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The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
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The Rocky Point Times Newspaper is Puerto Peñasco’s #1 Tourist Newspaper, family owned and operated since 1993 in Rocky Point, Sonora, Mexico, and written entirely in English! We are, and have always been, dedicated to helping the community in which we live, as well as promoting our city and bringing tourism to Rocky Point. We are a TOURIST NEWSPAPER dedicated to promoting tourism!
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MONTHLY CIRCULATION/DISTRIBUTION Our newspapers are hand delivered in Puerto Peñasco, Mexico and in the U.S. to Lukeville, Ajo, Gila Bend, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Peoria, Prescott, and Tempe, Arizona. We bulk mail to over 600 monthly subscribers. SUBSCRIPTIONS Subscriptions are bulk mailed from Lukeville, AZ every month. A 1 Yr. Subscription is $35 (12 issues). Please send a check with your name and address to: S. O’Hare, PO Box 887, Lukeville, AZ 85341. ADVERTISING IN THE ROCKY POINT TIMES We offer display and classifieds ads. LOW Ad prices are in USD, charged per month, and do not include I.V.A. Contracts available. AD DEADLINE 10th of the month, preceeding publication CLASSIFIEDS ADS $15 USD for 25 words • 20¢ per word thereafter MEXICO OFFICES: Pino Suarez No. 124, off of Calle 13 Puerto Peñasco, Sonora, Mexico 83550 C. P. U.S. MAILING ADDRESS Please send correspondence to address PO Box 887, Lukeville, Arizona 85341 TELEPHONE & FAX from the U.S. dial (011-52-638) 383-6325 Local dial 383-6325; Fax: 383-5193 from the U.S. dial (480) 463-6255 EMAIL ADDRESS & WEBSITE rockypointtimes@yahoo.com www.rptimes.com FACEBOOK See our Facebook Page at Rocky Point Times Newspaper CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Anita K., Barb Mumaug, Cap ‘n Greg, Steve Franklin, Eddie Wharez, Gretchen Ellinger, Joe Houchin, Marcia Diane, Mark Paliscak, Rita Pizarro, Rosarie Salerno, Nancy Phelan, Sandy Spain. ROCKY POINT TIMES STAFF Tom O’Hare - Editor/Publisher Sandra O’Hare - Managing Editor Lannette Phipps - Graphic Artist Alicia Grajeda - Administrative Executive Marco Zepeda - Sales and Accounts Executive Beatriz Lumbreras - Freelance Graphic Artist Manny Sánchez Radical Gravity Media Web + Social + Video www.RadicalGravity.com PRINTING The Rocky Point Times is printed in Mexico PHOTO & ARTICLE SUBMISSION Upbeat, fun, and interesting articles and photos always welcome. Please include an SASE if you would like it returned. Email or SnailMail your article/photo to us. Please include your contact info. in the event we need to reach you. Feel free to contact us prior to sending your items to make sure they are in the right format. The Rocky Point Times reserves the right not to print any article or photo, and to edit content as the Editor sees fit. We do not guarantee placement, but do make every effort, so please note any special requests you may have. 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.
By Lannette Phipps This month’s cover photo is by Mario Marco Zepeda, our star account executive. He took the photo when we were in Old Port at Pedro’s, which is at fish markets on the water. He has been searching, and trying to capture the perfect shot for a year now, and he hit the ‘nail on the head’ with this one. ALSO, in this issue is Mario’s very first attempt at writing. We didn’t even know he was thinking about it. Be sure to check Mario’s story about our annual Cabalgata, just look for the photos of the horses. Where to start? Where to start? So many things going on in Rocky Point, so much has happened and so many things coming up – this is getting to be a full time job keeping up! We didn’t get into this business to work all of the time, as evidenced in Tom’s July 1996 Editorial. I do believe that Sandy’s Birthday celebrations that year were some of the most memorable times – it was 2+ weeks of friends, family, ATV’s (ATC’s back then), partying, hitting the beach, boating to San Felipe, train station tacos, Playa Bonita Happy Hours, JJ’s Cantina cherry bombs, lunch and drinks at Manny’s, dinner at Margaritavilla and sunsets at La Casa del Capitan. I could go on, but a lot of you remember those days and still have quite a few of your own. Reading old Editorials brings back some great memories of fun and people and places no longer here.
We found a treasure at the bookstore, Shakespear Librerias, in Old Port next to the Thrifty Ice Cream, across from the church. A BRIEF HISTORY OF PUERTO PEÑASCO by our friend Guillermo (Memo) Munro Palacio. It was published in 2007, and Mom had seen it years ago, then a friend ‘loaned’ her a copy, and we found a supply. We posted on our Facebook Page and many copies have sold in the last week, so hurry over.
Okay, wow so here we are in July now and we are very much looking forward to the 5th Annual Casino Night for charity at the Sonoran Sky on July 4th starting at 7:00 PM. Break out the ball gowns and black ties (or the Levis and cowboy boots) and come have a great night of local casino action. It will be lots of fun. There is no dress code… you should know that by now! Tickets are $35 and include a buffet dinner, raffle ticket and $300 in chips. Feel free to deposit them in my pocketbook on your way in because I am taking down the house! Woohoo! Craps anyone? I know a lot of you come down for 4th of July celebration and just can’t help stopping at the fireworks stands around town. Make sure you give Red Cross a donation at their offices on Fremont, or when you see them on the road, so that they can come fix you when you blow something off. Just a warning to be smart and be careful and watch your children and pets. Fireworks do not always shoot up in the air like they are supposed to, and the fuse doesn’t always give you enough time to run a safe distance, so be smart and be safe. For those of you who bring pets, please remember that they are in a strange place and with all the noise that fireworks make they sometimes want to bolt when they are scared. Having the luxury, most of the time, to leave Mexico on any day of the week, I have no idea why I picked a Sunday. And it wasn’t even the Sunday after Roger Clyne and The Peacemakers took over the town
– that was a Monday I left and YES a line at the border. Ugh. Monday was only about a half hour wait while the Sunday was well over an hour in the afternoon. It is time to start planning your trips wisely and come early and stay late or leave before you have a line up at the border. The Sonoyta police are still…years later…cramming traffic into 3 lanes where only 1 exists so those who have been waiting in line for an hour or more get really pissed off when people start riding up the right hand lane cutting traffic. Please know that it is the police (99% of the time) that force traffic to use the shoulder. I can see their logic that making one line into three shortens the traffic through town, but they do not take into consideration line cutting, which most of us do not look kindly upon. I even argued with a policeman, a very friendly one, who wanted me to form a third line. I told him that there wasn’t any room. His response was sure there was…see… as he pointed to the empty spot in front of me. “But”, I said, “then everyone gets mad because we have been waiting so long and you let other people cut in front of us.” He said, “Are you mad?” I said no. And he smiled. Ah, I could’ve choked him. I’m not mad, but the person behind me is livid and I don’t want to be in the middle of lane rage. I do not see them ending this practice anytime soon so don’t be a jackhole and ride the bumper of the person in front of you. Try to merge as best you can. One car goes, one car comes in, one car goes, one car comes in. See?, simple. Yes I get mad too, but I understand it is not the driver’s fault when they are being instructed by the police But once you are in that position try to have consideration for the person to your left who has been in line maybe an hour longer than you. I think you can be kind and merge behind me instead of squeezing in front of me. Oops, I slipped from third to first person there. My bad. Internet is everywhere now so you can check border wait times before you leave Puerto Peñasco by logging onto www.bwt.cbp.gov. As you know already, if you’ve been to Rocky Point in the last month, we have more construction going on north of town where the Coastal Hwy#3 crosses Hwy#8 (a new overpass), some of the streets are being worked on, some are being completed. We have a beautiful new monument going in at the boat launch, on the right, as you enter Old Port, we have new restaurants and shops. Ah, so much to do, so little time. Be safe out there and STAY COOL!
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The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
ADVERTISERINDEX & PHONENUMBERS 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
CALLING FROM THE U.S. Call U.S. & Canada from Mexico Dial 001 + (area code) + 7 digit number 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
dial 01 + area code + 7-digit number Mexico businesses outside of Peñasco are listed as 01 + area code + phone number in this Index.
LOCAL CELLULAR PHONES
from a land line dial 044 + 638 + 7-digit number from local cell to cell dial 638 + 7-digit number Local cellular phones start with 044+638 in this index. U.S. cells may vary - check with your service provider. AT&T Viva Mexico Plan works best.
CELL PHONES OUTSIDE OF PP
to dial a long distance cell from a local PP cell dial 045 + city code + 7-digit number to dial PP from a long distance MX cell dial 045-638 + 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.
LET OUR ADVERTISERS KNOW that YOU found them in the
ROCKY POINT TIMES NEWSPAPER
INDEX A
A bit of Shangrila RV........................480-225-6546 Acqua Spa..........................388-5382/623-207-9275 Ajo Chamber of Commerce.....................520-387-7742 Ajo Plaza..............................................520-387-5044 Ajo Print Shop......................................520-387-6858 Ajo Satellite Sales..............................520-387-4846 Aleman, Victor................................044-638-105-7839 Amazon Window Covering.....................623-925-8199 American Legion...........................................388-8841 Ana Seguros...........................................619-691-7747 Anchor Storage....044-638-102-0049/602-512-1761 Aqua Grande Towing.............383-5770/(520) 232-2149 Arizona Realty........................................520-387-8787 Art Stop & Plaza Gallery............................520-387-6858 Attorney At Law Maria Luisa Ortiz Hinojoza....388-0606
B Babycatchers and Company....................602-769-2615 Bacanora Grill........................................638-109-7235 Baja Autoservices...................................638-383-4925 Balboas Rest..................................................383-5155 Beauty Design Studio by Gloria.......................383-8500 Biosfera Dry Cleaners.....................................383-1667 Bonita RV Park...............................................383-1400 Bórquez, Ricardo, Atty............388-6110/520-407-6756 Brooks, Dee...................................................383-3919 Bryan’s.....................................................388-5365 Burrito Express..............................................383-8460
C Candy Cake.........................................638-383-2673 Canvas................................................638-383-1161 Casa de Carolina Rentals...............................383-5482 Chef Mickey Medina.......388-6844/044-638-386-4736 Chochoy Veterinary.......................................383-2338 C.H.O.P.P.S............................................480-648-7689 Clínica Dental Fernández...............044-638-112-6600 or...........................................................520-284-0277
Coldwell Banker by the Sea...388-8999/602-425-5133 Colins Cantina...............................................382-8020 Contra Plagas...............383-8787/044-638-110-1625
D D’Lucy Spa.................383-1471/044-638-105-8993 DDS Fernandez.........................................383-8550 Del Mar Charters........................................383-2802 Dental Enciso............388-9100/044-638-105-3064 Desert Diamond Casino........................866-DDC-WINS Dr. Andres Sidhartha Hindu P..388-5382/623-207-9275 Dr. Grijalva, D.D.S...........................................383-3434 Don Julio Bar & Grill......................................388-0056 Duke’s Restaurant-Bar.................044-638-104-0338 or...................................................044-638-380-6650
E Ecofun Rentals.........................................388-9699 Eddie Wharez.....................383-8633/602-324-9328 El Rapidin...................................................388-6775
F Family of God................................................383-3480 Farmacias De Descuento..............383-3131/388-8280 Fish.............................................044-638-110-7137 Five Senses Spa...................................638-112-1652 Fortaleza del Sol........................044-638-110-9519 Francis, Jonni..............................044-638-112-1197 Frenchy’s.......................................044-638-690-1472 Friendly Dolphin.......................................383-2608
G Gaby Salon Unisex.......383-3096/044-638-100-8641 Galeria del Mar Bermejo...........................383-3488 Galeria Luis y Gaby.......................................383-7174 Garden Art..........................................520-577-2728 German Brats..............................044-638-110-4970 German Osorio Design & Build Studio..520-303-6188 Gift Shop & Gallery..............................520-387-6858 Gila Bend Title and Registration Services..928-683-2577 Giuseppi’s Espresso...................................383-5181 Glorias Beauty Salon.................................383-5075 Golf Course at the Mayan Palace...............383-GOLF Gracida, Roberto.........................520-232-2165 or......................................011-52-622-226-2200 Gretchen Ellinger...............383-1425/602-317-3881 or................................................044-638-384-0458 Guardian Title and Escrow..............044-638-386-1445 or.........................................................623-910-2930
H Hacienda del Sol Furniture......388-0545/602-903-2112 Head Out to Rocky Point Shuttle Ser vice U.S. Toll Free.............866-443-2368/602-971-0166 Healthy Kitchen...........638 1127837/638-383 8393 Hidrogas (antes Tomza Gas)....................383-5650 Hotel Viña del Mar................................383-0100 or.....................................................602-606-7768 U.S. Toll Free...........................01-800-560-2123
I-J-K Imagen Oral..................................................388-7953 InnSuites Hotels and Suites U.S. Toll Free......................................888-INNSUITES International Insurance....................877-679-7900 Intrepid.............................................638-383-2192 JJ’s Cantina...................................................383-2785 Jerry’s Banquettes............................638-115-0983 John Hibbert Realty Ex...........................638-380-5112 John Witt Realty Ex.................................623-523-2180 Joyeria Max...........................................388-5512 Kaffeehaus.............................................388-1065 Kord’s Auto Care...............................520-387-6962 Kyle Wood..............................................480-297-8079
L La Casa del Capitan Restaurant....................383-5698
La Cita Café...............................................383-2270 La Fondita...............................................383-8384 La Siesta Motel................................520-387-6569 La Spa de Peñasco.................................382-8111 Laguna Shores Golf & Country Club..................383-4670 U.S. Toll Free.........................................800-513-1426 Latitude 31...............................................383-4311 Lighthouse Restaurant, The........................383-2389 L.C.P. Cristian Felix..................................602-464-3365 Living Stones Ministry...........................480-243-8452 Lloyds Rocky Point Shuttle And Tours............................ .............................(623) 551-1616/1-866-568- 9001 Long Realty.......................388-0009/602-281-4288 Lowery’s Installation.........382-5095/928-474-3157 Lucky’s Cantina.........................................383-8420 Lugos Vidrieria..........................................388-8387
M Made in Puerto Peñasco................044-638-380-8233 Madre del Mar........................................520-407-6394 Manny’s Beach Club......................383-3605/383-3215 Mar de Cortez Rentals....................................388-8747 Mare Blu Ristorante.......................................383-0605 María Romero...................................(928) 683-2577 or.................................................01-800-560-2123 Mayan Palace Golf Course........................383-GOLF Max’s Cafe..................................................383-1011 Max Jeweler...............................................388-5512 Mermaid’s Market.................................388-5004 Mexican Beach Developers.......................383-6099 or.....................044-638-384-7145/520-777-0018 Mexican Vistas Co..........382-5400/044-638-384-6445 or...........................................................623-698-0117 Mexico Insurance Center..................1-800-404-1088 Muebles Coloniales....................................383-6670 Muebles Imperiales......................................383-6480 or.......................................................714-395-4117
N-O Nails Center................................................388-0434 Napa Auto (Ajo).................................24 HOUR TOW ....................................(520) 387-4TOW (387-4869) Optica Turati................................................383-4645
P Pablo Realty........................383-8657/602-288-8687 Pane e Vino Restaurant................044-638-105-7455 Pealachi..............................................638-102-1110 Pedro’s Restaurant.......................044-638-105-5166 Peninsula de Cortes Golf Course..................383-GOLF Peñasco Beauty Center...............................383-1086 Peñasco del Sol Hotel Mexico Toll Free................................01-800-614-9484 World Wide Toll Free..........................1-888-683-0067 Peñasco Marine.........................................383-3700 Petals & Perfums.....................................383-5758 Pink Cadillac........................................383-5880 Pizarrro, Rita..............388-8030/044-638-386-5203 Playa Bonita Resort....................383-2586/383-2199 Playa Paloma.......................................480-244-9990 U.S. Toll Free.........................................888-232-8142 Mexico Toll Free..........................01-800-426-6482 Playa Bonita Resort RV Park.......................383-2596 U.S. Toll Free.......................................888-232-8142 Mexico Toll Free.............................01-800-426-6482 Pollo Papago.............................044-638-385-1301 Premium Services...........383-5758/602-476-1187 Pro Services...............383-6161/044-638-113-0446 Puerta Privada......................383-1020/480-445-9200 Puesta del Sol Restaurant..........................383-2586
Q&R Ramos Construcciones..........................638-383-3322 Realty Executives...............383-4699/602-334-4134 Remote Accountant LLC In Rocky Point VOIP...........................630-839-9129 Repeat Performance.........................520-387-4948
Rey del Mar................................................383-5490 Rocky Point Calendar..................see Mexican Vistas Rocky Point Chiropractic....................(638) 386-1306 or.............................................U.S. Cell (480) 263-3242 Rocky Point Cleaning...............................383-7325 Rocky Point Times Newspaper.....................383-6325 or..........................................................480-463-6255 Fax...........................................................383-5193 Roll-A-Shield......................382-5095/928-474-3157
S Salerno, Rosarie..........383-8417/044-638-384-7145 or.......................................................520-777-0018 Sanborns Insurance........U.S. Toll Free 800-222-0158 Sandy Beach Massage....................044-638-384-4418 Sarina Fitness......................................602-999-9727 Satellite Services................................638-103-5317 Satisfied Frog................................638-383-1743 Seaside Window Coverings.........................383-5181 Sea Side Reservations.....383-7795/1-888-262-4508 Servicios Medicos Veterinarios..................383-3344 Shangrila RV Park................................480-225-6546 Skullyz........................................................388-9900 Si Como No! Etc.....................................520-387-7080 Si I Do! Wedding Planners.............................388-8238 Siana Boat Charter.........................044-638-105-5013 Silva, Yolanda Insurance...............................383-6280 Soluciones de Energia Azul .........................388-1114 Sonoran Grill...............................................382-8089 Sonoran Resorts.................................602-476-7511 Sonoran Resorts Sales Consultant Brenda Sabo..............................044-638-105-3157 Su Casa...........................................638-690-1345 Sun Valley Services.....................................383-8891 Sushi Sun Restaurant...................................383-2772 Swann Ophthalmology.......................520-204-1347
T Tapia, Miguel......................................602-266-0225 Tequila Factory..............................................388-0606 Teriyaki Sun...............................................388-7272 Tessoro at Las Conchas................................388-6288 The Print Shop....................................520-387-6858 The Lighthouse Restaurant.........................383-2389 Thunder on The Beach Sports Bar & Restaurant .................................................................388-9605 Tommy Thomas Home Inspections..044-638-110-4728 or.........................................................602-748-4134 Towing Aqua Grande..(638) 383-5770 / (520) 232-2149 Turati Optical..............................................383-4645 Twin Dolphins Real Estate and Rentals......383-3919 or........................................................602-324-7241 T&T International Law Group..............602-465-6556
U-V U.S. Border Movers..................044-638-113-8365 or.............................................480-232-3518 Venshur.................U.S. Toll Free 1-888-524-4107 or........................Mexico Toll Free 01-800-841-3553 Victor Aleman..............................044-638-105-7839 Vidriera Lugo..............................................388-8387 Viña del Mar Hotel............383-0100/602-606-7768 Viva Mexico Taqueria...........................638-104-7252
W Western Outdoor Times......................(480) 947-6219 Wharez, Eddie................383-8633/(602) 324-9328
X-Y-Z Xochitl’s Cafe (Sally’s Cholla Cafe)..................382-5283 Yolanda Silva Insurance................................383-6280 Yummy Salads................................044-638-113-8822 ZaGas.......................................................383-8100 Zuquin Restaurant........................................383-3250 Zuq Deli & Salads.........................................388-5050
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The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
2 FISH Ministry The Two Fish Ministry is a ministry dedicated to feed people of low resources. Men women and children come here from different places as well as here locally. We thank God and all all the wonderful people who contribute to this Ministry that makes it possible for these people to get a plate of food on a daily basis. We just celebrated our 7th anniversary in this Ministry, not a day goes by that we’re not grateful to see so many people be blessed by receiving a hot meal. If you would like to donate to this labor of love with either goods or cash, you may do so at our location on Blvd. Kino, between Ave. Juarez and the Numeros store, you may also call 638-1137260, or 638110-6136, you will reach Noeh or Margarita
CHURCHES Phone Numbers
Assembly of God..........................................................383-3364 Adonai Comunidad Cristiana.......................................383-3865 Grupo Unidad Cristianos de Peñasco..........................383-2240 Peñasco Christian Fellowship.......................................383-4513 Family of God Christian Fellowship.........................383-3480 Jehovah’s Witnesses Kingdom Hall.............................388-6244 Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe.....................................383-2959 Templo La Hermosa...................................................383-7130
EMERGENCY & Important Phone Numbers dial
066 for EMERGENCIES
AirEvac............................................................001-880-321-9522
food, or canned goods which are about to expire.
AIRPORTS International.................................................................383-6097 CITY HALL (Municipal Building) H. Ayuntamiento de Peñasco.....................383-2056/383-2060 CLINICS Clinica San Jose............................................................383-5121 Clinica Santa Fe...........................................383-2447/383-4040 Clinica Santa Isabel (Maternity)...................................383-3645 Clinica Santa Maria.......................................................383-2440 Cruz Roja (Red Cross)...................................................383-2266 Desert Senita Community Health Center..........(520) 387-5651 Gonzalez AmeriClinic....................................................388-7676 Emergency dial...071
Comisión Federal de Electricidad (CFE).......................383-2684 FIRE DEPARTMENT
Emergency dial...068
Departamento de Bomberos.......................................383-2828 FISHIERIES DEPARTMENT Departamento de Pesca...............................................383-2116 Oficina de Pesca, San Diego, CA........................(619) 233-4324 GARBAGE/SANITATION DEPARTMENT Oomislim.......................................................................383-4909
P.S. We need the following: We need 6’ or 8’ TABLES and CHAIRS for a third kitchen. VOLUNTEERS to cook or serve from 1PM to 3PM. PEOPLE to call on markets and fruit and vegetable stands for any kind of
SkyMed Air Ambulance.................................001-866-805-9624
ELECTRIC
GAS (Propane) Hidrogas........................................................................383-5650 Z’Gas..............................................................................383-8284 ZaGas.............................................................................383-8100
“…but Jesus answered; you give them something to
eat”
Mark 6:37
HOSPITALS (See Clinics also) Community...................................................................383-4566 IMSS (Social Security)...................................................383-2870 Municipal......................................................................383-2110 IMMIGRATION............................................................383-2526 MARINE RESCUE (VHF Channel 28) Port Captain..................................................................383-3035 Emergencies dial............................................462 or 627 or 767 POLICE
that DELIVER Benny’s Pizza 383-6001 7 days, 11am-10pm Brother’s Pizza 383-3712 Cheiky’s Pizza 383-3627, Closed Wed. Cocina Express 383-8358 Mon.-Sat. 10am-8pm Sun. 12pm-7pm Domino’s Pizza 383-3838 7 days 10am-8pm El Condor Pizza 388-5383 7 days, 12pm-10pm FEDE’S 383-3419 (044-638) 100-5834 12pm-5pm, Closed Sun.
AIR AMBULANCE (dial within Mexico)
Mendiaz, the Directors of the Two Fish Ministry. Donations by check can also be mailed to Mission Heartbeat, P.O. Box 1032, Lukeville,Az., all donations are tax exempt. We thank you in advance for your donations, may God bless you.
RESTAURANTS
Emergency dial...066
Puerto Peñasco Station..............................383-2626/383-1616 State Judicial Police (Policía Judicial del Estado).........383-2783 PUBLIC SECURITY DEPARTMENT Seguridad Pública Municipal......................383-2626/383-1616 RAILROAD Ferrocarril......................................................................383-2610 RED CROSS Cruz Roja.....................................................................383-2266 SOCIAL SECURITY (IMSS) Instituto Méxicano del Seguro Social.........383-2677/383-2777 TELEPHONE Teléfonos de México.....................................................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.......................................................................383-6080 Organismo Operador....................................................383-6080 Piteco (water tank delivery).........................................383-3315
Figaros Pizza 383-8181
Juniors Restaurant 388-9461 La Cita Cafe 383-2270 La Duela Pizza 388-4414, Closed Wed. La Fondita 383-8384 9am-9pm Sushi Sun 383-2772 TIKI Fresh Foods (044-638) 105-8001 (044-638) 112-0996 9am-9pm, Closed. Sun. Tortas San Luis 388-6405, 7 days, 9am-9pm Yummi Salads (044-638) 113-8822 Zuquin Cakes 383-3250 (044-638) 105-4389 7 days, 9am-5pm
Pet Friendly
HOTELS
If you would like to bring your pet with you to Rocky Point, here are a few places you both will be welcome. Baja Hotel Matamoros and Campeche in El Mirador US dial (602) 559-1705 Local Phone (011-52-638) 383-6878 Local Fax (011-52-638) 383-7676 Fax Website www.hotelbaja.net Email bajahotel@gmail.com ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Bella Vista Condo US dial (775) 287-3830 Email julwitnan@aol.com ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Casa de Carolina Campeche in El Mirador US dial (602) 412-3565 Local Phone (011-52-638) 383-5482 Email cdecpp@prodigy.net.mx Mail: PO Box 589, Lukeville, AZ 85341 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Hotel Viña del Mar In Old Port at the end of the Malecon Local 383-3600 or 383-0100 www.vinadelmarhotel.com ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------La Palapa Condos & Casitas Local 383-3866 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Madre del Mar (with permission) US dial (520) 407-6394 or (520) 303-7530 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Peñasco del Sol Paseo Las Glorias # 1 Mexico Toll Free 01-800-614-9484 Worldwide Toll Free 1-888-683-006 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Seaside Beach Home Rentals Blvd. Benito Juarez, next to Banamex at the north end of town US Toll Free (877) 629-5691 • Local 383-1545 Website www.seasidemexico.com Email seasidebhremails@gmail.com
VETERINARY CARE
Chochoy 383-2338 Guillermo Prieto & Melchor Ocampo Gallo de Oro (044) 638-112-3343 Samuel Ocaña La Posta 383-2574 Simon Morua & Guillermo Prieto
Servicios Medicos Veterinarios 383-3344 Blvd. Sonora & Galeana (west of Josefa)
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The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
PART XIV: Economic Impact of Home Port on Puerto Peñasco By Joe Houchin
As we publish the 14th consecutive issue in our Home Port series, we enter the realm of complexity, conjecture, projection, opinion, even mystery; yet it is a realm we must address from its most critical aspect and in some detail. That is, of course, Infrastructure. We’ve broached the subject in previous issues of this series, but in nowhere near the detail it deserves, nor with the facts from reliable sources as to plans. Now, as it happens, we must wait in limbo until after the June 7 election to sort through all the changes that are sure to take place with the new administration, even if it turns out to be the same party. One thing we know for sure is that the infrastructure planning and scheduling is a long, involved list with varied priorities. Adding the fact that federal funds are being used, it is easy to imagine the nightmare of paperwork that must be overcome. Many argue that this alone makes even the year an inaugural cruise sailing might take place impossible to predict. How does one counter that argument? There are actually several scenarios that could take place to make the argument that predictions are not only possible, but could be surprisingly more accurate than one might think.
One such scenario would be that, as the home port gets closer to completion, our municipal leaders become more excited about the potential for revenue that cruise markets will represent for the city and cause them to strengthen their emphasis on creating ways of expediting the more challenging aspects of infrastructure
requirements such as those heretofore seemingly unanswerable needs for more water and plausible sewage and waste disposal. Another scenario could be as simple as the newly elected officials wanting to establish their reputations as “doers”. And the biggest possibility just might come from the cruise lines themselves. We’ve been assured that talks have been underway with the cruise lines even though one has not been selected or has not decided to launch from our port as yet. We have no published proof of any such talks, but some actions by the pier contractors tend to substantiate communication with the cruise lines. For example, it was a result of suggestions by the cruise lines that the length of the pier was extended to reach deeper waters to accommodate larger ships.
When the cruise line is confirmed to operate from our home port, the motivation and excitement at all levels will reach new heights and infrastructure that has not been completed will be expedited for sure. This is based on historic data from cruise lines in other ports making sure all infrastructure is completed prior to their relocating a ship to our port even if it involved them getting directly involved. Everything that goes into designing and establishing a completely new itinerary is a monumental decision and project of incredible expense and risk on the part of a cruise line and they make that clear from the beginning, as well as keeping close tabs on the progress of all phases of infrastructure installations to completion. We will be going straight to the sources and reporting to you in future issues of our Economic Impact of Home Port on Puerto Peñasco with new and detailed information on the plans and schedules for completing all the infrastructure needed for a home port destination to serve this lucrative industry. Let’s take a walk…
Down by the Pier We love getting updates every month straight from Wendy Winzer, Project Administrator of homeport construction. Contraloria Sonoyta
This month Wendy has been very busy dealing with the arrival of new giant cranes that now total six, placed between the jetty and the cube field. She has also worked with the independent company that has installed a concrete plant adjacent to the cube field which has increased the capability of pouring more cubes every day. Wendy has also dealt, “with several weeks of strong winds and high tides which have made it more difficult to pour rock, however we continue dumping the small cubes and have started placing the 10 ton cubes on the east side of the jetty to protect the small rock,” she tells us.
To date they have poured 20,000 small one ton cubes and 4,600 of the big 10 ton cubes. They have placed 7,400 small cubes and 1,800 big cubes on the jetty. The inclement weather this month has hindered significant progress on lengthening the pier, but they were still able to build up the east side with the large cubes. Wendy was excited to say, “We are on track on our part with the construction of the jetty, still looking at the end of 2016. The dock construction is under separate contract with another contractor and I don’t know at this time how they are doing with their own schedule.” She added, “We are moving forward, with high expectations for the June 7th state government elections!”
This article is brought to you by the Sonoran Resorts Sales Group, www.sonoranresorts.mx, Jim Ringquist, Director of Sales and Marketing.
• Respetar los límites de velocidad. • Usar cinturón de seguridad. • Reportar cualquier intento de abuso de autoridad. • Solicitar identificación de las autoridades que actúan de manera incorrecta. • No dar dinero a las autoridades y solicitar que los trasladen a la Estación de Policía. • Cualquier multa que se page de manera inmediata y antes de las 24 horas tendrá automáticamente el 50% de descuento. • Solicitar hablar con el Juez Calificador. • Si tiene cualquier duda comunicarse con Contraloría Municipal a los números: 6515121172 o 6511017145 o al correo contraloriasocialsonoyta@hotmail. com Suggestions from Contraloria Sonoyta When driving through Sonoyta, on your way to Rocky Point... • Respect posted speed limits • Wear seat belt(s) • Report any attempt of authority abuse • Ask for I.D. when an authority acts incorrectly • Do not give money to authorities, and always ask to be taken to the Police Station • Any fine that is paid immediately (or within 24 hours) at the station, has 50% discount automatically • Ask to talk to the judge in turn. • If you have any doubts please call Contraloria Municipal at (651) 512-1172 or (651) 101-7145 From the USA dial (011-52) before the 651 area code. Or email us at contraloriasocialsonoyta@hotmail. com Get more information on how to report incidents, including a claim form, at http://www.contraloria.sonora.gob. mx/ (be sure to get a physical description and as much information as possible about the officer / vehicle). Operators are available 24/7; we should all carry this contact information with us and use it whenever necessary.
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The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
13th Annual Coastal Cabalgata
By Marco Zepeda
This is my very first article. Now that I work for the Rocky Point Times, I think it’s a challenge but not impossible to do. I would like to tell you about something that has been done for many years here in Rocky Point, and that is also very common in the entire State of Sonora. The Cabalgata also called Horsebackriding or cavalcade.
The main purpose of the Cabalgata is to spend time with nature, using the horse as the medium of transportation, because it moves fast, is less tiring, and crosses rivers, mountains and deserts easily. The Cabalgata is a horsemans’ parade; it’s usually done on a special date, or with a special motive, and sometimes to remember a Saint. This time it was not to remember a
Saint, but to honor my uncle Jose Sergio Jacquez Parra, a well-known rancher and cattle breeder of the region. Sr. Jacquez has dedicated 77 years of his life to the ranch, cattle and has supported this type of event and cowboy rodeos.
This was the 13th Coastal Cabalgata, and it began the morning of Saturday March 18th here in Rocky Point, departing from Blvd. Benito Juarez (The Chamizal), riding towards El Golfo. Alicia and I drove Tom O’Hare’s “locally famous” yellow buggy out to join them. To us, the buggy was less tiring then riding a horse, less sweaty and we didn’t smell like horses. They began riding around 7:30am; the riders were talking, laughing and a few of them enjoying a cold beer. Along the way, family of the riders were making sure they were staying hydrated and gave them drinking water and snacks for the long ride. It was a perfect day, about 80° F. Their first goal was to get to the Sotelo Ranch which is approximately 18 kilometers from Rocky Point, next to the Coastal Highway. This was the meeting point for all the riders of Sonora and Baja California. This exemplified the meaning to the slogan “Uniendo Estados” or
“Uniting States”, as they all met there around 3pm. This is where the fun really began. They had food, drinks and music. One of the organizers, Mario Alvarez Barnett, had made bistek ranchero, barbacoa and beans for about 200 people so, as you can imagine, they had really big pots of food.
On Sunday, the riders were tired from the day before, but they still saddled up their horses early and left Sotelo Ranch towards Rocky Point, this is where we
saw the most riders, because many of them came from Baja California. The city provided police patrol cars for the safety of the riders, horses and anyone driving on the highway. It was all done safely. It was a great thing to see, many men, women and kids riding their horses. It was a fun family friendly event. As everything else, the Cabalgata came to an end, but only after riding thru Old Port and ending at the Explanadita, (on your way to Playa Bonita) where my uncle Sergio Jacquez Parra received his tribute on behalf of the City of Puerto Peñasco and Club Cabalgantes de Puerto Peñasco. Well, this is one of the many events that you might not know about, which take place in this beautiful port. And before I forget, later that night, when everything was over, Alicia and I went for a delicious fish soup (just because I love to eat) with my uncle and the rest of the family. We had a great time, and we can’t wait for the next Cabalgata.
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The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
I’ve been playing guitar since I was 10 years old. That doesn’t necessarily mean I am that much better at it now than when I was 10, but I try hard, and that’s gotta be worth something. Today’s column is about Mexican music. There are three distinct kinds of music in Rocky Point. The first is what you hear from a car that arrives outside your house at 3 AM and sits there until noon. Cars like that are basically speakers on wheels. The men who drive them have very large egos and I suspect not much else of any size, if you get my drift. Anyway, it doesn’t matter what they play because only the bass notes can be heard—all the way to Houston—and can loosen a crown if you don’t grit your teeth hard enough. The second kind of music is played on extremely low quality boom boxes with the volume, treble and bass controls turned to 10 for maximum distortion. If there are words involved, like someone is singing, you wouldn’t know it because
all you hear is something that sounds like 14,000 babies are screaming and shaking cheap rattles at the same time. What is really interesting is the same CD is playing in the boom box as in the car above. The third kind of music is played by roaming street artists. It could be either one or two guys with guitars or a mariachi group. The singles or doubles will play and sing requests for a few bucks. The mariachis include as many as eight musicians. They have an impressive arsenal of instruments ranging from a round-backed guitar called a vihuela, a guitarron which is a bass guitar, a trumpet or two and some violins. Mariachis, in fancy sequined outfits, are welcome at many restaurants, and tend to play older, traditional tunes. While they are sometimes loud, you can still make out individual words. They do not play the same music as the aforementioned speakers on wheels and boom boxes. And for that you should be very glad. And generous.
Got a ? for Cap’n Greg? Email to rockypointtimes@yahoo.com or send to RPTimes: PO Box 887, Lukeville, AZ 85341
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(a 501©3 non-profit Corporation)
by Nancy Phelan AKA “The Pack Leader” ‘Animals come into our lives as gifts from God, for companionship, to teach us, and to heal us. They deserve our very best efforts in caring for them’ Dr. Ihor Basko, DVM
By Dona Hurley
Naomi and Russ Black became full-time Puerto Peñasco residents in 2007. Both are enthusiastic promoters of our community and encourage everyone to experience and participate in the many offerings of Peñasco. Questions: 1. How would you describe yourself in one sentence? N: Because my mind seems never to stay still which equates to never ending projects and ideas, people often describe me as a creative person. R: An extrovert personality which allows me to enjoy people while showing them the many sights, sounds and tastes of Peñasco and the surrounding area. 2. When and how did you first discover Peñasco? Right after we married 32 years ago we joined friends from Cottonwood, AZ for a camping trip in the Mirador area. 3. What enticed you to locate here? N: We were doing business here for years and already owned a home so when our daughter turned 18 we decided to sell half of our business which presented the opportunity to relocate. R: Ever since I was 9 years old and my father promised to take me fishing in Guaymas, it was my dream to live in Mexico. 4. What was your biggest challenge when adjusting to life here? N: Learning Spanish which has not come easily despite multiple attempts to become more fluent. R: I was accustomed to preferential treatment by my US financial institutes, so standing in line at the banks here was a challenge. Now I’ve come to enjoy the waiting in line and meeting new people. 5. How do you fill your days? N: If not a beach day, sewing and craft work in my little studio which is open to the public on Fridays from noon to 5:00 pm. All of my clothing creations are made from recycled materials and some have a vintage/Victorian allure while others are more fun or whimsical but all with a feminine flare. R: Super active not only conducting “Russ Bus” tours but also working with the City administration to present the bi-monthly Mermaids Market plus developing properties. 6. Besides here, where do you think of as home and what do you miss about that home? Where ever our parents, children and grandchildren are. 7. Prior to locating in Peñasco, what was your job/ career path? We were owners and executives of a two-office temporary staffing company which had 12 inhouse employees and 2,000 +/- temporary staff. 8. What here always brings a smile? N: When our kids visit and finding a really cool seashell. R: Meeting the people who are all super nice and friendly. A quad with 14 people on it. 9. If you were to leave, what would you miss most? The ability to go to the beach whenever we want to. 10. What one thing would you say to convince someone to relocate here? We would never ever try to convince someone – if they want to, they will come. Readers: If you have someone you would like to see interviewed, please send suggestions and contact information to me at dmhurley@usa.net.
Animal Adoption Center of Rocky Point has been at the same location now for 14 years and has been a non-profit corporation since then. Summer is here and this is a tough time of year for the animals as donations are slow. Please consider a small monthly donation to help us get through the summer. You can donate through PayPal on our web page or Facebook page or send a check made out to AACORP to PO Box 1031, Lukeville, AZ 85341. You donations are tax deductible. We suggest that those who find newborn kittens try to care for them through the summer, until they are at least 2 pounds, so that they can be spayed or neutered. Kittens go to volunteer foster families that bottle-feed and take care of them until they are heavy enough for surgery. Many times, when people find a litter of newborn kittens, the mother is somewhere nearby. «What tends to happen is, the mama, she goes out to find food for her kittens. People find these 1or 2-day-old kittens, and people think they›re abandoned,» It sometimes is better to build a shed or a shade area for the kittens while they wait for their mothers to return, rather than to pick them up or move them. We also urge people to take advantage of free or low-cost spay-andneuter clinics if they find stray cats or have pet cats that have not yet been sterilized. The city offers low-cost or free spay-andneuter services and rabies vaccinations. Call for information at (638) 388-5152. Stray cats often are friendly, but feral cats are wild and unable to be socialized. Sterilization helps change feral-cat behaviors that annoy neighbors, such as spraying or yowling, because those behaviors are associated with mating season. With so many kittens available for adoption during the summer, they get snatched up quickly and make older cats less adoptable. We have many kittens that are in many locations/ Please call Nancy at (638) 3831012 for information or an appointment
to see the kittens. We are in need of kitten dry food – Purina is a good one. Please bring a bag or two on your next visit to Rocky Point. A big thank you to all that help the animals. We have five playful, healthy puppies that are up for adoption. We adopted out 5 pups and 4 kittens in the past week so call for appointment to come visit and pick a new best friend. We also helped a local woman with her tiny kitten that had been hit by a car. She was unable to pay for the surgery so AACORP paid for the surgery done by Dr. Chochoy at (638) 383-3228. He is an expert with orthopedics and has fixed many a broken bone over the years. Thank you Chochoy!!! We are in need of cleaning supplies – bleach, white vinegar, Pinesol, disinfectants, sponges, gloves dove soap and soap for washing blankets. We also are in need of baby blankets for the many kittens and puppies. Milk replacement is needed for the babies also. A big thank you to all that help. Come visit us on Facebook and stop by the center for a little play time!!! 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
A literary column By Marcia Diane
No takers. No surprise. Folks are shy to display their talents. We will continue to offer this space to the wealth of creative readers out there. We know you are out there. So then if the very young among us will be patient for this month…I am going to feature a poet who I found in an anthology entitled: When I Am An Old Woman I Shall Wear Purple. Her name is Michele Wolf. The poem first appeared in Conversations During Sleep, a chapbook here described by the poet: “Does it have a spine?” the bookseller Chided, reluctant to stock a collection With less evident heft than its stonier kin. “It has a thin but determined spine, Staple-bound,” I replied. “It stands On its own. And when you open it, its mottled White wings will carry you, high on that spine, Across echoing, dry-river canyons riddled With petroglyphs, beyond hidden cabins Dotting tree-glutted mountaintops, a gray spired City indulgent to street-corner marionettists And blaring traffic that hugs the square, Until it lands you, past miles of sea as subtle As twilight, upon your doorstep, with your Heart wanting to open its spare room To strangers, everything crisp.” -------------------------------------------------------For My Mother I sharpen more and more to your Likeness every year, your mirror In height, autonomous Flying cloud of hair, In torso, curve of the leg, In high-arched, prim, meticulous Feet. I watch my aging face, In a speeding time lapse, Become yours. Notice the eyes, Their heavy inherited sadness, The inertia that sags the cheeks, The sense of limits that sets The groves along the mouth. Grip my hand. Let me show you the way To revolt against what We are born to, To bash through the walls, To burn a warning torch In the darkness, To leave home. -------------------------------------------------------Read her here: Michele Wolf: The Poetry Foundation and in the spirit of full disclosure or exposure here’s one of mine. -------------------------------------------------------Border Lands In a remote area only rusting orange posts and sagging barbed wire mark our idea of division The mountain range across which we’ve cut this path renders our efforts insignificant. Flowing upward over and down for all time belonging inexorably to themselves. M. Diane @6.9.15 -------------------------------------------------------Ok, now you try…we’re waiting on you. Send a sample of your work to us at: m.diane.writeon@gmail.com
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EVENTS CALENDAR JULY 2015 EVERYDAY American Legion Post MX-15 open from 8am-8pm in El Mirador in the old Los Juanes Restaurant. MONDAYS 10AM Alcoholics Anonymous meets (English) (See Pg. 54). 12PM Horseshoe tournament at South Side Jillz, open to anyone who care to play, and with happy hour prices! 1PM Horseshoe Tournament at South Side Jillz. Every Monday. 6PM Alcoholics Anonymous meets (Spanish) (See Pg. 54). TUESDAYS 2PM CEDO Free Public Talk in English and Tour of their facility in Las Conchas. Look for the giant Fin Whale Skeleton. Fun experience for the entire family. Phone 382-0113 for more info. 4PM CEDO Nature Talk in Spanish CBSC – Cholla Bay Sportsmen’s Club meets once a month (on Tues. or Sat.). 4:30PM Peñasco Singles (PS) happy hour at Playa Bonita Hotel 8PM Cinemartes - Art Film Nights at Cafe Puerto Viejo in Old Port. WEDNESDAYS SOBS – South of the Border Singles meet every Wednesday for Happy Hour at Playa Bonita Resort. First Wednesday of every month is business meeting. 10AM Alcoholics Anonymous meets (English) (See Pg. 54). 11AM – Horseshoe Tournament at the Pithaya in El Mirador. 3PM Shooter Bingo at Playa Bonita RV Park Social Club. $6.00 for 6 games with money payouts for each game. After each game, a shooter number is called, if you have this number you get a “shooter” of tequila or ?? Join us each Wednesday in our air conditioned club house. 5PM – AA meets (Spanish). 6PM Alcoholics Anonymous meets (Spanish) (See Pg. 54). PINK CADILLAC - swim up bar, open Wed. thru Sun. 2PM till close. Burgers, pizza and more. 7-8PM Salsa Lessons! At South Side Jillz. Come and learn how to dance like a pro! THURSDAYS PINK CADILLAC - swim up bar, open Wed. thru Sun. 2PM till close. Burgers, pizza and more. 3PM Dart Tournament at the Pink Cadillac in El Mirador. All welcome. 4PM The Connection meets at The Light House. 4PM Bingo (Loteria) at Casa Hogar, Home for the Elderly. Everyone welcome to participate. Darts and Cards at the Sunset Cantina. 5PM-7PM Ladies Day at South Side Jillz, music, games and a “surprise” for all, happy hour prices and a good selection of wine. FRIDAYS 8AM Alcoholics Anonymous “Freebirds” newcomers/ book study meeting. Call 382-5001 for more info (See Pg. 54). Live Music at The Lighthouse Restaurant. PINK CADILLAC - swim up bar, open Wed. thru Sun. 2PM till close. Burgers, pizza and more. 5PM ALANON English speaking meeting at 48 Campeche & Manuel Arista (next to Galindo’s Café) at the Passport AA Club. Call Donna (044-638) 109-3766 or email mmdonnadonna@aol.com for more info. 5PM ALANON PASSPOR CLUB 6:00 pm. Latin Dance Lessons at Peñasco Fitness Center (044-638) 106-3619 or email penascofitness@gmail. com. 7PM Eight Ball Tournament at South Side Jillz for the Pool players, double elimination, blind draw. 8PM - Pool Tournament at South Side Jillz. Every Friday. SATURDAYS 2PM CEDO Free Nature Talk in Spanish and Tour of their facility in Las Conchas. Fun experience for the entire family. Call 382-0113 for info. 4PM CEDO Nature Talk in English
Puerto Peñasco Traffic Violations and Fines
10AM Alcoholics Anonymous meets (English) 6PM AA meets (Spanish) (See Pg. 54). Live Music at The Lighthouse Restaurant. PINK CADILLAC - swim up bar, open Wed. thru Sun. 2PM till close. Burgers, pizza and more. SUNDAYS 9AM Non-Denominational Worship Services with Family of God. Located on Blvd. Costera N 2000A. Everyone welcome. Church Office: 383-3480. 9AM Alcoholics Anonymous Meets (English) (See Pg. 54). 10AM Alcoholics Anonymous meets (English) (See Pg. 54). 3PM Dart Tournament at the Pink Cadillac. Church Service at 10:00AM Bilingual Service with Peñasco Christian Fellowship located 1 blk east of Josefa Ortiz de D. on Melchor Ocampo. Experience worship with both American & Mexican Christians! Phone: (011-52-638) 383-4513.
CHECK OUR FACEBOOK PAGE FOR THE LATEST EVENTS! Friday 3rd • ‘Independence Day’ observed
• OTL to benefit the Santa Claus Club. Contact John Fowler at (602) 840-1528
Saturday 4th • Independence Day • 7pm 5th Annual Sonoran Resorts Las Vegas Night For Charity at the Sonoran Sky Resort
Sunday 25th • 39th El Golfo Run. For reservations email us at rockypointtimes@yahoo. com • OTL to benefit the Santa Claus Club. Contact John Fowler at (602) 840-1528
SEPTEMBER Saturday 5th • Mermaid’s Market 10am3pm Open to the Public at the Sonoran Spa Lobby
Saturday 31st • Halloween
Monday 7 • Labor Day
Sunday 1st • All Saint’s Day
Wednesday 16th • Mexican Independence Day
Monday 2nd • Día de Los Muertos
Friday 25th • Southern Arizona Desert Racing. Point to Point. For more info visit www. racesadr.com
Wednesday 11th • Veteran’s Day • 15th Annual Rocky Point Rally
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Saturday 26th • Southern Arizona Desert Racing. Point to Point. For more info visit www. racesadr.com OCTOBER Friday 9th • Angler of the Year Phase III at JJ’s Cantina in Cholla Bay • Piñata Regatta at Playa Bonita RV Park 5:30pm Saturday 10th • Angler of the Year Phase III at JJ’s Cantina in Cholla Bay • Piñata Regatta at Playa Bonita RV Park 5:30pm
NOVEMBER
Thursday 12th • 15th Annual Rocky Point Rally Friday 13th • 15th Annual Rocky Point Rally Monday 16th • Día de la Revolución Mexicana Thursday 26th • Thanksgiving Day Friday 27th • President’s Day DECEMBER
Sunday 11th • Angler of the Year Phase III at JJ’s Cantina in Cholla Bay • Piñata Regatta at Playa Bonita RV Park 5:30pm
Friday 4th • Southern Arizona Desert Racing. Cholla 250. For more info visit www. racesadr.com
Monday 12th • Columbus Day
Saturday 5th • Southern Arizona Desert Racing. Cholla 250. For more info visit www. racesadr.com
Friday 23rd • 39th El Golfo Run. For reservations email us at rockypointtimes@yahoo. com Saturday 24th • 39th El Golfo Run. For reservations email us at rockypointtimes@yahoo. com
Thursday 24th • Christmas Eve Friday 25th • Christmas Day Thursday 31st • New Year’s Eve
By Jim Ringquist
Not that long ago, I wrote a short story for one of my newsletters telling you how many stop signs I ran every day on my way to work and back. Well, not any more. Fines have been increased and patrols are now citing people for running stop signs, not using blinkers, even parking in the wrong direction on the side of the street - what nerve! Actually, it has been a long time coming and our little town is growing up from the very lax fishing village, into a real-life small city. I now obey traffic laws just as I would if I were driving in Phoenix or Tucson, and it’s really not much of an inconvenience at all. It’s probably for the best anyway because not everyone is as conscientious and I have probably avoided an accident or two by stopping at a stop sign when the car coming the other direction decided that they didn’t need to. One thing to remember is that the sign doesn’t necessarily have to exist in order to be enforced. A good example are the stop signs that are laying in the road, bent to point the other direction, or just missing completely. If you can tell that there are stop signs on the other 3 corners, best stop whether there is a sign there or not. If the car in front of you stops before proceeding, you better do the same. Speed limits seem to be fairly arbitrary. Most areas of town don’t have speed limit signs and my best advice is to just go with the flow of traffic. That way you are not only driving more safely, you are also avoiding drawing the attention to yourself that could get you a ticket. Above are some Mexican traffic signs. Most are pretty self-explanatory, some are a bit strange, and a good number of them I have never even seen. Below are the current fines levied by Puerto Peñasco courts for various infractions. It is always recommended to go to the station to pay your fine. Do not pay the officer who stops you. Also, if you pay your fines within 24 hours, you will get a 50% discount. Definitely worth getting there right away to handle it. I especially like the one entitled “Other Behaviors or Actions Not Covered by Sanctions”. Guess that’s easier than adding another page of citations. That one just edged out “Driving the Vehicle with People Peeking Out” as my favorite. I almost laughed out loud when I visualized that one. Another thing that has been changing for the better is the reducing number of police asking for a “mordida” (bite) bribe instead of going to the station to pay a fine as is the correct method of handling a traffic infraction. As stated above, always insist on paying your ticket at the main police station.
Paying bribes only perpetrates the problem. If you are subjected to an officer requesting a bribe, be polite but ask him to please give you a written ticket to take to the station. If they insist on receiving payment then and there, request a receipt. Also write down the area of town that you’re in, the time of day, and the number of the patrol car. Don’t be rude or demanding or you may end up in more trouble than you started with. You should then report the incident to the comandante at the main police station. Luckily, this has become the exception rather than the rule. Through stepped up training and strict oversight, the frequency of the mordida has gone way down in Puerto Peñasco. Sonoyta, on the other hand, is still having a bit more of a problem with officers pulling people over for “speeding” and asking for their “mordida”. I have been pulled over only once in all the trips that I have made but I knew that I hadn’t been speeding and I immediately knew what the officer wanted. I actually did insist on going to the station to pay, which I did. The ticket was bogus but at least the officer didn’t get his “little bite” from me. The best advice for passing through is to do the “Sonoyta Crawl”, meaning to drive very slowly through town. Since my “ticket”, I have done this and have never had another problem. The good thing is that the Sonoyta Municipal government is working very hard to crack down on the problem, just as Puerto Peñasco has done. The Mayor issued a statement in response to complaints from travelers and recommends that, if you have been asked for a bribe, you should report it. Here is the contact information - Please try to get the car number, location, and time of day: 651-512-1172 or 651-101-7145 or email contraloriasocialsonoyta@hotmail.com. Overall, it isn’t a huge problem, but you can all help by not cooperating if it does happen to you. Things have been getting much better - let’s keep the momentum going in the right direction and just play by the rules.
This article is brought to you by the Sonoran Resorts Sales Group, www.sonoranresorts.mx, Jim Ringquist, Director of Sales and Marketing.
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The Views, The Food, The Drinks… Ahhh…It’s SKY BAR!!!
By Mark Paliscak
A short couple of months ago, Rocky Point added an amazing eatery and libation location at the very top of Whale Hill overlooking all of Rocky Point. Whether you are looking for a romantic date spot, drinks with the buddies or simply a spot to come and hang and listen to some great live music, SKY BAR is the place for you. Sky Bar is located atop the former, Lighthouse Restaurant and was completely redone with a sleek bar and restaurant vibe. They accentuated the amazing views even more! Hats off to Chef Luca and his lovely wife, Karina for an awesome remodel and great new addition to Rocky Point! I recently sat down with Luca and Karina to learn more about their past and what brought them to Rocky Point and how this resulted in their present prize, Sky Bar. Marco: Tell me about your history with owning and managing restaurants? Karina: Luca studied in Instituto Alberghiero San Remo, one of the world’s most prestigious culinary arts schools, requiring five full years of intensive studies and practical application experience in every phase of food and beverage service and preparation, including dining room service, concierge desk, wine classifications, and much more. At the young age of 19, Luca became Sous Chef of the Five Star Miramare Restaurant in San Remo, after two years there he served in the Army for one year and returned to become the Chef of Four Star Villa María Restaurant before being offered the Chef position at the renowned Five Star Tre
Pinni Restaurant where he served for six years. In 2002 a longtime family friend came to San Remo and offered Luca a job as Head Chef of his three Tutti Santi restaurants in the Phoenix area. During the eight years he was with Tutti Santi he opened two more restaurants for the family friend. Chef Luca relocated to Puerto Peñasco in 2010 and opened the Mare Blu as Chef and partner. After a year he decided to open his own restaurant and named it Pane e Vino Ristorante in June of 2011. In February of this year, he took over Lighthouse Restaurant with a new concept, new menu (mostly seafood) a new team and a new restaurant…Fish Restaurant and at the end of April, after much preparation, he opened Sky Bar. Marco: How did the concept come up for Sky Bar? Luca: A lot of customers always asked me if there is a bar with live music to go to, and when I opened Fish Restaurant...I really liked the space upstairs for a predinner or after dinner bar with live music, a relaxing bar. Marco: What are your top selling drinks and food? Karina: Strawberry caipiroska (this cocktail is a sweet variation of Caipirinha that, instead of Cachaca, has vodka and an addition of strawberry pulp) and about food...the pot stikers. Marco: Well, I’ll try two of each! Marco: Do you have Happy Hour?
The Pitfalls of Paradise?
Karina: We don’t have a happy hour, but every Friday we have a Ladies Night, one dollar well drinks only for ladies from 9 pm to 11 pm. Marco: Wow, only a buck…I’m rounding up my lady friend’s for some Friday night fun for sure! Marco: Tell us about the views? Karina: Sunsets are always spectacular, from the outside patio you can see the Sea of Cortez, Malecón and Puerto Peñasco beachfront resorts condominiums. It is just an amazing place to be! Marco: And be seen! Why should we go to Sky Bar as compared to the other restaurants and bars in town? Karina: It is lovely bar with a great atmosphere and friendly staff, good drinks and to top it off amazing view on the balcony seating area…it is a perfect way to enjoy your evening or night. Marco: Brenda was our server tonight and did a great job! She is courteous, pretty and super fun! Are all your servers and bartenders as good as she? Luca: We have a great team, Alonso is the bartender and Brenda is the waitress, they are doing a great job, both are very friendly. Marco: I’ll say!! What are your hours? Karina: Tuesday - Sunday from 6 pm to 2 am Marco: What do you like best about Sky Bar? Karina: I really like the atmosphere. We are having live music Friday & Saturday starting at 9 pm, Jesse Gerardo who is a singer and guitarist. Marco: How did the two of you meet? Karina: We met at Mare Blu, he was the executive chef and I was the general manager, after a year he decided to leave Mare Blu and open his own place (Pane e Vino), as soon as we opened it I knew he would not stop with just one restaurant. We got married in October 2013. Marco: Well, SALUD to that mis amigos! So, if you are looking to check out the new vibe in town with the most amazing views, please check out Sky Bar and tell them Marco sent you…I hear they have a new drink now called The Marco Especial…I suggest to order two and call a cab…or Tomas! As Wyland has been quoted, “The ocean stirs the heart, inspires the imagination and brings eternal joy to the soul.” Let your eternal joy be found again soon on our beautiful beaches right here in Rocky Point. Until, next month my friends, always remember to keep an eye out for a friend in need…they are everywhere and you have the power to make THE difference. Adios amigos and GOD BLESS!
One definition for the word colony is “a body of people living in a new territory but retaining ties with a parent state.” Wow, that’s sounds like us. I was pondering this recently and began categorizing our little society here in Rocky Point. We have the one-timers, the once-in-a-while folks, weekend warriors, snowbirds and of course the mentally disturbed regulars here year round. These observations produced some fun if not slanted thoughts about our community. The one-timers are those brave souls that have ventured for the first time into a war torn land with rebels and banditos behind every cactus. They’ll have a lifetime of stories to tell about the dangers encountered while traveling thru such a perilous combat zone. Our once-in-a-whilers enjoy it here, but the four hour drive from Tucson or Phoenix is too difficult for regular visits. They’re drawn to the Applebees down the street. With an innate fear of DUIs and after only two glasses of beer they’re forced to keep a vigilant watch for the law. Weekend warriors are normally couples that use this place as a getaway, similar to a family cabin at the lake only the dude that owns the convenience store doesn’t understand a word of English and mastery of simple sign language becomes essential for survival. Additionally, the lake doesn’t offer a bevy of 13th street debutantes plying their wares in front of Irv’s Beer & Tackle Store. Our snowbirds are by and large a good bunch, but let’s get seriousminded you spend six months playing the role of a toughened expatriate living in a far-off land then skedaddle back to the States at the first signs of warm winds. We describe these sorts as fair weather individuals only interested in attending the first half of a big game. The full-timers are a different class altogether. These folks are on a journey and embark on their quests using a variety of lifestyles. You’ve got your students of Spanish & history, boozers, artistic types, midnight tokers, adventurers, religious–types, fishermen & boat owners, party girl mongers, old hippies, story tellers, lost souls, happy-go-lucky types and a few that stay miserably irritated with the entire world. I’m in there someplace. I know the culture is different, the language can sometimes be difficult, potholes are bottomless and a nice car wash lasts about 2 hours, but when I wake-up in the morning and look in the mirror I see an old guy staring back with a ridiculous wry smile on his face. Yeah, baby, Dan McWhitis…
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Flights from Scottsdale to Rocky Point!
By Jim Rinquist
Beach Vacations with Baby in Rocky Point, Mexico By Stephanie Wood
Both of my girls took their first trip to Mexico when they were 3 months old. My teenager is now a seasoned traveler and my toddler has been to Rocky Point over a dozen times now.
My biggest travel tip when traveling with children is to stay in a CONDO!!! This goes for vacations anywhere, not just Mexico. Hotel rooms are not equipped for a kid’s level of energy. Hotel rooms are small and cramped, and even suites are too compact for active children. Probably the greatest advantage to a beach vacation in Rocky Point is that you are staying at condos with full kitchens. For the same price, or cheaper, than a hotel in California, you are getting much better family amenities. Also in CA, you are not right at the beach, usually it’s at least a short drive away, which means packing the kids up in the car, yuck! In RP you can walk right down from your condo to the beach.
For Babies and Toddlers our #1 recommended item is a sturdy stroller. The stroller doubles as an excellent bag carrier to get LOTS of stuff from the car up to the room. Depending on your condo complex, you may have a 5-minute or so walk to the pool or beach, so with a tired or hyper toddler, it’s really nice to have. It’s also great for carting beach towels, toys, sunscreen, etc. Our #2 item is the pack’n’play. This is useful for sleeping, but also time outs, and keeping toddlers contained if you need them out from underfoot for a few minutes. Food for kids in Mexico: If you are on a budget, take advantage of your full kitchen (fridge, stove, oven, microwave, and dishwasher, dishes, and cooking utensils). Also the Tupperware and pots and pans double as toys, so you can pack less! You can buy milk, juice boxes, yogurt, cereal, bread, and all kinds of snacks at the major markets in town. The fruit and vegetable quality and selection are excellent in Rocky Point. Sometimes we just stock the fridge and eat at home the whole trip. Don’t be afraid to venture out to the many great restaurants RP has to offer. Both girls have eaten out at restaurants in Mexico since they could eat solid food. The Mexican culture is very kid friendly and most restaurants have kids’ menus. Our kid’s favorite foods are guacamole,
cheese quesadillas, beans, rice, and mangos on the beach.
Getting to the sunny beach town of Rocky Point was never this easy. Forget about driving, and plan your next weekend getaway by flying to Rocky Point with Westwind Air Service and spend more time in the sun by the beach than ever! On May 1, 2015, Westwind Air Service, a Part 135 Air carrier based in Phoenix, Arizona began weekly flights to Rocky Point, Mexico. These flights are designed to accommodate the weekend “getaway” traveler. Departures will be from Scottsdale Airpark on Friday’s at 2:00 PM and will arrive in Rocky Point at approximately 3:20 PM. Return flights to Scottsdale will be on Sunday’s at 4:00 PM and will arrive at Scottsdale by 5:20 PM. Expanded service will be available in the near future, offering multiple departure and arrival dates. Check our website for more information. Westwind operates a fleet of Cessna Grand Caravan single engine, turbine powered aircraft that provide exceptional safety, air-conditioned comfort and seating for up to 9 passengers. Flights may be booked on the Westwind website at: http://www.westwindairservice.com/charter-airservice-to-mexico/ Flight Information: 1. Passengers should arrive at airport 30 minutes prior to flight. 2. Departing Scottsdale on Friday at 2:00 PM. Arrive Rocky Point at approximately 3:20 PM. 3. Depart Rocky Point at 4:00 PM on Sunday. Arrive Scottsdale at approximately 5:20 PM. 4. Departures will not wait for late passengers. Restrictions: 1. Maximum baggage is 50 lbs. per passenger. 2. Passengers are responsible for loading and unloading their baggage from the aircraft with the pilot’s assistance. 3. Westwind reserves the right to inspect all baggage loaded onto the aircraft.
Miscellaneous Tips: Your condo may not be baby-proof, so you may want to take some outlet plugs. That’s about the only thing we do, and we just shut the doors of all the rooms we don’t want them in. You can also use the stroller, pack n play, or chairs to make off limit areas for baby. Also, we’ve found we don’t need to pack toys other than what she needs to keep busy in the car because you will spend most of your time outside at the pool or beach. Shells and rocks found on the beach make excellent toys for small kids too. Also, see above for kitchen play, honestly my 2 year old will play with Tupperware all day long! Don’t forget your sunscreen, and bring sand toys, a baggie to collect shells in, and a ball for the beach and you’ve got yourself a fun and fabulous family vacation!
Purchase Policies: 1. Currently the round trip fare is $350.00usd. Check individual dates for special rates. 2. An $8.00 customs fee and an $11.60 outbound passenger fee are included in the price of the ticket. 3. All reservations must be made online through the reservations portal either directly by customer or through an agent. 4. Credit cards are required but will not be charged until the day of the trip. Cash will NOT be accepted. 5. 7 day cancellation notice applies to all bookings. Within 7 days of departure, no refund is given. Immigration Details: 1. All information requested during the booking process is required. No exceptions. Much of this information is required by customs and immigration. 2. Passengers must have their passport with them before boarding the flight. 3. Passengers may not be added to a flight within 24 hours of departure. For more information, call Westwind at 888-869-0866 or e-mail: info@westwindairservice.com This article is brought to you by the Sonoran Resorts Sales Group, www.sonoranresorts.mx, Jim Ringquist, Director of Sales and Marketing.
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Finding Paradise
Strange questions travel agents deal with
You Can’t Make This Stuff Up! By Joe Houchin
During National Travel and Tourism Week celebrations earlier in May (May 2-10) the American Society of Travel 4 (2) Agents (ASTA) released the results of a survey sent to industry leaders asking for their strangest requests from customers over the last year. As usual, many of the requests were barely believable, especially to those outside the travel industry, but they are absolutely true, illustrating the importance of a travel agent understanding that some travelers require more “hand holding” than others. Here are 20 of the strangest ones. We added the sarcasm in italics when we just couldn’t help ourselves! A. Can you please book the honeymoon suite for us and another couple? B. Can you please plan a honeymoon for me, my bride and my mother? (O.K., these first two don’t even deserve a comment!) C. Can you guarantee that no pet has ever been in the hotel room? (I don’t know, over the years, we’ve booked some real dogs into that hotel.) D. Can I fish off of the cruise ship? (Any agency open longer than three months has dealt with this one, really!) E. Do they speak English in Britain? (Believe it or not, this is another frequent flier!)8 F. Can you book two rooms in different parts of the resort-one for me and my wife, and the other for my girlfriend? (WT…?) G. Is our relationship like a client/ lawyer relationship? (ASTA wonders if this is the same client who asked Question 6). H. Does the crew actually sleep onboard the cruise ship? (Uh, no they actually sleep on the life boats.) I. Don’t tell my fiancé this is where I
took my first wife for our honeymoon. J. I would like to go somewhere where there are NOT a lot of men. (Isla Mujeres, maybe?) K. I’d like to meet Elvis. (One more question like that and you just might!) L. I’d like to get married in the Caribbean on an island where the marriage is not legal in the U.S. (Again, we refer you to Question 6). M. Will there be shadows on my face at 4 p.m. when the pictures are taken? (No, that’s Happy Hour; you might have some Piña Colada on your upper lip, though!) N. Will you watch my pet while I’m away? (We would love to, but our kennel is being remodeled…) O. Are there toll roads on the way to Hawaii? (Nope, they’re all free interstate highways!) P. How can I get to Europe without going by air or sea? (Have you tried Googling that one?) Q. I’d like to visit Scotland and Denmark on the same trip. (Agent then tells client he does not have time in his schedule to travel the distance). But they’re only an inch apart on the map! (The geographical variety of this frequent repeater has covered the world map!) R. Can you set it up so that the whales jump in the background at the same time I’m proposing to my girlfriend? (Sure, just tell the photographer to use his whale whistle.) S. Can you ask the airline to block the seat next to me so I can stretch out? (The frequency of this one is almost daily!) T. I don’t want a window seat on the plane because I just had my hair done. (We saved the hardest to believe to the last! Not only true but frequently asked!) We hope you got a kick out of these entries into the “You just can’t make this stuff up” category.
This article is brought to you by the Sonoran Resorts Sales Group, www.sonoranresorts.mx, Jim Ringquist, Director of Sales and Marketing.
By Sandy Spain
Once Again
Once again it is Rocky Point Times news deadline and I am out of ideas. Guess the inspiration I was looking for just wasn’t looking for me. So I still don’t know what the focus of future articles will be. Summer is in full swing as you read this and we will have had the last Mermaid Market until September and another successful Charity Rubber Duckie Race. Thanks to all of you who provide such awesome support for the needs of our community. Look for the big event on July 4th, the Sonoran’s annual Las Vegas Night.
Summer Schedules
Keep in mind that many of our restaurants and other businesses close in the summer to take some time off and vacation themselves or do alterations at their business. Some take a couple of weeks and some take a month in either August or September. I do know that Mariachis y Tequila will close for all of August and September to complete the second floor of the restaurant. The downstairs is so nice, I can’t wait to see what they do upstairs. Rocio’s and Pedro’s have advised that they will be open all summer. Rocio’s just completed a remodel that enlarged their place and it looks great. Other places that I talked to, were not yet sure of their summer schedule. Some will have reduced days/ hours rather than close completely – so be sure to check first so that you won’t be disappointed.
Road Construction
If you have been on the Sonoyta highway north of town in the last 10 days or so, you saw that construction. For those of you who have not been, there are graded dirt detours on each side of the old roadway to take you around the construction at the El Gulfo-Caborca intersection. They are constructing an overpass in place of the circular intersection.
Bits and Pieces
I was visiting Jill at Consign and Design and she left me know that they were moving from the front showroom
to operate out of the large storage area in the back. Take the driveway on the West side of the front building and drive to the rear, or park in the front and walk back. They will still display some items in the front. The original Hacienda Las Fuentes became Don Julio’s and is now once again Hacienda Las Fuentes with the original chef. Be sure and try it out.
Sharing
I asked in my last article for you to share what you love about Peñasco so that we can give readers a wide perspective of what is available. I received several comments on the usual – our beautiful beaches and sunsets and our friendly community. A couple of you commented on the new pavement around town really improving your experience. So remember to be patient with all the road construction, it sure is great when it is completed. Not surprising I received some comments on your favorite restaurants and food items (seems eating out is a focus for many of you when visiting or living in Peñasco). Comments included Las Brisas’s stuffed potatoes, La Curva’s drink the especial, any shrimp or fish at Pedro’s, chile rellenos at Rocio’s, spinach omelets and tortilla soup at Xochitl’s and coconut onion rings at Beach Bum. Also mentioned was the great food at the recently reopened Friendly Dolphin and the coconut shrimp at Maria Bonita’s. A full-time RV-er commented on the great activities and sense of fun at Playa Bonita RV Park. Another mentioned the increase in the entertainment options with more live music and the movie theater.
Taking a Break
I will be taking a break. I won’t be traveling in Mexico this year but am making a trip to Scandinavia and then have a big personal project to take care of so I will be spending August and September mostly in Puerto Peñasco but will not have articles for a few months. Let me know your favorite things about visiting or living in Puerto Peñasco as I am planning a future article entitled - “A few of our favorite things”. Enjoy your summer and keep coming back to town to experience all this paradise has to offer.
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Ch- ch- ch- changes in Rocky Just passing Point…can you feel it? the time By Anita Kaltenbaugh
David Bowie’s lyrics to his 1971 thought provoking song “Changes” is stuck in my mind. Here in Rocky Point, I’m humming the tune as I’m driving through the newly concreted roads in town. Everywhere I look, there is new concrete, new palm trees; the sandy dirt roads are disappearing. Can you feel it? It’s a low hum of energy coursing through the air. Things are a moving. Things are a changing. See, I’ve been here before, I’ve witnessed this same hum--ten years ago. Yes, ten years ago when I quit corporate America to move down to the beach in Mexico, many thought I had lost my mind and fell off the deep end. I left a career, sold my house to work on my dream--writing the next Great American Novel. I relocated to a Rocky Point that was much slower, less crowded and less conveniences. Rocky Point didn’t have shredded cheese at the grocery store(something I constantly craved), pizza delivery or American Diet Coke. Financing for buying a condo was rare and driving from town to Sandy Beach was on all dirt bumpy roads. There was no Sam’s Club, Walmart,
Burger King or Circle K’s. Beach bar on Sandy Beach? No Wrecked at the Reef or fine dining restaurant. No swim up pool bars. Just a camping spot, with the old Reef bar. Now there are numerous cantina’s, delicious eateries and sports bars fighting to get your attention in every direction. Ten years ago, the only internet was on your laptop, which could be sparse and unreliable and definitely no smartphones, tablets or IPAD. The majority of the time you were connected to the sea not to each other--which was not necessarily a bad thing. The old airport on the west side of Benito Juarez was what one used to fly a small private plane to Rocky Point, and the talk of the international airport seemed like a distant dream. Old Port dirt roads with electrical wires hanging down created the shopping scene and shrimp market. Most purchases of a condo were cash and Sonoran Sky, Puerto Privada, Sonoran Sun and Las Palmas had not even broken ground. Las Palomas was just footers in the ground, and Bella Sirena was just getting rolling. Puerto Peñasco was never featured on HGTV House Hunters and the whales were not jumping as high to gain international attention and go viral. We’ve come a long way in ten years, and we will continue to change dramatically if the first Mexican Cruise Ship Departure Port is completed in Puerto Peñasco. If that happens, Hold on…things are really going to change. The pier for the home port project continues to stretch out into the sea, as truck after truck dumps their load, and the blocks needed to complete building the pier seem to grow in number overnight. Suddenly bumpy sandy roads are concreted and we have a Conference Center on a paved road. Last month the Windmill out by the entrance to Sandy Beach started turning, and Westward Air started charter flights from Scottsdale for weekend runs. Check them out at www.westwardAir.com. The Malecon has had a beautiful face-lift, and Old Port had all the electrical wires placed underground. The dirt turned into concrete sidewalks and roads with covered walkways in front of the shops. Now, as of last month, driving into town on Benito Juarez, palm trees line the center of our entrance to our city and the concrete looks shiny and white. Even Dominio’s
delivers. A lot has transpired in ten years: a five year depression, bad media, but with hope, progress keeps building. Ch-ch-ch changes are happening, and continue to develop at a faster speed. It reminds me of the last time I noticed itten years ago. One day everything seemed slow, normal and suddenly, more and more folks kept coming down and coming back spending money, buying property. It was as if something clicked. The real estate market went through the roof, and I had to put my pen down. David Bowie lyrics focused on “the compulsive nature of artist reinvention” which somehow reminds me of the compulsive nature of Rocky Point continuing to reinvent itself once more. If you don’t see the changes, wipe off your smudgy sunglasses and look around. Try some of the new places to eat, talk to the owners who are all hoping for a bright future for Rocky Point. They are looking ahead, getting ready to be part of the new change. Go pull up a lawn chair on Sandy Beach on a Saturday afternoon, and notice the weekend crowds growing larger on once empty beaches. Change--It’s coming.
Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future. ~John F. Kennedy Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything. ~George Bernard Shaw We all have big changes in our lives that are more or less a second chance. ~Harrison Ford If nothing ever changed, there’d be no butterflies. ~Author Unknown
Anita Kaltenbaugh is the Mexico travel examiner at examiner.com and author of the book “Travel Secrets- Insider guide to planning, affording and taking more vacations” available at Amazon.com. Photos by marcia Brockmeyer.
by Rob Baylor
Time has snuck up on me. I went to bed tonight and realized that I didn’t write anything for this month’s Rocky Point Times and the deadline is tomorrow. Oh woe is me, what should I write about? How about the fish that got away? Do you want to hear about that? Guess you are going to because I am picking at straws here. I always try to get new people to go fishing with me because some people would like to go but don’t know how to go about finding a charter, how much it cost and the rest about it. Here is the straight scoop. When you are heading to the Malecon, there is a marina on the right side of the road. All you have to do is pull in there and the captains will approach you. Ask questions, be comfortable with their answers. How far out? How much per person? Do they clean the fish or is that extra? Do they furnish the equipment? I took a man out with me and he had never fished before. I gave him some motion sickness pills but I should have had him take one the night before and then one in the morning. I had a big fish break my pole a couple weeks before and I got a new one to replace it. I used it 3 times and I let this gentleman use it on this day. He got seasick and put the pole in the pole holder and started to chum the fish .A big fish grabbed the bait, snapped the pole in two places and broke the line. Didn’t lose my reel though. It is so nice and peaceful out on the water. I have seen it all in the last five years. Whales, dolphin, sea lions and fish jumping out of the water. Give it a shot, you will love it. Thanks again for reading my articles. Hope you enjoy.
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TRAVELINFORMATION 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...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 INTERNAL AFFAIRS AT 388-6552
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. 66m 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 shoppingm to find everything from one-ofa-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.
COMING FROM CALIFORNIA 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 through the border, go straight for a few blocks, turn left for a few blocks and then turn right onto 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. There is a toll booth you will go through (currently $94 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.
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 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
ACCIDENTS If you are involved in a (nondeath) accident in Mexico, you are considered at fault until proven otherwise. All parties are taken to the police station where you
ACCIDENTS CON’T 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 U.S. AIRPORTS (CLOSEST)
Phoenix, Tucson & Nogales, AZ
BUS STATIONS (MEXICO) ABC - Phone: 383-1999 (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 TAP - Phone: 383-6761 (Transportes y Autobuses del Pacifico) W side of Blvd. Benito Juarez, N of the signal at Constitucion
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
CONSULATES MEXICAN CONSULATES Tucson: 553 S. Stone Ave., 85701 (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 CLOSED MIDNIGHT - 6:00 AM
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
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 (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 $75 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. • 2 cartons of cigarettes or 50 cigars. • 3 liters (approx. 3 quarts) of wine, alcohol, beer, etc. if the passenger is an adult. You may import an additional 2 liters and pay 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 tapes • Typewriter or 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.
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TRAVELINFORMATION 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 $75.00 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 $75 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 $1,000 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 and you are allowed only two (2) animals per vehicle. 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 CLOSED MIDNIGHT - 6:00 AM 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 inbetween. 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 (602) 971-0166, Toll Free 866-443-2368 www.headouttorockypoint.com Lloyds Rocky Point Shuttle and Tours (623) 551-568-9001, Toll Free 866-568-9001 info@lloydsrockypointshuttle.com www.lloydsrockypointshuttle.com www.lloydsgrandtours.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: 602-455-9522
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. $195 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. $44 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. $30 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 rptimes@ prodigy.net.mx or phone (480) 463-6255 or local 383-6325.
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The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
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The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
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The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
Israel Ríos García, Local Artist By Rita Pizarro
Rocky Point has a lot of talent in a young local man. He actually has some trajectory and is pretty busy with his multifaceted career as a muralist, designer, body painter and almost anything that has to do with visual arts. His Name is Israel Rios Garcia. I have seen Israel around town, in many events, at the Malecon, at a friend’s party, at the skateboard park and also doing amazing body paint at the Bike Rally, Halloween, Day of the Dead etc. You can also see his art just driving around town in several Murals, exhibits and even some spray paint here and there including the skateboard park area.
He has a bubbly personality and an amazing positive attitude with a contagious wide smile that makes people happy just to look at, he is a natural born artist with a combination that is really hard to find: Talent, Technique and Charisma. Some of the talents he possesses include photography, body painting, automotive and motorcycle painting, design, murals, portraits and canvases with many different techniques including airbrush. His latest incursion is in the art of tattoos, a more permanent form of body paint. Human skin, canvas, walls, metal: The surface does not matter: He can paint on it.
His body paint is both creative and realistic, Halloween and the Rocky Point Bike Rally saw a lot of his creations walking around in unworldly fashion including Tommy who had half his face painted, he mixes Mexican folk art influenced by day of the dead cultural sub-tones with American culture gory Halloween effects, he can also paint a tree growing out of a woman’s back and blend a mural with his body painted subjects until it looks like real life is coming out of the wall. On Canvas he has a lot of nature inspired creations including a frog that looks like it just landed there, still moist and shimmery from the latest jump in the pond; a bug that is about to fly away from the canvas, tarantulas, Macaws, big cats including a tiger that looks into your eyes just about to pounce, and even a moist eye in which you can see the reflection, all falling into realistic “pop out of the canvas” style, but he goes beyond realist and will draw skulls, villains, portraits and even a magnificent black and white of Marilyn Monroe. He can also reinterpret other artist’s paintings. There is no vanity in him, he is so easy going and
honest with his techniques, he will try new things and say: Look: this is the first one I made with this technique, “What do you think?” And he keeps on learning, living evolving and amazing the people around him who can brush against his creativity and zest for life, he uses no drugs, doesn’t drink or smoke, he doesn’t have any vices, which allows him more time to do what he does, and keep on getting better at it. Israel also has the innate artist sixth sense, one day we were at an event trying to clean and make the local skateboard park a better place for the local kids, he likes skateboarding and helping the community, we talk a little and he says he wants to give me something, we spent a couple of hours and when I was leaving he says: “Rita here is a present for you”, and hands me a rhinoceros painting, this is after I went to Africa on a veterinarian Safari which main purpose was to help with the conservation of Rhinos through DNA testing, microchipping horns and trackers (we made sure they were still working or installed new batteries if needed). The rhinoceros in Africa is a severely endangered species due to poaching for the mistaken belief that the powdered horn is some kind of aphrodisiac and many other believed curative powers that have never been proven by western medicine, mostly they are sold in the Asian market. Groups of rhinos in wildlife reserves need armed guards 24/7 following the animals in pickup trucks and even then sometimes poachers in helicopters get away with darting and sawing off a few horns here and there from the reserves,
leaving the animal to die from bleeding or complications, some reserves have chosen to have rhinos dehorned to avoid the need for guards and some prefer not to have rhinos because of the expense involved in protecting them, so after being in Africa, going through the procedure of darting a rhino, taking blood samples for DNA testing, actually touching a rhino and seeing them in their natural environment, Israel comes to me and gives me a beautiful painting of a Rhino; I blink twice look at him incredulous and ask him if he knew I was in Africa, he says “No, but I knew you would appreciate it”. That can only be explained with the sixth sense of a real artist, with real talent! You can email Israel at: heromex@live. com.mx Also look for him on Facebook and you can see a lot more of his art, just look for: IZRAEL RIOS GARCIA.
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The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
GENERALINFORMATION ATV’s ATV’S ARE NOT PERMITTED ON CITY BEACHES Please follow these rules when riding ATV’s in Rocky Point. • Helmets recommended • 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. 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) 387-7616 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.
CAMPING 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. RV PARKS 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 El Mirador - Playa de Oro Sandy Beach - Playa Bonita 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.
CHURCHES 7th Day Adventist Church Pastor Antulio Espinoza Ave. Sinaloa (between Alberto Lizárraga & Gregorio Escalante) Tel: (044-638) 110-5538 Worship Saturday 9:30am 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 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 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 Sandy Beach Medical Center 388-7676 Cellular: 044-638-110-7898 Dr. Jesús González Gaytán Blvd. Paseo de Las Dunas (On Sandy Beach) 24 Hr. Emergency Service Available Full Service Outpatient Medical Clinic English speaking doctor and staff 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. 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
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.
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
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GENERALINFORMATION 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, next to Bancomer. 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 Proaset Realty. 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 Postmaster: Transitional 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 entrace 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.
U.S. DMV (MOTOR VEHICLES) The closest U.S. Department of Motor Vehicles to Puerto Peñasco is 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 open to the American Community. Located at City Hall on the 1st floor facing Fremont Blvd. 10am-12pm.
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 as do these wedding specilaists:
Si I Do! - (011-52-638) 383-0700
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.
www.siido.com
CELLULAR PHONES
Wedding Music by Pablo 602) 288-8687 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.
to dial a cell phone from a land line dial 044 + 638 + 7-digit number
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 operatorCall 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 DO NOT USE THE “CALL USA” BLUE PHONES THEY ARE VERY EXPENSIVE! 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.
to dial from local cell to local cell dial 638 + 7-digit number to dial out of city cell from local cell dial 045 + 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+pone 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.
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The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
Migration of the Monarch Butterfly
By Rosarie Salerno
Prior to 1976 the complete migration of the Monarch Butterfly was pretty much a mystery to entomologist. Thanks to the efforts of Fred Urquhart, who graduated from the University of Toronto in 1935, the overwintering migration was investigated. He and his wife along with other volunteers tagged, researched and raised hundreds of thousands of butterflies over a period of 38 years; leading to the discovery of their migration from as far north as southern Canada all the way to their overwintering locations in Mexico. They also discovered the full life cycle of these remarkable insects. Monarch Butterflies (the first generation) born, circa the 15th of August, in the northern United States and southern Canada begin the long flight by gathering at the Texas-Mexican border in early fall and continue the journey to Central Mexico to spend the winter. This generation will live 7 to 9 months during their winter stay. Monarchs that live in the southern states of the US, that do not migrate, live much shorter lives. Near the end of winter the butterflies start flying north feeding on nectar from flowers, water and some fruits, mate and lay eggs along the way. The Monarchs newly -born in the southern US (second generation) will continue the flight north to the northern US and southern Canadian regions, mating and laying eggs along the way. It could take 3 to 4 generations to make it all the way north. There they will spend the summer feeding, mating and laying eggs. The 5th generation, or possibly latter, will begin the flight back to Mexico in the fall; starting the cycle all over again. Pre-Columbian Amerindians were very aware of the overwintering sites of the Monarchs. Papalotl, from the Nahuatl language, were believed to be the souls of warriors who died in battle or were killed on sacrificial alters. The Monarchs are also connected to the «daughters of the Sun» symbolizing the renewal of the natural
cycle. The Indios who inhabited the area around the overwintering sites timed the harvesting of their corn with the Monarchs arrival. Originally, the Day of the Dead was celebrated in August by the pre-Columbian indigenous people, about the time of the Monarchs› arrival in the area. Today the Mariposa, Spanish word, is still associated with the Day of the Dead which is now observed from the Catholic calendar on All Souls Day, November 2nd. In 1980, Mexico›s president, Jose Lopez Portillo, designated the mountainous forest regions of eastern Michoacán to western Mexico State, about 100 km northwest of Mexico City, as a biosphere preserve. In 2000 the area was officially named La Reserva de la Biosfera Mariposa Monarca and in 2008 it was designated as a World Heritage Natural Site by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, UNESCO. Conservation originally was indented to protect the butterfly but now the focus is on preserving the habitats. The reserve›s fir tree forests provide a unique microclimatic condition that allows the butterflies to survive the winter. Even though, Mexico has designated the area as a National Reserve it does not own the land. The land belongs to 38 ejidos, 7 indigenous communities and private holdings thus conflicts of the use of the land exist threatening the habitats; illegal logging and the production of food from the agrarian farmers as well as ranchers is destroying and diminishing the ecosystem of the reserve for perhaps billions of Monarchs. The old trees, that are being cut down; due to their size retain the heat of the day, while new growth thinner trees retains a limited amount. The heat from the old trees is vital to the survival of the Monarch, as they are susceptible to the cold that exists in the mountains, and can cause their deaths. Five colonies of the reserve are open to the public: Sierra Chincua and El Rosario in Michoacan, La Mesa, Piedra Herrada and El Capulin in the State of Mexico. El Rosario is the largest sanctuary in Michoacán, where the butterflies literally cover about 1,500 trees. The trees look like they covered in dead leaves when the Monarchs are resting; when copious amounts of Monarchs flutter their wings they make the sound of a gentle rain. In an effort to protect the Monarchs the US White House recently announced plans to build a butterfly highway. Forest restoration in Mexico›s Reserve and co-operation with US Fish and Wildlife Service and private organizations like Wildlife Without Borders and the Monarch Butterfly Fund are working together to support efforts in protecting the migration. Volunteers are always needed to help educate and encourage conservation of natural areas for the Monarchs to occupy and reproduce; planting flowers in urban areas also provides habitat for their journey. Donations are always welcome.
For all your Real Estate Needs and Excellent Bank Trust Document Preparation
Please call Rosarie Salerno US (520)777-0018, Local 383-8417 rosariesalerno@hotmail.com http://rosariesalerno.point2agent.com
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The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
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Headaches – and how to keep them away!
By Dr. Shelly Persad
Have you ever had a headache? I’m sure that’s a silly question as headaches are very common and affect just about everyone at some point in their life. There are 3 types of headaches: 1. Tension headaches are the most common. They can last from 30 minutes to several days and consist of a constant dull, achy feeling. The most common cause is subluxations in the upper back and neck, which can be eliminated by visiting your local chiropractor. 2. Migraine headaches are less common, but more intense. They affect more women than men, and can be due to lack of sleep, stress, flickering lights, strong odors, changing weather patterns, foods high in tyramine, and a constriction of blood vessels in the brain. 3. Cluster headaches are the least common, but are found in more men than women. They tend to occur at night, and can occur 1-4x/day over a period of several days. The pain is excruciating and often felt on one side of the head behind the eyes due to a dilation of the blood vessels in the brain. Will aspirin take your headache away? A study indicated that headaches are the 11th most frequent reason for a visit to the doctor. World-wide, more than 13,000 tons of aspirin are consumed per year, with a major portion utilized for headache relief. Now let me ask you this – how does that aspirin know to travel to your neck or upper back muscles or the blood vessels in your brain? It doesn’t! It travels in your blood stream throughout your
whole body going to every cell, tissue, and organ, creating disastrous effects, and acting as a bandaid for the headache. Over consumption of aspirin can actually lead to rebound headaches, as well as kidney and liver problems. Natural ways to keep headaches at bay: • Decrease your daily stress with activities such as meditation, yoga, breathwork, stretching, etc. • Mix 1 tbsp fish oil with 8 ounces of orange juice and drink • Massage peppermint oil onto your temples, back of your jaw, and forehead • Drink more water • Mix ¼ cup apple cider vinegar with 3 cups boiling water, hold towel over head as you breathe in the steam • Avoid exposure to nitrite compounds found in products such as heart medicine, hot dogs and other processed meats • Avoid monosodium glutamate (MSG) found in foods such as soy sauce, meat tenderizer, and a variety of packaged foods • Avoid exposure to poisons (such as insecticides, carbon tetrachloride, and toxic cleaning products) • Avoid lead (flakes of paint, lead batteries, lead-glazed pottery) • Avoid foods high in the amino acid tyramine (cheddar, brie, chocolate, pickled foods, and fermented foods) And don’t forget, studies show that chiropractic adjustments result in almost immediate improvement for headaches and have significantly fewer side effects and longer-lasting relief than commonly prescribed pain relievers. Even those who stop chiropractic care continue to experience sustained relief for up to four weeks after in contrast to those patients who rely on medication.
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The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
CLUBSANDORGANIZATIONS 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 A group dedicated to helping the stray animals by providing no-cost spay and neuter clinics, adoption, dog and cat food, medicine and medical care. The center is run solely on donations and is an Arizona 501(c)3 non-profit corporation so all of your donations are taxdeductible. The center is always in desperate need of dog, cat, kitten and puppy food, animal toys, bedding, cleaning supplies, old towels and blankets as well as medicine and monetary donations to pay vet bills, purchase animal food and medicine. Please drop off food/supplies directly to the center.
AMPI The Asociación Mexicana de Profesionales Inmobiliaros (AMPI), or the Mexican Association of Real Estate Professionals, Puerto Peñasco Chapter 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 States, 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 such as the Business Expo and A Taste of Peñasco. Business mixers are held occasionally, and the community is always invited. AMPI operates the local Multiple Listing Service (MLS) on behalf of our real estate clients, one of only 3 MLS services in all Mexico. 2014 OFFICERS: President: Rommel Bustamante President-Elect: Jorge Valdes V.P. Legal: Ricardo Bórquez V.P. Ethics: Wayne Corcoran V.P. Education: Gretchen Ellinger MLS V.P. President: Jonni Francis V.P. Public Relations: Richard Savino Secretary: John Fagundes V.P. Membership: Susie Flinn Treasurer: Rebecca Palomino V.P. Events: Jared Cranford VP Language & Culture: Fernando Curiel IS YOUR REAL ESTATE AGENT OR RENTAL AGENT OR PROPERTY MANAGER A MEMBER OF AMPI?
ADOPT-A-CLASSROOM
Provides basic school supplies, computers, copiers, chalkboards, etc. to local classrooms Founder: Barbara Olszewski: 383-4963 (602) 324-9529 mail@rockypointboattrips.com www.rockypointclassroom.com Donations can be dropped off at the Rocky Point Boat Trips Office or sent to Barb at: PO Box 695, Lukeville, AZ 85341
AGRUPACION GEORGE PAPNICOLAOU
BOOK & EXCHANGE
CASA HOGAR (ELDERLY HOME)
CHOLLA CHARITIES FOUNDATION
383-4399: 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 PAPSMEARS Friday 9AM-2PM by appointment only Please call 1 to 2 weeks prior
Rocky Point Times Office Ave. Pino Suarez (off Calle 13) Phone: 383-6325: Mon.-Wed. 9am-5pm www.rptimes.com Free Book, VHS and DVD exchange for all Rocky Point residents and visitors.
Director: Ruben Rodriguez Rico 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: Madre Silvia Gomez and drop it off at the home. You may drop checks or donations off at the Rocky Point Times office.
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.
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS AA Meetings The Passport Club 48 Campeche & Manuel Arista (next door to Galindo’s Café) English Speaking Meetings Mon.-Wed.-Fri. 10am-11am For more information call Conrad MX conrado4evryng@gmail.com - marsupis@gmail.com
AMERICAN LEGION POST MX 15 Located in the Mirador 141 Chihuahua & Matamoros (Across from the Pink Cadillac) Open daily 8AM - 8PM The Public is Welcome 2014 OFFICERS: Commander: Mike LaBarge First Vice Commander: Paul Raddatz General Meetings First Tuesday of every month at 6 pm (Oct-June) Contact the Post for dinner specials and special events scheduled throughout the year MagicJack (602) 539-2047 Mexico phone (011-52-638) 388-8841 Email post15mx@mail.com 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.
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@aol. comm 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.
BUNCO BABES Sandy Spain 388-0857/(044-638) 109-4109 Ladies play Bunco at 3:30pm on the 3rd Wednesday of the month October-June at Giuseppi’s on Blvd. Fremont.
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 non-profit 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. 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!
C.I.D.A Director: Joaquin Celaya Rendon Phone: 044-638-102-0514 Call for directions Shelter providing housing, food and care for those addicted to drugs and alcohol.
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: Gustavo Turati Manager: Maria Elena Garcia
(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.)
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.
CONNECTION CLUB Meets every Thursday at 4:00 pm at The Light House on Whale Hill. DICK STEELE (044-638) 105-0615 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.
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.
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
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.
CHOLLA BAY SPORTSMENS CLUB Also referred to as the CBSC Dues: $40, Payable to CBSC PO Box 1320, Lukeville, AZ 85341 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 and can aid in the transportation of critical victims. 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. 2012 OFFICERS President: Mike Dugan Vice-President: Pat Goodin: 382-5056 Secretary: Billie Crumbley: 382-5133 Treasurer: Enedina Otañez: 382-5142 Membership: Laura McIntyre 2012 BOARD MEMBERS Sal Otañez, Rhea Dugan, Don Schinidli, Paul Schoonover, Shirley McDonald, Tammy Hicks, Larry McIntyre, Kelly and Dave Adams The CBSC provides an invaluable service for those at sea and promotes good relations between American visitors and our Mexican neighbors.
CHILDREN’S HOME D.I.F. is building a children’s home on Calle Marcelo Pino and Callejon Benito Juarez. When completed, the home will be equipped to accommodate 50 children ranging in ages from newborns to 11 years. Children will be taken care of until their families have complied with the rehabilitation period, treatments, or requests by SDMF. The home is located on Calle Marcelo Pino and Callejon Benito Juarez, just behind the Basic Unit Rehabilitation Center of D.I.F.
EL GOLFO RUN Tom & Sandra O’Hare Rocky Point Times Newspaper 383-6325 or from U.S. (602) 476-1939 rockypointtimes@yahoo.com
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.)
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CLUBSANDORGANIZATIONS 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.
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 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.
GUARDIAN ANGELS Ramon Ramos: 388-5362/(044-638) 112-0350 ramonramos@prodigy.net.mx Started by Linda and Guy Scholey, and taken over by Ramon since their departure, the Guardian Angels puts on a Christmas party for Escuela La Montaña, the school for handicapped children. Every year donators select a special child to buy a gift for. With donations received, they are also able to provide hot meals for the children throughout the year.
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY Hábitat para la Humanidad, Mexico A.C. Pedro Martínez, English Spoken: 383-4323 Habitat for Humanity builds homes for families in need all over the world.
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.
LAS CONCHAS HOMEOWNERS ASSOC. 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
LIONS CLUB 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.
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.
NUEVA CREACION Drug & Alcohol Rehabilitation Center Sub Directors: Gregorio Soto Rodriguez and Guadalupe de Soto Phone: 044-638-105-9804 Calle Juan Aldama No. 527 Go to the new cemetary, turn right, go one block and turn left and 6 blocks ahead you will see the center.
OA Overeaters Anonymous Tuesdays 9:30AM Manuel Arista (some as AA) Phone: 044-638-103-3405 48 Campeche Ave.
OC3AN VIEW MINISTRY (A brand new ministry in good hands) Hosted on the spacious and breath taking property of Granada Del Mar Hotel in Mirador, OC3AN VIEW MINISTRY has opened its doors; a non-profit designed to serve ministries from all across the US and Mexico, to bring aide and comfort to folks in need in Puerto Peñasco. We are currently creating an onsite store for distribution of donations of furniture, clothing, appliances, tool and bedding. For Ministry information contact: Director Conrado Rodriquez conrado4evryng@gmail.com Co-coordinator Dave Kafka dkofka@cox.net
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 CHILDRENS FOUNDATION Founder: Steve Schwab Coordinator: Richard C. LaNasa Established 2003 520-232-2241 PO Box 70121, Tucson, AZ 85737 www.penascochildrensfoundation.org
PEÑASCO CHILDRENS FOUNDATION CON’T
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.
PEÑASCO SINGLES (PS) Is a group of local singles, both full time and part time residents. All singles are invited to join (no fee) this laid back group for the happy hours each Tuesday at 4:30 p.m. at the Puesta del Sol Restaurant beachside patio at the Playa Bonita Hotel and breakfast each Saturday at 9:00 a.m. at various restaurants in town. The Saturday location will be announced each Tuesday. For more information contact Emma or Marti and get on the email list for group announcements. Emma: (local home) 383-3273 or (magic jack) 702-359-1095. Marti: (local cell) 638-103-4027 or (magic jack) 520-284-0944 or (U.S. cell, works locally) 812-319-1463. Or, if you prefer, just show up at the Tuesday happy hour.
RED CROSS (CRUZ ROJA) CON’T
SOUTH OF THE BORDER SINGLES
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.
South of the Border Singles (SOB’s) meets every Wednesday at 4:00PM at Playa Bonita Restaurant for cocktails/dinner. Monthly business meetings first Wednesday at 5:30PM at Playa Bonita. Sunday 9AM gather for weekly 9:30AM breakfast at various RP restaurants. Other fun events, short trips, parties throughout the year. All singles welcome! Local contact: Robert Adams at Playa Bonita RV Park adibob@prodigy.net.mx, local 382-5034 or Magic Jack (602) 449-1030 or Jean McCauley at Las Conchas; jeanmcc61@ gmail.com Mexican cell phone is (044-638) 3869774 or Magic Jack is (520) 303-4332.
RED HAT LADIES LUNCHEON
2 FISH MINISTERIOS
Brenda Barden: 044-638-386-9197 The Puerto Peñasco Chapter gets together on the last Monday of the month at 1PM (Oct.June) to have lunch and show off their “red hats and purple dresses”. All ladies welcome. Call for reservations or info.
Founder: Pastor Stan Tedrow Peñasco Christian Fellowship
REHABILITATION CENTER
PINACATE BIOSPHERE RESERVE
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
Fundación para Conservación del Pinacate, A.C. Office Hours: 9AM - 5PM U.S. Mail: PO Box 745, Ajo, AZ 85321
Tab Gray: tab@rockypoint.com Family of God Christian Fellowship PO Box 738, Lukeville, AZ 85341
ROCKY POINT CHRISTMAS
PINACATE BIOSPHERE RESERVE 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.
PISTA LOS PATOS SAND DRAGS Phone: 383-3105 Super fast racers from all over the U.S. and Mexico race each other down the sandy track, which is located just north of town. Everyone welcome. Events are held throughout the year, call above for schedule and times.
PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS WOMEN 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.
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.
ST. VINCENT DE PAUL Ginger Phillips: (972) 742-3740 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
RED CROSS (CRUZ ROJA)
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.
EMERGENCY DIAL 060
SANTIAGO RUIZ SALCIDO ASSOCIATION
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.
This group offers help to people in their terminal cancer phase. It is comprised of a group of people who offer care to cancer patients who suffer from a terminal illness, when the time comes that the hospital can do nothing further. The patients are given support to help them have a better quality of life by receiving love, respect, and understanding in their final hours. Contact: awyspot@hotmail. com Santiago Ruiz Salcido Rocky Point cellular (044-638) 384-6166 The groups’ basic needs are adult diapers, Ensure shakes, medicines, hospital beds etc.
Business Phone: 383-2266 www.cruzrojapenasco.org.mx
Melchor Ocampo & Tecla Bustamante Donations accepted and welcomed at the Felowship Monday Friday 8AM - 2PM or can be dropped off at the Black Dog 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
UNCOMMON WOMEN ON COMMON GROUND GROUP Rosie Glover: 044-638-112-0134 Group meets 2nd Tuesday of each month at 5:30PM for something fun!
WEEKEND MISSIONS 323 Leon de La Barra and Madero (in the old Hotel Villa Granada) 383-1394/(480) 626-5440/(480) 503-8832 Founders: Mark, Jerry and Rusty Renovation Coordinator: Conrad Provides for the physical and spiritual needs of the very poor, widowed and orphaned. Donations of building supplies and other everyday supplies always welcome.
WOMEN’S SHELTER Centro de Rehabilitación para Mujeres La Esperanza A.C. Directora: Hna. Ana Krause: 044-638-102-0869 anaycruz@live.com From Blvd. Samuel Ocaña, turn north at sign on Pto. Ensenada. Go 10 blocks and the women’s center will be on your left, just before the last cross street.
YOUTH SPORTS FOUNDATION (638) 107-9936 Rick Busa: RBusa@ysf.com.mx 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.
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The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
Head Out to Rocky Point!
Head Out to Rocky Point is a personalized, door-to-door shuttle service from Phoenix, Arizona to Puerto Peñasco, Mexico. They pay attention to detail to make sure their guests needs are met on the journey to their vacation destination. The most important aspect of this business is “TRUST & DEPENDABILITY”. Mike Jarvinen & Lynelle Mitschele (owners) are trustworthy, reliable, and honest. They have held this reputation for ten years. They pick up their guests at their home, hotel, office, or Phoenix Sky Harbor airport. They can handle almost any size group with their 15 passenger, Chevy vans and cargo trailers for larger loads. They provide maps of the area, a current issue of the Rocky Point Times Newspaper, food & drink coupons and they will make restaurant and activity suggestions as well. They stop in Ajo, Az. for a break. Upon request they will stop at the Duty Free Liquor Store in Lukeville. Vasquez Liquor Store in Sonoyta is also a popular stopping place for tequila, beer & tacos. They are a “Door To Door Shuttle Service”, they will drive you to The Mayan Palace, Las Conchas, Sandy Beach, Cholla Bay or anywhere in between. Mike and Lynelle are your
best source for Rocky Point information. Lynelle has been going to Rocky Point since the l960’s. Her childhood neighbors & family friends, Lamar & Janice Welker (owners of the Ajo Chevron Gas Station & Mexico Auto Insurance) took her to their bungalow on the Playa Hermosa Beach, where she spent many summers. She also worked for Rita at Rocky Point Reservations, in Phoenix, where Lynelle was asked frequently if there was a doorto-door shuttle service to Rocky Point? So the concept was created, in 2005. Together as a team, Mike and Lynelle will share their experiences, knowledge, enthusiasm and passion for this rapidly growing, vibrant Mexican town on the Sea Of Cortez. Previous guests include, “Spring Breakers”, Fans Of Roger Clyne & The Peacemakers and Management Team, golf tournament entrants, volleyball & triathlon spectators, motorcycle rally enthusiasts, AA Round Up members, wedding parties, bachelor/ bachelorette parties & family reunions. They provide transportation for dental & surgical patients as well. Rocio Del Mar live-aboard dive boat depends on “Head Out” to transport scuba divers and all their gear to their boat in the marina. They have been given permission to pass “long border lines” on busy weekends so their guests don’t miss their flights. The airlines depend on “Head Out” to deliver lost luggage to Rocky Point. This “One Of A Kind”, reliable, personalized shuttle service comes highly recommended. It’s A Great Day To “Head Out” To Rocky Point! Group and one-way rates are available Wanna Go? Let Us Know! www. HeadOutToRockyPoint.com (602) 9710166 or 1-866-443-2368.
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The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
An Oasis in Ajo By Andrew Sisk
get them all with handmade milkshakes or a beer in a frosted glass. Oh, and the lattes
When you think of the word ‘vacation’,
are also the best for many miles around,
various images might come to mind, like
hot, iced, or flavored. Individual requests
walking on the Great Wall of China, or
are welcome as everything is handmade to
taking all the kids to Wally World. Those
order, and you can order ahead of time by
are big vacations, big and expensive. Then,
calling (520) 387-4455. For a quick take-
there are small vacations. For example, a
out.
long drive down a peaceful desert highway
The pleasant beauty of the view while
to a part of the world you’ve never seen,
dining can’t be overstated. On a nice day,
but so close. Part of the charm of small
which is what they have 90% of the time
vacations is seeing real communities
in Ajo, the central plaza is something to
up close and personal. For those taking
cherish. Weddings are held there. Many
small vacations in southwest Arizona,
annual festivals take place there. Children
a stop, or even a stay, in the small town
play in the green grass, and for a town
of Ajo, provides a chance for this kind of
center, it’s the most restful and idyllic
experience. In the heart of the Sonoran
anywhere around.
desert, Ajo is a gateway to the Organ
The Cafe serves the whole community.
Pipe National Monument, Cabeza Prieta
Complete meals for the whole family are
Wildlife Reserve, and point of entry to
available at this historic location. Beer and
Sonoyta, Mexico (on your way to Rocky
wine are enjoyed in an outdoor patio or
Point). It also has a unique gem of a central
an inside dining room, and there are even
plaza which is a destination in itself.
options for kids, like the grilled cheese,
One favorite spot in the plaza is the
or the Ajo-mini-burgers, tiny delicious
Oasis Cafe. It’s a small cafe open 8 to 6
hamburgers, which adults also love, and
Monday through Friday, and 9 to 3 on
the Oasis Cafe will cater events in Ajo,
Saturday and Sunday. It’s locally and
large groups and small. Best of all, it’s
independently owned and run, as are
not a fast-food pit-stop that will soon be
all of the shops in the Ajo plaza. Here,
forgotten as a standard on-the road drive-
patrons will find access to free WiFi, a
by, but a part of an experience that is one-
range of espresso coffees, surprisingly
of-a-kind. That’s because, as is increasingly
delicious sandwiches, soups and salads,
understood, eating and shopping locally is
beers, wines, ice-cream and more. It really
the best way to get to know a place, and
is an oasis in the desert.
this place is worth getting to know.
The Cafe gets its name from its historic
If you’re interested in the idea of a
location, the old Oasis Theater that was a
local experience on your trip, or need a
part of the original design of the old Ajo
place to stop to recharge on the way to,
plaza. Right now, plans are being drawn
or from, Phoenix or Tucson, put the Ajo
to remake the Oasis Cafe into a working
plaza on your list, and in particular the
theater, restaurant, and cinema space
Oasis cafe. Also, don’t be afraid to ask the
again. That will be realized over the next
staff, or the owner, - his name is Andrew
few years.
and he is always there, about the town,
The favorites at The Oasis Cafe are its
what there is to do in Ajo, and anything
gourmet sandwich lunches. These include
else that is on your mind. The thing about
the Reuben sandwich, Red Chili Turkey
a locally owned business is that what you
sandwich with Chipotle and roasted red
find there is an increasingly rare vacation
pepper, and the JP Special, starring hot
experience, that is an authentic local
lean pastrami, cole slaw, and Swiss cheese.
connection.
The burgers also get rave reviews. You can
Good travels.
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RECIPES Additional tips for preparation
So that the steak is nice and juicy, it should be at room temperature before frying. By Walter Malchow
This month you can enjoy 2 different Steak Recipes.
Bistecca with lime salt INGREDIENTS FOR 4 SERVINGS
Steak with Gorgonzola and mushrooms INGREDIENTS • For 2 servings • 2 Beef steaks, (about 2.5 cm thick, à 150 g) • 150 g mushrooms • 2 tablespoons oil • salt, pepper • 1 tablespoon butter, • 50 g gorgonzola, • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
PREPARATION 1. Beef steaks take 15 min. Before cooking from the refrigerator. Clean and cut mushrooms into slices. 2. Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a pan. Season meat with salt and pepper, fry light brown on each side. Place on an ovenproof dish and in a hot oven (not recommended circulating air) at 180 degrees on the grill on the middle rack for 10 min. Finish cooking. 3. Meanwhile, with 1-tablespoon butter, fry mushrooms light brown. Season with salt and pepper. 4. Remove meat from oven, spread the Gorgonzola it and let it rest for 3 minutes. Mix Gravy under the mushrooms. Meat and mushrooms dish, Serve sprinkled with chopped parsley and 1-2 tbsp freshly ground black pepper.
• • • • • • • •
10 stalks thyme 2 small garlic cloves, (young garlic) 40g butter 1 big lime 2 tsp sea salt 2 T Bone- steaks,(700-800 g) In addition Aluminum foil
PREPARATION 1. Thyme leaves; pluck and finely chop. Garlic press; melt butter and sauté the garlic briefly colorless. Add Thyme. 2. Lime zest finely rubs and mixes with fleur de sel. 3. Heat a grill pan until sizzling. Place meat in a pan over high heat for about 2 minutes per side. Fry, season with salt. Put meat on a baking sheet, sprinkle with the spice-butter. Bake in preheated oven on the 2nd shelf from the bottom at 180 degrees (convection not recommended) and cook 11-12 minutes, turning once. Remove the meat from the oven, season with pepper and wrap with spice butter in tinfoil let rest 5 minutes. Remove the meat from the foil. Loosen meat from the bone, cut into slices and serve sprinkled with a little lime salt. These vegetables are my recommended sides (peas with pancetta and garlic, green beans with lemon, Broad bean seeds with pecorino, grilled fennel and radicchio). Bon appetite German Brats Authentic German Sausages (044-638) 110-4970
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Riding Blind Grand Canyon Tour Mules
By Mike Bibb
Having visited Rocky Point and the Grand Canyon National Park, I’ve noticed several discernible differences between the two tourist attractions; one has miles of white sandy beaches and the other is a big gash in the ground. The result, we’re told, from millions of years of soil erosion. There are similarities, however; both have water close by. Puerto Peñasco aka “Rocky Point” to most folks - resides along the northern extremes of the Sea of Cortez, while at the same time billions of gallons of precious Rocky Mountain spring water slips past the Coors Brewery as it flows through the canyon to generate hydro-electric power and irrigate farm fields further south. Also, just as vendors in RP offer horseback rides along a pristine shoreline, the Grand Canyon has its mule excursions into the abyss, a park maintenance necessity and tourist favorite for over 100 years. Not often discussed is the physical condition of the animals involved in the two commercial endeavors. Likewise, while the missions are comparable - transporting people - their work environments are totally opposite. If a RP horse stumbles and falls, he and rider quickly topple onto a soft beach, whereas if a canyon mule missteps, it’s a long way to the bottom. But in the era of handicap accessible buildings, sidewalks, transportation services and sporting venues, it was inevitable state and federal parks would be mandated to offer careers to animals needed in specialized situations - such as tour mules for the Grand Canyon. In keeping with federal “Animals With Disabilities” guidelines, it is now required a certain percentage of mules be blind and deaf or nearly blind and deaf and over 30 years old. Which, I understand, is considered senior citizen age for a mule. If the mules also suffer from PTSD, ADD,
STD or indicate symptoms of addiction to controlled substances or entered the country illegally, then special tax-exempt compensations can be granted under Department of Homeland Security’s new pilot anti-terrorist enforcement policy - “Mules Welcomed --- Donkeys Not So Much.” A similar program has also been implemented at the state level. In accordance with Department of Labor requirements, “Mules Are People, Too,” seeks to advance employment opportunities of mules previously excluded from many of America’s Fortune 500 corporations. Package delivery giants UPS and FedEx have recently hired several hundred of the pack animals in their “Going-Green” fuel saving initiative as replacements for retiring older gas and diesel powered vehicles. The U.S. Post Office has also agreed to idle thousands of local delivery Jeeps and reassign drivers to more sure-footed, but not as swift, service mules. A letter may take a few more days or weeks to reach its destination, but delivery is guaranteed within a “reasonable” time period. “Reasonable” has been defined by the USPS as being sometime between January and December of the same or following year. Except during a leap year when an additional three months is added in order to compensate for the irregular orbital path of Saturn’s third moon. During a required pre-ride orientation presentation, mule riders are given the opportunity to question GC National Park
Supervisor Ted “Mule Skinner” Stinson, a longtime NPS official. The most common question asked concerning the newly implemented law is how safe is it to ride a blind, deaf and crotchety old mule down the canyon trail? “Safer than you’d think,” according to park supervisor Stinson. “In the short time we’ve been using the handicap mules, there have only been 26 instances of near-accidents and only one reported actual fatality. Apparently the mule became disoriented and turned left when he should have turned right. Fortunately both the rider and mule embedded themselves on a ledge several hundred feet below the trail and we were able to extract the mangled bodies before lunch.” When asked if the incident would adversely impact the future of the Animals With Disabilities mule program, Stinson calmly replied “No. In fact, accidents are encouraged and actually contribute to enhanced safety procedures. Possible accidents and fatalities are factored into every agendum and closely monitored to insure compatibility with existing park service codes, health care costs and PETA directives. An occasional mishap is bound to happen from time to time.”
treaties regarding UN recognized canyon and open pit mining ordinances. “For insurance purposes” Stinson reminds the attendees, “park service regulations require mule riders maintain a one-million dollar accident policy. If, God forbid, some misfortune happens on the trail and the mule falls into the canyon, then the park is compensated for its lost. If there is any money remaining from the insurance policy after paying mule related expenses, it is given to the park employees’ annual Thanksgiving Treats for Tots program.” “What about the rider” a visitor asked, “aren’t they insured by the policy?” “We assume the rider is already covered by uninsured motorists insurance or Obama Care” Stinson replied. “It is not the park’s responsibility to guarantee a hazardous-free adventure. That’s impossible. All we can do is adhere to existing OSHA and EPA rules in making certain the park is faultless if the mule stumbles or the rider is tossed thousands of feet to the canyon floor. Life has risks and a trip into the canyon is no different.” Realizing the park’s liability for possible accidents or consequences caused from unexpected mule or equipment malfunctions, every rider is also expected to sign Form
Still, it seems unusual that blind and deaf animals would be used in such precarious work. Again, Stinson didn’t agree, instead insisting “It is no more unusual than having blind airline pilots. Why do you think they invented the auto-pilot and black-box?” Reminded that the auto-pilot and blackbox is required equipment installed into all large commercial airplanes, Stinson persisted in defending the new mule rides. “Apples to oranges” he said. “A mule can’t be expected to have auto-pilot and carry cumbersome blackbox recording devices. That’s just not practical. Instead, we try to make sure the riders can see well enough to help the mules navigate the trails. Prior to being assigned a mule we test the rider’s vision acuity. If a rider cannot read the big E at the top of the chart, we will put him on a mule that has adequate vision in at least one eye.” Continuing in his explanations of what is officially dubbed “Safety As You’re Walking, Hiking And Transporting” - (SAYWHAT) - Stinson makes sure every rider is given a detailed brochure outlining congressional legislation enacted to insure compliance with previous and current domestic and foreign
G-361.5c/d(g), a waiver which basically releases the park service, its employees, equipment, lodging facilities, food services, trash collectors, wildlife, roadside vagrants and associates which may or may not be involved in park operations from possible criminal or civil litigation. However, the waiver does not exempt from prosecution any lawyer soliciting clients alleging wrongful death or injury from mule caused accidents. With all of this in mind, I’ve come to the conclusion I’d rather take my chances on a Rocky Point horseback ride. Better yet, I think I’ll simply kick-back in a beach recliner, beverage in hand and watch the saddled equines shuffle by. PS - Most of this article is complete fabrication, drawn from real life observations. By the way, while there have been mule riding accidents over the years, there have been no reported tourist fatalities in the history of the Grand Canyon tours. In 1951, a mule handler working for a concessionaire of the park, died in a mule related accident. Usually, fatalities at the Grand Canyon involve people acting stupidly and doing things they shouldn’t do.
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Puerto Peñasco Casual By Vince Deadmond
People ask me, “Why do you spend time in Puerto Peñasco during the summer months?” Generally it’s ten degrees cooler than Phoenix, the breeze off the Sea of Cortez can make it seem cooler yet, and the water temperature is around 80 degrees. The fly fishing can be quite good, the place is not crowded, you can get in and enjoy your favorite restaurant. Generally I can dress a little more casual. My wife reminds me that my casual could be considered unkept, tatty, or even scruffy if I ventured very far from the Playa de Oro Trailer Park. I’ll admit that I spend much more time planning my fly fishing gear needs than I consider my wardrobe. I usually bring at least 3 fly rods, six or seven fly reels, multiple fly lines, and hundreds of flies that look like bait fish, shrimp, or crab imitations. Usually I have some new gear that I am wanting to try. Most of my clothing choices revolves around being in the sun, fly fishing, and being on the beach. So, being cool, and functional are more important to me, than being stylish. I probably have packed two fishing shirts and two swim trunks for my weekend in Peñasco. It’s not that I don’t buy good stylish functional fly fishing clothing, the labels in my closet are Orvis, Columbia, Patagonia, and other name brand goods, some folks just don’t think much of them as a fashion statement. Again I look at them for their function. Keeping the sun from damaging my skin, is a great idea. These shirts, shorts, and pants have a sun blocking rating much like sun screen. A shirt that has a Ultroviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating of 30 would give you more protection than one rated at 15. Another function is the ability to carry your fishing stuff, and the large cargo pockets help with
this, even if it is a fashion faux pas. Because fly fishers are frequently in and out of the water, fabrics that are quick drying are a good choice. Footwear choices for me need to be more sturdy than the classic flip flop. If you are on some sharp rocks, or shells you will appreciate the upgrade to the Keen or Teva sandals. Casual dress has come to mean dressing like a slob, and that currently is the height of fashion. So, your tank top, gym shorts, and flip flops won’t look out of place even if you didn’t look in the mirror before you go out. Just remember, the only place you would be over dressed, would be in the Walmart shoppers photos. Thinking lowest common denominator, all the time, really shouldn’t be something to aspire to. It is refreshing to see folks more put together when they go out for dinner. I know I am being selfish, but it does improve my dining experience. Here is my one good tip for dressing up, and looking good all evening when going out for dinner. The Merlot colored shirt, polo or button down, looks good even if you spill a little red wine or barbecue on it. I’ll be the first to admit that some of my fashion looks are awful. I had one recently where my fly fishing buddy, Dick Brooks was laughing at me, and telling me that he was expecting a Polish tourist to come up to me and ask directions in Polish. Let me explain. I had hiked on the beach in new sandals and had roughed up my feet. So, there I was in a fishing shirt, loud print swim trunks, black socks, and sandals to protect my feet. Yes, maybe it was too casual even for Puerto Peñasco, and I would move up on the list of worst dressed Walmart shoppers. Vince Deadmond The Fly Fishing Hardware Guy can be reached at Best Hardware 237 N Apache Trail Apache Junction, AZ vince@ajbest. com and at (480) 982 7461.
Vince Deadmond “The Fly Fishing Hardware Guy” can be reached at Best Hardware 237 N Apache Trail Apache Junction, AZ vince@ajbest.com and 480 982 7461.
Fish Identification Giant Black Sea Bass (Mero Prieto)
Body dark gray to black and has numerous fine teeth. This fish is fairly common to the north of the Midriff. They feed on Mackerel, Lobster, Tuna, Shark and large chunk baits and can grow to over 500 lbs. Giant Black Sea Bass prefer deep rocky bottoms. They are strong fighters and make excellent table fair.
Gulf Grouper (Baya)
This Sea Bass is the most common large Grouper in the upper and central Gulf. They can grow to about 5ft. in length and weigh up to 200 lbs. In the summer these fish usually are found at depths below 100 ft., but in late fall they move to shallower reefs, then back to deep water in early summer. They prefer rocky bottoms with caves and crevices. They are veracious predators and strong fighters when hooked.
Broom Tail Grouper (Garropa Jasplada)
The body color is olive brown with dark irregular blotches on the sides. Unlike other Groupers it has a tagged tail fin. Groupers prefer deep waters and takes large baits and jigs. Very strong fighter, but dives into rocks. They can weigh up to 100 lbs., and make excellent eating.
Leopard Grouper – Spotted phase / Leopard Grouper golden phase
Leopard or Golden Grouper (Sardinera) – This fish has two color phases; a golden phase which is uncommon and the spotted phase. The spotted phase has small reddish brown spots and a grayish brown black with white margins on the fins. They prefer shallow water and feed at dawn and dusk. Average weight is 5-25 lbs., but can grow up to 50 lbs. A good strong fighter that uses rocks to his advantage. Makes for great eating.
Spotted Cabrilla (Pinta, Cabrilla Pinta)
The body and fins are covered by reddish-brown spots. General coloration of the body is gray with dusky bars. The coloration looks very much like a Sand Bass, but this fish is much larger (up to 30 lbs.). This fish has rounded dorsal, anal and tail fins. They are found abundantly in rocky structures and will hit feathers, jigs and fresh dead baits. Good fighters and excellent eating.
Barred Pargo (Pargo Mulato)
This fish is found throughout the Sea of Cortez both inshore and offshore. They are deep bodied, greenish-gold on their back with red on their lower sides and about 8 dark bars across the body. They average 3 -10 lbs., but can grow up to 30 lbs. Pargo are a good fighting fish that takes chunk baits fished on the bottom and are very good eating.
Red Snapper (Huachinango)
The body and fins are bright red with a pink to white belly. They prefer deep water around 250 ft. and fee mainly at night. The average weight is 2-5 lbs. but do get up to 15 lbs. Red Snapper takes baits fished near the bottom and yo-yo’d jigs. Excellent eating.
Spotted Sand Bass (Cabrilla Pintica)
A very abundant fish found inshore and offshore in the upper Sea of Cortez. Their color is an olivebrown with many black spots. The Spotted Sand
Bass frequents shallow to moderate depths over sand and rocky bottoms. Takes live bait, small lures and feathers. Makes good live bait for larger fish, also is very good eating. Averages 1-3 lbs.
Cortez Halibut (Lenguado)
A flat fish with both eyes on one side. Found throughout the Sea of Cortez both inshore and offshore. Dark brown above with 8 -10 dark spots and a white underside. Prefers sandy bottoms. Takes drifted live or dead baits and small feathers. The mouth has a large single row of sharp teeth in each jaw. They average 3-5 lbs., but can get up to 25 lbs., and are excellent eating.
Finescale Trigger Fish (Cotchi)
Found throughout the Sea of Cortez, both inshore and offshore. Body color ranges from brownish to a blueish gray. They are voracious feeders and will take almost any bait and most jigs. Cotchi are very strong fighters and an excellent eating fish. Average weight is 2 – 4 lbs., but can weigh more than 8 lbs. and grow to 2 ½ ft. in length.
Pacific Sharpnose Shark (Bironche)
This Shark is blueish gray on the back shading into a reddish brown on it’s sides. The Sharpnose has non-serrated teeth with a deep notch on one side. This shark is commonly caught out of Puerto Peñasco and is the most common requiem shark in the Gulf. Grow to 4ft. in length.
Scalloped Hammerhead (Pez Martillo)
Deep olive to brownish gray with a white belly. Has a long upper tail lobe and a evenly scalloped head. This Shark is common throughout the Gulf and can reach up to 12 ft. in length.
Sierra Mackerel (Pez Sierra)
F o u n d throughout the Sea of Cortez inshore in large schools. The Sierra body colors are dark blue on the back and silver on its sides with several rows of golden spots along the sides. An excellent game fish that hits jigs and live bait. These fish are a very good eating especially as ceviche. They are also used extensively for bait. The average weight is 1-5 lbs. but can reach 15 lbs. and 3 ft. long.
Paloma Pompano (Palometa Pampanito)
Pompano are common throughout the Gulf. They are usually taken from shore or in shallow water on shiny spoons and lures. The body of the Pompano is dark on top with bright silvery sides and black tips on the dorsal fins. An excellent eating fish that grows up to 20 inches and up to 5lbs.
Yellowtail (Jurel De Aleta Amarilla)
F o u n d throughout the Sea of Cortez except in the far noth. Colors consist of a brassy yellow strip along its side and a blue/gray to olive above. Prefers live bait or jigs trolled or yo-yo’d. The fillets are best when marinated and then barbecued. Yellowtails gro to 5 ft. long and can weigh up to 80 lbs.
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FISH. The Restaurant. Culinary Art at Its Finest!
By Joe Houchin
To some, it will be an epicurean dream, to others, simply one of the best, if not the best, meals they’ve ever enjoyed, and to all who venture up atop Whale Hill to FISH. The Restaurant, will enter into a dining experience they never dreamed could happen, even in a fishing village known for its variety of fresh seafood. FISH. The Restaurant is a dining adventure by internationally revered Chef Luca Appendino, located in the same venue where the Lighthouse Restaurant offered its fare for so many years. Most know Chef Luca from his first fully owned venture, the now iconic Pane e Vino, a classy restaurant appointed in simple elegance serving Italian and international haute cuisine on Boulevard Benito Juarez, which was a breakout success since it opened in June of 2011.
Chef Luca had been contemplating a seafood restaurant for quite some time. He knew he needed an especially unique location to match the level of quality and service he wanted for his second restaurant. One day almost out of the “blue” his dream was answered. The owners of The Lighthouse Restaurant had decided to exit the food and beverage business after many decades of serving the Puerto Peñasco community of American expats and U.S. visitors. They loved his food and his wife, Karina’s business acumen and approached the couple with a proposition to take over their venue and to do with it as they pleased, unaware that Chef Luca had already been thinking of a new venture. The result? FISH. The Restaurant opened on February 25th of 2015.
Luca opened Pane e Vino Ristorante in June of 2011 and has endeared the loyalty of hundreds of diners with impeccable service and unsurpassed cuisine ever since. Karina is a big part of his life and their businesses.
The caliber of culinary skills you will experience at FISH are neither ordinary or expected. For example, have you ever had flounder sliced as thick a rib-eye steak, served melt-in-your-mouth moist with an exquisitely mixed sauce? Prepare yourself for this one.
Chef Luca lived in the seaside town of San Remo in Italy, having moved there from Turin at the age of 7. By the age of 14 he knew his career was to be fulfilled in the kitchen of an elegant restaurant. Luca enrolled in Instituto Alberghiero San Remo, one of the world’s most prestigious culinary arts schools, requiring five full years of intensive studies and practical application experience in every phase of food and beverage service and preparation, including dining room service, concierge desk, wine classifications, haute cuisine planning and preparation, even learning French and German, and much more. Students must study for two full years before deciding which specialty of the business they want to pursue, followed by three more years of intensely supervised apprenticeship in each of the three Institute-owned three, four and five star restaurants. Every Alberghiero graduate is scouted and hired directly from the Institute. At the young age of 19, Luca became Sous Chef of the Five Star Miramare Restaurant in San Remo, a town, by the way, known for its quality restaurants. After two years there he served in the Army for one year and returned to become the Chef of Four Star Villa María Restaurant before being offered the Chef position at the renowned Five Star Tre Pinni Restaurant where he served for six years. In 2002 a longtime family friend came to San Remo and offered Luca a job as Head Chef of his three Tutti Santi restaurants in the Phoenix area. During the eight years he was with Tutti Santi he opened two more restaurants for the family friend. Chef Luca relocated to Puerto Peñasco in 2010 and opened the Mare Blu as Chef and partner. That same year, he met Karina Ortiz, a beautiful young lady with a captivating personality, contagious smile and business acumen par excellence, who was to become his wife in October of 2013.
Event Planning at Sonoran Sky Resort By Richard Scott for RockyPoint.com
Now, Chef Luca brings us a restaurant that goes beyond every expectation of the most discriminating culinary connoisseur, raising the bar of gastronomic eminence to the extent that it may be destined to become a destination of its own for both residents and visitors. FISH. The Restaurant is open from noon to 10:00PM every day except Monday. For reservations or more information you can call Karina at (044-638) 110-7137.
In the upstairs portion of his new venue, Chef Luca has opened a beautifully appointed lounge called simply “Sky”. Guests are treated to stunning views of the Sea of Cortez and the Puerto Peñasco beachfront resort condominium sky lines across the bay from any seat inside or outside on its spacious patio. And sunsets are always spectacularly camera-ready from anywhere in the restaurant or the lounge. Sky is open from 6:00PM to Midnight every evening except Monday, with internationally known singer, songwriter and guitarist, Jesse Gerardo, performing Fridays and Saturdays from 9:00PM to Midnight.
This article is brought to you by the Sonoran Resorts Sales Group, www.sonoranresorts.mx, Jim Ringquist, Director of Sales and Marketing.
Olympia Watson carries a notebook with ‘All you need is love’ printed on the cover. “This is my philosophy” she tells me. As Event Planner for the Sonoran Sky Resort, her love for creating just the right setting for an anniversary, a wedding, or any get-together is necessary for success. So is being really organized. “Can you be playing when the guests walk in?” She asks the sax player while posing for a publicity photo. We stand next to the elegant leaded glass doors of the Los Volcanes Salon, inside the Sonoran Sky. “This is an intimate dinner party for Valentines’ Day, just a few tables. But we can have receptions for 200 people here, plus a band.”
The Girl from Ipanema plays as people take their seats. Candlelight and gold table cloths, champagne glasses and waiters in black and white. A pleasant murmur of conversation as a full moon rises outside the tall arched window. “My work as planner is free for clients using Sonoran Sky Events” says Olympia. “We offer great packages for beach weddings right here at the resort”. Chocolate covered strawberries complete the dinner, and the guests head to the elevators. Olympia leads the way. “Oly” someone asks, “what’s next?” Pressing the ground floor button, she smiles over her shoulder “A surprise.” The swimming pools glow neon blue in the night as we pass them on our way to the beach. A strong ocean breeze, not there before dinner, tries to push us back into the lobby. This is not the surprise Oly had in mind. Two helpers struggle to hold the orange paper balloon, as another flicks a lighter over and over, trying to light the candle that will make it fly. “Play something please.” Touching the arm of the sax player as she goes, Olympia casually walks to where the guests gather. Quickly she gets one, and then a second balloon lit. Disaster averted. A toast! Glasses raised to a wonderful time at a beautiful place. Everyone ‘ooohh’s as the glowing balloons slowly rise. Up above the lights of the Sonoran Sky Resort, the moon waits to meet them. As if it was planned. You can reach Sonoran Sky Events at (011-521-638) 108-2107.
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BARB’S DOG RESCUE Avoid The Border Blues NEWSLETTER Smoother Border Crossing “Help Us Help Them”
By Barb Mumaugh
Everyone at Barb’s Dog Rescue wants to welcome you to Rocky Point this summer! We have numerous outdoor activities and water sports for you to participate in, great restaurants and shops and so much more. Don’t forget one of the city’s most unique highlights during your time here – the countless smiling faces and wagging tails that belong to the puppies and dogs at our rescue! These animals would love nothing more than to receive a visit from you and if you have a little extra time, a scratch behind the ear or a few tennis ball throws would make their week! The summer is an especially difficult time of the year for homeless dogs and cats on the streets of Rocky Point. Our beautiful city with its pristine beaches and gorgeous blue ocean can be extremely hot for an animal that does not have a roof over its head for shade and protection or plentiful water to drink each day. Dehydration and heat exhaustion can set in quickly and at Barb’s Dog Rescue, we have many dogs and puppies that are turned into us that are in terrible condition and on the verge of death as a result of the heat. Our team of volunteers and rescue workers are on duty 24 hours a day helping the animals that are turned into us and work tirelessly nursing them back to health. All animals are given vaccinations immediately upon
arrival at the rescue and will be given their full required set of shots depending on their age during their stay at Barbs. The dogs and puppies are de-wormed, treated for skin irritations, infections or any other illnesses or conditions that they may be suffering from. They are seen by a local vet and spayed and neutered when they are healthy enough (or old enough) to undergo the procedure as well. We would not be able to help all of these dogs and puppies without your support and all donations are greatly appreciated. Donations can either be dropped off at the rescue, mailed to P.O. Box 116 Lukeville 85341 or at www.barbsdogrescuerp.com. We can also coordinate donations to be transported from Phoenix to Rocky Point. Please visit us on our Barb’s Dog Rescue Facebook page as well for updates, pictures and news.
Please visit us online http://www.facebook.com/BarbsDogRescue or our website www.BarbsDogRescueRP.com Barb’s Mexico cell # (638) 114-1659 or her US # (602) 774-1578. Email barbsdogrescue@gmail.com. We can pick up donations in the US and Puerto Peñasco.
By Gretchen Ellinger
Since I am blessed to be a Rocky Point “full timer”, I rarely think about crossing the border any more. For me at least, gone are the days of racing to Paradise after work on Friday, hopefully leaving work a bit early, playing hard all day Saturday, while somewhere in the back of mind the dilemma is tumbling around - when is the best time to leave Rocky Point in order to maximize the fun and minimize the pain of going home? You have probably tried leaving after breakfast on Sunday (just one more chile relleno breakfast from Xochitl’s in Cholla Bay before leaving), leaving at noon (after the breakfast buffet at Puesta del Sol), leaving “early afternoon” after a too-short day in the sun, leaving late afternoon after squeezing in an entire day in the sun before your 3-6 hour drive. We fulltimers try to cross the border in the middle of the week, in order to give the weekenders as much time and space as they need. Recently I received a blast border blues. I found myself heading north on a lovely Sunday afternoon in late April. It was not a holiday weekend, just a weekend. There were some activities in Rocky Point to which people would have gravitated, the weather was gorgeous, and it was raining in both Phoenix and Tucson, and snowing in Flagstaff - of course people wanted to be in Paradise! I ate a leisurely breakfast, made sure my house was in order, packed the car for a trip to Kingman, usually about 6 hours, and left Rocky Point at 1:40 p.m. I noticed that there was a good bit of traffic headed north, most of whom passed me as if I were tied to a post, even though I usually drive a few, okay sometimes more than a few, miles an hour over the speed limit. But never mind that...I stopped for tacos, then I bought gas in Sonoita - it’s less expensive there, you know - and started up the hill to that last straight stretch before reaching the border. There was a traffic jam right at junction where the big Pemex with the Circle K is located
- the problem was the gringos headed to the USA sorting themselves into 2 lanes of traffic waiting to cross the border. WHAT??? Honest to goodness, I sorted myself into one of the lanes at 3:00 p.m., and I handed my passport to the CBP agent at 6:04 p.m. Three hours 4 minutes to cross the border, and I still had 5 hours to drive! And it wasn’t even a busy weekend! While in line, I had time to reminisce about how I used to do that sit in that line of cars - often, because I loved my trips to Rocky Point so much, that nearly any price was acceptable for a weekend in Paradise. I remembered three different times seeing cars catch fire in the line, and people having difficulty making room for the bomberos. I also remembered people getting out of their cars and walking alongside them, shopping or chatting. Since I sit in that line with my windows down, I have heard more than one argument and many children crying waiting in line brings out the worst in everyone. Some things are exactly the same fifteen years later. There are solutions to the border blues. Leave as early as possible on Sunday morning - the earlier you reach the border the shorter the line will be. Or try leaving late, as in really early Monday morning; if you are at the border when it opens at 6 a.m., you can be at work by 9 a.m. in many cities in Arizona. If you think you might be caught in a line at the border, a bit of planning will make an easier wait a cooler with drinking water, damp washcloths, and snacks will help, as will something for the youngsters to do. Be sure your car is in good condition before making the trip to Rocky Point - hours of idling in a line at the border in hot weather will bring out the worst in your car’s condition. Turn off the air conditioning and roll down the windows to keep your car from overheating - yes, it’s hot, but your car is much less likely to catch fire. You can check the border wait times before you leave on the US Customs and Border Patrol website at https://apps.cbp.gov/bwt. Have a safe trip home, and come back soon!
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Laguna Shores Oceanfront Resort recommends the following ways to stay in touch with your family while you’re enjoying your vacation City Code (area code) is 638. There are complete dialing instructions in every issue of The Rocky Point Times Newspaper and it covers absolutely everything including dialing 800#’s. Pick one up and keep it handy. By Lannette Phipps
One of the main concerns of vacationing beyond transportation and lodging is how to stay in touch with family and friends while you’re in Rocky Point, Mexico. Now that the internet is all over the town, it is the best way to stay in touch via email, Skype, Facebook, MagicJack, and various Chat forums. If you have a laptop, I strongly recommend you get a MagicJack, which works everywhere you have internet – in every country. Laguna Shores Resort does have internet service so staying in touch with your loved ones is easy, but remember that you are in Mexico and the internet is not 100% guaranteed as is the case in most places you go online.
I have broken “communicating” into two categories to make it easier: those who travel to Rocky Point a few times a year; and those who travel once every couple months or more. To start, the very first thing you need to know is Mexico’s Country Code which is 52. Rocky Point’s
Vacationers who Rocky Point, Mexico often: 1. U.S. Phone with Mexico Plan or “Roaming” My fiancé and I live in Rocky Point, at Laguna Shores Resort, full-time and travel to the States usually once a month. We both have plans though TelCel which provides us a local Rocky Point number and allows us to roam globally. The only problem is that we cannot use our Mexican phones from the border to Ajo, AZ anymore, which is where I travel to at least once a month. Once we hit Phoenix, our phones are usable again. Wayne does a lot of business with clients that live in the U.S. and Canada and needs a reliable phone that provides a U.S. number. We do have MagicJack, but as some of you well know it is often a choppy or delayed conversation and fully dependent on the strength of the internet. So, it is not 100% reliable. Wayne opted for the “Viva Mexico” plan through AT&T (in the U.S.) and added a second line for me so I can communicate while I am in Ajo, AZ or anywhere else. I recommend the “Viva Mexico” Plan for anyone who travels to Rocky Point often. It works in the U.S. and Mexico and is very reliable and you can add extra lines as well as data and texting plans.
Be aware that if you use your data while you are here in Mexico you will be charged roaming charges. Curious as to the data roaming charges we decided to test it one day – using data as we normally do – by this I mean just downloading email, using Facebook and other apps, but not downloading videos, surfing the net or watching videos on YouTube and it came out to $10 USD for one day! So, turn off your data roaming while you are in Rocky Point unless your emails are urgent and you can’t download them using a wireless connection. Be aware of the text messages as well. When you are in Mexico an outgoing text will cost you .50-cents. We thought because we had unlimited texting that they were free in the U.S. and Mexico – not so. Even taking those two factors into consideration, it’s still a great plan at a great price if you vacation in Rocky Point often and want to stay in touch. Plans change all the time so check AT&T directly to see what the latest and greatest plans are. I have not found any other carrier that works as well as AT&T though many report that they can use their Verizon phones – even Verizon pay as you go. Last time I looked, Verizon does not cover Rocky Point, Mexico, but sometimes the phones do work. If you have experience with any other carriers that work, please leave a comment so we can let others know. 2. AmigoKit from TelCel TelCel offers a complete phone kit called the “Amigo Kit” which includes a phone and usually free minutes – or a credit of minutes. The complete package runs from $25-$30 USD, depending on the exchange rate. You usually get that amount back in free minutes. The phone is a basic (old school) phone and is a pre-paid phone which means you purchase a phone card, enter the code, and the minutes are added to your phone. You can use this phone to dial local cellular and land line numbers and a portion of your minutes can be used to call the
U.S. You can also text as well. Your minutes do expire so I recommend you purchase small denomination cards so that you do not lose large amounts of minutes if you do not get back to Rocky Point as often as you thought. They usually give you many months before the minutes expire so next time you come to Rocky Point just pick up a $50 MN card and this will reactivate any minutes you have left from previous trips (that have not expired).
3. Yearly Plan with TelCel TelCel also offers yearly “plans” just like your U.S. carrier. There are a variety of plans available so you can choose the one that is right for you. I had a Blackberry before my S4, so I had the “Blackberry Plan” which gave me unlimited data and I chose the lesser amount of telephone minutes because I don’t talk much on my cel – I text and email a lot. Wayne has a similar plan with his iPhone, but has an increased amount of minutes because he talks a lot! There are really so many different plans that you need to go in and consult with one of their representatives – they are very helpful in finding you the best deal and plan that is right for you. With a plan you can roam throughout Mexico and globally, but roaming charges are high so if you travel back and forth a lot you might want a U.S. plan that works in Rocky Point as well as a payas-you-go phone or a phone with a yearly plan. But those are pretty much your options – the rest is up to you.
If you have anything to add to this article – your experience with different carriers or updated plans, please leave a comment at rockypointtimes@yahoo.com so we can provide the latest information to visitors.
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CLASSIFIEDADS ANNOUNCEMENTS BILINGUAL SERVICES SUNDAY 10AM with Peñasco Christian Fellowship. Bilingual services also offered Wednesday at 7PM. Located ½ block E. of the Melchor Ocampo & Josefa Ortiz de Dominguez intersection. North from Las Conchas Pemex, ½ blk E. at 3rd stop sign past railroad tracks. For more info. call Stan or Becky at 383-4513. (#1-24) JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES KINGDOM HALL Thursday Ministry School & Service Meeting 7pm. Sunday Public Discourse 9:30am. Located on the (baseball) stadium road, on the left, just before the big blvd. Call 382-0049 or 383-3885. (#a1a) GRUPO UNIDAD CRISTIANOS DE PEÑASCO Pastor Ernesto Portugal. Headphones available for English translation. Sunday service 10:30AM, Thursday Service 7:30PM, Children’s school same hours. Church office open Monday through Friday 9:30AM to 2PM. Located on Simon Morua. Call for info. (01152-638) 383-2240. (#1-ch) ADOPT-A-CLASSROOM – Charity organization operated for 9 years now by Barb and Mark Olszewski, helping 9 schools and over 2,500 students. If anyone would like to help us with donations of spiral notebooks, pencils, crayons, erasers, rulers, etc...it will really be appreciated. You may use the offices of the Rocky Point Times Newspaper for a drop-off-point (off Calle 13map in paper), or get information at www.rockypointclassroom.com (#1-AAC) PUERTO PEÑASCO ‘ROCKIES’ WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL – Needs team boosters and sponsors!! Visitors are welcome to come watch us practice each Sunday 3-6PM at the Municipal Gymnasium on the main Blvd. at the north end of town. WE NEED DONATIONS to purchase sport wheelchairs for basketball. We ALSO NEED basketballs and uniforms!! Call Mark (602) 324-9529 or in Rocky Point (011-52-638) 383-4963. Email markbarb@prodigy.net.mx (#1WC) BARB’S DOG RESCUE – located 8 miles north of Rocky Point on the highway to Sonoyta, signs on both sides of highway. Also donation drop off point at Twin Dolphins Real Estate on Blvd Fremont, next to Cruz Roja (Red Cross). BarbsDogRescue@ aol.com. Mexico (011-521-638) 114-1659 or (044-638) 384-0113. From the US dial (602) 324-7241. (#1-dg)
AMERICAN LEGION MX-15 OF ROCKY POINT – is located in the Mirador Beach area, just down from Manny’s Beach Club, up the hill behind Pink Cadillac, downstairs at Los Juanes Restaurant. We serve Breakfast from 8am-11am and Lunch 11am - 2pm and Dinner Specials. post15mx@mail.com (#1-AL) BEAUTY SALONS GLORIAS BEAUTY SALON SINCE 1969! We do it all and we carry a full line of beauty supplies. Gloria’s Beauty Shop is located on Constitucion, just before Super Ley Market. Phone locally at 383-5075 or from the U.S. (011-52-638) 383-5075 for an appointment, ask for Gloria. English Spoken. (#25-13) PBC – PEÑASCO BEAUTY CENTER – ONLY AMERICAN SALON IN Rocky Point. Full line AVON Beauty Supplies. Hair, Nails, Facials, Manicures and Pedicures cell (044-638) 1063611. On Constitucion, across from Super Ley. (#25-1) BILL PAYING SERVICE WHILE YOU’RE AWAY I’LL PAY YOUR electric, water, phone, bills, etc. Since 1993 I’ve been working with Immigration services. English/Spanish spoken. References available. Call Silvia Villa at Premium Services, locally at 383-5758, or from the U.S. dial (602) 4761187, or email me at sivife@ hotmail.com. (#30-2) BOATS FOR SALE 1999 210 SUNDECK – 21 FT, 5.0 liter (235 HP) Mercruiser, 449 hours, galvanized trailer, am/fm radio with CD, 4 build in speakers, ship to shore / CB radio, fish finder, GPS navigation system, dual battery setup, porta potty, open bow, foldable Bimni top for shade, snap on custom covers to protect interior. Exchange unit so set up for saltwater. See Miguel at Safe Marina or Call (044-638) 115-6273 or (520) 777-1651. (#34-2) COFFEE AND COFFEE HOUSES MAX’S CAFÉ: BREAKFAST, LUNCH, Dinner, Pizza, Full Espresso and Liquor Bar. Free Wireless Internet & Phone to the U.S. Located in front of Hotel Peñasco del Sol. Live Music Thur-Sun 8PM-11PM 383-1011. (#56-5) BEST COFFEE IN TOWN – XOCHITLS CAFE (Sally’s place) in Cholla Bay. Not to mention awesome food! Breakfast 6AM2PM! You can’t beat her chiles rellenos and spinach omelet. Call to order ahead 382-5283. (#5610)
GIUSEPPIS ESPRESSO RESTAURANT - PASTRY – inside or outside seating. Located on Blvd. Fremont, left side past Cruz Roja (Red Cross) Open at 8AM until 4PM on Mon, Tue & Thur. Friday & Saturday breakfast and lunch. Sunday 8AM - 2PM (Closed Wednesdays) (011-52638) 383-5181 www.giuseppis. info. Leashed, well behaved dogs always welcome. (#56-6)
PUERTA PRIVADA LONG TERM LEASE 2 OR 3 bdrm condos for long term lease only. Furnished or unfurnished available. Visit model on site 9am to 5pm daily for more info. (#100-42)
DENTAL SERVICES
Affordable, Luxury BEACH FRONT Home – in the premiere community of Playa Encanto, 5 Star, Sleeps 12; Photos/Availability/Rates vrbo. com/85525, c (602) 206-4357, Elena (#100-10)
WANT A DENTIST WHO USES THE latest in technology and equipment when getting your teeth cared for? Ernesto Grijalva, D.D.S. comes highly recommended by all of his patients – ask anyone of them! Stop by his office located on Blvd. Fremont, just south of the fire dept. or call Mario for an appointment (011-52-638) 3833434. (#64-3) FM3 SERVICES SERVICES FOR AMERICANS – PPermanent and Temporary Residence, Tax ID Numbers (Hacienda Registration), accounting services, bill paying and more. Office location: Sun Valley Business and Immigration Service, Blvd. Benito Juarez No. 191 Between Nicolas Bravo & Simon Morua. Call local at 3838891, from the U.S. dial (520) 829-4340 or email Bianeysvisa@ aol.com or Dynorasvisa@aol. com. English spoken. (#79-9) FM2/FM3/RFC/HACIENDA/ IMSS – If you don’t speak Spanish, or just want someone to help guide you through the process, call Silvia Villa at Premium Services at 383-5758, or from the U.S. dial (602) 4761187 or sivife@hotmail.com. Translations from English to Spanish or Spanish to English also available – any document you need translated. Call Silvia whenever you need help with anything from bill paying to ordering flowers! (#79-1) FOR SALE 20KW PROPANE GENERATOR – excellent condition, operated indoors, 3700 hours. $3,200 USD. bjndds.@gmail.com. (#862) FURNITURE DELIVERY MOVING FROM THE STATES to Rocky Point/San Carlos since 1987. Our price includes no surprise fees from pickups to setups. Email geoff@ bordermovers.com or phone (480) 232-3518. (#90-9) HOUSES & CONDOS FOR RENT LONG TERM & NIGHTLY RENTALS, Las Conchas, Mirador, In Town, Sandy Beach Homes and Condos. Starting at $150.00 USD per month. Twin Dolphins (011-52-638) 383-3919, (602) 324-7241 (#100-4)
CONDO FOR RENT – 2BD 2 1/2 BA. Garage. Spectacular ocean view, in Old Port. (044-638) 3808233. (#100-1)
HOUSES & CONDOS FOR SALE AJO HOUSE – 3bd, 2ba. Backyard faces County Park, mountain views. Has a/c full house backup generator. Bottom of “U” street, nice neighborhood in Ajo, AZ. (520) 387-5474. (#102-m) PRINCESA CONDO RESORT B-502 – 3Bedrooms, 2bath, $229,000, Mex Ban Trust holding title. Fully furnished. Excellent view of the courtyard and ocean. Call Paul at PABLO REALTY (602) 288-8687. Local 383-8657. Email pablorealty@hotmail.com (#102-13) Beach Front 2BR/2BA Luxury Condo for a Fraction – $30,000. Las Palomas, Phase II, Oceanfront, 1/5th Fractional Condo Ownership. AZ LLC. Contact rockypointfractional@ gmail.com. (#102-14) BRICK HOUSE IN AJO-3BDR 2 BA – On .8 acres with attached garage and laundry room. Separate workshop on back of property. Large rooms. No smokers or small children ever lived there. Call (602)499-3609. (#102-15) INSURANCE SERVICES INSURANCE AND BONDING AGENCY – REAL estate Mexican & American Insurance: Auto, boat, life, house, commercial. Yolanda Silva, Agent. Ave Nayarit #62. Call 3836280. (#107-1) JEWELERS JOYERIA MAX – MAX’S JEWELTY - Custom design, repairs, diamonds and gemstones. Special orders are our specialty. Open 11AM – 9PM Monday through Saturdays. Shop located on the north side of No Reeleccion (Calle 26), just east of RR tracks. Lamek_fu@ hotmail.com. Call Max (011-52638) 388-5512 and 383-2698. (#110-2)
MASSAGE U.S.A. CERTIFIED MASSAGE THERAPIST. Several bodywork modalities available. Out calls or in clinic. $55 per hour. Best massage in town. Rita Pizarro, from U.S. dial (602) 748-4134, clinic (011-52-638) 383-8030, local dial 383-8030 or (044-638) 386-5203 or email ritapizarro@ gmail.com. (#120-6) PHARMACIES FARMACIAS DE DESCUENTO– DISCOUNT PHARMACY – best prices in Rocky Point guaranteed with 6 locations in town. (638) 383-3131. (#127-1) PEST CONTROL CONTRA PLAGAS – COCKROACHES, Termites, mosquitoes, flies, bees, fire ants, fleas, scorpions, spiders, rats, ants, mice. We have our Federal License. English spoken. Call Antonio Mendivil, owner at 3838787. 24 hour emergency phone dial (044-638) 380-5136. (#1261) REAL ESTATE SERVICES TWIN DOLPHINS – Blvd. Fremont, next to Red Cross. Mexico (638) 383-3919 US (602) 324-7241. (#140-1) REALTY EXECUTIVES – Jonni Francis at Paseo Las Glorias, across from Peñasco del Sol. Mexico (638) 382-5355 US (602) 334-4134. (#140-2) HOME INSPECTIONS. Be an intelligent investor: Get a home inspection before you buy your next home or investment property in Mexico. Puerto Peñasco’s only full time Home Inspector. Call (602) 748-4134, local dial (044-638) 380-7212 or email tomthomas360@gmail.com. (#140-4) RV PARKS & SPACES PARK YOU RV RIGHT AT THE WATERS EDGE – in Rocky Point at Playa Bonita RV Park. Call toll free from USA (1-888) 2328142. From Mexico (1-800) 4266482 info@playabonitamail.com (#152-2) 6 RV SPACES for rent in town (1 1/2 blks East of Josefa on Callejon Juarez). Walled, private, and with all the services, Call (480)225-6546. (#152-22) SERVICES PET SITTING SERVICE – DON’T WORRY about your animals for a day, week or month! Vacation with peace of mind. I will look after your cats or dogs. Lots of experience with animals! Phone Nancy at (011-52-638) 383-1012. (#157-21)
SATELLITE TV, DSS, DBS, FTA, C/BAND – Home theater, internet, audio/video, sales, service, custom installations, residential and commercial. Mobile (044-638) 103-5317 Mex. VOIP (602) 635-2246 USA. (#157-2) ROCKY POINT HOME INSPECTIONS – Inspections by US inspector 25+years in Real Estate, Homes and Condos. Be a smart investor 602-538-0027 tomthomas360@gmail.com. (#157-1) AQUA GRANDE TOWING – Tows to U.S.A. No Problem. All operators fluent in English and Spanish. Dennis Bleeker (01152-638) 383-5770. From the U.S. (520) 232-2149. (#157-3) AMERICAN HOME SERVICES, YOUR HOME SERVICES CONCIERGE – Any and all home services/repairs and maintenance including HOME WATCH - maintenance and repair review for your property. WiFi thermostats, monitoring services, etc. www.americanhomeservices. mx (044-638) 107-6750 (520) 303-1016 (#157-9) SHUTTLE SERVICE HEAD OUT TO ROCKY POINT – door to door shuttle service from Phoenix to Rocky Point. Group and one-way rates available. Wanna Go? Let Us Know! Email headout@cox.net, phone in the U.S. (602) 971-0166 or U.S. Toll Free (866) 443-2368. www. headouttorockypoint.com. No waiting in border lines when you ride with us! (#158-3) WANTED BILINGUAL RECEPCIONIST – in chiropractor office. Dependale, has transportation, able to work evening/weekend events. Personable. Contact Dr. Shelly at (480) 263-3242. (#192-2) D E P E N D A B L E PROFESSIONAL CANADIAN MALE – seeks 1-2 BR rental for 1-3 months from November 2015. Please let me know your opportunity. agentbriefs@yahoo. com or 613-545-5172. (#192-4)
CLASSIFIED AD PRICES 25 WORDS FOR $15 WORDS AFTER 25 ARE 20¢ PER WORD
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Letters to Editor Send your letters to the editor to our mailing address P.O. Box 887 Lukeville, AZ 85341 or email us at rockypointtimes@yahoo.com
Love to eat there when we go to Rocky Point! Great family! Karen Billadeau Yes ‘VIVA MEXICO’ in Old Port has it all... al pastor/ carne asada/ pollo/ camarones... Excellent!! Besides The Reef and Playa Bonita, what are some other good RV parks ocean front in Rocky Point? Stephanie Stork Concha del Mar is next to Playa Bonita, beautiful, showers, baños, but no hook-ups. Then over on Mirador Beach is Playa de Oro, close to Pink Cadillac, Manny’s and Capone’s. It’s the presentation that makes the food... Maria Bascelli, Pedro Villalobos and the rest of the staff at Giuseppi’s Espresso present only the best...Congrats Maria, Pedro and the staff at Giuseppi’s well deserved... Mark Olszewski Yes, that’s why Giuseppi’s WON ‘Best Breakfast in Rocky Point’. Thanks, great Mag. E.L. Magruder Looks awesome! What major landmark is Canvas on Blvd Fremont? what is the telephone #? Mani and pedi and facials and massages too? Lori Wallen Riedel Ashley and her mom, Karen, are FABULOUS!! CANVAS is downstairs in Plaza Melanie, on your right as you head out Fremont toward Las Conchas. See their ad on Page 47 of our Sept digital edition at Rocky Point Times Simply click on the orange ISSUU logo Tel 383-1161. Our favorite tacos in Rocky Point! Carne Asada in flour with a cup of frijoles and a diet Coke. Every day they’re open we’re there. Love the salsa verde and they showed me how to make it so I do it at home now... The family is great and make you feel welcome...I always said if I had to have my last meal, I’d want the tacos from Asadero Viva Mexico! Barbra Roberts Lot’s of our readers/subscribers/Facebook friends go to Viva Mexico in Old Port. Us included!!
Great Hotels! Just wish more of them had a restaurant that is open all year long like the Puesta Del Sol restaurant at Playa Bonita. Michael Gyory Restaurants at Playa Bonita, Las Palomas, Sonoran Spa, and Colins Cantina at the Princesa. Hi Sandra the monthly hi-lite here at Clearlake is my Rocky Point Times! Be back soon to look for condo’s on the beach. Regards, Wayne H. Hill Clearlake Oaks, CA U will be so HAPPY!! At Rocky Point!!! Hasha Ahyde We are so happy that you had a wonderful visit!! Great picture!! Is that restaurant still only taking cash?? Michael Gyory La Casa del Capitan, on top of the hill overlooking Old Port, accepts MasterCard and Visa. Did Pollo Papago move or fold? Lisa Ingraham Moved to Constitucion Hi Sandy, enclosed is a check, hope it’s enough to start the RPT to be sent to my home. I miss RP and sorry we missed lunch. We are also due for a new makeover. What fun was that! Will see you next Oct. Will be there for my six months of the fun part of my life. Thanks, Maureen Ramsay Kanab UT Is the Times available anyplace in the Phoenix area? Alison Paul Geislinger Yes, at times, but we do not have a regulated delivery there. You may send your mailing address to us for a free copy, or subscribe by Emailing us at rockypointtimes@yahoo. com Thank you Sandra O’Hare You are The Best and one of these days I’m going to actually meet you in person!!!! ;) Cindy Leonhardt Hopefully, we can find you a ‘Pet friendly’ condo rental on Sandy Beach, too!!
Everyone that has more than casual interest in RP should do one of these runs. Terry Winn One does get to see the ‘territory’ on our El Golfo 4x4 ‘Runs’! I have known the Rocky Point Times since 1994. I believe that is about 20 years. And I can’t deny there have been good times and bad times as in all businesses but the Rocky Point Times has prevailed and has the most information about Puerto Peñasco there is. I highly recommend this periodical for anyone that wants to know what’s going on in Rocky Point. Jim Roberto Wow! What a nice letter to read first thing in the morning. You just made my day!! We are here and want to come for breakfast...can we bring the dogs to Kaffeehaus? Connie Hutzel Yes, small dogs are welcome on their outside patio. Good morning! We travel to Rocky Point several times a year and I am seeking Mexico auto insurance that is reliable and fairly priced. and that I can buy a year long policy. Can you recommend an agent? Many thanks! Hope you are sating dry today… yesterday’s pics were unbelievable. Regina Rogers Edwards Read our digital issues for Mexico insurance. Go to Rocky Point Times and click on the orange ISSUU logo top / left. We will need an English speaking veterinarian in Rocky Point. Thank you! We are in Oregon right now returning to Peñasco at the end of the month. Lori Hola Lori, Sandy O’Hare here with Rocky Point Times Newspaper...a little late, but here’s the names and numbers of a couple vets here in Peñasco who speak English Chochoy (011-52-638) 383-2338 AND Servicios Medicos Vet (011-52-638) 383-3344 We’ve been going for over 30 years without incident. But there are some that are afraid. I understand. Marcy Cain I’ve lived here in Rocky Point since 1990, and I am safe and I love it, or I wouldn’t be here.
The restaurant was in the fish market about the 4th or 5th one on the right on the water with the green railing. Alan DeKalb We want to thank the RP Times paper for helping us with a vet emergency. We have a 6th floor condo on Sandy Beach and always have the RP Times on the coffee table. When our dog jumped from the 5th floor stairwell landing, we turned to the RP Times paper to find a vet. On page 4 under the advertiser index, we quickly found a vet clinic with English-speaking staff; Servicios Medicos Veterinarios where Dr. Felix provided compassionate care and ended our dog’s suffering. Thank you RPT and Dr. Felix for being there in our time of need. The Morgan’s Gold Canyon, AZ Oh my, we are so sorry for what happened, but how thoughtful of you to write and thank us. I am happy that we were there to help you at such a horrific time. On the dang airplane flying home to Tennessee from Rocky Point when this was posted. Ugh. Miss every time!! Calvin Hullett Sorry, Calvin. Maybe you will win the next FREE SUBSCRIPTION GIVE-AWAY! Love your paper. Keep up the good work. Frank Feeney THANK YOU! THANK YOU! We stayed at the Sonoran Spa between Sept 21-27. And while at the beach late one night we had seen baby turtles scurrying off to the ocean. What an amazing site!!!! Steve Clark How lucky you were to see that! Just watched an episode of House Hunters International on San Carlos. Then I was going through my feed and saw this. It’s about time they show places I’m actually familiar with! They were showing homes on the beach Not condos for the buyers to choose from. Hopefully they will do the same for you all in Rocky Point. Will be cool to watch. Brittany Robertson Last show that was on Rocky Point was pretty good, we are all hoping this November show will be GREAT!!
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CROSSWORD JUNE
DOWN 1. Bowlike curves 2. Mob scene 3. Nut-producing tree 4. 1/60 of a min. 5. Outdo 6. Golden Rule word 7. Covets 8. Blacker 9. What a groom-to-be might have (2 wds.) 10. Skipper’s direction 11. Negative votes 16. “Doggone it!” 22. Gone upward 24. Greek Muse of poetry
25. Gear tooth 26. Santa __, California 27. Unfriendly sort (2 wds.) 28. Travel in space 29. “Tea for __ “ 30. Kennedy, for one (abbr.) 33. News story 36. Rental agreements 38. “My goodness!,” once 40. Waist bands 41. Observer 42. Stew pot 44. Zoo sound 46. Easily fooled person 47. College course (abbr.) 48. Goes down a mountain 51. Poor grade
E G G S A L A D
55. Football cheers 56. Scotch Gaelic 57. Naval officer (abbr.)
B I K E
43
49
ACROSS 1. Biblical ship 4. Tuxedo botton 8. “__ do anything better than you” (2 wds.) 12. River (Sp.) 13. Sea eagle 14. __ contendere 15. Deli offering (2 wds.) 17. Swiss artist Paul 18. Celestial body 19. “Me,” in Paris 20. The __ of March 21. French painter Jean 23. Coral ridge 25. Arizona plants 28. Weasel’s cousins 31. Lennon’s widow Yoko __ 32. Southwestern condiment 34. Lamb’s guardian 35. Place to exhibit paintings 37. Part of a Wyoming range 39. Fender damage 40. Swamp’s kin 41. Divan 43. Wrath 45. Summer beverages 49. Whitney et al. 50. Sparkling wine (2 wds.) 52. Different 53. Tardy 54. Taro dish
47
34
36
42
30
24
28 32
35
29
20
22
27
31
11
Full Moon Dates
Month/Year
2015
January
4
February
3
March
5
April
4
May
3
June
2
July
2 & 31
August
29
September
28
October
27
November
25
December
25
L A M E
26
10
17
18 21
9
14
16
15
41
8
7
13
12
25
5
E E S K E E
3
F R E E
2
A D M S
1
Moon phase
Date
Time
Full moon
July 1, 2015
07:22:22 PM
Last quarter
July 8, 2015
01:26:01 PM
New moon
July 15, 2015
06:26:11 PM
First quarter
July 23, 2015
09:05:15 PM
Full moon
July 31, 2015
03:45:46 AM
Last quarter
August 6, 2015
07:05:31 PM
New moon
August 14, 2015
07:54:47 AM
First quarter
August 22, 2015
12:32:12 PM
Full moon
August 29, 2015
11:37:44 AM
Last quarter
September 5, 2015 02:56:58 AM
New moon
September 12, 2015 11:42:30 PM
First quarter September 21, 2015 02:00:08 AM Full moon
September 27, 2015 07:52:06 PM
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The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
Our Contributing writers...
Sandy Spain
Marcia Diane
Born in Colon, Panama and lived in Venezuela before moving to the U.S. at the age of 11, returning to Venezuela for the summers. Educated in California, High Scool in Burbank and College in Santa Barbara. Retired from City of Scottsdale after 23 years of service and 10 years service before that in Cypress, California. In both cities was involved in financial services and the environment. I am a widow with two married sons and two grandchildren. I purchased my home in Playa Encanto in 1986 and moved to Mexico full time after retiring in 2002.
I’ve had the honor of writing for one of the best publications in the business and with some of the finest colleagues for over a year now, yea RPT! When I was little I promoted circuses and trained animals. Now that was something to write about. When I grew up I just couldn’t stop, writing that is. Though I’ve stolen and trained some horses since then. Can’t think of anywhere else I’d rather live than this astounding Sonoran Desert Sea…lucky, lucky me. Anybody who’s inclined to share their private thoughts, don’t hesitate to join our on-line writing group at m.diane. writeon@gmail.com. We put out our submissions every second Friday of the month. See you all there.
Gretchen Ellinger
Eddie Wharez
Considers herself blessed with the privilege of living and working Cholla Bay, which she thinks is one of the most inviting areas of Puerto Peñasco. After years of visiting Puerto Peñasco, Gretchen purchased a fishing shack by the water in Cholla Bay. The idea was to fix it up for weekends and vacations, and perhaps operate a bed and breakfast after retirement. After rebuilding, and a big curve in life’s road, Gretchen retired and started a new life in Cholla Bay. Over 7 years’ experience in real estate in Puerto Peñasco has earned Gretchen the respect of the real estate community, where it is known that she can be depended upon and trusted. Her numerous clients have come to depend on her for exemplary customer service, and expert advice in the fields of Cholla Bay real estate and retirement south of the border. Gretchen is Vice President of Education for AMPI (the Mexican association of real estate agents), and coordinates the annual clean-up of Cholla’s estuary by U of A students. That bed and breakfast dream? After over 7 years in operation, Casa Monica Cholla Bay B&B has many devoted visitors who would not stay anywhere else!
Rosarie Salerno
Has been a contributing writer, for the Rocky Point Times, since 2006. Rosarie has lived in Rocky Point for over 10 years. She has been a full time real estate professional in Rocky Point since she arrived and has been a licensed real estate agent in Arizona since 1986. She moved to Tucson, Arizona in 1972. Rosarie studied Accounting in N.Y.C., Fashion Designing as well as Video and Film Production in Tucson. Not only did she sell real estate in Tucson, but had a small income tax preparation service for almost 20 years. Rosarie is highly analytical in her work. She has an inquisitive mind.
Mike Bibb
Contributing writer, Mike Bibb from Safford, Arizona, is a recovering paranoid-schizophrenic with several bipolar disorders. As long as he remains under constant medication, the public is generally not at risk. However, he has been known to lapse into bouts of uncontrollable thirst which can only be sedated with multiple servings of iced Indios, Dox Equis or some similar tonic. There is no picture of him available at this time due to national security reasons should his face be seen in public.
Vince Deadmond
Vince Deadmond, “The Fly Fishing Hardware Guy”, is coowner of Best Hardware in Apache Junction, AZ. He is an enthusiastic, caffeinated, fly fisher in search of a really good cookie. He has fly fishing stories published on the web, in local newspapers and magazines. His stories tangle family, friends, and fly lines.
Born in Boston, Nancy settled in Phoenix, Arizona, where she has three daughters and seven grandchildren. Nancy received her Masters degree from Northern Arizona University. Her computer career included Xerox and Control Data. She represented wineries in Europe working out of Libourne, France connecting wineries in Europe to the suppliers in the USA. Ten years ago, when she retired to Puerto Peñasco, she was appalled by the brutal way animals were treated and abused. Nancy started an animal rescue “Animal Adoption Center of Rocky Point”. Today she works closely with the city of Puerto Peñasco, conducting spay/neuter clinics and adoptions events.
Cap’n Greg
Designer - Owner of Diseños Casa y Jardín, born in Pachuca, Hidalgo, raised in Guadalajara, moved to Puerto Peñasco from Puerto Vallarta in 2003. He enjoys developing lasting personal relationships with his customers by beautifying their homes and making their dreams come true, loves music and good wine, he himself has taken every photo for his ads, member of the Interior Design Society and also of the Puerto Peñasco Photography Club,
Escaped Iowa’s snow for Arizona’s sun in 1989, and immediately jumped the border to sample the culture and cerveza of Mexico. A US Navy veteran, his love for the ocean drew him to Rocky Point, which he has enjoyed immensely. Although he offers salty advice to Sea of Cortez visitors, the Cap’n also frequents the Northwest Ontario Bush, and has been writing a “North With Doc” humor column for In-Fisherman magazine for more than 20 years. Cap’n Greg, his wife Sandy, and their silky/pom pup Jezebel live in Green Valley.
favorite quote: “Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.” — Albert Schweitzer
Rob Baylor
Rob was born and lived for 60 years in Missoula, Mt. He retired in 2004 after 35 years as a self employed appliance service technician. Rob served two tours in Viet Nam in the 60’s and is very involved in the American Legion. He moved to Denver Co in 2004 where he married his wonderful wife, and editor, Nancy. They moved to Rocky Point in 2011, where Rob loves to fish, eat tacos and drink beer on the beach.
Lannette Phipps
My Bio…hmmm. Should I start at the age of 10 when I was kidnapped from Southern California and brought to Lake Havasu City to work in a factory mill (aka our home) stuffing independent phone books into plastic bags and then having to deliver said phonebooks doorto-door in temp’s well over 120-degrees from the back of a metal truck bed? Obviously there were no child labor laws back then and my kidnappers – aka Tom and Sandra O’Hare taught me from the bottom up how to publish independent yellow pages in three states while going up against the “big guys” and knocking them down a peg or two. I guess we could fast forward to 1995 when I was working for an all in-house publishing and photography company in Buena Park, CA when my boss (and best friend) and I wanted to start our own freelance graphic design business. (This was before everyone who owned a PaintShop program thought they were designers – YES, I am talking about you!). We didn’t have the necessary funds to launch properly so I called the folks in Mexico and asked them for a loan. “On one condition,” they said “You have to come to Rocky Point for 6-months and work for The Rocky Point Times Newspaper. If you don’t like it then you can go back to California and we will loan you the money”. Here it is, 17 years later and 2 newspapers under my belt (more before 1995) and I’m still here. I never left. When you are a family business you pretty much have to do everything so that’s what we all did. I could fill years of newspapers talking about the city and printers and escapades and stuff you really shouldn’t know about, but this is just a short bio. I have always wanted to be a writer of some sort so now I guess I am though my years have made me think I am a much better editor. I guess we can all be the judge of that when my first book is published…or not.
Anita Kaltenbaugh
Originally from Western Pennsylvania, lived and worked in Rocky Point for two years. Waking up and walking the beach everyday was a dream come true. Anita and her husband love to travel and explore new and different places all over the world, but her heart still remains in Puerto Peñasco. Anita Kaltenbaugh is the Mexico travel examiner at examiner.com and author of the book “Travel SecretsInsider guide to planning, affording and taking more vacations” available on Kindle, NOOK and Amazon.com.
Nancy Phelan
Mark Paliscak Marco Paliscak grew up on the East Coast and loved spending his summers at the Jersey Shore, enjoying the beach to the fullest. After graduating college, he moved to southern California and went on to get his Masters in Business Administration at the University of California, Irvine. Marco lived in Huntington Beach and Balboa Island for 13 years. He then relocated to Napa and lived in the wine country for a year. Missing the beach, he decided to move back to the beach to Santa Cruz, California. A great job offer took him south to Scottsdale, Arizona, where he lives today. Marco purchased his condo on Sandy Beach 9 years ago, and lives part-time at Bella Sirena and at home in Scottsdale with his family. “My favorite thing about writing for the Rocky Point Times is to explore everything our cool city has to offer...from deep sea fishing to throwing back a margarita at a local watering hole to just chilling at our beach…I love the new experiences and sharing the stories about the interesting people and places I see. I am also amazed with each passing year the outpouring of support that people from all over give to our family charity to aid the poor living along the railroad tracks here in Rocky Point. The love and generosity is truly amazing!” If you have an interesting story about Rocky Point whether it is your place of employment, an upcoming event, a past event, an old or funny story, please email Marco at mpaliscak@amerifirst.us. You may be featured in the next…MARCO Y AMIGOS!
Steve Franklin
in Old Town near Mercedes.
Steve Franklin is a Cholla Bay resident and has been photographing wildlife for 20 years. He is also an Arson Detective for the Phoenix Fire Department. He enjoys taking photos of all sea life above and below the water. He visits the Yellowstone and Grand Teton areas of Wyoming as well as the Sonoran desert areas of Arizona & Mexico each year. His photography is displayed at Xochitl’s Restaurant in Cholla Bay, and at Gaby & Luis Galeria
rockypointtimes@yahoo.com • find us on facebook • follow us on twitter • www.rptimes.com
Rocky Point’s Rodeo Drive
By Barbara Iverson
Over 50 vendors with a fantastic array of items, all made in Mexico, line the street we once referred to as Shacks 5th Ave. Wonderful cool cotton clothing, leather sandals custom made for you, a hammock for your patio, “designer” sun glasses, home accessories to die for, hand carved wooden pieces, ceramics in wonderful Mexican design! What more could a shopper with a discerning eye ask for? How about friendly and helpful vendors that don’t chase you down the street and, of course, the best prices in town? That’s Rodeo Drive. And it keeps getting better.
On the far west end of our shopping street you’ll see Peñasco’s answer to Jurassic Park. You can’t miss it. There is a wonderful and very tall giraffe out front. It’s so tall, in fact, it won’t fit inside the shop! The Ortiz Madris Family can usually be found inside fashioning metal into everything from flowers to dinosaurs, cactus to giraffes. Whatever you have in mind if you don’t see it just ask. My
favorites are the burros. They just ooze with personality. The family has been working together for the past 30 years when they relocated in Peñasco from Michoacan and are very happy they did so. Peñasco’s Rodeo Drive is becoming “THE place to be”. As we’ve seen many times before, everyone in the family does their part. Maria and Armando and two of the children do the welding, a task that takes great care and skill. Dad, Anthony, does the drawing and cutting of the designs. Mom, Margarita, and the rest of the family do the painting. The end result will knock your socks off! Whenever they can take time from welding these clever creations they are going to make a sign for their shop. It will read “Fuentes y Mesas Margarit,” or maybe just “Jurassic Park”.
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The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255