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The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
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rockypointtimes@yahoo.com • find us on facebook • follow us on twitter • www.rptimes.com
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, Chef Mickey, 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 How fortunate are we here in Rocky Point? Do you find you are pinching yourself several times a day thinking how did I get this lucky? The weather has been super fantastic and so many new things are blooming – guess that’s why they call it spring. And spring brings us to spring break, which I swear is getting earlier and earlier every year – this year commencing on the 5th of March. I am hoping for the fantastic weather to continue and for Rocky Point businesses to have a most prosperous spring break and Semana Santa, which runs from March 29th through April 5th. I think Semana Santa has taken over as the popular, more interesting of spring breaks. The streets are packed day and night, the drivers are just nutso, and you’ve never seen so many people on Competition Hill or the Malecon in Old Port. If you have never ventured to Competition Hill during Semana Santa make this year the year to get a look-see. You can catch action from previous years on YouTube. The natives do know how to party and have a good time. And the whole family is usually along for the vacation which is so great. I love to see grandma on the beach under the umbrella watching the babies surrounded by tons of family, friends and coolers! I’m looking forward to taking Tom’s yellow buggy out this year…maybe even let it make a run up Competition Hill. Unfortunately we have some very untimely street construction (the road going into Old Port is being torn up and redone) that will be going on during spring break and Semana Santa so it may be more fun to cop a squat there on the side of the road and watch the traffic. I don’t know why the city decided to start it in February, right before one of our busiest months, but it’s done now so just take extra care and have a lot of patience
when heading down to Old Port. I used to think it was just extremely poor planning or lack thereof until someone told me it is usually because of the elections – those in office want to get a much done before their term us up. I chose to believe that rather than we have the absolute worst city planners in the entire world. (I will probably receive a lot of grief for that!) But, hey, the new roads do look great! And you can now get all the way from Calle 13 to the Old Port on Luis Encinas with only 1 big drop. They are currently working on the north end of Benito Juarez/Hwy 8 so those coming into town will have to divert onto Josefa Ortiz or Samuel Ocaña and go around the section from that intersection to the Sam’s Club, that is currently being worked on. This month we had fantastic news that Ramon Ramos was back with a new restaurant on “Rodeo Drive” called Mariachis and Tequila. We attended the pre-opening on February 13th and are really looking forward to going back. I think he and his business partner, David, who owns Kokopelli across the street will do fantastic. AND, our beloved Gaston Rochin has reopened El Delfin Amigable – The Friendly Dolphin. I considered the Delfin a landmark like La Cita Café and La Curva and the Capitan and it was sad when it closed down. We all look forward to enjoying Gaston and The Friendly Dolphin once again and wish him the best of luck. And speaking of landmarks, Chef Luca of Pane e Vino has “taken over” the Lighthouse and has completely redone the menu and opened (on February 25th) under the name Fish Seafood Restaurant – Bar. I do admit the name sounds a little funny to me, but I know the food will be outstanding and you certainly can’t beat the view. Go and check it out – Sandy will be posting soon on Facebook – she’s currently taking a little vacay. Oh, and we have a new place called Frenchy’s that will
be open by the time you read this. It is located (the back way to Sandy Beach – that goes by Playa Bonita) on Ave. Plutarco Elias Calles. Many of you may have noticed that while the entire U.S. is basking in very low gas prices, we in Peñasco are all riding bicycles and scooters. Yes, gas is still expensive down here and it stinks. I have seen people get carloads of containers of gas and bring them down – no, not safe at all. I hate to tell people not to patronize local businesses, but I don’t want you to have a coronary when you go to the gas pump here. I filled up today ($60 USD) and didn’t think it was all that much, but I haven’t enjoyed the low U.S. gas prices as much as a lot of you have. Gas is much cheaper in Sonoyta so you can always fill up there. Border towns get cheaper gas prices. There has been a movement to get Peñasco recognized (gas wise) as a “border town” and I hear that there may be some action at main offices in the bigger cities. I don’t want to say which ones for fear I give them a heads up. Jk (look it up). But it is a real problem here and everyone is fed up paying high gas prices. On a positive note – that same grapevine tells me that us locals (anyone that pays an electric bill) will hopefully see cheaper electric rates soon. We are currently at a 1E and are going to a 1F and all I know is that it means I may be able to run the central air all summer long. Yeehaw! Yes, electric is expensive here as well – thank goodness we have cheap food and drink! On a final note I would like to wish our Forever Editor, Tom O’Hare a Happy Birthday. Another birthday we must celebrate without you, but you are forever in our hearts. Have a great spring break everyone and get out there and enjoy some activity – relive a day or two of your youth – go a little nuts and have a fun and safe time in Puerto Peñasco.
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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.
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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 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 Aztec Sol Beauty & Spa.............................383-3656 or................................................044-638-113-0133
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 Bill Paying Service by Patricia Perez..................383-5737 Biosfera Dry Cleaners.....................................383-1667 Bonita RV Park...............................................383-1400 Bórquez, Ricardo, Atty............388-6110/520-407-6756 Brooks, Dee...................................................383-3919 Brothers Pizza................................................383-3712 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 Dr. Vazquez, M.D........................................383-3014 Dolce Vita Restaurant....................................383-7222 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 Grecos Gyros..............................044-638-112-9692 El Rapidin...................................................388-6775
F
Family of God................................................383-3480 Farmacias De Descuento..............383-3131/388-8280 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 JJ’s Cantina...................................................383-2785 Jerry’s Banquettes............................638-115-0983 John Hibber 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 Cocina de Ramon........388-5362/044-638-112-0350
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 Lily’s Restaurant.........................................383-1485 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 Bonito Bill Paying Service...............383-5737 Mexico Insurance Center..................1-800-404-1088 Muebles Coloniales....................................383-6670 Muebles Imperiales......................................383-6480 or.......................................................714-395-4117
N-O
Napa Auto (Ajo).................................24 HOUR TOW ....................................(520) 387-4TOW (387-4869) Oasis Café............................................520-387-4455 Optica Turati................................................383-4645 Organic Life.................................................382-5039
P
Pablo Realty........................383-8657/602-288-8687 Pane e Vino Restaurant................044-638-105-7455 Pealachi..............................................638-102-1110 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 Porto Fino Rest.............................................383-1485 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 Regatta’s Sports Bar..............................638-107-2192 Regina Seafood Restaurant........044-638-119-1014 or..................................................044-638-118-3077 Remote Accountant LLC In Rocky Point VOIP...........................630-839-9129
Repeat Performance.........................520-387-4948 Rey del Mar................................................383-5490 Rocky Point BBQ................383-4676/602-507-7766 or..................................................044-638-107-8876 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 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 Su Casa...........................................638-690-1345 Sun Valley Services.....................................383-8891 Sun n’ Fun....................................................383-5450 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 Tom Thomas Home Inspection....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 Vanilla Copali.........................................383-4174 Vazquez, Luis, MD......................................383-3014 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
Eddie Awards 2015
By Eddie Wharez® Owner and interior designer of Diseños Casa y Jardín eddiewharez.com
I must start by telling you all about the Eddie Awards. During this third edition of the contest we broke every record by having sixty-two personalities of the Arts & Crafts of Puerto Peñasco being nominated to be awarded.
Diseños Casa y Jardín as an interior design turned twelve years and we had a great party at the Eddies. As you read before, the contest rewards the work done during the prior year (2014) and the extent of it, some of artists had a huge global impact not only here in our community. The winners were: Youth Promise: Rabel Durán - in 2014 he had a singing contest of his own and he also produced his own concert. Group: Destiny Dance Academy - in 2014 they went back to dance in Disneyland for the second time, being the only Mexican dance group accomplishing that! Consolidated Artist: The Sand Man exhibited in 2014 his work in Paris, in the Baja and in the USA, his name, Manuel Martínez. Cultural Promoter: Luis Lugo organized and produced several concerts in Rocky Point bringing different singers from other parts of Mexico. The Eddie for the Artisan of the year was given to Alma Yanes for her tremendous and artistic work in teaching and repurposing reciclying materials like tires, see and purchase some of her art at the Marmaid Market at the shrimp plaza. Lifetime Achievement Award:
Amaranto Celaya Celaya – Celaya, originally from Altar, Sonora where he was born November 4th, 1944, has served in various capacities in Puerto Peñasco including as administrator with the CFE (Federal Electricity Commission), Mason, baseball player – coach and aficionado, journalist, poet, writer, and visionary. Fan Favorite (voted on through Facebook): Angélica Sotomayor, Hawaiian dance instructor who has contributed greatly to youth activities and involvement in Puerto Peñasco. Visiting Artist in 2014: Canadian filmmaker Lisa Ovies provided an intense week in Puerto Peñasco of sharing her craft through workshops for adults, as well as visits to area schools, press conferences, and the presentation of both a short and documentary that she has produced. With the exception of the fan favorite one all these Eddies were given by a panel of judges, namely, Gabriela Solís, Azucena Mazón, Shandra Keesecker and Victor Alemán.
There were two honorary Eddies this year for which the judges have no word, it is only up Eddie Wharez to say who earns them. The backbone of the contest has always been the promotion of our Port, whoever lives and loves Rocky Point wants the world to know how beautiful and peaceful our town is, we want people to know our place is fun and safe to come to. I believe everything we do or say has a positive or negative impact on the minds of others, the artists with their work convey a positive message and there are others that do the same thing with their everyday work. I was very happy to announce during the Eddies gala that one of the recipients for the honorary Eddie was The Rocky Point Times, Mrs. Sandra O’Hare was amongst the public and was happy to receive it for their twenty plus years of promoting our dear Puerto Peñasco. The second honorary Eddie was given to Mr. Socorro González, co-founder and coordinator of Cine Club Primera Toma, a film club that plays a major role in what art has to do in town, without Mr. González and his wife Nina Mier a lot of workshops, courses, conferences would not be happening for the benefit of us all. Honorable Mentions by the judges:
Artesanos en Movimiento (Wendy Fregozo, Alma Yanez, and Ricardo Monjaraz) for their drive in 2014 to envision a group for artisans to support each other while making it possible to participate in different events locally and outside of Puerto Peñasco. Each of these three artists were nominated separately in the Artisans category. Cultural Promotors – Russ & Naomi Black were recognized for their tireless efforts of promoting local artisans in Puerto Peñasco through creation of the Mermaids Arts Market, as well as the numerous ways they have both provided support for the arts in town. Naomi’s own “upcycled” garments and seaside art were also prominent throughout 2014, including presentation of her flamenco dresses at the Annual Tucson Flamenco Festival. Both Russ and Naomi had been nominated separately for an Eddie as Artisan (Naomi) and Cultural Promotor (Russ.)
Congratulations to all and see you at the Eddies in 2016! Lifetime Achievement Recognition Rosalina Mendoza Pérez – painter Amaranto Celaya Celaya – writer, journalist, chronicler (Eddie 2015) Jesus Mata Bustamante – painter Valdemar Arrieta Romero (RIP – In 2013 the Eddie Awards were dedicated to
this beloved musician) Now let’s go back to business! As you can see in our ad this month we have consolidated everything we do under one roof as E&E Enterprises, housing: Diseños Casa y Jardín by Eddie Wharez® ~ our interior design center & furniture store. E&E Exceptional Events® ~ I have been a certified Wedding planner for almost three years, so it only made sense to start advertising this business more fully specially since I have already been helping friends and customers with their events. E&E Exceptional Events® also offers the concierge/catering service of private dinners, a romantic idea that can be held at the beach or inside a venue of the customer’s choice, this subsidiary business is called Dinners by the Sea® and supplies with everything you need for a great celebration, rental furniture, accesories, table cloths and the like, of course E&E Photography® also plays a major role in making your event a true success! Regal-Arte® ~ gifts and gift wrapping for any occasion (it even carries a line of baby dolls, come and check it out!) At E&E Botanicals® our motto is ‘Making beautiful flowers a part of your life!’ We have flower arrangements upon request for special events like weddings and so forth. Our goal is to have fresh flowers every day, we’ll keep you posted! For you who know the quality and taste of the goods we are so used to deliver have the certainty that we are going to make your event or dinner by sea something truly special, we realize the importance of time and money invested on planning a celebration. At E&E, we know an event lasts a day yet memories last forever! Reach us at our design center on Rodeo Drive or at 602 324 93 28 from the USA or locally at 3838633.
Please visit our gallery on Rodeo Drive (see ad) feel free to ask any questions and who knows we may have what you are after, regardless you are going to be pleasantly surprised! Reach me at: eddiewharez@yahoo.com or visit us online at www.eddiewharez.com.
rockypointtimes@yahoo.com • find us on facebook • follow us on twitter • www.rptimes.com
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The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
2 FISH Ministry Today I want to introduce you to one of the many families that have been blessed here at Two Fish Ministries. This family consists of 5 family members: • Jesus Armando Borquez (father) • Anai Garcia (mother) • Manuel, 5 years old • Aimar, 4 years old • Jesus, 2 years old This family has been suffering for quite a while now due to lack of proper nutrition since Jesus the father suffers from diabetes and spends most of the time sick from not having the resources to buy the medicine that he needs. He has found support at this Ministry, thanks to you who read these stories and are willing and able to support this Ministry in one way or another. The children are dressed and supplied with footwear from what the Ministry is able to give to them. Therefore, I want to encourage you to continue supporting this Ministry, be it with your cash or other types of donations. May God bless each and every
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 SkyMed Air Ambulance.................................001-866-805-9624 AIRPORTS International.................................................under construction Municipal......................................................................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 ELECTRIC
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
food, or canned goods which are about to expire.
GAS (Propane) Hidrogas........................................................................383-5650 Z’Gas..............................................................................383-8284 ZaGas.............................................................................383-8100
“…but Jesus answered; you give them something to
eat”
HOSPITALS (See Clinics also) Community...................................................................383-4566 IMSS (Social Security)...................................................383-2870 Municipal......................................................................383-2110 IMMIGRATION............................................................383-2526 MARINE RESCUE (VHF Channel 28)
Mark 6:37
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)
one of you who make this Ministry possible, we thank you in advance. We are in need of blankets and cold weather clothing; your help will be greatly appreciated. You may bring your donations to our main site 2 blocks west of the Numeros store on Kino Blvd. check donations may be sent to Mission Heartbeat, c/o Two Fish Ministry, P.O. Box 1032, Lukeville, Az. 85341.
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 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------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
Spin Me a Tail
by Walter Malchow
By Steve Franklin
There are two main dolphin species around Rocky Point; Spinner Dolphins and Bottlenose Dolphins. The best way to tell them apart is color and size. The Bottlenose Dolphins are primarily one color throughout which is a navy grey. They are also larger than the Spinner, 10 feet verse 7 feet in length. Spinners guiding the way
A Spinner Dolphin spying on us Spinners have three colors on their body. The top third along the dorsal fin is a dark grey to black. The middle third is a medium grey and the bottom third underbelly is a whitish lighter color. They grow to seven feet long and 20 years of age. They are sexually mature at 7 years old. The females will have a calf every three years after sexual maturity kicks in and will nurse their calf for 2 years. The gestation period is 10 months.
The Spinners got their name because of their uncanny ability to spin around while they are leaping out of the water. In order for them to pull off this feat they need to be swimming at high speeds underwater and start their spin while under the water. They are the most acrobatic sea mammal in the ocean. They are also known as the “long nosed dolphin”, as they have the longest noses of any dolphin for their size. The Spinner Dolphin species lives exclusively in the tropic waters of the world. They span worldwide but only up to 35 degrees to the north and south of equator. This means they do not typically visit the shorelines of California north of the Los Angeles area.
Spinner Dolphins are known to gather and swim with hundreds of other dolphins together to hunt and play. There will be times where you will see over 1,000 dolphins swimming and spinning together in the waters in front of Puerto Peñasco. Spinner Dolphins can jump and leap out of the water up to 8 feet high and they love to swim in front of the bows of passing ships and jet skis.
choice to rid them of competition from their fishing business or by accident from the dolphins getting trapped in the netting of fisherman. Either way the dolphins suffer huge losses at the hands of mankind (or should I say man-hate). Killer whales and sharks are the other predator that hunts them.
A Spinner greets a Humpback face to face
A family of Spinners in front of Cholla Bay
Spinner Dolphins leap high
Walter Brats Recipe
Believe it or not Spinner Dolphins feed mostly at night. They feed on mostly on bait fish and squid and will follow a bait ball of food for miles until they devour nearly the entire sea going festivity. When Spinners are feeding you will also encounter whales and large flocks of birds all after the same sea life morsels. The three groups go hand in hand in the ocean waters. So, one way to spot them while out sightseeing is to follow the birds which lead you to the beautiful and marvelous sea mammals. Like most of the sea mammals of the sea the Spinner Dolphins biggest predator is man. Man either kills the dolphins by
Just like the humpback whales that I wrote about in January, I encourage you to watch the Spinner Dolphins in action around the waters of Rocky Point. They are out in front of you every day of the week and all year long. If you don’t see them it only means that you are not looking for them. There isn’t any other way for me to ‘Spin’ this story, other than to say; Respect the ocean’s creatures, enjoy the all of the wildlife the ocean brings to you and have fun observing the seas that are full of life as long as we obey the rules of nature.
Spinners love riding the bow of boats
This month we will focus on the origin how a kind of “Wiener Classic”, the “Wiener Schnitzel” came to be. The example of music will show us why the “Wiener Classics” is kind of famous in the world today. It was being molded through Musicians that were not born in Wien. Here are some examples: Joseph Haydn came from the lower Austria Rohrau, Mozart from Salzburg, Beethoven from Bonn in Germany. In the whole world all these musicians are known as chief representative of the “Wiener Classic”. Similarly we can find something in the Austrian kitchen with their famous product, the classic of the “Wiener Schnitzel.” To admit it openly: The Wiener Schnitzel comes from Italian; the Lombardi imported it. Behind the “Wiener Schnitzel” puts the Costoletta alla Milanese, the chop of Milanese. It comes to life between the 14th and the 16th century common area. Felice Cunsolo takes it in his book “Guida gastronomica d’Italia (1969) back to the polite manners, those wealthy people covered this Costaletta with gold leaf (because doctors praised the gold as a medicine for the heart). After this was banned, he was looking for an optical replacement. It was found: The meat was rolled in flour, egg and grated bread rolls and cooked in hot fat. In the meantime the wiener cooks modified the recipe. Instead of chops the juicy piece of veal nut was used. Here now is an original recipe of “Wiener Schnitzel”. WIENER SCHNITZEL (For 2 Persons) 4 veal cutlets (Schlegel) 120140 g, Salt, 60 g flour, 2 eggs, 80 g breadcrumbs, 200 g Fat. Schnitzel meat not too thin (4 mm thick), cut the fat hautraender slightly, so that the cutlets during the cooking are not contracting and curving . Then salt the chops from both sides, coat with flour and pass through the whipped egg, drain well and contact the meat immediately through the breadcrumbs, while pressing lightly. Bake (fry) breaded Schnitzel immediately in hot Fat. From both sides 1 ½ Minutes. During cooking, shake the pan again, so that the hot fat can wash away over the top of the Schnitzel and the panat comes up. The panat must go up on some places and does not stick to the meat. That’s all. Bon Appetite
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The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
The first two months of the year are always a blur for me. January is living down that party where I rode a burro on Calle 13 wearing nothing but a sombrero and huaraches. February in the frigid U.S. was Punxsutawney Phil poking his head out of his burrow, seeing his shadow and predicting even more miserable weather. Here in Rocky Point, I poked my head out of Flavio’s, saw a pelican fly by and predicted another eight months of sunshine and sea breezes. But March is a different animal altogether, as the whales head back south to Baja, and the tourists decide there’s no place like Arizona’s Ocean to spend a long weekend or two having fun.
GRETCHEN: Are you flirting with me?
CAP’N GREG: Is your name really Gretchen?
CAP’N GREG: Perhaps I could buy you both lunch? Would that delay the carnage?
GRETCHEN: Yes. Do I look like a Gretchen? CAP’N GREG: The Gretchen of my dreams. GRETCHEN: Is that good? CAP’N GREG: Blond. Busty. Beautiful. You have no idea.
CAP’N GREG: I’m too old to flirt. Call it a death wish. GRETCHEN: That’s what I thought, because my twin brother is Hans. CAP’N GREG: Hans? Well, at least your dad batted .500 in the naming department. GRETCHEN: Hans is standing right behind you. HANS: Hello, little man. CAP’N GREG: I don’t believe I have ever seen a person as handsome and as virile. GRETCHEN: Hans could crush your bald head like a grape.
HANS: Maybe. If the food is good. CAP’N GREG: I’m sure the chef will do his best. GRETCHEN: Is Rocky Point always this exciting, Cap’n Greg?
GRETCHEN: My dad was in the Air Force in Germany. He thought it was a good name.
CAP’N GREG: I’ll let you know after we enjoy the shrimp cocktails, quesadillas, fish tacos, tequila shots and half a dozen Tecates.
CAP’N GREG: I appreciate his service, his genes and his child naming abilities.
CAP’N GREG: Ay, caramba.
GRETCHEN: Hans doesn’t drink.
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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The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
(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
Please do not forget our raffle of the 2 bedroom house on the beach – donated by Lori Ramirez. Drawing to be March 14th at Giuseppis at noon. Tickets can be purchased at the center here, from Lori, Anita at Giuseppis, Alicia at the Rocky Point Times or Barb at her rescue. Proceeds to benefit both rescues. Call for more information Nancy 383-1012 or at numbers below.
CLINIC
The free spay/neuter clinic the last week-end in January 2015 was a huge success. Fighting the rain the first day we got off to a late start but a total of 248 animals were fixed in 2 ½ days. The next clinic will be held in May. Dr. Eliel head of the health department has now conducted 12 free spay/ neuter clinics. A big thank you to Dr. Eliel. A big thank you to our own northern Mexico veterinarians: Alfredo Manriquez Durán (Guaymas), Armando Arenas Lagarda (Hermosillo), Edgar Orlando Espinoza Cruz (cd. Obregón), Inés Ramos (Nogales) and Fernando Quijada (Nogales). Also two veterinarians from Puerto Peñasco, Edith Enrique with the city and Dr. Chochoy (Javier Morales) And all that volunteered. We also want to thank the many volunteers that offered their services. Including the dog catchers who did the prepping of the animals.
ANIMALS
The dogs are very visible but there are many cats in the city that are in need also. Many cats were brought to this clinic. We are making a huge difference in cutting down the population of both cats and dogs. This month we would like to feature Harley a very smart Border Collie. He was found living on the streets and has been at the center for at least 6 months now. Harley is a bit of an escape artist so a good high fence (at least 6-8 feet is required). He is a love and will make a wonderful pet. He has his shots and has been neutered. Harley gets along with other dogs but he is an Alpha!! We would also like to feature Sylvester – one of many wonderful cats here at the center. March and April mark the beginning of kitten
season. We are in need of dry kitten food so we can be prepared for the arrival of the new kittens. Also baby blankets, small soft beds and kitten bottles will be needed. We paid for many surgeries this last month on animals that were hit by cars or just in need!!! Sylvester – broken leg, Pinto – badly broken femur, 2 females spayed, 2 males neutered, Holly – treatment with Chemotherapy for her cancer – ongoing and many treated for Mange and Tick Fever. We appreciate your help with our medical fund. Please note on your donation that it is for the medical fund. You can donate on Paypal on Facebook or on our web-page www.rpaac.org. We are a 501©3 Corporation so your donation is tax deductible. Please make checks out to AACORP – address below. We try to wait for the free clinic to do our spay/neuters but that is not always possible and we do pay our local Veterinarians for this service.
NEEDS
Cleaning supplies of all kinds, brushes, dog beds – Costco has them for $25, Collars, 2 ½ gallon food feeders, Panacur – dewormer, clinic supplies including sutures, gauze, paper towels, large scale and whatever you may have for the animals. A BIG thank you to all that help. HAPPY SAINT PATRICKS DAY TO MY FELLOW IRISHMEN!!! 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
LOOK OUT ROCKY POINT… ‘CAUSE SPRING BREAK IS HERE!! WAHOO!!!
By Mark Paliscak
Well, it is that time of year again when we can pack up our long pants, jackets, sweaters, boots and other warm garb and break out the swim trunks, bikinis, beach towels, beach chairs, sporting equipment, sunglasses and oh yes, that coconut scented sun tan lotion! AHHHH… SPRING BREAK is upon us! And, if you are not in Rocky Point, you need to get here to enjoy SPRING BREAK 2015 ASAP!! March is officially the start of the spring break season with universities, high schools and grade schools having their breaks at different weeks throughout March and April. From Arizona, California, New Mexico, Colorado, Texas and virtually the rest of the western USA and many other Midwest and Eastern states, the students are ready for a much needed break and vacation. Over the years, Rocky Point has become more and more popular amongst other Mexican cities as well including Hermosillo, Chihuahua, Mexicali and other northern Mexico cities and pueblos. The fact is, Rocky Point is a beautiful, safe place to vacation where your money goes far, the friendships go even farther and the gorgeous views just seem to go forever. What’s hot for this spring break… **Rocky Point is famous for its amazing beaches. From Sandy Beach to the Mirador to Las Conchas to Playa Encanto…we have an array of amazing beaches to enjoy. Whether you are looking to do some people watching or sporting events or just kicking back in a relaxing atmosphere free of others, there is always a place to call YOUR home on the beach here in Rocky Point. **There is a large array of water sports to try out while you are here. Some of the more popular water sports are the banana boat rides (always a hit with all ages), kayaking, jet skiing, water skiing, surfing, wind surfing, boogie boarding, parasailing, boating and yes one of my kick back likes is just floating on a relaxing raft. I always make an effort to try a new water sport each year and to revisit my faves for sure! There is such a wide variety of water sports to choose
from and with the water temps in March making the sports even more enjoyable, your options are boundless. So seize the day and hop on a new ride and enjoy our beautiful sea! **When it comes to Spring Break...it’s all about the BARS BARS BARS and where else do we have such an abundance of bars than right here in Rocky Point! As usual, there is all sorts of bar promotions going on to get you to try out a new locale or revisit an old favorite watering hole. In Old Port, watch for the drink special cards being handed out all around the Malecon area. On Sandy Beach, just watch the stream of cars heading out to the favorite watering holes like Wrecked At The Reef or Banditos. If you are staying at or near a resort, they too will have their Spring Break specials at their resort or hotel bar. But PLEASE, always plan ahead and arrange for a designated driver or hail one of the many cab companies available to you all around town. We want you back and we want you SAFE! Any way you slice it or sip it or shoot it, it’s all about good times with old and new friendships and forgetting your troubles and stresses of home and chilling out for an awesome Spring Break at one of our world-famous fun-time cantinas! **Your Spring Break would not be complete without checking out the abundance of restaurants we have in town. And when in Rocky Point, it’s the seafood that you just cannot beat. Shrimp is the catch of the town and some of the best one can find anywhere! But don’t stop at the shrimp…there are so many varieties of fish available right from our sea, that it is always a good idea to try a sample plate to tantalize your palate. Clams, oysters, lobster, squid and mussels are just some of the other seafood that you can regularly find on our menus...so BON APETIT mi amigos! I sooo look forward to seeing YOU at the beach in Rocky Point this SPRING BREAK. Be sure to pack your SMILE, your WARMHEART, your FUN SPIRIT and your incredible SELF! As always when heading out to the beach or out and about around town, pack an extra token of kindness to give to a random person in need. They will be truly amazed at your generosity, however you will be even more amazed at the difference YOU can make in the lives of others. YOU have the power to change our world one gesture and ONE act of kindness at a time so please remember to reach out and touch another’s life…I promise you, you will be blessed! HAVE FUN AMIGOS…GOD BLESS… and from all of us at the Rocky Point Times, HAPPY SPRING BREAK 2015!! SALUD!! ADIOS AMIGOS…
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The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
Upside Down or Right Side Up? By Dr. Shelly Persad
Where does the sea end and the sky begin? That’s my question every time I’m upside down. This isn’t a new sport or a personal pastime of mine; it’s actually called inversion therapy which involves putting your body into a position where your head is lower than your heart. Although humans may not have been inverting as long as spider monkeys and bats, who spend hours hanging upside down in trees, archaeologists have found evidence that some humans were inverting as early as the Stone Age! And you’ve been warned – you may see more people around Rocky Point hanging upside down, as per my health recommendation. Why? What are the benefits of seeing the ocean upside down? We’re not in need of a significant advantage over our rivalries, such as the ninja warriors of ancient Japan who used inverting rituals to keep their bodies strong and their mental capacity sharp. But what we are in need of is optimal health. The inverted position reverses the harmful effects of gravity, which causes you to lose up to 2” of your height over your lifetime. In fact, over the course of a day, you lose ½”-¾” due to fluid being squeezed out of your discs (located between your spinal vertebrae) and into adjacent soft tissue, just as moisture is squeezed out of a sponge. As a result, your discs lose some of their height, flexibility, and absorbency, often times leading to bulging discs. Inverting is one of the most effective things you can do at home for your health and wellness. Here are my 33 reasons why I hang upside down, and why you should too: 1. Prevents back and joint surgeries 2. Repairs herniated discs 3. Relieves sciatica pain 4. Reverses spinal stenosis 5. Reduces osteoarthritis 6. Corrects scoliosis 7. Eases fibromyalgia pain 8. Reduces headaches 9. Improves lung function 10. Clears sinuses 11. Helps you breathe easier 12. Improves circulation 13. Improves heart function 14. Alleviates varicose veins 15. Aids digestion 16. Increases lymph flow 17. Boosts immune system 18. Revitalizes internal organs
19. Improves posture 20. Increases flexibility and range of motion 21. Realigns your spine 22. Speeds up recovery after exercise 23. Strengthens ligaments 24. Improves sleep quality 25. Decreases fatigue 26. Increases energy 27. Regain height 28. Decreases stress 29. Stay mentally alert 30. Alleviates depression, mood swings, and sadness 31. Instills creative thinking 32. Reduces PMS symptoms 33. Oxygenates hair follicles So there you have it, my secret to remaining ageless! It doesn’t take much either – studies show that inverting only to 60° reduces the pressure inside the discs between your vertebra to 0%, compared to lying down where there still remains 25% pressure, meaning that your ligaments and muscles that encase the spine are never fully relaxed. My recommendation is to invert for 5-10 minutes every day to start feeling younger, more energetic, and more attractive! My only word of caution is those who have high blood pressure, heart disease, eye diseases (glaucoma), or are pregnant. To read more about inversion: www. rockypointchiropractic.com/benefits-ofinversion.
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The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
Finding Paradise By Sandy Spain
A literary column By Marcia Diane
Off the Beaten Path
This month I had the idea to write about some of my favorite places off the beaten path in our town. The first two are really on a beaten path, but not exactly a path known for restaurants! The first is Ramon’s new place. You are probably familiar with Cocina de Ramon in town and Restaurant Ramon in the Sonoran Sea on Sandy Beach. Well Ramon has nothing to do with those two restaurants any longer. He has a new place! It is the first full service restaurant on Rodeo Drive! Be sure to go by and see him at “Mariachis and Tequila”. Going West it is on your right in the three story white building across the street from Kokopeli Indian Gallery. The gallery owner, David, is also the owner of the restaurant. Ramon is the head Chef and manager. You can expect the same great food as the other establishments had when he was owner. The décor by Barbara of “Su Casa” store (across the street next to the gallery) is quite striking. While you are in the neighborhood be sure to visit the gallery as well. Absolutely beautiful things.
Watch for future developments at the restaurant where they will turn the second floor into the bar and lounge area with a view. The next is Rocio’s. This has become my go to place for lunch – alone! Yep, occasionally I just have to get away from my busy times and take a break from running around with a good quiet meal. Rocio, a Puerto Peñasco native, opened a restaurant in Cholla Bay in 2011 where she lives with her husband, Memo and three children. In 2013 she moved to a location in town, at Luis Encinas #15&16. This is a very busy street just west of the railroad tracks. There is a light at Calle 13 and one at No Reelection. So you can turn onto Luis Encinas from either way. It is 3 blocks North of Calle 13 on the West side of the street. A bunch of us like to meet there on Saturday morning for breakfast. She has no problem handling our group of 12. Rocio’s is open from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. The food and service are great and friendly. I love the Mexican Combo and my friend Adriana says they have the best chiles rellenos in town.
They are open 8am to 8pm daily except they are closed on Wednesday. We always have the fish and shrimp combo. You can have it either friend or sautéed in garlic butter or a mix of the two styles (my favorite). He serves it with pico de gallo, corn and flour tortillas and the best beans. Not fancy, but I guarantee you will never have better fish and shrimp nor more attentive service nor lower prices anywhere in town. I hear the breakfasts are outstanding too, but I haven’t tried that yet.
Today I’d like to talk about what poetry and writing does for us…why read it, why write. “Poetry is old and it is a community ritual” Mary Oliver shared on a recent interview on Square Space: https://m.soundcloud.com/ onbeing/mary-oliver-listening-to-theworld?in=onbeing/sets/mary-oliverlistening-to-the And in this column certainly we have seen that, from our ancient Chinese poets to Rumi who is a 13th Century Persian poet and Sufi mystic; if anything more popular in more countries today than when he wrote and lived. The importance of the internationality of the community ritual could not be more critical to us today. We are in a world shrinking at an alarming rate…poetry is a bridge across. -----------------------------
Pedro
“Whoever you are, no matter how lonely, the world offers itself to your imagination, calls to you like the wild geese, harsh and exciting -over and over announcing your place in the family of things.” Spoken by Mary Oliver from her poem Wild Geese during this interview--
Rocio’s on Luis Encinas
-----------------------------
Dining area at Pedro’s fish stall
Help Our Restaurant and Business Owners
Mariachis and Tequila Rocio (on the left) and her lovely staff
Ramon in his new restaurant dining area
The third one is Pedro’s. Now this is really a heavily traveled street and full of restaurants – the Malecon. But if someone hasn’t told you about Pedro’s you will not see it! Go to the fish market stalls and look for the sign for Pedro’s. They are under Lucky’s restaurant. Then go through the stall to the open area in the back. There on a floor of shells are a few wooden picnic tables overlooking the rocks and the water. Not an impressive place to say the least - but aaaaah, the food and the view.
Please help our business community. The City is replacing the pavement on that part of Benito Juarez that leads to the Malecon. The construction starts before Latitude 31 and continues to where the new pavement was completed during the last remodel of the Malecon. Access to Latitude 31, Kauffeehaus, Lighthouse, Casa de Capitan and the other vendors along that area is a little difficult. If you want to go to the Malecon, take the frontage road at the docks. To access the other businesses, as long as it is allowed, take the road under construction. Please make the extra effort to support these folks during this difficult time of construction.
Really this poem says it all. It simplifies for the child within us the overwhelming reality of the modern world and gives a peace, a road map for a way forward. And in so doing the brutality and senselessness that assaults us daily can be brought into a manageable perspective so that we do not contribute to that chaos. I encourage us all once again to express what we know, in writing…Mary continued to share in the interview about how many poems she throws away…can you imagine…makes her rather an ordinary girl and so speaks to our ordinary selves. And if not writing, sing, dance and above all else, read, read, read. Join us won’t you for our on-line writers group at: m.diane.writeon@gmail.com
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The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
How Safe are Big Cruise Ships? By Mike Bibb
How can a guy living in the deserts of Arizona be seriously considered as being relevant to the discussion of cruise ship design and safety? Two answers: He can’t or he’s some kind of genius. Actually, there is a third response which is probably closer to the truth -- he’s an interested observer with an exceptional natural capacity of intellect and ship construction curiosity. But I could be wrong. Sometimes I overestimate my capabilities; a fact the wife often reminds me of. When I first learned of a proposed cruise ship port in Puerto Peñasco my first reaction was how could it be possible, considering the relatively shallow waters of the area and extreme tide swings of the northern gulf. Then, talk of building a lengthy pier began circulating among the community. A pier long enough to reach sufficiently deep water to allow ingress and egress of large ships. Without such a means passengers would have to be ferried to shore and back. A time consuming and inconvenient process. Coincidentally, the largest pier in the world is also located in Mexico. The cast concrete Terminal Remota in Progresso, Yucatan, juts out four miles into the Gulf of Mexico. Both cruise and container ships load and off-load onto it. It is not a particularly difficult task to construct lengthy piers, causeways or roads over relatively shallow water. The 100 mile Florida Keys highway is evidence of this. Accepting the local pier issues have been resolved, there is the question of modern cruise ship design and safety. In February 2013, the crippled Carnival cruise ship Triumph stalled in the Gulf of Mexico when an engine-room fire paralyzed the vessel. For several days passengers and crew were adrift without running water, endured sewage flooding and no cooling or cooked food and slept on deck to avoid the stench and foul air inside. Approximately 4,200 individuals aboard ship were later towed into Mobile Bay, Alabama. The mishap was later referred to by the passengers as the “Poop Cruise.” A year previously, Feb. 2012, another Carnival vessel, the Costa Allegra, also caught fire in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Africa and left the ship without power for three days. Like the Triumph, it was eventually towed to port.
The January 2012, Costa Concordia calamity -- an Italian cruise ship which capsized and partially sank after striking an underwater object, resulting in the deaths of 32 passengers and crew -immediately spawned talk of ship safety and design of large passenger cruise liners. The Costa Concordia was carrying 4,252 people at the time. A large ship, but no where near the size of Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas. Each of these vessels can carry more than 8,000 passengers and crew. Surprisingly, the primary issue with these giant ships is not mechanical failure but stability. Modern ship construction has placed more and more passenger cabins and recreational facilities above the water line while at the same time decreasing the depth and counter weight balance of the hull below the water line. Such design permits the ships to enter the shallower waters of the Caribbean islands and certain ports in Mexico and Belize. Almost unfathomable, some of these mega-ships can be seventeen stories high and over a thousand feet long with only 20-30 feet submerged below water. Obviously, a structure of this size is prone to being constantly buffeted by surf and wind. Actually, these towering palaces are more like flat bottomed barges than ocean worthy ships. To compensate for their inherent top
heaviness, ship builders have installed huge stabilizers onto the sides of the hulls. A sort of wing underwater. Depending upon ship size, there can be two to four of these devices. Something called an “air draft,” also stabilizing equipment, is located above water. Together, these apparatuses work in unison to help the vessel stay level and upright. But at what point does a ship’s design begin to threaten its structural integrity, stability and safety? As the cruise ship industry demands larger and larger vessels to carry more and more passengers to generate more and more revenue, there seems to be a point when making more dollars and cents no longer makes more sense. Already the cruise lines routinely face lawsuits over safety, cleanliness and performance. What would the size of a lawsuit be if one of these super ships were to lose power and control, resulting in a major catastrophe? Without the ability to steer and stabilize itself, the vessel could severely list to its side, possibly toppling over. It would not take a very high wind or rough sea to do it. The Costa Concordia disaster established a contemporary example. With monetary compensation to passengers, ship recovery expenses, environmental cleanup costs, law suits and government fines, a large cruise ship accident can cost a company tens of millions of dollars. Of course, insurance will cover a large
portion of the accident, but then the cruise company’s rates are increased. Costa Concordia was one of the largest salvage endeavors in maritime history. It took ten months to refloat the ship and tow it to Genoa, Italy where it was dismantled and sold for scrap. Fortunately, the Sea of Cortez is basically an inland body of water, not usually susceptible to adverse oceanic surface and weather conditions. For the most part, the water is relatively serine and when stormy weather does occur, wave and wind conditions do not mimic the violent extremes of ocean disturbances. The few instances of damaging weather is usually the result of violent storms spawned in the Pacific which lapped over the Baja Peninsula and slammed into the mainland. Even then, the intensity of the storms are usually diminished by the time they reach the Sonoran coast. In defense of the cruise ship industry, I’ll admit most of their vessels are not intended for trans-ocean voyages. Sailing along the tranquil shores of continents and nearby islands cannot compare to cruising in thousands of miles of open water. A ship in need of assistance in the Caribbean, Alaskan inland waterways or the Sea of Cortez is in a much more advantageous position than a stranded vessel 1200 miles from anywhere. Still the question remains -- are today’s gargantuan cruise ships safe or are they just floating disasters waiting to happen?
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Following the Tide with Chuck and Karen Aldridge By Joe Houchin
Since the age of five, Karen Aldridge has lived near beaches; around San Francisco and Anaheim, visiting other beach destinations like San Diego, Tijuana, Ensenada and Estero Beach with her family, and later as an adult with Chuck, her husband of more than 30 years. From their very first date in April of 1980 this friendly, easy going couple have been in love and constant companions. From your initial conversation with either of them, you know they’ve never met a stranger. Chuck, an Electrical Engineering graduate of the University of Texas (Austin) with a cool, calm persona and Karen, a hyper right-brain creative who’s been into photography since her first Girl Scout Brownie camera and exudes a natural talent for sifting humor (á la Erma Bombeck) from every grain of life, no matter how malaisical or macabre. And she’s seen her share of life’s downside as a Registered Nurse with years in surgery, oncology, chemotherapy and hospice environments. When Karen and Chuck discovered the beaches of Puerto Peñasco in 1995 after years of visiting Mexican beaches all the way to Cabo, it was another kind of love at first sight. They lived in Cottonwood, Arizona at the time and started coming down to this little slice of paradise by the sea more and more often. Finally, they uprooted from decades in Cottonwood and made the permanent transition to life in Puerto Peñasco. Their decision was undoubtedly influenced by their frequent exposure to friendly people, the mesmerizing sea, soft beaches and sunsets so beautiful as to challenge one’s logical image of how astonishing heaven’s colors can be. As most beach lovers, Karen has always been infatuated with the tides, aware of how they affect everything from the shape of the beach to the types of plant life, marine life, even the type of shell collecting, and all the other interesting beach activities that revolve around the tide’s ebb and flow. In 2008, Karen succumbed to her ardent desire to combine her photographic talents into a calendar worthy of a take home keepsake by the many curious visitors to this friendly sea side village. Just to make
sure she got it right, Karen distributed 80 of her new calendars as samples, with Chuck’s blessings (his calm demeanor obviously laced with wisdom). Her first creation was well accepted by locals and visitors alike, selling out nearly every year for the last six years. Front Cover 2015 Last year Karen succumbed to another intuition springing from that infatuation she’s had for tides and added daily tide patterns to her calendars. Now, along with beautiful high definition photos of everything special about Puerto Peñasco, the 2015 Calendar contains the tide levels for every day of the year. You can pick one up for $12.99 at any one of half dozen locations in Rocky Point, including: The Rocky Point Times office off of 13th Street Silvia Villa’s Premium Services and Petals and Perfums on Agustín Melgar #334, near Mercado del Desierto. Donna Peckenpaugh’s Segunda This &That on the main road out of the Malecón area. Luis Altamirano’s Puerto Viejo Tostadores De Café in the Malecón across from the little white church with two steeples. And, to order from the U.S. you can go to Karen’s web site at rockypointcalendar.com and click on “Order” for easy instructions. There is much to be learned from the tide charts, especially the tides in our Sea of Cortez because ours is one of the five most highly fluctuating tide patterns on the planet. We get two high and low tides each day, known as a semi-diurnal tide. All tides are affected by the combined gravitational forces of the Moon, Sun, and rotation of the earth. By learning the tide patterns in relation to the beach you are visiting, like the golden beaches of Puerto Peñasco, you can determine the types of shells you are most likely to find as well as many other marine life discoveries in the small tide “pools” left by the receding sea. To learn more about tides and why beach lovers like Karen and Chuck wouldn’t be caught without a tide calendar, you can visit http://en.wikipedia. org/wiki/Tide, which does a good job of simplifying what can be complicated about all things tidal. Then, order or pick up one of Karen and Chuck’s Tide Calendars of your very own before they sell out again this year.
This article is brought to you by the Sonoran Resorts Sales Group, www.sonoranresorts.mx, Jim Ringquist, Director of Sales and Marketing.
Perfect in Peñasco
By Vince Deadmond
It was a warm, sunny, blue sky, calm sea winter day in Puerto Peñasco, the kind of day that needs little polish for perfection. Although some fine tuning can make it even better. First a stop, Reggie’s for the essentials, coffee, donut, and a burro for later. The plan was to fly fish with my friend Jeff Voigt. As an older fly fisher with no disillusionment of being young or handsome, most women are not going to give me a second look, even in my best fly fishing shirt. I feel fortunate when my wife gives me a grin and has a twinkle in her eye. My fly fishing fantasies don’t normally include boobies and wet heavy breathing, but this story does, and I was wondering how close to perfection it would get. We launched our pontoon boats on the incoming tide from the Playa de Oro RV Park, and headed toward the Malecon, from Miridor Beach. We were casting size four Clousers, and catching Cabrilla, Grouper, and Flounder with sinking fly lines. A warm day in the winter time is 70 degrees, cool enough to wear waders, but usually I find them too warm. My friend Jeff suggests poly long johns under swim trunks. It is warm enough, and lighter than waders, but it’s a fashion statement that screams “Rodeo Clown”. Comfort is a big part of perfection. Having rounded the point, I headed for the rock pile with the most bird droppings on it. This has always been a good place to fish. I was close enough to land a fly on the rocks, but cast just short. I stripped the fly rapidly and felt a bump almost immediately, sure enough I was hooked up with a Pompano. I invited my friend Jeff to make some casts into the rock pile. He was busy landing a big Trigger. Yes, this was a good
fishing day. We normally release fish, but today we kept a nice Grouper, Flounder and a big Trigger for Duey in the RV Park. It doesn’t get much better than this. After releasing my last fish I again turned my attention to the rock pile where I was sure to catch more Pompano. Setting on the rocks and taking in the sun was a good number of Brown Pelicans, and various Terns. I am more of a fish guy and sometimes don’t pay enough attention to the abundant bird life that we have here in Peñasco. I was soon buttoned up to another Pompano, and enjoying the struggle to land another fish. Suddenly a shadow flashed over my head and a large sea bird dived on my hooked fish. It was a Blue Footed Boobie, it was all I could do to keep the fish and bird apart. I knew if I allowed the bird to eat the fish my fly would be stuck to a bird that had no intention of giving it back. While I am trying to let the fish go and shoo the bird away I hear WHOoooofff! Uooooofff! I looked up just in time to see a pod of dolphin passing by breathing rhythmically. We have many perfectly good fishing days in Puerto Peñasco, but not all of them have perfect weather, fly fishing with a friend, catching many fish, being too close to big boobies and listening to heavy breathing. Hope you enjoyed this fishing adventure, and I hope to see you on the water soon. 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.
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.
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The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
Rocky Point’s Rodeo Drive Contraloria Sonoyta
• 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.
Ten Questions for... By Dona Hurley
Pam Lebsack relocated to Peñasco in 2003 from Evergreen, Colorado. “At the time I was working at the high school and part-time at Evergreen Fine Art - both jobs were a dream! My thought was, however, I was ready for a new adventure! This has certainly been it!” 1. How would you describe yourself in one sentence? Friendly, outgoing and most always smiling. 2. When and how did you first discover Peñasco? In 2000, I was looking for a place to be able to drive (with two dogs) from Colorado and spend some time, from a few weeks to months, and a friend told us to try Peñasco. We came and fell in love with the place and a year later purchased our villa at the Pinacate.
By Barbara Iverson
Funky to traditional from the smallest accessory to a house full of furniture, sandals, sunglasses, jewelry, ponchos we have it all. Rodeo Drive can brag about their great prices, outstanding customer service and wonderful selection. Now they even have one of the best restaurants in town. Now what more could a person ask for??
As you stroll the drive you see a field of colorful metal flowers, birds and cactus any size any color. You can create your own garden and don’t even need a green thumb. No water or fertilizer necessary. A bit further down you’ll find Rico where I know you’ll want a pair of his custom made sandals. Made right there while you wait or doing the rest of your shopping.
Go further down the street for a poncho also made on the spot. One of the special things about shopping on the Drive is you meet the artisan that made your purchase. Further down is Kokopelli where Francisco displays his beautiful sculpture. Fabiola’s Plaza has marvelous cotton fashions from Guadalajara as well as art and jewelry done right there. Next door is Su Casa with a fabulous collection of home accessories from all over Mexico. Nothing made in China here. You’ll see Sun glasses, hammocks and talevera as you meander further down the street. Beautiful silver from Taxco even a pharmacy. Don’t miss Consuelo’s on the other end of the street and Eddie Wharez just before the railroad tracks. Now that’s a day’s shopping trip. Ready to relax and enjoy some of the best food in Rocky Point? Stop at Mariachi’s and Tequila, great atmosphere to go along with the great food and by the way did I mention a nice cool drink? Believe it or not they are offering corn beef and cabbage for St. Patrick’s Day. Yep! Right here on Rodeo Drive.
3. What enticed you to locate here? After MUCH discussion, I talked my husband into selling our house in Colorado and relocating permanently to Peñasco. I loved the rustic charm of the place, the small town feel and just the idea of living in a different country – something entirely different from where we had always been. 4. What were your biggest challenges adjusting to life here? Well, obviously the language, the culture, the way of getting things done with the various entities, electric, water, phone, etc. I immediately felt at home here, however and loved everything about the place. 5. How do you fill your days? I used to work (for Seaside Reservations), but as of four years ago I no longer am a working girl. I play cards, Mahjongg, read, watch TV, play some computer games, walk, swim and generally just “hang.” I take road trips to break up the summer, but I always love coming back. 6. Besides here, where do you think of as home and why? This is my only home, but my daughter and her family are in Denver, so I supposed I am most connected to Colorado. I do spend quite a bit of time in the Sedona and Cottonwood areas where I have good friends and I am their official “dog nanny” when any of them travel. 7. What do you miss? I miss my family and seeing them regularly and I miss the convenience of shopping, although that is also the thing I miss the less!! It’s a money saver living down here. 8. What here always brings a smile? Anything related to Semana Santa festivities! 9. If you were to leave what would you miss most? The cost of living, being able to receive inexpensive medical care including drugs and, of course, waking up and going to sleep to the sound of the sea. 10. What one thing would you say to convince someone to relocate here? It’s safer and less expensive than living in the U.S. I do believe that once people come and spend some time, they either love it or hate it here. I was instantly in love with Peñasco! Pam has nominated Barbara Iverson as an interviewee. Look for Barbara & Joe’s interview in an upcoming issue.
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The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
AMPI Puerto Peñasco Chapter 51
By Richard Savino
It’s March and that means the start of our tourist season begins in full swing. There are high expectations both in the city government and the business community that we will see an increase over last year in absolute number of visitors and the economic impact of their spending. It’s easy to agree with this scenario as the weather has been spectacular, the whale watching is very active, and the city has been busy improving the streets all over town. I would like to congratulate those who participated and completed the 2015 AMPI Real Estate Diplomado in February. There were 15 people taking the class to become licensed real estate professionals here in the State of Sonora. Additionally, many current real estate agents also participated in order to renew their license. Many thanks to AMPI’s Gretchen Ellinger and her team of assistants and instructors. With 2014 now in our rear view mirror, I have compiled some macro real estate statistics for the United States and for the Phoenix Metro marketplace that may help to put into perspective the activity of our local real estate here in Puerto Peñasco. From the National Association of Realtors, for all of 2014 there was a 3.1% decline in the number of sales from 2013. However, the median sale price of existing homes increased by 5.8%. In the Phoenix Metro market, the total number of sales declined by 5.3% in 2014 from 2013.
Like the national market, the median sales price was 3.4% higher in 2014 than 2013. Inventory continues to shrink which puts upward pressure on sale prices. The fewer number of sold transactions however, may be a result of wage and salary stagnation. When there is a more robust economy specifically in Arizona, we will see a more positive impact here in our local real estate economy. As reported here last month, our local real estate activity for 2014 showed a decline of the number of sales by 25% while the sales prices reflected a fractional increase over 2013. So in many respects, the Rocky Point market reflects the national market in the US as well as the Phoenix Metro market. Spring is traditionally a busy time here in Rocky Point not just for tourists and the rental market but also for real estate transactions as well. These next three months are historically an active buying time and it should be no different this year. If buying or selling I recommend establishing a relationship with an AMPI real estate professional. You will know that you are working with an educated, ethical real estate professional, and that just could be the most important step to realizing your real estate goals for 2015. If you have questions about the information presented here please feel free to contact me. In addition, if you have questions about our market and desire to seek more detailed information please contact a licensed professional from our AMPI organization. A list of members can be found online at www.RockyPointampi. com. Richard Savino is the Designated Broker for Realty Executives Rocky Point and is a Past President of the Puerto Peñasco chapter of AMPI. He can be reached at rsavino1@gmail.com or 480 707-3822 US.
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The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
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
Sonoran Resorts Sales Team Brings Many First Time Visitors to Rocky Point
Enlightenment By Rob Baylor
There is a 50’s song that starts out “This is a song that’s sad but true” and the name of it was Runaround Sue. Well, this is not about Runabout Sue, it’s about me. This won’t be humorous but I am writing it to maybe save someone’s life. This is written Jan 17th 2015 and it all started Nov 7, 2014. I had a total knee replacement on my left leg in Tucson. It was as bad as some said and not as bad as others. I have been recuperating for 2 months, getting around ok, still in a lot of pain but nothing serious. Problem was I got 3 blood clots in my lungs. So they got excited and put me on blood thinners. This has to be regulated so the blood doesn’t get too thin or too thick. All is going good. THEN my wife said “how long have you had blood in you urine?” I do?
So I watched it for a couple days and it got to be like grape juice. Time to call the doctor. This was on Saturday so I thought I would wait until Monday before I called. Sunday we went to a party and my knee not being 100% stable I felt I was tipping over so I reached out to steady myself and broke a bone in my wrist. I hurt all night and didn’t get any sleep and when I called the hospital in Tucson they got all excited. “Get here asap this is dangerous, you could die.” I said that I was coming on Tuesday anyway but they insisted I come right away. I told Nancy and she said she would go with me but being the Macho Man I am I said no I will be ok. Well I wasn’t ok. I fell asleep 20 miles this side of Sells Az and took a detour through the desert and hit a BIG cactus head on. It fell on the roof of the passenger side and almost crushed it down to the seat. A foot over and it would have gotten me. They took me by ambulance to Tucson and everything turned out ok. My truck didn’t fare as well though. I am writing this in hopes that if you feel impaired or your spouse or friend offers to take you, listen to them and don’t try to be Macho like me. Accept their help and the life you save could be someone else’s. I could have crossed over the center line and hit another car and injured someone. I usually write stories with a little humor in them, but this time I felt this had to be told. Rocky Point has a lot to offer for fun. It also has designated drivers and Taxi cabs that are cheap. Party, have fun, eat some of the delicious foods that are offered and come back soon.
By Jim Ringquist
Over the course of the past 4 years, our very own Sonoran Resorts Sales Team have become kind of traveling ambassadors promoting Rocky Point (and, of course, the Sonoran Resorts). We have traveled to the closer cities like Tucson, Phoenix, and Scottsdale, but also to places like Las Vegas, Hermosillo, and San Diego spreading the word. To participate, we pay for a “vendor” space in one of the many home shows, trade shows, travel shows, conferences, or charity events that we have attended and set up our display. Our Agents who attend spend every minute of the show from the beginning until the end in our “booth”. Sometimes they work up to 14 hours per day meeting and greeting and answering questions. These spaces are not cheap either, with the average booth price being around $2500 for an event. Some, like the Barrett Jackson show in Scottsdale and the AARP show in San Diego, are priced even higher. But, even with the cost and long hours we really believe that it is well worth it. While at Barrett-Jackson last month, our sales people gave away about 500 nice wall calendars, 1500 refrigerator calendars, 100 coffee mugs, 300 Ecofriendly shopping bags, lots of pens and a ton of information about the Sonoran Resorts and Rocky Point. We see people all year long that decide to visit based on seeing us there and from our little freebie reminder gifts. One reason that I bring this up is to show everyone once again how hard we work representing the Sonoran Resorts family and our Owners/Sellers who have trusted us with their condo listings. But that isn’t the only reason. The other, and maybe just as important reason, is to let people know that we are the ones out there, on the front lines, talking with folks who are not already in Rocky Point. It is one thing to talk with people who are already here and already know what this place has to offer, but it’s something totally different to go where the vast majority of people have not been here and
a great number of them have never even heard of our little City on the Sea. This one on one interaction really does give us firsthand experience with a general overall section of people from all walks of life. We talk with people from all backgrounds, from all geographic areas, and with vastly differing likes, dislikes, experiences, and financial wherewithal. We answer questions about everything from foreign ownership to restaurants, to dentists, to fishing, to whatever. We hear people’s thoughts about Mexico, their experiences, their retirement plans, and everything else that you can imagine. All of our Agents live in Rocky Point full time and we all love living here. This fact shines through when we talk to people, especially those who have never been here. We talk to literally many thousands of people each year and it is fairly easy to track how many of those people end up buying a condo. What isn’t so easy is to know how many of those same people that didn’t buy from us have come to Rocky Point after talking with one of our Agents. Maybe they bought a house instead of a condo, or maybe they didn’t buy at all but they fell in love with Rocky Point and they now come and rent several times a year. It isn’t easy to know how many of those people eat in restaurants, take sunset cruises, donate to local charities, or spend money supporting our local economy. And, how many have visited here and then told countless others what a wonderful place they have found. Who knows and who can even imagine. If all this sounds like I am patting our team on the back, well I guess that I am a little bit, but the intent is really just to let everyone know that we are doing our part to spread the word and promote our beautiful destination. I really do love this place and our sales people really do love to talk and brag about Rocky Point and the Sonoran Resorts. If you have never been here, come and check us out for yourselves. And, if you happen to see our representatives at an event or show, please stop by and say Hello - We’re sure to have a couple nice gifts for you too.
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 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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Therapeutic Waters By Rosarie Salerno
Geothermal water is created through the action of the internal heat of the earth. These pools of water are known as Mineral and/or Hot Springs. Their temperatures differ from spring to spring; from tepid to very hot. Geothermal Springs are known for their therapeutic benefits. The mineral and gas contents of the water relieves sore muscles, pain from arthritis, promotes healing, helps detoxify the body and more. Mineral Springs have been used since ancient times. Almost every city in the Roman Empire had at least one bath. Pre-Columbian cultures bathed in thermal springs, the Nahuatl word temazcal means house or temple of steam; Montezuma, ruler of the Aztec Empire, bathed in his own private spa near Tenochtitlan. The ritual was a common practice for medicinal and religious purposes by the indigenous people of the Americas. The dissolved minerals and gases found in the springs may consist of calcium, sodium, magnesium, potassium, chloride, silicon dioxide, iron, bicarbonate, carbon dioxide, sulfur, arsenic and hydrogen sulfide in assorted contents and compositions in various ratios of parts per gallon. Water containing mineral salts and sulfur are used to treat eczema and psoriasis as well as reducing inflammation due to arthritis. The hot waters are thought to increase blood circulation, reducing tension and stress thereby, lowering blood pressure. The hot water also opens the pores and helps release toxins. Dr. Andrew Weil believes that mineral baths may relieve nasal congestion as well as musculoskeletal problems, help heal tissue damage, ligament damage and help the symptoms of arthritis. Water containing arsenic is used to treat fungal infections of the skin. Although large amounts of arsenic are toxic, minute amounts absorbed through the skin can actually assist the body in repair and tissue growth. The arsenic is processed by the liver and kidneys and is removed through the urine.
The mineral waters› full benefits are achieved through repeated baths. Contraindications exist and you should consult your primary care physician before beginning hot spring therapy. In Mexico bathing places are known as balnearios (bal-na-air-rios). Balnearios can mean anything from an undeveloped local pool to a lavish resort spa with lush common-grounds. Local springs are called aguas termales while balnearios has the connotation of a facility with spa services, including food and lodging. Many balnearios have swimming pools filled with hot mineral water. There are more than 1,000 natural springs and spas throughout Mexico. If you go to a balneario do not be tempted to go au natural as you may wind up in jail; public nudity is unlawful in Mexico. The town of Juan Cosala, near Lake Chapala, is known for its hot spring. Agua Hediona, just southeast of Mexico City, boasts the largest swimming pool of sulfur rich warm water, heated by the volcanoes of Popocatepetl and Ixtazluatl. This pool features water slides, waterfalls and hydro pools. Tecotzautla near Queretaro features a geyser of spouting waters that is diverted to the soaking pools. The Hacienda Taboada is one of the most plush spas in Mexico, with an Olympicsized pool of hot mineral water, 15 acres of manicured gardens and gourmet food; located just outside San Miguel de Allende. Acapulco is also known for its first class resort spas. Closer to home is the town of Puertecitos, just 90 Km (55 miles) south of San Felipe, Baja California. Hot springs are revealed when the extreme tides recede back into the Sea of Cortez. The pools of sea water heat to varying temperatures. If the water gets too hot just move to a pool situated closer to the ocean. The list can go on and on. The numerous options are difficult to describe in this short essay. Searching the internet will reveal many locations. There are videos on YouTube that are also available. As the saying goes,» One picture is worth a thousand words.»
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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Sea of Cortez-Search and Rescue by the Mexican Navy
By Anita Kaltenbaugh
“Just sit right back and you’ll hear a tale a tale of a fateful trip, that started from this tropic port, aboard this tiny ship.”*
Rescate based at the Naval station in the harbor. Darren Tosetto and Ed Brockmeyer, both boat owners on board were surprised at the quick response and the great experience of the SAR unit. Tosetto states, “they were extremely professional, fast, attentive and engaged to make sure everyone was OK.” Molly Tosetto, the only teenager on board at age 13, remarked of her experience, “It was like one of those movies, it was really cool, exciting”. The group was taken aboard the Navy vessel, and their boat was towed back to Safe Marina by the Navy. Upon return, they filed a report and had a brief meeting with the Port Captain. In the end, they tried to tip the Navy crew, for the outstanding job, and they refused stating it is their duty. Before this event occurred, both boat owners did not know this SAR division existed. The primary mission of SAR is to provide rescue for those in emergency situations in a timely manner. In the majority of Mexico, there are SAR operations within 50 miles of the Mexican coastline.
Last month in Puerto Peñasco we almost had a real life remake of the Gilligan’s Island Castaways being lost at sea. Yes, there were even seven on board, six humans and one handsome boat dog named Truffles, who ended up with engine trouble and if not for the Mexican Maritime Search and Rescue Unit, well, who knows. Most boaters are unaware of a division of the Mexican Navy that exists in Puerto Peñasco Mexico. If you run into trouble in the Sea of Cortez, there is a Maritime Search and Rescue unit (SAR). This SAR Unit is under the Mexican Navy and is responsible for improving the quality and effectiveness of the Navy’s response to Mexico’s maritime emergencies. Photos taken by Ed Brockmeyer This group of seven American castaways were on a whale watching trip on a boat, In Puerto Peñasco, the number for the ASDIP, a 23 ft. Sea Ray. The whale spouts Mexico Navy SAR (Search and Rescue) were spotted about eight miles out and is (638)-383-1691. If you are a boater put the group, despite the wind picking up, this in your phone, it may just save your set their sites on the horizon and cheered life one day. happily at the whale encounter. As in all So, since we have the SAR Unit, the good boat stories, the wind picked up, next Gilligan Islands television series the waves started rolling, and the engine is probably not going to be shot in started making noise and the boat shut Rocky Point. (Although any Hollywood down. Attempting to contact a friend producers out there reading this, this on a sailboat, the friend Captain Bill classic 1964 American comedy sitcom Hensler, contacted Villa in Cholla at the needs a modern comeback. And if you Radio Shack, and he contacted the Marina need a setting how about the beautiful Sea of Cortez?) The crew of ASDIP says Thanks, Mexican Navy SAR Unit! For a creative fun video of this rescue go to http://www.examiner.com/article/ R o cky-Point-Mexico-b o at-res c ueimportant-info-for-boaters *lyrics from Gilligans Island Photos taken by Ed Brockmeyer 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.
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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 cell 638-110-2200. 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) 539-0381 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 3pm on the 3rd Wednesday of the month 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.
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
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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The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
Re-inventing the Ajo Chamber of Commerce: A Center for Tourism
What is the Ajo Chamber of Commerce? I am sure most of us would be able to define it as some entity in town where different decisions are made and many town activities are run. Since I began working for the Chamber, I have realized that it is so much more than that. The organization and the passionate people behind the operation are taking massive strides to benefit Ajo and bring our town to its full potential. The Ajo Chamber of Commerce is re-inventing itself and becoming a center focused primarily in tourism. This concept has some exciting potential benefits to the businesses of Ajo, members of the community as well as the many visitors that pass through the town each year. Let’s look back at how far the Chamber has come in the last few years and the plans for the future.
The Chamber of Commerce is located in the newly renovated Historic Train Depot in the Ajo Plaza. In 2008, the process of bringing the depot to its former glory began. The almost 700 thousand dollar project included the purchase and historic rehabilitation of the Ajo Train Depot by Pima County and the International Sonoran Desert Alliance, Inc., a local non-profit organization based in Ajo. Construction was completed in March of 2013. Until the renovation, the Ajo Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center was located on Highway 85 set back from the road. It was relocated to the train depot making it much more visible from the state transportation corridor used by nearly one million cars traveling annually to Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument and Rocky Point, Mexico. Upon entering the new visitor center, brochures and maps from towns and attractions all over the state of Arizona can be found. In addition to state information, several new brochures developed by the Ajo Chamber of Commerce marketing committee were developed and are on display. One of the brochures is a walking tour of the Historic Plaza area and discusses the history and architecture of the churches and a few of the old homes in town. There is also a new Ajo town brochure featuring updated pictures and information. Also available is the Ajo scenic loop tour which takes tourists around the back of the New Cornelia open-pit mine. Different sites are highlighted along each milepost in the brochure. The latest addition nearing completion is the bike tour brochure including maps of bike trails in the area with varying levels of difficulty.
Also incorporated in the visitor center is the gift shop brimming with trinkets and treasures representative of the surrounding desert environment. A rustic figurine of a javalina with a mischievous grin or a jackrabbit with long ears and soft whiskers don the many shelves. Take home an original painting with a sprawling desert landscape created by one of the many local artists. Feeling adventurous? Try some of the prickly pear cactus candy. Since the opening in March of 2013, the visitor center and gift shop has welcomed close to 5000 visitors from Ajo, around Arizona and over 46 states as well as International visitors representing more than 21 countries. This explosion of visitor activity has called for new ideas to attract even more visitors and potential residents as well as improve the appeal of the town with a variety of points of interest and enhanced business customer relations. Within the last few months, the Ajo Chamber has held its monthly membership meetings with a much more constructive approach. Guest speakers discussing interesting topics included a variety of prominent people in our area such as Senator Lynne Pancrazi, House member Lisa Otondo, Pima County Supervisor Sharon Bronson, and Kimber Lanning from Local First Arizona. The Chamber now boasts over 61 members of businesses and organizations from around the town. The collaboration of the businesses and community members along with the desire to see Ajo thrive is improving substantially. Workshops have been held with focuses on customer service and courtesy as well as ways for businesses to promote themselves through social media. Another facet the Ajo Chamber is using to promote the area is the development of a marketing plan. This plan comes with the renewed sense of purpose to involve all businesses in the effort to improve the economic climate and lifestyle in the community and also become internationally known for its uniqueness, history, small-town charm and many natural wonders. The goal is an increase in tourism, new homebuyers and investors bringing more revenue to Ajo resulting with the creation of a thriving community and more opportunities for Ajo residents.
Still a work in progress, the marketing committee continues to expand on the Ajo Chamber of Commerce website. It is repositioning Ajo as a destination for tourists of all kinds, potential job seekers, retirees and homebuyers. The site features a community calendar with on-going activities in the town. The website is a beneficial tool for the businesses in Ajo as they are exclusively featured on the website. It also emphasizes our best assets including our proximity to Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, the openCon’t on Next Page
rockypointtimes@yahoo.com • find us on facebook • follow us on twitter • www.rptimes.com Con’t FROM Page 46 pit mine belonging to Freeport McMoran Inc., as well as our historic Spanish Colonial architecture and rich history. It also provides information about the Sonoran Desert and the many natural resources nearby. Ajo was also recently featured in Big Blend magazine and participated in their livefeed internet broadcast from the Chamber of Commerce office. Many long-time residents and business owners were interviewed for the broadcast sharing their sentiment for Ajo and experiences during their time in the town. Also highlighted in the interviews were representatives from Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, several community gardens, International Sonoran Desert Alliance and Curley School Artisan Apartments. With over half a million listeners internationally, the broadcast provided the outlet for Ajo to be introduced as an up-and-coming charming and unique destination. Though still at the beginning stages of this new era for the Ajo, there is such a positive energy around the Ajo Chamber of Commerce which flows from every person involved in
the process of making the community a great place to visit, live and work. I cannot help but feel a new excitement and pride for Ajo since being in the middle of the changes and seeing the work being done behind the scenes. As the community of Ajo begins to grow and gain popularity, the Ajo Chamber of Commerce mission statement holds true and represents the beliefs and desires for the businesses and other members of the community as well as the new influx of tourists: “Our mission is to be a unifying force in the effort to create an atmosphere in which businesses can prosper and the citizens of Ajo can be proud.”
Ajo’s Annual Sonoran Shindig Sounds Spectacular! Force, and Pima County. Representatives of these agencies will be on hand to answer questions and educate the public about the lands they manage. In addition, several desert conservation groups will be represented, and they will share their knowledge and concerns about desert preservation with the public.
Sonoran Desert Photo Exhibit
The 15th Annual Sonoran Shindig, celebrating the Sonoran desert and its inhabitants, is taking place in Ajo’s newlyrenovated historic plaza on Saturday, March 21. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and it offers a range of activities for the whole family. The Shindig is a collaborative effort by the sponsoring organizations, which includes Ajo District Chamber of Commerce, the Cabeza Prieta Natural History Association, the Cabeza Prieta National Wildlife Refuge, Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, and Pima County Natural Resources, and Parks and Recreation. Here are some of the Shindig activities:
Music and Entertainment
Local musicians and dancers will perform throughout the day with plenty of room for the audience to join in by watching, singing along or dancing.
Coyote Howling Contest
Think you can emulate a coyote’s howl? Come see how good you compare to some of the competition (don’t worry, humans only). This event is always fun, and some of the entries are pretty darn good. Informative Presentations about the Sonoran Desert There are several governmental agencies that manage and regulate different sectors of the Sonoran Desert, including the US Fish and Wildlife Service, the National Park Service, the Bureau of Land Management, the US Air
The works of a wide range of amateur and professional photographers will be on display during the Shindig displaying the multitude of beauty to be found in the Sonoran desert.
Food Booths and Craft Vendors
What local event like the Shindig would be complete without a host of venues to purchase delicious food and hand-crafted wares? There will be ample opportunities for you to shop till you drop and munch some lunch during the event.
Childs Mountain Tour
While the Shindig runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Ajo Plaza, you can also sign up to go on a tour of nearby Childs Mountain. The tour will begin at 5:30 p.m., and it will enable the participants to watch a spectacular Sonoran Desert sunset from atop one of the highest mountains in the vicinity. All in all, the Sonoran Shindig is a “don’tmiss-it” chance to learn something about the Sonoran Desert that you didn’t know and to enjoy a day in Ajo where “the Summer spends the Winter.”
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Skullyz Cantina - New bar in Rocky Point opening March 7, 2015
By Anita Kaltenbaugh
One of my favorite locations for a bar in Rocky Point is what was once the old Sunset Bar, at the end of Calle 13, most recently it was Wrecked at Rick’s. Over the years, a plethora of memories has been created in this spot. In the adjacent lot, some of the first Roger Clyne concerts happened here, and over the year’s lots of bike week memories. This month, a new bar is taking over the cherished spot. Phoenix owners Craig and Dawn Hanna, are hoping to create that friendly local bar. They’re not looking to recreate a Scottsdale club or a dive bar; they are hoping to have a fun place with fair prices, great food, and friendly faces. One of the great offerings is Free Breakfast every morning with the purchase of any drink. Skullyz Cantina, open Thursday through Monday, will offer the basic breakfast for free, two eggs, bacon, potatoes and toast to those who get up in the morning and don’t feel like cooking. Saturday and Sunday they will also offer the local’s favorite, Menudo. The owners are searching for the best tasty food, offering five kinds of burgers, onion rings, twisty fair like fries and bacon wrapped jalapenos stuffed with carne asada (Yumm!). Ceviche, bacon wrapped shrimp and clams will also be on the menu.
Big fans of bike week, they have attended the Bike Rally from its inception in 1999. They laugh and call themselves, the no plan gang, NPG. Craig, who had enough of Corporate America after working 20 years at Honeywell, was
tired of the rat race and searched for an enjoyable job, where he could witness something nice and see the finished product. The bar wasn’t in the plans, but now it is. He said it was how he moved to Phoenix, he came from a small mining town in Southern Illinois, to find a place to ride a motorcycle without a helmet and stayed.
I asked them, “what would most people not know about you?” they stated “well; we met in a bar, after a bad day.” Dawn, who never went to a bar by herself, spontaneously went after a bad day and met Craig. Perhaps if your single, and you’ve had a bad day, Skullyz might be a place to meet your special someone, unexpectantly. Just like the no plan gang, no plans just let destiny do its thing--Yes, it’s Ok to come here by yourself. Sunday nights are Service Industry nights, and anyone wearing their shirt, name tag or proves they work in the Service Industry can have happy hour prices all night long. Come in and put your feet up, relax and hey if you have any suggestions or looking for your favorite drink, just let the owners know, they are open to recommendations.
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.
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Whale Watching Off the Beaches of Puerto Peñasco! By Joe Houchin
Approximately 80 species of whales roam the world’s oceans and seas, about one third of them spend time in the nourishing warm waters of the Sea of Cortez, as permanent residents like the fin and sperm whales, and/or a good many of the rest of the species at least drop by the southern entrance to the middle of the Sea during their migration in search of mates and to enjoy the variety of foods that live here.
Do you think human mammals travel great distances for the extended enjoyment of a refreshing sea and oh so pleasant weather (plus the dozens of other intrinsic amenities particular to our little slice of paradise by the peaceful sea)? Consider our mammoth marine mammals who, by instinct developed over a period of 50 million years, travel tens of thousands of miles each and every year— with no vehicle other than shear personal energy—oh, and without stopping for a single meal during the grueling trip from the near freezing arctic waters to the kinder blue Sea of Cortez. Many of whom sing their own original love songs all the way and in such a deep resonance as to be heard (and felt) for up to 20 miles around. When you’re traveling that far to meet a mate, it stands to reason that you
can’t start announcing your intentions too early, eh? If we gave trophies for the mammalian winter visitor traveling the furthest to enjoy our glistening sea, the Humpback Whale takes it flippers down. Humpbacks at around 15 meters long and weighing in at 25 to 30 tons migrate round trip from the northern Polar regions to as far south as Cape Horn each year in search of a mate. Fortunately for us, the humpback whale seems to have a lot of fun swimming up the Sea of Cortez to our calm waters near Puerto Peñasco. In the last few years we’ve seen more and more of them coming in closer to the inhabited beaches—so close, in fact, that it’s not rare that you can photograph them from your balcony! Only a few years ago, we had to go out 10 to 15 miles to catch a glimpse of humpbacks and fins frolicking freely across the sea surface. Last year and this year, as these photos reveal, they are within plain sight of Sandy Beach. And what an exciting sight it is!
You can recognize a humpback right away because it lifts its wide heart-shaped tail (called a “fluke”) straight up into the air as it dives. But how it gets its name is from the hump shape it makes with its back as it prepares to dive, as shown in these up close and personal shots by our friend and professional photographer, Tony Ballesteros. Your first sign that you’re about to see a humpback, or other whale for that matter, is by the powerful misty spray that shoots upwards of 20 feet in the air just as they surface. As mammals, these animals must breath, so after a deep dive of up to a quarter to half a mile during which they may take up to 15-20 minutes or longer, a whale is quite anxious to exhale and take in some fresh oxygen. The antics of a humpback include slapping their huge flukes flat against the surface in rapid succession, called “lobbing”, which causes an extremely loud sound. Marine scientists have several theories about why a whale does this: it could be to stun their prey, attract a mate, or defend a mate. Perhaps their most famous maneuver, and a truly awesome sight, is their ability to breach from the water, causing their entire body to clear the surface on occasion. And
there is no “belly flop” even remotely like that of a 30 ton belly flop! There is so much more to see and be in awe of during a whale watching trip that everyone who chooses to visit Puerto Peñasco from December to March should reserve a trip. In fact, there have been whale sightings as early as last November, and last year there were sightings in April. Fin whales are still a bit shy and hang a little farther out, but the humpbacks seem to have adopted our nearby waters as their playground. According to Oscar Preciado, Captain of this 42 foot sailing catamaran, Tempo, when humpbacks find a place where the water is right and they feel comfortable, they’ll return year after year. And they are quite an animated bunch as well, fun to watch and photograph because they have no fear of boats or people, especially if the boat pilot knows how to approach and follow the big guy to keep Oscar him in a playful mood. Oscar earned the moniker of “The Whale Whisperer” through his uncanny ability to keep these giant cetaceans playing extremely near the boat, much to the glee of his passengers.
In impeccable English, Oscar shares his extensive knowledge of marine life, vessels and astronomy he learned from the prestigious Cetmar Academy located at the entrance to Las Conchas where he majored in Navy Mechanics. As captain of the Tempo for eight years Oscar is a certified scuba diver, free diver and about to receive his certification in naval search and rescue operations. He is a veritable plethora of interesting facts that he imparts with animated, down to earth humor. His crewman, Alán Gutierrez, not only boasts ten years maritime experience, but hails from a family with several generations of commercial fishing experience.
The Tempo is a vessel with a colorful history of its own, well maintained by Oscar and Alán, and originally custom built for Ben Little, the drummer for Earth, Wind and Fire by the renowned craftsman, James Wharram, known for his quality boat construction techniques such as using pure teak wood hand cut and arched cross beams (4) capable of holding 90,000 pounds each. Below, the vessel sleeps six, has a state-of-theart instrument galley, one head, a food prep galley and mess hall. The boat was purchased from Ben Little by current owner, Craig Kurth.
Even though the Tempo will accommodate 18 passengers, (including Margaritas!), Oscar, as passionate about whale watching as anyone, will make a trip with as few as 5 people. In addition to his trip designed especially to find whales playing, he does a lot of day trips departing at noon and running for about three hours. He also takes sunset cruises departing at 3:00 PM (depending on the season, of course). His whale watching trips leave at 1:00PM and are planned for three hours—but if the whales and passengers are having fun, don’t worry about Oscar leaving them just because of the time! You can book a trip on the Tempo through Del Mar Charters by calling (from the U.S.) (520) 407-6054; or from Puerto Peñasco (638) 383-2802; or by email to Oscar@delmarcharters.com. Also, you can learn more by visiting their web site at www.delmarcharters.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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Windmills, Building Blocks and Palm Trees By Mike Bibb
While lounging about the Playa Bonita RV Park and studying the gawky new windmill electric generator protruding above the dunes, I came to the sudden realization there must be a logical reason someone would construct such a behemoth near the city limits of a picturesque seaside community. Later, I heard the land was previously owned and sold by a Mexican politian and the windmill was erected to produce electricity for the city of Guaymas, hundreds of miles south. Only problem, the thing isn’t operating -- just standing there. More importantly, why couldn’t Guaymas construct their wind generator closer to home? Isn’t the wind allowed to blow there? Then someone told me the new cruise ship pier project has again come to a screeching halt -- for the second or third time. Reason given; apparently there aren’t enough proper sized rocks in Black Mountain to complete the job. Ordinarily, one would think an entire mountain would contain enough stony material of all sizes to finish a relatively uncomplicated job. After all, blasting and transporting rocks from point A to point B is not a particularly difficult task. Dumping them into the water is equally mundane. To resolve the rock shortage problem, huge concrete blocks are currently being fabricated in the same general area as the windmill. The blocks are supposed to replace the undersized rocks and also extend the pier another several hundred feet into the sea. Meaning, of course, even more rocks and blocks will be needed. Who knows how much this is going to ultimately add to the cost of the construction? One thing for certain, specialized concrete blocks has to be significantly more expensive than hauling nature’s dynamited boulders from an adjacent rock quarry. Maybe that’s the idea. With curiosity getting the better of me, I had to see these discombobulations up close. To grasp a better appreciation of the situation, I loaded the wife, snacks and Nikon camera into the Chevy and headed out. No GPS required -- just aim at the big propeller obscenely sticking into the blue sky. First stop, the block manufacturing and storage area a short distance from the new convention center. Sure enough, there they were, several rows of neatly stacked concrete cubes, resembling amphibious and anti-tank barricades of Hitler’s Atlantic Wall. Only these solid clusters of gravel, sand and cement are intended to protect from the ravages of invading salt water. Not being a commercial engineer, geologist or bean counter and certainly having no experience in causeway design and construction, I haven’t quite figured out why it is necessary to use specifically sized rocks and concrete blocks on this exclusive project. What is significantly different about building a rock/block-lined causeway than, say, lining the entire marina entrance and Malecon area with whatever rocks are available? I understand stability and erosion are a primary concern, but seems to me the millions of rocks of assorted sizes are doing
an excellent job protecting Old Port! After viewing the block site, we ventured the short distance north to the windmill. Behold, like a Colossus in the desert it stood in all its towering hideousness -- a monstrosity of tubular steel, anchor bolts and three giant propeller blades. Gustave Eiffel would be proud. Adjacent to the contraption a newly constructed building serves, I suppose, as the office and control center for the project. Only this day no one was around. After taking a few pictures I walked over to the nearby convenience market and asked a clerk if he knew where the windmill operator was? “No, senor.” Which could mean he hasn’t seen him within the last few minutes or the last few days. I didn’t pursue the conversation, thinking I wouldn’t learn anything more anyway. So, here we have an expensive new piece of machinery, unfenced, unattended, and no one guarding it but an uncaring Circle K employee next door. Go figure. When returning to Playa Bonita, I happened to glance into my rear-view mirror in time to see a sight which reminded me of the old comedy film “It’s A Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World.” A dopy tale about a bumbling troupe of treasure seekers searching for an elusive suitcase of stolen money buried in the sand under the “Big W”; a clue formed by the peculiar arrangement of four palm trees into an image of the letter W. Only in Rocky Point’s particular comedic episode, a giant wind generator is cleverly concealed in plain sight behind a clump of palms. Progress marches on. The Sandy Beach area is now replete with several unfinished condo towers rusting in the salt air, a pier to nowhere and a giant dormant windmill. What next? How about a new space port facility to shuttle affluent passengers from the imaginary cruise ship to the International Space Station and back? “No big deal, it’s just Mexico,” is the customary response, which usually implies someone is making money clandestinely, someone isn’t getting paid for work done or someone has already been ripped-off. Come to think of it, that’s sort of how we do things in the U.S., too!!!
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Finding Financing for your Condo Purchase By Jim Ringquist
At this time, there are no US Banks offering financing on condo purchases in Rocky Point. In the past, M&I Bank and a couple others did offer financing, and it is very possible that as the economy continues to improve and prices and rental incomes continue to rise, we may see “normal” financing available in the future but for now, if you don’t have cash to buy your dream condo, being creative when thinking about financing is a must. Local and National Mexican Banks do offer Real Estate financing but as a foreigner it is very difficult to qualify and, even if you were to qualify, the terms are, shall we say, less than desirable. It is not at all uncommon to see interest rates of 12% or higher. With most people enjoying historically low rates in the USA, paying that kind of interest is most likely out of the question. Mexico actually didn’t go through the Real Estate financing meltdown that the US did and the main reason was because banks and lenders here didn’t go crazy offering zero down, relaxed requirements, variable rate loans, and unsustainable incentives. Yes, values suffered here as well but there were actually very few foreclosures compared to the US because their stricter standards were not changed as the Real Estate boom frenzy ensued. When I am referring to “creative financing”, there is nothing really mysterious about it. It really comes down to what works for each individual situation. That means that the Buyer has an idea of what they need in order to Buy, the Seller has an idea of what they need in order to sell, both parties need to be protected, and all laws and regulations need to be followed. We have been very “creative” in our approach to making both parties happy while doing everything right and protecting everyone involved. Here are a few of the options that we have used. As they say “where there’s a will, there’s a way” 1. Formal Developer Financing: We have several condos that are owned by the Sonoran Resorts Developers. Long term financing is offered on these condos and it is probably the best financing that you will find locally. We offer 20% down, 5.9% interest and 20 years to pay it off. Price and terms on developer owned condos is not negotiable. 2. Owner Carryback Financing: Some owners are willing to play “mortgage company” and offer terms on the sales of their condo. But, it is not always as easy as an owner just agreeing to accept terms. There are some laws and regulations that must be considered before we can offer
that option. We do have several condos listed with owner carryback financing available. In most cases, you can expect to pay more than if buying “cash” and most owner financing also incorporates a balloon payment at which time, any outstanding balance will become due in full. The length of balloon payments varies by listing but normally it is somewhere between 5 years and 10 years. This can be a great option for someone who can make large principal payments over time, has a lump sum of money coming in the future, or someone who wants to buy now, wait for the prices to go up, and then sell for a profit before the balloon is due. 3. Lease/Purchase Contract: Once in a while we have Owners who are willing to lease their condo for a specified time period and during that time period, a Lessee will have the exclusive option to purchase the condo at a predetermined price. This is not unlike the Owner carryback in that the price will usually be higher and there will be a set number of months/years in which the exclusive offer is available. Normally an Owner will want a fairly large deposit in order to assure that the Lessee takes good care of the property. This situation is not as common as the others listed here. 4. Use Equity From Another Property: In the past when prices were inflated in the US, we saw thousands of people take out second mortgages or finance properties that they had in the US in order to buy a condo here in Rocky Point. Some of those people got into loans that they later could not support and it caused problems. Others did it the “right” way and things worked out just fine. Now that values are on the rise again, people are starting to see equity in their homes and investments and it may be possible to tap that equity in order to pay cash for a condo here. This will likely get you the best loan terms and also the best price on a condo because the “cash” price is almost always lower than
the “financed” price. 5. Partnership or Fractional Ownership: Many times when one person or couple doesn’t have the cash needed to purchase a condo alone, they team up with friends, family, co-workers, or others with the same challenge. Most people only use their condo a few weeks out of the year for themselves so sharing can really make sense. This arrangement also allows more people to share the HOA, electric, and upkeep expenses. Forming an LLC and setting up a good operating agreement and ground rules is a must and if the arrangement is organized well, this can be a perfect solution. If you do not have a group of people who are interested in investing with you, you can usually find a few fractional listings available. These listings are for a partial ownership of a condo and normally, everything is already organized and operating smoothly. You can buy anywhere from 1/8th ownership up to 50%, or even more. Expect to pay a little more as a percentage of full ownership if buying a fractional. Note: it is important to know that fractional ownership is NOT timeshare ownership. You actually own a percentage of one specific condo and have all rights to use it, rent it, and sell it, unless restricted by your LLC operating agreement. 6. Buy using your IRA or 401K: This is a mostly unknown option but it has become more popular lately as the stock market has done quite well. People generally do not want to take money out of their plans because of the taxes and penalties involved in early withdrawals. This option allows people to buy a condo without effecting an early withdrawal penalty or making any major changes in their plan. Most IRA custodians don’t like the “non-traditional” types of investments such as foreign Real Estate. It’s not that you can’t use your IRA funds to invest in Mexican Real Estate but often your
custodian doesn’t want you to. This is either because he doesn’t want (or understand how) to deal with the required paperwork or, more often, because he makes more money if you invest in one of his preferred investment products. To buy real estate, foreign or local, with your retirement funds, you can set up what’s called a “self-directed IRA” or “self-directed 401(k).” In theory, this means you’re in a position to “direct” the investment of your account funds, however, you still must go through a custodian, asking them to make the investment for you. They may refuse and depending on what you want to do, sometimes the only way to take control of your IRA funds is to establish what is sometimes referred to as a “checkbook” IRA. To do this, you set up an account with a self-directed IRA custodian that allows non-traditional investments. Then you create an LLC in which your IRA invests all its funds. Then you, as the managing member of that LLC, invest the funds of your IRA as you like (keeping in mind that you still have to follow the IRS investment rules, such as no “self-dealing”). This structure allows you to eliminate the paperwork and review process otherwise required each time you invest in something “alternative.” You simply write a check from the LLC’s bank account to make the purchase. We can give you more information on this option and/or refer you to an investment professional who is familiar with this type of transaction if you have any questions. As you can see, it is possible to buy your dream condo even if your bank account is not flush with cash. Creativity is King and what works for one may not work for another. It is important to research your options and to not make any decisions based on emotions. We are very good at showing you multiple options which may work for you and all you have to do is ask.
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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EVENTS CALENDAR MARCH 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! 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 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. 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) 1093766 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. 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 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! Saturday 7th • Mermaid’s Market - Arts and Crafts. 10AM - 3PM. Showcasing local artisans. Shrimp Plaza at Benito Juarez and Freemont. Saturday 21st • Natalicio de Benito Juárez • Mermaid’s Market - Arts and Crafts. 10AM - 3PM. Showcasing local artisans. Shrimp Plaza at Benito Juarez and Freemont. Saturday 28th • CBSC Diamond Jim Jubilee Casino/Game Night at the Cholla Bay Community Center APRIL Wednesday 1st • Fools’ day Saturday 4th • Mermaid’s Market - Arts and Crafts.10AM - 3PM. Showcasing local artisans. Shrimp Plaza at Benito Juarez and Freemont. Sunday 5th • Easter Sunday Thursday 9th • 60th Annual Fishing Derby • April 12 - CBSC 60th Annual Fishing Derby Phase 1 Friday 10th • 60th Annual Fishing Derby Saturday 11 • 60th Annual Fishing Derby th
Saturday 25th • Rocky Point Triathlon at Las Palomas Resort MAY Friday 1st • Dia del Trabajo (Mexico) • 38th El Golfo Run. Email us at rockypointtimes@ yahoo.com for more info. Saturday 2nd • 38th El Golfo Run. Email us at rockypointtimes@ yahoo.com for more info. Sunday 3rd • 38th El Golfo Run. Email us at rockypointtimes@ yahoo.com for more info. Thursday 7th • May 10 - CBSC 60th Annual Fishing Derby Phase 2 Sunday 10th • Mothers’ Day Friday 15th • Teacher’ Day Thursday 21st • May 10 - CBSC 60th Annual Fishing Derby Phase 2 Friday 22nd • CBSC 60th Annual Fishing Derby - Phase 3 Saturday 23rd • CBSC 60th Annual Fishing Derby - Phase 3
Sunday 12th • 60th Annual Fishing Derby
Sunday 24th • CBSC 60th Annual Fishing Derby Awards & Fish Fry
Monday 13th • Thomas Jefferson’s Birthday
Monday 25th • Memorial Day
Saturday 18th • Mermaid’s Market - Arts and Crafts. 10AM 3PM. Showcasing local artisans. Shrimp Plaza at Benito Juarez and Freemont. • 8th Annual CBSC Horseshoe Tournament Friday 24th • Rocky Point Triathlon at Las Palomas Resort
JUNE Sunday 21st • Fathers’ Day JULY Friday 3rd • ‘Independence Day’ observed Saturday 4th • Independence Day
BARB’S DOG RESCUE NEWSLETTER “Help Us Help Them”
By Barb Mumaugh
Spring time is here! We are excited for the nice weather, fun festivals, outdoor activities and for all the visitors to our wonderful city. Definitely make a stop at the Mermaid Market at Shrimp Plaza, which takes place every 1st and 3rd Saturday until April 18th. There are some amazing arts and crafts for sale there and one of the vendors even donates 100 percent of the proceeds to our rescue efforts. We are so grateful for the support! Please also schedule some time during your trip to Rocky Point to visit our rescue. We have dogs of all shapes, sizes, ages, breeds and colors that will put a smile on your face – and maybe even find away into your heart and home! Even if you are not looking to adopt, there are still many puppies that would love to be cuddled, dogs that would appreciate having the ball thrown for them and tug of war games to be played. If that isn’t enough to intrigue you to come by, you will get to see the real progress and change that is being made here at the rescue – both in the construction of new yards and also in the partnerships and collaborations we have worked so hard to build that allow us to save the lives of so many dogs. One of the dogs whose lives has been changed by the work being done at Barb’s Dog Rescue is little Bella - a 9 month old Shepherd/Terrier mix. She was dumped down the road from the rescue and
thankfully found her way to our doorstep and into safety. Many animals are driven out of the town area if they are no longer wanted and dumped on the outskirts of the city so that they will be out of the way and not find their way back. We take in many dogs that wander up to the rescue like Bella and we also have people driving in or out of town who find a dog meandering sadly and aimlessly along the road and bring them to us. These are the lucky ones and we are saddened by the fact that that not all of them are so fortunate. Please come meet Bella or any of the others that were given a second chance by finding their way to Barb’s Dog Rescue. By adopting or rescuing, you not only save the life of the dog you take into your home but also make room for us to rescue another one! Over 250 animals were spayed and neutered at a clinic in February put on by the group of veterinarians from the state of Sonora and the Puerto Peñasco health department – many thanks to all who participated. And thank you all for your support to our rescue efforts. All donations are greatly appreciated and can either be dropped off at the rescue, mailed to P.O. Box 116 Lukeville 85341 or at www. barbsdogrescuerp.com. Please visit us on our Facebook page as well for more 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.
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Music to Make your Feet Move: Cajun & Zydeco
Pirates, Mermaids and New Orleans By Naomi Black
The Mermaid’s Market is in its 3rd year and has become known as a local marketplace to find unique and eclectic ‘mermaid treasures’…gifts, clothing, candy, home decor, paintings, photographs and much more. Each 1st and 3rd Saturday (during the months of October through April) you can find ‘mermaids’ selling their wares at the Shrimp Park in the center of Rocky Point.
By Naomi Black
On Saturday, April 18th, the Mermaid’s Market will be welcoming the Bayou Brothers to Puerto Peñasco as they introduce us to the great sounds of Cajun and Zydeco music! This will definitely be a highlight of this year’s Pirate and Mermaid Extravaganza! But, what is Cajun and Zydeco music? It is often thought to be the music of New Orleans, or perhaps, the music of Louisiana. Modern bands often intermingle and share the songs, instruments and sounds of Cajun and Zydeco music. However, these two sounds - although similar - have differing histories. Herman Fuselier wrote an explanation of these two terms. In an article called ‘Zydeco is Not Cajun Music’ he defines Cajun music as the “waltzes and two-steps originally played by the white descendants of the Acadians” (Acadians are also referred to as Cajuns). While he defines Zydeco music as “the rhythm-and-blues based accordion grooves of black Creoles.” So let’s have a quick history lesson, shall we… Why not? In the early 1600’s, French settlers immigrated to Acadia (present-day Nova Scotia, Canada). However, they were expelled in 1755 and many moved to Southern Louisiana. They came to live in the swamps and marshes of the Mississippi River Delta and many endured a hard life of physical labor. They came to be known as Cajuns and their music also became known as Cajun: simple songs of humming, rhythmic clapping and foot stamping, along with a violin or fiddle as the main instrument. On Saturday nights, the furniture in a house was moved to the side to make way for dancing. This was the beginnings of Cajun music. In the 1920’s, Cajun and Creole musical styles were remarkably similar. Both consisted of twosteps and waltzes (which were considered quite dirty and scandalous by the old folks) featuring the fiddle. The German settlers in the area had introduced accordions which were adopted by both Cajun and Creole musicians. An accordion was a perfect instrument as its loud sound cut across the noisy dance floors! The term “Creole” comes from a Portuguese word meaning a slave born in the master’s household. This term in the Louisiana area generally referred to the descendants of freed
slaves. Creole music in the 1930’s and 1940’s was often called “la-la.” In the late 1940’s, Creole musicians became inspired by the rhythm of blues and jazz. They soon eliminated the fiddle and from then on, the music of the Creoles diverged from Cajun music. In the 1950’s, Clifton Chenier coined the word Zydeco for his music. For whatever reason, it is generally accepted this comes from a French phrase meaning “the snapbeans are not salty.” Clifton’s brother Cleveland played alongside him using spoons and a washboard. Clifton soon had a local metal worker shape a corrugated tin board with a shoulder strap and the first vest frottoir, or rubboard was invented. This became the trademark instrument of Zydeco. In the 1970’s and 1980’s, Zydeco continued to attract new fans throughout the nation as Louisianans moved to California and Zydeco became popular as far away as the West Coast! Zydeco and Cajun music continues to evolve as musicians tour the world and absorb new influences. Bayou Brothers is one such California band, playing both Cajun and Zydeco music. The Bayou Brothers sound is straight out of Louisiana’s bayou festivals and backyard crawfish boils! Their endless enthusiasm promises to deliver a rousing, rollicking, foot-stompin’ musical gumbo you will not soon forget! Get your first taste early in the day at the Mermaid’s Market and then join us for a fantastic evening presentation! Winners of the San Diego Blues Festival and San Diego’s favorite Zydeco sound, you will not want to miss the Bayou Brothers! Mark your calendars and kept in contact for more details! www.penascorecreation.com www.mermaidsmarket.com www.bayoubrothers.net Article Reference Material: Origins of Zydeco and Cajun Music by Tom Dempsey Brief History of Cajun, Creole,and Zydeco online research at www.lsue.edu Zydeco is Not Cajun Music by Herman Fuselier What is the difference between Cajun Music and Zydeco? By Megan Romer Introduction to Cajun, Louisiana Creole & Zydeco Music by Jim Hobbs Creoles by Helen Bush Caver & Mary T. Williams
As a grand finale to the outdoor season, on April 18th, 2015 the Mermaid’s Market will present its 2nd Pirate and Mermaid Extravaganza. The event is a New Orleans Cajun Party with Pirates and Mermaids galore! Ok. Ok. I hear your questions: What do Mermaids, Pirates, New Orleans, Cajun Food and Zydeco Music have in common? What is the connection? Well, I would love to explain. In 1970, I was a little girl living in Arizona and my parents took my sister and me on a trip to Disneyland in California. I think the most mesmerizing ride at Disneyland was the Pirates of the Caribbean. Apparently others feel the same as this ride is still considered by many to be one of the most spectacular attractions ever created for a theme park!
The Pirates of the Caribbean was originally to be a walk-through attraction with wax figurines. Walt Disney (along with his team of Imagineers) decided that the rousing pirate story should become a boat ride instead. It was the last attraction whose construction was actually overseen by Walt Disney himself and he died three months before it opened. However, on March 18, 1967 the Pirates of the Caribbean ride opened at Disneyland Park in California. Today it is located in New Orleans Square. Hmmm. (New Orleans and Pirates, of course!) The ride includes detailed scenes, lavish special effects and memorable characters. It has remained a beloved classic! spiraling over to Hollywood with the blockbuster film series starring Johnny Depp. But, what of Mermaids? Well now, did you happen to see the latest Pirates of the Caribbean movie, On Stranger Tides? Yep. You guessed it - Mermaids! Pirates were terrified of mermaids, or so the story goes. Pirate lore depicted mermaids as perilous creatures associated with floods, storms and, shipwrecks! Pirates told of mermaids who were drawn to the surface by man-made light and singing sailors, only to drag the sailor into the depths of the ocean…Never to be seen again! Of course, on the brighter side, mermaids can also fall in love with humans. Remember, Ariel in another famous Disney story?
What can I say? For me, it’s all a part of the fantasy: Pirates, Mermaids, New Orleans. Nothing scary. Nothing too real. And, all in fun. So…The Pirate and Mermaid Extravaganza – A New Orleans Cajun Party. Now, doesn’t it just sound like fun? Besides all of the Mermaid’s “treasures” that you normally find at the Mermaid’s Market, we will add: Great food (Cajun Boil and Gumbo)! Fun drinks (Blue Mermaid Margaritas or New Orleans style Hurricanes)! Costume contests for adults and children to dress up as a Pirate or a Mermaid. Just a great day to dress-up, pretend and be a kid at heart. This year to really put us in the mood, we have the Bayou Brothers coming from San Diego to introduce us to Zydeco music. You just cannot keep your feet still when you hear this music. So, do not miss the fun! Saturday, April 18th, 2015. www. mermaidsmarket.com
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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) ART GALLERIES MERMAID’S MARKET Arts and Crafts. Showcasing local artisans. First and Third Saturdays 10-3 (October thru April) Shrimp Plaza at Benito Juarez and Freemont. www.mermaidsmarket.com (# MM-1) 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 FISHING BOAT - 1984 24ft. Wellcraft Mariner Cuddy Cabin Twin 150 HP Mercury. Fiberglass Hard top - Aluminum 2 axle trailer, cockpit canvas, 2 captian chairs, anchor, lines, fenders, cd player. Priced to sell $14,500 dlls (602) 499-9968. (#34-1) 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) DENTAL SERVICES 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 TURN KEY FULLY FUCTIONAL ESPRESSO COFFEE CART – Ready to set up. Self-contained with fridge, espresso machine, coffee grinder all included. Ask for Anita or Maria (011-52-638) 383-5181. (#86-2) 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)
HOTELS & MOTELS
PHARMACIES
AL CAPONE’S HISTORIC PLACE - with cozy rooms and reasonable rates. Family oriented. Free coffee and WIFI. One block from the Malecon. Family owned and operated. w w w. h o t e l p o s a d a l a r o c a . blogspot.com. From U.S. 011-52638- 383-3199. (#99-1)
FARMACIAS DE DESCUENTO– DISCOUNT PHARMACY – best prices in Rocky Point guaranteed with 6 locations in town. (638) 383-3131. (#127-1)
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) 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) 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) LUXURY BEACHFRONT CONDO – 2.237 sq. ft. 2 ocean view bedrooms, 2ba. For sale or trade. Can be two separate rentals. Furnished, ready to move in. Close to new airport. LLC Trust in place. For pictures and info go to www. forsalebyowner.com/22804114. Email tessororuby2009@gmail. com (520) 977-4388. (#102-1) 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)
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) 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)
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) WEBSITE DESIGN – Showcase your products or services and reach new customers. Services: web development/design, video commercials & photography. Visit: www.LifeinaBoxMedia.com (#157-10) EVENT PHOTOGRAPHY AND VIDEO – Weddings/ engagements, corporate events & family gatherings. Fluent in both Spanish and English. Visit www. MannySanchez.photography or (638) 107 7086. (#157-11) 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) America’s Tax Office of Arizona – All USA federal and/or state income tax returns prepared for any year. (520) 240-7970 or bobbysvisa@gmail.com (#15715) 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 WANT TO TRADE WEEK RANCH LIVING IN NEBRASKA – for week beach front living in Las Conchas. 4 Brd, 2 Bath, 2 Story Ranch House. www. downhomeranchhouse.com. Email us at Sandyhamaker@ hotmail.com or call (602) 6205755. (#192-2) DO YOU LIKE WORKING WITH PETS? – We’re looking for you! Bring us complete application to the corner of Blvd. Sonora & Galeana No. 301. Pets Health and Care Center. (# 98-1)
CLASSIFIED AD PRICES 25 WORDS FOR $15 WORDS AFTER 25 ARE 20¢ PER WORD
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The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255
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
Enjoy your paper, please include us. R. Ryan Scottsdale, AZ While this is good news, I’m just curious, where is the “legal” dump for garbage? Derek Skains It’s on the northeast end of town, about a mile from the University. Hey, We’re becoming regulars down there…How can I start getting copies of the paper? Neil Richard Brooks, PLLC Branch Manager, Scottsdale Realtor Hi Neil, you can become a monthly subscriber, the cost is $35 dlls for 12 months. All you have to do is mail a check to P.O. Box 887 Lukeville, AZ 85321 to Sandra O’Hare and you will start receiving your copy as soon as we get your payment. Can you publish a list of petfriendly rentals??? Joanne Malitsky Carloni Yes, we always have a list of “Pet Friendly” Hotels on page 12 of the RPTimes. Thank you, Thinking of you. Roger & Jan Buman Lincoln Nebraska Stopped and got bread for dinner yesterday and they had this ever so perfection of cheese (mild type of a cream cheese) mixture in the middle. Yummy surprise. And of course, I picked up donuts and a Danish. Leslie Schillereff-Jackson Cornejo Panaderia on Comonfort (Calle 14) almost to Josefa Thanks for the Rocky Point Times J. Jensen Brooklyn, New York We’ve taken our critters back & forth across the border at Lukeville/Sonoyta for last 10yrs with just a current rabies & current license paperwork. We started with the additional health cert but found it too expensive & was never asked for it coming in & out of the country. And yes we’ve been stopped both ways...also Dr.Chochoy in RP is the best. DebJo MSki Greetings RP TImes! My friend gave me a precious copy of “Cholla Chatter” Volume 29, No. 11, from November 1986. The mast head says “Offical Publication of the Cholla Bay Sportsment Club. The newsletter as found among my friend’s
mother’s possessions. She owned a place in Cholla Bay for many years. I have a place in Las Conchas and was delighted as I read through this nostalgic piece of Cholla Bay history. I’d love to send a pdf. copy to you or snail mail a copy if you like so you can enjoy it too! Also, if you know a sportsmen club member who might appreciate the original artifacts, I’d be more than happy to give it to him/her. That’s basically it for now. Best wishes, Anne Hanson, Las Mareas, Las Conchas since 1996/Scottsdale Anne Hanson Yes, yes...how cool. We want to read it... AND if you bring or send us the original, we will make sure it goes to the CBSC for their archives!!! SandyO My daughter just ended her week long honeymoon in Rocky Point today. She had a fabulous time she said. Susan Leona Atwell We have been visiting Rocky Point for the last 5 years. And whether we deep sea fish, rent side by sides, ski dos, shop at all the dirt malls or hang out at the beach. We always enjoy our week long stay. We are returning next year and have just purchased a mortorhome and are preparing for a longer stay on our next visit. The Rocky Point Times we can count on for all our wants and needs when there. RJ & Marie Rodocker Camden, TN Just discovered R.P. and found paradise! Hope to own a piece of Sonoran Sea…soon! Thank for your hard work and great paper! Vennie & Candi Yatsinko Cottonwood, AZ Your magazine was our biggest and best resource when we are in Rocky Point for our first time last week. Please sign me up! Karen Leroy Flagstaff, AZ Please renew our subscription. Thank you for such a wonderful paper. Robyn Raley Surprise, AZ 85374 Thank you so much for your paper. We really enjoy keeping up with Rocky Point. Thank you, Pam Craigie Can Max’s Cafe deliver a pizza to Toronto Canada. Actually Rosedale. Car won’t start and it’s Raining and the Mosquitos are out in
force. So Delivery would be great LOL Jay Howson Ah Hahaha...I’ll ask! Was great to meet with you and Joe! Been working with Joe since May to get something scheduled, glad it finally worked out! Hope you enjoyed the food, looking forward to cooking for you again!” Julio’s Healthy Meals Sandra this is Diana from Las Vegas, in regards to your post about children and pets welcome, and to those who can’t find a pet friendly place, I did some research and have found several, they need to go under www.vrbo.com and add to the filter pet friendly. There is 1 condo at the Sonoran Sky and the Sonoran Spa, and the Sonoran Sun, and 3 at the Casa Blanca Golf Villas that are managed by the owners, and they all allow pets. There is usually a 200.00 deposit but that is returned 2-3 days after check out. There is also a Casita about 5 streets down from the fire dept. off of Fremont that sleeps 4 and has a fenced in yard for the dogs about 2 blocks away from the beach. That one rents for 89.00 a night and sleeps 4. Hope this was helpful to your readers that have pets. VRBO - The Most Popular Vacation Rental Site in the US Find and book over 620,000 vacation rentals around the world on VRBO Vacation Rentals By Owner. Contact owners directly and save on your next vacation! vrbo.com No kidding! The Rocky Point Times is the voice of Pto. Peñasco! Diana Boyd Since 1993, we have been promoting Peñasco! Enclosed is my check for a yearly subscription to the Rocky Point Times. Thank you. John Fosbinder Had breakfast there this morning. Very good. Frank Feeney Giuseppi’s is ALWAYS THE BEST!! (AND the Peeps there aren’t bad, either! LOL) Please send paper to: Karen Albuquerque, NM And she is right - you and Lannette are wonderful and add so much to RP for so many” Sally Dalton Oh Sally, Sally, Sally...YOU are the best!!
Hi Sandra O’Hare...went to Rocky Point from July 16-22 and had a blast!!! While I was there my son and I picked up a Rocky Point Times and loved it as usual. My mom has always loved going to Rocky Point and was able to be down there Friday to Sunday with my brother and sister in law...I looked over and saw that she was reading my copy and it clicked in my head...I went over on Monday and got a subscription for her to the RPTimes...a gift that I know she will actually love...finally. Thank you so very much for all that you, your daughter, and your staff does to inform all of us. I think of your husband with great thoughts. I had the chance to meet the both of you when I first began going down in 2002. You are always in my thoughts and prayers.” Patricia Newton Medrano Ah man, Lannette and I were out of the country for a wedding and missed your visit. Thank you so much for your thoughts and comments. I have travelled many places in México and never ceases to amaze me how people trash it. I must say that in most parts of our country, we have come a long way in respect for our environment. México should start imposing fines! Diana Boyd Will be happy to visit Manny’s Beach Club and have breakfast on the beach on my next visit!” Marcy Cain Yes, Manny’s is open every day. Was in RP last week, came home Tuesday. The new home port appears to have halted construction, at least Tuesday there wasn’t any workmen or machines in sight. Pitiful how little progress has been made in 6 months. There is no way they’ll make their time table of having cruises in January. At least that was when I thought they wanted them to start. Do you have any updates on the construction?? Thanks. Derek Skains Well, we publish an article about the Home Port each month. The information changes daily. But we can say that January was never a realistic date for a project this huge. I don’t believe we have even settled on a CRUISE LINE as yet. Exactly why we love going to Rocky Point...pets are welcomed!!!! Jami Scaife Cordova
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rockypointtimes@yahoo.com • find us on facebook • follow us on twitter • www.rptimes.com
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54. Bro’s opposite 55. Caustic cleanser
23. PDQ’s kin 26. Dads 27. Poker phrase (2 wds.) 28. Fledgling’s home 29. Openings in seams 31. Apartment dwellers 34. Say “Woe is me!” 35. Brat 36. Set of rules 37. Outbreaks of crowd 39. Agreements 40. “Mermaids” actress 41. Singer Coolidge 42. Anemic’s deficiency 46. Mai __ 47. Building wing 48. Dale’s cowboy hubby 49. Chimpanzee, e.g.
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DOWN 1. Cape __, MA 2. Stout’s cousin 3. Agt. 4. Complete 5. A Stooge 6. Rode a bike 7. Most ancient 8. One who fibs 9. Lady’s escort 10. Questions 12. Move smoothly 16. Motorcyclist 20. Great amount 21. Transmission part 22. Fury
CROSSWORD FEBRUARY
ACROSS 1. Sedan or coupe 4. Ref’s colleague 7. Korbut of gymnastics 11. Cassini of fashion 13. Loafer tip 14. Commits perjury 15. Exhausted, as a supply 17. Wet 18. “__ got it!” 19. Sounds a warning 21. Earth mover 24. __ Gatos 25. Artist’s tripod 26. Children’s __ zoo 30. Turkish title 31. Lass’s companion 32. “Give __ break!” (2 wds.) 33. Comebacks 36. Brittle 38. “I __ Rock (2 wds.) 39. Pencil’s ends 40. Pinches the edge of a pie crust 43. Uproar 44. Engage 45. And the like (2 wds.) 50. Prince Harry’s school 51. Lab animal 52. Pig’s dinner 53. Rave’s partner
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Full Moon Dates
Month/Year
2015
Moon phase
Date
Time
January
4
Full moon
March 5, 2015
11:06:34 AM
February
3
Last quarter
March 13, 2015
10:49:29 AM
March
5
New moon
March 20, 2015
02:38:39 AM
April
4
First quarter
March 27, 2015
12:43:49 AM
May
4
Full moon
April 4, 2015
12:06:52 AM
June
2
Last quarter
April 12, 2015
03:45:38 AM
July
2
New moon
April 18, 2015
18:57:59 AM
August
14
First quarter
April 25, 2015
23:56:25 AM
September
13
Full moon
May 3, 2015
08:44:47 PM
October
13
Last quarter
May 11, 2015
03:36:53 AM
November
11
New moon
May 17, 2015
09:15:43 PM
December
11
First quarter
May 25, 2015
10:20:42 AM
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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
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The Rocky Point Times Newspaper • (011-52-638) 383-6325 • US (480) 463-6255