arbitrator in the U.S. You should consult a Notario when: buying or selling property, foreign Investments, inheritance, wills, mortgages, contracts, private contracts, financial operations, credit titles, arbitration, bank trusts, etc. You should consult a Notary Public (Notario Publico) in Mexico before signing any contract or legal document.
NOTARIO PUBLICOS Lic. Jesus Armando Ramirez Islas Prolongacion Coahuila No. 10 (next to post office) U.S. Toll Free (877) 832-8554 383-5460, Fax 383-5005 PO Box 100, Lukeville, AZ 85341 Lic. René Osvaldo Ortega Felix Ave. Alcantar in the Old Port 383-2006 Notary Publics in Sonoyta Lic. Fco. Javier Manzo Taylor from Mexico (01-651) 512-1747
PINACATE BIOSPHERE RESERVE Reserva de la Biosfera de El Pinacate y Gran Desierto de Altar The Pinacate Biosphere Reserve is home to some of the world’s largest volcanic craters and is one of the most pristine and diverse areas in the Sonoran Desert. It has a large variety of plant and wildlife species that inhabit this sometimes hostile area. In the winter, you may see snow on the Pinacates. And in the summer, temperatures soar well over 110°. U.S. astronauts trained for their lunar landing mission in this area as the terrain mimics that found on the moon.
You can take a day trip and explore the Pinacate area and volcanic craters by vehicle, camp overnight (in designated) areas, walk or hike. You must register at the entrance to the Reserve (located in
Nayarit, approx. 20 miles N of Rocky Point). This will allow Biosphere personnel to make sure you are safe at all times.
• Speed Limit: 25 MPH • Terrain/Roads: Dirt, desert • Watch out for flora and fauna • Do not leave the road in your vehicle • Take enough drinking water with you • Respect all signs on roads and trails • Do not remove or damage plants, rocks, wood, animals or artifacts • Take all trash and waste with you • Do not enter the region from any unauthorized access road
CAMPING & CAMPSITES Red Cone, El Tecolote, Backcountry areas INTERPRETATIVE TRAILS El Elegante Crater Trail 1.2 mile linear trail Walk 0.6 miles on the border of El Elegante crater. Terrain is mostly flat. Mayo Cone Trail 1.2 mile linear trail Located in El Tecolote camping area Walk 0.6 miles to the top of Mayo Cone. You will climb 344 ft. to the top. This hike is rated as a medium difficulty trail.
RV PARKS DRY CAMPING There are a few places to dry camp on the beach north and south of Rocky Point, but really nowhere in city limits except on Sandy Beach next to The Reef, and Concha Del Mar at the other end of Sandy Beach. Almost all of the RV Parks in Puerto Peñasco offer tent camping. There are three oceanfront rv parks with services available and many more in town or with an ocean view. Oceanfront RV parks are: Cholla Bay - The Reef (638) 383-0650 El Mirador - Playa de Oro (638) 2668 Sandy Beach - Playa Bonita (638) 383-2596 Sandy Beach - Concha del Mar (638) 383-4273 Pets are allowed on the beaches and at the RV parks. Dogs must be leashed and please pick up after them. See “Pets” in this section for more information. Please call the individual park for their rates and reservations.
SEMAR (MARINE SEARCH AND RESCUE) SECRETARIA DE MARINA - ARMADA DE MEXICO Located in the Marina 638-383-1691 01-800-627-4621 Channel 16 VHF Frecuency 2182 MHZ sarmarina@semar.gob.mx
U.S. DMV (MOTOR VEHICLES) The closest U.S. Department of Motor Vehicles to Puerto Peñasco is in Gila Bend. Authorized Service Provider Registration, title, no original drivers licenses, copies/ duplicates only. M-F 9AM-6PM, SAT 9AM-1PM 606 E. Pima St. • (928) 683-2577
VIRTUAL CONSULATE The 1st Wednesday of every month, the Virtual Consulate is open to the American Community. Located at City Hall on the 1st floor facing Fremont Blvd. 10am-12pm.
TELEPHONES Puerto Peñasco’s phone company for home and business hook-up is Telefonos de Mexico (TelMex). Cellular service is available through TelCel and Movistar. U.S. carrier AT&T works pretty good here as long as you have the International Plan. DIALING INSTRUCTIONS Call Mexico from U.S. & Canada to dial a land line 011+52+638+7-digit number to dial a Peñasco cellular 011+52+1+638+7-digit number Call U.S. & Canada from Mexico dial 001+(area code)+7 digit number Call Collect from Mexico to U.S. dial 090 for a bilingual operator Call Overseas from Mexico dial 00+country code+city code+phone number Country codes and Mexico area codes are listed in the TelMex Phone book Call another City in Mexico dial 01+(city code)+number AT&T Operator dial 001-800-462-4240 TELEPHONE COMPANY Telefonos de Mexico (TelMex) Juan de la Barrera and Calle 18 Office open 8 am • 383-2288 Phone & Internet services available TelMex (Land Line) Prefixes 383, 382, 388, 102, 108 Phone numbers are written in a variety of ways, here are a few you may see around town. 3-6325 = dial 383 + 6325 638-38-36325 = dial 383-6325 (638) 383-6325 = dial 383-6325 52+(638) 383-6325 = dial 383-6325 Mexico’s Country Code = 52 Puerto Peñasco’s City Code = 638 LONG DISTANCE To make a long distance call, your best bet is to find a cafe or internet cafe with a VOIP phone. Second best is to purchase a prepaid phone card (LADATEL) from pharmacies or businesses, and use one of the many pay phones along the streets - follow the instructions on the phone. You can also use one of the long distance (larga distancia) calling services located around town.
U.S. CALLING CARDS If you use your calling card and dial an 800#, that is not toll free within Mexico, you will be charged twice for this call - 1 charge for calling the 800 #, and then a 2nd charge on your phone card. You may also use one of the long distance services to call the U.S. and Canada. CELLULAR PHONES to dial a cell phone from a land line dial 638 + 7-digit number to dial from local cell to local cell dial 638 + 7-digit number to dial out of city cell from local cell dial city code + 7-digit number Any number that does not start with a 383, 388, 382, 102 or 108 is most likely a cellular phone You cannot dial a U.S. 800# from your Mexican cellular phone.
The only U.S. cell carrier, we have found to work in Rocky Point 96% of the time, is AT&T’s International Plan. All services work - SMS, MMS, Blackberry, etc. Follow the instructions (left) for dialing the U.S. or Canada, and to dial a land line. To dial a cell phone, you may have to dial 044 + 638 + 7-digit number, or you may just need to drop the 044. Sometimes, when calling a local cell, I had to dial as if I were dialing a cell from the U.S. Check plans and where you spend the most time. TelCel’s Blackberry plan is much cheaper than AT&T’s, plus they have a reasonable International Plan for when I travel to the U.S. You can also get an unlocked phone, buy a SIM card, and switch chips as you cross the border. Mexico cell carriers are supposed to start fingerprinting everyone who purchases a cell phone or SIM card. AREA CODES FOR NEARBY CITIES Caborca.............................................637 El Golfo de Santa Clara.................................653 Guaymas...........................................622 Hermosillo........................................662 Mexicali, B.C.................................................686 Nogales.................................................631 Santa Ana.....................................................641 San Luis Rio Colorado..................................653 San Carlos.....................................................622 San Felipe, B.C...............................................686 Sonoyta...................................................651 Check phonebook for more area codes
VOIP LINES Local internet acccess enables you to use a VOIP line in Rocky Point. HOW TO DIAL 800’s U.S. 800#’s are not free of charge when called from Mexico. The charge for calling an 800# is approx. $1USD/min. 800 = dial 001+880+phone number 888 = dial 001+881+phone number 877 = dial 001+882+phone number 866 = dial 001+883+phone number 855 = dial 001+884+phone number 844 = dial 001+885+phone number
WEATHER Puerto Peñasco is known for having 362 days of sunshine! The wind does kick up, a few sprinkles will fall, and the humidity creeps in around July/August, but other than that it’s darn near perfect around here.
WEDDINGS Rocky Point offers a variety of perfect wedding settings - from a barefoot sunset wedding to a lavish wedding at a 5-star resort. Many of the hotels, resorts and restaurants offer wedding planning services and catering. LEGAL CEREMONY IN MEXICO To get married in a legal ceremony in Puerto Peñasco you need: Birth certificates, translated into Spanish, notarized in Mexico; Divorce Decree; Blood test (in Rocky Point); Visas (FMT’s); 4 Witnesses (w/Visas). Your wedding planner will help you plan your reinactment ceremony as well.
28
The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
Turn The Page To 2021 By Vince Deadmond
M
ost folks couldn't scrape the scent of 2020 off the bottom of their shoe fast enough. There seems to be great anticipation, and hope for 2021, with the release of the vaccine for Covid-19. We lost too many people, and couldn't seem to get a handle on the virus soon enough. Social distancing seems to have caught on and folks are spending more time outdoors doing more solitary things, like rediscovering fishing. It wasn't as noticeable as the hand sanitizer and toilet paper shortage, but basic fishing supplies, hooks, lines, and sinkers were missing from retail shelves for a long time. If you have decided that 2021 is the year that you are going to start your saltwater fly fishing adventure I have a few equipment suggestions for you. When you start searching for fly fishing gear you may be slapped in the face with sticker shock. You will find some top end fly rods priced at $1200 and yes, they are wonderful sticks. My most expensive rods I won in a fly club raffle, and I have some really good rods that I have spent around $300 to purchase. You can take a rod building class where you buy and assemble your own parts for $60 and finish with a rod
that would retail for around $400. You can shop used equipment on Ebay and ease into fly fishing for less than $200 and have the basics of rod and reel covered. My recommendation for a fly rod to fish Rocky Point would be a saltwater 4 piece eight weight 9 foot model with a fighting butt. The saltwater model is usually stiffer for the larger flies that you will be throwing. The 4 piece breaks down into a smaller package for storage and travel. The eight weight is a good all-around size for most of the fish that we catch in Rocky Point. The fighting butt gives you more leverage in fighting fish. Almost anything for a reel will do. We don't get a lot of fish that make long runs, so the reel is just a line holder. I picked up a new 7/8 Piscifun reel for about $50 off the internet. Where you don't want to go cheap is on the fly line. I would suggest a 300-400 grain sinking line with an intermediate sink running line. This is the line that I use most often for RP fishing. You can expect to pay $80 to $120 for a line like this. After you get outfitted you need a plan, you can't just show up and expect great fishing. My plan starts with a tidelines calendar, I like to arrive in RP so I can fish the neap tides, the two smaller tides during the month. The spring tides move so much water that they are difficult to manage, or even allow your weighted line to get down in the water column. The tide calendar will tell you when the tide is going in and out. Your plan should be to go with the tide even on a neap tide, it's easier to go with the flow. Some local businesses stock the tide calendar for RP or you can go on line www.tidelines.com and order yours. After you get your days picked for fishing you will need a few flies. I like ones that look like baitfish, shrimp, or crabs. Two of my favorite flies are the Clouser Minnow that looks like a fish, and the Gotcha'a that looks shrimpy. I tie my own, but you can buy flies from your local fly shop or on line. I would suggest flies tied on a size 4 stainless hook so it does not rust. Finally, you may need a fly-casting lesson, if you are not casting 50 feet you need to work on your double haul. A fly-fishing guide should be able to tune up your casting, this is not a natural motion and everyone who does it well has had help. Hope to see you on the water in 2021.
Contact information for Vince Deadmond the retired fly-fishing hardware guy, vince@ ajbest.com and 480 818 1796. Fly fishing Puerto Peñasco should remain good through December. Check the tide chart, I prefer the neap tides for fly fishing from my kayak.
rockypointtimes@yahoo.com • find us on facebook • follow us on twitter • www.rptimes.com
29
30
The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
rockypointtimes@yahoo.com • find us on facebook • follow us on twitter • www.rptimes.com
31
32
The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
Here’s to 2021
By Cholla Charli
N
ew Year’s Eve has always been a big deal for Bob and me. It’s the start of another trip around the sun and the eve of our wedding anniversary and his birthday. We welcomed 2020 at a gala event at the Mayan Palace and looked forward to another year of fun and friends in Rocky Point. For New Year’s Eve 2021, the options were few, but we made our reservation early for a special event at Infusion at Laguna Shores Resort. Most folks say they are glad to have 2020 in their rearview mirror, but some wonderful things happened as we all suffered through the fear and confinement and restrictions. We watched organizations and individuals all over town find ways to help those less fortunate. Driving by Family of God Church around the lunch hour
brought tears to my eyes. People without work and without means were lined up down the block, six feet apart with masks in the heat of the day, to accept a sack lunch. It took many volunteers and generous donations to make that service possible. The church was not open for worship, but they were there for God’s people in need, as were other Peñasco churches. Restaurants put together meals for poor. Volunteers drove through town looking for red flags on homes which signaled they were in need of food, medicine or money for utilities. Service organizations created soup kitchens and collected donations outside of the grocery stores to help others. Many thought the city’s Covid-19 restrictions were over the top; but you can’t fault the results. Because they shut down the roads into Peñasco, put up the sanitation stations, enforced the curfew and mask requirements, the infection rate here was way below the norm for cities our size. It was a tough year, but it gave all of us a chance to examine what is really important in life – family, friends, faith and freedom. So “Salud” to you and those you love in 2021.
Photo by Anthony DELANOIX on Unsplash To a healthy and happy, new year, beside the Sea of Cortez.
rockypointtimes@yahoo.com • find us on facebook • follow us on twitter • www.rptimes.com
33
34
The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
rockypointtimes@yahoo.com • find us on facebook • follow us on twitter • www.rptimes.com
CLUBSAND CLUBS ANDORGANIZATIONS ORGANIZATIONS AACORP (ANIMAL CENTER) Founder: Nancy Phelan: 383-1012 Leon de la Barra (Calle 15), 3 blocks east of the main blvd. Benito Juarez nancy_phelan@yahoo.com AACORP Tax Deductible Donations PO Box 1031, Lukeville, AZ 85341 CATS & KITTENS NEED TO FIND FOREVER HOMES NOW as the animal center will be closing this year. We have been dedicated to helping the stray animals of Rocky Point for 15+ years, but it is time to close our doors. Donations are still needed and welcome: We are a 501(c)3 non-profit so your donations are tax deductible. See this issue for current needs or call the above number.
ADOPT-A-CLASSROOM
Provides basic school supplies, computers, copiers, chalkboards, etc. to local classrooms Founder: Barbara Olszewski: 383-4963 (602) 324-9529 www.rockypointclassroom.com Donations can be dropped off at the Rocky Point Times Office or sent to Barb at: PO Box 695, Lukeville, AZ 85341
AGRUPACION GEORGE PAPANICOLAOU Madrid and Ave. Marcelo Pino grupaciongeorgepapanicolaou@hotmail.com Cancer clinic dedicated to early prevention. Screenings and tests available. MONTHLY MEETINGS 1st Thurs. of every month PATIENT CONSULTATIONS Wednesday 9AM-1PM PAP SMEARS Friday 9AM-2PM by appointment only Please call 1 to 2 weeks prior 383-4399
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS Welcome Open AA Meetings at South of the Border Passport Club Location: Directly across from Granada del Mar Hotel South of Sinaloa st., where the road ends and the sea begins at the office of Oc3an View Ministry. Schedule: M-W-F 10AM Women's Recovery AA/Al-Anon Open Meeting Thursday at 11AM Contact Conrado at MX Cell (638) 109-8017 Marcia: marsupis@gmail.com
AMERICAN LEGION POST MX 15 141 Chihuahua & Matamoros (Calle #1) Across from Pink Cadillac Open daily and the Public Always Welcome 2017 OFFICERS: Commander: Mike LaBarge Vice Commander: Jerry Clackler 2nd Vice Commander: Mike Williams Adjutant: Gary May General Meetings 1st Wednesday of month at 10:00 a.m. (from October thru June) Contact Food & Beverage Manager Danny Anderson for information regarding special events, celebrations & dinners throughout the year. Bingo: Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday 2:00 p.m. Telephone Numbers: U.S. (602) 539-2047 Mexico 011-52 (638) 388-8841 Magic Jack (602) 539-2047 ALL VISITORS WELCOME!
AMOR MINISTRIES International Headquarters: 1664 Precision Park Lane San Diego, CA 92173 Phone: (619) 662-1200 www.amor.org Amor Ministries builds more than 1,000 new homes across Mexico for Mexican families. They are selected to receive homes by the Mexico Ministry Planning Board. Pastors discern the needs within their community, present their nominations and one (or more) are selected to receive a new home built by Amor volunteers.
AMPI The Asociación Mexicana de Profesionales Inmobiliarios (AMPI), or the Mexican Association of Real Estate Professionals, Puerto Peñasco 51, represents ethical professionalism in real estate practice and promotes education among real estate professionals. A sister organization to National Association of Realtors (NAR) in the United Estates, AMPI works closely with the State of Sonora to provide education for real estate licensure, which is required in the State of Sonora for all agents who represent any type of property transaction including sales, rentals, property management, and promotion. Active in the community, AMPI promotes Puerto Peñasco as a vacation and retirement destination, members donate generously to local causes, and AMPI works with other organizations to sponsor community activities. AMPI operates the local Multiple Listing Service (MLS) on behalf of our real estate clients. Board members: President: Joseph Toland Vice President: Jorge "George" Bravo Secretary VP Communications: Robin Miller Treasurer: John Thompson Legal: Lic. Leticia Marquez VP Education: Cathy Poturalski VP Events: Martin Martinez VP Ethics: Kyle Woods For inquiries, please contact: Blanca Valdez, AMPI Administrator Email: penascoampi@gmail.com AMPI phone: 638-388-0006
ANTI-GRAFFITI CAMPAIGN Founder: Eloy Gonzalez: 044-638-112-0898 eloy_glez_glez@hotmail.com Group dedicated to wiping out the unsightly graffiti in Puerto Peñasco. Donations of paint, brushes, rollers, and your time are always welcome and needed.
BARB’S DOG RESCUE Help Us Help Them. We are a concerned group of dog lovers working to better the lives of Peñasco’s dogs. We are expanding our facility on the edge of town where we house dogs. We are committed to taking in abandoned and neglected dogs, maintaining and rehabilitating them in a healthy environment and finding loving permanent homes. We ask for your help. Virtually every dog that comes to us is malnourished and in poor health. The need is great. Visit Barb’s Dog Shelter located 8 miles north of Rocky Point on the highway to Sonoyta, where you will see signs. Donations are also accepted at Twin Dolphins Real Estate on Fremont Blvd, next to Cruz Roja. E-Mail barbsdogrescue@ gmail.com Visit us on Facebook or Call Barb at (044-638) 114-1659 or Dee at (044-638) 384-0113 or from the US (602) 324-7241.
BOOK & EXCHANGE Rocky Point Times Office Ave. Agustin Melgar, Off Of Blvd. Samuel Ocaña Puerto Peñasco, Son. Mexico 83550 Col. Nueva Esperanza Phone: 383-6325: Mon.-Wed. 9am-5pm www.rptimes.com Free Book, VHS and DVD exchange for all Rocky Point residents and visitors.
CANACO-SERV Y TUR Puerto Peñasco Chamber of Commerce Servicios y Turismos de Pto. Peñasco Phone: 383-4468 Located on Blvd. Fremont and Coahuila Monday - Friday 8AM-3PM President: Elia Neyda Javalera Chavez
(Please note that our Chamber of Commerce is not like those that you find in U.S. cities and do not provide the same services and information.)
CASA HOGAR (ELDERLY HOME) Director: Father Abraham Garcia Lopez Phone: 383-2599 Ave. Miguel Hidalgo (Calle 13) and Josefa Ortiz de Dominguez Casa Hogar is supported solely on donations and they always welcome visitors to sing and play games. Take Blvd. Fremont toward Las Conchas, make a left at the Pemex station, cross over the rrx tracks and they are on your left. If you would like to make a donation you can make a check to: Patronato Pro Asilo de Ancianos de Puerto Peñasco A.C. and drop it off at the home. You may drop checks or donations off at the Rocky Point Times office. Help to pay their electric bill, especially during the summer months, is always needed. You may also make a donation at a local grocery store for the purchase food and items.
CHOLLA BAY CHRISTMAS PARTY Donations payable to: Cholla Bay Christmas Fund Please send to: Nancy Schmidli 10645 W Connecticut Ave., Sun City, AZ 85351 An organization that celebrates a Christmas party for their fellow Cholla Bay Mexican neighbors in early December. Santa shows up for pictures with the kids, children get to pick a gift for their mother, take a crack at the piñata, have a group sing-along and munch on hot dogs and chips. After all the fun, Santa delivers gifts for the children and food boxes for the families.
CHOLLA BAY SPORTSMENS CLUB
OFFICERS President: Mike Dugan: 638-382-5237 Vice-President: Lew Felton Secretary: Barb Baird: 638-384-2281 Treasurer: Enedina Otanez: 638-382-5142 Membership: Eamonn O'Callaghan: (602) 394-9879
CEDO Center for the Study of Oceans & Deserts Phone: 382-0113 or (520) 829-4501 Located in Las Conchas, look for the Fin Whale skeleton Mon. - Sat. 9AM-5PM; Sun. 10AM-2PM PO Box 1579, Lukeville, AZ 85341 info@cedointercultural.org www.cedointercultural.org CEDO is the Intercultural Center for the Study of Oceans and Deserts. Home to a giant fin whale skeleton and a desert botanical garden, CEDO is a field station for researchers and school classes, an education center with library, laboratories, book store and gift shop - An Intercultural Experience. CEDO is a nonprofit organization dedicated to research, education and conservation of the planet’s last great frontiers: the Sea of Cortez. LOTS OF FUN AND GREAT EXPERIENCE FOR CHILDREN & ADULTS! FREE PUBLIC TOURS Every Tuesday 2PM; Saturday 4PM CEDO ADVENTURES FOR EVERYONE Kayak Capers Explore beautiful Estero Morua with expert guides. Local ecology talk, kayak rental, picnic feast,drinks all in an environment rich with shore birds, crabs and halophytes. Estero Excursions Oyster farms, fiddler crabs and the “shrimp dance” are part of this walking tour of a pristine upper Gulf wetland. Kayak Estero Morua and/or tour with CEDO experts. Tidepool Explorations Explore the tidepools with CEDO experts. Explore the Sand Dunes Spectacular Gran Desierto de Altar. This sea of natural dunes is the world’s largest. An experience you won’t forget! Pinacate Adventure Explore the geologic wonders of the Pincate Biosphere Reserve on a tour with CEDO experts.
CEDO CON’T Isla San Jorge Snorkel with the sea lions in their natural habitat at Bird Island or just enjoy the scenery from the boat and take photos. A must do trip!
CLUBSAND CLUBS ANDORGANIZATIONS ORGANIZATIONS D.I.F. Desarrollo Integral de la Familia Sinaloa and Ruiz Cortines dif@puertopenasco.gob.mx difpuertopenasco@hotmail.com www.difpenasco.gob.mx www.puertopenasco.gob.mx Directora: Mayor’s Wife Supported solely by donations, this social service organization offers medical aid and a variety of services for needy families. If you know of a family in need you may contact DIF for help. They hold many public fundraisers throughout the year to raise money.
Also referred to as the CBSC Dues: $40, Payable to CBSC P.O. Box 77152, Tucson, AZ 85703 The Cholla Bay Sportsmens Club is responsible for maintaining, monitoring, and staffing the VHF Marine Channel 28 for the northern Sea of Cortez as well as CB Radio Channel 3. The CBSC pays the salary of the operator, aides in search and rescue operations. They also publish the Cholla Chatter and put on numerous events during the year such as the CBSC Fishing Derby, Horseshoe Tournament and other fun stuff held in Cholla Bay.
BOARD MEMBERS Pat Goodin, Rhea Dugan, Nancy Schmidly, Chuck Blair, Marlene Blair, Dave Heath, Connie Horton, Billie Crumbley, Theresa Orcutt The CBSC provides an invaluable service for those at sea and promotes good relations between American visitors and our Mexican neighbors.
C.I.D.A Director: Joaquin Celaya Rendon Phone: 638-102-0514 Cellphone: (044-638) 091-65 Call for directions Shelter providing housing, food and care for those addicted to drugs and alcohol. Donations needed all year long.
CONNECTION CLUB Meet every Thursday at 4pm at Puesta Del Sol Restaurant at Playa Bonita Resort. Want to meet folks in Puerto Peñasco? Come to The Connection, a happy hour gathering where you can meet a great group of people. Married? Single? Full-time or part-time resident? Mexican, American, other nationality, young, mature? It doesn’t matter. Everyone is welcome.
COORDINACION DE SALUD MUN. Puerto Peñasco Animal Control Dedicated to prevention and disease control Mon-Fri 8am-3pm, Phone: 388-5152 Coordinator: Dra. Socorro Canine Tech.: Mario Lopez Sub-Director: Jesus Bejarano Social Worker: Marina Soto Siqueiros We always welcome donations of dog food, supplies and medicine
GOD'S GRACE FOUNDATION Founder: Robert Gutiérrez (480) 273-7141 Facebook/www.godsgracefoundation Feeding. clothing and first aid Christian Ministry.
GREEN ANGELS Angeles Verdes Hwy. 8 Patrol: Sunrise to Sunset Pull off shoulder and raise vehicle hood EMERGENCY DIAL 078 Provides assistance, tourist aid, information and emergency radio service for travellers on Hwy. 8 from Sonoyta to Rocky Point. Bilingual “Green Angels” provide protection service, medical aid and basic mechanical aid. There is no charge for mechanical service, you will only pay for auto parts, gas, oil, etc.
GRUPO SAN PEREGRINO CHILDREN’S HOME D.I.F. children’s home is on Calle Marcelo Pino and Callejon Benito Juarez. The home is equipped to accommodate 50 children ranging in ages from newborns to 11 years. Children are taken care of until their families have complied with the rehabilitation period, treatments, or requests by SDMF. The home is located just behind the Basic Unit Rehabilitation Center of D.I.F.
EL GOLFO RUN Rocky Point Times Newspaper 383-6325 or from U.S. 480-463-6255 rockypointtimes@yahoo.com
CHOLLA CHARITIES FOUNDATION Sally Dalton: 382-5283 (Xochitl’s Cafe) Donations payable to: Cholla Charity Fund Send to: Kathy Barnard 1547 E. Royal Palm Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85020 Organization that helps Mexican families, who live and work in Cholla Bay, with unexpected expenses such as medical, living, funeral, etc.They also collect and distribute blankets and warm clothing for children in Cholla Bay. Donations may be dropped off at Xochitl’s Cafe in Cholla Bay.
35
The El Golfo Run is a fun bi-annual 4x4 trip (May and Oct) to El Golfo de Santa Clara through the desert, salt flats and onto the beach - even the coastal hwy. All 4x4’s welcome to join. There is no charge, fee, etc., you pay for your own motel and food when you get there. (Must have a sense of humor and be very patient.)
ESPERANZA PARA LOS NIÑOS Children’s Home: I.A.P., Casa Hogar para niños desamparados 383-2378 Off of Hwy. 8, 15 mi. N of Rocky Point PO Box 1024, Lukeville, AZ 85341 Secretary: Jose Manuel Barrera Sanchez Treasurer: Florencia Lucila G. Miron The children’s home is located outside of town, apx. 15 miles, and houses anywhere from 10 to 40 children. It provides temporary housing for families that cannot afford to take care of their children or are having a hard time. This is not an orphanage - these children are not up for adoption. They are always in need of cleaning supplies and fresh food (not canned items).
ESPERANZA DE VIDA Darlene Laura and Carole Fields Ave. Pino Suarez No. 143, Col. El Ferrocarril, Playa “F” Provides clothes, food, toys and medicine to the children/families in Colonia Nueva area.
FUNERAL HOMES Funeraria Renacimiento 383-1233 Funeraria Santa Cecilia 383-2522
Spiritual Support Cancer Group Dra. Arminda Gonzalez: 110-4934 Glenda Lopez: 383-2414 Mariana Perez: (044-638) 102-0564 sanperegrinopenasco@gmail.com The group’s mission is to provide spiritual and monetary support to individuals in Rocky Point that are affected by cancer.
HELPING HANDS Manos de Ayuda, Inc. 383-5287 or (520) 760-8645 President: Ramon Contreras Pamela J. Lyke Marquez: pjlmarquez@aol.com Manos de Ayuda, Inc. is a non-profit corporation that provides rehabilitation, health education, medical and therapy equipment and supplies to children with special needs. They also help with construction modifications at a nursing home, a free clinic, and day care facility. These projects are made possible by volunteer efforts and financial assistance. Your help is always needed.
I.R.A.D. Director: Julio Alberto Lucero Arreola 044-638-109-2566 Located off of Cholla Bay Road I.R.A.D. is the institute for the recovery of drug addicts and alcoholics. The shelter houses, feeds and cares for those persons addicted. They rely and operate solely on donations and often sell candy to raise money to keep the centers open. They will always present their identification.
MEN’S SHELTER Centro de Rehabilitación para Adultos y Jovenes La Esperanza A.C. Local Director: C. José de La Cruz Bravo 044-638-106-4079 identificacruz@live.com.mx On Simon Morua behind the new cemetery The center helps men in need by providing clothing, housing, job training and food. They run solely on donations.
MEXICO CHILDRENS FOUNDATION
Founder: Steve Schwab Established 2003 520-232-2241 7655 E Redfield Rd. Suite 3 Scottsdale, AZ, 85260 www.mexicochildrensfoundation.org Email: info@mexicochildrensfoundation.org A non-profit organization in Puerto Peñasco dedicated to enriching the lives of the children and their families. The organization provides medical assistance, assists families, offers education and assists in the general enrichment of children’s lives. The group holds many events during the year including golf tournaments, a children’s walk, triathlon, concerts and a New Year’s Eve Bash.
MISSION VILLA GRANADA
(Weekend Missions) Be part of something bigger than yourself! We provide a 3-day international missions trip for less than $150 per person. Includes lodging and all meals. We are a Christian Ministry. However, anyone is welcome to join us in serving the RP Community. Volunteers needed at Mission Villa Granada for maintenance, cleaning, cooking, church building upkeep, marketing, or anything you love to do. We are located at the former Villa Granada Hotel, 2 blocks east of El Pollo Lucas. Visit Weekendmissions.com, email pva@cox. net or call Carmen (638) 103-4336 or Vincent (602) 696-3288.
NUEVA CREACION
Knox Trail Council Bsa Yvette Lavin yvettelavin1212@gmail.com (508) 667-4031
Phone: 382-0050 / (602) 476-1454 Guard Gate: 382-0095 President: Ginger Beauchamp Executive Vice President: Naoma Leader Vice President: Bart Stockton Treasurer: Randi Alcott Secretary: Raylene Pavlicek
Rehabilitation Center and Shelter for women, teens, and children suffering drug addiction, abuse or violence. The Center is a legally stablished Non Profit Institution. Director: Guadalupe de Soto and Guadalupe de Soto (638) 105-9804 taviita_07@hotmail.com Juan Aldama #527 (52 & 53 Streets) Colonia Nuevo Peñasco.
LIONS CLUB
OC3AN VIEW MINISTRY
LAS CONCHAS HOMEOWNERS ASSOC.
Phone: 383-2488 Ave. Niños Heroes and Juan Aldama President: Ramón Ramos Rodríguez Women’s Committee President Lupita de Ramos Some of their programs include info. & action for the prevention of hypertension and diabetes, prescription glasses, eye surgery, supply wheelchairs, braces, crutches, etc. Donations of eyeglasses, or any other items may be dropped off at the office of the RPTimes.
the displaced. Our Community Center is located on Kino Blvd at Francisco Madero. We accept clothing, current dated dry food items, new children’s toys, school supplies, household goods, furniture, tools and construction materials. From our thrift store sales we fund all aspects of our ministry; these include: our dinner, fun free family events, community construction opportunities, and ministries at rehab centers. Hours of Operation at our Community Center: Thrift Store: Tues. thru Sat. 12-5 Our Dinner, serving free food: Tues. & Thur. 1-2 Free Fun Family events: scheduled throughout the year watch for them on FBoc3anviewminisry Please come join us. For information about serving opportunities at Our Dinner, Thrift Store, Mission Groups, Fun Free Family events, construction projects and rehab center ministries go to: www.oc3eanviewministry.com Conrad Flores, President and Founder oceanviewministry@gmail.com US: 480-264-1172 MX: 638-109-8017
OLD BOYS SOCIAL CLUB President: Lew Felton Fun group that hold meetings every month and puts on a variety of fun activities such as the Bash every year and donates to local charities and organizations.
PEÑASCO SINGLES (PS) A group of local singles, both full and part time residences. All singles are invited to join (no fee) this laid back group for the happy hours each Tuesday at 4 pm at Puesta del Sol restaurant at Playa Bonita Resort. The location for the Saturday breakfasts will be announced at this happy hour. For more information contact any of the following: Marti 812-3191463 (U.S. cell works locally), or Dick 638-1050615 (local cell) or 602-321-8106 (U.S. cell works locally) or just show up at the Tuesday happy hour and introduce yourself.
PINACATE BIOSPHERE RESERVE Fundación para Conservación del Pinacate, A.C. Office Hours: 9AM - 5PM U.S. Mail: PO Box 745, Ajo, AZ 85321 El Pinacate Biosphere Reserve is considered one of the most unique volcanic zones in the world. The conservation of these gigantic craters and the surrounding areas are an important part of our ancient history and culture. Self guided hikes, overnight camping and exploring are allowed in the area provided you do not harm, disrupt or take plants, wildlife or artifacts from the area. Visitors must register at the office as they enter the reserve. The reserve is located at the halfway town (Nayarit) between Rocky Point and Sonoyta. Also located near this area is Gran Desierto de Altar, home to the largest area of natural sand dunes.
PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS WOMEN
www.oc3anviewministry.com We are a Mexican non-profit hosting mission groups; bringing aid and comfort to families and
Professional Business Women’s Club Meetings each Tuesday 8PM Phone: 383-2052 Monday - Friday 9AM - 1PM Constitucion and Serdán esq. # 1 www.bpwpuertopenasco.com This association of professional business women meets once a week and helps young women who are finishing school - high school or college and who have economic needs.
PUERTO PEÑASCO SCOUTING PROJECT Contact: Deb Turner (638) 386-8645 (520) 906-3096 trnrrck@yahoo.com Barbara Olszewski rpbarbo@gmail.com (602) 324-9529 / (638) 114-2406
RED CROSS (CRUZ ROJA) EMERGENCY DIAL 911 OR 060 Business Phone: 383-2266 www.cruzrojapenasco.org.mx
Monetary donations can be made in person, to the Red Cross people with their cans out when you see them in the street or you may deposit directly into their account: Banamex Acct# 7661161 SUC. 472 Located on Blvd. Fremont, across from the Fire Department (Bomberos) SERVICES ARE FREE OF CHARGE The Red Cross offers its services free of charge to the general public. They handle a number of minor injuries such as stings, bites, cuts, sprains, broken bones, etc. They have ambulance service and offer their services 24 hours a day. They work with local doctors and clinics to provide emergency care for patients with more serious injuries. They operate solely on donations, so please donate when you can. They are always in need of medical supplies, crutches, wheelchairs, etc. You may drop off donations at the Red Cross or at the office of the Rocky Point Times. The Red Cross can fill Portable Oxygen Tanks with prior notice.
REHABILITATION CENTER Unidad Basica de Rehabilitacion Therapy for the handicap and those with special needs. Consultations accepted. Coordinator: Esperanza Lopez Trasviña Phone: 383-1918 Juan Aldama & Marcelo Pino
ROCKY POINT CHRISTMAS Tab Gray: tab@rockypoint.com Family of God Christian Fellowship PO Box 738, Lukeville, AZ 85341
ROTARY CLUB PUERTO PEÑASCO MAR DE CORTÉS President: Shandra Keesecker Secretary: Oscar Palacio Soto clubrotariopuertopenasco@gmail.com www.clubrotariopuertopenasco.com FB: @clubrotariopuertopenasco Meetings: Wednesdays 8 am @ Don Julio in the Old Port
SAN JOSE CHURCH MISSION OF OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE
Cholla Bay Road on the right before you enter La Cholla. Mass time as 8 a.m.
ST. VINCENT DE PAUL
Thrift Store open Monday - Saturday 9am-4pm Run solely on donations Turn W on Samuel Ocaña, go to the first 4-way stop and turn left, go 1 block and turn right, then go 2 blocks and turn left. Thrift store is the light green building located at the end of the street on the right hand side. St. Vincent de Paul helps needy citizens by furnishing clothing, food baskets, medical assistance and basic needs.
SANTA CLAUS CLUB
Organizer: John Fowler: 602-840-1528 PO Box 5, Lukeville, AZ 85341 Delivers food boxes, bikes, toys and clothes to needy families all year long. Donations are accepted and transported to Rocky Point year round. If you have a donation pickup in the Phoenix area, call John Fowler or email santaclausclub@hotmail.com.
2 FISH MINISTERIOS Founder: Pastor Stan Tedrow Peñasco Christian Fellowship
Melchor Ocampo & Tecla Bustamante Donations accepted and welcomed at the Felowship Monday Friday 8AM - 2PM All gifts are taxdeductible Checks payable to: Mission Heartbeat PO Box 1032, Lukeville, AZ 85341 This rapidly growing organization was created after seeing the desperate need families were faced with when the U.S. economy declined, heavily impacting Mexico, and the peso dropped dramatically. As a result, jobs vanished, more people became homeless and could no longer afford to feed their families. Pastor Stan Tedrow shared his burden to feed the hungry with his congregation, and two feeding sites were born on February 24, 2009 with more being added since then. Currently, citizens can receive a hot meal at Fountain of Life Mission in Colonia San Rafael and at Arizona Taco Place on Constitucion and at Aquiles Serdan across from Hotel Paraiso del Desierto on Constitucion.
TOURISM BUREAU (OCV) Puerto Peñasco Convention & Visitor’s Bureau 388-0444/US Toll Free 877-843-3717 Mexico Toll Free: 01-800-552-2820 Ave. Coahuila 444 Int. 1a Fremont & Víctor Estrella www.cometorockypoint.com Mon-Fri: 9am-2pm & 4-7pm, Sat 9am-3pm President: Hector Vazquez Lic. Ana Laura Saens: 383-7025 Rafael Gonzales V.: 388-0444 A group of a variety of community members who volunteer their time and efforts to raise money, purchase supplies and provide food bags, shoes and toys at Christmas time for the less fortunate. Every year thousands of children, men and women flock to receive their goodies, take pictures with Santa Claus, play games, eat hot dogs and have a great day. Volunteers spend all year collecting donations and then coordinate efforts a few weeks prior to the big event, which usually takes place mid-December.
WOMEN REHAB CENTER
Centro de Rehabilitacion para Mujeres La Esperanza A.C. Directora: Hna. Ana Krause: (638) 102-0869 anaycruz@live.com From. Blvd. Samuel Ocaña, turn north at sign on Pto. Ensenada. Go 10 blicks and the Women's center will be on your left, just before the last cross street.
YOUTH SPORTS FOUNDATION Rick Busa: rbusa1972@gmail.com Promotes youth sports in Puerto Peñasco. Donations of sports equipment, uniforms, etc. always welcome. Call for sports schedule and come out to watch the kids play.
36
The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
BARB’S DOG RESCUE NEWSLETTER HAPPY NEW YEAR
By Bo & Linda Bernard
W
Frequently Asked Questions
e always think the best way to start a new year is to answer the questions we are most frequently asked. 1. Why are you always asking for dog food?
At any given time, there are as many as 350 dogs at Barb’s. It takes 120 pounds of puppy kibble, 200 pounds of adult kibble, 48 cans of wet food, and a large box of dog treats to feed them each day. That works out to 43,800 pounds of puppy chow, 73,000 pounds of adult chow, 17,520 cans of wet food, and 365 boxes of dog treats a year, not including the puppy formula, boxes of rice, and breasts of chicken and vegetables used to care for abandoned puppies too young for kibble. 2. How much does it cost to adopt a dog?
At Barb’s there is never a fee for adoption. Adopted dogs have had their shots and have been spade or neutered. All are fed, housed, and provided medical care and support until adopted. These costs are not passed on, but donations are always welcomed. 3. Is it difficult to take an adopted dog across the border?
Not at all. Barb provides immunization records for all adopted dogs. Immunized dogs can come and go freely across both borders, but, like your own passport, you should always have that proof of immunization available.
4. Why is a monetary donation better than a bag of food?
Barb’s receives discounts from local vendors for food and medication, so we can do more with a dollar. Additionally, at any given time, we will be shorter on some supplies than others. Monetary donations allow us to purchase what we need at that moment.
5. Why is Barb’s particular about the kind of dog food donated?
Dogs get used to what they eat. A change in their diets can create digestive problems, especially with puppies. Finicky eaters may not try something new for several feedings. Consistency is always better, so, if you want to donate food, we prefer Kirkland’s adult kibble, puppy kibble, and high-quality canned food found locally at Welton’s or Purina
Pedigree adult and puppy kibble from Sam’s Club. 6. Other than food, what else do you need?
We always need gently used bath towels to line the dogs’ beds, crates, and houses. In the winter, baby and small child size blankets and dog sweaters of all sizes are especially appreciated. And, as you might imagine, we go through a lot of paper towels, puppy pads, bleach, and antibacterial wipes. We also need volunteers. Puppies need socialization. Dogs need to be fed. Visitors need to be greeted and shown around. And there are always puppies that need to be fostered or socialized through interaction with humans. There is currently a shortage of high-quality canned dog food locally. We need adult and puppy canned food for our nursing mommas, pups and adults with issues. The food must be poultry, seafood or vegetable to cross the border, and you are limited to 50 pounds. Lastly, we are physically out of space, which limits the number of dogs we can take into The Rescue. Because we are limited in the number of border crossings we can make, anyone returning to Arizona that has space in their car to deliver one or more dogs to their new owners can help us create space for the many other dogs in need of Barb’s care. 2020 Bright Spots for Barb’s Dob Rescue We were able to place over 2500 puppies and adult dogs even with the restrictions brought on by Covid-19. An average of 350 dogs of all breeds, ages, and sizes were provided daily food, medical care, and shelter. We survived the lockdown with a make-do staff of three. We survived a water shortage during some of the summer’s hottest weeks. And last, but by no means least, we were able to purchase a “new” used van, one with AC in the back (for the first time) to provide the dogs a safer ride to the border. All of this was made possible by donations made by you. Thank you. Thank you, too, to all of our volunteers who generously give of their time and love to support our mission. And a special Thank You to our generous benefactors who provided “matching funds” opportunities throughout the year. Our wishes for the happiest of New Years go out to all. And before you ask, yes, we will be asking for “dog food” again next month.
Please visit us online at http://www.facebook.com/BarbsDogRescue or our website: www.BarbsDogRescue.org or Barb’s Mexico cell: (638) 114-1659 or U.S. cell: (602) 774-1578 Email: barbsdogrescue@gmail.com
rockypointtimes@yahoo.com • find us on facebook • follow us on twitter • www.rptimes.com
37
38
The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
Is This Your Year to Buy Property in Paradise?
By Gretchen Corpe Ellinger, Charter Member, A.M.P.I. Chapter 51 Puerto Peñasco
I
f the answer is a resounding “Yes!” then the time has come for you to learn about A.M.P.I., the Mexican Association of Real Estate Professionals, or in Spanish, the Asociación Méxicana de Profesionales Inmobiliarios. A sister organization to National Association of Realtors, or NAR, in the U.S.A., members are united by a vision of trust and cooperation, and are guided by, and pledge to follow, a rigorous code of ethics. A.M.P.I. is a national organization that has chapters in all of Mexico’s 32 states and the Federal District. Local chapters operate within the Bylaws and Code of Ethics of A.M.P.I., and each augments those statutes to bring them into compliance with state and local laws. In existence since 1952, A.M.P.I. provides expertise to local, state and national authorities as they grapple with Mexico’s growing real estate and tourism industries. Puerto
Peñasco’s A.M.P.I. Chapter 51 was instrumental in bringing real estate laws and licensure to Sonora, the first state in the Republic of México to require real estate agents to have licenses. Additional to ethics, A.M.P.I. is devoted to education of the community about local real estate practices and market conditions, as well as to the education of local real estate professionals. A.M.P.I. Chapter 51 partners with the State of Sonora Department of Economy to provide a 120-hour course that prepares agents to obtain their required state real estate licenses.
To the great benefit of real estate clients, A.M.P.I. provides a multiple listing service, which assists real estate professionals and their clients with providing not only property listings, but also statistics and trends that help with decision making related to their real estate goals and desires. A.M.P.I. is an organization of real estate professionals. In addition to agents, A.M.P.I. welcomes real estate-related professionals such as attorneys, transaction coordinators, appraisers, inspectors, and builders, all of whom pledge to adhere to the same high standards as outlined by the A.M.P.I. Code of Ethics and the Standards of Practice. Buying a home, a lot, a business, an income property - any real estate - is an adventure at best. Doing so in a foreign country adds an additional layer of challenges, and wise buyers seek the assistance of a talented, LICENSED, real estate agent. While real estate licenses are required in Sonora, enforcement is spotty, so ask the agent with whom you are considering working if s/ he is licensed; if s/he says yes, ask to see the license! Membership in A.M.P.I. is not required by the state
but is highly recommended so that agents are closely connected with continuing education, and with other agents with whom they can work for the best service to the client. As previously mentioned, A.M.P.I. members have high standards, and clients have recourse if they are unhappy with their representation, AS LONG AS they are working with A.M.P.I. members. Again, ask! If the agent or other professional you are considering is not an A.M.P.I. member, you might want to keep looking. You can check A.M.P.I. membership by going to the A.M.P.I. website at RockyPointyAMPI.com, and look under the members tab. There you will find the names, companies, photos and contact information for all A.M.P.I. members, including the officers. Other tabs will reveal information about Rocky Point real estate in general, joining A.M.P.I., the Code of Ethics and Bylaws, and ethics complaint forms. This might be the first, and most important, step in your real estate in Paradise journey! Happy New Year from A.M.P.I. - we hope to meet you in 2021!
rockypointtimes@yahoo.com • find us on facebook • follow us on twitter • www.rptimes.com
39
40
The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
More Valuable Than Gold By Rosarie Salerno
H
ave you ever asked yourself what was the opportunistic motivation for Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand of Spain, in 1492 CE, to fund Christopher Columbus' ocean voyage to the west? In one word "spices"; the most valuable commodity in the world, at that time, equal to if not more valuable than gold. Prior to the invention of refrigeration, herbs and spices were used to preserve food. They were also used to flavor food and wine, make perfume, used for incense, and for the treating and prevention of diseases. The revenues derived from spice was a driving force in the global economy, as oil is today. Wars were fought over control of trade routes; civilizations rose and fell, and thousands of years of cultural interactions had their bases in the lucrative spice trade. The history of spice and herbs spans millenniums. Evidence has been found in petroglyphs substantiating its importance as far back as the Neolithic stone age. Reference to the spice trade is mentioned in the Hebrew Bible, in the story of Joseph with the coat of many colors. According to the book of Genesis, Joseph's jealous brothers sold him to spice merchants who were traveling to Egypt. Circa 400 BCE, Hippocrates, the father of medicine, catalogued medicinal uses for over 400 herbs and spices; many of them are still in use today. Most spices came from China, India and Africa. The trade route was called the Silk Road and covered over 4,000 miles in a combination of land and sea treks east to purchase the precious products. Spice had to be transported overland by camel caravans, making it very expensive. Many middlemen made great fortunes. The country that controlled the spice trade controlled the world. The Arabs controlled the Silk Road from 3000 BCE to about 200 BCE. The Roman Empire took control of the trade from about 200 BCE to around 1200 CE. Roman traders sailed across
the Indian Ocean from Egypt to India for pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and ginger. It is said that during the 300s CE, Rome, when attacked by Barbarian; the Romans negotiated with the invaders to leave the city unharmed in exchange of a tribute for an enormous amount of pepper. Muslim traders controlled the trading routes throughout the Indian Ocean between 1000 and 1500 CE. In Europe, circa the 1300s CE, nutmeg was so valuable that a pound was of equal value to seven oxen. During the Middle Ages, a pound of ginger was equal to one sheep and a pound of cloves would buy seven sheep. Sometime during the 1400s CE, the Ottoman Turks controlled the roads to the east. The Ottomans, hated the Europeans resulting in cutting them off from traveling to India and China. By 1453 CE, Arabs completely took over the trading from Venice, the main western market at that time. The prices were so high by then that only the very rich could afford to buy them. It became evident that Europe needed an alternate route to India. Spanish and Portuguese explorers set sail. Vasco de Gama, from Portugal, was the first European to sail around the southern tip of Africa all the way to India, reaching Calcutta in May of 1498. Christopher Columbus persuaded the monarchs of Spain to underwrite his plans. He believed that India lay just across the Atlantic Ocean and would reach it by sailing west. Thinking that the journey would fail, the King and Queen only agreed to give him 10% of the profits. Unfortunately, he bumped into the Americas instead and called the native people Indians, believing he had successfully arrived in India. Fortunately for Spain, this accident spurred their world domination, making them the richest country in the world. Herbs and Spices are still very useful today, but not nearly as expensive. India is known for the holistic health care system of Ayurveda; its practitioners employ the use of herbs and spices. The system must work since they have been doing it for over 5,000 years.
For all your Bank Trust and Real Estate needs please contact me
Rosarie Salerno Consulting
rosariesalerno@hotmail.com (520)777-0018 (520)822-7507
rockypointtimes@yahoo.com • find us on facebook • follow us on twitter • www.rptimes.com
41
42
The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
rockypointtimes@yahoo.com • find us on facebook • follow us on twitter • www.rptimes.com
Tony’s Mystic Whale Tours The Experience of a Lifetime By Lannette Phipps
(Me petting a calf – see it looking at me!?)
L
ooking through photos (for this article) of my trip to Guerrero Negro last February, I got super excited…again! Every time I talk about the trip, or think about the trip, I get so excited. I’ve been waiting almost a year to get back to Laguna Ojo de Liebre with Tony Ballesteros, owner and operator of (Tony’s) Mystic Whale Tours, to have amazing interactions with grey whales. (Not CAPping grey whales just takes something away from their awesomeness so, from here on out, they will be Grey Whales to heck with English language rules!) Just look at this first photo of Candy and I and this brand-new baby! OMG! How incredible is that? A month or two old and this giant little baby is letting us pet it – in its natural habitat. Rest assured that its mother is not far away – most likely just under our panga - ready to roll us if we do anything sketchy…lucky for us, we didn’t. It was absolutely amazing how trusting they were. Such an incredible trip!
(Mary Snyder petting a Grey Whale)
These crusty-looking, but surprisingly-soft gentle giants grow to be anywhere from 49’ to 60’…that’s a semi-truck, without the truck, but still! Imagine a panga sitting on top of a semi… ah, now you get it. Now picture 8 semi’s and one panga…pretty awesome and scary as heck, right? And they can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, though I’m pretty sure my “Blanca” was tippin’ at 100,000 lbs. She was absolutely huge and quite the a-hole, but more about her later. Oh, btw, the cover photo on this month’s RPTimes was taken by Mary Snyder of Encantame Towers, and more about her later too. We actually had 8 of these guys around our panga at one point on our trip. Oh, yeah, our weekend trip that turned into a week because we didn’t want to come home…more about that later as well.
(Tony Ballesteros – The Whale Whisperer)
I can already tell that this story is going to be a lot of babbling and repetition about how amazing the whales are, and it’s going to go on for months so, I’ll tell you right now, this is an experience you definitely want to have, and the season goes from January 13th through April 13th, so call Tony at (520) 249-2337 or email him at tonyballesteros2@msn.com, website www.mysticwhaletours. com. He’s a self-proclaimed “Whale Whisperer” and anyone who has been with him knows he speaks the truth. And besides being the Whale Whisperer, he is a prophotographer, so you get awesome photos as well.
for yourself, and I’m pretty sure you will come to the same conclusion.
(Mary Snyder, Me and Mario after breakfast at Ojo de Liebre Lagoon)
Allrighty, onto a little history thanks to Wikipedia, UNESCO, Google and Tony…I’m going to skip the part about this dude, Charles Scammon, in the early 1850s killing whales, by the hundreds in the bay – not a fan - so you can read about that all on your own. But there are multiple references to him when you look up the origin of the name, Ojo de Liebre: Scammon was slaughtering so many whales, back in the day, that the lagoon water turned bright red just like a jack rabbit’s eye. (There are even wines of the same name, just FYI.) Tony says that from the satellite view of the lagoon it looks like the eye of a jackrabbit, and he also confirms the bloody red water story. I do believe he would rather not retell the latter because he loves the whales so much and doesn’t want to think of the brutality – nor do I. It’s hard to imagine anyone killing them after you look into their eyes and touch them – though I imagine Scammon never did that. There is something wonderful about a baby (or mama) rolling onto its side and just laying there gazing up at you while you rub their rubbery skin – especially the babies – so innocent and beautiful. Amazing that they even trust humans anymore. Perhaps I am projecting my human emotions onto the ocean creatures, but go out there and experience it
Okay, onto the mating and birthing of Grey Whales – or reproduction and wintering as UNESCO so beautifully states. There are these two lagoons (San Ignacio and Ojo de Liebre ) on the Pacific Ocean side of Baja where Grey Whales go, year after year, like clockwork, to mate, birth and teach their babies. These lagoons are contained within the Vizcaino Biosphere Reserve, which is Mexico’s largest protected area. According to UNESCO (El Vizcaino Biosphere Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the protection of these winter breeding grounds – these two lagoons in particular, has been paramount in the recovery of this species, after the near-extinction of commercial whaling. At one time there were as few as 2,000 Grey Whales left. The depth, temperature, nutrients, and salinity make these two lagoons ideal mating, breeding and calving grounds. El Vizcaino Biosphere is also home to numerous marine mammals as well as an ecowonderland: Bottlenose Dolphins, California Sea Lions, Harbor Seals, northern elephant seal, blue whale, as well as green and loggerhead sea turtles, fishies, birds…Brant Goose, osprey and crustaceans all hang out here; and wetlands, marshes, CON'T ON PAGE 44
43
44 CON'T FROM PAGE 42
sand dunes, desert, mangroves and halophytes all exist here as well. (Side note: Halophytes are actually pretty interesting – not only do the help with erosion, but they provide shelter, and you can actually eat them…I’ve chomped on some along our beaches, super salty obviously, but some restaurants around town have actually done a decent job at serving them as a garnish/side dish. And I only know about them because I used to date a guy that travelled around the world, including Puerto Peñasco, teaching indigenous people how to grow them…if you’re reading this, Hi Randy lol.)
(Tony Ballesteros and Mario Marco Zepeda at the Grey Whale Skeleton at Ojo de Liebre Lagoon)
Ojo de Liebre Lagoon, according to the site’s information placard by their whale skeleton, is 5.6 miles wide, 2.5 miles long and 16 to 39 ft. deep, though deeper channels run through there and Tony knows the secret spots where the super deep channels are and where the water is constantly churning with activity. These deep areas are “teaching” areas while the “touristy” areas, in the calmer and closer waters, where all the other pangas stay, were more of socialization grounds for babies. Tony told us that the bay’s entrance is guarded by the male Grey Whales – they patrol and keep Orca’s (killer whales) out of the lagoon and away from the newborns. Even though a Grey whale is born at about 5 meters long and 500 kilos, it’s still a tasty snack for an Orca. The baby Grey Whales (calves) drink approximately 18.5 gallons of milk a day and stay with their mother’s for about one year – or until they are able to fend for themselves. They are born with dark skin and
The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
are super smooth and some have a wrinkly “nose”. Their skin color does change over time and they acquire barnacles or sea lice and other scuffs and knicks as they migrate some 6,000 miles from the Bering Sea to the Sea of Cortez. The adult Grey Whales mate in the lagoons of Baja, California and then return the next year to give birth. There are 3 whales involved in the mating act, but we won’t talk about that – Google will tell you need to know. Let’s just say you will see some “Pink Floyd’s” and you can ask Tony what that means. While looking up information about the area I came across an article written by Jack Goodman in 1975 for the New York Times about his 7-day trip from San Diego to Ojo de Liebre and San Ignacio. He said at the time there were between 9,000 and 10,000 Grey Whales making their annual migration (so conservation efforts have certainly paid off). His article also says that around 1973 the Mexican Government had closed the lagoon, hoping to build a road to the bay from the Baja California Highway 1 so their ship was not able to enter, but San Ignacio was kept open and that is where they spent 2 days. He goes on to say that, “…the dinghies took each passenger for two or three whale runs of an hour’s duration each day, which is enough to soak most clothing and nearly every camera, but is scarcely enough to satiate avid whalechasing appetites”. I don’t think I could’ve said it better myself…once you get that first touch – even the first glimpse, you’re hooked. Exactly the reason my weekend trip turned into a week. We didn’t get that wet, but every day was a new experience that left you wanting more and more. Okay, I’ll leave you with these last photos of our flight from Puerto Peñasco to Guerrero Negro and continue Part II in next month’s edition. I have some good stories to tell! Go with Tony and get to Guerrero Negro in 1 hour and be whale petting that same day! He arranges the flight,
accommodations, dinner, private whale tours and you have your own personal photographer – what could be more perfect? Plus you get some swag and the experience of a lifetime. Check out the top of this article and contact Tony to book your trip this year.
Our own private airplane taking off from Peñasco
Me (with Mary Snyder) seeing how small our plane was. Super smooth ride. Not a bump on the entire trip. Loved our pilot!
Flying over Bird Island in the Sea of Cortez
Flying over Baja, California on our way to Guerrero Negro on the Pacific Ocean
Flying over the Mayan Palace – pretty sure this was Mary’s photo, as are a lot of these, but I’ll happily claim credit for all!
rockypointtimes@yahoo.com • find us on facebook • follow us on twitter • www.rptimes.com
45
46
The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
rockypointtimes@yahoo.com • find us on facebook • follow us on twitter • www.rptimes.com
(a 501 © non-profit Corporation)
By Nancy Phelan AKA “The Pack Leader”
"Making Rocky Point a better place to be an animal" Quote By Lannette Phipps
N
ancy and “The Gang” would like to wish everyone a wonderful New Year!!! Call Nancy for information on making a donation at 602 412 3932 or 383 1012. You can mail checks made out to AACORP to PO Box 1031, Lukeville, AZ 85341 or donate through Paypal on our Web Page www.rpaac.org or through our donation button on Facebook “Animal Adoption Center of Rocky Point”. You can email me at nancy_phelan@ yahoo.com. The center has had many hundreds if not thousands of wonderful stories over the years. One that is especially fitting to print at this time of year is the story of “Ginny”. This story stills brings tears to my eyes. The Miracle of Ginny It was a Sunday morning on November 1st, the day of the Angels, when all of Mexico celebrates the lives of all the children that have passed to the other side. November 2nd is the: Day of the Dead” when the Mexican people pay tribute to the adults that have passed. Many of my friends were headed to church that Sunday morning and services with Tab Grey on this day “Day of the Angels”. Carolyn was the first one to see the skinny black dog as she was leaving the Sonoran Sky Resort on her way to Tabs services. She saw the shadow of a black dog leaning against the building. After services she searched for the dog but could not find her. She thought of the dog all during the night. Was the dog hiding or waiting for someone?
Another friend Candace and her hubby John Garvey were leaving Puerta Privada for services but did spot the dog after the service. She was being dragged by a rope tied around her neck by the guard at the Sonoran Sky. He had been told to remove the dog from the property. The resort had called the local pound but they had not shown up to retrieve the dog. (They do not work on Sunday.) Candace went into Puerta Privada and asked several people for help or what she could do for the dog. Someone handed her a copy of the Rocky Point Times with the information for Animal Adoption Center of Rocky Point. Candace tried calling the center but kept reaching another number, Candy was babbling on about this precious dog to the person on the other end of the phone when the voice on the other end said “Candy is that you? This is your sister in California? Candace hung up and followed the map to the Animal
Adoption Center. A group of Candy and her friends pulled up with this dog in the back of the truck. I have never seen a dog so close to death but still alive. As they handed me the dog I said “Her name is Ginny!”. I took Ginny into the house and put her on a warm bed and applied honey to her lips and tried to hydrate her but her skin was stuck to her bones. I put a heater near her bed and watched as several cats covered her with their bodies. Ginny had such fear and pain in her eyes but by morning she was bright eyed and actually smiling. I called my daughter Penelope who is a Vet Tech at Sonora Veterinarian Hospital and after some conversation I was told to get Ginny to the hospital immediately. I knew my friend Karen Gosnell was leaving for Phoenix that morning and when I called she was loading her vehicle for the trip but stated “Of course I will take Ginny to Phoenix” Karen said that she talked to Ginny during the trip. On their arrival the Doctor and Techs were waiting for Ginny to arrive. When they removed Ginny from the car they realized that Ginny had died during the trip. Dr. Ruzzio who had been waiting to take Ginny into her care told Penelope that she had never seen such a big smile on a dog – white teeth shining. Later that day Candy came by and we cried together over the loss of a sweet Rocky Point dog named Ginny. Candy confided to me that she was so upset when she first saw Ginny that she actually saw her mother’s face when she looked
into Ginny’s eyes. Her mother had passed several years before and her sister and she had not talked since their Mom’s death. As we all know how tragedy affects families and we all deal with death differently. When Candy made the phone call to try to reach the Animal Center and got the wrong number – the person on the other end of the phone was Ginny – her sister in California. How did that number get on her Mexican phone? And what made me name the dog “GINNY:? The same spelling! Ginny was only 4 or 5 months old but died with such a beautiful smile on her face. How many lives were touch that day by a beautiful little black dog named Ginny? During this Holiday season if you have a friend or relative that you need to connect with please do so and let the legend and miracle of Ginny live on in many more hearts. Peace and love to all our animal friends- Nancy and “The Gang” including “Ginny”. www.rpaac.org Mexico (011-52-638) 383-1012 Phoenix (602) 412-3932 Tucson (520) 407-6594 AACORP INC 501 (c) 3 Tax Exempt nancy_phelan@yahoo.com nancy@rpaac.org AACORP PO Box 1031, Lukeville, AZ 85341
47
48
The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255