May is upon us. This is a great month here in paradise and based on the increasing numbers of tourists in town, I'm not alone in feeling that way. Condo rentals are very strong, sales are very strong, and things are really moving in a positive direction around here. Road construction continues to be a headache but the finished roads are so much better than they were before that, in the longer run, it is very much worth the hassles, dirt roads, and detours. Infrastructure is beginning to catch up and they need to keep it going, especially if we have our first cruise ships arriving in only about a year and a half.
Our Home Port continues to make great progress and there has not been a time that I have driven by where the workers haven't been hard at it. We are starting to get some attention outside of town too. Two TV stations in the Phoenix area aired a story about the Home Port and the Tucson Sentinel also ran a very good story about it. Progress continues and word is spreading.
May Day in the USA brings Maypoles (though I've never seen one), May baskets (I remember grade school), and Spring festivals. In Mexico, May 1st is actually Labor Day and it is a holiday, just as the Labor Day holiday is celebrated in September in the USA. In Rocky Point, May 1st makes us all happy because it's the beginning of another month of perfect weather.
There is alot going on this month. Here is a short list of highlights, but there are undoubtedly many more that I have accidentally omitted or have not heard about yet. If you have a chance, you really should come down and attend some of these fun festivities.
May 2
Young Life Cinco de Mayo Fiesta
Cinco de Mayo Regatta
Taste of Penasco
JJ's Bathtub Races
OBSC Poker Run Offroad Race
RP Times El Golfo Run
May 8-10, 21-23
Cholla 60th Annual Fishing Derby
May 9
Santa Claus Club - Chili Cookoff
May 15-16
SADR Tequila 150 Offroad Race
May 22 Mark Mulligan playing at Caribbean Parrot
Last month was a ton of fun too with Semana Santa, the Toma Color Run, the Triathlon, and many other activities. The events mentioned all exceeded expectations and everyone has been very happy about the number of people in town so far this year. Our town has been full of people every weekend and we have been quite busy even midweek this year.
Enjoy your month, come to Rocky Point if you can, and if you need anything don't hesitate to ask. Let me put my experience and expertise to work for you, and remember, as always, I'm here full time and I am more than happy to help you with whatever you need, whether Sonoran Resorts related or not.
Just give me a call or send me an email any time and I will do my very best to help you. If I can't help you myself, I'm sure that I can point you in the right direction and help find you someone who can.
Please check out some of our condos for sale along the right column.
You can see all of our listings by going to our website:
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PART XIII: Economic Impact of Home Port on Puerto Peñasco
Just when we thought cruise ships couldn't get any more humongous, luxurious and fantasy-laden (like, where are they going to dock those veritable floating cities?), the latest builds reveal that new technology and creativity can combine to blow the mind even more than we thought possible.
Hugeness continues with the size of mega-vessels now inching past each other by meters in length, square footage of cabins, total capacity and, oh yes, amenities, activities and entertainment.
From water slides that spiral ten decks downward into giant champagne glass bowls to zip lines that traverse hundreds of meters across the ship-that's right, hundreds of meters as the latest ship just launched in Royal Caribbean's Oasis class of mega ships is the Harmony of the Seas, the largest cruise ship in the world at 362.15 meters in length (395 yards-1185 feet) which also boasts entertainment that includes full Broadway shows, bigger than life visual experiences through interactive movable walls to completely robot operated bars and up to seven themed neighborhoods spanning multiple decks with fully operating carousels...and much, much more.
Click the link below for a graphic of the first Oasis Class ship, Oasis of the Seas (2.15 meters shorter than the Harmony), that will give you a comparison of its colossal size!
These are interesting, fun facts about how high technology, unleashed imagination and seemingly fathomless budgets have taken the cruise experience to heights heretofore undreamed of. But how do they relate to Puerto Peñasco infrastructure needs and plans?
Perhaps they give us a heads up on how much additional attention to detail we should put into the design of that infrastructure; to make creativity a major part of the contractor bid selection, encouraging bids from companies who can best and most creatively include the latest technology in their proposals that result in such things as unique lighting, dreamlike landscaping, signage, building design and every other aspect of the overall needs to prepare for a market of modern cruisers about to board a vessel full of surprising new adventures. Perhaps even more importantly, upon their return, to ease them back into reality so they are still motivated to make Puerto Peñasco their next land vacation choice.
Maybe we can't compete with the surreal technology cruise passengers are being mesmerized with these days, but we could possibly give them a pleasant contrast by emphasizing the historic and natural beauty of our part of the "real" world in which they live.
In the meantime, under the category of first things first, let's get caught up on what's happening with the home port project:
Down by the Pier
Here's the latest from our project insider, Wendy Winzer, Project Administrator of Home Port construction who tells us that the pier has now reached a length of 630 meters. It is taking longer to grow in length since they've reached the water depth of nine meters. They are also still shaping the existing jetty with new rock which they cover with the small one ton cubes so it will all stay in place.
They've poured around 13,000 small cubes (one ton size) and placed 6,000 of them on the jetty. There are almost 3,000 large cubes (10 tons) poured and waiting to be placed. They are expecting an even larger crane in about two weeks that will start placing the big cubes along the jetty. Rocks from the quarry are still being hauled and placed and they blasted Black Mountain again two weeks ago to loosen up more rocks. Wendy also happily informs us, "We have been very busy trying to keep up with our schedule which is going right on track!"
Wendy reports that she has been giving several interviews to TV, radio and newspapers. "It seems the word is really getting out there in a positive way, and with a little help from everyone we will try to give our small town a positive hope for the future," Wendy says.
This image from professional photographer, Tony Ballesteros, captures the essence of Semana Santa in Puerto Peñasco this year (officially from Thursday April 2nd through Easter Sunday April 5th ). It was a long weekend that obviously broke all previous visitorship records, as Tony's photo clearly indicates! Music and laughter streamed from all parts of the beach from Playa Hermosa to Sandy Beach, bandas in front of nearly every resort pool and all along the beach brought trumpets and trombones, drums and guitars providing non-stop dance music to more than 100,000 revelers from across Mexico and the U.S.
From early evening throngs of visitors moved in waves toward the Malecon for sunset, more beers and even more bandas and music, making the weekend one wild, colorful, continuous national Mexican party.
City streets were bumper to bumper quads and out of state plates as gleeful Mexican and American tourists negotiated their way through town. It's amazing to note that there were only 15 accidents the whole weekend and only one injury that would require longer than two weeks to heal and it was not life-threatening. Equally amazing was that only 147 traffic related infractions were issued for excessive alcohol consumption, not obeying the speed limit and negligent handling of quads. Only 34 people were detained for various reasons. Statistics in all these segments are below previous years, thanks to the efforts of Municipal departments working together.
Our beaches were among the leading attractions among visitors to Sonora state and one of the safest. Officials had predicted the number of visitors in the range of 80,000 and adjusted up to 100,000 based on reservations and estimates of family members who come to town and stay with other family members living here. Click the link for more photos that show even the adjusted figures may not have been high enough.
In spite of the crowds, if you've never come to Puerto Peñasco for Semana Santa, you will consider it a unique cultural experience worth at least a one-time bucket list type of adventure.
Music fans around the world saw a sleepy little music festival in the 1990's hatched in Austin, TX grow into one of the biggest, week long festivals in the world literally overnight. How you may ask?
Immediately following the release of 1996's Fizzy Fuzzy Big and Buzzy , The Refreshments (prior to morphing into Roger Clyne & The Peacemakers) were invited to play South by Southwest, or as many people know it, SXSW. It was a showcase of sorts to music industry folks but mainly to music fans from all over the country who heard about SXSW via Rolling Stone Magazine, Paste, Billboard, and dial up Internet! Demand for shows exploded throughout the week and it outgrew what promoters could supply at music venues. Bars, restaurants, music studios and parks quickly became home to non-sanctioned music events which has grown SXSW into what it is today.
Nineteen years later, Roger Clyne & The Peacemakers find themselves in a similar position with their own, band-produced, Circus Mexicus Music Festival to be held
June 11-14, 2015 in Puerto Peñasco. Clyne and his mates have invested 15 years into playing Circus Mexicus shows of all sizes in Peñasco and as with SXSW years ago, has outgrown the parameters it was originally designed for. This year will feature 12 local, regional and national touring bands performing over four days throughout Peñasco, even featuring many of the non-sanctioned shows demand also created at SXSW years ago. Ironically, the Peacemakers just finished up a return trip to SXSW four weeks ago bringing home rave reviews.
"It's flattering, a big challenge and exciting all at the same time," according to Circus Mexicus event manager Greg Ross. "It's my job to execute a unique music experience while not putting the band into hock. We need fans to support the ticketed shows being held
Friday and
Saturday nights, but hope they can take advantage of more intimate shows included with tickets at bars like Boo Bar, Beach Bum, Banditos and JJ's Cantina throughout the long weekend."
The 2015 Circus Mexicus edition will feature 2 headline performances by Roger Clyne & The Peacemakers being held on the Mexican Moonshine Main Stage located behind the Sonoran Spa and Sonoran Sea resorts. They will play completely different sets both nights giving RCPM fans 5+ hours of rock worth traveling from close to 35 states and 6 countries. Shows both nights will feature fireworks, tequila, tacos and plenty of cold beer. Three different support bands will grace the stage both nights with music beginning at
7pm. Fans are encouraged to bring blankets and beach chairs unless they plan to dance up front all night which many opt for. Individual night and combination ticket packages are on sale now at
www.circusmexicus.net.
JJ's Cantina will play host to a four band bill
Thursday night as well as 5 bands all day
on Sunday. Admission is included with an Circus Mexicus ticket purchase.
Banditos Bar & Grill, located across the street from the Mexican Moonshine Main Stage, will host a variety of bands playing throughout the day
Thursday,
Friday,
Saturday and
Sunday evening beginning at
6pm. Shows will take place on stages both inside and outside. Admission to those shows are included with any Circus Mexicus ticket purchase. Line ups and times can also be found at
www.circusmexicus.net.
"One of the things the band is most proud of is inspiring bars around Penasco to invest in live music. We're hopeful locals and Gringos alike will connect with as many of the shows as possible and encourage those bars to continue to offer music on the beach, under the sun or in seaside cantinas," Ross adds.
Not enough to do? Circus Mexicus also features a beach soccer tournament benefiting the Peñasco Youth Sports Foundation and a Supplies Drive which generates household items, cash and personal necessities for the children at La Casa de Esperanza para Los Niños also based in Rocky Point. Or, you can sit on the beach and accomplish absolutely nothing. For all travel, accommodation, ticket and music info, click on
www.circusmexicus.net. Fans are encouraged to buy tickets in advance to save money and time in line.
Flights from Scottsdale to Rocky Point!
Getting to the sunny beach town of Rocky Point was never this easy. Forget about driving and plan your next weekend getaway by flying to Rocky Point with Westwind Air Service and spend more time in the sun by the beach than ever!
Today,
May 1, 2015, Westwind Air Service, a Part 135 Air carrier based in Phoenix, Arizona begins weekly flights to Rocky Point, Mexico. These flights are designed to accommodate the weekend "getaway" traveler. Departures will be from Scottsdale Airpark
on Friday's at
2:00 PM and will arrive in Rocky Point at approximately
3:20 PM. Return flights to Scottsdale will be
on Sunday's at
4:00 PM and will arrive at Scottsdale by
5:20 PM.
Expanded service will be available in the near future, offering multiple departure and arrival dates. Check our website for more information.
Westwind operates a fleet of Cessna Grand Caravan single engine, turbine powered aircraft that provide exceptional safety, air-conditioned comfort and seating for up to 9 passengers.
April Overflowed With Charity, Caring and Kindness In Puerto Peñasco Barrios!
g With so many good hearted groups and individuals eager to help the community they love to visit or reside in, there's hardly, if ever, a day where amazing acts of kindness and charity don't change the life of a child, a family or a whole neighborhood of children or adults.
April was special even among the best of those days when we had at least two missions in town along with Dr. George and Susie Stavros' volunteer medical clinic that has been providing a variety of free services to the neighborhood needy on a monthly or more frequent basis for many years. You can read about their incredible deeds elsewhere in this month's newsletter.
Both of the two missions who came to town the weekend of April 17 had read and were touched by our newsletter article last month about the little non-profit Piñata Factory which is staffed entirely by former students of La Montaña School for children with special needs (read that story at:
Hitting town first was a portion of the interdenominational group of missionaries known as Youth With A Mission (YWAM). They arrived bearing donations for The Piñata Factory that included supplies from a list we had included in the article and Ping golf hats for the kids.
A van load of what was to later number 26 members from age 6 to 67 from the Mountain View Presbyterian Church in Scottsdale, Arizona arrived shortly afterward. They brought supplies and cash for two new tires badly needed for the Factory's van that picks up and returns the staff each day.
Both groups were delighted to find the factory was exploding in colorful piñatas as they were fulfilling orders for "Día del Niño" (Day of the Child). Those in attendance took advantage of the availability and purchased several. The piñata kids were excited to demonstrate how they make their wares and even gave hands-on lessons on how to make these historic party favors.
The Mountain View Presbyterian Church mission came for an extended weekend with a full itinerary of repairs, improvements and people to help throughout the community which, incredibly, they were able to complete in the short period of time they were here. Just take a look at this list of good deeds they accomplished from Friday to Monday:
-Repaired roofing at Pastor Edgar's Good Samaritan Church in Barrio San Rafael.
-Installed dry wall at one of the schools
-Interacted with the children's ministry at 2 churches, including songs, games and crafts.
-Performed cooking, crafts and games at the Amores de Peñasco Children's Crisis Shelter.
-Brought the shelter kids to Las Palomas for swimming, banana boating, horseback riding. Included a piñata!
-At La Montaña Special Needs School, sanded and painted playground equipment; dug, weeded and planted flowers.
-Shared love with special needs kids through games, tattoos and piñatas.
-Painted the house of their friend Lupita.
-Toured the orphanage in Sonoyta and the Piñata Factory to meet everyone and determine how they might provide support on a continuing basis.
-Gave donations to every group they contacted with Bibles, clothes, cleaning supplies, personal hygiene items, paint and painting supplies, a tire, baseballs, Legos and more.
Youth With A Mission came to town for two weeks with the goal of conducting golf clinics for the children of San Rafael Barrio and one school. The clinics were hosted by real professional golfers who are also great caring teachers. They are experienced in carrying the Word-and a golf bag-to clinics they hold around the world. In fact, they had just recently been to...
Not that long ago, I wrote a short story for one of my newsletters telling you how many stop signs I ran every day on my way to work and back. Well, not any more. Fines have been increased and patrols are now citing people for running stop signs, not using blinkers, even parking in the wrong direction on the side of the street - what nerve! Actually, it has been a long time coming and our little town is growing up from the very lax fishing village, into a real-life small city. I now obey traffic laws just as I would if I were driving in Phoenix or Tucson, and it's really not much of an inconvenience at all. It's probably for the best anyway because not everyone is as conscientious and I have probably avoided an accident or two by stopping at a stop sign when the car coming the other direction decided that they didn't need to.
One thing to remember is that the sign doesn't necessarily have to exist in order to be enforced. A good example are the stop signs that are laying in the road, bent to point the other direction, or just missing completely. If you can tell that there are stop signs on the other 3 corners, best stop whether there is a sign there or not. If the car in front of you stops before proceeding, you better do the same.
Speed limits seem to be fairly arbitrary. Most areas of town don't have speed limit signs and my best advice is to just go with the flow of traffic. That way you are not only driving more safely, you are also avoiding drawing the attention to yourself that could get you a ticket.
Above are some Mexican traffic signs. Most are pretty self-explanatory, some are a bit strange, and a good number of them I have never even seen. Below are the current fines levied by Puerto Peñasco courts for various infractions. It is always recommended to go to the station to pay your fine. Do not pay the officer who stops you. Also, if you pay your fines within 24 hours, you will get a 50% discount. Definitely worth getting there right away to handle it.
I especially like the one entitled "Other Behaviors or Actions Not Covered by Sanctions". Guess that's easier than adding another page of citations. That one just edged out "Driving the Vehicle with People Peeking Out" as my favorite. I almost laughed out loud when I visualized that one.
Another thing that has been changing for the better is the reducing number of police asking for a "mordida" (little bite) bribe instead of going to the station to pay a fine as is the correct method of handling a traffic infraction. As stated above, always insist on paying your ticket at the main police station. Paying bribes only perpetrates the problem.
If you are subjected to an officer requesting a bribe, be polite but ask him to please give you a written ticket to take to the station. If they insist on receiving payment then and there, request a receipt. Also write down the area of town that you're in, the time of day, and the number of the patrol car. Don't be rude or demanding or you may end up in more trouble than you started with. You should then report the incident to the comandante at the main police station.
Luckily, this has become the exception rather than the rule. Through stepped up training and strict oversight, the frequency of the mordida has gone way down in Puerto Peñasco.
Sonoyta, on the other hand, is still having a bit more of a problem with officers pulling people over for "speeding" and asking for their "mordida". I have been pulled over only once in all the trips that I have made but I knew that I hadn't been speeding and I immediately knew what the officer wanted. I actually did insist on going to the station to pay, which I did. The ticket was bogus but at least the officer didn't get his "little bite" from me. The best advice for passing through is to do the "Sonoyta Crawl", meaning to drive very slowly through town. Since my "ticket", I have done this and have never had another problem.
The good thing is that the Sonoyta Municipal government is working very hard to crack down on the problem, just as Puerto Peñasco has done. The Mayor issued a statement in response to complaints from travelers and she recommends that, if you have been asked for a bribe, you should report it. Here is the contact information - Please try to get the car number, location, and time of day: 651-512-1172 or 651-101-7145 or email [email protected].
Overall, it isn't a huge problem, but you can all help by not cooperating if it does happen to you. Things have been getting much better - let's keep the momentum going in the right direction and just play by the rules.
Date Set For 5th Annual Sonoran Resorts Las Vegas Night For Charity
Saturday July 4
th is the date to mark on your calendar for this year's Las Vegas Night for Charity, arguably the most fun event in Puerto Peñasco and a sell out every year since its inception. Again this year the event will be held in the beautifully appointed Los Volcanes ballroom in the Sonoran Sky Condominium Resort.
The other date to mark on your calendar is May 10
th. That's when tickets for this gala go on sale. And you can get yours by calling the Sonoran Resorts sales office at (from the U.S.): 602-476-7511; or from Mexico: 638-382-8187; Email Director of Sales and Marketing, Jim Ringquist at [email protected]
The precedent has been to bring something new to the event each year, and this year is no exception. In addition to a few surprises, Jim promises several new games to keep the chips chattering. How about Red Dog, Chuck-a-Luck or Sic Bo? All fun games, easy to learn how to play...and the boards are cool and colorful, too!
The fun begins at 7:00 PM again this year and tickets are just $30.00 each. Each ticket includes one entry into the drawing and you will be able to purchase additional entries into the drawings that will be held throughout the night. Your ticket also includes your place at the delicious buffet which is open a good portion of the night. So, if you get Black Jacked, Rouletted or Red Dogged, you can Chuck-a-Luck at the buffet until you're a Sic-Bo! Look for more exciting details next month on how to win great prizes all during the night.
We would also like to remind our local businesses, even our international businesses that the profile of our Las Vegas Night for Charity revelers is a perfect match to your target markets and you can get some great exposure by donating a gift for prizes and drawings to be given away this night. We remind you all that this is a charity event and all proceeds go to support DIF programs.
Las Vegas Night for Charity is always a memorable evening of camaraderie, meeting new friends, enjoying the air conditioning in July, and experiencing new products and services from our local vendors, in addition to the thrill of casino games and bidding on many valuable prizes!
Measures include two-year compensation plan for fishermen, expanded gill net-free zone
With the small and rarely seen vaquita porpoise verging on extinction, Mexico's Federal Government is launching an unprecedented effort to save the species - through measures that include a dramatically expanded ban on gill net fishing in the Upper Gulf of California over the next two years.
President Enrique Peña Nieto on Thursday traveled to San Felipe, Baja California fishing port to formally launch the new plan to save this small sea mammal endemic to the region. With fewer than 100 vaquita now believed alive, scientists say the species is likely to disappear unless drastic measures are taken immediately.
According to Armando Jaramillo, a marine biologist with Mexico's National Institute of Ecology and Climate Change, the numbers have gone from 567 in an initial survey in 1997 to fewer than 100 today and the announced extinction of the freshwater baiji dolphin from China's Yangtze River in 2006 has added urgency to conservationists' calls.
The vaquita "is a species emblematic of Mexico," said Omar Vidal, director of the World Wildlife Fund in Mexico. "It's like the panda for China, not more, not less."Efforts to save the vaquita have involved much cross-border collaboration, and present at Thursday's event was Anthony Wayne, the U.S. ambassador to Mexico, as well as representatives of the U.S. Marine Mammal Commission and the U.S. Department of Commerce's Southwest Fisheries Science Center in La Jolla.
The threat to the vaquita "is a symptom of a broken system," said Alejandro Robles, chairman of the Mexican environmental group Noroeste Sustentable. "The Upper Gulf has tremendously valuable resources. It has been the historical disorganization of the fishing sector that has created what we have today."
Cooperation from the fishing community will be key to saving the vaquita, Robles and other conservationists say. But in recent years, their efforts have met with stiff resistance from local fishermen, many of whom see their livelihood threatened by the gill net ban and are skeptical of the vaquita's existence.
"There are fishermen who have lived their entire lives without seeing this animal," said Carlos Avila, a 39-year-old fisherman and San Felipe native. "If we haven't seen it, how are we going to preserve it?"
Peña Nieto's announcement follows a scientific report last year by the International Committee for the Recovery of the Vaquita, a group of experts appointed by the Mexican government. The report identified as the main threat to the vaquita the drift gill nets favored by Avila and hundreds of other small fishermen in the region who make their living through their catch of shrimp and fish. The vaquita become entangled in the nets and drown.
The report listed another growing threat in recent years: lucrative illegal fisheries in the Upper Gulf for another endangered species, the giant totoaba fish. Tototaba are highly prized in China, where they are believed to have medicinal properties, and can command more than $10,000 per kilo, according to Mexican officials.
Thursday's ceremony carried a message of increased federal enforcement in the region, which included a heavy presence of Mexican naval personnel and the presentation of Defender-class boats capable of traveling close to 70 miles per hour.
"Enforcement is absolutely critical," said Barbara Taylor, a conservation biologist with the Southwest Fisheries science center. "It is going to be the critical thing on whether you save the species or not."
The new measures are not the first by Mexico to preserve the vaquita, but they go further than previous efforts. These include the prohibition of gill net fishing over an area of close to 1,1,50 square miles - about six times the size of a vaquita refuge declared in 2005 where all fishing continues to be banned. The expanded zone covers the entire area where vaquita have been sighted.
Another step involves the two-year compensation program - payments totaling close to $36 million annually - for fishermen who are forced to give up their gill nets and long hooks, as well as others in the local production chain.
Mexico's federal government calculates that the compensation program for fishermen in San Felipe and another coastal community, the Golfo de Santa Clara, involves 806 small boats, or pangas, with 1,354 fishing permits (most have two permits). For the next two years, fishermen would receive about 7,000 pesos, or about $460 per month to stay away from their gill nets and long hooks.
"I have never seen the Mexican government put so much money into one species," said Vidal of the World Wildlife Fund. Sunshine Rodriguez, who heads the largest fishing federation in San Felipe, was once a staunch opponent of the gill net fishing ban. But he has endorsed the government's latest plan. "We don't want to kill the oceans either," he said. "We are certain that if there is another way of fishing and they come up with it, we're going to use it."
Still, Rodriguez and other fishermen have been resistant to alternative fishing methods being championed by the Mexican government and the conservation community, a light trawl known as a chango ecologico that does not threaten the vaquita, saying that it uses more gasoline and brings in a smaller catch than the gill nets.
Robles of Noroeste Sustentable said the next two years will buy time for the region, but "to me the big question is what happens after two years; how do we define sustainability in the Upper Gulf in the context of the vaquita and the totoaba, and also the needs of the community."
Rocky Point Medical Clinics - Making a Difference Where It's Needed
Rocky Point has so many good-hearted, generous people. So many who selflessly give so much to those in need. So many who remain mostly anonymous and are just fine with that fact. In my 5 years with the Sonoran Resorts, I have had the privilege of meeting a great number of such caring souls and I can honestly say that these people really do reinforce my belief in the overall good of humanity. A few days ago, I was honored to meet two more generally unknown super-heroes of our little city by the sea.
Doctor George Stavros and his wife, Registered Nurse Susie, stopped by my office for an informal chat. When they arrived, I saw two gentle, friendly people. By the time they left, I had gained the utmost respect for two people driven with the desire to help others. Two people who truly care about others and who have spent a great deal of their time, their money, and their expertise helping those in this world who are less fortunate than themselves. Prior to meeting them, I had no idea of the tremendous efforts being made by them nor about the countless people who they have helped. The unsolicited love and attention perpetrated by this couple and those people who have aligned themselves with their efforts is truly impressive.
Doctor George, as he's known by his patients, previously held down a general medicine practice in Mesa for some 50 years while volunteering his time to the church and to those addicted to drugs and alcohol. He and Susie have also been active in the Young Life program and were actually involved with the current Young Life directors, Dottie and George Homeyer, in getting the program off the ground right here in Rocky Point many years ago. Doctor George often donated his time and expertise as the "camp doctor" during the annual camping retreats, always helping young people cope with home life problems, addictions, and delinquency while at the same time building faith and character at a very impressionable time in the youngster's lives.
When visiting their home in Rocky Point over the past 17 years, the couple began offering medical services for those who could not afford them - first once a year, then twice, then 4 times. Finally, about three years ago, they moved here full-time and now, between the dynamic couple, their friends, and many other volunteers, they offer a free clinic to the less fortunate at least once a month, and usually 3 or 4 times per month. Over the years, friends, colleagues, and other generous volunteers have joined forces with the couple, allowing them to expand their areas of service. At this time, their patients are offered hearing, dental, necessary operations, and even prosthetic limbs.
Today their small operation is growing. Puerto Peñasco's current mayor Prof. Gerardo Figueroa has donated two acres in Colonia San Rafael where the beginnings of a clinic and dental office are can be seen. For now, they are just shells, but they have already been named Palabras de Esperanza (Words of Hope) and they are already being used regularly for the clinics. Of course, the goal is to have these buildings completed, stocked, and in full-service mode as soon as possible. They also continue to work out of the local Family of God church, located at the roundabout on the road towards Sandy Beach. This partnership began from the association of the Living Streams Church in Phoenix. Usually when they have a "clinic" at the church, they also have one somewhere in one of the barrios, working out of a donated 5th wheel trailer (they are actually hoping someone will donate a motorhome so they can expand again) so that they can set up the temporary aid stations where they are needed most. If there is no electricity in the area, they bring generators. If there is no water, they bring their own. During a normal open clinic session, they can expect to treat between 100 and 300 patients. As Doctor George put it, "We treat them, feed them, and send them on their way, happier and healthier."
Generosity attracts company George and Susie tell me that on average, one of their clinics will have at least 4 additional volunteer Doctors, a volunteer Dentist, and even up to 15 volunteer translators and pre-med students from the University of Arizona. The Stavros' and other volunteers provide their own medicines, equipment, and supplies as well. According to Doctor Stavros, each time they set up the clinic, they need to come up with at least $1,000, not including dental, prosthetics and additional services. The generosity and dedication by all involved in this project is nothing short of amazing.
Oh, remember when I said that this generous couple was mostly anonymous? Well, maybe I should have mentioned that they are not invisible to everyone. Surely, those who they have helped will always remember them with gratitude. Many peers and other volunteer organizations are also very much aware of the good work that they do. Maybe I should have mentioned that Sonoran Governor Padres presented them with the Humanitarian Award at the Sonora/Arizona Conference in Phoenix 2 years ago. And, maybe I should have mentioned that past President of Mexico, Vicente Fox, recognized their work and personally thanked them for helping the people of his country. Maybe it was just me who had so recently learned of their good deeds after all.
This type of kindness certainly does not come for free. The couple have set up a 501C-3 charity organization so you can deduct any donations on your US tax returns. Please visit their website at: www.rockypointmedicalclinics.com and take a look at some of the great work that they have done. You can also donate through the site. Donations can be one time or you can sign up for an ongoing donation to help them continue with their great service to Rocky Point.
In parting, I asked them if they ever find time for hobbies or to spend any time doing something besides running their charity events. Doctor George's reply was almost as surprising as the rest of this story. It seems that when he was practicing medicine in Phoenix, he did a lot of medical physicals for pilots. He admits that he became somewhat obsessed with airplanes and still is to this day. He now flies his own ultra-light aircraft around Puerto Peñasco. So, next time you see a yellow ultra-light airplane buzzing the beaches in a little airplane, it just might be the good doctor - be sure and give him a wave and a big thumbs up. Hats off to you both!
Check out the very short video below to watch little "Miguelito" take his very first steps on his new prosthetic leg, courtesy of Rocky Point Medical Clinics:
Rocky Point Medical Clinics
Young Life Puerto Peñasco Fundraiser Fun
Out There In the World of Kids
Young Life didn't start with a program. It started with adults concerned enough about kids to go to them, on their turf and in their culture, building bridges of authentic friendship. These relationships don't happen overnight - they take time, patience, trust and consistency.
Everyone is welcome in Young Life! The programs are custom made for kids throughout their adolescent years. Young Life is the name of the organization and is also the term used for the program with high school students. The middle school program is called WyldLife. The initiative for college and university students is called Young Life College.
Since 1941, Young Life has been making a difference in the lives of teenagers around the world. Young Life is in more than 70 countries around the world, offering hope with spiritual values to millions of teens each year regardless of ability, race, religious tradition, or culture. Puerto Peñasco is privileged to have the first YL Club in all of Mexico. The YL Club started with the efforts of some Arizona parents in 2010. They looked around the town and realized there were not many activities for the local teens, and decided to make a difference.
Here is a short message about the local Young Life from Dottie Homeyer:
Last year my cousin, Rick, and I celebrated our birthdays together. In lieu of a gift, we asked if guests would make a donation to Young Life. These donations were the seed money that we needed to buy food, print posters, etc. to advertise the Cinco de Mayo fundraiser. Thank you for making it possible because of your generosity in funding this event 75 youth from Puerto Penasco had the opportunity to experience the most wonderful week of their entire lives. Our goal this year is to be able to send 150 kids to camp, of which we need to raise $20,000.00. We need your help to make this camp experience possible for every kid our Young Life leaders and volunteers are in contact with.
These camps build relationships that truly change lives. There are many stories to share with you from summer camp, but the following really touched my heart. Here are three stories, told from our Puerto Penasco director, from this past summer camp.
L.G. is a 17 year old teen without a father, and he suffers from epilepsy. One night at camp, I was able to share the love of Jesus Christ with him. L.G. asked me if Jesus loved him and would forgive him for being "angry" with his mother and hitting her. I told him, of course, Jesus loves you and died on a cross to forgive you of all your sins! In a desperate way, he told me he wanted to know Jesus in a deeper way. We then embraced and began to pray. Later, I was overjoyed to see him hugging his mother and asking her for forgiveness.
Another young man J.M. is a 16 year old who lives in a dysfunctional family. Although he is healthy, he struggles with drugs, anger, and at first had no desire to know Jesus. At the beginning of camp he did not want to be around anyone, nor did he join in camp games. However, I did notice that he attended every small group discussion. Later, he confessed that he was angry with God, but now could see the love of Jesus. Since returning from camp, he hasn't missed a Young Life club, is going to church, and attends many small group Bible Studies. He has no desire to do drugs again. What a joy it has been to see all the wonderful things happening in his life.
Meet M.H. a 16 year old girl who also comes from a broken family. She struggles with a stepfather who sexually abuses her. Worst yet, her mother knows of this abuse but refuses to do anything about it for fear her husband will leave her. After returning from camp M.H. lived with us, because she did not want to return to the same situation. Her parents decided to get counseling, and are attending church as a family. She has returned home. Please pray for this beautiful girl and that God's purpose for her life will be totally fulfilled.
Now you see why we have a heart to support Young Life! Most families here in Puerto Penasco can not afford to give their teenagers this experience. Our goal is to raise $15,000.00, which will send 125 area students to YL camp this summer. Anything that you can do to help would be greatly appreciated.
Tiburones Baseball 2015 is in Full Swing!
Baseball season is in full swing again and if you like baseball, you really need to attend a Tiburones game at the baseball stadium on the East side of Benito Juarez near the Burger King. If you have never been to one of the games, you won't be disappointed if you give it a try. Ticket prices are very low (I think about $50 Pesos - $3.50) and it's a ton of fun. Buckets of iced beer, hot dogs, popcorn, souvenirs, and other more regional treats are cheap and plentiful.
But, don't let the cheap prices, free flowing beer, and festive atmosphere fool you. The Tiburones are a serious team and these are serious games. The action is real and the excitement is contagious.
Games start at 7:30 p.m. except for Sundays, when they start at 6:30 p.m. The season is already in full swing and the next home game series starts today (May 1st) with our Puerto Peñasco Tiburones hosting the Mexicali Centinelas. So, pack up your family, friends, and let's head on out to the ballpark.
Tequila, Mezcal and Pulque
Tequila is the most famous Mexican drink, but all three of these beverages are consumed in Mexico. They are all made from the agave plant, known as
maguey in Mexico.
Agave or Maguey
Agave, sometimes called "Century Plant" in English, is common throughout Mexico and the Southwest United States. Its uses are incredibly varied: it has been used for its fiber, for food, and in ancient times the thorns were used as needles and for blood-letting ceremonies.
In recent times, the sap, called
aguamiel has been converted into agave nectar, a natural sweetener with a low glycemic index. However, its most common use throughout time has been to make alcoholic beverages.
Tequila and Mezcal
Mezcal can be made from a few different varieties of agave, though most mezcals on the market are made with
Agave espadin. In the process for making mezcal, the heart of the agave plant, called the
piña, is roasted, crushed, fermented and then distilled.
A popular saying in Mexico is:
Para todo mal, mezcal Para todo bien tambien, which roughly translated means: For all hardships, mezcal and for all good fortune as well, promoting the notion that mezcal is appropriate for any occasion.
Mezcal is still made in the traditional way in many areas of Mexico and is exported, though no mezcal is as well known as
Mezcal de tequila
.
Tequila is a spirit that is made exclusively from a specific agave plant, the blue agave or
Agave Tequilana Weber. It is only produced in the region of western Mexico around the town of Santiago de Tequila, Jalisco, about 40 miles (65 km) northwest of Guadalajara.
Tequila has become a national symbol of Mexico, and although it may have earned its popularity among the spring-breaker crowd and those looking to get drunk fast, premium mezcals and tequilas also appeal to those with more discriminating tastes. The highest quality tequilas have
100% agave
printed on the label - this means that no other sugars have been added.
Visiting Tequila, Jalisco
A visit to Tequila will allow you to learn about tequila's history and production. Tours are offered by several leading distilleries. A popular way to get to Tequila is by taking the Tequila Express train from Guadalajara. The train ride lasts about two hours, traveling through stunning desert landscape. Refreshments are served on board and entertainment is provided by a mariachi band.
How to Drink Tequila and Mezcal
Although drinking tequila shots is very popular, and there is some debate about the "correct" way to shoot it (salt or lime first?), tequila connoisseurs say that it is a complete waste to shoot a fine tequila or mezcal, and they recommend that it be sipped, either alone or with
sangrita, a mixture of tomato, orange juice and lime juice, spiced with chili powder.
Pulque
Pulque ("pool-kay"), called
octli in Nahuatl, the Aztec language, is made from the sap of the agave plant. To extract the sap, a cavity is cut into the heart of an 8 to 12 year-old plant. The sap is then extracted with a fat wooden tube placed in the heart of the plant. The sap is called
aguamiel (literally honey water), or agave nectar, because it is very sweet. The nectar is then fermented to make pulque. The resulting liquid is milky and slightly sour tasting.
Sometimes fruit or nuts are added to change the flavor. Pulque's alcohol content, dependent on the degree of fermentation, ranges from 2 to 8%. This was the alcoholic drink of ancient Mexicans as they did not have the distillation process. In ancient times its consumption was restricted and only priests, nobles and the elderly were allowed to drink it. In colonial times pulque was widely consumed and became an important source of revenue for the government. Haciendas producing pulque were an important part of the colonial economy, and remained so during the first century of Mexico's independence.
There are establishments called
pulquerias where this drink is served. In the past there was a whole popular culture that grew up around
pulquerias, which were almost exclusively frequented by men. However, in present times the number of these establishments has diminished considerably.The low alcohol content and complex fermentation of pulque limits its distribution, however pulque is still consumed today - it is sometimes served at fiestas or sold in markets, and in neighborhood
pulquerias.
Little David Has Down's Syndrome and a Heart Issue That Will Surely Touch Yours
Mark Olszewski and Frank Bercovich have been working for years with residents in Rocky Point who have special needs of all kinds. They founded the wheelchair basketball team, The Rolling Rockies; they organized a Paralympics team made up of teen agers who take advantage of their abilities in the midst of their disabilities.
Frank, a Polio victim himself, literally goes door to door locating families in need of wheelchairs, walkers, crutches and other equipment to make their lives a little easier.
It was only recently, however, that these two friends became aware of the sad circumstances of little David, an 18 month old child with Down's Syndrome as well as a serious heart condition that requires constant medication and an upcoming surgery that can only take place in Guadalajara. This situation became even more dire when his hard working parents sold the last of their inventory in the little neighborhood grocery store they own, which is actually the front of their small home in the San Rafael barrio. This was their only means of keeping little David in medicine. Now, they have no more items to sell off.
"We have these tirelessly determined parents who have exhausted every means for taking care of their little son", informs Mark. Their insurance, which covered most of the medical trips, was on the verge of expiring-that is until Mark and Frank spent some time with this small child who has already broken the "Cuteness" meter and, as Mark puts it, "Pulled every string in my heart, for sure."
Through his strong Facebook following, Mark was able to raise enough money to renew the insurance for David, an incredible relief for his parents. The issue of paying for medications was still looming so Mark called on Dr. George and Susie Stavros to meet David and his parents. This couple have been conducting free medical clinics for many years right here in Rocky Point and, sure enough, they opted in to supply David with the proper medication and are assisting in other areas as well.
This frees up Mark's ongoing fund raising efforts to provide transportation to the various hospitals and to assist them in restocking their little store so they can continue being self sufficient. Mark says, "I'm willing to do whatever it takes to help this family because they are not looking for a hand out; they're just looking for a helping hand."
When Mark sets his goals in this manner, his friends from all over several countries are ready to jump in, too. For a $10 dollar donation Mark will offer you a chance to win two VIP passes to the Roger Clyne 2015 Circus Mexicus Music Festival, a donation from friends and frequent visitors, Scott and Angela Scriver. The prize also includes a two night stay at one of the luxury Sonoran beachfront resort condominiums, donated without hesitation by Jim Ringquist, Director of Sales and Marketing. For a donation of just $10 dollars you will receive one entry into the drawing for this awesome prize worth over $600 dollars. If you donate $25 dollars, Mark will give you three entries into the drawing. As with all fundraising efforts by Mark and Barb Olszewski, 100% of money collected goes directly to the project. Mark and Frank affectionately refer to this effort as "Rocking Hearts for David!"
You can call or email him for more details, or look up his Facebook page. Here's the contact information: US Phone number (Vonage) is 602-324-9529; From Mexico: 638-383-4963; Email: [email protected]. Facebook is www.facebook.com/twopesos. Mark and Barb Olszewski are a team. If you don't know them, you're in for a real treat!
Beyond The Maquiladora: A Look At Mexico's Startup Scene
It doesn't take an advanced finance degree to understand why Mexico is projected-by Goldman Sachs, among others-to represent the world's fifth largest economy by 2050.
The most populous Spanish-speaking country in the world, Mexico has booming ports on both oceans, abundant natural resources, a longstanding, well-developed industrial sector, close business ties to the United States, and easy access to the burgeoning US Latino population (with their soon-to-be $1.5 trillion in buying power).
But one thing that tends to get lost in this predictive calculus is that, even after just a few years of gestation, Mexico already boasts one of the more dynamic startup scenes in Latin America.
If Mexico is indeed moving beyond the maquiladora manufacturers and their free trade zones in the process of building the world's next great economy, technology and innovation will be a part of the foundation of that economy.
Startup Origin Story
In 2006, some 50 individuals were selected by TechBA, an international business development program birthed out of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), to make the 2,000-mile trip from Mexico to Silicon Valley and learn about startup entrepreneurship at its global proving grounds.
The result of this early cultural interchange was the Super Happy Dev House movement in Mexico City, which, despite the silly name, helped lay the groundwork for almost a decade of precipitous domestic growth in Mexico.
Following 2008's Mexico Web 2.0 conference and the emergence of the new "Tequila Valley" movement, two of the first TechBA participants, Santiago Zavala and Cesar Salazar, who started the Super Happy Dev House, partnered with Silicon Valley entrepreneur David Weekly to found the Mexican.VC accelerator. It was an early attempt to address the nascent startup scene's lack of funding.
Mexican.VC was eventually acquired by 500 Startups in 2012, and remains a fixture in country's startup scene to this day. In the meantime, the fund played an important role, alongside the venture capital firm Alta Ventures in financing Mexico's first batch of serious startups.
Venture capital didn't reach a meaningful threshold in Mexico until 2009, when the Mexican Association of Venture Capital and Private Equity (MEXCAP) held its first conference in Mexico City. Soon after, Hernan Fernandez, widely considered the most influential angel investor in Mexico, founded Angel Ventures, which established a network not just of angel investors but also traditional businessmen willing to contribute capital to innovation projects as limited partners.
The creation of the independent government policy center, the National Institute of Entrepreneurship (INADEM), in 2013, signaled the emergence of a self-sustaining-if still evolving-startup ecosystem.
Mexico City: The Capital
With over 22 million people and counting, Mexico City is one of the largest cities, not simply in Mexico, but the entire world. It's a global financial center, cosmopolitan cultural mecca, and an important political capital. That it is also the focal point of Mexican entrepreneurship is only to be expected.
For Cesar Salazar, the city's dominance extends beyond even Mexico's expansive national territory. "Mexico City is by far the most active and rapidly growing startup hub in the Spanish-speaking world," the 500 Startups partner told me.
Salazar oversees investments in over 25 companies that have raised over $200K in funding or that have revenues in the hundreds of thousands, and he estimates that nationally, 100 or more startups have emerged to meet this standard in the past four years alone. While the Mexican government did not respond to requests for exact national or local figures, Salazar agrees with other leaders that Mexico City sees the large bulk of those investments.
A well-recognized venture capitalist with a track-record that stretches across the United States, Latin America and Europe, Salazar brings valuable perspective to the Mexican startup culture. Since 2011, when he co-founded Mexican.VC, he's watched the local landscape in the capital go from parched and disjointed to a flourishing young ecosystem as diverse and sprawling as the city itself, "a community driven effort that shows the world the power of citizen interconnectedness in creating a better future." more...
The three sisters aged 10, 13 and 16 released an EP of original music last week
A new band from Monterrey whose videos have gone viral on YouTube has signed with a record company and released their first recording. And the oldest player is 16.
The Warning - made up of three sisters - even found a fan in Kirk Hammett, lead guitarist of the heavy-metal band Metallica, who tweeted that The Warning's 13-year-old drummer Paulina "kicks maximum ass."
But according to Kate Beaudoin, writing on Mic.com, Hammett didn't quite get it right: "all three kick maximum ass."
Paulina's older sister, Daniela, plays lead guitar and sings. Her younger sister, Alejandra is 10, and plays bass. And according to YouTube comments, they rock.
Their YouTube cover of the Metallica song Enter Sandman has had nearly 6.2 million views, generated nearly 35,000 likes and earned 4,500 comments. That and other videos were uploaded for family and friends and were never expected to go viral.
The next break came when their mother invited the owner of a Monterrey-based recording studio to attend a show by the band at a local university.
"I attended the show, sat on the front row and got chills the entire time," said Victoria Morales-Kuhne of Victoria Records. "Their original music was incredible, everything I could ever hope for and more . . . I knew this was one of those once-in-a-lifetime moments when you're witnessing music history and music greatness, and if you're lucky in this industry, you run into one artist like The Warning once in your lifetime."
Two weeks later the band signed with Victoria Records and an EP of original music, Escape the Mind, followed last Tuesday.
All three sisters began taking music lessons early, and all started on the piano. Now they want to continue their studies by attending the Berklee College of Music in Boston.
Supporters launched an appeal on gofundme.com and have raised over US $12,000 so far to pay for tuition, visas and further music lessons.
Enter Sandman - METALLICA Cover - The Warning
Fishing for Giant Humboldt Squid in the Sea of Cortez
The giant Humboldt squid, Dosidicus gigas, is a tough and tenacious beast that should never be confused with those market-sized squid that show up in the frozen section of your favorite Bait & Tackle store. While not quite the size of the giant squid depicted by Jules Verne, this species can reach a length of over six feet. Known for its aggressive, predatory nature, the Humboldt squid sports incredibly powerful tentacles and possesses excellent underwater vision; not to mention, a razor-sharp beak that can easily tear through the flesh of its prey ...or that of an unsuspecting angler.
Today, one thing is certain; there are far more giant Humboldt squid along both sides of the Sea of Cortez than ever before in recorded history. Each year, hundreds of Mexican commercial fishermen work in rough conditions on small pangas to fish for these big squid. And it's no easy task, since the catch is very heavy and each squid must be caught on a hand line. The entire economy of many small fishing poblados, like Santa Rosalia, on the Sea of Cortez, depend upon these squid for a livelihood, with fishing and packing operations providing the majority of local jobs.
And now, recreational anglers in Southern California, Baja, and Mexican mainland communities have discovered the great sport involved in catching this monster-like creature. Fishing for Humboldt squid is best done during the dark of night using multiple, pre-mounted 300 to 500-watt halogen lamps, which generally draws the big squid toward the boat. After they appear, steadily chumming using chunks of mackerel or squid will usually keep them hanging around. Although they can sometimes be caught with bait or on conventional fishing lures, special equipment is usually needed for larger Humboldt squid to get the job done right.
It is recommended to use a 3 to 6 foot length of multi-strand, 150+ pound test wire leader with a specially designed squid jig attached to the terminal end of the rig. These lures have numerous pin-like prongs running up and down the body, which ensnare the tentacles of the giant squid as soon as they wrap around the artificial bait. Nothing likes being 'hooked', and the giant Humboldt squid is no exception ...but it has a lot more weight to throw around than most of the fish that you might commonly catch. It also possesses a large sack of ink that should be allowed to discharge boat-side prior to gaffing the squid and hoisting it over the rail. Once it hits the deck, cut away and discard its head and tentacles and then place the body on ice to maintain its quality.
Please, however, observe this important word of caution; You should avoid all contact with the large beak at the center of the tentacles. Mangled or severed fingers are often the steep price that is paid by those who fail to do so!
Anglers who successfully fish for Humboldt squid are usually happily rewarded with several pounds of gourmet quality calamari steak for the dinner table after their trip is over. For those who find themselves in this delightful situation, allow me to offer the following suggestion; do not cook it too long. As with most delicate seafood, overcooking will result in it becoming tough and rubbery.
Personally, I have only caught one in my time here and the people that I was fishing with cut it up to use as bait. They told me that it makes better bait than dinner, but I also know that others really like them if they are cooked properly. There are many ways to prepare them and you can see a couple ideas next.
Cooking the Monster Giant Squid Made Easy!
Squid Preparation: These things are tough if not prepped right. Soak the slabs of giant squid in milk for a couple of hours (remove the membranes from both sides first) Then you should slice the slabs into strips that are about 3" long and 1/2" wide. You should end up with pieces about the size of your typically bubblegum strip. Then using a tenderizing mallet, each piece is pounded on both sides until it's about 1/4" thick. Now your pieces will be closer to an inch wide and four inches long.
Here are some ideas for cooking:
Seasoning Mix:
1 1/2 cups flour
4-5 tablespoons of Cajun Spice Mix
Go ahead and blend the seasoning mix ingredients together in a one gallon zip lock bag. Add squid to the bag a handful at a time, turn both sides to coat thoroughly. Shake off excess and transfer to a baking sheet.
In a deep-fryer or large heavy pot, heat 3-4 cups of canola or vegetable oil to 360 degrees.
Fry the squid for 2-3 minutes, until golden brown. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to transfer to paper towels and drain. Salt to taste and serve immediately with and lime wedges and Lemon Aioli.
Lemon Aioli (makes 1 cup)
Grated zest from 2 lemons
Juice from 2 lemons
4 cloves minced garlic
1 egg yolk
1/4 tablespoon white pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 slice white bread, crust removed, torn into pieces
Using a hand blender or food processor, puree the ingredients listed above into a smooth paste. With the machine running, slowly drizzle in 1 cup of olive oil.
If the aioli appears too thick add a bit of ice water to adjust consistency. Store in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
After many days of experimenting with how to cook the squid this seems to be the secret.
First you must be sure to remove the membrane on both the inside and the one under the purple skin on the outside cutting off about an 1/8" on both sides - very important.
Second soak the steaks in milk or a mixture of 1/4 cup vinegar and 2 cups of water for about 10 minutes.
Next pound the steaks with a meat tenderizer.
Drop the steaks into a pan of boiling water for one minute; to get ride of the excess water trapped in the meat.
Using an egg wash (one egg beaten) dip the steaks and coat both sides. Next coat the steaks with bread crumbs or cracker crumbs; even use crushed fried pork rinds for a low carb diet. The crumb mixture can be seasoned with plain pepper or five spice powder or Cajun seasoning or anything you enjoy. You can also try skipping the coatings and just pan fry the steaks that have been coated with a seasoning.
Pan fry the coated steaks in half olive oil and half butter about a table spoon of each for 3 minutes each side.
Wonderful, Ridiculous, Head-Scratchingly Pointy Mexican Boots Are Now A Designer Item
In 2011, KPBS reporter Angela Carone wrote about a fashion trend that started in a rural town in Mexico, had swept parts of Texas, and was leaving her speechless: men wearing ridiculously pointy boots with a wicked upward curl - the tip of some pairs reaching as high as one's waist. "These Mexican pointy boots are so bizarre," she wrote, "I fully expect to see them before year's end on the runways of Paris."
Indeed, the boots surfaced in Paris in 2014 at the Comme Des Garcons fashion show for its Spring/Summer 2015 collection. A pair of black boots with 21-inch toe-length is now selling online for a cool $515, according to the Latino-centric culture blog Remezcla.
The boots first appeared in the rural town of Matehuala, San Luis Potosi, Mexico. As
Vice explains in a short documentary, things started innocently enough, with people simply altering their boots to make them pointier. Then people from neighboring towns started to compete on pointiness. "Then people started making them pointier and pointer, until it got out of control," says one young man who fashions pointy boots out of water hoses.
The trend coincided with the rise of
tribal (pronounced tree-BAL) music, which is a mix of pre-Hispanic sounds, cumbia rhythms and techno. Residents of Matehuala started wearing the boots in
tribal dancing competitions at clubs, rodeos, and
quinceañeras.
The boots eventually made their way to Hispanic neighborhoods in Texas. Even though the boots originated in Matehuala, Erick Rincon, a DJ who skyrocketed the boots' popularity when he featured them in a music video that's been viewed more than 50 million times on YouTube, told V
ice
they're actually more popular in Texas.
The trend arguably jumped the shark when the French DJ David Guetta
featured them in a video in which a pair of tattooed gangsters buy a pair. The stereotype-fueled video follows a
tribal dance crew and culminates in a scene at a rodeo where fireworks shoot out of a pair of boots. But one can still find memes dedicated to the phenomenon, including a T-shirt in which Woody from
Toy Story rocks a pair of pointy boots.
The boots are still beloved by tribal fans, and tribal dance crews take a "haters gonna hate" attitude. "It's all about how you feel inside," says one man at the end of the documentary, wearing boots that curl into a little ball like an elf boot.
Overall, the trend is yet another example of how fluid music culture can be between Mexico and the U.S., like when emo music, which has its roots in D.C., became incredibly popular in Mexico, or why narcocorridos, ballads about drug lords and trafficking, are popular on both sides of the border.
Who knows if these incredibly impractical boots will make it to the U.S. mainstream in the way that "chola culture" was appropriated by Rihanna and Selena Gomez. But then again, these boots have already made it across the pond.
This beautiful oceanfront condo is priced to sell. Set a little away from the pool, it offers fantastic views with a bit more privacy because of not being right above the activity. You can move right in as this condo is very nicely furnished and it is not in the rental pool. This one will sell soon so please do yourself a favor and come take a look.
Call Today: 602-476-7511
Sonoran Sky 909 3 Bed 3 Bath Premium Condo $499,900
Fabulous custom three bedroom condo in the luxurious Sonoran Sky Resort. This one is a must see for anyone looking to own the best of the best in oceanfront condos in Puerto Penasco. Three bedrooms, three bathrooms, professionally furnished and turn key ready to go. This can be a private getaway for you and your family, or you can place it into the rental pool and realize a nice income while you're not using it. Contact one of our sales staff today to set up a time to view this great condo. Priced right to sell quickly so don't wait too long. You can even get into this condo by assuming great developer financing at only 5.9%. Lots of great things are going on in Rocky Point and now is the time to get into this beauty before prices go up.
This beautiful condo really has some of the best views on Sandy Beach. Your private terrace overlooks the Sea of Cortez and you will have a front and center view of the Old Port lights every night. This condo is in perfect condition, nicely furnished and ready to go. Come and take a look for yourself. Call today.
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Unique 5 Bedroom Penthouse with huge patio area, jacuzzi, outdoor gas grill and built in outdoor bar. Free 15X30 Garage (SS12) for boat, ATV´s and water toys. This is a special home that needs to be seen to appreciate its value at only $799K!!
Come check it out for yourself. You'll be glad that you did.
Great price on this beautiful 2 bedroom at the Sun. Views all the way down the beach and to the new Home Port. In the future, you can watch the cruise ships coming and going from your own private beachfront paradise. This condo is priced to sell and it is very nicely furnished and ready to go. Brand new stainless appliances. Come see it today.
This unit is very nicely furnished and has some of the best views in town. Enjoy the tremendous views of Old Port and the Sea of Cortez from your large private terrace. This condo is totally turn key and the only thing missing is you. Terms available with just 20% down and 5.9% Interest.
Not many of these great one bedrooms left and this one is a beauty. Fabulous views and a great price. This would make a great rental or keep it for yourself. Either way, you can't go wrong here. Beautifully furnished and ready to go, this condo can't be beat. Excellent rental history and lots of potential for even more. You really need to come and see this one before it's gone.
Call Today: 602-476-7511
Sonoran Sky 302
Premium 3Bed/3Bath $469,900
Link to Listing - Coming Soon
BRAND NEW LISTING - PHOTOS COMING SOON
This is a fabulous premium 3 bedroom, 3 bath condo at the luxurious Sonoran Sky Resort. Spectacular Oceanfront Views. This condo comes impeccably furnished like a model and it has never been in the rental pool. It is the lowest priced 3 bedroom at the Sky by far. This one won't last long so come and check it out right away!
This is a great price on a fantastic condo at the Sea. The views from this condo are nothing short of spectacular. Enjoy the Sunsets and the future cruise ships from the comfort of your private oceanfront terrace. Nicely furnished and ready to go. Come and see this one today before it's too late.
This condo has everything and it shows great! The oceanfront views are spectacular and it is very nicely furnished. Great price on a super nice one bedroom condo at the Sonoran Spa.
Luxury one bedroom condo at the Sonoran Spa at a bargain price. Recently reduced and it has gotten a lot of attention since then. It is the lowest priced one bedroom at any of the Sonoran Resorts and it won't last long. Sold fully furnished and ready to go. Don't let this one pass you by. Call today.
Call Today: 602-476-7511
Sonoran Sun W801 3 Bedroom End Unit $489,900 Terms Available
This is the perfect deal that you have been waiting for. Three Bedroom, Wrap Around Terrace, Great Terms, Great Rentals. You really need to take a look at this beautiful condo. The wrap around terrace gives you the most unbelievable views in town and the price/terms make it a great deal. This condo rents VERY well.
Very Nice 2 Bedroom condo at the Sonoran Spa Resort. This is one of the few remaining great deals at the Spa. Oceanfront views, palm trees, Old Port lights at night. Come and take a look at this one. Owner may consider financing with large down payment.
Owning a 25% share of this condo can be the solution that you have been looking for. Enjoy ownership and 13 weeks for a fraction of the price of buying a full ownership unit. This condo is very nicely furnished, turnkey ready to go and has some of the best views on Sandy Beach. West side location allows views of old port lights at night as well. The price is right so come and buy this one before someone beats you to it.
Great price on a 1 bedroom at the Sonoran Sky Resort. This one is unfurnished and waiting for your creative design. Seller financing is available with 25% down. Great Buy!
Beautiful 2 bedroom condo at the Sonoran Spa overlooking the pools and the beach. Great condo, fully furnished and ready for you to move in. Not many at this price left for sale. Very good Owner Financing with just 20% down. Take a look!
Call Today: 602-476-7511
Sonoran Sun W207 2 BR West Building $279,900 Great Terms
This is a great condo on the 2nd floor at the Sonoran Sun Resort. Financing is the key to this beauty. Just 20% down and you can take 20 years to pay it of at just 5.9%. Or, if you want to pay cash, take 10% off the listed price. This one is sold unfurnished with fresh paint, ready for your special touches. Great price. Great views. Great terms. You can't lose on this one. Take a look!
Luxury 3 Bedroom end unit condo at the Sonoran Sea. This is an immaculate condo and a great rental income property. The views from the terrace are nothing short of breathtaking. Make this condo yours.
Beautiful Oceanfront 2 bedroom at the Sonoran Sun. Views, views, and views. Priced right and just 20% down and enjoy a 5.9% loan. Come check this one out today. This one won't last.
This 3 Bedroom 3 Bath Premium condo must be seen to be appreciated. Great price and ready to move in and enjoy This one is a Must See beauty with ocean front views beyond belief. Just 20% down and your in.
This is the Deluxe 3 bedroom condo with the extra square footage. Sellers have just reduced the price by $50K making it the lowest priced 3 bedroom at the Sea now and for a long time. Nicely furnished, turn key - ready to go, and excellent rental history make this a deal that's hard to pass up. You need to see this one to appreciate it.
This is one of those condos that absolutely has to be seen in person to be truly appreciated. Premium end unit with wraparound terrace and views forever. You can see all the way from Old Port to the new Home Port from the comfort of your luxurious 4 bedroom condo. Impeccably furnished and ready to go. Be sure to come and see this one as soon as you can. It won't last long.
If you are looking for a great 2 bedroom at the Sea, this is the perfect opportunity for you. This is a fantastic condo and here is your chance to buy it. Be the proud owner of this beachfront beauty. Call or stop by one of our sales offices today for more details.
Call Today: 602-476-7511
We are Rocky Point's only exclusive and dedicated team who have always, and will always, sell Sonoran Resorts and ONLY
Sonoran Resorts!
If you are looking for a team of real professionals who specialize in Puerto Penasco's best family of "True Beachfront" resorts, you've found us, and we are here to serve you.
Whether Buying or Selling, no one can serve you better when it comes to the Sonoran Resorts. We have been here since the beginning, and we will be here for you when you need us.
We don't just sell the Sonoran Resorts, we ARE the Sonoran Resorts. We work directly with the Developers, the HOAs, and the Rental companies. We really can help you in ways that no one else can.
Great Terms!
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